Program Descriptions

Lower grade classes (K-3) visit the library every week and upper grades (4-6) every other week. During their library visits, students receive an orientation to the library, a review on how to take care of and check out books, and are exposed to a variety of quality books through read-aloud. Students in Grades 1-6 are able to spend time in the library during recess, except Mondays, to read quietly. Grades K-2 may check out one book at a time and Grades 3-6 may check out two books at a time. Students need to bring their library books to school on their class library day. On the morning of this day, readers may renew their book(s) by placing a visible paper bookmark or green renewal slip inside their book(s).  Library for the TK classroom begins in the spring!

Zappo's music program for grades TK-3 is primarily focused on having fun with our voices, learning new songs, and enjoying the many benefits of singing together in community. Students also learn about rhythm through body percussion and movement games. Students will be introduced to songs that promote joy and kindness, honor their inner strength, and support environmental and social justice.

Zappo's art curriculum covers all the elements of art: line, form, value, color, space, and texture. Students explore the vast array of mediums available in the vibrant art room as they make their way through an engaging, gorgeous and diverse library of art projects. Our young artists will be encouraged to find their own creative voice, while also being challenged to try out new techniques and styles that may at first feel less comfortable. Most of all, students have FUN while making our world a more beautiful place, one project at a time!

Students will develop fundamental motor skills, coordination, and sports-specific skills through a variety of sports, such as pickleball, basketball, team handball, ultimate Frisbee and more. Using different drills and games, students develop their skills in a fun and supportive environment. We work on team building, sportsmanship and understanding fair play. Csilla hopes to encourage enjoyment and enthusiasm for physical activity, leading to a lifelong appreciation for sports and fitness.

Seele Stars, an award-winning, local Children's Musical Theater Company taught by credentialed teacher Rachel Seele, is joining the Kensington Community for performing arts classes this fall! Ms. Seele will be teaching the 4th-6th graders skills through musical theater like singing, dancing, and acting. Classes and rehearsals include ensemble building, interactive warm ups, vocal warm ups, acting games, etc. Students work toward the goal of a public fall performance! By the end of the program, students will have experienced the opportunity to increase self-confidence and learn other lifelong skills that will help them both on and off the stage.

Ms. Debbie has a three-year rotation in Science Lab: Physical, Life, and Earth. This year is a Life Science year. We will be starting out by examining bones from all kinds of different animals, then focus on human skeletons, muscles, most of the systems and body parts - what they are and how they work. Through the year we'll study many other organisms: animals, plants, and even microbes. The KEF Science Lab curriculum is designed to supplement the district science standards taught by the classroom teachers.

The STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) program, run by Ms. Dara, will give K-3 students opportunities to participate in hands-on projects where they will develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills, hone their creativity, and practice a growth mindset. They will collaborate with peers and strengthen their communication skills. By shifting student learning from a teacher-directed model to a student-discovery and creation model, we are developing and fostering the future of the professional world.

The Reading Support team provides Reading Lab for students who need extra support to improve their reading, writing, fluency and comprehension. We work with students in grades 1 to 6 in small groups by grade level to give them more individualized attention.

For students who are interested in math and are looking for an opportunity to develop their skills in a collaborative environment, Mr. Brad teaches advanced problem-solving strategies with problem sets each week. Throughout the year, students compete in organized Math Olympiad competitions. 

This parent volunteer coordinated program takes place on weekday mornings before school and is a fantastic way for energetic kids to get their wiggles out before entering the classroom. Students arrive at 8:00 am in the lower school yard, collect their Running Club badge, and start running. With each lap, their badge gets scanned, and they collect charms and prizes as they go! 

Playtime is kids’ time. But schools can and should create play environments that help kids be their best. Studies show that recess matters: a thoughtful approach to recess improves children’s physical health and social and emotional learning. Playworks helps schools and districts make the most of recess through on-site staffing, consultative support, professional development, free resources, and more.