To give students a strong start in math and build their confidence, our elementary curriculum uses two effective methods: Singapore Math and engaging Math Routines.

Building Deep Understanding with Singapore Math: This research-based approach helps students truly grasp the underlying principles of math, moving beyond mere memorization of rules. Students learn the “why” behind the “how” of math through a three-step process: concrete, pictorial, and abstract learning. They explore math concepts using hands-on activities, visual models, and real-world applications. This step-by-step method helps them truly understand numbers and build strong problem-solving skills that will last. Students will also learn to visualize problems and connect math to their everyday lives.

Developing Flexible Thinking with Math Routines (MitC): Alongside Singapore Math, we incorporate engaging Math Routines. Math Routines reinforce mathematical flexibility and reasoning by encouraging students to approach problems in multiple ways. Through real-life contexts, collaborative discussions, and open-ended investigations, students develop a sense of number relationships, strategic thinking, and confidence in tackling complex problems. This approach also emphasizes the use of visual models and representations, helping students make connections between different strategies and deepen their understanding of mathematical concepts.

At the elementary level, our reading and writing program is built on foundational strategies that support the development of confident, capable readers and writers.

Syllabic Method: The syllable method is a method that starts teaching reading at the beginning by presenting words that have been arranged into syllables. The syllables are arranged into the last word, stringing the words into sentences.  When the reader breaks the words into syllables or smaller units it develops their syllabic analysis. For example, /mitochondria/ can be divided into /mi/-/to/-/chon/-/dri/-/a/, all identifiable syllables for a beginning reader. By breaking the word apart the student can correctly pronounce a difficult word.  This helps our emergent readers to be able to string together sounds to make meaning from the words they are deciphering.

Writer’s Workshop: In Writer’s Workshop, we utilize a framework that is crafted to teach writing using repetitive steps. Writing time for each day is broken down into 3 main components: mini lesson, writing time, and sharing. It is a consistent method in the classroom that helps to introduce, practice, and improve writing skills for the students.  For the mini lesson, the teacher offers direct instruction to the whole class on a specific writing skill. This may include topics such as crafting a great lead, using proper punctuation, adding details to a story, or building story suspense. The students go on to practice this skill independently and then share their work orally either in small groups or with the whole class.  

There are 3 types of writing we focus on: opinion writing, expository writing, and narrative writing. The framework is the same for all writing topics, so the students learn to build good writing skills no matter the writing style they’re working on. Checklists and rubrics tailored to each writing topic help students to stay on track and identify where they are in their writing process. Teachers confer with students along the way to observe their progress and give precise feedback. Students can then create writing goals to aid them in their writing progression over the course of the school year.

Elementary school’s French and English teachers teach together to help students build bridges between the two languages. Through the MAK method developed by Marianne Verbuyt, students will take the time to study the structure of each language and compare them. Marianne Verbuyt’s method includes visual tools to make this learning process easier, more engaging, and more effective. With this well-designed and thoughtful approach for syntax, punctuation, and prosody, the students develop a stronger mastery of both French and English.

Strong speaking skills are a cornerstone of our elementary curriculum because we know that when children can express themselves confidently, it enriches their reading and writing abilities. Students have numerous exciting opportunities to hone these skills and shine as speakers.

For example, they’ll participate in:

• Bilingual Language Workshops: Designed to target and strengthen oral communication skills in both French and English.

• Bilingual Oral Presentations (starting in 1st grade): Students have frequent opportunities to present their projects bilingually throughout the year, often during classroom presentations, special events, and family-invited showcases. The 5th Grade Exit Project celebrates this development, as students choose a topic of interest and independently conduct research, write an analysis, and deliver a bilingual presentation in French and English before teachers, peers, and parents.

• Theatrical Performances: Through our yearly End-of-Year Show and other student theatrical opportunities, students develop their expressive speaking and presentation skills.

• Model United Nations (UN) Club: An opportunity to research global issues, articulate arguments, and develop public speaking skills.

• Elected Participation in Student Council: Empowering students to effectively convey their ideas and represent their peers.

• Eco-Delegates elections, workshops, and other initiatives.

The Elementary School Science curriculum blends units of study from the French and American systems. Science classes are taught bilingually with both a French and an English classroom teacher delivering instruction together.  In the upper grades (4th and 5th) a trained American science teacher works with the French classroom teacher to plan and carry out science instruction.  

The science curriculum aims to foster excitement and enthusiasm for discovery and concept building. The scientific method, questioning, observation, and data collection are utilized to investigate relevant, age-appropriate science concepts. Students often work in groups to foster skills of collaboration and communication. In the older grades, project-based learning is also used to delve deeper into topics. Projects might include designing and building structures such as a sustainable school, a working water wheel, and a water filtration system. The 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals are woven into the curriculum to prepare students to become active citizens in our interconnected world.