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Satori’s Seven Principles

The Satori Way is a comprehensive approach to engaging children in authentic learning experiences that prepare them as lifelong learners to be successful in the real world. Our approach is based on years of hands-on experience with children, families and staff as well as a research-based foundation in philosophical and theoretical educational models.

How do we translate theory into instructional practice?

Satori has identified 7 Principles of Instruction which reflect our core beliefs and values about education. We empower teachers as lifelong learners to describe their individual teaching practices according to these principles, by reviewing them periodically and formally articulating, in the 7 Principles of Instruction Map, how they employ these principles in the classroom, strength areas and goal-setting areas. This is a collaborative process, involving faculty and administration and is also used as a professional evaluation tool.

The 7 Principles of Instruction are identified by priority:

  1. Community-Building
  2. Social-Emotional Intelligence
  3. Individualization/Differentiation
  4. Cooperative Learning
  5. Self-Directed Learning
  6. Higher-Order Thinking
  7. Integration

The Essential Teacher Behaviors that promote a Satori learning environment are:

  • Whole group instruction
  • Small group instruction
  • Individualized instruction
  • Creating and maintaining a sustainable learning environment (bodybrain-compatible learning environment: absence of threat/nurturing reflective thinking, meaningful content, movement, adequate time, choices, enriched environment, collaboration, immediate feedback, application and mastery of learning, ITI Brain Research From Theory to Practice, Susan Kovalik, 2001)
  • Circulating around and throughout the learning environment
  • Redirecting students
  • Re-teaching
  • Extending skills and concepts (i.e. depth and detail)
  • Making observations (i.e. anecdotal notes, charting, record-keeping)
  • Participating in learning experiences
  • Modeling learning experiences, skills and concepts
  • Effective and diverse teaching materials/resources
  • Effective use of teaching aides/volunteers
  • Effective use of community experts, programs and resources
  • Field trips and service projects
  • Effective and consistent communication tools to ensure the home-school partnership (i.e., newsletters, email, conferences, volunteer opportunities)

Personal Accountability

A program that establishes a cohesive problem-solving approach helps students take personal responsibility in both academic strategies and social interactions. Satori Charter School gives students the opportunities to:

  • listen and speak respectfully
  • define problems
  • brainstorm possibilities
  • evaluate solutions
  • implement plans

Student Outcome and Goals

Satori students will demonstrate a sense of self by:

  • Using Self-Directed Learning Skills
  • developing Interpersonal and Intrapersonal intelligence skills
  • developing and nurturing their natural Love of Learning