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Curriculum The Almaden Country School curriculum has been specifically designed to meet and exceed California and national academic standards, while providing the flexibility needed to serve different learning styles. Teachers from all departments have mapped their curriculum together, creating interdisciplinary connections among different subject areas so that students see what they learn in a larger, real-life context. In addition, our faculty coordinates the curriculum across grade levels so that students enjoy continuity in their learning. The curriculum also correlates directly with the school’s Expected School-wide Learning Results, ensuring that our students are not just covering material, but developing lifelong skills and other key attributes. |
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Academics 8:00am–11:00am, Monday-Friday or 12:00pm–3:00pm, Tuesday–Thursday Jr. Kindergarten (Age 5 by December 2): 8:00am–11:00am or 12:00pm–3:00pm, Monday-Friday Kindergarten (Age 5 by September 1): 8:00am–12:30pm, Monday-Friday At Almaden Country School, we are dedicated to providing a child-centered environment where children learn with joy. We focus on each child as an individual who is accepted and valued, while encouraging the child’s development in small and large groups. The early childhood curriculum is a developmental program based on a sequence of skills. It is concerned with the development of the whole child, emphasizing social, intellectual, emotional, and physical growth. Learning takes place through a hands-on, multi-sensory approach at each level — we hear, we see, we say, we do. Children learn to work, play, and share with others, developing self-esteem through a variety of meaningful experiences. The early childhood experience provides a strong foundation for future academic and social growth. Click on the downloadable PDF for our Early Childhood Education curriculum outline. Click here for a PDF of our Kindergarten Readiness document.
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Grades 1-5: 8:00am–3:00pm, Monday-Friday At Almaden Country School, we focus on each child as an individual who is accepted and valued. We offer continuity and consistency across a curriculum designed to develop the whole child. The elementary curriculum is made up of the Foundation Program for grades 1–3, and the Intermediate Program for grades 4 and 5. In addition to the basic subjects of language arts, mathematics, and social studies, all Elementary School grades take classes in art, science, physical education, music, and drama, taught by specialist teachers. French is included, starting in the second grade. Direct teaching occurs at all grade levels, and a multi-sensory approach is used whenever possible to accommodate all types of learners. The use of technology is integrated with the curriculum as appropriate. Language/arts is taught through SRA/Open Court’s “Collections For Young Scholars”, and the SRA “Math Explorations and Applications” program is the base for teaching mathematics. Children studying mathematics at all levels are actively involved in thinking skills, problem-solving strategies and real-life applications that enable them to develop a thorough understanding of the material. A systematic reading instruction program, balances phonics and authentic literature with explicit skills instruction. Decoding and encoding skills, comprehension strategies, and a broad range of writing and language skills are thoroughly taught. Individualization is carried out through flexible grouping based on needs observed during direct teaching. The elementary years provide a strong foundation for future academic and social growth. We are dedicated to providing an environment in which students explore and research ideas, develop higher-level thinking skills, and become independent, self-directed, joyful learners. Click on the downloadable PDF for our Elementary School curriculum outline. |
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Grades 6-8: 8:00am–3:00pm, Monday-Friday The middle school years at Almaden Country School are focused on developing the full potential of each student in preparation for high school. The curriculum provides a core of strong academics, balanced by a broad selection of multi-age elective courses. The school day consists of seven fifty-minute periods with five core subjects — English language/literature, mathematics, social studies, science, and physical education — along with two elective courses. The Homework Center is available for quiet study after school on four days each week. An open channel of communication between parents and teachers is vital to student success. One tool we use to facilitate communication is Teacher Ease, our web-based student grade book. Teacher Ease allows parents and students instant and up-to-date access to their academic progress and allows direct communicate with teachers about specific class work. Throughout middle school, superior teachers enthusiastically share their areas of expertise with students, challenging them to become critical thinkers and problem-solvers, and to experience the joy of life-long learning. Middle school students enjoy diverse extracurricular activities. After-school athletics and intramural sports promote the values of sportsmanship and camaraderie. Leadership and school spirit is encouraged through the ‘Block C’ service club and ‘Big Buddy’ programs. Individual talents are able to develop through participation in performing arts and band. Friendships and social interaction are encouraged through many fun activities, and teacher-chaperoned overnight field trips are offered each year. Our middle school students are recognized for their unique gifts and talents in an atmosphere of mutual respect. A dynamic curriculum, the support of nurturing teachers, and a warm spirit of friendship result in happy, self-confident, well-prepared young men and women who are ready for the world of high school and beyond! Click on the downloadable PDF for our Middle School curriculum outline. |
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