Lower Division

The first-grade program reinforces the foundation laid in Kindergarten, providing a deeper respect for the environment and our responsibility in it. The year-long theme, “On Wings and Fins,” presents children with opportunities to make real life connections between the world outside of school and the skills and concepts taught in school. It also integrates the impressive migrations of the monarch butterfly and the local whale population into the students’ classroom experiences. All subject skills are taught within this thematic framework. In language arts, first graders experience a variety of literary genres, read independently, in partnerships and begin to study parts of grammar. In math, first graders learn about place value, measurement and collecting and organizing data in various ways. Science focuses on the analysis of migratory animals and their importance in the balance of nature. In addition, knowledgeable educators provide an environment that promotes the joy of learning through collaboration and hands-on experiences. Blanketing the first-grade curricula is an emphasis on the social environment within individual classrooms and the school as a whole. Children and adults are expected to share in the practice of the Village Values as a means to nurture an environment in which children can explore, stretch, succeed, and learn from their mistakes.

The movement from concrete to abstract reasoners defines third grade. Students participate in cooperative and collaborative learning activities designed to develop their social and academic skills. The language arts curriculum encompasses both a traditional approach to grammar and writing as well as a more progressive approach with projects extending from the novel studies. Students solidify literacy skills, in addition to constructing genuine responses to literature. The writing program, one of the hallmarks of the third-grade program, is integrated extensively throughout the curriculum. Students practice writing in a variety of genres, where they learn the writing process. Writing is an essential skill that transcends all academic disciplines. Third also begins the opportunity to participate in small groups. This time provides for enrichment opportunities within mathematics, Readers’ Theater, and critical thinking. Students are fluidly grouped across the grade to ensure students are shoring up areas of need while also stretching their academics.