Deweyan Emphasis
John Dewey
John Dewey:
"Portrait of a Progressive Thinker"
Progressive Philosophy
At Lynnhaven, our approach to education is deeply rooted in the progressive philosophy of John Dewey—an American philosopher, psychologist, and educational reformer whose ideas continue to shape some of the most forward-thinking schools in the country.
Dewey believed that education should be grounded in real-life experiences, driven by student inquiry, and focused on preparing young people to be thoughtful, engaged members of a democratic society. This isn’t a trend or a loosely defined model—it’s a well-established, research-backed approach practiced by renowned schools across the U.S., including The Putney School in Vermont, Bank Street School in New York, and the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools, which Dewey himself founded in 1896. Like these institutions, Lynnhaven is committed to hands-on, inquiry-based learning where students are active participants in their own education.
Our outdoor campus, community engagement, and individualized advising reflect Dewey’s belief that learning should be both personal and purposeful. When you choose Lynnhaven, you’re choosing a school built on a legacy of educational innovation that prepares students not just for college—but for life.
