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Specialist Curriculum
French
French has been taught at The Academy since the school was founded. Oral expression
and good pronunciation are emphasized from Kindergarten on through games and
songs. We work on building the basic skills of reading, writing,
listening and speaking through a communicative method that enables the students
to interact with their peers in class and prepare them to travel and experience
the French-speaking world with fluency and proficiency.
Latin
The purpose of the Latin program at The Academy is to equip students to read Classical Latin with fluency and
historical awareness. Students receive a firm foundation in the principles of Latin grammar and syntax, and
use this knowledge to gain a more precise understanding of the structure of English, French and other modern
European languages. Readings focusing on the story of Aeneas and daily life in ancient Rome introduce students
to Roman history and culture. As their linguistic mastery develops, students encounter that culture more directly
through translating original texts of Ovid, Catullus and Virgil. Students are ready for second-year high school
Latin by the time they graduate.
Art
There are two specialist art teachers, one each for the Lower and Upper Schools.
The Lower School art program teaches basic art principles through a variety of different techniques including drawing, painting, color theory, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking and fiber arts. An assortment of multicultural art projects celebrating the seasons and the holidays are featured throughout the school year.
Projects in the Upper School Art Studio are designed to increase students' awareness and understanding of art, as well as introduce them to a variety of historical and contemporary artists. Students work with eclectic materials and media. Projects range from basic drawing to soapstone carving. The highlight is an annual fashion show emphasizing creativity and costumes made from recycled materials.
Music
At the Academy everyone sings. A specialist music teacher works with all grades. All students learn to read music
as well as perform with gusto in musical productions.
In kindergarten students start by singing simple, short, melodic songs. Children practice rhythms with clapping, speaking words to rhythm and using rhythm instruments. They then begin to sing short easy rounds which help them grow accustomed to singing parts. Movement and dance are used to learn rhythm and musical concepts. The rounds get more complex and then graduate to simple two-part songs. Students sing songs from many cultures and in many languages.
The Upper School music program covers the history of Western classical music from the medieval period through the twentieth century, and introduces students to numerous forms of world music. Students listen to music, watch operas and other performances on videos, play instruments, and listen to live musical performances. They become familiar with different periods and styles of music as they learn what that music sounds like, what to listen for, and indeed, how to listen.
Computers
At The Academy the computer is used as a tool to enhance the learning experience.
A specialist teacher provides instruction for grades K - 5. We use the online
program “K to the 8th Power” as our foundation for the computer
lab curriculum. Upper school students use the computer as a way to acquire
and disseminate information. Our 6th – 8th grade students use the computer
lab to conduct research on the Internet and use word processors to produce
reports.
Physical Education
The school strongly encourages all students to be physically fit and active. There is a specialist Physical Education
teacher for all grades starting in kindergarten. The younger students work on basic movement, movement space, co-ordination
and co-operation. Later, sport skills and games of strategy are introduced. There is an emphasis on teamwork and on positive
words and body language. Upper School students participate in fitness assessments in which the goal is personal improvement.
The school strives to provide a well-rounded curriculum, including team and individual sports. Students are encouraged to participate in the Middle School Sport League by playing soccer, basketball and volleyball as extracurricular activities.