Roots Microschool Elementary Program
Kindergarten through 5th Grade
The Roots Microschool Elementary Program is informed by both place and our natural environment. Through a combination of study in individual subjects and project based learning, Roots Microschool students are introduced to all required subject areas as well as social emotional and physical wellness in equal measure.
Our Daily Rhythm is designed as a container for learning, offering flexibility to continue exploring a subject if students are feeling inspired or to take a pause and recalibrate our minds and bodies if need be.
In addition to an hour of dedicated time outdoors, any and all parts of the daily rhythm may take place in nature. So far this year, our Elementary students spend an average of 3 hours a day outdoors!, with the exception of Friday’s where our learning has us outdoors all day. As a program rooted in Place, it is essential to give our students ample opportunity to spend time in the natural environment and community outside of the four walls of our classroom.
Our Daily Rhythm
8:45 to 9:00am - Arrival
9:00 to 9:15am - Morning Gathering
Our time together will always start and end the same way: with an opportunity for students to share, connect with one another, celebrate successes and offer support through challenges. Discussion around the day’s activities, universal themes, or presentation of lessons will also take place.
9:15 to 10:30am - Focused Subject Work
10:30 to 11:00am - Brain Break
A chance for each student to stretch, move, and engage with their choice of materials, either independently or with others.
11:00am to 12:00pm - Focused Subject Work / Enrichment (Music, Art, Language)
12:00pm to 12:30pm - Lunch and Quiet Time
Lunchtime activities may include listening to music or a podcast, teacher read aloud, or group conversation.
12:30pm to 1:30pm - Dedicated Outdoor Time (including access to Maker station, gardening, literature resources, and free play.
1:30pm to 2:45pm - Focused Subject Work / Enrichment (Physical Education, Yoga + Mindfulness)
2:45pm to 3:00pm - Community Clean Up + Closing Circle
3:00pm to 3:15pm - Pick Up
