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Upper Elementary

The Journey of Upper Elementary

Grades 3rd–6th

Our Philosophy

Our Upper Elementary scholars engage in our Best of Both Worlds educational philosophy through purposeful hands-on learning experiences coupled with rigorous curricular programs. We capitalize on their emerging social emotional development to support self advocacy and independent thinking. Immense cognitive growth allows them to tackle more complex academic, social and emotional tasks with determination and adaptability, leading to learning environments filled with bold learners and leaders.

Our Goals

  • To enforce best pedagogical practices to enforce our “Best of Both Worlds” academic philosophy through innovative, hands-on learning coupled with intentional and established curricular programs. We encourage upper elementary scholars to continue to make connections across subjects and apply their learning as they engage with our curricular programs including Dimensions Singapore Math and Writers Workshop as well as  in their departmentalized instruction in 5th and 6th grade.  

 

  • To foster a community of belonging by emphasizing “high care, high accountability” encouraging students to take ownership for their actions and engage in self-reflection. We cultivate perspective-taking, self-awareness and responsibility through our Flourish program and restorative behavioral practices. We support students as they continue to build strong relationships, explore their sense of self, and develop tools for conflict resolution and repair. 

 

  • To nurture a love of learning and a passion for discovery by encouraging continued curiosity and multiple approaches to learning. We support students in coming up with their own unique ideas and posing thoughtful questions to engage in higher level thinking in all areas of learning (humanities, math, and science) through small groups and differentiated instruction. Students learn how to approach problem solving through various lenses and are provided with real-world academic experiences to further develop their passion for learning.

 

  • To foster leadership among our eldest scholars by promoting independent thinking and action. We prioritize student voice and choice and provide upper elementary scholars with increased opportunities to take initiative of their own learning to further cultivate their spirit of inquiry and enthusiasm of discovery. Upper elementary scholars are encouraged to increase their community engagement through our Buddy Program, Club Block, Student Advisory Board, Student Ambassadors and more as they serve as mentors and student leaders. 

 

  • To celebrate the stories of our students and their families. Our Echo Center and JEDI programs ensure that students have a diverse learning environment that values different perspectives, promotes understanding and prioritizes inclusivity. 
  • .To cultivate partnerships. We believe that consistent, compassionate, informed and ongoing communication can bring the best outcomes for all of the people in our community.

Haley Brooks

Director of Upper Elementary

Learning Environment

Our Upper Elementary learning spaces are on our upstairs floor and are designed to meet the growing independence and expanding intellectual curiosity needs of our eldest learners. Upstairs, students move confidently through departmentalized spaces beginning in 5th grade —including a dedicated Humanities classroom, a dynamic Math room, and a fully equipped Science Lab—mirroring the structure they’ll encounter in middle school and beyond. Flexible seating supports choice, collaboration, and ownership of learning, while individual lockers give 6th grade students a meaningful step toward personal responsibility and organization. Throughout the floor, breakout areas and small-group spaces provide room for focused work, teamwork, and teacher-led support. This thoughtfully designed environment empowers Upper Elementary students to navigate their day with increasing autonomy as they deepen skills, explore new interests, and embrace the next stage of their academic journey.

Echo Horizon has been a fantastic fit for our son. It helped him transition from a shy, young 3rd grader (the year we started at Echo after our local public school turned out not to be a great fit for him) into a confident young 6th grader, both academically and personally. Our favorite part about the school are the teachers, who are not only passionate about finding creative ways to inspire their students, but who also go above and beyond to support and encourage the kids as individuals.

 

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Explore Our Upper Elementary Programs