Elementary School
Grades 1-5
Walden’s Elementary School continues to build learners’ sense of inquisitiveness and independence.Walden's Elementary School classrooms resemble the multi-age structure of the Primary Program, with multiple grades per classroom. Students engage in a dynamic blend of individual instruction, group lessons, and self-directed activities. This approach encourages collaboration as children work alongside peers of different ages and receive guidance from teachers, fostering leadership skills and empathy as they both teach and learn from one another.
A vital aspect of the Montessori-inspired approach in elementary grades is following the child by providing instruction and learning opportunities that meet each child’s needs. In addition, the classroom is a prepared environment and includes Montessori materials that are accessible and can be navigated independently.
Elementary students at Walden also enjoy enriching supplemental programs in music, physical education, art, and LifeSkills, which complement their daily academic work. Collaboration between classroom teachers and co-curricular instructors ensures these programs support content learning, making the educational experience even more meaningful.
At Walden, students are given opportunities to make choices, solve problems, and work autonomously, cultivating confidence and a strong sense of responsibility. This approach helps them succeed in the classroom and prepares them for real-world challenges, where self-reliance and adaptability are essential.
Lower Elementary Grades 1-2
The first and second-grade classroom at Walden is a Montessori-inspired, mixed-age community where students follow individualized learning plans across academic areas such as word study, writing, math, science, and grammar. Each day begins with a morning meeting, followed by two hours of uninterrupted work time, during which students navigate the classroom with hands-on materials and sensory learning tools. In the afternoons, students receive differentiated instruction in reading, writing, and math, with Fridays dedicated to science-based “Fun Friday” activities that include STEM projects, research, and art.
Students work at their own pace, guided by a work plan that encourages independent learning and growth. They develop essential skills such as time management and creative thinking, while the word study curriculum provides a structured approach to understanding phonics and language. Teachers tailor materials to meet each child's unique learning needs, offering additional support and reinforcement.
In the 1/2 classroom, teachers focus on developing the whole child, fostering independence, conflict resolution, and problem-solving skills. With teacher support and “the peace table,” students learn to express their feelings, respond to peers respectfully, and build meaningful relationships within the classroom community.
Upper Elementary Grades 3-4-5
At Walden, the third-, fourth-, and fifth-grade class offers a supportive, close-knit community with a 6:1 student-teacher ratio. Students and teachers begin each day together with a morning meeting before diving into academic work. While the organization of the third and fourth grades academic day is more fluid, fifth graders experience a structured schedule to prepare them for middle school. Lunch and recess bring the class back together, fostering friendships and collaboration.
With a low student-to-teacher ratio, Walden offers personalized attention, adapting instruction to meet each child's unique needs. Teachers emphasize critical skills like task initiation, time management, and organization, ensuring students grow academically while building good character and personality.
Walden teachers know their students well, allowing them to provide timely support and guidance. Character development and self-advocacy lessons help students grow as confident, independent learners.
Discover how Walden nurtures each child’s potential—schedule a tour today!
Elementary Teaching Team
Donna Goodwin
Kate Goodwin
Faith Kearney
Elyse Kirkpatrick
