Elementary School
Grades 1-5
If your primary concern is that your child will be supported, understood, and prepared, Walden’s approach turns common parental concerns into measurable benefits: steady academic growth, smoother transitions, stronger social skills, and the executive habits that support lifelong learning.
Walden’s elementary classrooms build on the student-centered independence and sensorial richness of the Montessori philosophy. In our Elementary School, grades 1–5, students already learn in multi-age communities, moving freely between hands-on materials, small-group workshops, and teacher-led discussions. This structure nurtures self-direction, grace and courtesy, and deep conceptual understanding, all hallmarks of Montessori education.
As an International Baccalaureate Candidate School, we’re now laying the groundwork to weave the Primary Years Programme into that strong Montessori foundation. The IB PYP elements will be introduced alongside our familiar routines that spark inquiry around transdisciplinary themes, explicit teaching of approaches to learning skills like research and collaboration, and reflections that help students connect their discoveries to global contexts.
Our classrooms remain carefully prepared environments, where Montessori sensorial materials and emerging IB PYP resources are side by side. A student might start by exploring geometric concepts with bead frames, then apply those same ideas in an IB PYP unit on “How We Express Ourselves.” Teachers will guide children to formulate their own lines of inquiry, choose materials that meet their unique interests, and share learning through exhibitions that celebrate both Montessori mastery and IB thinking.
Integrated Arts in music, art, PE, and LifeSkills will also evolve to support this integration. You may find art projects framing the IB PYP theme of “Sharing the Planet” or movement activities reinforcing science concepts under investigation. These co-teaching partnerships ensure the IB PYP isn’t an add-on but a seamless enhancement of the values our elementary school learners already live each day. By weaving IB PYP practices into our Montessori-inspired classrooms, we’re strengthening every child’s agency, global awareness, and love of learning. This journey will prepare our students not only for success in middle school but for lives as confident, compassionate, and curious citizens of the world.
To learn more about the IB PYP, click here.
Walden Students Excel! And We're Investing in Even More Learning!
For three consecutive years, Walden's Grades 3-5 have averaged 1.5-2 grade levels above their grade equivalent on the Iowa Standardized tests:
Grade 3: Reading, 5.7 Math, 5.1
Grade 4: Reading, 5.8 Math 5.8
Grade 5: Reading, 6.7 Math 6.1
These results reflect the daily work of our teachers and the strengths of Walden's learning environment.
This year, we're building on that success by becoming a Candidate School for the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP). The PYP's focus on inquiry, transdisciplinary thinking, and assessment literacy complements the skills measured by the Iowa tests in comprehension, reasoning, and problem-solving. We plan to introduce PYP practices thoughtfully and intentionally so they strengthen both academic outcomes and student engagement.
This matters for families. With proven academic growth, plus the PYP pathway as Walden moves toward expected World School authorization in late spring 2027, staying through 5th grade means your child benefits from an outstanding school experience.
Grades 1/2 - How Walden Helps Your Child Thrive
Personalized Learning That Prevents Gaps
Instead of a one‑size‑fits‑all pace, each child follows an individualized learning plan. That means your child receives instruction and materials matched to their current skills, so foundational gaps are identified and filled early rather than compounded. Teachers tailor lessons in reading, writing, and math so progress is steady and measurable.
Deep Focus for Real Mastery
Two hours of uninterrupted work time gives students the space to concentrate and complete meaningful tasks. This sustained focus builds mastery, reduces anxiety about “keeping up,” and helps children internalize routines that support long‑term academic success.
Hands‑On Learning That Builds Understanding
Hands‑on materials and sensory tools make abstract concepts concrete. When children manipulate materials to learn phonics, math concepts, or scientific ideas, they develop deeper comprehension and retain skills longer, so classroom learning translates into real confidence and competence.
Differentiated Support and Clear Progress
Afternoon small‑group instruction and targeted reinforcement ensure students get extra practice where they need it. Teachers document progress and adjust plans, so parents see clear evidence of growth rather than vague assurances. This approach turns concern about falling behind into a plan to catch up and move forward.
Social‑Emotional Skills That Matter
Beyond academics, the classroom explicitly teaches independence, conflict resolution, and problem-solving. Tools like the peace table help children name their feelings, repair relationships, and practice respectful communication, skills that reduce classroom stress and improve readiness to learn.
Real Outcomes for Your Child
Children leave the 1/2 classroom with stronger literacy and numeracy foundations, better self‑management, and the ability to collaborate and solve problems. They become learners who can pace themselves, ask for help when needed, and show resilience—qualities that benefit them across school and life.
Grades 3/4/5 - How Walden Benefits Your Child
Personalized Attention That Prevents Falling Behind
With a 6:1 student‑teacher ratio, your child receives focused, timely instruction tailored to their strengths and gaps. That means teachers can spot struggles early, provide targeted support, and accelerate progress so small setbacks don’t become long‑term problems.
A Balanced Path from Flexibility to Structure
Starting the day together in a morning meeting builds belonging and clarity. The more fluid schedule in grades three and four allows students to explore and deepen their understanding at their own pace, while the structured fifth‑grade routine intentionally prepares them for middle school expectations. This gradual shift reduces anxiety and builds the habits students need to succeed in later grades.
Real Social Growth Through Shared Time
Daily lunch and recess reunite the class and create natural opportunities for friendship, teamwork, and conflict resolution. These everyday interactions teach cooperation, empathy, and how to navigate peer relationships, skills that directly support classroom learning and emotional well‑being.
Executive Skills That Support Academic Success
Teachers emphasize task initiation, time management, and organization, so students learn how to plan, prioritize, and complete work independently. These executive function skills translate into better homework habits, stronger project work, and greater confidence in academic settings.
Teachers Who Know and Advocate for Your Child
Because teachers truly know each student, they provide timely guidance and individualized encouragement. That close knowledge means recommendations, interventions, and celebrations are grounded in a child’s real progress, not assumptions, so families see clear, meaningful growth.
Confidence, Independence, and Self‑Advocacy
Beyond grades, students leave the 3–5 classroom with stronger character and the ability to speak up for themselves. Lessons in self‑advocacy and character development help children become resilient learners who ask for help, take responsibility, and lead with integrity.
Discover how Walden nurtures each child’s potential. Schedule a tour today!
Elementary Teaching Team
Donna Goodwin
Faith Kearney
Elyse Kirkpatrick
Kate Trotter
