Grades 3–5 · The Laurel School

Upper Elementary

Deeper reading, inquiry, and expression.

Grades 3–5

More depth.
More independence.

Upper Elementary invites students to read closely, communicate clearly, reason mathematically, and investigate meaningful questions. A multiage learning environment supports increasing independence while keeping teacher guidance close at hand.

Students move beyond giving an answer toward explaining, supporting, and revising their thinking. Literature, nonfiction, daily writing, and hands-on inquiry connect knowledge with purposeful work.

Two Laurel students working with books and written activities at a classroom table

What children learn

Clear foundations.
Connected learning.

Explore the subjects that make up the academic day.

Reading

Literature and nonfiction develop comprehension, interpretation, and evidence-based discussion. Students infer, explore themes, compare ideas, and explain their thinking with support from a text.

Writing & Handwriting

Daily writing develops organized paragraphs and longer pieces for different purposes. Students practice revision, mechanics, and increasingly fluent cursive while learning to communicate with clarity.

Spelling & Word Study

Spelling patterns, vocabulary, roots, and affixes deepen understanding of how words work. Students connect word knowledge to reading comprehension and written expression.

Mathematics

Computation extends into fractions, decimals, and more complex problem solving. Students explain strategies, compare approaches, and strengthen mathematical reasoning.

Science & Investigation

Observation, investigation, and evidence help students move from questions to explanations. Hands-on work and nature study connect scientific ideas to what students can notice and test.

History & Geography

A rotating social studies sequence explores geography, Virginia, and world and United States history. Reading, research, and discussion help students understand people, places, and change.

A balanced daily rhythm.

The elementary rhythm balances sustained reading and writing, mathematics, science or social studies, and hands-on discovery. Art, music, movement, and outdoor learning remain essential parts of a complete education.

Predictable routines give children a secure structure, with room for meaningful questions and work that deserves more time.

Support that follows
the learner.

Teachers provide feedback that helps students revise work, strengthen strategies, and recognize their next steps. Students practice responsibility, persistence, and independent work while continuing to receive guidance suited to their readiness.

Formal progress reports at MP2, MP4, and MP6 draw on cumulative evidence. Teachers confirm growth tiers across Literacy, Mathematics, Inquiry & Knowledge, Character & Community, and Habits of Learning.

Accreditation

Middle States
candidacy.

The Laurel School is a candidate for accreditation through the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.

Accreditation is a multi-year process of self-study, peer review, and continuous improvement. Our academics, governance, and family engagement are built in alignment with Middle States standards as we move through candidacy toward full accreditation.

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The Laurel learning journey

Explore our other programs.

Junior Kindergarten Lower Elementary (K–2) Middle School (Grade 6)