Primary Years Program

Our Approach to Learning

At Highland Park Elementary IB World School, we structure our teaching and learning around six transdisciplinary themes that integrate subject areas, the Minnesota State Standards, and the St. Paul Schools scope and sequence. These themes—Who We Are, Where We Are in Place and Time, How We Express Ourselves, How the World Works, How We Organize Ourselves, and Sharing the Planet—provide a global framework for inquiry-based learning.

Inquiry-Based Learning

Our curriculum is designed to explore big ideas and global concepts through units of inquiry. Students actively acquire knowledge by asking questions, observing, investigating, and conducting research. This inquiry-driven approach ensures that learning is dynamic and tailored to students’ interests, background knowledge, and evolving questions.

The IB Learner Profile

The PYP program aims to develop internationally-minded learners who embody the following attributes of the IB Learner Profile:

• Inquirers: Curious and enthusiastic about learning.
• Knowledgeable: Deep understanding across a range of disciplines.
• Thinkers: Critical and creative problem solvers.
• Communicators: Confidently express ideas in multiple ways.
• Principled: Honest, fair, and responsible.
• Open-Minded: Respectful of diverse perspectives.
• Caring: Empathetic and compassionate.
• Risk-Takers: Courageous in exploring new ideas.
• Balanced: Maintain intellectual, physical, and emotional well-being.
• Reflective: Thoughtfully assess strengths and areas for growth.

These attributes are at the heart of our program. They are explicitly taught, practiced, and celebrated throughout the school year.

Student Agency and Action

At Highland Park Elementary, students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning. Teachers guide students in organizing their inquiries using key concepts, making each unit unique to the learners’ interests. Beyond classroom learning, we emphasize action as a way for students to demonstrate their understanding. Actions can range from small gestures, such as bringing relevant items from home, to larger initiatives like raising awareness or organizing fundraisers for meaningful causes.Examples of student-led actions include:

• Sharing personal interests or hobbies with peers.
• Creating posters or bulletin boards to raise awareness about topics.
• Researching intriguing questions and presenting findings to others.
• Connecting with local or global causes to make a difference.

A Snapshot of Learning in Action

Our kindergartners recently explored the unit of inquiry on systems that consist of patterns and cycles. They focused on patterns in our galaxy and the solar system. Through this unit:

• Students learned about Earth’s cycles with the Moon and Sun.
• Writing activities centered on planet research.
• Art projects included creating constellations and 3D space collages.
• Math lessons emphasized patterning concepts.
• Field trips connected learning to real-world experiences, such as visiting an omnitheater for a space-themed presentation or exploring the St. Paul Schools’ Planetarium.

This interdisciplinary approach ensures that learning is engaging, relevant, and meaningful.

Traditions and Innovation

Highland Park Elementary celebrates both grade-level traditions and innovative approaches to learning. For example:

• Second graders annually create edible landfills as part of their environmental studies.
• Families enjoy sharing new knowledge while reminiscing about past activities their children experienced.

These traditions foster a sense of community while allowing for fresh discoveries each year.

A Legacy of Engaging Education

Highland Park Elementary IB World School has a proud history of immersing students in engaging, relevant learning experiences. Through collaboration, inquiry, critical thinking, and action-oriented projects, we empower students to become lifelong learners who contribute positively to their communities and beyond.