Learning at The Well
The Well School consists of a preschool (ages 3 to 5 in two classes), a Lower School (Kindergarten through 4th Grade), and an Upper School (5th through 8th Grades). At the most basic level, our students learn that kindness, cooperation, and respect are part of all we do, both inside and outside of the classroom, as well as within the school environment and out in the larger community. In addition, woven throughout The Well's curriculum is an emphasis on opportunities for collaboration, exploration, and leadership.
To read about the Preschool, Lower School, and Upper School in detail, use the menu at left or buttons at right.
collaboration
exploration
leadership
Collaboration
Students often work together in groups, both within their classes and across grade levels. From the "reading buddies" program that pairs young students with older students to class hikes to mixed-age theater productions or athletic teams, collaborative efforts create lasting connections and a strong sense of community. All-school meeting on Fridays after lunch also fosters a sense of collaboration and community, and can solidify the friendly relationships students build across grade levels.
Exploration
While our curriculum covers all the essentials—reading, math, science, history, arts, and humanities—it also provides opportunities for a wide range of experiences, from trying various forms of visual and performing arts (such as mural painting, above) to taking overnight camping trips. The Well's approach encourages every student to try everything, but also allows children to deeply explore areas of personal interest. Students learn that trying something new doesn't necessarily mean they ultimately have to be good at it, but that exploration is key to discovering strengths and addressing weaknesses, as well as broadening horizons.
Leadership
Every student has opportunities for leadership throughout the school year. Within each grade level, roles exist for leadership among peers, with students rotating through various positions to assist their teachers and classmates with the work and transitions of the daily routine. As students grow older, the leadership expectation grows and broadens, with Upper School students taking on daily jobs, including supervisory roles, that contribute to the upkeep of the school. Children of all ages earn increasing levels of freedom and responsibility as they progress from one grade to the next.