Curriculum

"One test of the correctness of educational procedure is the happiness of the child." - Maria Montessori

Elevate Community School implements an innovative approach to education in the lowcountry. Based in Montessori methods, Elevate Community School also incorporates elements of Waldorf and Reggio Emilia. With a focus on kindness and community, we teach our children how to become respectful citizens of the world.

Math

Our approach to math is very much in line with the Montessori approach. We begin with basic concrete lessons, moving to the more abstract as children advance. In our classroom, you can expect to see a variety of math materials and processes being performed including: counting using manipulatives, addition and subtraction with and without counters, multiplication, division, fractions, geometry, beginning algebra and more.

Language Arts

Our language arts program begins with letter knowledge and symbol-sound connection. We encourage students to begin writing and exploring language as these connections begin to solidify. With a strong foundation in letter knowledge, we continue with a robust phonics program which aligns with the Orton-Gillingham approach to explicit phonemic awareness, phonics, and fluency practice. Walking into our classroom, one should expect to see students engaged in a variety of language arts activities including storytelling, reading, writing, manipulation using the moveable alphabet, letter practice, and more.

Science

Science education is often overlooked in the early elementary classroom, where only the most basic concepts are explored infrequently. Children are naturally drawn to science through their innate curiosity of the world around them. This is why we include a robust science curriculum in our classroom. Through our units, we explore scientific concepts for several weeks moving more in depth everyday. Children are encouraged to observe and experiment with what they are learning throughout the day. Past units have included Entomology, Ornithology, Botany, Human Anatomy and more.

Social Studies/Geography

It is important for children to learn about the world in which they live, which is why we include instruction in geography and social studies in our curriculum. Our program will include the study of maps, land forms, cultures around the world, and more. Our instruction will help children understand their place in the world and the importance of acceptance through the study of people and practices that are different from what they have been exposed to in their own environment.

Art & Music

Art and music education are not seen as "specials" at Elevate, but rather as an integral part of the curriculum. Throughout the course of the year, students will learn to identify musical instruments by their sound, identify classical music composers, create beautiful watercolor paintings, knit projects with yarn, and more.

Kindness & Community

Everyday at Elevate, we focus time on educating our students about kindness, peace, and the importance of community. Through role playing, storytelling, and practical life experiences, students will discover the joys of helping others in need.

Outdoor Education

Elevate Community School incorporates outside learning into every day curriculum. Students should be prepared for lots of walking, climbing, and jumping - in rain or shine. We believe in the importance of outdoor play and provide ample time for children to explore, encouraging their natural curiosity, challenging their physical stamina, and allowing their hands to get dirty.