Pinkerton

COPPELL INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

W.W. PINKERTON ELEMENTARYA School of Inquiry-Based Learning

Kristi Mikkelsen, Principal260 Southwestern Boulevard Coppell, Texas 75019214.496.6800www.coppellisd.com/pickpinkertonTwitter @pinkyprincipal

Pick

Risk-takers

We empower learners to become inquirers and compassionate individuals who make innovative contributions to our global society.

At Pinkerton:

• Instruction is delivered through an inquiry-based model of learning, integrating all subject areas.

• Learners engage in independent research beginning in first grade through multiple technology platforms.

• Each unit incorporates cultural awareness and promotes thinking from global perspectives.

• Language acquisition is enriched through weekly Spanish instruction.

• International mindedness inspires learners to take action in their community or world.

• Learning is showcased through digital portfolios and learner-led conferences.

• Outdoor education through the Pinkerton Patch is an integral part of all core academic areas.

• Fine Arts instruction is authentic and hands-on helping learners make genuine connections.

“I like learning through inquiry because it makes me think differently. Teachers get to interact more with us.” –Jake, 5th Grade

Pinkerton’s Guiding Purpose:

Global Learners

“I am amazed at the level of engagement I see in our classrooms and hallways. Educators are designing learning experiences that spark learners’ curiosity and creativity, encouraging them to think critically and take ownership of their learning.”

–Kristi Mikkelsen,Principal

“Learners at Pinkerton are becoming more independent in their thinking and problem solving. They have a genuine concern for helping our world become a better place.” –Rhonda Pickrell, Educator

Pinkerton Elementary is in the process of submitting our application to the International Baccalaureate

Organization (IBO) to offer the IB Primary Years Programme (IB-PYP).

The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme Is an Inquiry-Based Learning Model that Focuses on:

• The whole child as an inquirer

• A learner’s academic, social, and emotional well-being

• Learners developing independence and taking responsibility for their own learning

• A framework guided by six transdisciplinary themes of global significance

• Fostering international-mindedness with the flexibility to accommodate

the state’s curriculum (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills)

For more information about the IB Primary Years Programme, visit http://www.ibo.org/pyp/

Inquirers

Learning is spiraled through the grades and aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS).

Units incorporate all content areas, including math, science, language and literacy, social studies and fine

arts. The following is an example of a central Idea/enduring understanding from each grade level

illustrating vertical alignment for the theme of “Sharing the Planet.”

KindergartenLife follows cycles that are affected by the environment.

First GradeAnimals interact in their environment.

Second GradeConservation of our natural resources makes a positive impact on

our environment.

Third Grade

The interdependence between organisms allows them to survive in an ecosystem.

Fourth GradeMan-made and natural systems interact and have an impact on each other.

Fifth GradeOrganisms’ interdependence within the ecosystem relies on their relationship between living and

nonliving elements.

The greater depth of knowledge that is developed over the years provides the foundational skills

that are necessary for study in all advanced content areas as well as for lifelong learning.

Units of Inquiry

Compassionate

Produced by the Coppell ISD Department of Communications & Public Relations