In the Lower School, we are reminded daily that all of our children have unique voices, some booming and some very soft. Our job is to make sure all voices and points of view are respectfully heard. Our efforts at Staten Island Academy may nurture future leaders who dialogue peacefully and understand many people beyond their immediate spheres. We believe in the power of education and the changes that can occur in the world because of a thoughtful approach to learning. We understand the responsibility that must be attached to educating the whole child.

Pre-K and Kindergarten
Pre-K children sit in a circle with their hands and arms extended on the floor in front of them. They discover the magnificent range of skin colors their class represents and learn how they share many similarities as well as differences. A Kindergarten study looks at family and all the configurations that families may posses. They understand that families can look very different, but all are united toward working together and supporting each other. A bread study brings good tastes and diversity into the classroom, as family members demonstrate their cultural breads. The children broaden their palates and have fun baking these delightful treats.

Grade 1
The Grade 1 children begin to question gender stereotypes after their teacher reads Charlotte Zolotow’s marvelous book, William’s Doll, about a young boy who desperately wants a doll and a wise grandmother who understands why he needs to have one. They enjoy exploring diversity on a scientific plane as they study life in the sea. The children begin to understand their role as stewards of their Earth.

Grade 2
As the Grade 2 children explore their world through photographic images, they learn that although we all may be looking at the same thing, our lenses see different points of view. As they look at the Cinderella tale around the world, they not only interpret cultural variances, but encounter gender stereotyping. What a worthy lesson at a tender age.

Grade 3
Through an immigration study, the Grade 3 children explore the grown-up word, xenophobia, and construct how the word applies to forced migration, early immigration in the 19th century, and the ways that our government grapples with current immigration issues. Grade 3 children explore the current issues of child labor, and as young activists, contribute to the Pennies for Peace program that sponsors education for girls in Afghanistan.

Grade 4
Grade 4 children begin an in-depth study of the Silk Road. They look at the beginnings of many of our current world religions, music, languages, and trade habits. The children look at a part of their world, currently in severe turmoil, which was once fairly united by the exchange of ideas and goods. As the children turn to our shores, they view the indigenous group of Eastern Woodland Indians and observe the immense, and in some ways devastating, effect of the European encounter.