K-12 Philosophy and Beliefs

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GIPS K-12 Social Studies Program
Philosophy

Grand Island Public Schools will prepare students to become responsible and productive citizens in a democratic society and a globally interdependent world. Through an integrated study of social studies disciplines, students will acquire necessary knowledge, skills, and attitudes as they become lifelong learners.

Social Studies provides content that students will use to understand political, social, and economic issue and apply their knowledge and skills to make effective personal and public decisions. A standards-based social studies curriculum builds knowledge of specific discipline content, thinking skills, commitment to democratic values, and citizen participation, all essential to maintaining a democratic way of life.

 

GIPS K-12 Social Studies Program
Beliefs

• All students learn through a variety of relevant experiences.
Therefore, we will provide interactions that activate and build on prior knowledge and promote higher level thinking skills.

• Research shows active learning is essential.
Therefore, we will provide students with a variety of active, student-centered, multisensory learning opportunities.

• Instruction should be relevant, meaningful, and based on student needs.
Therefore, we will provide opportunities for students to make connections to their own lives using a variety of instructional strategies.

• The world is constantly changing.
Therefore, we will provide the opportunities for students to understand that the present connects to the past and affects the future.

• We live in a culturally diverse society.
Therefore, we will develop student understanding of diverse cultures that honors equality and human dignity.

• Assessment should be ongoing, diagnostic, and aligned with instruction.
Therefore, we will provide multiple authentic assessment tools.

• The use of community resources is essential for effective instruction.
Therefore, we will use the rich history and ethnic diversity of our community to enhance learning.

• Active and informed citizen participation is essential to democracy.
Therefore, we will provide instruction and curriculum designed to develop students who will be informed, active problem solvers, and willing participants in the democratic process.