Upper Elementary School
Where young learners grow with confidence and creativity. (Grades 3–5)
Our Upper Elementary program spans Grades 3–5, pivotal years for developing strong academic skills, independence, and a lifelong love of learning. During this stage, students become confident, curious learners while still benefiting from close guidance, enriching specials, and cherished school traditions.
- A Rich Curriculum: Core academics are complemented by Art, Music, Athletics, Technology, Spanish, and hands-on learning experiences that help students apply classroom concepts in meaningful and practical ways.
- Learning Through Inquiry: Using our Palmas Inquiry Unit Planner, students explore meaningful questions through research, collaboration, presentations, field experiences, and hands-on projects. Learning takes place in a variety of settings and encourages students to make connections across subjects and to the world around them.
- Growing Dolphins: The Dolphin Learner Profile is woven into daily learning, helping students become communicators, principled leaders, courageous problem-solvers, flexible thinkers, and lifelong learners who contribute positively to their communities.
- Building Independence: Grades 3–5 are an important bridge between childhood and adolescence. Students gradually take greater ownership of their learning, strengthen organizational and study skills, and develop the confidence needed for success in Middle School and beyond.
- Special Traditions: From Puerto Rico Day and the Book Fair to Field Day, performances, service opportunities, and other community celebrations, our traditions create lasting memories while strengthening school spirit and meaningful connections.
- Small, Supportive Community: With close teacher-student relationships, every child is known, challenged, and supported. Our educators work alongside families to help each child thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
Program Spotlight
Learning by Doing
Students explore ideas through projects, collaboration, hands-on experiences, and real-world problem-solving.
Growing Together
As learners take greater ownership of their learning, they build confidence, responsibility, and leadership skills.
Being Creative
Through art, music, technology, presentations, and inquiry-based learning, students express ideas and discover new passions.
Life as an Upper Elementary Dolphin
No two days look exactly the same. A student might spend the morning collaborating on an inquiry project, participating in a House activity, rehearsing for a performance, competing in athletics, showcasing learning through a presentation, or exploring Puerto Rico’s culture, history, and environment through experiential learning opportunities. These experiences help students discover their strengths while building confidence, responsibility, and independence.
