Our Academic Approach

Storytelling is used to awaken imagination, build vocabulary and oral language, retain attention and teach subjects such as math, history, geography, social studies, writing and reading.

Respect for the natural world and environmental stewardship are core values. We are building an edible schoolyard gardening program.

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Children learn real-life tasks such as housekeeping, cooking, knitting, crocheting, and gardening.

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Technology is de-emphasized in the early years at school and at home. Parents of enrolled children are encouraged to greatly limit their children's exposure to computers, TV, and video games.

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Mandarin instruction begins in first grade and continues through the grades. Our students are taught not only the Mandarin language, but also the culture, and they participate in seasonal festivities from Mandarin speaking nations each year.

Students stay with their cohort from 1st-8th grade and build strong relationships.

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Every child sings daily with their class teacher. Music instruction begins in first grade, when the pentatonic flute is introduced. The students progress to the recorder and finally to strings beginning in fourth grade.

Main lessons include all traditional subjects and are typically taught in 3 to 4 week blocks, which allows for depth of instruction and enriching activities.

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Seasonal stories, songs, and festivals are woven through the curriculum. Festivals bring the school community together in celebration. The Festival of Courage announces autumn, the Winter Spiral brightens the dark winter months, and May Day heralds spring.