Special Programs
Music
Early Childhood through 6th year students participate in a music program
designed to help children perceive sounds and rhythms, distinguish
the structure of the music through listening, composing and performing;
produce compositions; move or dance to music; reflect and evaluate
performance; and reflect upon music's heritage. The younger children
prepare for and the elementary children play Orff instruments and recorders
as well as dance and sing to music. Occasionally, students hold recitals
at which they play for one another and any parents that are able to attend.
Parents are also welcome to attend music classes with their students
occasionally to enjoy the development of the children.
Band
There is an optional band program for students in grades five and six. Students receive small group lessons on instruments and as they progress are also involved in ensembles and performances.
Physical Education
All ages participate in programs designed to develop physical skills and large and small motor control. Early Childhood students spend time daily in large motor activity. Elementary students have physical education with an instructor and participate in units of study involving jogging, hockey, basketball, baseball, soccer, and other games designed to develop physical skills, cooperation and sportsmanship. Students need a pair of athletic shoes for gym.
Art / Foreign Language / Special Curriculum Programs
Special teachers provide instruction in art techniques to elementary children, students experience more
complex arts and dramatics, and all children are provided with foreign language instruction.
The School offers, as part of its curriculum, Wood County programs such as SAPP (Sexual Abuse Prevention Program). Parents may opt out of this program for their student if they wish. The School also uses materials from a conflict resolution curriculum in the interest of promoting "education for peace." A special focus with older students has been on bullying behaviors and the communication strategies necessary to eliminate them.
Library
The school library is host to a rich assortment of literature for all ages. Students are afforded the opportunity to visit the library during the week. Our youngest students receive visits from the librarian to supplement their extensive, in-class, book collections. Computers are also present to enhance the research efforts of our older children. A separate book collection is available to parents should they desire to research the Montessori philosophy. Lastly, parents are welcome to accompany their children to the library before and after school with the checking out of books being discussed with our librarian prior to their visit.
Outdoor Education Camp
Each year the Upper Elementary class has a three-day educational experience at Camp Willson, a YMCA Camp, near Bellefontaine, Ohio. Working with the Camp Willson staff, our teachers plan a set of learning experiences appropriate to the season and relating to topics studied in the classroom. This is an exciting experience in learning and living together you won't want your student to miss.