Elementary School
Elementary school is a time of tremendous growth. Students build strong foundations in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies while developing the skills and confidence to become more independent learners. As they progress through the elementary years, they move from learning foundational skills to applying them, thinking more deeply, and preparing for middle school.
Kindergarten
Starting School
Kindergarten is where students build the reading, math, and learning habits they'll use throughout school. Here's what you need to know before your child starts.
When Can My Child Start Kindergarten?
Age requirements vary by state. Use our kindergarten calculator to find out when your child is eligible.
Get Ready for Kindergarten
Tips, activities, and a readiness checklist to help your child feel ready on day one.
Lower Elementary
Building a Strong Foundation
In the early elementary years, students build foundational academic skills while developing curiosity, independence, and confidence as learners.
English Language Arts
Learning to read and write is essential for future success. Students use a systematic phonics approach to develop decoding, fluency, comprehension, grammar, and writing skills through daily practice. They also learn to make connections to texts and apply comprehension strategies as they read.
Math
Students build a strong understanding of addition, subtraction, place value, and other foundational math concepts. Real-life examples and visual models help develop number sense and prepare students for more advanced problem-solving.
Science
Students explore the world around them through observation and investigation. As they study a variety of science topics, they also practice communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.
Social Studies
Students begin exploring geography, economics, communities, and the world around them. These lessons help build awareness, empathy, and an understanding of how people and communities are connected.
Upper Elementary
Growing as Learners
As students move through the upper elementary grades, they build on foundational skills, tackle more complex concepts, and take greater responsibility for their learning.
English Language Arts
Students move from learning to read toward reading to learn. As fluency and comprehension grow, they analyze texts, draw conclusions, strengthen grammar skills, and express increasingly complex ideas through writing.
Math
Students build on their understanding of addition, subtraction, and place value as they learn multiplication, division, fractions, and more advanced concepts. Visual models and real-world problem-solving help develop critical thinking and deeper mathematical understanding.
Science
Students explore life, physical, earth, and space sciences while applying what they learn to real-world questions, technology, and engineering. Along the way, they continue developing communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
Social Studies
Students deepen their understanding of history, government, economics, geography, and cultures. They explore state and U.S. history while making connections between past events, the world today, and communities around the globe.
Advanced Learning
Ready for More?
EXCEL-ERATE gives qualifying K-8 students opportunities for greater academic challenge in English language arts and math. Students may work above grade level and explore concepts in greater depth, and middle school students who qualify can earn high school credit before ninth grade. Students are considered based on test scores and a teacher recommendation.
Character Development
Building Character Through the Elementary Years
As students grow, they begin taking greater responsibility for their choices, relationships, and actions. Through Moral Focus™, elementary students explore a different virtue each month through stories, guided discussions, and lessons built into the school day. Students practice strong character in class, at home, and in their communities, and they're recognized for it along the way.
Wisdom
Respect
Gratitude
Self-Control
Perseverance
Courage
Encouragement
Compassion
Integrity
Beyond the Classroom