Building Lifelong Learners at BCHS
At Burke County High School, we believe in inspiring a love of learning that lasts a lifetime. Our goal is to empower students to take charge of their education and prepare them for success in college, careers, and beyond.
Our Learning Philosophy
We are proud to be a Visible Learning Associate School, where reflection and collaboration drive everything we do. Our teachers continuously improve their skills through professional development, using the latest research-based strategies to help students succeed.
Empowering Students to Take Ownership
This year, we are focused on helping students become active participants in their learning journey. By encouraging self-reflection, we aim to build confidence and independence.
Last year, we taught students how to answer three key questions:
Now, we’re taking it a step further by asking students to regularly reflect on:
This process helps students develop self-awareness and take responsibility for their growth.
Visible Learning: A Proven Framework
We use the Visible Learning framework, created by education researcher John Hattie, to ensure our teaching strategies make a real difference. This approach focuses on:
- Clear learning goals: Students understand what they’re working toward.
- Effective feedback: Students receive guidance on how to improve.
- Assessment-capable learners: Students learn to track their own progress and set goals for improvement.
By implementing these strategies, we create an environment where students feel supported and motivated to succeed.
The GROWL Within: Our Core Values
At Burke County High School, our values guide everything we do. We call them our GROWL dispositions:
- G - Goal-Oriented: We set clear goals and work hard to achieve them.
- R - Resourceful: We find creative solutions and use tools effectively.
- O - Open-Minded: We embrace new ideas and perspectives.
- W - Willing to Collaborate: We value teamwork and diverse viewpoints.
- L - Lifelong Learners: We stay curious and strive for continuous growth.
The Learning Pit: Turning Challenges into Growth
We use the “learning pit” as a way to help students understand that challenges are part of learning:
- Starting Point: We begin at the top, feeling confident about what we know.
- Descent: As we tackle new ideas, we might slide into confusion or frustration.
- Bottom of the Pit: Here, we grapple with tough concepts. It's challenging, but this struggle is where real learning happens.
- Climbing Out: By asking questions, exploring, and putting in effort, we start to make sense of things.
- Reaching the Top: We emerge with new understanding and skills, stronger for having gone through the pit.
The goal isn't to avoid the pit, but to learn how to navigate it. By embracing the Learning Pit, we become lifelong learners who view challenges as chances for growth. The climb might be tough, but the view from the top makes it all worthwhile!
Partnering with Our Community: Our Promise
At Burke County High School, we’re not just teaching subjects—we’re preparing students for college, careers, and life. By helping them become independent, resilient learners, we ensure they can adapt and thrive in a changing world.
We know that education is a team effort, and partnering with families and the community is essential to creating a supportive environment where all students can succeed. Explore our website to learn more about our programs, curriculum, and upcoming events. Together, we can shape the future of our students and empower them to achieve greatness.
Together, we are #BearBuilt!
Join us in empowering the next generation of thinkers and doers!
