Upper Elementary

Upper Elementary

Upper Elementary

Learning How to Think (Grades 4-6)

Learning How to Think (Grades 4-6)

The transition from Lower to Upper Elementary is a time of great change, as students move from the concrete world of their earlier years to the threshold of abstract thinking. Here, they are gently guided toward emerging adolescence.

The transition from Lower to Upper Elementary is a time of great change, as students move from the concrete world of their earlier years to the threshold of abstract thinking. Here, they are gently guided toward emerging adolescence.

Learning How to Think (Grades 4-6)

The transition from Lower to Upper Elementary is a time of great change, as students move from the concrete world of their earlier years to the threshold of abstract thinking. Here, they are gently guided toward emerging adolescence.

The focus is on refining the foundations of organization, executive function, self‑confidence, cooperation, and curiosity essential to success in middle school and beyond. Guides follow the child to provide growing academic challenges while remaining respectful of the complex social world of children at this transitional stage.

Science

Independent experiments & research projects build the scientific method & inquiry.

Science

Independent experiments & research projects build the scientific method & inquiry.

5 Great Lessons

The Five Great Lessons return each year with greater depth, giving students an ever‑expanding, connected view of the universe, life, humanity, math, and language.

5 Great Lessons

The Five Great Lessons return each year with greater depth, giving students an ever‑expanding, connected view of the universe, life, humanity, math, and language.

Language Arts

Advanced grammar, research, & persuasive writing sharpen voice & independent thought.

Language Arts

Advanced grammar, research, & persuasive writing sharpen voice & independent thought.

Mathematics

Students move fluently from concrete materials into algebraic & abstract reasoning.

Mathematics

Students move fluently from concrete materials into algebraic & abstract reasoning.

Cultural Studies

Through in-depth research & the study of civilizations, children see how the natural world & human history connect, & their own place within it.

Cultural Studies

Through in-depth research & the study of civilizations, children see how the natural world & human history connect, & their own place within it.

Peace Education

Students learn to express their feelings respectfully & solve problems peacefully by listening, taking turns, & working together.

Peace Education

Students learn to express their feelings respectfully & solve problems peacefully by listening, taking turns, & working together.

Beyond the Classroom

Beyond the Classroom

Beyond the Classroom

Outdoor Learning Spaces

Children learn best in direct contact with the natural world. Every Lower Elementary classroom opens onto its own outdoor learning space, where the prepared environment continues under open sky. Children garden, observe living things, move freely, and choose to bring their work outdoors throughout the day. A rich variety of field trips throughout the year lets students explore the world beyond the classroom and see how their lessons connect to real life.


Co-Curriculars

Lower Elementary students enjoy a full program of co-curricular classes each week, taught by specialists who bring energy and expertise to every lesson.


  • Art (weekly): Young artists explore the history and cultural significance behind each art style. Each year, the art curriculum centers on the artistic traditions of our annual continent of study.

  • Music (weekly): Children explore rhythm & melody through singing, movement, & instruments, which builds confidence & creativity.

  • Spanish (once weekly): Conversation, stories, & songs build Spanish vocabulary, confident speaking, & early reading & writing skills.

  • Gymnastics (weekly): A structured introduction to movement, balance, and body awareness.

  • Physical Education (3x week): Children develop strength, coordination, & sportsmanship through team games & skill-building activities.

Typical Daily Schedule

Typical Daily Schedule

Typical Daily Schedule

8:15-8:30

Arrival

8:30-8:45

Morning Circle

9:00-11:30

Work Period

11:30-12:30

Recess & Lunch

11:30-12:30

Lunch

12:30-2:15

Work Period & Co-Curriculars

2:15-2:45

Community Meeting

2:45-3:15

Reflection & Care

3:15

Dismissal

3:15-6:00

Optional Extended Day

8:15-8:30

Arrival

8:30-8:45

Morning Circle

9:00-11:30

Work Period

11:30-12:30

Recess & Lunch

11:30-12:30

Lunch

12:30-2:15

Work Period & Co-Curriculars

2:15-2:45

Community Meeting

2:45-3:15

Reflection & Care

3:15

Dismissal

3:15-6:00

Optional Extended Day