Beginning School: Preschool, Pre-Kindergarten
The Ashbrook Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten program provides children ages 3 – 4 with a social learning experience that allows them space to create and engage in joyful and stimulating play.
Our little ones are encouraged to play and explore through literature, music, art, math and science. Ashbrook preschoolers and pre-kindergarteners learn to work together and solve problems cooperatively.
Lower School: grades K-4
Kindergarten begins the transition to Lower School. Kindergarten students follow a daily schedule which includes reading, math, science, music, art, and PE. Foreign language is also taught daily at the Kindergarten level.
In our first through fourth grades, an integrated approach to teaching and learning across multiple content areas develops love of learning, meaningful connections, and higher level thinking skills.
Content areas in 1-4 include math concepts and skills, literature, writing, the scientific process, and social studies from a global perspective. Foreign languages, PE, art, character education, music, and drama complete the lower school curriculum.
5th Grade
Fifth grade is a transition year with the four core courses taught by a single teacher, but electives are taken with the broader Middle School. Study and time management skills are emphasized to prepare students for the greater independence and responsibility of Middle School.
Middle School: Grades 5-8
Ashbrook students in grades 5-8 go beyond facts to higher level thinking skills, including application, analysis, synthesis, and integration of content areas. Emphasis is on in-depth exploration of subjects as well as on time management and organizational skills.
A balance of conceptual understanding, problem solving, and skill building is taught across core subjects. Field trips include a week long outdoor science program for grades 6-8, and can include class trips for grades 5-8, optional international exchange programs, and trips to local and Ashland theater programs.
Core classes for 6th through 8th grades include math, world history, English/language arts and laboratory sciences. (See academics for full curriculum information.) PE, foreign languages, and the arts are taught 2-3 times per week. A wide range of electives supplements engagement and learning.
