Graham says research shows that children learn better when they can make associations between the material they are learning and a larger theme.

"Educators in schools do not always teach from a research basis," Graham says. "It is rare to find a school that teaches by applying."

Banneker parents seem supportive of the school's methods.

"The Banneker school is taught from a multi-cultural perspective with an emphasis on math, science and technology," says Lana W. Jackman, whose son, Mark, is a second-grader. "My child is being exposed to a world view because the school pulls in from the whole globe, not just the United States.

The six-week units conclude with an exhibition featuring student-produced artwork and research.

Jackman says the student exhibitions were nothing short of extraordinary.

"Your child is like a little peacock taking you around and showing you everything he learned for the past week," Jackman says. "You see those kids shine from the work that they've done.

Parental Involvement

But Graham says the student exhibitions promote parental involvement, a necessary component for the success of any charter school.

Hall, who serves on the after-school committee and as a member of the board of trustees, says the emphasis on parental involvement was an important factor in his decision to enroll his daughter at Banneker.

"This is an opportunity that is second-to-none," Hall says. "This is an entire educational experience for both students and parents."

Jackman says that as a professional working parent, it was a pleasant change to see teachers interested in her ideas for the classroom.

"The Banneker school actively involves the parents in the whole process--teaching and learning," says Jackman, an academic adviser at the University of Massachusetts-Boston. "I wanted to be able to speak to another professional who would listen to my ideas about what could be done in the classroom."

Jackman, also a representative on the board of trustees, says she is thrilled with the school's welcoming environment.

"You can walk into a classroom and see what your child is learning without making an appointment," Jackman says.