Welcome to Upper Elementary at Rising Sun Montessori

Our Upper Elementary program is designed for children aged 9–12 (grades 4–6), a time when students are ready to deepen their intellectual pursuits, take on greater responsibility, and engage in meaningful exploration.

Building on the foundation of earlier Montessori experiences, Upper Elementary prepares students for adolescence and beyond by fostering independence, critical thinking, and a strong sense of self. At this stage, children are driven by curiosity and a desire to understand complex concepts and their place in the world.

The Montessori Approach

The Upper Elementary program nurtures a child’s innate desire to learn through a hands-on, interdisciplinary approach. The classroom environment promotes autonomy while encouraging collaboration and community.

Students are active participants in their education, taking ownership of their learning through self-directed projects, research, and exploration. Teachers act as guides, facilitating individualized learning paths and challenging students to reach their fullest potential.

The Prepared Environment

The Upper Elementary classroom is a dynamic space filled with resources and materials designed to inspire inquiry, exploration, and mastery. Key areas of focus include:

• • Language Arts: Advanced reading comprehension, literary analysis, research, and refined writing skills are emphasized, including essays, reports, creative writing, and public speaking.
  • Mathematics: Students explore abstract concepts such as algebra, geometry, and advanced problem-solving, with a focus on real-world applications.
  • Cultural Studies: A cornerstone of Montessori education, cultural studies integrate history, geography, science, and cultural awareness. Students study timelines, ancient civilizations, world religions, and human progress, connecting past and present.
  • Science: Through experiments and research, students delve into physics, chemistry, biology, and environmental science, fostering curiosity and a scientific mindset.
  • Practical Life Skills: Lessons in financial literacy, time management, and organization help students prepare for real-world challenges.
  • The Arts: Music, visual arts, drama, and creative projects provide opportunities for self-expression and innovation.

Developing Leadership and Community

Upper Elementary students take on leadership roles within the classroom and the school community. They engage in group projects, mentor younger students, and collaborate with peers, honing their interpersonal and teamwork skills.

They also participate in service-learning projects, field trips, and community activities, which cultivate empathy, social responsibility, and a sense of purpose

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Nurturing the Whole Child

As children enter this developmental stage, they are not only focused on academics but also on discovering their identity and values. Our program emphasizes:

• • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving: Encouraging students to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information across disciplines.
  • Independence and Responsibility: Supporting students as they plan their work, manage deadlines, and set personal goals.
  • Social and Emotional Growth: Fostering respect, empathy, and resilience through group work and individual reflection.

Preparing for Adolescence and Beyond

Our Upper Elementary program equips students with the skills, confidence, and mindset needed for a successful transition to adolescence. By the time they graduate, they are not only academically prepared but also emotionally mature, socially responsible, and ready to embrace new challenges.

At Rising Sun Montessori, we aim to inspire lifelong learners who see themselves as empowered individuals capable of making a difference in their communities and the world.