ENRICHMENT

Drama and theatre classes gives our students the opportunity to explore their imaginations, voices and bodies through various theater games and exercises. Research has shown that drama in the primary grades is not only fun, but also an excellent way of increasing self-esteem, communication, problem solving and cooperation. Students focus on skills such as body movement, vocal awareness, and characterization.

Through games, improv exercises, and acting out familiar stories, students build confidence and presence. Students ultimately learn about the use of props, space on the stage and performance through reader’s theater, short scenes, and stage productions.

From fine motor skills, to creativity, to improved emotional balance, behavior and critical thinking, the arts should be an integral part of any education. At The Learning Academy, we strive to offer our students opportunities to express themselves creatively every day. All grade levels include art courses that incorporate learning about the masters and art history, and delve into art projects using varying mediums – from clay to paint to found objects. All students are artists here.

Living History brings learning about our past to life with hands-on activities that correlate with various events in history. Clothing styles, pastimes and handicrafts are brought in and recreated by students, assisting them in sensing what everyday life was like during certain periods in history. Examples include making beeswax candles, making and carving tools, cutting, tooling and oiling leather journals, constructing a homesteader’s cabin, and making moccasins.

Students take part in mindfulness classes and weekly meditation sessions. Benefits include self-regulation, improved focus, and the ability to calm and center busy minds.