Elementary

The Elementary community consists of a Montessori certified lead teacher and a full-time assistant in each classroom. The students are grouped in 3-year age spans: Lower Elementary for ages 6-9 and Upper Elementary for ages 9-12. There are generally 25 students per class.

At this age, children need an environment encouraging social interaction and independence from adults by his/her own efforts. Children at this age are curious to answer the how and why of their environment. They have a need for abstraction, intellectual activity, and self-expression.

The Elementary program gears the work to be more independent and less teacher initiated. It provides opportunities to explore concepts in a variety of ways: concrete, abstract, and real-life experiences. Practical life is expressed through organization of tasks benefitting the classroom community. The preparation of more complex practical activities is how children continue to bring order to their environment, like planning a field trip, community service event, or a celebration meal.

Language is integrated into all aspects of the curriculum, specifically oral and written expression and reading. Language Arts becomes a major tool for research and oral presentations. Research projects incorporate the development of skills and the exploration of subject areas in multi-aged collaborative groups.

Montessori math provides a solid foundation for math concepts and application. Math and Geometry is approached so a natural connection to the environment is obvious. Cultural (geographical) subjects are explored through group and individual studies and act as a means by which to integrate the entire curriculum. A natural connection between the past and present is examined through Zoology and Botany.

The Elementary environment satisifies the needs of the whole-child at this age. Through this environment, social responsibility and cooperation with adults comes naturally. Children develop the ability to verbally express concerns and emotions. Through the study of core curricula, children develop a love of learning and become responsible individuals who are able to think critically.

ELEMENTARY PROGRAM SCHEDULE: Monday-Friday
Full Day: 8:15-3:00