Middle & Upper Elementary (Ages 6-10)
Our elementary program encompasses grades first through fourth, and students continue in multi-age, looped classes. Teachers prioritize collaboration and design lessons to promote discussion and teamwork. Our non-graded program is developmentally-appropriate and inquiry-based, nurturing creativity and providing a strong academic foundation. The curriculum emphasizes creative problem-solving, analytical thinking, and communication skills over rote memorization and testing. Multi-age groupings, looping, and buddy programs develop leadership and mentoring skills. Service projects encourage personal responsibility while connecting our students to the local community. A continued focus on social and emotional learning allows for growth in inter- and intrapersonal skills.
- Multi-age groupings of 10 to 14 students
- Multiple-year looping of students with the same teachers
- Recognition of learning modalities, levels of ability, and rates of development that allows students to progress at their own pace
- Active, hands-on, project-oriented learning
- Assessment based on observation, class work, and projects
- Triannual family/student/teacher conferences to review work, set individual goals, and assess progress
- Thematic learning, including the integration of art, music, drama, and technology into the core curriculum
- Spanish language and culture studies
- Twice-daily outdoor recess
- Daily interactions with preschool and middle school students, plus regular opportunities for buddy/mentor time
- Community service and lessons that reflect our guiding rule The Big One.
- Off-campus learning opportunities, including nature study trips and field trips to regional cultural and historical attractions