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:
Community-Building
Social-Emotional Intelligence
Individualization/Differentiation
Cooperative Learning
Self-Directed Learning
Higher-Order Thinking
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
Satori Approach to Learning
At Satori School, learning is built around curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, and community. Explore how Satori’s student-centered approach encourages children to think independently, take intellectual risks, solve problems, and grow through meaningful, hands-on learning experiences.