By Amanda Slefo, Director and Partner of Barcelona High School
The BHS Method: Build, Harvest, Succeed
At Barcelona High School (BHS), we’re not just teaching for today; we’re laying the groundwork for a lifetime of learning. Indeed, the BHS in the BHS Method doesn't stand for Barcelona High School as you might expect. In the BHS Method, BHS stands for Build, Harvest, Succeed. Accordingly, the BHS Method is all about making education relevant, impactful, and something that you carry with you wherever you go. It’s our way of teaching that’s designed to blend right into everyday life, so learning becomes second nature. Here’s how we do it.
The Power of Great Teachers
Let’s cut to the chase: the quality of your education depends a lot on your teachers. A great teacher can make you excited to learn, while a bad one can turn you off completely. They’re the ones who either light that spark or leave you counting down the minutes. That’s why at BHS, we’re serious about who we bring on board. We’re not just looking for experts; we want educators who can connect on a human level. Our students are sharp—you can spot a fake from a mile away. We hire teachers who are here because they love to teach, who are inspired and inspiring, and who bring their whole selves into the classroom.
Finding Your Voice
Our pedagogy is built on the power of voice. In every 90-minute class, you will hear your name spoken by your teachers or peers, or both. This isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about making sure each student feels seen and valued. For some of you, simply responding with a “Hi” is a victory. For others, it’s finding the courage to voice an answer to a challenging question. Understanding your unique needs and boundaries allows our teachers to tailor their approach—knowing when to push you and when to offer you space so every student can grow in their own way.
Struggle is Part of the Process
Growth doesn’t happen in the comfort zone—it happens when we’re challenged. In fact, at BHS, we believe that struggling with something new is where real growth happens. That’s why each class at BHS starts with a challenge, something that pushes you to think, to question, to dig deep. In a History class, this might be analyzing a primary source like a photograph or journal entry. In Physics, it could be solving a problem about the trajectory of a roller coaster. In Art, it might involve interpreting a Basquiat print. We do this in every single class, every single day because we want you to get comfortable with the discomfort of not knowing. This is about building resilience, teaching you to approach the unknown not with fear or frustration, but with curiosity, resourcefulness, and unwavering tenacity.
The Art of Storytelling
We believe in the power of a good story. While student-centered learning is important, there’s still a place for direct instruction—when it’s done right. In modern education, direct instruction can sometimes be seen as outdated, with a strong emphasis on student-centered learning. At BHS, our student surveys have shown us that sometimes you want guidance which is why the second part of our classes is actually dedicated to storytelling and direct instruction. What we have gathered is that you want to hear from your teachers, but what you don’t want is to be talked at for an entire class. This section of class is about giving you the context you need and sparking your interest in the subject. Our teachers are there to connect the dots and make the material come alive. This approach works because it follows the struggle, offering clarity and insight after you’ve grappled with the unknown. Teachers are encouraged to impart knowledge creatively, using their voices not to dominate, but to enlighten and provoke thoughtful discussion.
Creating Something Meaningful
After the struggle and instruction, it’s time to create. We carve out space for students to apply what they’ve learned—whether through projects, discussions, or starting on assignments. We’re not about overwhelming students with homework; we understand you have full lives outside of school that involve music, sports, family, and friends. When homework is assigned, it’s because it’s meaningful and reinforces what you’ve learned, not just for the sake of it. Our focus is on making the most of our time together, ensuring that the work you do is meaningful and connected to your growth. We want you to learn how to balance responsibilities and passions, setting you up for success beyond the classroom.
Preparing for the Real World
At the end of the day, we’re preparing our students for life. When you step out of BHS, we want you to be ready for whatever comes your way. That means knowing how to struggle, how to research, how to ask the right questions, and how to think critically about the answers you find. But it also means having the confidence to take what you’ve learned and create something new—something that matters in your world. The BHS Method isn’t just about getting through school; it’s about setting students up for a lifetime of learning, growth, and impact.
The BHS Method: A Philosophy for Lifelong Learning
The BHS Method is more than just an educational approach; it’s a philosophy for life. It’s about preparing you for real-world challenges, equipping you with the skills and mindset to thrive in any situation. We believe that real learning happens when education becomes an integral part of your life, not just something you do in school. At BHS, we’re not just teaching for today; we’re preparing you for a lifetime of learning. Are you ready to take on the challenge?
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