Steller Secondary School

Philosophy Speak:
WITH THE SUPPORT OF PARENTS AND STAFF, IT (STELLER) ATTEMPTS TO PROVIDE STUDENTS WITH A HUMANE EDUCATION BASED UPON FREEDOM AND RESPONSIBILITY.

You will probably hear the phrase “Humane Education” a lot during your time at Steller. It is mentioned several times in the Philosophy, and is one of the basic ideas of Steller, along with self-directed learning and responsible freedom. Chances are you already know what humane education is, whether or not you can define it.

Humane Education….

IS NOT treating students like criminals needing constant supervision.

IS TRUSTING STUDENTS. We have no security guards, metal detectors, random locker searches or rules against carrying around your backback.

IS NOT “disciplining” students for normal behavior.

IT IS ALLOWING STUDENTS THE FREEDOM TO EXPRESS THEMSELVES. This means you can tap a friend’s shoulder to get their attention, or even give someone a hug without being in danger of detention.

IS NOT avoiding reality in attempts to keep students happy and complacent.

IS GIVING STUDENTS INFORMATION AND ENCOURAGING THEM TO FORM THEIR OWN OPINIONS ABOUT CONTROVERSIAL ISSUES. Sometimes the world is a harsh place, but being protected from reality makes it difficult to live in reality later in life. At Steller, we frequently have class discussions about current events and difficult issues. Students are often asked to look at an issue from another viewpoint. Your ideas will be challenged - that’s how you’ll grow.

IS NOT having all the decisions which are rightfully yours made for you.

IS LETTING STUDENTS GET THEIR EDUCATION IN THE WAY WHICH BEST FITS THEM. No one else can understand your goals and abilities the way you can. Does it make sense for them to arrange your schedule?

IS NOT going over a student’s head to speak with their parents or other authority figures before confronting the student.

IS COMING TO THE STUDENT FIRST, OR NOTIFYING THEM OF INFORMATION GIVEN TO THEIR PARENTS AND OTHER TEACHERS. If a teacher has a problem with you, you are the one they will come to first. If the problem continues, a meeting will be set up with the staff member, you, your parent or guardian, and your advisor. Sometimes, for expediancy a teacher will e-mail a response to a parent or return their phone calls without talking to you first, but not about big problems, and they will still notify you of these events.

IS NOT encouraging blind obedience to authority. At Steller, you will be encouraged to question authority at all levels. You will be asked to truly think about ideas, and express your opinion. Just remember while you’re doing this, be respectful of the opinions of others, which brings us to what Humane Edcuation is….

HUMANE EDUCATION…..

IS BEING RESPECTED.

Respectful interactions are at the core of Steller. Everyone deserves respect, whether or not you agree with them, their ideas, or the way they choose to live their lives. As long as Steller is a school based on mutual respect, between staff, students, and parents, the things above come naturally.

How would you define a Humane Education?

We have a right to do things on our own. It’s good and works well.
Kili, 8th

One that tailors to you.
John, 8th

When the environment is friendly to both staff and students and both parties are teaching and learning. Also when the staff don’t act like they know more than you, even though they do.
Melissa, 9th

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