At Four Rivers, learning built on teamwork

GREENFIELD — Affiliated with the expeditionary learning model, Four Rivers Charter Public School places a focus on experiential, student-centered learning built on teamwork.

Four Rivers was founded in 2003. It serves 220 students in Grades 7 through 12. As part of its foundation based on Expeditionary Learning, Four Rivers focuses on improving student achievement, building student character, enhancing teacher practices and instilling positive school culture.

For Principal Peter Garbus, one of the most important parts of a Four Rivers education is engaged learning in every classroom.

That includes groups of students working to solve problems, asking each other questions and engaging in a whole-class discussion.

The school is guided by four commitments: learning by doing, exploring big questions, building character and community.

“Teachers structure lessons so that teachers talk less and students talk more; the students do the thinking and the work,” Garbus wrote in an email.

That’s an example of active teaching, he said. “Lessons incorporate strategies to build curiosity and have a sense of urgency and purpose,” he said. “During independent work times, teachers actively engage and guide students.”

Chris Lindahl can be reached at clindahl@gazettenet.com