Open Classroom

The Open Classroom (OC) in Salt Lake City is a unique, alternative K-8 program within the Salt Lake City School District that emphasizes a "community-centered" approach to education. Unlike traditional schools, the OC is built on the philosophy that education is a collaborative partnership between teachers, students, and parents. This model requires a high level of parental involvement, as families are expected to participate in the classroom and contribute to the school’s governance, creating a tight-knit, supportive environment where parents play an active role in their child's daily learning experience.

Academically, the school focuses on multi-age groupings, which allow students to learn at their own pace while developing strong mentorship bonds across different grade levels. The curriculum prioritizes hands-on, experiential learning and social-emotional development over rigid standardized testing, aiming to foster independent thinkers and responsible citizens. By blending a flexible, child-centered instructional style with a strong requirement for family participation, the Open Classroom provides a distinct educational setting for families looking for a more personalized, democratic, and community-focused school experience.