By Brett Otterson
This is my third year in the Mini-School program. Over that time, I have come to know the program quite well. I have found the program to be full of friendship, participation, and most important, communication.
In comparing the Mini-School program to regular school, I prefer Mini-School. I feel it offers a better learning experience in the manner of group participation and communication. Its trips program, for example, has got to be the best area of learning in the program. A canoe trip can teach you of life, survival, and history of our ancestors who lived the same way 200 years before. It builds mental and physical character beyond compare, for you are out challenging yourself with Mother Nature.
The student/teacher relationship has always amazed me. I feel this is an important part of the program. It is a person to person relationship, and this freedom allows for better communication for learning between student and teacher.
The program has social incentive in the way of various fundraisers for the program. For example, we have our own plant shop… The public is welcome to purchase various potted plants and terrariums. The proceeds go to the program.
I feel the all around communication and understanding of every student and teacher in Mini-School is the best learning opportunity for anyone.