Elementary Program

Salmonberry Grades Overview

The Salmonberry Elementary program is a holistic school for children 6-10 years old. The program uses an integrated thematic approach to provide meaningful learning experiences to the class’ multi-age learners. Students are offered a strong academic program, which is designed to meet the unique needs and learning styles of each child. The student/teacher ratio is low, and the learning community is intimate and nurturing. Attention to children’s social and emotional growth and development are important pieces of Salmonberry’s elementary program.

Salmonberry elementary uses a thematic approach to shape its studies. Each unit of study integrates many disciplines; including language arts, mathematical investigations, science, movement, dance, sports and games, art, cooking and other crafts. Occasional guest instructors enrich the program. Frequent local and off-island field trips enhance learning and reinforce the idea that authentic learning does not happen only within the classroom under the direction of the teacher. Each day includes a balance of quiet activities and more boisterous gross motor experiences. Classroom time includes student choice activities and those that are teacher led. Students engage in individual, small group and whole group work.

We believe that students must possess basic academic skills, learn to be excellent readers and writers, and be proficient mathematical thinkers and problem solvers. Students work individually or in small groups as they learn and practice discrete skills and gain knowledge. Skills lessons are thematically integrated whenever possible. We emphasize a constructivist approach in math and a whole language approach in language arts.

Teachers maintain very high expectations for students in all areas. Students are challenged to do their best. This is reflected in behavioral expectations, social awareness, and working for academic excellence.

On a regular basis, teachers give students and parents feedback regarding children’s progress. Parents receive narrative progress summaries twice each year. Progress is further documented by collections of work samples and portfolios. Teachers and students work hard together to identify key elements in the learning process and value each step and approximation towards an excellent final product.

As a family anticipates separation from Salmonberry, either through graduation or for individual reasons, the parents are strongly encouraged to enter into dialogue with the teacher regarding the student’s future education. The teacher will work with the family to articulate and pursue specific goals to ensure readiness for subsequent placement. A Salmonberry graduate should be extremely well prepared for public, private or home school. He or she will have strong, skills, self-knowledge, social awareness, a sense of genuine caring and a strong capacity to see connections, understand meaning and pursue passions.