Elementary - Franciscan Montessori Earth School Skip to content Elementary Lower Elementary: Ages 6 to 9 years (1 st through 3 rd grade) Upper Elementary: Ages 9 to 12 years (4 th through 6 th grade) Our elementary levels provide a collaborative learning atmosphere that nurtures your child’s intellectual, emotional, social, and academic development through a beautifully prepared environment, experiential education, and cultivating a safe, respectful climate for independent choice. 25 children per classroom; school day from 8:30am-3:30pm 2 adults, an AMI ( Association Montessori Internationale ) accredited guide and an assistant, in each classroom Expanding Minds. Comprehensive Montessori curriculum adhering to the standards of the ( Association Montessori Internationale ) and accredited by the Western Catholic Educational Association ( WCEA Library with over 15,000 volumes and a librarian providing learning support German and Spanish language programs “Going-outs” where students organize outings to deepen their understanding of current studies Nurturing Spirits. Mixed age environment, offering opportunities for collaboration and mentorship Montessori Aspect (before/after care) program, on-campus extracurricular activities, and athletics Atrium (offered spiritual formation) Physical Education program centered on competing with courtesy Theatrical performance workshops Stewarding the Earth. 10-acre campus alive with organic gardens and multiple play structures Gardening education program Earth Experiences outdoor experiences in which students explore a Northwest biome for 2-4 days and live in community. Classroom pet or two to observe and care for “The greatest gifts we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence. ” Dr. Maria Montessori In contrast to conventional classrooms, Montessori elementary students have more independence and responsibility, and are encouraged to collaborate and discuss their work. Montessori classrooms inspire children’s imaginations, foster civility, and nurture academic exploration. Lower Elementary students want to know the how and why of things in their immediate sphere, while Upper Elementary students seek to broaden their scope and context of understanding within the broader world. To observe an Elementary classroom in action, please contact our Admissions Director and schedule a classroom observation. You can also visit the Montessori Guide Video Gallery to learn more. Admissions Programs Community In The News Giving