We Move, Explore, Use Math, and Learn to Read!
Actively learning and exploring, we are "out of the chair" in Kindergarten through Grade 2.
Expanding Our Knowledge
As active learners in Kindergarten through Grade 2, we develop our creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration skills.
We enjoy phonics training, quality children’s literature, writing, and a comprehensive study of history beginning with ancient civilizations. In Math, we master the basic elements and become proficient in mathematical reasoning and practical application through the use of manipulatives, modeling, and problem-solving.
Our exploration centers feature hands-on activities that correspond with skills and concepts we are learning in Math, social studies, Bible, and literature from story time. Design learning is integrated into our units and subjects of science, math, literature, or history. We love our S.T.E.A.M. centers where we build, code, draw, create, and collaborate. You can find us using “I Can Draw” books, constructing a marble run with Marble Tracks, building with Citiblocs and Magatiles, painting with watercolors, or practicing coding with a robot.
Lower Elementary School Program Offerings
Grades 1 – 2
The hours of operation for Grades 1-2 are from 8:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. The curriculum is an integral part of our learning environment, reflects our mission statement, and meets and exceeds the frameworks put forth by the Massachusetts Department of Education. Integrated areas of enrichment include music, art, Design Learning, science, Chapel, Bible, Spanish, field trips, technology, library, gym, and outdoor play. These rich disciplines are integrated into the core curriculum in an interdisciplinary way.
Kindergarten
The hours of operation for Kindergarten students are from 8:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Monday to Thursday and 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on Friday.
Kindergarten Enrichment
Kindergarten Enrichment is offered on Friday afternoon from 12:00 p.m to 3:15 p.m. and includes a variety of themed activities that enhance the Kindergarten experience.
Specials
Gym – Twice a Week
Art – Once a Week
Music – Once a Week
Technology Literacy – Integrated into centers and daily learning
Spanish – Twice a Week
Bible – Twice a Week
Sample Schedule
Specials
8:00 a.m. - 8:15 a.m.
Morning Work
8:15 a.m. - 8:30 a.m.
Morning Meeting
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.
Language arts/literacy centers (Reading groups, Literacy centers, Phonics, Fundations)
9:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m.
Auxiliaries (Science - half a year in formal Science class for Grades 1-2; as well as Music, Art, Drama, Physical Education, Spanish, and Technology literacy)
10:30 a.m. - 10:50 a.m.
Snack
12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Lunch/Recess
1:00 p.m. - 1:45 p.m.
History/Bible
1:45 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Writing Workshop
2:30 p.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Auxiliaries (Science - half a year in formal Science class for Grades 1-2; as well as Music, Art, Drama, Physical Education, Spanish, and Technology literacy)
3:00 p.m. - 3:15 p.m.
Dismissal
Core Subjects
10:50 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Math
Learning in Lower Elementary
Personalized Literacy Instruction
We utilize students’ strengths to support further growth, and foster a love and enjoyment of reading.
"Out of the Chair" Learning
We teach students how to become learners through active, fun, engaging, and multi-sensory lessons that provide them with engaging and challenging choices.
Strong Learning Community
We encourage students to use Social/Emotional Tools such as collaboration, problem-solving, and communication to build a supportive and productive learning environment.
Boston as a Classroom
The best benefit to attending school in the heart of Boston is all the learning that takes place outside our school walls! We explore the ancient civilizations of Greece and Egypt at the Museum of Fine Arts or see constellations spin over our heads inside the Museum of Science. It’s where we learn to make a difference, even at a young age. We play games with residents of an elderly complex; express appreciation to the firefighters, crossing guards, or mail carriers of our city with handmade cards; or spend time with preschoolers from a daycare for the homeless. Being a student in the city means we always learn!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do children nap?
At the Preschool, only children who stay for Creative Afternoons will have a rest period after lunch. At the Elementary School, Kindergarten students have a rest time after lunch, which often includes a read aloud story time.
Is there a dress code?
Yes. For students in Kindergarten through Grade 6 at the Elementary School, Park Street School has a standard school uniform. Students are expected to wear the school uniform each day, unless otherwise notified. Grade 6 students are expected to wear blazers for special occasions and for Chapel.
The Preschool does not have a uniform policy.
What is some of the curriculum you use at the Elementary School?
In addition to Core Knowledge and Everyday Mathematics, the Lower Elementary uses fun, research-based curriculum such as Wilson Language Basics' Fundations as our phonics program, Open Court, Handwriting Without Tears, Everyday Math, and Shurley Grammar. We use Responsive Classroom as the basis for our social and emotional learning curriculum throughout the school.
The Upper Elementary also uses Shurley Grammar, Fundations, and Keyboarding Without Tears. Third graders use Zaner-Bloser's Cursive Handwriting. Fourth through sixth grade students are introduced to classical literature and novels that enhance and integrate with Core Knowledge units as well as Vocabulary from Classical Roots. Students in Grade 5 and 6 begin instruction in Office365, the usage of iPads, and are taught how to be digital citizens of integrity.
Does the school provide snacks or lunch?
Park Street School does not provide daily meals or snacks. Parents are to send in two snacks and a lunch each day. Children staying for the after school program will need three snacks.
Will students receive homework each night?
Yes. Students at the Elementary School will be assigned homework by their classroom teachers. Homework is given to reinforce the concepts being taught in class. The amount given each week will be appropriate for each grade level. Homework completion is factored into students' grades. Parents will be notified if more than three assignments are missing within a period of a month.
How do I find out about my child’s progress at school?
Classroom teachers send weekly updates, primarily through our Parent Portal, about classroom happenings, events, and activities. They are also are available daily by e-mail or telephone. In addition, students are assessed throughout the year. Progress reports are published on the Parent Portal three times per year, with parent-teacher conferences for the first and second trimester.