Elementary

E1: Lower Elementary

1st-3rd grade

E2: Upper Elementary

4th-6th grade

ELEMENTARY 1st - 6th Grade

In Elementary, there is an emphasis on the development of independence, self-advocacy, and working with others. Each day starts with a morning work time, which includes the faith formation, small group lessons, and uninterrupted work time to explore interests and complete projects. Lunch and recess are followed by an afternoon work time that often includes a read-aloud, physical education, art, music, special activities, and addition practice of core subjects.

PROGRAM OPTIONS

5 - Day Private Academy

Our full-time private academy incorporates best educational practices drawing not only from the Montessori method but other educational models such as classical. With the Montessori method, materials, and grace and courtesy as our leading compass and roadmap, we continue to look for today’s constructivist practices that can be incorporated to create an atmosphere of relevance and excellence for our students. Students have purposeful work today and are prepared for tomorrow.

3 - Day Homeschool Program

The Elementary 3-Day homeschool program is a program designed for home-educated students in 1st through 6th grade. It offers a unique blend of two educational models – homeschooling and academy – providing the best of both worlds. This homeschooling partnership allows children to be part of a consistent school community for three days a week and spend the remaining two days learning with their parents at home. It also allows parents to maintain the primary responsibility for their child’s education at home while receiving support, accountability, and encouragement. This model has produced proven results and rewards.

AREAS OF LEARNING

FAITH

Dr. Montessori used the term “Atrium,” derived from the gathering place for worship in the early Christian church, to describe the spiritual environment that is carefully set up and prepared for the children to proclaim the message of Jesus, teach the lessons Jesus taught, and focus on the Word and worship. Each of our environments houses an altar, religious work, and biblical lessons through which the children can express their faith in Christ.

Practical Life

Practical Life at the Elementary level focuses on skills that connect children with their interests in the outside world, help them organize their time, and participate in their community. While self-care and appropriate social interactions are still supported, the emphasis is on teaching responsibility.

Math

Montessori math materials provide children with hands-on, visual, and tactile learning aids to understand abstract concepts on a deeper level. In Elementary, we introduce new purposes for familiar math materials to help children consider mathematical concepts, operations, and complex functions, ultimately expanding their advanced mathematical knowledge and understanding.

Language Arts

Reading and writing are essential to all subjects in a Montessori Elementary environment. Using these skills, students share their ideas through formal and informal presentations, express their interests and satisfy their curiosity. The Montessori language materials are designed for children to explore the intricacies of written and spoken language, helping elementary students master grammar, writing conventions, and spelling.

* In the homeschool program, some content is taught at home.

Cultural Studies

Montessori Cultural Studies include geography, history, biology, botany, geology, physical and life sciences. Through culture, children explore the interconnectedness and interdependence of living things. World history is presented through storytelling using “The Story of the World.”

Fine Arts

The Fine Arts are integral to learning at Hand in Hand. Children are provided with rich opportunities to experience music, dance, literature, and art. Involvement in the arts helps children find meaningful expression.

The greatest gifts we can give our children are the roots of responsibility and the wings of independence. Dr. Maria Montessori

What are your school hours?

Office hours: 8:00AM - 4:00PM Infant and toddler program hours: 7:30AM - 5:30PM School-age hours: Before School Care: 7:30AM - 8:15AM Curbside Drop-Off: 8:15AM - 8:45AM School Day: 8:45AM - 3:15PM Curbside Pick-Up: 3:15PM - 3:30PM After School Care: 3:30PM - 5:00PM Hours of Operation for School Year 2025/2026 Effective September 2, 2025, the hours of operation for our campus (including the Nido program) will change to 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. This adjustment is being made due to staffing needs and consistently low demand for extended hours. We appreciate your understanding and continued support.
Do you offer before and after school care?

Yes, we offer before and aftercare for our school-aged program (Preschool - 6th Grade). The details are as follows: Before Care: 7:30 AM - 8:15 AM After Care: 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM Before and Aftercare is available on all regular school days. Please note that alternative care is not available on days with early dismissal or other non-school days such as holidays, breaks, and conference days. The program is play-based, providing an enriching environment for children outside of regular school hours.
Do you offer bus transportation?

Highcroft does not currently offer bus transportation. For the 2024 - 25 school year, Highcroft will offer transportation from our Bloomington campus.
Do you require uniforms?

Yes, HIHCM requires a simple uniform. Our simple uniforms are beneficial because they ... Promote cohesiveness in the student body. Schools nationwide are welcoming diversity into their student body, with a wide range of backgrounds and different economic status. At Highcroft, we strive to create an environment where all children feel welcome and safe. Provide an appropriate standard of dress. Uniforms offer an added layer of protection for the children and staff by ensuring all clothing is appropriate for school. Reduce the cost of "school clothes." Families may purchase uniforms from the store of their choosing. Affordable options include: School uniform sales, Target, Old Navy, Children's Place, used clothing stores, and many other retail options. Allow younger children the opportunity for independence by dressing themselves. Children often find it is easier to have only a few options to select from that are school appropriate, as some children get overwhelmed by having to choose from a large selection. Help eliminate distractions. Wearing a uniform helps to eliminate distractions caused by current fashion trends.
Do you have required homework?

Preschool and Kindergarten: there is no required homework, but parents are encouraged to read with their children or have them read to you. Elementary (1st - 6th grade): there is no required homework, but children are encouraged to read and practice math facts daily. On occasion, there may be an assignment that the parents are requested to assist with at home. Highschool: each day there is required homework, although there is an open hour where students are encouraged to complete their homework. Generally, the students complete most of their homework at school or have minimal homework.
Do you offer a foreign language?

Latin is infused into core lessons in 1st - 6th grade.
Does HIHCM complete standardized testing?

All K - high school students enrolled in our 5-day academy complete a yearly standardized test. Homeschool students have the option of completing the standardized test through HIHCM or independently. Standardized tests give feedback to teachers, administrators, students and parents and help them further support the students needs.
Is technology used?

Preschool - Kindergarten: During the school day children do not use technology in the classroom Elementary 1st - 6th grade: Students have minimal access to Chromebooks for supporting their learning. The main use of technology is for research and typing. Highschool: Students either have their own laptop or have access to a school Chromebook when needed to complete an assignment. It is a secondary learning tool as technology is not the primary source of learning. The school highly values safety when using technology and have applications in place to ensure safe technology use.