EDS is a research-based award winning elementary school that offers an alternative to the traditional neighborhood schools by focusing on the partnerships between staff, teachers and parents.  Unique features of the program at EDS include multi-age classrooms (K-1) and the ability of a student to stay with one teacher for two consecutive years.(K-5) The curriculum at each grade level is hands-on, meaningful and thematic.  Children are actively involved in their own learning and are provided with daily opportunities to solve problems and use high level thinking skills. 

    The staff at EDS believes that every child should be provided with a safe and nurturing environment in which to grow and learn. Instruction is development-based and differentiated to ensure measurable academic gains by each student.   Focus is on small group instruction, hands on learning, broad comprehensive themes, differentiated instruction and the latest findings in brain research.  Instruction is designed so that children capitalize on their strengths while receiving support in areas that are more difficult for them.  Equal emphasis is placed on the learning process and a quality work.   We believe that in learning, the journey is as important as the destination.

    Our vision is for 100% of the parents at EDS to actively participate in their child’s education and in our school community.  Research shows that the partnership between school and family is a strong indicator of student success.   At EDS, this partnership allows for small group instruction in every classroom setting.  Under the direction of the teacher, parents work with small groups or one-on-one to ensure that all students get the support they need to reach their full potential.  In addition, parents receive training that is valuable in working with children in the classroom and with their children at home. Parents also bring unique talents and skills to our classroom.  Core curriculum is enhanced when parents support weekly activities such as cooking gardening, art, and service learning projects.

     I am so proud of the partnerships we have created between students, staff, and families, and feel privileged every day to be a part of such a caring, innovative school community!

Sherri Vasquez

Principal