Specials

Art enriches our students’ lives by fostering creativity, self-expression, and imagination while also building fine motor skills and attention to detail. Students study the work of real artists to learn from their examples and gain inspiration, while also focusing on the fundamentals of art to develop strong skills. Art class promotes cultural awareness by exposing students to diverse artistic traditions and encourages individuality, critical thinking, and joy in the creative process. Each year, students even have the opportunity to be selected for the prestigious ArtFields Competition, showcasing their talent on a larger stage. Ultimately, Art empowers our students to appreciate beauty, think innovatively, and share their creativity with the world.  

We highly value library time for our students—it serves as a gateway to knowledge and imagination. Students not only develop a love for reading but also have the opportunity to explore and select Accelerated Reader books to enjoy and test on. Library class also builds essential research skills, with the librarian collaborating with classroom teachers when students need time for projects or investigations. By exploring diverse genres, cultures, and ideas, students expand their horizons, foster independence, and develop critical thinking. Ultimately, the library cultivates a lifelong appreciation for learning and equips students to become informed, curious, and engaged citizens.

Music helps enrich the lives of our students in numerous ways. Utilizing the Musicplay curriculum, our program fosters creativity and self-expression while also enhancing cognitive skills, including memory, problem-solving, and mathematical abilities. Music class provides opportunities to practice chapel programs and prepare music for plays or performances, fostering discipline, teamwork, and perseverance through group activities. It also sparks a deep appreciation for the arts and cultural diversity while offering a unique outlet for emotional expression. Furthermore, it boosts self-confidence and self-esteem as students gain competence in playing instruments or performing. Ultimately, our Music program empowers students with a lifelong passion for music, enriching their lives and nurturing well-rounded individuals.

Physical Education (P.E.) is fundamental to the overall well-being and development of our students. Using the SparkPE curriculum as our foundation, P.E. promotes fitness, healthy habits, and an active lifestyle from an early age. Students build teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship while enhancing motor skills, coordination, and mental alertness. Our program also incorporates exciting events such as the Turkey Trot, Reindeer Run, Metric Olympics, and Jump Rope for Heart, which encourage community spirit and positive competition. By prioritizing P.E., we support not only the physical health of our students but also their social, emotional, and character growth, contributing to lifelong success and happiness.

Religion plays a significant role in nurturing the moral and ethical development of our students. Beginning in 3rd grade, each child receives a Bible that they will use throughout 6th grade, providing a consistent anchor for their faith journey. Religion class offers a space to explore and understand our faith and traditions while fostering respect for diverse beliefs and promoting tolerance. It imparts valuable life lessons—empathy, compassion, and a sense of community—that help shape well-rounded individuals. Students are also encouraged to engage in self-reflection and clarify their values, equipping them with a strong moral compass to navigate life’s complexities. Ultimately, Religion provides a foundation for ethical decision-making and supports each child’s personal and spiritual growth.

Spanish offers our students a valuable opportunity to become global citizens. Learning a second language, especially Spanish, opens doors to cultural understanding and communication with millions of people worldwide. It promotes diversity, tolerance, and empathy by exposing students to different perspectives and traditions. Additionally, being bilingual is a practical and valuable skill in an increasingly interconnected world. Spanish class not only equips our students with linguistic proficiency but also encourages cognitive development, critical thinking, and problem-solving. It prepares them for a more inclusive future and provides a strong foundation for continued language learning, enriching their personal and academic experiences.

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) equips students with essential skills for success in the 21st century by fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. Our STEM teacher collaborates with classroom teachers to align lessons with the core curriculum—integrating seamlessly with programs such as Frog Street in preschool and extending to science and coding in the upper grades. This approach nurtures curiosity and creativity while building a strong academic foundation. By connecting STEM to real-world challenges, we prepare students to be adaptable learners and future leaders who can make meaningful contributions to society.

Technology class plays a vital role in preparing students for the digital age. All students use Keyboarding Without Tears to strengthen typing skills and the Brittany Washburn Technology Curriculum to build a wide range of digital competencies. The technology teacher also collaborates with classroom teachers to incorporate cross-curricular projects, extending skills into real-world applications. Lessons include creative problem-solving activities, while emphasizing responsible digital citizenship, so students learn to navigate the online world safely and ethically. By providing this strong foundation, Technology empowers students to become confident, capable, and innovative learners ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.