The elementary instructional program includes the following subject areas:

• Language arts (reading, writing, listening, and speaking)
• Mathematics
• Science
• Social Studies
• Music—Students in Grades 1-6 receive two 30-minute music classes each week. Kindergarten students have music instruction for one 30-minute period per week.
• Health
• Physical Education—Two 30-minute physical education classes per week are scheduled for students in Grades 1-6. All students are expected to participate unless a doctor’s note is submitted. Children need gym shoes that can be tied or Velcro closed with non-marking soles. Slip-ons and platform-style shoes are unsafe for running and gym activities. 
• Art—Students in Grades 1-6 participate in one 60-minute art class every week. The elements of art and principles of design are taught using a variety of media.

Resources
The following resources are available in support of or in addition to the instructional programs listed above:

• Learning Resource Center (library)
• Technology
• Video Studio
• Band/Orchestra—Fifth- and sixth-grade students may join band or orchestra. Lessons are provided weekly during the school day. Rehearsals are held before school.
• Chorus—Chorus is a school-sponsored club that may be available for students in Grades 5 and 6. 
• Intramurals—Fifth- and sixth-grade students are eligible to participate in intramurals. Signature forms needed to participate in intramurals are available through the intramural program coordinator or PE teacher at your child’s school.

Students are supported, as appropriate, by:

• Student Services Team
• School Social Worker
• School Psychologist
• School Nurse

Student support programs include:

• Gifted and Talented Services
• Reading Interventions
• Special Education Programs
• English Language Learners

Homework Guidelines

Homework extends and reinforces classroom learning, provides skills practice, and helps students prepare and review for lessons and tests. It is also a way to help parents stay informed about what their child is learning, and it helps children develop good discipline and responsibility.

We encourage families to consider the importance of setting aside a specific time and place for children to do their homework. Parents should check their child’s understanding of assignments and review directions together if necessary. If there is a special problem, contact the child’s teacher.

The following guidelines for suggested amounts of time to be spent on homework may be helpful:

• Kindergarten—10 minutes per day
• First and Second Grade—20 minutes per day
• Third Grade—30 minutes per day
• Fourth Grade—30-40 minutes per day
• Fifth and Sixth Grade—45-60 minutes per day

Reading for pleasure at home is important. Children should set aside daily time for recreational reading in addition to homework time. You may wish to establish a family reading time. 

Classroom teachers occasionally plan educational trips to extend and enhance curriculum studies. Children must have a signed parental permission form to participate in these trips. The field trip form also provides space for parent permission for children who need medication while on the field trip.

Field trips are an important part of the educational program, and all students should participate in them if possible. Students who do not turn in signed permission forms and fees by the deadline may be unable to participate and may be assigned to another classroom for the day.

Student behavior expectations are the same for field trips as they are for the classroom. If there is a significant concern about a student’s ability or willingness to behave appropriately on a trip, there is the possibility that participation could be contingent on the parent accompanying the child. Parents of children who have severe allergies or other medical conditions may also be asked to accompany their children on field trips to ensure the child’s safety.