Students work together to refine their writing skills, putting their original ideas onto paper.
A Day in Lower School—Elementary
A day in Calhoun’s Lower School—Elementary is made up of carefully-structured routines, which support academic risk taking and joyful learning. Dedicated blocks of work time allow students to develop new skills, practice problem solving, and discover their passions. Teachers are also deliberate in creating a secure environment in which children can explore activities outside of their comfort zone.
Daily Schedule
Third through fifth graders are in class from 8:30am-3pm.
Calhoun’s schedule is built on a six-day rotation; activities and classes are not linked to the days of the week, but rotate through days one through six. This structure ensures that a day of classes isn’t missed when a holiday occurs.
Drop-In Care and After School Programs
Early drop-off care is available starting at 7:30am for 3rd-5th graders.
Calhoun’s After School Program (ASP) offers a wide range of choices for after-school activities for Calhoun students, 3's through 8th grade. Additional drop-in care and extended day services are available through Calhoun’s ASP program. Learn more.
Lunch Program
Students at the 81st Street building enjoy nutritious meals as part of Calhoun’s “Eat Right Now” lunch program. Students are welcome to bring their own nut-free lunch to school.
Beyond the Classroom
Teachers frequently organize trips outside of school to deepen the learning experience and engagement of our students. Students take field trips to nearby parks and museums, or various locations around the city related to their studies.
In 4th grade, children take their first overnight trip as Calhoun students to Black Rock Forest.
Interdisciplinary learning makes for exciting discoveries. A collaboration between Woodshop and PE gave students the chance to innovate and refine their creations.
In theater, Calhouners work collaboratively to write their own original plays touching on themes that are important to them.
Dedicated teachers support student development by building a rich curriculum around their interests.
New York is Calhoun’s largest classroom and field trips offer students the opportunity to see their studies in action.
Exciting instruction and the use of manipulatives give students the opportunity to expand their mathematical thinking and problem solving skills.
Our Curriculum
Third through fifth graders learn through a collaborative curriculum that nurtures and challenges them to learn and grow as individuals.
Calhoun Clusters
Each student is part of a “cluster,” a Calhoun term for a class of 10-15 students who spend their day working, exploring and learning together. Students travel as a cluster group to different subject teachers, but meet at the beginning and end of each day with their cluster teacher.
Parent/Teacher Partnership
Parents are welcomed into the school as partners in the children's education. Calhoun parents are encouraged to take part in the life and community of the school by visiting the classroom, joining class field trips, or volunteering.