Grauer School 6th Grade Student Exemplifies Impact of Small Schools Movement

RANCHO SANTA FE, CA, March 02, 2013 (Press-News.org) Alexandra Parker is a 6th grade student that represents the qualities inspired by the nationally growing small-schools educational model. Alexandra's outstanding accomplishments epitomize the potential that the Grauer School in Encinitas is renowned for cultivating and that results in an increasing record number of unsolicited merit scholarships offered to Grauer graduates annually. Encompassing the core of the small schools movement (personalized, all-inclusive, self-goverened schools serving no more than 350 students), the successful technique has motivated Alexandra to excell in academics as well as extra-curricular activies. A pivital point in attaining a Grauer School diploma, 6th grade enrollment provides adequate time to develop the qualities that most all colleges and universities attribute to scholarship eligibility. Currently, a limited number of 6th grade enrollment opportunities are available to students who academically qualify, and scholarships are available. Applications may be downloaded at http://www.grauerschool.com/admissions/application-forms/.

Alexandra explains, "The small school environment has made me realize that the teachers and Head of School really care about my education in very specific terms. This is my first year at Grauer School and I'm very impressed. I've learned that the core values established by the school make an impact on my educational outlook, particularly, intellectual curiosity, accountability and self-advocacy. These values make me realize how important it is to be conscientious in school as well as outside school---this is preparing me to be a model adult. I have also learned to enjoy the gift of gaining more knowledge in an intimate setting. Not just because it's interesting, but also because it empowers me to ask questions and grasp a comprehensive understanding of things I'm being taught. Plus the fact that I'm continually encouraged to have a deeper meaning of every subject---it's taught me to love to learn. "

According to her Math and Science Teacher, Chelsea Arrighi, "Alexandra is a leader. She researches topics, relates National Geographic stories to concepts and is motivated not only to understand the material but also relate it to life, earth and the world. Her strong sense of morality always guides her to do the right thing, even if it appears to be an obstacle, making her a better leader than any one of her peers. I like to take the opportunity to draw this out of her whenever possible." Her History teacher, Kate Napier, acknowledges, "She is intellectually curious and motivated, and her work shows it; she performs well by herself but also embraces the opportunity to work with other students in an intimate classroom environment. She has demonstrated that having direct access to teachers in a small classroom allows her the ability to speak frequently and often, about challenges to each and every lesson. Her attention to detail is unsurpassed."

Alexandra is an active member of Kids Korps, the non-profit organization that advances philanthropic projects through hands-on student involvement and she most recently registered to engage in a doll-making program for underprivileged children who live in developing countries. She is enrolled in after-school classes at a local dance academy where she studies ballet, jazz and hip-hop and has been invited to join a dance competition club. She is involved in theater and music classes (particularly voice) at Grauer, and she aspires to join the new Grauer School Archery Team, scheduled to launch in 2014. Ms. Parker ultimately hopes to specialize in genetics through higher learning with an emphasis on cancer research science, perhaps at Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Founded in 1991, The Grauer School is an independent, non-profit middle and high school (grades 6-12) accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), a member of the California Association of Independent Schools (CAIS) and is the only school in the region to be honored as a designated UNESCO school. The school serves as an inspirational educational model that balances expeditionary learning, humanitarian service and college preparation for hundreds of private schools around the world through the Coalition of Small Preparatory Schools (CSPS) established by Founding Head, Dr. Stuart Grauer. To learn more about The Grauer School experience now in its 22nd year, visit http://www.grauerschool.com or call (760) 944-6777.