Breakwater truly is a place where “everybody knows your name.” Our small, intimate setting enables us to be a tight-knit community that fosters a culture of belonging, accountability, and support. Older children look out for younger peers on the playground, the Director of Enrollment takes a turn supervising recess, and the Executive Director often greets students in the morning before school. Our teachers’ in-depth understanding of each child’s developmental needs and family background enables them to partner with parents and guardians to offer a personalized learning experience for each student within the flexible yet structured curriculum.

Our school-home partnership is integral to the Breakwater community. Our parents and guardians—and often grandparents and extended family members—are highly invested in their child’s education and actively involved in school activities, from volunteering in the classroom and chaperoning field trips to assisting with events. All parents and guardians are members of the Breakwater Parent Connection, and many participate in ways that best suit their schedules, interests, and areas of expertise. 

Our multi-age classrooms and emphasis on cooperative learning also contribute to our strong sense of community. Two additional programs, both unique and central to the Breakwater experience, dovetail to enhance our school community. Our Social/Emotional curriculum is integrated into daily school life at every grade level and is aimed at developing and honing social and executive function skills, such as problem-solving, conflict resolution, and self-management. Our science/ outdoor adventure program builds community and encourages teamwork, laying the foundation for ongoing group support, personal risk-taking, and individual growth. 

Breakwater’s ties to the greater Portland community are deep and rich with engaging experiential learning opportunities. As students mature through our program, they become increasingly immersed in community field work that solidifies their learning through meaningful, first-hand experience. Beyond just the school day, the Breakwater Enrichment Center serves students from the greater Portland area and beyond through out of school time programming empowering youth to explore and develop their interests, talents, and passions. BWS K-8th grade students are able to engage in activities and camps with children in the greater Portland area through vacation camp programming, AfterCare, enrichment classes, and Summer at Breakwater camps. These opportunities provide cross school friendships that students cherish.

Above all, we are a community of diverse individuals who are united and inspired by a mutual love of learning, appreciation of nature and the arts, and respect for diversity, individuality, and the sanctity of childhood.