Math
Our
goal in mathematics is for students to develop fluency in basic
computational skills as well as to develop an understanding of
mathematical concepts. We encourage students to use their analytical
thinking skills to problem solve.
Science
The
elementary school science program (FOSS series) focuses on facts,
concepts, principles, and theories organized under the headings of
physical, life, and earth sciences. Students learn essential
investigative and experimental skills that will continue in middle and
high school. In the upper grades, our teachers divide the science units
and team-teach the units. Students learn through hands-on science
activities and record their scientific observations.
Language Arts
The
curriculum for reading and language arts is to develop skills in
phonemic awareness, phonics, decoding, word-attack skills, spelling,
vocabulary, fluency in reading connected text, comprehension skills,
writing skills and strategies, and listening and speaking. Developing
literacy is a key focus area in our academic plan.
History/Social Studies
Students
learn about history, humanities, geography and social sciences from
this subject. Through the lessons, they develop knowledge in cultural
understanding and appreciation, civic values, and rights and
responsibilities as a good citizen.
Art
Art
is an integral part of our school curriculum. The school receives
supplementary arts funds from the District annually to enrich our art
programs. Each grade level chooses an artist-in-residence for a period
of 7-10 weeks in one of the following areas: visual & performing
arts, music and dance, puppetry, story-telling, murals, poetry writing,
etc. Our PTA also provides additional funds to enhance our art programs.
Music
Every
class is involved in the Symphony Education (AIMS) project where
mini-concerts are held at school by various music groups. The project
culminates with every class going to the SF Symphony for a concert.
Also, our school participates in the “Opera A la Carte” program where
3rd-5th grade students audition to perform an opera for the rest of the
school. Second grade is also involved in the Opera Guild’s
“Sing-a-Story” program. Starting in second grade, students can enroll
in Little Kids Rock Program for free after school guitar lessons.
Lessons are taught weekly from two teachers and the principal. All
fourth and fifth graders may also elect to study an instrument of their
choice (violin, trumpet, flute, or clarinet) and take lessons from the
music teacher weekly. Instrumental music and guitar recitals are held in
May annually.
Physical Education
We have two P.E. grants that provide us with a half-time P.E. teacher, brand new equipment, and teacher training. We
aim to help students develop a lifelong commitment to the pleasure and
the health benefits of physical activities. Primary grades also
participate in a four-week world dance program with Mr. Moody, one of
our resident artists.
Technology
Our
school is fully equipped with a computer lab, certified computer
teacher, computer tech paraprofessional, and a computer station in every
classroom.
Garden Education
The
recently planted garden is funded by our PTA and maintained by the
classrooms with help from a volunteer from the SF Ecology Center.
Future plans include class plantings and gardening classes.
Nutrition and Health
Our
school is fortunate to have a nutrition coordinator on staff who does
nutrition lessons with the children, cooking, and field trips to the
Farmer’s
Market. Teachers teach
their own weekly nutrition and health lessons. We also have the Harvest
of the Month program so children can learn about fresh fruits and
vegetables while getting a chance to taste something new each month.
Special Education
We
have one of the largest special education programs in the school
district. About 12 percent of our student population receives special
education services. We offer special day classes for students whose
primary disabilities are in speech and language or orthopedic
impairment. We also have a Full-Inclusion Program, Resource Specialist
Program, speech therapy, physical & occupational therapy for our
students with special needs.
