Upper Elementary
As children grow, so does their understanding of the world around them. Upper Elementary is a time for deeper thinking, stronger friendships, growing independence, and discovering how their ideas and actions can make a difference.
Learning to Think
The big questions introduced in Lower Elementary continue to grow right alongside the children! In Upper Elementary, students take a closer look at our world, exploring history, culture, current events, social issues, and our responsibility to the environment and one another.
They begin to look beyond their immediate surroundings, consider different perspectives, ask thoughtful questions, and develop their own ideas about the world.
Our curriculum also continues to build strong skills in language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, with learning aligned to Illinois academic standards.
Building Independence, Flexibility, and Resilience
Our Upper Elementary program serves children ages 9–12 (the traditional fourth through sixth grades) in a multi-age classroom. Building on the foundation established in Lower Elementary, students take on greater responsibility for their learning and begin to work with more independence and confidence.
Our Montessori teachers serve as guides, helping students set goals, follow their interests, work through challenges, and discover new possibilities. Whether working independently or alongside classmates, children learn to manage their time, make thoughtful decisions, and keep going when something doesn't come easily.
It's a time when children begin to realize that learning isn't just about finding the right answer – it's about figuring things out along the way.
Learning in Context for Deeper Understanding
In Upper Elementary, learning becomes increasingly connected to the world beyond the classroom. Rather than treating each subject as a separate piece, students explore how ideas in science, history, geography, language, and mathematics connect to one another.
Through hands-on activities, research, experiments, discussions, and collaborative projects, students develop the skills to ask questions, gather information, think critically, and communicate their ideas.
Whether they're investigating a scientific question, exploring a historical event, or working through a real-world problem, students are encouraged to look deeper, think creatively, and make connections that give their learning meaning.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Some of the best learning happens outside the classroom! Upper Elementary students enjoy opportunities throughout the year to put their learning into action, build friendships, and experience the world together.
From local field trips and volunteer opportunities to a week-long adventure at Nature's Classroom in Wisconsin, students develop confidence, independence, and a stronger sense of community.
They also look forward to traditions like our musical, and opportunities to share their talents, work together, and celebrate all they've learned.
