Enrichment Programs
Dr. Montessori wrote of the development of human potential. School in the Hills provides an environment that contains everything a student needs for their total development. Enrichment classes and curriculum vary based on program level. Below is a sample of classes incorporated for Toddler, Primary, and/or Elementary students.
Toddler Program Enrichment
Music
Learning music is fun when children match pitch and rhythm using hand shapes and move to musical cues. Matching pitch and rhythm using hand shapes are the fundamental building blocks for future instrumentation and music literacy.
Español
Toddlers start learning the basics of a second language through fun and engaging activities. A multi-sensory approach utilizes songs, puppets, stories, and realia. Children learn to associate words and sounds with specific actions. This experience helps commit the learning to memory and develop an “ear” for the Spanish language through practice, repetition, and sound recognition.
Primary Program Enrichment
Music
We build from the fundamental building blocks of matching pitch and rhythm in real-time using our voice instruments to sing from the letter lines and spaces of the treble clef. Children apply the basics of music literacy and theory and enjoy musical theatre classics.
Science with Mr. Fry
AKA “FRY-ence”
Each session focuses on a particular topic, which the kids explore and offer questions. Topics include biology, chemistry, and physics. In addition to discussion with Mr.Fry, visual aids such as pictures, short videos, and hands-on items (even live animals!) are offered in each lesson.
Español
Through repetition, Primary students become familiar with basic everyday vocabulary. A variety of multi-sensory, engaging activities such as songs, puppets, realia, roleplay, and simple handouts are utilized to encourage children to practice Spanish vocabulary in their classrooms.
Art
Primary students enjoy the process of art through a variety of mediums. Lessons are focused on specific artists throughout history or inspired by a particular art technique. Creativity is encouraged as the children can freely create their own unique pieces.
Elementary Program Enrichment
Music
Elementary students enjoy a music program enhanced by Music Mind Games, an innovative curriculum that utilizes clever games alongside fun and attractive materials. Students learn major and minor chords, matching pitch, and reading more intermediate music from the treble clef. They also study music history and methodologies, starting with the Renaissance composers.
Our upper elementary students are given a distinctive opportunity to explore musical theatre comprehensively. This program combines singing, spoken dialogue, acting, and dance to create an immersive theatre experience. In addition, the students learn how to run a play from start to finish, including directing, managing stagehands, and balancing sound through the twelve-channel mixing board, microphones, and PA system. Their hard work culminates in a full-scale musical performance each spring!
Science with Mr. Fry
AKA “FRY-ence”
Topics run parallel with the curriculum in the Montessori classroom and are augmented with additional lessons based on current topics or fascinating science stories. A variety of engaging presentation aids are used with plenty of emphasis on hands-on experience where applicable. Use of the scientific method, critical thinking skills, and intellectual exploration is incorporated in all lessons to build a genuine love and aptitude for science.
Español
Elementary students expand their comfort with the Spanish language by developing confidence in communicating in Spanish through conversation. Older students begin to practice basic reading and writing in Spanish, setting the foundation for exploring grammar. Cultural experiences and performances are added to engage the students in utilizing their Spanish in fresh and exciting ways.
Art
Students embark on a captivating exploration of a diverse array of classical and contemporary artists. Through the use of various mediums, styles, and subject matters, they not only gain a deep appreciation for the artists’ legacies but also discover and nurture their creativity, fostering confidence in their unique abilities. It’s a journey that encourages self-expression and celebrates the vibrant world of artistic exploration.
Activities
The following enrichment areas are adapted and applied to each level accordingly.
A self-awareness program that develops kindness, anger management, and emotional problem-solving. Role-playing and modeling make this an interactive program.
This program is for our private Kindergarten and Elementary groups. Through traditional cardiovascular activities and games, children learn to enjoy physical fitness in both a cooperative and a competitive framework. While developing their own physical tools, they are also learning the importance of being a graceful and courteous participant, regardless of the outcome.
Children will learn to calm their minds and bodies in these basic yoga classes. From learning the poses to meditation skills and the peace candle, focus and connecting mind and body are the key skills.
Vegetable Gardens and Butterfly Gardens demonstrate the life cycle and role of plants in our environment. They draw all forms of wildlife into our yard; the result is the observation of the close tie between nature and humans.
School in the Hills students and parents participate in collecting or caring for many types of organizations that benefit children and families. The children play a role in organizing, collecting, sorting, and preparing items for delivery. Learning to give back is an essential lesson for all humanity.