Lower Elementary

Lower Elementary is a dynamic multi-aged classroom for first, second, and third graders.

The Montessori Lower Elementary curriculum inspires students to become independent learners who appreciate and understand their world. Integrated studies provide students with unique and age-appropriate materials that help them become accountable for their use of time, accuracy in their work, and evaluation of their strengths and areas for growth.

Throughout the year, Lower Elementary students are presented the Great Lessons. These lessons give students a big picture of Earth’s history as a catalyst for learning and imagination, providing a sense that “all things are part of the universe, and are connected to form one whole unity” – Maria Montessori. The first Great Lesson presents the idea of the beginning of the universe from a current scientific point of view of Earth’s geology while honoring perspectives from indigenous and religious cultures. Successive Great Lessons include the Timeline of Life, Early Civilizations, Language and Writing, and Mathematics provide a foundation of understanding of our world and provide the seed of curiosity for our students to ask great questions and find their answers.

Our students enjoy individualized work plans to allow them to use time effectively and make appropriate choices. Students work with hands-on materials while building a foundation to develop abstract concepts with time to think and express themselves in all subjects.
Students learn different research methods to complete reports and presentations on a variety of topics. Planned field trips are known as “Going Out,” and visitors to our classroom support related areas of study.

Montessori teachers are trained to reach each child where they are and provide family support.