Arts

We believe visual and performing arts are an essential part of education, and they add intrinsic value to every child’s life. From drawing, painting, and sculpture to strings and handbells, our students enjoy a broad range of opportunities to explore the visual and performing arts and develop their talents.

Visual Arts

In pre-kindergarten through second grade, our youngest students are exposed to the elements of art and principles of design as stepping stones to producing expressive artwork. Children study color, shape, line, texture, and value. Students work in a variety of materials, including drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, textiles, and even computer art. We also study art history, both Western and non-Western, to understand the impact of art on culture.

Art classes for third through sixth graders concern themselves with three basic concepts—an understanding of artists and culture, learning to use various materials and techniques to demonstrate the style of the artist, and finally learning about motivation and integrity in art. Our goal is that all our students find joy in creating their best work. Third through sixth graders may additionally join Art Club.

Dance

We offer creative movement in pre-kindergarten, pre-ballet classes in kindergarten, and ballet and modern jazz to first through sixth graders. In addition, we offer a KinderKinetics class design for pre-kindergarten boys, incorporating movement and music in games. For first grade through sixth grade, dance classes take place twice a week during P.E. Kindergarten dance classes meet after school.

Music

In pre-kindergarten and kindergarten, our music classes nurture the child’s cognitive, emotional, social, verbal, and physical development through singing, dancing, playing percussion instruments, listening, and even learning to read musical notation. Kindergartners learn to play color-coded handbells.

In first and second grade, students continue to develop an understanding of rhythm and pitch while exploring music by singing and playing instruments. For third through sixth graders, our general music curriculum teaches music theory and reading skills and develops rhythm, pitch, and voice.