OUR PHILOSOPHY We approach curriculum in the broadest possible way, proceeding from concrete to abstract concepts. Self-direction, strong social skills, sound study habits, and a healthy attitude towards learning are fundamental elements in our learning environment. As our students progress through the elementary levels, critical thinking, responsibility and time management become central tenets. We promote an atmosphere of cooperation rather than competition to develop a positive self image and confidence within our students. Our students are working at multiple levels within each classroom. They develop responsibility and time management skills which foster independence.
CLASS LEVELS AND SIZES Our elementary school is organized into two levels: Primary and Elementary. At the Primary level, there are six mixed age classrooms ranging from ages 5-6, 6-7, and 7-8 years of age. Each classroom has two teachers to 24 students. At the Elementary level, there are 4th, 5th, 6th grade classrooms with 24 students and one teacher. At ages 5-6 the classrooms are an extension of the preprimary Montessori curriculum where students no longer have rest time and participate in most all “elementary enrichment” classes. The Reading Program consists of the Montessori Phonetic/Grammar program coupled with the individual readers and moving into the basal readers that are phonics-based, and later Whole Language.
The Math program is a combination of the use of the Montessori math materials and the Mortensen Math manipulatives to insure a complete grasp of math concepts. A basal math book and workbook are introduced as students move from concrete to more abstract practice. The Social Studies program moves from a continuation of the Montessori landforms and map skills, cultural boxes and biomes on each continent to a basic introduction to the Elementary Social Studies “Neighborhoods and Communities” series coupled with current events.
Creative writing with the Write Source Program is added along with the Wordly Wise vocabulary series. Primary classes also have Spanish, Chinese, Science, Music, and Computer classes, art and physical education regularly in their weekly schedules. In our Elementary program the upper division consists of five classrooms ranging from 3rd through 6th grade age children. These classes are multi-level programs consisting of core academic subjects including: reading, math, social studies, language arts, creative writing, and spelling/ word study utilizing the Wordly Wise 3000 vocabulary series. (The 3000 stands for the 3000 vocabulary words they face on the SATs) All areas covered are done at an advanced level to prepare the students for private Middle School if that is their intention. The Reading Program consists of a Whole Language Basal Reader series along with the use of many novels and nonfiction works to encourage independent readers and creative thinkers. The Social Studies curriculum includes a general US History/ geography for 3rd grade, California History for 4th grade, American History for 5th grade, and Ancient History for 6th grade. The Math Program is kept at an advanced level progressing to a 7th / 8th grade level including Pre-Algebra. We also utilize the Mortensen Math Program which includes a hands on approach with multi level strands that include: Algebra, Arithmetic (Base 10 Operations), Calculus, Measurement which includes Geometry, and Problem Solving (solving for X). The Language and Creative Writing Program is based on the Write Source program which encourages each student to raise the level of his/her writing skills and become able to express themselves through poetry, creative prose, and analytical creative writing. The students also participate in Speechmasters which is a children’s version of Toastmasters. It really helps them to become organized writers, and to be comfortable speaking before a group. Along with the Core curriculum they are pulled out half a class at a time for Computer, Science, Music, Spanish, PE, and Art classes. Chinese is available after school for students 3-6 grade.
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