First Grade represents, for many children, the year in which they become active readers.  For many students, the teaching of reading in first grade is a primary focus.  At our school, many of our students enter first grade with the ability to decode and read fluently.  For this reason, our children receive instruction according to their assessed capabilities.  Reading from both anthologies and ‘chapter’ books, our first grade students excel in their ability to read for information.  If a child is not yet at this level, our teachers are highly trained to provide them with the skills necessary to know letter sounds, to decode, and to emerge as readers!  Our differentiated instruction builds the confidence in each child to be successful, no matter his or her abilities!

Coupled with the appropriate teaching of reading skills is the ability to help children effectively communicate, both orally and through writing.  Our children can be seen writing daily, talking about their writing, proud of their work!

Math instruction in first grade allows our children to continue their acquisition of the skills necessary for strong understanding of addition and subtraction of whole numbers; they learn more about measurement and the many applications for thier learning; they explore and learn beyond grade level standards, as appropriate for the child!

Our teachers continue the tradition of a loving and caring environment as they create their lessons to integrate science and social studies into their teaching.  Children have the opportunity to read and research information that interests them.  They visit and check out books from our expanding library; the specialty classes continue to offer a well-rounded exposure for a child’s foundational years.

Our first grade classes are staffed at a 1:21 ratio!  Again, we know the importance of a small class size and the impact on a child’s environment for his or her opportunities to learn.