Mission and Philosophy

Olander Elementary School's Mission  and Philosophy

Our mission is to teach children to communicate effectively, to solve problems, to understand and cooperate with others, to appreciate and care for the world in which they live, and to be lifelong learners. 

To accomplish this mission and be successful, the staff at Olander Elementary is committed to a number of tenets and conditions must be in place within the school. These are:

Our Learning Environment

• The needs of children are the basis for all facets of the school program and all decisions are made based on each student's best interest.
  
• The environment of the school is emotionally safe, loving, nurturing, open and supportive, with clear expectations for appropriate behavior.
  
• Students and staff are challenged to continually work toward their highest possible potential
  
• Students and staff are challenged to take risks and supported to learn and grow.
  
• Diversity is valued and all individuals are welcomed into the educational program
  
• Learning is stimulating, challenging, and actively involves students.
  
• Successes are celebrated and problems identified, confronted and solved.
  
• Humor, fun and laughter are part of a healthy school.
  
• All individuals can learn from each other.

Our Interpersonal Relationships

• Success is dependent on a common set of beliefs and focus of energy by all stakeholders in the school, i.e., a continual "team effort" to achieve school goals is critical.
  
• Self-esteem in all individuals is developed through the expression of respect for oneself and others.  Respect means being kind, honest, trustworthy and tolerant of individual differences and views.
  
• Honest and open communication is a hallmark of a healthy organization and trusting interpersonal relationships.
  
• When the needs and input of all members of the school community are taken into account, the best decisions are most likely to be made.
  
• Education is a partnership among parents, staff and children.
  
• Students and the entire Olander community follow the B.E.S.T. code.