The spirit of community guides second grade. This is a transition year as the children move toward greater independence and responsibility. We spend time helping them refine the balance between their individual needs and the needs of the group. Second grade is where children figure out their place in the community, experiment with new groups of friends, and form strong friendship bonds. When difficulties arise it gives the children the opportunity to develop their peaceful conflict resolution skills.
Our days are filled with reading workshop, word work, writing workshop, math, thematic studies, and special classes (gym, music, art, computer, science, library, and Spanish). Thematic study is woven throughout the second grade curriculum bringing together literacy skills, speaking and listening skills, social skills, science, and social studies. But we also continue to value play in second grade. We insure the children have time to explore their interests and friendships each and every day.