The lower school provides a progressively challenging program for students from kindergarten through 5th grade. It provides young learners with both a core set of academic skills and a respect for the world around them as a meaningful foundation for learning and life. The dual curriculum is individualized, challenging, and integrated to ensure that students develop a love of learning, gain confidence as learners, and learn key foundation skills.
LANGUAGE ARTS:
- Robust literature, language, and comprehension program that encompasses a balance of oral and written language as well as critical thinking skills
- Emphasis on phonetic awareness and decoding skills
- Literature-based program offering an individualized and challenging analysis of various texts
MATH:
- Well-rounded and individualized math program designed to enhance mathematical rigor with conceptual understanding, procedural skills and fluency, and application
- Emphasis on building upon the foundation of basic math skills through algebra-based problem-solving, including a variety of math strategies and critical thinking skills
- Available enrichment opportunities for all elementary students who demonstrate a strong mathematical aptitude
SCIENCE:
- Utilization of labs and lectures, emphasizing hands-on experiential learning opportunities.
- Exploration of topics that have relevance to today’s world, such as pollution, endangered species, renewable resources, and the rain forest, as well as basic curriculum studies in science
- Instruction by a specialist in the field
SOCIAL STUDIES:
- Emphasis on Jewish heritage with a blend of world history, American history, and current events
- Thought-provoking learning environment using the principles of cooperative learning and intellectual curiosity, including class discussions, group projects, and the exploration of different themes
JUDAIC STUDIES:
- Character development through experiences with tzedakah, empathy, fairness, respect, and humanity
- Torah study with an emphasis on analyzing themes as well as recognizing and integrating values into daily living
- Instruction in customs and ceremonies, including prayer in synagogues, lifecycle events, and holiday celebrations
HEBREW LANGUAGE:
- Instruction in oral, reading, and written Modern Hebrew language skills.
- Total immersion program using an interactive, cutting-edge curriculum, TAL AM/TAL SELA
- Availability of a Mechina program for students who begin their Hebrew language studies later in their education
ISRAEL STUDIES:
- Development of a commitment, passion, and connection to the Jewish homeland
- Education of modern Israeli culture through weekly visits by Israeli Rishonim
- Integration of Biblical and modern history and geography
TIKKUN OLAM:
- Stressing the importance of healing the world (Tikkun Olam)
- Participation in social action projects in the local community and globally
THE ARTS:
- Development of problem-solving abilities and exploration of creativity.
- Integration of music with the full curriculum through learning to play instruments and performance opportunities for all students
PHYSICAL EDUCATION:
- Improvement of personal health and wellness through physical activity and educational opportunities
- Team and individual sports, with a focus on basic large and small motor skills
TECHNOLOGY:
- Leading-edge technology to support the curriculum, while retaining the core teacher- student relationship
- Instruction in how to use technology responsibly