Skip To Main Content

Elementary School

Our Elementary School program focuses on fostering both social-emotional and academic growth, creating a holistic foundation for students' development. Through our daily Morning Meetings, students engage in meaningful conversations, build connections, and celebrate diversity within their classroom communities. These interactions instill confidence and cultivate globally-minded citizens who embody the traits of the IB Learner Profile, such as being Caring, Open-Minded, and Knowledgeable.

 

Curriculum and Teaching Approach

Our Elementary School curriculum is built around developing an inquiry mindset while also laying a strong foundation for literacy and mathematical understanding. We draw from internationally recognized standards, including AERO and Common Core.  Our core program includes instruction in English Reading and Writing, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Science.  Students also attend a daily language class with special subjects of Physical Education, Art, Music, and STEAM (Design and Technology) throughout the week.

Our teaching approach centers on the whole child. Through hands-on, inquiry-based experiences, students are encouraged to ask questions, explore big ideas, and make meaningful connections across subjects. Teachers guide and challenge students through differentiated instruction, small group work, and collaborative learning opportunities. Social-emotional development is woven into daily routines, ensuring that each child feels safe, valued, and ready to learn. We’re not just preparing children for the next grade, we’re instilling the skills reflected in our Vision of an ISK Graduate.  

What makes the Elementary School special?

Daily Morning Meetings

Each day, our elementary learners begin their day with a structured Morning Meeting guided by our Responsive Classroom curriculum.  This intentional start helps build meaningful relationships, supports social-emotional learning, and creates a safe, welcoming environment where every student feels seen, heard, and valued.  Students and teachers come together to 1) greet one another, 2) share news, 3) engage in a short group activity, and 4) review the day ahead.

 

 

Using Assessment to Support Growth

Assessment is an essential part of how we support each child’s learning journey. We use a variety of tools, including classroom observations, reading benchmarks, and standardized assessments like NWEA MAP, to track student progress.  This data helps our teachers identify strengths, monitor growth, and respond early when extra support is needed through our learning support program.  Whether a student needs additional challenges or targeted intervention, our educators use assessment information to tailor instruction and ensure that every learner is progressing with confidence and care.

Character and Academic Development 

Social and emotional development is at the heart of our Elementary School experience. Guided by our HUSSAR values of Honest, Understanding, Sensible, Supportive, Accountable, and Responsible, students learn what it means to be caring, principled members of a community. These values shape daily interactions, guide behavior, and foster a culture of respect and empathy across the school. Each month, we celebrate students who exemplify these traits, recognizing their positive impact on our learning community and reinforcing the importance of character alongside academic growth.