The principle goal of education is to create men and women who are capable of doing new things, not simply of repeating what other generations have done - men who are creative, inventive, and discoverers.
-Jean Piaget
The Cypress School Of Austin now offers first through fifth grade.
Language-
At the Cypress School of Austin, each day students spend time learning phonics skills, playing language games in small groups, and reading. We use a combination of curriculums to teach children how to read: Abeka and Fundations provide a strong phonics base, Heggerty allows students to practice phonemic awareness, and grammar is taught through Abeka and multisensory Montessori materials.
Each day children listen to fiction and non-fiction literature. Students are inspired by beloved authors and books to develop a love of reading.
At The Cypress School we use a combination of curriculums to round out our language program. Students practice handwriting with Handwriting Without Tears materials, Zaner-Bloser and Abeka handwriting curriculums. Children begin to learn how to write in cursive in second grade. We use The Good and Beautiful curriculum for this.
Students participate in a reader's workshop model to become strong, fluent, confident readers.
Math-
Using manipulatives and hands-on materials are essential for young learners to grasp the foundational number sense skills required for higher levels of math. In the elementary grades at The Cypress School students will actively engage in Abeka Math lessons that encourage them to use mathematical reasoning, problem-solving skills, and master concepts of math well beyond the grade standards. Children use a variety of Montessori multisensory manipulatives as well as materials from Australia and Finland.
Daily students will actively participate in lessons that encourage them to think about math in many ways. We use Numberblocks, SumBlox, as well as Numicon materials and lessons. They will develop number sense that will help them conceptualize numbers and value.
Students will also use Happy Numbers and Synthesis on classroom technology to advance their problem solving and mathematic skills.
Students develop a true love for math when it is hands-on and fun!
Science and Social Studies-
Children are naturally curious and want to know the "hows," "whys," and "whats" of the world. At The Cypress School, we use these natural wonders to dive deep into topics and themes that students love! In science, students will learn about topics such as the solar system, weather, community, dinosaurs, garden life, life cycles, animals across the globe, insects, different cultures, and many other areas of interest. We also utilize an inquiry based approach to dive deep and learn more about the topics our students show interest in.
In our elementary classrooms, teachers will provide provocations or invitations for the children to engage with. These provocations are intended to spark interests in the children. We incorporate the Reggio Emilia philosophy which believes in using the classroom itself as a teacher. Our days are planned to allow plenty of time for authentic learning and play. The Reggio Emilia philosophy and Cypress School believe that children do best when they are engaged and interested in the topic. Through the use of provocations and invitations, children can dive into learning about new topics and deepen their knowledge of the world around them.
In our elementary multi-age classrooms, children have two outdoor recess times as well as Choice Time every day. Children also attend Spanish, Music, and Art twice per week.
Tuition Rates:
(These are yearly rates. Parents have four options when paying tuition: a 10 month plan, a 12 month plan, paying two times a year, or paying in full.)
