Join the Morgantown BNI Innovation chapter on Monday, December 18, 2023, for an insightful presentation by Ashley Matheny from Whole Child Learning Academy. This enriching "breakfast-and-learn" session starts at 8:30 a.m. and concludes by 9:45 a.m.
Whole Child Learning Academy revolutionizes education by focusing on each child's unique needs. Its innovative approach offers bespoke solutions to the challenges posed by traditional educational systems.
School-related stress is a significant issue in today's educational landscape. A study of anxiety in school-aged children saw a rise of over 55% in diagnosis rates between 2003 and 2012. A similar study showed a further increase of 25% between 2016 and 2019. By 2020, 5.6 million kids were diagnosed with anxiety and another 2.4 million with depression. Plus, a study of high school students conducted two years after the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic revealed that 47% of females and 21% of males reported moderate or severe anxiety. These statistics highlight the need for a learning environment that reduces the stress and anxiety associated with traditional schooling.
Whole Child Learning Academy offers just that through its online learning platform. "I do online learning from the comfort of people's homes," says Ashley Matheny, emphasizing the flexibility and reduced stress that come with this approach. This method not only alleviates the morning rush for families but also fosters a calm and nurturing learning atmosphere, crucial for the overall well-being of both students and parents.
The negative impact of large class sizes on learning cannot be overstated. Research has shown that reducing class sizes can lead to substantial improvements in student achievement, equivalent to three additional months of schooling. Smaller classes have also been found to have positive effects on reading and mathematics proficiency in elementary grades. This evidence points to the need for educational environments that can provide more focused and personalized attention to each student.
Whole Child Learning Academy meets this need head-on. "I keep class sizes small, so I'm able to constantly assess their progress and scaffold whatever I'm teaching to meet their needs," Matheny explains. This approach allows for a more tailored and effective educational experience, where each child’s academic and emotional needs are met, laying the foundation for lifelong learning and success.
The importance of building confidence in children is critical for their overall development. Positive self-esteem is linked to resilience, a growth mindset, and the capacity to embrace new challenges. However, struggles in school can lead to low self-esteem and a lack of motivation, underscoring the need for an educational approach that nurtures confidence and self-belief.
Whole Child Learning Academy champions this cause. "We have a low-pressure setting where they know that whatever their input is, it's going to be valued and respected," states Matheny. This empowering environment encourages children to feel confident and capable, fostering a sense of self-worth and enabling them to navigate life’s challenges with assurance and resilience.
Ashley Matheny’s upcoming presentation will showcase the unique strategies and success stories of Whole Child Learning Academy. This event is a must-attend for parents, educators, and anyone interested in innovative educational solutions.
Register for the BNI Innovation chapter meeting on December 18, 2023, at https://innovationbni.com/visit and select December 18 as your visit date. Discover the individualized, nurturing approach of Whole Child Learning Academy, where education is tailored to unlock every child's full potential.