The Elementary Program

   First Grade

The elementary class is a community of learners grouped into the lower elementary,
ages six to nine. Children in the elementary classroom are moving toward abstract
reasoning, developing a moral sense, and have a passionate drive to learn about the
natural and social world. The mixed aged grouping encourages mentoring for the older
students that help them process their knowledge. The older students model more mature
behavior and problem solving for the younger students that encourages them to develop
their social responsibility and leadership skills. The mixed aged grouping provides
for a family-like atmosphere where leaning can take place naturally. The six to twelve
child takes responsibility for her or his actions and plays a vital role in maintaining
the environment.

The schedule is designed with large blocks of uninterrupted time to facilitate the
interdisciplinary connections of knowledge. The six to nine classroom reflects the child's
work to order their world with reason. The six to nine students are concerned with the
workings of society that is supported with research projects and group readings of
literature. The student works to master skills at their own pace in mathematics and language
while studying science, history, and geography at their own pace. This structure facilitates
both independent study and group work in this self-paced, cooperative program.
Creativity flourishes in this atmosphere of trust and acceptance. Art, music, drama, and
Spanish classes meet weekly enriching the curriculum. Elementary students are afforded
situations that help develop communication skills, become creative thinkers and problem-solvers,
develop group effectiveness skills, and understand time management. Each child is shown
respect and is expected to respect others.