Photo of elementary play

Elementary

Opportunities are given for the child to cultivate his own desire to learn. Concrete hands-on materials allow the child to independently discover knowledge and joyfully approach learning. Freedom coupled with responsibility allows each child to reach his full potential, enabling the student to master the curricula on an individual basis. Individual and small group lessons encourage the child to move from concrete to abstract understandings.

In the elementary program, the children continue to develop a sense of community based on tolerance and respect. The aim of our program is to further develop the child's level of independence, confidence, concentration, responsibility and self-motivation. Peer mentoring and community outreach activities are encouraged.

The lower and upper elementary classes are ungraded, mixed aged classes. Children in the lower elementary program are 6-9 years of age, and children in the upper elementary program are 9-12 years of age. Assessment measures include the following: portfolios, daily observation, student self-evaluations, progress reports and standardized testing.

 Physical education, computers, Spanish, Orff music, drama and art are a part of the weekly curriculum. The children have both an organized outdoor movement instruction and/or unstructured recess every day. Field trips, swimming, ice-skating, a yearly play and a three night stay at Frost Valley supplement the classroom activities. Children bring their own lunch.

Daily Routine

 The children start the day with independent work from different curricular areas. Afterwards, students focus on character education and values through morning group meetings. Then, with guidance from trained Montessori teachers, the students receive individual and small group lessons. The students also enjoy an unstructured recess time followed by lunch. Afternoons include a variety of special subjects including: computers, Spanish, physical education, music, art and drama, as well as group presentations related to the cultural curriculum.

Curriculum

The Elementary program is comprehensive, including the following curricular areas:

Language

Our language program fosters literacy, creates writers and develops confident public speakers. Areas of study include:

Math

Our math program develops the mathematical mind though hands-on materials that allow the child to discover knowledge. Emphasis is placed on the practical applications of math with a focus on problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Cultural

Our cultural curriculum provides a framework to understand the larger concepts while doing activities to master fine details. This cosmic curriculum provides a unique approach to the cultural curriculum, allowing the child to make meaningful connections and utilize critical thinking skills. These engaging learning experiences not only answer the many “Why?” questions children have at this age, but also spark their imagination. Cultural subjects include the following:

Peace Curriculum

Our peace curriculum allows the child to realize his self-worth and the importance of being part of a community of caring children. Each child is supported in reaching his potential through a variety of lessons and activities which promote the following:

Special Events

Orientation

This is an introductory meeting between students and teachers to introduce children to the classroom on the Friday before the first week of school.

Back to School Night

This night begins in Albers Hall where parents will be greeted by Ms. Albers and introduced to the Albrook staff. Parents then return to their child's classroom where they are updated on the procedures and events of the coming year.

Fun Fair

This family event has activities that include face painting, jewelry making, games, and delicious food. Come and meet other families from Albrook in a relaxed, fun atmosphere.

Parent Day

This is an opportunity for one parent to come into the classroom and work with his or her child.

Ice-Skating

The physical education program is complemented by a series of ice-skating lessons at Mennen Arena in the fall.

DJ Night

This evening event allows the elementary students an opportunity to enjoy the company of their friends while dancing.

Class Trips

The students go on outings to supplement their studies in the classroom, visiting a variety of historical sights, museums and performances.

International Day

This is a school wide event to celebrate the cultures of the world through song, dance and music.

Grandparent's Day

Grandparents are invited to come into the classroom and spend an hour with their grandchild. Children have an opportunity to share their work and friends with their grandparents.

Swimming

The physical education program is complemented by a series of swimming lessons at Berkeley Aquatics in the spring.

Music Recitals

Using Orff instruments, recorders and singing, the students showcase their musical talents via a winter and summer recital. Both traditional music and music from around the world are featured at the recitals.

Dramatic Performances

Each year, elementary students perform in a full-scale musical theater production on the Albrook stage. Additionally, various drama projects connected to the curricula are presented throughout the school year.

Frost Valley

At the end of the school year, the children enjoy a sleepover camp experience with their teachers and classmates for 3 days and 2 nights at Frost Valley YMCA camp in the Catskill Mountains . This is a wonderful opportunity for children to further develop their sense of independence while cultivating a love of nature and a sense of stewardship. Classes at Frost Valley are designed to build community, develop trust, expand environmental knowledge, improve self-esteem, and challenge each child to reach his potential.

Nature Presentations 

A variety of environmental educators are invited to share their expertise and bring in real animals and specimens to complement the science curricula throughout the year.

 

 

Albrook students at pond