Our Program

Our School Program

Core Knowledge Sequence

Birch Grove Community School believes that what is taught and how it is taught are equally important. We have reviewed and reflected on different and innovative methods of instruction and have selected the nationally recognized Core Knowledge Sequence to be the foundation of our academic program.

The Core Knowledge Sequence is a detailed outline of specific content to be taught in language arts, history and geography, math, science, and the fine arts. As the basis .of at least 50% of a school's curriculum, it can provide a solid, coherent foundation for learning, while allowing flexibility to meet local needs.

The curriculum at Birch Grove Community School will weave together the Core Knowledge Sequence and the Minnesota State Academic Standards benchmarks into a comprehensive curriculum map for both the primary and intermediate classrooms.

For the students:

  • Provides a broad base of knowledge and a rich vocabulary

  • Motivates students to learn and creates a strong desire to learn more

  • Provides the knowledge necessary for higher levels of learning and helps build confidence

  • Provides as academic focus and encourages consistency in instruction

  • Promotes a community of learners - adults and children

  • Becomes an effective tool for lesson planning and communication among teachers with parents

  • Guides thoughtful purchases of school resources

For the Parents and the Community:

  • Provides a clear outline of what children are expected to learn in school

  • Encourages parents to participate in their children's education both at home and in school

  • Provides opportunities for community members to help obtain and provide instructional resources

Multi-grade classrooms

  • Younger children actively use older children to develop skills and to acquire knowledge.

  • Mixed-age play offers unique opportunities for creativity and the practice of skills.

  • Age mixing provides opportunities for children to find others of matching abilities.

  • Older children actively assert responsibility for younger ones and develop an increasingly sophisticated understanding of that responsibility.

Special Education

Special education services will be offered on site at Birch Grove Community School. If your child qualifies for these services, he/she will receive services from qualified special education staff.


The Great Outdoors

We live in one of the most beautiful natural environments in the state. We mean to take advantage of it!! Included in our program is the opportunity to go cross-country skiing and ice-skating. We have skis, poles, and skates available for all children! Not only will they be able to do these exciting activities with their classmates, but they will also have the opportunity to rent the equipment for a very small fee and take them home!!

Please feel free to contact the school office if you have any further questions. We would be happy to talk with you!!