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The classroom atmosphere maintains an attitude of respect for each individual student. The Montessori elementary student is not held back by the curriculum of his grade level, but is encouraged to go as far as he is able, making choices and learning at his own pace. He keeps a daily journal of his achievements, and the teacher has periodic conferences with him to help him work effectively in all areas of the curriculum and ensure that he is working at a level commensurate with his capabilities.
Each spring an assessment is administered to all elementary students in grades 2 and above. This is one of the tools teachers use to assess areas of difficulty for a particular child or the class in general.
The Montessori environment accommodates the elementary child's need to socialize. He is free to work where and with whom he chooses and to converse with others, sharing information and ideas. Often students work on a project in small groups and make decisions about each student's contribution to a cooperative effort. Since the children encounter one another more often than in most traditional schools, they have many opportunities to practice social skills and resolve conflicts.
Countryside's elementary students perform in a children's opera. In addition, the class participates in overnight trips away from school.
The Countryside elementary student is exceptionally well-prepared to utilize the resources of any educational institution he will subsequently attend.
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