Engage

with mentors

Seeing Art in Teaching

A sixth grader examines the dwarf jade plant at the center of a science lab table, and carefully prunes the branch that’s out of place. The bonsai, which she’s helped nurture for months, suddenly reveals its true form—and its true purpose: immersing the class not only in the delicate science of caring for these trees, but also in the history and aesthetic principles that underlie an ancient Japanese tradition. Knowledge born in the science lab, in turn, reveals new dimensions in the art studios, where they complete sculptural and watercolor studies of their plants. Such expansive teaching is a hallmark among Shore’s faculty, many of whom possess their Masters or Doctorate of Education. Advanced degrees are just one reflection of the profound commitment to children shared by all our teachers; so are Shore’s comprehensive model for teacher and curricular evaluation, and the generous funding available for professional development.