Shante Lane Tamerat on creating a Reggio-inspired microschool in Maryland
Aug 2, 2024
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Shante Lane Tamerat, co-founder of Discovery Lane, a Reggio Emilia-inspired microschool in Maryland, shares her 15-year journey in education. She discusses the need for inclusive spaces for special needs and neurodiverse students, focusing on child-centered learning. Shante details the challenges of adapting education post-pandemic, including zoning laws and community support. She emphasizes the shift toward learner-centered models and the vital role of autonomy in children's learning while balancing familial ties and professionalism in running a microschool.
Shante Lane Tamerat's journey into education was significantly influenced by her upbringing and the importance of inclusivity in learning environments.
Discovery Lane's Reggio Emilia-inspired approach prioritizes children's active participation and evolving interests, fostering deeper understanding and love for learning.
Deep dives
Shante Lane Tomeret's Journey into Education
Shante Lane Tomeret's entry into education is deeply rooted in her upbringing, where her mother operated an in-home daycare, creating a nurturing environment for children. Initially pursuing a career in psychology, Shante was guided toward education by her experiences working with children and as an ABA therapist. Over time, her experiences in both conventional and specialized educational settings highlighted the need for inclusivity in the classroom. This realization became a driving force behind the creation of Discovery Lane, where the vision was to foster an environment that accommodates all children, reflecting a spectrum of developmental needs.
The Reggio Emilia Approach at Discovery Lane
Discovery Lane embraces the Reggio Emilia approach, which champions the view of children as active participants in their learning rather than passive recipients of information. The curriculum is designed to evolve based on children's interests, encouraging collaboration between educators and students in foundational explorations. Projects such as a marketplace and innovative Black History Month presentations illustrate how children engage with and invest in their learning processes. This model emphasizes not only the results of learning but also the journey, promoting deeper understanding and a love for discovery.
Adapting to Challenges and Expanding Educational Offerings
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic prompted Discovery Lane to adapt by expanding from a preschool to include elementary grades in response to parent demand. Initially focused on early childhood education, the school saw a significant shift in enrollment as families preferred a familiar and safe learning environment for their children during uncertain times. Despite initial challenges, such as navigating zoning laws and ensuring compliance with educational regulations, Shante and her team successfully pivoted the program. As a result, Discovery Lane grew into an inclusive educational community, addressing diverse learning needs and fostering strong relationships with families.
Shante Lane Tamerat is the cofounder of Discovery Lane, a Reggio Emilia-inspired PK-5 private school located in Waldorf, Maryland. Shante has been in education for 15 years, and worked in schools in both Philadelphia and Washington, DC. She has a Bachelor’s in Psychology, a Master’s in Elementary/Special Education, and a Ph.D. in Special Education/Education Leadership.
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