Connecticut Experiential Learning Center

CT Experiential Learning Center (CELC) Middle School empowers students and changes lives! Effective purposeful academics integrated with dynamic experiential opportunities strengthen and solidify competence and confidence!

CELC’s innovative approach bases its learning community in the academic components that are essential for scholarship, while encouraging responsibility, independence and respect for self, others and the environment. Priority is given to the social and emotional aspects that are necessary for the young adolescent to truly thrive, rather than just survive these complex yet pivotal years of growth.

Students come from a variety of towns throughout Connecticut, from families looking for a program that engages and deepens learning, where their children can flourish during these important and impactful 5th - 8th grade years.

CELC provides an energizing, personalized, and significant middle school experience for each student. Small in size, lasting in impact, CELC prides itself on teaching the value of being productive members of the local community and constructive citizens of the world.

In keeping with the best practices for adolescent learners, considerable attention is given to connecting individual curricular areas tooverarching themes. Studentsexplore essential questionsthat unite broad areas of knowledge, relate historical concepts and trends to current events and their own experiences, refine their research and writing skills and have opportunities to work both independently and cooperatively. Math, Science, Language Arts, U.S. History and Current Events are integrated with, and enriched by, the curriculum in the areas of Environmental Studies and Leadership Training, Peace Studies, Music, Art, Drama, Cooking and Service Learning.

Through the outdoor education program, students are encouraged to extend beyond their personal comfort levels in a demanding yet supportive environment. Hiking, backpacking, skiing, kayaking, and outdoor survival training provide opportunities to utilize newfound skills and levels of assuredness.
Faculty and guests artists bring expertise in diverse areas, designed to broaden a student’s perspective and understanding.

The intention of CELC is to challenge students and nurture their highest potential. By providing a community based in the guiding principles of integrity and individual learning, the innate desires of all children to learn, grow, communicate and create are honored.

CELC also offers a variety of workshops and special events throughout the year for students and parents.

To schedule a visit or for more information, email mandm@CTExperiential.org.

Visit us online www.CTExperiential.org to subscribe to our mailing list.