Grades 1 and 2

In our Lower School (Grades 1–5), students grow in a vibrant, hands‑on learning environment grounded in our character pillars of Scholarship, Respect, Integrity, Courage, and Community — and supported by intentionally small class sizes (12:1), active classrooms, and personalized attention.

Continue reading for more information on our Grades 1 and 2 curriculum and what makes it unique.

Curriculum

English Language Arts (ELA)

Where Stories Spark Knowledge

Literacy is the anchor of early learning. Using the Arts & Letters (Great Minds) program, students dive into authentic stories, art, and nonfiction while building strong reading, writing, speaking, and listening foundations.

How Sage Ridge Teaches

Authentic texts anchor every lesson.
Literacy skills are fully integrated, not isolated.
Students build deep knowledge and curiosity early.

How Other Schools Teach

Skills-based instruction with leveled or basal readers.
Reading, writing, and speaking taught separately.

Why It Matters

Young readers grow into confident communicators with rich vocabulary and strong comprehension — essential for long-term academic success.

Reading & Phonics

Vocabulary

Math

Building Problem Solvers From Day One

How Sage Ridge Teaches

Math in Focus (Singapore Math) builds conceptual understanding through concrete → pictorial → abstract learning.

How Other Schools Teach

Traditional methods prioritize memorization over understanding.

Why It Matters

Students become confident problem-solvers who understand mathematical relationships deeply.

Science

Social Studies

Art, Music & P.E.

How This Addition Enhances the Lower School Experience

With the launch of Grades 1 and 2, Sage Ridge now offers a fully integrated Grades 1–12 learning journey where younger students benefit from the same joyful, hands‑on, whole‑child approach that defines the Lower School: small classes, strong community, and vibrant learning environments designed to nurture curiosity and confidence from day one.