Ridley School District employs the C.L.A.S.S. (Connecting Learning Assures Successful Students) instructional model in the kindergarten through grade 8 programs. This instructional model applies brain research in the areas of school climate, community, and curriculum.

The C.L.A.S.S. Mission

C.L.A.S.S. exists to:

Translate brain research into practical classroom application
Provide research-based techniques that drive successful learning
Prepare current and future educators to become exemplary practitioners
Create a philosophical foundation in the school community that empowers the growth of students in becoming productive contributors in society

C.L.A.S.S., Connecting Learning Assures Successful Students, is a comprehensive curriculum model and philosophy founded by Barbara Pedersen. The C.L.A.S.S. Model provides a philosophy of teaching and learning, standard-based curriculum development, and research-based teaching strategies based upon the constructs of brain-based learning.

Brain-based learning is a dynamic, multi-disciplinary approach to learning that is grounded in neuro-scientific research. It is a set of principles and a base of knowledge and skills that lead educators to make sound decisions about the use and alignment of their teaching practices connected to the latest research on how the brain learns best.
We embrace the philosophy that all students can learn, and given the proper environment and academic program, teachers and students can strive for academic excellence.

The Strands of the C.L.A.S.S. Model

The C.L.A.S.S. Model is pided into three strands:
Climate
Community
Curriculum

Although the Model is pided into three strands for ease of learning and understanding, all three strands are interdependent. This will become evident the more you use the Model. Each strand emphasizes the application of research-based strategies in:

standard-based curriculum development
processing and assessment
literacy development
evaluation
direct instruction
classroom management/positive behavior support
character development

Ridley School District

Special Academic Programs

Attendance

C.L.A.S.S.

English Learners

Gifted

Response to Instruction & Intervention

Special Education