Submitted by Critical Thinking School

Critical Thinking School is inviting everyone to visit our kids’ Science Fair at Island’s Community Church this Saturday, June 3, from 10 a.m. to noon; lunch and root beer floats will follow. “This is a chance for anyone who’s interested in our school to come and check out what we’ve got going on,” said Diana Porter, teacher and CTS board president. “The kids have worked hard in their presentations, and we’d like to have interested spectators come and enjoy their efforts.”

Through its first year of operation, Critical Thinking School provided structured learning in math, science, and reading to 12 elementary children, often with their preschool siblings exploring in the wings. Classes were held every Wednesday, which offered kids and parents a mid-week break from the regular homeschool routine.

Field trips were held on Fridays, which involved mostly on-island exploration, including visits to Wolf Hollow, Aurora Farms, and a boat trip to Turn Island. “The parents did most of the field trip planning, but CTS paid any expenses,” said Porter.

“We’ve got a really great group of kids. They all get along and really enjoy the day of learning at the school,” Said Porter, who has taught children for 30 years. “I’m amazed at how fast they moved through their workbooks; even the kindergartener and first-grader rolled right through it; they loved it!”

Next year, CTS plans on increasing the scope of the school to include middle school kids, an older set of kids in elementary (if enrollment indicates the need), and also preschool. “The middle school kids would meet twice a week, to cover the greater educational needs for kids that age,” said Porter. “And the preschool would take care of the younger siblings when the older kids are in class.” The preschool would be only for siblings of the students enrolled in the school.

CTS works to provide a schooling option for parents who wish to direct their children’s education to match their values, offering structured learning opportunities focused on critical thinking, practical life skills, freedom of personal choice, and educational sensibility. CTS is dedicated to providing inclusion and support to working parents, with attention and consideration towards financial, logistical, and administrative support through the homeschool experience.

For more information please visit www.ctsfh.com.