Brit’s Academy, which opened on September 2, 2019, is an on site school for all 66 of our children. Each grade level has a teacher and an assistant supervised by two teacher/co-principals. The Academy emphasizes an active learning, hands-on teaching methodology, which defies the standard rote-memorization style of most schools in Haiti.
Teachers consistently receive training in each component to enhance teaching and learning! The Agile Mindset, which includes the principles of empathy, problem-solving, social/emotional intelligence, entrepreneurial mindset, and adapting to change is threaded throughout the curriculum. After a brief opening ceremony each morning, children are in their classrooms from 8:15 a.m.- 3:15 p.m. which includes a one hour lunch/recess break.
English, math, physical science, social science, global citizenship, French and Creole communication, and literacy (library reading, oral presentations, and reports, writing) are all taught each day. Special classes are held each week including health education, music, art, physical education, sewing, and technology.
On weekends, children are involved in dance and gymnastic classes which are very popular. We also offer various trade classes, such as mechanics, cooking, and woodworking. In addition, a Chess Club has been started and hosts several chess tournaments to promote critical thinking. A few times each week, we also host worship services and sports tournaments such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball with co-ed groups for all ages. As a capstone for the week, each Friday evening we have a Variety Show where children are invited to participate and showcase their many talents like hosting the event, singing, dance, acrobatics, comedy, and poetry.
Children have been learning and incorporating business concepts and skills including:
- Financial literacy and business acumen
- Project planning and development
- Global news exposure and current events
- Customer service skills (includes public relations, practicing English, showing respect and welcome)
- Management skills (organization, time management, inventory, need assessment, performance of duties in the gift shop)
- Social and emotional intelligence
- Increase in self-esteem and self-confidence
- Development of an entrepreneurial mindset
- Creative and divergent thinking
- Team building
Teacher and caregiver training is at the heart of Brit’s Home. Trainings are provided by the Program Director and Superintendent of Schools on a monthly basis. Topics include child/adolescent development; developing positive social relationships and friendships; assessment and evaluation; learning styles, active learning, developing and maintaining an Agile Mindset, classroom management, and effective behavior management.
In order to be truly and fully aligned with the mission, vision, and guiding principles of Brit’s Home we conduct a full history and psychological assessment to ensure the most suitable learning environment. This evaluation process will serve to foster the children’s academic success, love of learning, and emotional/social intelligence.
Debbie Pallatto-Fontaine, Ph.D. has worked to develop the curriculum and training while establishing Brit’s Academy as an on site learning base. Debbie has a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Connecticut; Sixth Year in Counseling Psychology, University of Connecticut, M.Div.- Hartford Seminary – She was a professor at Becker College for 22 years and is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ (UCC). Now, Debbie serves as our Superintendent of Brit’s Academy and is an esteemed member of our Board of Directors.
To learn more about Brit's Academy, check out the chronicle of the year by Clicking Here
For more information or to help support Brit’s Academy contact Cherylann at Cherylann@BeLikeBrit.org
GET IN TOUCH
(508) 886-4500OPERATIONS CENTER
66 Pullman Street, Worcester, MA, 01606
Brit's Home
33 Brit's Way, Grand Goave, Haiti
