ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

In addition to Integrated Studies, CRCS Elementary School curriculum features:

English Language Arts
CRCS uses a balanced literacy approach that combines explicit teaching of skills and activities for children designed to build comprehension and meaning.

Reading, writing, listening and speaking comprise our fundamental components of literacy. Students learn to read, write, listen, and speak for a variety of purposes across all curricular areas.

Math
CRCS math curriculum is based around EngageNY: A Story of Units math curriculum designed around the Common Core Math Students.

Science
CRCS science curriculum is led by our co-teaching Science team using the Full Option Science System (FOSS) curriculum. FOSS provides an inquiry-based, hands-on approach to science consistent with CRCS mission. FOSS inquiries ask students to make use of all five senses for observation. This multi-sensory approach makes content accessible for all learning styles.

Collaboration is central to science at CRCS. K-2nd grade students learn to work collaboratively while developing their independent investigative skills. Beginning in 3rd grade, students work in groups of four collectively responsible for managing, collecting, analyzing and reporting data results. 

Visual and Performing Arts
CRCS students experience visual expression and problem solving through design under the guidance of our Art co-teaching team.

Students are encouraged to take creative risks by trying new approaches in their work using a variety of media and materials.

CRCS music curriculum, taught by our Music teacher, actively engages students in making music with their voices, bodies, and a variety of percussion instruments. It is informed by the Kodály concept of music education that posits singing and traditional folk music of various cultures as the foundation of music learning.

We have a partnership with the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) that gives student dance instruction and the opportunity to experience performance arts at the exhibition level. 

Physical Education
CRCS students receive Physical Education twice a week by our Physical Education teacher. We view physical education as a time for students to learn and practice fine and gross motor skills, to learn how to actively participate in large group games and to develop habits that lead to staying physically fit.

Community Building through Conflict Resolution
CRCS students develop communication skills, the ability and willingness to listen to their peers, to take turns and to share responsibilities through the Resolving Conflict Creatively Program (RCCP), Responsive Classroom and the study of our core values.