Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Polk schools weigh 'Wonder Here' project‑based pilot at Philip O'Brien Elementary
Summary
Presenters from Wonder Here asked Polk County School Board to pilot a project‑based learning program at Philip O'Brien Elementary, proposing two K‑1 pilot classrooms and offering tiered support packages: $75,000 for licensing/training and $50,000 for a full‑time on‑site director. Board members asked about enrollment priority for zoned students, turnaround metrics, and long‑term costs.
Tiffany Thonoor and a colleague presented Wonder Here to the Polk County School Board on Nov. 18, proposing a pilot to bring their decade‑old project‑based learning model into Philip O'Brien Elementary.
The presenters described Wonder Here as a design that combines elements of Montessori, Reggio Emilia and Finnish approaches, centered on long work cycles, student choice and project time. They said their model uses individualized learning plans, benchmark checklists and portfolio showcases rather than letter grades. ‘‘When school is experienced through hands on curiosity driven education, real and lasting learning will finally…
Already have an account? Log in
Subscribe to keep reading
Unlock the rest of this article — and every article on Citizen Portal.
- Unlimited articles
- AI-powered breakdowns of topics, speakers, decisions, and budgets
- Instant alerts when your location has a new meeting
- Follow topics and more locations
- 1,000 AI Insights / month, plus AI Chat
