Our Curriculum

Our integrated academic and arts curriculum has been developed to combine our educational philosophy with age appropriate developmental skills. Though not a bilingual school in the traditional sense, our academic program produces students equally comfortable in Spanish and English. We benefit from a collaborative relationship with Spain’s Ministerio de Educación y Cultura  that enhances learning Spanish language and culture. We are also aware that a child’s education goes well beyond books and experiences. A well-rounded student is a positive contributor to his family, his school and community. Therefore, throughout our curriculum and daily school life emphasis is placed on the importance of responsibility and personal character which include friendship, kindness, gratitude, generosity, courtesy, honesty, cooperation, commitment, empathy and respect.

Early Childhood
Early childhood education at C.E.A. consists of our 4- and 5-year-old programs. Music, language (both English and Spanish), and community lay the foundation for our youngest citizens.  Every day, students sing, learn the basics of rhythm, musical notation, and harmony and interact with music. They develop vocabulary in both English and Spanish through word plays, stories, poems, and conversations. They engage in activities and experiences that create the foundation to become strong readers and mathematicians. Much of the instructional material in our K-5 program is of the 1st grade level.  The majority of our K-5 students complete the program as sound readers and are proficient in the basics of addition, subtraction, and problem-solving. Art, creative movement, physical fitness, science, and social studies are taught by methods that develop the necessary skills and attitudes for a lifelong learner. 

Elementary
Elementary students at C.E.A. (Grades 1 – 5) gather the necessary tools that allow them to find success in any avenue they choose to follow.  A love of words and their ability to change the world and ourselves is fostered through exposure to a diverse and wide variety of genres.  Composition is taught through a writing process, encompassing persuasive, descriptive, and expository forms.  Structured grammar is taught to enhance the understanding and function of language.  This course is followed in English and Spanish so that our students are able to read, write, think, and create in both languages.  Our math curriculum functions a full grade level above (1st grade completes what is a typical 2nd grade curriculum, 2nd –the 3rd, and so on) and places a strong emphasis on problem-solving and application.  Our science program focuses on the rudiments of Earth, life, and physical science and involves observation, experimentation, and evaluation techniques. Geography, American history, world history, current events, civics, and conflict resolution are taught in order that we understand our past and our place in the world.  Music takes on a personal note as students learn to create music with recorders and other instruments and continue learning more about the close connection of music to the rhythm of our daily lives and the history of humanity.  Art is a hands-on experience allowing students to develop their unique talents.  Dance offers students the opportunity for self-expression, communication, and creativity.  Physical education and fitness classes stress the importance of nutrition, proper exercise and responsibility for self.  Team sports provide opportunities for growth in discipline, cooperation, good sportsmanship, and the development of mind and body.

Throughout the elementary years special emphasis is placed on discovering the wonders of the world and the special place each of us has in the world.  We encourage students to discover a passion through our Advisory program.  This program (3rd – 5th Grades) is a twice a week, non-graded period where students work together across grade levels in an area they have a natural talent for or are deeply interested in.   This 3-year commitment to a specified area of study allows them to develop stronger skills, self-awareness, independence, and pride in personal accomplishments.  It is during advisory that our Elementary Choir, Junior Dance Advisory, and Cougar Chronicle (our school newspaper) meet.  These advisory classes are but a few that encourage and develop individual needs, talents, and interests.

Middle School
Middle School at C.E.A. (Grades  6- 8) is uniquely designed to meet the challenges of the early teen years.  It gives students the necessary continuity, structure, and security needed for a successful transition from childhood to adolescence.  Emphasis on developing organizational skills, time management, and study skills prepare students for success in high school and later in life.  The Middle School years are spent applying the tools students have acquired in their earlier years.  Critical thinking, problem/resolution methods, resourcefulness, discourse, and development of individual passions are at the heart of all of our classes.  During these years students develop an appreciation and understanding for both literary classics as well as contemporary authors.  They write for authentic purposes and use their linguistic abilities in both English and Spanish to communicate ideas and dreams.  Exposure to world history, American history, civics, geography and current events allows students ample opportunities to practice and discuss the importance of civic and personal responsibility.  Individual courses in Earth science, life science and physical science set a foundation that enables students to excel in high school science courses.  General math and Algebra I courses complete the basic education students need to enter advanced level mathematics courses.  Art, music, jazz, physical fitness, and religion classes continue to build on the elementary foundation and are geared to active participation as well as appreciation.

Daily Advisory courses at the Middle School level are intensive and demanding.  Students are expected to make a 3 year commitment to a course of study that excites them.  From the distinctive student-run magazine group which creates Conchita to our award-winning artists to CTV (our student directed and produced daily news program) to our talented and skilled Senior Dance Advisory to Track and Field, and many others – each CEA student finds a place to follow dreams, ignite passions and develop strengths that might otherwise go untapped.

Middle School affords students the opportunity to develop leadership skills, compassion, service, self-awareness, and pride through extra-curricular clubs and activities.  National Jr. Honor Society, Service Club, Student Council and Amor en Acción are open to students meeting the specific qualifications and requirements for each club.