WHO, WHAT, WHY
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WHO WE ARE ​
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Vision: We exist to cultivate connection with self, others, and the world.
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Mission: We provide holistic, bilingual schooling that fosters connection, awareness, and growth.
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Values: We have three core values that guide what we do and how we do it.
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1 | Loving kindness
We treat ourselves, others, and the world with care and consideration.
2 | Resilience
We allow difficult experiences to refine us, strengthen us, and move us forward.
3 | Openness
We listen, consider, and learn from others regardless of differences.
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Philosophy: Canguros philosophy is holistic in nature, focusing on the whole child rather than simply intellectual development. With that, we focus strongly on social-emotional learning (SEL) so that a child can gain greater connection and understanding of themselves. As a child learns SEL skills, such as emotional regulation, they are able to more fully engage in every other aspect of their lives.
The classroom is designed to promote play-based, interest-led learning. We believe children are innately curious, playful, creative, and competent learners.
It is our role as teachers to guide them so they may safely explore and discover themselves, others, and the world around them.
We support expression of self, believing each child is uniquely gifted, while helping to shape their understanding of their actions in a manner that is healthy and not harmful.
We do not use fear, shame or guilt as motivators, instead we provide unconditional love and clear boundaries.
Our teaching style is neither permissive or authoritarian. We recognize that children need trustworthy adults to provide a combination of structure and flexibility. We understand children’s perspectives are often limited as their brains are still developing- it is our role to fill in the gaps, provide explanations as needed, and help build connections so they may grow in awareness and maturity.
Much of what we implement in our classrooms is drawn from the Conscious Discipline model, where safety and connection are the foundation.
For the science behind this method, visit the link below: https://consciousdiscipline.com/methodology/.
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We are Canguros, a licensed children's center located in St. Pete, focused on the well-being and holistic education of children.
WHAT WE DO​
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As a nonprofit preschool and elementary school, we provide holistic, bilingual (Spanish-English) schooling in an environment that fosters connection, awareness, and growth.
Our teacher-to-child ratio is 1:4 so that each child may receive the very best attention and care.
WHY WE DO IT​
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We believe that each child deserves love and the freedom to safely explore independence and interdependence alike. A child with expansive, life-enriching experiences, who feels both secure as an individual and also a part of a greater family, is a child who is more likely to develop a healthy sense of self.
A child with a healthy sense of self thrives in their own skin, valuing others and the world as much as they value themselves- from this place comes growth, maturation, and greater wholeness.
It is our heart to foster awareness of what it means to live holistically where we are connected to ourselves, others, and the world for a greater purpose.
WHY THE NAME CANGUROS?​
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Canguros is Spanish for Kangaroos and carries much significance.
Kangaroos jump but they cannot jump backwards; with every bounce there is a high and a low point, but each bounce is forward moving, progressive.
They are communal, spending their time in groups called mobs. They are strong yet nurturing, taking care of their young until they are ready to care for themselves. They embody the heart of Canguros.
IMPORTANT POLICIES
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Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Policy
Canguros values diversity and is committed to promoting equity and inclusion for all students. We believe that diversity enriches our school community and creates a positive and inclusive learning environment. We are committed to providing equal opportunities for all students regardless of their background or identity, and to create a safe and welcoming environment free from discrimination and harassment. We celebrate diversity in all forms, including culture, ethnicity, religion, gender, and ability.
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Safe Space Policy
Canguros has a safe space policy where we are committed to providing a safe, welcoming, and calm space for all students and staff. We do not tolerate bullying, violence, or discrimination of any kind. We believe that every individual at our school has the right to feel safe in an environment free from bullying, violence, and discrimination.