Big Minds Unschool
Big Minds is an attachment-based, community focused school designed to give 2e students the time and support necessary to grow into thoughtful, articulate citizens.
Our focus is on socio-emotional development that supports both cognitive and creative growth. Students and teachers are continually engaged in a passionate, reciprocal learning process. Our academic work is inquiry-based, dynamic, and follows student interests.
Big Minds is designed to help 2e children reach their full intellectual and creative potential, while giving them the necessary skills to be socially competent in the world.
Big Minds is a pioneering school for children grades 1-8.
At Big Minds, students are encouraged to participate in designing their day and selecting learning activities. Our school was designed by Dr. Hayes to meet the unique academic needs of twice exceptional children. When they are not working with a teacher, students are encouraged to play, generate activities, find their strengths, and exercise their imagination. Using a flexible framework, students are guided as they explore their passions, learn to problem-solve, and develop social skills.
At Big Minds learning is a QUEST! Students are encouraged to ask the big Questions that reflect their interests and passions. Faculty help them learn to formulate ideas and conduct research in order to Understand topics at a deep level. Students begin to Explore ways to integrate their learning into their lives in an authentic way. Faculty and students Strategize methodology and compile findings related to each student’s work. Finally, students can then reach out to others to Teach them what they know.
Twice exceptional children need schools to be think tanks for innovation, where the focus is on their strengths and passions.
They need to have choice in how, when, and what they learn.
They need access to information, materials, and technology.
They need adults to mentor and facilitate their ideas and creations.
They need to be nurtured and inspired from an early age.
Big Minds was designed to nurture budding 2e innovators and creators to prepare them to bring their unique genius into the world.
For the 2022-2023 school year there are 4 different ways your child can be a Big Minds Unschool student.
We have two physical sites in Pinole and Pleasanton, California, an online cohort,
and a Homeschool Support option.
We are currently accepting applications for our programs on a rolling basis.
1937 San Pablo Avenue
Pinole, CA 94564
6691 Owens Drive
Pleasanton, CA,
member, Inclusive Schools Group
keywords: elementary, middle school