Elementary

As children continue to work with the familiar, concrete materials of the Primary classroom, they are able to work at their own pace toward abstraction. Group projects and exciting research spark the imaginations and engage the intellects of the Elementary children. Vivid stories of the earth’s history as well as stories of human discovery and culture encourage an appreciation of the beauty and wonder all around.

The Elementary curriculum aims to orient the children to the universe and helps them to recognize and understand their place in it. Montessori’s vision for the Elementary child is cosmic in its truest sense. The seeds of all the sciences are sown in the Elementary classroom. Elementary studies include geography, biology, history, language, mathematics, science, music and art. Activities are conducted in Spanish in many areas of the classroom as one builds upon the Spanish conversational skills that have developed in the Primary classroom. Exploration of each area is supported through trips outside the classroom, helping the children to deepen their awareness of the world and to recognize their interdependence and connectedness to all that is in it.

Field trips and community outings are an integral part of our Elementary program. Elementary children are encouraged to interact with the local community through excursions such as nature walks, neighborhood clean-ups, as well as trips to the library, and even the local supermarket. Organized field trips to museums, outdoor gardens, and theater performances also occur on a regular basis. In addition, the Elementary children select several worthy charities on an annual basis to support with their own fundraising efforts. This inclusive approach to education encourages the natural desire of the children to make contributions to the world around them as well as fostering a sense of connectedness to the world around them.