"Joining RBCS as a founding 4K teacher presented the potential for me to move my early childhood education background into the professional environment of a school. The Expeditionary Learning model allows me to reinforce the following principles, which I believe are essential for successful classroom teaching:

• establishing group norms and clear expectations
• having a solid understanding of child development
• knowing the children and their families individually, socially and culturally
• integrating academic and social curriculums
• consistently enacting logical consequences for behaviors
• enabling students to make choices in their learning
• thoughtful classroom organization
• involving students' families as partners in the educational process

My six years at Byers have enabled me to deepen my practice while continuing to create a positive, powerful learning environment for young children and their families."

— Ruth Schneeberg, founding 4K teacher

"I teach at Russell Byers because of the Expeditionary Learning (EL) approach to teaching and culture. After graduating with my Masters in Curriculum and Instruction, I found EL encompasses all of the best practices of teaching that I learned in graduate school. Russell Byers supports the teachers and continuously educates us on how to best put these practices into action. Along with the EL approach, the school is committed to keeping class sizes at low levels. This is critical for making Expeditionary Learning successful and ideal for teachers to give each student the necessary individual attention that will help them each reach their fullest potential."

— Holly Chapman, 3^rd grade teacher

"Last summer, as I entertained various job offers, I could not get Russell Byers Charter School out of my mind. The aesthetic appeal of the school made it extremely desirable, but it was going to take much more than a new facility in a beautiful part of Philadelphia to solidify my choice for employment. The strong leadership team and their commitment to an EL structured learning environment set Russell Byers apart. I could never imagine myself working in a school which only employed traditional teaching practices (teachers standing and lecturing, and children sitting and passively receiving information). Expeditionary Learning brings subject matter to life, makes learning meaningful, and encourages students to take an active role in their education. I can't fathom being in a school that does not foster these ideals. Russell Byers was the only school I found that matched my own philosophy of teaching. I cannot express in words how thankful I am to be here working with such a dedicated principal, a nurturing staff, and a great group of kids."

— Geno Aloi, Special Education Teacher