ELEMENTARY PROGRAM

Elementary students attend school in two levels. Lower Elementary is a first grade through third grade community, and Upper Elementary is a fourth through sixth grade community. In each level a teacher guides the curriculum with the help of a curriculum support teacher, art teacher, music teacher, several foreign language teachers, a library media specialist, and a physical education teacher.

The elementary Montessori curriculum is perfectly suited to the needs of 6-12 year olds, and is extraordinarily comprehensive. The nature of the child at this age can be described as exuberant and intensely curious. A “let’s go find out” atmosphere prevails as the teacher leads students into individual and small group research projects that relate to the general curriculum.

The “Great Stories” given throughout the elementary years are used as a springboard for learning in an interdisciplinary environment. Each “Great Story” leads to study in several disciplines. Within each discipline, numerous discreet subjects are explored. These stories are intended to spark the imagination of an elementary age child and inspire them to want to know more. Research forms a strong core of classroom work. As students move up to Upper Elementary, life takes on some new challenges. Montessori studies are presented alongside traditional studies. The transition to secondary school is beginning. Students are further engaged in research and, by the sixth grade, work toward a formal exhibition of a semester-long project. Upper Elementary students are responsible for leadership of the student body, and take on a larger role in community service. They collaborate with their teachers in evaluation of their portfolio of work as they take on a greater responsibility for their own efforts. Upper Elementary students enjoy an annual multi-day science trip as one of their field trip experiences. Their work in the sciences is complimented by their membership in the JASON Project, a National Geographic program featuring an award winning curriculum and gated on-line community activities. Aidan’s Elementary program is a great place to learn how to learn in a lasting way, and is excellent preparation for the academic environments of high school and college.