Winter Hill Community Innovation School uses a collaborative approach to teaching and learning. Teachers regularly meet in one-on-one conferences with students to assess progress and mutually set goals. As part of its Innovation status, WHCIS enjoys increase autonomy and has introduced new educational practices to better meet the needs of a highly diverse range of learners. WHCIS uses cross-team, grade-level common planning time, uses Responsive Classroom social & emotional learning program, and pilots the Breakfast in the Classroom program. WHCIS innovates to support the Whole Child.
Opportunities and Special Features offered at WHCIS
K-8 Elementary Special Education programs with a focus on inclusionary practices.
K-8 Winter Hill Students recently developed and embraced a flexible school dress code.
3 Swimming lessons as part of physical education for part of third grade.
4-8 All students may take string instrument classes.
5 Participate in CycleKids, a bicycle skills and nutrition program that typically runs for between 6-8 weeks.
5-8 Students may take band instrument classes.
6-8 Middle Grades Sheltered English Immersion Program (SEIP) with a focus on inclusionary practices.
6-8 Spanish language instruction offered to students who achieve proficiency in both English Language Arts and Math on the prior spring's MCAS test.
6-8 Middle Grades Aspirations Team encourages students to play an active role in school decision-making and in developing positive school culture.
6-8 Annual Leadership Day run by the Student Aspirations Teams. Community Leaders present to small groups of students and students reflect on paths to their own success.
6-8 College preparedness through site visits to colleges and visits from colleges to the school.
6-8 Biogen Idec lab field trips.
6-8 Home base for district-wide middle grades after schools program
PK-8 Breakfast in the Classroom pilot program. Support learning by ensuring students start the day with a healthy first meal.
K-8 Use of Responsive Classroom to promote a common language school-wide and to support development of a positive school climate
K-8 Tutoring and support for struggling students through the Afterschool Tutoring Program and Tufts University students.
PK-8 Extensive outdoor space includes 2 full basketball courts, 2 tot lots and an On-site School Garden for science & health instruction
PK-8 Dress code developed by students.
PK-8 Free fruit and vegetable snack grant for morning snack