Lower Schools

The Lower Schools lay a strong foundation for our youngest students. A balanced approach to literacy development includes reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Children’s independent reading levels are assessed throughout the school year to ensure each child is instructed at the appropriate level. Certified teachers guide students to read in small groups and independently, using leveled books, children’s literature, and novels. Intentionally planned activities increase children’s comprehension, accuracy, fluency and vocabulary skills. Individual classroom libraries and dedicated school libraries provide a rich variety of reading materials that inspire and encourage children to become lifelong readers. During Writing Workshop children learn skills through mini lessons and have the opportunity to practice and hone these skills independently. Teachers conference with students weekly to set goals and monitor progress. Children at the Lower Schools evolve into effective communicators in preparation for Middle School and beyond.

Middle and Upper Schools

Both the Beaches and St. Mark’s Campus English departments lay a strong foundation for the young Episcopal student. Emphasizing a balanced approach, the aligned K-5 curricula help students flourish in language arts skills with the goal of establishing a lifelong intellectual process of finding and creating meaning. In preparation for middle school and beyond, students evolve into effective writers and speakers by reading critically, listening effectively, and analyzing and evaluating a variety of texts. Talented and devoted faculty use thoughtfully designed, research-based programs to collaborate with and challenge students and foster engaged, reflective, and strategic learners.

This growth continues in the discussion-based English curriculum on the Munnerlyn campus, preparing students to communicate their ideas with confidence and clarity. Passionate, experienced educators in grades 6-12 use their expertise to guide students as they explore a rich range of classical and contemporary texts in a college preparatory environment. Our learner-centered classroom environment fosters civil discourse and engagement with literature and the ways in which it intersects with students’ lives and the human condition. We are committed to helping our students develop the critical reading, writing, and thinking skills that prepare them for success, both in and beyond the classroom.