Elementary

What sets Montessori apart in the Elementary years is the individually paced curriculum that challenges children academically while nurturing their social, emotional, mental and physical wellbeing. Engaging as contributing members of a respectful community, they learn to question, think critically, and take responsibility for their own learning—skills that will support them in later education and in life. 

Our Elementary program is divided into two groups: Lower Elementary (1st to 3rd grades) and Upper Elementary (4th to 6th grades). Two hallmarks of Montessori education are the mixed-age grouping and the 3-year cycle, where children remain in the same classroom for three years. This multi-age community provides opportunities for all individuals to learn from each other, at times leading, sharing, or serving as role models. 

Teachers guide children through a rigorous and progressive curriculum individually tailored to their own interests, needs, and abilities. Unlike in a conventional program with a separate time of the day for each subject, your child will gain a much deeper understanding of concepts by learning in context. Our class day consists of long, open-ended work periods that respect your child’s curiosity and concentration while encouraging self-motivation, concentration and independence.

Students may choose to form or join a group to work with concepts introduced in a lesson. And, because they can move freely around the classroom, it’s not uncommon for ideas to spread; children are stimulated not just by the lessons they receive, but by each other.

The starting point for all courses of study is the “Great Lessons;” these impressionistic and scientific stories give your child the “big picture” of astronomy, earth science, geography, physics, biology, history, anthropology, cultural and social studies, language, math, music and art. Meaningful, deep learning happens when children understand the “why” as much as the “what” – and are inspired to learn even more on their own. Specially designed Montessori materials translate abstract ideas into concrete form to support them in this learning.

The ability to continue to learn at one’s own pace, to explore one’s unique interests, while nurturing the development of the whole child (academic, physical, social, and emotional) naturally instills a love of learning for Montessori children. The ultimate goal of the Montessori Elementary program is to develop the students’ abilities and self-confidence so that they can take charge of their learning. Students become independent learners and compassionate, critical thinkers who will become positive forces to care for and transform our world.

Drama Productions

Computer Technology instruction (Upper Elementary)

Hands-on STEAM Lab work

Second Step Social-Emotional Curriculum

Campouts

Field Day trips

Multi-day backpacking trips (Upper Elementary)

Student Government (Upper Elementary)

Extracurricular programs