San Diego Private Elementary School (Ages 6-9)

The progression and development of a child is observed through their growing independence in learning. Students gradually acquire the skills and knowledge that will allow them to enjoy the benefits of the Free Progress method, which is utilized to a greater degree in Section B. Curriculum in a Free Progress environment engages students in an interactive and meaningful exploration of the arts, humanities, math, language, sciences, character development, and physical education. This student-centered learning approach will meet, and often exceed, the California State Standards.

In the Integral Elementary School program, children are guided into developing individual portfolios and conducting projects of their own choice, in their own fields of special interest.

Group activities are an integral component of the elementary program. Democratic discussions will be encouraged along with team brainstorming as they develop critical thinking, social, and communication skills. Cross age peer tutoring will become part of the integrated fabric within the classrooms.

In the Integral Education program, the children are able to progress at their own individual pace under the guidance of sympathetic teachers that are adept in many teaching styles and methods of learning. The philosophy of learning through playful exploration, more often only thought of and used for up to first grade, will be continued throughout the elementary program. There will be a greater variety of resources, wider scope, higher goals, and more thirst to explore deeply into the various subject areas.

A Core Curriculum, or Minimum Course, is provided for the students to acquire knowledge in Geography, the Social Sciences, the Physical, Earth and Life Sciences, as well as to develop the following Core Competencies:

• Literacy Skills
• Computational Skills
• Communication Skills
• Reasoning and Critical Thinking
• Study and Organizational Skills
• Self Knowledge and Personal Mastery Skills

All subject areas are explored with emphasis on project work and detail. IES conducts authentic assessments as opposed to state regulated score-based testing. An Awareness Through the Body (ATB) program is also provided at IES. This is a new and innovative PE program to heighten the mind-body connection.

The guiding principles of our IES program follow a new ideal of education, as Truth, Harmony, Freedom and Joy are embodied in all our IES classrooms.