First grade is an intricate year in a child's educational career. It is a time of development and discovery. First grade children go from reviewing the twenty-one kindergarten words and counting to ten to reading on their own. They are also adding and subtracting in double digits.

Through a variety of approaches, reading is a priority. Phonics and whole-language methods are combined with the 4-Block Program and 4 Square Writing program to instill a love for reading while laying the foundation of essential reading skills.

First graders enjoy thematic learning including a Native American unit, plants and animals, oceans, planets, geography, maps and graphs, health and nutrition, historic biographies and social skills.

Manipulatives are incorporated into daily mathematics along with problem solving experiences. Math Their Way principals are utilized.

In the first grade years, you can expect:

• Standard-based Curriculum

• 4 Square Writing Program

• FOSS Hands-on Science studying balance/motion and pebbles, sand, and silt

• Participating in the 4 Block Program/Learning in social studies from world geography to Native American culture

• Supporters of Operation City Beautiful

• A drug free walk

• Making Young Author books including the writing and illustrations.

• Music, Study Skills, Library, Gym, Officer Friendly Program