Elementary School
Élémentaire Curriculum at The Académie
At The Académie, our Élémentaire program builds on the strong foundations established in Maternelle, guiding students toward academic confidence, intellectual curiosity, and global citizenship. Through a bilingual and bicultural approach, students deepen their understanding of themselves, their environment, and the world—in both French and English
Bilingual Learning
- Grades 1–4: 60% French / 40% English
- Grade 5: 50% French / 50% English
Instruction is fully integrated across both languages, allowing students to develop high levels of proficiency while learning core academic content. This gradual balance prepares students for advanced bilingual thinking and academic flexibility.
Spanish is introduced as a third language starting in 4th grade.
Daily Schedule & Learning Time
- School Year: 10 months (August 31– June 16)
- School Hours: 8:20 AM – 3:35 PM
- Breaks: Morning break, lunch, and recess
- No school on Wednesday afternoons, inspired by the Belgian educational model. This time supports student well-being, creativity, extracurricular exploration, and family life, helping students maintain balance and motivation.
Our Educational Approach
The Élémentaire curriculum combines the academic rigor of the French national curriculum with the inquiry-based, student-centered practices of American education. Our pedagogy is inspired by Céline Alvarez, Montessori (classroom organization and materials), Steiner-Waldorf, and competency-based learning (pédagogie par compétences)
Subjects include:
- French & English Language Arts
- Mathematics
- Science
- History–Geography & Social Studies
- Technology
- Hands & Mind Exploration (HME): gardening, sustainability, cultural projects, empathy and citizenship
- Physical Education
- Music & Visual Arts
Project-based learning, hands-on exploration, and interdisciplinary connections encourage students to think critically, collaborate, and apply knowledge meaningfully.
Classes are intentionally small, allowing for individualized support, differentiation, and tutoring when needed. Students are guided by a team of trained bilingual teachers, ensuring continuity, high academic standards, and a supportive learning environment.
Curious Minds & Compassionate Learners
Our Élémentaire students are encouraged to become independent thinkers and caring individuals. Learning in two languages strengthens cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills, and cultural awareness, while daily life in a diverse community nurtures empathy, respect, and collaboration.
Preparing for the Future
The Élémentaire program at The Académie equips students with:
- Strong bilingual and academic skills
- Confidence and autonomy as learners
- A sense of responsibility toward others and the world
- A lasting love for learning
Students leave Élémentaire prepared for Middle School and beyond, ready to thrive in multilingual, multicultural, and ever-changing environments, as we accompany them throughout their entire pre-college journey, with the ambition to progressively offer Middle School and High School programs that ensure continuity, excellence, and long-term academic growth.
