6th Grade

Academically, the 6th grade year continues to foster independence, refine study skills, nurture empathy, build leadership and prepare students for secondary school.

The “big kids on campus” enjoy their kindergarten buddies and share with them many special experiences. Our 6th graders embrace their duties as role models and student leaders from the first day they put on their student-designed sweatshirts (an exception to the uniform for 6th graders only!). The fall retreat strengthens the ties among all the members of the graduating class as they participate in events focused on leadership skills and team building.

Thanks to a social studies curriculum that features both ancient history and international studies, by the end of the year all students learn and can locate on a map the name of every country and capital in the world and have experienced an in-depth study of the country of their choice.

Ancient Civilizations class focuses on the societies of Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome, Egypt, India, and China. A photo essay field trip asks student teams to create a visual representation that documents the hallmarks of civilization based on their observations of Los Angeles.

Current Events evolve into Toastmasters, during which students take turns speaking to the class on topics of their choice. The topics of these oral presentations have ranged from comics and candy to magic tricks and beyond. All the while, students are developing public speaking skills that will help them in their future endeavors both in and out of the classroom.

Service Learning

Service Learning is a key component of the 6th grade curriculum, which culminates in a focus on student-driven projects. The students learn about the value of meaningful service, and teachers emphasize the importance of asking questions instead of making assumptions when it comes to meeting the needs of others.

Trip to Washington, D.C.

In their final year at Carlthorp, students travel to Washington, D.C., for an immersive experience that brings history and civics to life. Highlights include visits to the Capitol, White House, and Supreme Court as well as powerful storytelling moments at the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and Ford’s Theater. Alongside these experiences, students engage with lawmakers, explore iconic memorials, and reflect on the people and movements that have shaped the nation — deepening their understanding of democracy as they prepare for the next chapter.

Meet the Team

List of 4 items.

Andrew Chubb

Originally from the UK, Andrew moved to Los Angeles in 2019 with his wife, an LA native. He brings over 15 years of teaching experience in both the UK and South Korean public schools, working primarily in grades 3-6. He especially enjoys teaching 5th and 6th grade, guiding students as they grow in confidence, independence, and skill. He earned a master’s degree while teaching in South Korea and holds a postgraduate certificate in education from the University of Brighton. Before moving to LA, he taught 5th grade in England and most recently spent two years teaching grades 4-5 at Gindi Maimonides Academy in Los Angeles. He has a passion for helping students develop their voice through writing; some have been recognized in international competitions. Outside the classroom, he enjoys spending time with his young child, playing sports, reading, and traveling with his family.
Lance Cromwell

Lance is so excited to be joining the Carlthorp community! He is a graduate of Colgate University, where he earned a degree in English with accompanying minors in education, philosophy, and art and art history. A passionate educator, he has taught high school English and test prep for The Princeton Review, and for the past nine years has taught for the nonprofit Spirit Series, directing theater and teaching story writing and storytelling in grades 4-12 in Maine and Los Angeles. He loves all things art — film, theater, fine art, music, and writing of all kinds — as well as yummy cooking, lacrosse, and travel. He adores being a dad to his children, Madeline, Michela, and Max, and living with his partner Emily and their three pugs, Chicken, Waffles, and Henry.
Sachi Hillson

Sachi joined the Carlthorp School faculty in 2000 and taught 1st grade, 2nd grade, and 5th grade before becoming head librarian in 2009 with a Library Media Teacher Services Credential from California State University, Long Beach. In 2015, she returned to the 5th grade classroom and then moved to her current position in 6th grade. Sachi is also proud to serve as a member of the Admissions team at Carlthorp. She completed undergraduate studies at the University of Oregon and subsequently earned her teaching credential and master’s in education from Loyola Marymount University. In her free time, Sachi enjoys going to concerts and exploring Los Angeles with her husband Michael and son Trent.
Xylina Meade

Xylina brings her passion for teaching, connection, and creativity to the classroom. With 28 years of experience teaching elementary students in grades 3-6, Xylina is deeply committed to nurturing the whole child — academically, socially, and emotionally. She believes in creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student feels seen, valued, and empowered to grow.

Originally from Lafayette, California, Xylina holds a multiple subject teaching credential from San Diego State University and earned her M.S. in reading and literacy.

Beyond the classroom, Xylina hopes to lead a jewelry-making class inspired by her experience selling handmade pieces in Los Angeles boutiques. She loves all animals, and has volunteered her services at multiple animal adoption rescues. Outside of school, she practices Pilates, enjoys traveling, and heads to the mountains with her family for skiing adventures.