Elementary Program
Montessori Borealis
Lower and upper elementary program
The Montessori elementary classrooms are multi-grade (1/2/3 and 4/5/6) and children generally remain with the same teacher for three years. This gives teachers and families an opportunity to get to know each other well, develop community, and work together from one year to the next. The elementary classroom is designed for children to work with those who are older and younger. Children have the opportunity to be leaders and followers, to both teach and learn, and to socialize with children of different ages.
The day is organized around an uninterrupted 3-hour “Great Period”, during which children focus on academic subjects. Children plan and select their work and the order in which their work will be done, while the teacher provides guidance and presents lessons. Children as young as 1st grade are encouraged to research subjects that interest them. They may go out on child-organized field trips to enhance their areas of study. Depending on the subject and the child, the result of this exploration may take the form of a research paper, map, poster, science experiment, art or other projects.
P.E., recess, silent reading, and other aspects of the elementary school day are scheduled after the Great Period. Lunch is eaten family-style in the classroom. Art, drama, vocal and instrumental music is integrated into the child’s day.
Optional Program of the Juneau School District
Grades 1 – 6
Multi-grade classrooms: 1-3 and 4-6
Children work at their own pace
Extended, uninterrupted work periods allow children to concentrate and complete work.
Rigorous academics and mindful social interaction.
Regular outdoor activities connect students to the place in which they live.
Integrated visual and performing arts.Small and supportive learning community.
Appropriate for children of all academicachievement levels.
Montessori-trained teachers abide by the standards of the Association Montessori Internationale (AMI)