Developing the Whole Child

As part of our commitment to providing students with a broad and varied curriculum we believe all students should be exposed to the more creative disciplines. We believe that participation in a creative program encourages children to grow in confidence and self-expression, as well as expand their knowledge and academic horizons

Studio Art

Students are encouraged to express their creativity through weekly art classes taught by a professional Spectra artist. The art teacher serves as facilitator in the exploration of mixed media art through interaction with a variety of mediums and techniques. The emphasis is process-oriented. Individuality and personal interpretation is prioritized through the process and manipulation of materials as opposed to product end-result oriented work (although we proudly display students’ work in the classroom.) Emphasis is on imagination and developing confidence in creative expression.

Drama

Drama forms an integral part of our curriculum and brings an extra dimension to other subjects such as history and language arts. We endeavor to awaken theatrical interests within our students through participation in annual school productions and theater visits. It is not only those with acting ability that benefit from drama, all children are encouraged to participate as a means to building self-confidence and communication skills

Music

Music brings vibrancy to the curriculum and we consider participation to be a vital outlet for our students’ creative expression. Every grade has weekly music instruction from a professional music teacher. They learn to play the recorder in 3rd grade, and the students in grades 4 through 8 get hands on experience with orchestral, band, and modern popular instruments provided by our school. Musical assemblies are performed for parents throughout the year.

School Productions

Students and teachers use the dramatic arts to deepen their understanding of themes, cultures and historical events. Role playing is often used as a spontaneous method of exploring a concept, demonstrating knowledge, expressing creativity, and illustrating social and emotional dynamics in a constructive and safe manner. Students in upper grades are involved in play writing, costuming, character study and set design.