Curriculum Overview
Lower School (AMI)
The Lower School program serves students from age 3 through the 6th grade. Based on the curriculum of Dr. Maria Montessori, the school is an accredited Association Montessori International (AMI) school. The philosophy is based on several factors: looking at the child as a whole and addressing the educational, social, and emotional needs of each child. Children are taught grace and courtesy as part of the curriculum as well as the concept of freedom and responsibility. The Montessori approach meets each child at his or her level, encouraging confidence and setting a high level of expectation that the student rises to meet.
In the Casa (half day) and Primary programs, students from age 3-6 years are together in the class in the morning period. In Language, sounds are first introduced followed by blends and phonograms. In Math, we start with the decimal concept of 1 through 1,000 introducing addition and subtraction in the thousands. Geometry is also a part of the instruction: geometric solids, types of triangles, trapezoids and pentagrams are also explored. In Science, students study parts of animals and plants while exploring the concept of living and non-living things. In Geography, the basic land forms are mastered which then leads into continents and countries of the world. Social studies will encompass Presidents, Pilgrims, Native Americans, and other famous people through history.The Casa program begins daily at 8:00AM, with dismissal at 11:30AM. The Primary program begins daily at 8:00AM, with dismissal at 3:00PM.
In the Elementary program from 1st through 6th grade, the subjects are based on a broad curriculum. In Math, the four operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) are taught and then concepts like factoring, square roots and basic algebraic formulas are explored. Language begins with breaking down the nine parts of speech and progresses to writing research papers with bibliographies. Science explores classification of the Plant, Animal, and Fungi Kingdoms. The Elementary classes introduce Chemistry, Physics, Earth Science, and Anatomy and Physiology. In Geography, students continue to learn all of the countries of the world while studying mountains, rivers, capitals, etc. Social Studies incorporate the needs of man through the ages as well as studying national and international governments. The Lower and Upper Elementary programs begin at 8:00AM, with dismissal at 3:30PM.
Upper School (College Prep)
The Clariden Upper School is composed of grades 7 through 12, with 7th and 8th grade identified as middle school, and 9th through 12th grades as high school. Small classes, close relationships between dedicated teachers and students, and strong bonds among the students are all features of the Upper School program.
With an educational environment strongly rooted in the Montessori principles which guide the Lower School, the Upper School curriculum incorporates state educational guidelines for college preparation. The curriculum is designed to support the adolescent in the areas of academic, social, and personal development. Students are challenged according to their unique academic ability. Classes include time devoted to the development of organizational and study skills, cooperative team projects and individual learning. Students are empowered to learn the importance of becoming an independent thinker, a self-reliant citizen, and a willing participant in group activities. Leadership experiences are offered, with community service opportunities planned and developed by the students.
Participation in a wide range of extra- and co-curricular activities is a vital element at Clariden. Competitive team sports (such as basketball, cross-county, and baseball) with emphasis on positive, cooperative team play are offered, along with opportunities to perform in musical and other dramatic performances. Student Council, National Honor Society, yearbook, and other organizations support student involvement in school activities. Field trips and group travel add variety and group-building opportunities. The Clariden School also allows interested high school students to assist with day to day technology support tasks through the Technology Department's Student Internship Program. This program allows students to assist with printer and workstation maintenance, audio-visual equipment setup, website updating, and more.
Throughout the entire program, the importance of community life is emphasized by students and faculty alike, providing an atmosphere conducive to the steady growth of each individual. The Upper School program beings daily at 8:00AM, with a 3:45PM dismissal.