JRA: Elementary

JRA: ELEMENTARY

The elementary division at Julie Rohr Academy includes first through fifth grades.  The subject areas are departmentalized with students rotating among four basic skills teachers and five enrichment teachers.   The elementary program is clearly defined and exceptionally strong.  It is based on the Florida state-approved curriculum and textbooks with additional instructional materials.  The subjects taught are language arts, math, science, social studies, music, physical education, computers, Spanish, and art.

Careful attention is given to staff selection, student placement and evaluation, and scheduling.  The student-teacher ratio averages seven students per teacher.  Most of the elementary teaching staff is Florida-certified and all are a dedicated and caring group of professionals. 

Student placement is initially determined by age. It can be adjusted based on performance, ability, and maturity. Students may occasionally be placed one grade level above or below the grade level for his/her chronological age.

Homework is assigned by the teacher. Maximum daily homework limits are: Grade 1 - 30 minutes; Grades 2 and 3 - 45 minutes Grades 4 and 5 – 60 minutes. Homework is an extension of the student's daily work, including studying for tests, working on projects, and reading for pleasure. Students' basic skills are evaluated by written tests, oral evaluation, and informal assessments.

Responsibility, social skills and values are taught within the framework of the elementary program and are emphasized in the individual classrooms. Students are taught problem-solving techniques and encouraged to use them in social settings. Cooperative learning and critical thinking skills are taught and implemented throughout the day in various lessons.

A positive discipline approach leads to positive social development and interaction. Measures include praise and verbal reinforcement, awards, stickers, stamps, classroom store, trading post, and treasure chest. Items are awarded for desired behavior, proper study skills, following class rules, cooperating with peers and faculty, completing class tasks, etc.