Harbor's Preschool Program provides a stimulating learning environment for young children in a secure and nurturing setting. Experienced teachers work hand in hand with teaching assistants to provide hands-on, multi-sensory activities that make learning meaningful and fun for our young students. Classroom learning centers provide opportunities for children to explore, discover and acquire understanding through a variety of games, activities and manipulative materials that help to develop academic skills and concepts. Children's literature, creative arts, music and movement enrich the learning experience and accommodate the different learning styles of our students.
Age-appropriate skills, and concepts in literacy, mathematics, science and social studies, are all presented in the context of a variety of inspiring thematic units that are designed to engage students physically, mentally and socially. The Early Childhood program is based on responsive teaching that allows each child to develop at his or her own pace, cultivate individual interests and curiosity and develop independence and self-confidence in the environment of a welcoming and supportive community of classmates and teachers.
Afternoon Enrichment Program
Afternoon Enrichment is available for morning Pre-K students only, and takes place daily from 12:30 to 3:15 pm, with a lunch program available. The program features an Around the World theme that uses creative activities to reinforce skills and concepts presented during the morning academic program. Our young enrichment students begin to develop global awareness; - understandings about different continents, countries and cultures, - integrated with science and mathematics, and music and literacy, in a manner that is truly unique.
Lower School - Grades K-4
Students in Grades One through Four develop the skills that are essential for academic and personal success - problem solving, critical thinking and effective communication. Language arts instruction focuses on making the transition from learning to read to reading to learn, while mathematics centers around the development of strong reasoning skills and building a foundation of important math concepts. In addition to reading, writing, and mathematics, the students cover grade-level courses in science and social studies and have regularly scheduled courses in foreign language that have already begun in Pre-Kindergarten. Vocal and instrumental music, studio art, technology, physical education and library complete the course of study. Field trips throughout the year complement the curriculum. Passionate teachers develop classroom learning communities based upon respect for individuals that foster an environment wherein students can exceed their perceived abilities because they are willing to take risks. This sense of community, coupled with the high quality resources and technology available in each classroom, fuels the Harbor student's innate love of discovery and learning and propels them toward our goal of developing lifelong learners.
Upper School - Grades 5-8
The challenging curriculum for Grades Five through Eight is built upon the academic foundation provided by the lower school program. Talented teachers nurture intellectual curiosity as they guide students to academic success. In addition to the core subjects of English, math, science and social studies, all students study either French or Spanish. Vocal and instrumental music, studio art, technology, physical education and library complete the course of study. Personal responsibility, stewardship and leadership are encouraged through involvement in student council, community service projects, National Junior Honor Society, National Junior Art Honor Society, interscholastic athletics as well as musical and theater productions. Day and overnight field trips complement the integrated curriculum and promote camaraderie among students. An emphasis on higher level thinking skills, such as questioning, analysis and synthesis provides the basis of an excellent academic preparation, while a community of caring and respectful teachers and classmates produce graduates who are open to a diversity of people and ideas.
