How we see The Element High School
Element grew out of a primary program at OMS Montessori, building into the intermediate grades and, ultimately, through the high school grades. In 2012, The Element became distinct unto its own, offering a consistent program from grades 7 to 12. Then, in 2015, it moved into its own space, becoming physically distinct as well. Nevertheless, the foundational principle remains across all grades, providing learning that is self-referential and student directed. The ideal student is one who thrives within a very hands-on environment, who is guided by their curiosity, and is able to make the most a greater range of academic independence.
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How The Element High School sees itself
"The Element is an innovative high school, which places youth in their ‘element’, in school and beyond. Located in the dynamic Lansdowne Park area, The Element hosts Grade 7 to 12 students who thrive on being challenged and engaged in the whole educational process. Although the curriculum is based on Montessori pedagogy, a previous Montessori education is not required; a passion for life, knowledge and global inquiry is!"
"Students begin their Element journey with The Odyssey Trip in e1 with the Indigenous peoples of the Moose River, and move into weekly community connections through AWOL experiences (Authentic World of Learning) in e2 and e3. The e2 students plan, fundraise and execute an Urban Adventure Trip while the e3 students plan and fundraise for an international community service trip to a community in Costa Rica."
"At The Element we ensure that our students are prepared for life. Our small class sizes, dedicated and passionate teachers and unique curriculum delivery enable us to ensure our students have a strong academic background. Additionally, through both direct lessons and individual advisory meetings we put an emphasis on helping our students to understand themselves as learners so they have the tools and strategies to be effective and efficient students."
"The role of the teacher at The Element goes beyond the traditional providing an environment where the student goes beyond the Ontario Curriculum. Additionally, our teachers serve as mentors to our students through their advisory roles, individually supporting and guiding our students through their journey at The Element. Ultimately our students develop a strong sense of self, the skills they need for success and a curiosity about the world."
"The Montessori concepts of freedom and choice are powerful tools that empower and engage our students. With clear expectations on the outcomes required, students are provided with the opportunity to choose how they are going to meet the outcomes and as the work is personally relevant they often exceed expectations and make associations and connections beyond the assignment requirements. Students are given freedom within specific frameworks and guidelines and held accountable to outcomes."
The Element has easy access to the basketball courts/ice skating rink at Lansdowne Park, as well as the skateboard park, open green spaces and local ball diamonds.
Students take advantage of their surroundings and hold the majority of their gym classes on the Great Lawn in Lansdowne Park
The Art/Design Studio
The Element High School is located in Lansdowne Park where students are close to many businesses, community centres, and athletic facilities.
One of many breakout rooms that allow students to either work independently or in small groups and are equipped with monitors that allow student to display their work via ChromeCast.
A typical open space used for large group lessons and teacher instruction.
The music breakout room equipped with a keyboard, guitars, and drums.
The Science Lab is well equipped to conduct various experiments, and is flexible to adjust to student interest.
The Science Lab is well equipped to conduct various experiments, and is flexible to adjust to student interest.
The Element High School has a small commercial kitchen where students prepare meals for their classmates
Students have access to Google Chromebook and can project their screen to a large screen using Chromecast. This enables students to work efficiently for group projects.
You will find a few lounge areas around The Element facility, where students are welcome to work individually or in a small group, take a break, or socialize before and after school.
This flex space is commonly used for group study, independent work, and group lessons.
The Element is equipped with a commercial kitchen where students prepare meals for their classmates 3 times a week. This includes recipe sourcing, meal planning, cooking, and clean up.
How people from the school’s community see The Element High School
Top-down influence on the school’s direction and tone
Sarah Wheeler, School Director
On behalf of the The Element community, thank you for visiting our profile. As School Director, I have the privilege of working with a proficient team of parents, alumni, faculty and staff who are dedicated to offering their best to each of our students. We work tirelessly to realize our mission by delivering an educational experience designed to inspire and challenge students to discover the best of who they are, while year after year reaching to achieve their full potential.
As a parent, you recognize that choosing a school for your child is one of the most significant decisions you will make. We need specific criteria by which to choose the ideal educational approach for our children. It is clear that the school years help to form the core foundation of our approach to learning and problem-solving, as well as who we are as contributing, global citizens. We at The Element are here to support you.
At The Element, we provide our students with an educational foundation from which they can achieve personal and academic goals, while building independence, self-confidence and self-esteem. The unique Montessori methodology, with its student-centered approach, encourages the development of personal responsibility and thinking skills, as well as fostering a love of learning. Each student is guided in the exploration of his or her own learning style and the development of work habits most suited to individual interests and needs.
Please browse our website and discover how we work together with Element parents to empower students to become self-regulated, engaged and lifelong learners. As trained experts in education, we understand that observation is an essential component in the decision making process. As such, we would like to invite you to visit us for a tour of our spacious and peaceful learning environment. This is the most personal way to see what The Element has to offer your student and family.
The Element, an extension of OMS Montessori, is a not-for-profit school. For over 50 years, OMS Montessori has offered exceptional education to families in the city of Ottawa. We are thrilled to now offer our programming through high school. We welcome you to call and chat with our friendly staff (613-862-8578) or email ([email protected]) regarding your student’s education. Share with us how we can partner with you and your family to further explore Montessori education and philosophy.
It is with great anticipation that we embark on the next 50 years at The Element. Please join us on this journey of promise and excitement.
THE OUR KIDS REPORT: The Element High School
Next steps to continue your research:
Continue researching The Element High School with OurKids.net, or visit school website.
