Inviting Success in the Elementary Classroom

The First Steps from Theory to Practice

Abstract

The notion of a community of learners where all participants are treated as valuable, able, and responsible was investigated. This article reports on the findings of the first year of a two-year study that examined a range of practices designed to promote an inviting learning-centered classroom community, tailored to cater more effectively to the diverse needs of all participants. The findings are congruent with the tenet that the core of an effective school program is knowledgeable teachers who have the expertise and inclination to encourage all children to reach their potentials