Wickliffe Progressive Elementary School was honored to host the National Institute of Progressive Education Network (NIPEN) April 28th-30th. NIPEN offers a cohort of ~25 progressive educators the opportunity to share ideas and experiences about progressive education while visiting two progressive schools each year. Visiting different types of progressive learning environments gives educators new ideas and perspective that can enhance their own teaching approach. A number of Wickliffe teachers (with support from your PTO donations) have attended NIPEN and presented at the annual conference of the Progressive Education Network (PEN) in the past, and Wickliffe Principal Chris Collaros is currently on the PEN Board of Directors.
As Wickliffe is one of the few progressive schools in the country that is part of a public school district, it provided a unique perspective of great interest to the NIPEN participants. During the three day institute, participants toured the school, observed classes, met to discuss a variety of topics, and participated in a panel discussion over lunch with some Wickliffe parents. During the institute, NIPEN leaders also offered a Progressive Education 101 class that was attended by 30 parents and district administrators interested in learning more about the history and principles of progressive education.
Kudos to the Wickliffe Building Team, teachers, students, and PTO volunteers who worked to provide a wonderful experience for our visitors. This included some new décor, lots of great documentation of the work going on in Wickliffe classrooms, and Wickliffe swag bags. Wickliffe looks great, and the NIPEN participants were very impressed with all the great things going on at Wickliffe. Thanks to everyone who made this possible. It was a real testament to the Wickliffe community.
