Symbiosis Learning Center is an alternative to traditional middle and high school for students who prefer a mindful, nurturing, and noncompetitive environment to learn, socialize, and grow. We welcome and highly value a diverse student body that includes homeschoolers; those who have diverse learning styles and needs; and those who may have social and/or emotional challenges, anxiety, and/or ADHD. Our mission is to create a school that is tailored to the unique needs of each and every student.
We also offer college support and tutoring for students with executive functioning challenges and who may benefit from one-on-one support with a learning specialist. Please see more information about our college support program here: https://symbiosislearningcenter.com/services/
Now Enrolling Academic Year 2022-23
Part and Full-Time Options
Symbiosis Learning Center’s Progressive Education Program is an alternative to traditional middle and high school. Students who may not thrive within the traditional model can learn in an environment that is shaped by their learning style, pace, and needs. By redefining the concept of ‘school,’ Symbiosis Learning Center’s mission is to create a space that is holistic, nurturing, and noncompetitive. Students who complete their high school requirements earn a diploma and are guided through the college application and transition process.
Course offerings include Math, Science, English Language Arts, 3D Design & Printing, Chess, History, Spanish, Music, Social Thinking, Financial Literacy, as well as dual enrollment options at MassBay Community College and Lasell University.
Other activities include Cooking & Nutrition, Ceramics, Yoga, Dungeons and Dragons, Field Trips, Community Service Opportunities, Life Skills, Financial Literacy, Therapy Dog Visits, and much more!
Enrollment is open and ongoing throughout the year.
Fee is pro-rated based on day of enrollment. Prospective students are welcome to visit for a week before enrolling (fee will only be required if student enrolls.)
Options for Academic Year Enrollment:
Part-Time (2 days per week, MW/TTH) Full-Time (4 days per week , M-TH)
Fridays are “free days” reserved for field trips, guest speakers, college admissions counselors, therapy dog visits, family visiting day, pizza, music, and more! The Center will be closed some Fridays.
We also offer flexible hours for students who wish to come for non-academic classes, events, field trips, and/or socialization. Please contact us to discuss how we can accommodate your need.
Open: Monday-Friday 9am-4pm (closed some Fridays)
Location: 64 Hancock Street, Auburndale, MA 02466
Our curriculum focuses on the following:
Emphasis on learning by doing – hands-on projects, expeditionary learning, experiential learning
Integrated curriculum focused on thematic units
Strong emphasis on creativity, problem solving, and critical thinking
Group work and development of social skills
Understanding as the goals of learning, as opposed to rote knowledge
Collaborative and cooperative learning projects
Education for social justice, responsibility, and democracy
Highly personalized learning accounting for each individual’s personal goals
Integration of community service and service learning projects
Offering content that is focused on skills needed in future society
Use of varied learning resources
Emphasis on developing a desire for lifelong learning
Collaborative assessment of coursework and projects
Creating a non-competitive, safe, supportive, and nurturing learning environment
Developing one’s life path through a mindfulness based approach
Supporting the development of productivity; freedom of choice; independence; individuality; empowerment/self-advocacy; accountability; curiosity; self-determined definition of success; self-awareness, self-acceptance, and self-esteem.
Our Students
We highly value diversity in our students and do not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, sexual identity, creed, or family status. The Progressive Education Program is an excellent fit for the following individuals:
Those opting out of traditional school
Homeschool & self-directed learners
Members of the ‘unschooling’ movement
Those looking for a better fit than traditional high school
Those who have diverse learning differences and needs
Those who may have social and/or emotional challenges
Those who may need to complete high school requirements
Those needing assistance creating homeschooling portfolio and documentation for college application
*Symbiosis Learning Center accepts high school homeschooling or other educational courses as transfer credits
What We Offer
Rooted in research and experience, our program is specifically designed to provide our students with a variety of opportunities and essential skills to assist them in achieving their unique academic, social, and emotional goals.
We help students master a rigorous, interdisciplinary college preparatory curriculum while also assisting students in reaching their social and emotional development goals. Our courses focus on the transition from our program in to adult life through collaborative instruction, both in academics and social skills.
Our curriculum includes a variety of courses taught in an engaging, mindful, nurturing, and supportive learning environment. These courses include the arts and sciences, community service and leadership opportunities; as well as regular off-campus field trips ensuring engagement with the world beyond the classroom.
Courses include (but are not limited to):
English Language Arts
Math
Science
Social Studies
Art
Foreign Language
Social skills
Study skills
Music Appreciation
Diversity & Difference
Cooking
Psychology
How to get a job and keep it!
College preparation
Public Speaking
Independent studies (courses created by student with guidance by advisor)
We believe one’s self-worth should not be measured in a grade or score. We hope to engender a sense of achievement and satisfaction that comes from thoughtful work and collaboration, intellectual and personal growth, and the willingness to embrace and overcome academic and life challenges.
Social/emotional support is provided for students with:
Anxiety
Depression
School avoidance/school phobia
Bipolar
Asperger’s
ADHD
OCD disorders
Additional Learning Opportunities
Our curriculum includes a wealth of extracurricular and creative opportunities to explore new passions and discover new talents. These activities extend the experience of learning, encouraging students to develop new skills such as collaboration and leadership, and to inspire their compassion, creativity, and curiosity.
Experiential Learning:
Project-based learning and independent research are integral aspects of the learning process in the Progressive Education Program.
Makerspace
We encourage our students to gain experiences in the world outside of our program and we will assist students with obtaining these experiences!
Internships
Courses at a local college or university
Field Trips:
Salem
Apple picking
Old Sturbridge Village
Hikes
Visit to local businesses
Museums
Rock Climbing
and more!
Progressive Middle and High School 