CMS Elementary provides a powerful learning environment for young people. At
this age, students build on the capacity for concrete learning developed in the
Primary. They begin to think abstractly as their ability to reason increases.
The question "What?" is supplemented by the questions "Why?" and "How?" as the
children reach out to understand their world.
The school year begins with a dramatic series of lessons that demonstrate the
physical structure and cosmic order of the universe. The children pursue their
interests in the areas of Geography, History, Mathematics, Geometry, Biology
and Language. Exploration in these areas is encouraged through trips outside
the classroom to community resources, such as the library, botanical garden,
universities, the science center, etc.
Class work focuses on research and experimentation. The children's
imaginations are an effective tool, offering the opportunity for awe-inspiring
inquiries into such areas as ancient history, chemistry, astronomy and
paleontology.
Through the process of discovery, children develop their passion for learning
as they grasp the idea that knowledge has no limits.
This strong academic focus is augmented by collaborative work, as
well as physical education. Lessons in cultural subjects, such as visual,
dramatic and musical arts, are an integral part of the elementary program.
Students also receive instruction in a second language.
Graduates of CMS Elementary are well prepared socially and academically for the
next step in their education. Our students consistently average within the top
10% of all students nationally on standardized tests. Our graduates have gone
on to attend some of the most prestigious secondary schools in the St. Louis
area.
