Mooreland Hill begins its 80th year

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September 1st, 2010 Kathryn

Mooreland Hill School marked its 80th year when school opened on September 1. New for the first time in the school’s laudatory history of educating middle school children is the introduction of the 4/5 Multi-age Group Program (MAG). Forming a developmental bridge between childhood and adolescence, MAG offers students a unique opportunity to become effective learners and independent thinkers. Capitalizing on the natural enthusiasm and curiosity of young learners, our two primary teachers teach skills and habits essential for life-long learning.

Program Highlights

A/B year thematic cycle to ensure no repetition in core subjects
Developmentally appropriate groupings in Reading and Mathematics
Dedicated attention of two master teachers

The Structure

Fourth and Fifth grade students will find the structure of the program familiar and inviting. The class has its own homeroom and two primary teachers who supervise and teach this grade. They are responsible for language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, and Human Growth and Development. The primary teachers have discretion to schedule class time as necessary to deliver the curriculum most effectively.

Other Mooreland Hill faculty members work with students in foreign languages, music, art, and physical education. In addition, our multi-age group (MAG) students have the opportunity to interact with all members of the student body in a variety of ways from music and choral rehearsals and performances to all-school activities. Older students serve as Big Brothers or Big Sisters to the MAG students. This level of integration insures that students in the program become familiar with and acclimated to the entire community and campus and create lasting relationships.

The process oriented program follows a two-year thematic cycle. By staying in the same classroom for a two-year period, children develop a strong sense of community and stability, with ½ of a class returning every year. This community aids the development of students as role models for one another. Older children model more sophisticated approaches to problem solving, and younger children are able to accomplish tasks they could not do without the assistance of older children. This dynamic increases the older child’s level of independence and competence.

Each school day begins with an all-school morning meeting at 7:55 a.m. The day concludes at 2:45 p.m. Monday through Friday. After care is available from 2:45 to 4:00 p.m. for an additional fee.

Course of Study