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Key Features of our Elementary Program:

  • Project-based field trips
  • —Author events
  • —Student author celebrations (present own work)
  • —Flag-raising duties (Grade 2)
  • —Handwriting Without Tears
  • —Social skills groups
  • —Talent show
  • —Field Day

    • "During our daughter's seven years at River, the small classes enabled the amazing teachers to work with her one-on-one to ensure she was challenged, constantly learning and having fun." —Robin Moore

    Mother of 2012 Falcon graduate.

    Elementary Curriculum at The River School

    The core mission of The River School's Elementary Program is to instill a love of learning in our students. We follow a blended and balanced approach, with differentiation as a natural part of the learning experience. Our educators are trained in a wide range of programs and have access to many resources, allowing for a customized approach for each class and student.

    As with our Preschool Program, every class has a master's level educator and speech language pathologist to create a co-teaching model unique to The River School. Our "Specials" teachers and graduate-level interns studying various disciplines round out the teaching team.

    Academic goals are achieved through a thematic curriculum, where students delve into math, science, language, and literacy. In every classroom, children start exploring subjects through dramatic play, sensory tables, math tools, reading, and experimentation.

    Themes are student-directed, and this classroom structure:

    • Taps students' imaginations and interests
    • Integrates math, literacy, language arts, writing and science lessons
    • Requires collaboration and cooperation
    • Builds problem-solving skills

    We follow a project-based approach in order to:

    • Provide opportunities for exploration and inquiry
    • Practice abstract reasoning
    • Promote conceptual understanding
    • Encourage critical thinking
    • Challenge students to become problem-solvers
    • Undertake rich and complex studies

    As students move through our program, projects become more complex and engaging. The level of research, writing and critical thinking increases in each grade as they work collaboratively to answer questions and share knowledge.

    In addition to robust academic preparation, River's safe, caring environment shapes healthy self-esteem, celebrates individuality and invites self-reflection. Children graduate River with a clear, distinct voice, inspired to become leaders, global citizens, but most importantly, change agents.

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