Elementary School
Grades 1-5
Walden’s Elementary School continues to build learners’ sense of inquisitiveness, independence, and global mindedness.
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.
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
Faith Kearney
Elyse Kirkpatrick
Kate Trotter
