Curriculum
Curriculum
It is of primary importance that FCS children come away with the feeling that they can make a difference in the world. Our goals for the children are that they:
- be active participants in their own learning, through exploration of home, school, and community;
- acquire all the skills necessary to enhance their interaction with the world, including both academic and practical life skills;
- have the courage to take risks without worrying about failure;
- develop a positive self-image;
- develop a sense of responsibility for contributing to their world;
- respect and appreciate individual differences;
- strive to be peace makers;
- and, acquire a life-long love of learning.
We recognize that children learn and grow at different rates. To help each child grow, we integrate individual responsibility and choice-making into the learning process. We teach our children in small classes so that we can guide and inspire each child. We emphasize first-hand experimentation with materials, believing that this is how children learn best.
We create a safe environment where children celebrate success and know that learning happens from failure as well as from success.
To implement the Quaker commitment to non-violence, we train students, staff and parents in creative conflict resolution.
Children love to learn. We provide a challenging atmosphere where children can be excited about learning. Emphasis is placed on the intellectual, creative, social, spiritual, and physical development of each child. We are concerned with the growth of the whole child. We respect different development stages and honor the process of moving from one to another.
Children are placed in multi-age classrooms to accommodate a variety of social needs. A system of overlapping classes provides opportunity for children to be leaders as well as followers.
In Language Arts , reading is individualized and a writing workshop method is used. Finished written works are celebrated and, starting in early grades, children give brief oral reports. Mathematics explores materials and patterning, with the Everyday Math program and other written texts. Social Studies provides unique opportunities for experiential learning through overnight and field trips. Wide-ranging Science topics span all grades and often include an appreciation for the beauty and majesty of nature.
In Art we encourage creative expression, making sure that efforts are met with sensitivity, respect and caring. Additional hours of Illustrator Studies are provided that reinforce art techniques, appreciation for the creations of others, and the connection between art, reading and writing.
Music is taught to all classes and may include playing on recorder, electronic keyboard, or other instruments. Reading and writing music are included as well.
The Spanish language is intruduced in kindergarten with a playful approach and continues through the grades. Vocabulary, reading and writing are included, but emphasis is on oral communication.
Physical Education classes teach coordination, rhythm and game skills with an emphasis on teamwork and cooperation.