Academics
Academics by Grade
Explorers in the Classroom
Our Integrated Curriculum
Our students engage deeply in the subject area content and grade-level standards in the context of real-world issues. We have created an interdisciplinary curriculum that incorporates science and social studies content into the English language arts and math curriculum. Our research-based approach makes learning more engaging and meaningful. Here are some things to know:
- Our interdisciplinary curriculum fully meets all New York State and NYCDOE grade-level standards for English language arts, math, science, and social studies. It is a coordinated curriculum that spans all grade levels.
- We use a hands-on, inquiry-based approach called Project-Based Learning (PBL). Students engage deeply with content through in-depth themed units that culminate in a final project.
- Our PBL units and service learning projects support development of critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and creativity along with essential academic skills.
- In addition to the core academic areas, students have art, music and gym classes. Grades 3 – 5 have art and/or music three times per week.
Learning Through Service
Our service learning projects set our school apart and prepare our students to be leaders in their communities and the world! Each student completes five service learning projects each year. These projects integrate academics, critical thinking, creativity, and leadership skills as students work together to answer questions, solve real-world problems, and raise funds for local and global causes. Each project begins with “Guiding Questions” that support inquiry-based learning and connect to our academic curriculum.
Collaborative Learning
Believe in the Creatures of the Deep Blue Sea
Our World Counts
Respect the Rainforest
It’s a Doggy Dog World
Exploring the Schoolyard
Reteach and Enrich
Each day, students receive individualized instruction and support through our Reteach and Enrich program.
- Two sessions a day (one for math and one for English language arts) are devoted to providing additional support for students who need help mastering grade-level standards or enrichment activities for students needing extra challenge.
- Students are grouped according to their needs based on formative assessment data collected in the classroom.
- Teachers work together to plan reteaching and enrichment between classes and across grades.
Technology
We have a technology-enriched curriculum to support learning and help students develop important technology skills.
- Students have access to laptops or iPads in the classroom through our 1:1 technology initiative.
- Teachers integrate apps and programs such as Google Slides, Chatterpix, Popplet, and Scratch Junior to support and enhance learning.
- Classrooms are equipped with smartboards to support interactive, technology-based instruction.
- Our Maker Space Engineering Room is equipped with technology, craft supplies, and recycled materials to promote hands-on learning.
- All students receive additional instruction in computer skills on a rotating basis during recess time.
Quick Links
Academic Support
We offer a full range of Special Education (SPED) services for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and English for New Learners (ENL) services for students learning English as a second language. Students needing SPED or ENL services will have accommodations in the classroom to ensure that they are able to meet grade-level standards. We also provide academic support for any student struggling to master the standards. Your child’s teachers will work with you to identify your child’s needs and make sure they are getting the help they need to be successful.
After School Enrichment Programs
We offer an after-school enrichment program to provide students with additional opportunities to explore STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) activities in a fun, informal setting.
- Students meet after school one time per week for eight weeks. There are two sessions, one in the fall semester and one in the spring semester.
- Students engage in a variety of STEAM projects, which have included coding, book making, dance, and digital arts, among others.
- The program is free, but enrollment is limited. Contact Ms. Tonne at dtonne@schools.nyc.gov for information.
