Elementary School (Grades 1-5)

Growing Thinkers, Explorers, and Leaders

Elementary School at The College School is a time of growth and increasing independence. From First through Fifth Grade, students engage in a dynamic, hands-on curriculum that blends academic challenge with creativity, collaboration, and purpose. Guided by expert educators and inspired by real-world connections, students deepen their skills in literacy, math, science, and social studies while also learning to think critically, solve problems, and contribute to their community. With outdoor adventures, thematic projects, and specialist classes woven into every year, our students grow into confident learners who are curious about the world and ready to make an impact.

Core Academic Highlights in Elementary School

Click on any of the grade levels below to see an overview of core academics.

Thematic Learning in Elementary School

At TCS, we use thematic learning across our grades to make education meaningful, connected, and engaging. By weaving subjects together around rich, real-world themes, students see the relevance of what they’re learning, make deeper connections across disciplines, and build skills in critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity.

Learn more about our Elementary Grade Themes below!

Cornerstone Adventures in Elementary School

At The College School, learning extends far beyond the classroom—our students take part in more than 145 day and overnight trips each year. These journeys are not just field trips; they’re deeply connected to the curriculum and designed to bring learning to life. As students progress from grade to grade, these Cornerstone Adventures evolve—growing in length, complexity, and purpose. What begins as a first overnight campout in early grades becomes a multi-day expedition in later years, offering students increasing opportunities for challenge, independence, and personal growth.

See below for an example Adventure from our Elementary grades.

In First Grade, students take part in their first overnight trip at TCS – an important milestone that fosters independence, confidence, and a deepened connection to the natural world. Held at our LaBarque Campus, this overnight adventure includes bird observation, creek exploration, and introductory rock climbing. More than just outdoor fun, the experience invites students to practice perseverance, support one another, and step outside their comfort zones. The pride they feel upon returning to campus is lasting, and the trip lays the foundation for future expeditions, helping students see themselves as capable, curious learners ready for new challenges.

Students take on an even bigger adventure in Second Grade with their first tent camping overnight—an exciting milestone that builds on their growing confidence and love of the outdoors. At our LaBarque Campus, they pitch tents and spend extended time exploring the natural world through activities like creek studies, hikes, and wildlife observation. This experience challenges students to persevere through new situations, lean on each other for support, and push past their comfort zones in a safe, encouraging environment.

One of our favorite student reflections is, “On the Third Grade Campout, I learned I was brave.” The fall campout is a highlight of Third Grade and connects directly to their Community Theme, giving students the chance to discover their place within both their class community and the world. Through our Adventure Education program, students are encouraged to challenge themselves and safely take healthy risks. This experience helps them realize they’re capable of more than they ever imagined—one of the most powerful lessons they can carry forward in their learning journey.

The fall theme for Fourth Grade, States & Stories, immerses students in U.S. geography and history starting from 1619. Through hands-on field experiences, students develop a deeper understanding of important historical figures and events. They build research, presentation, and creativity skills by exploring a specific state and sharing its unique features at the Fourth Grade “State Fair.” As a captone experience, students travel to Springfield, Illinois, for a two-day, one-night learning journey to visit the Lincoln Museum and a colonial campsite. This experience provides engaging, immersive learning that brings history to life.

Each spring, fifth graders embark on a three-day, two-night backpacking and camping adventure in the Ozarks. Carrying their own gear and working together to set up camp and cook meals, students build resilience, teamwork, and self-reliance in a beautiful natural setting. Along the trail, they practice outdoor skills, deepen their appreciation for nature, and gain confidence that prepares them for new challenges ahead, including the five-day, four-night Wilderness Experience in Sixth Grade.

Ready to join our adventures? Learn more about Admissions.