At PDS, we have a deep desire for our boys to become capable contributors to the world’s needs. Using our customized design thinking framework, PDS boys become need-finders and collaborate together to create products, services, experiences, or systems that fit the end-user’s needs. We call our framework EDGE and use each letter to guide the design process.
Students determine a problem that needs attention. The need could be that of students at PDS or a large scale global issue.
Developing empathy is critical to understanding the human elements of a problem and a good solution. The empathy stage helps students find a connection between the need at hand and their own experiences.
Students use creativity, ingenuity, inference, and collaboration skills to generate ideas for solutions. Special emphasis is placed on students understanding that “wild ideas are okay” and that they are a valuable part of the idea growth phase. One wild idea could be the opening pathway to a perfect solution.
Prototypes may be grand three-dimensional objects or a simple sketch, experience, or service. Regardless of the size or structure, students spend time evaluating their own work. They look critically at the prototype and ask, “Is this the best that we can do?” Reflection is a key component of the design process and a necessary step in reaching the ultimate goal of a meaningful solution.
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We intentionally educate and nurture the heart, soul, mind, and body of each boy.
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We know, nurture, and love each boy as a unique child of God.
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We teach the Bible and model the Christian faith to our boys.
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We aren't just teachers; we are life-long learners and students.
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We push students to engage as thinkers.
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In an increasingly connected world, our curriculum has a global perspective.
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Flexible teaching strategies seek to maximize learning for each boy.
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Our assessments aren't just a way to measure learning — we want our boys to demonstrate understanding.
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We seek to enroll boys from diverse backgrounds.
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We seek balance and excellence in all we do.
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We aren't just boy-friendly; we're boy-specific.
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Our program sets a foundation of learning that will help boys thrive beyond PDS.
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We take time to make sure our faculty and staff are growing spiritually.
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We hold high standards for ourselves, pushing ourselves to reflect, renew, and grow.
Presbyterian Day School (PDS) is a private, Christian preschool and elementary school serving boys from 2-years-old through 6th grade for almost 75 years.
With our mission of striving to glorify God by developing boys in wisdom and stature and favor with God and man, we take a holistic approach to education, nurturing the heart, soul, mind, and body of each boy.