First graders at Carlthorp School are old pros at the ins and outs of how the school works. Within the first few weeks of school, the high-energy classroom walls are plastered with original illustrated stories and projects. Art projects help define the year, both within the classroom, and in the Art Room. First graders continue to build their academic foundation - while having a wonderful time! The children develop math skills as a class, and reading skills in small groups with our Reading Specialists. What began as "News" in kindergarten becomes "Sharing" in the first grade, and children are encouraged to be comfortable speaking in front of the class.

"New Year's Day Around the World" integrates art, writing, science, music and dance, literature, and social studies. Students read books about Chinese New Year, write dragon word problems and stories, and create their own dragons. In their tour around the world, the children study "From Farm to Table," making butter, examining raw eggs, wool clippings, and feathers under a microscope. A visit to "Gentle Barn" to interact with rescued farm animals is a highlight of the year.

Special events like the First Grade Parents' Breakfasts, where children can proudly display what they have learned to mom and dad, help our first graders feel good about how far they have progressed after just one year at Carlthorp School!