Core Academics
Mars Elementary is a preschool to Second Grade elementary school. They are committed to making every child’s early education experience positive and productive. Our highly qualified staff develops students to be self-directed and a lifelong learner, who demonstrates personal competencies in academic achievement, technology, and citizenship. Mars services a highly diverse student population that makes their school environment rich with culture, talents, interests, abilities, skills, and needs.
Developmental Learning
- Teachers are aware that students, particularly at this young age level, learn at different paces and in different ways.
- Instruction is matched to the particular stage of development for each child.
- ​Special programs and classrooms are in place for learners who are delayed or need extra assistance.
Behavior and Safety
- PBIS implemented multi-tiered framework with proven practices that improve behavioral and academic outcomes for students.
- All students have the right to a safe school environment.
- We have a positive behavior plan that focuses on treating others with respect and kindness while being responsible for our own actions.
- Our discipline program is founded on the belief that children can learn to be in charge of their behavior at a young age (Inappropriate behavior is a result of making poor choices).
- Students participate in saying a daily pledge focusing on responsibility and pillars of character.
- Our school's social work program assists students in learning how to make appropriate decisions.
Reading
- Readers Workshop model focusing on mini lessons, independent reading, small group work and conferencing, workshop teaching, and sharing.
- Reading readiness programs offer phonemic awareness activities that provide the base for future student success.
- Reading is taught in a workshop model that includes a combination of the whole group, small group, and individual instruction based on student needs.
- Phonics/decoding skills, fluency, vocabulary building, and comprehension strategies are all emphasized.
- A language immersion program called GrapeSEED is used in our preschool, kindergarten, and English as a second language classrooms.
Writing
- Writing Workshop model focusing on mini lessons, independent writing, small group work and conferencing, workshop teaching and sharing.
- The Mars writing approach emphasizes the stages through which young writers progress from formulating letters, to words, sentences and paragraphs.
- As students become more fluent, they intentionally improve their skills in the mechanics of spelling, punctuation, and grammar.
Mathematics
- The "Bridges to Mathematics" program provides hands-on activities in a combination of traditional and applied math.
- Students develop skills in data collection/analysis, critical thinking, logic, geometry, integrated calendar activities as well as basic math facts and number sentences.
Science
- PLTW (Project Lead the Way) empowers students to adopt a design-thinking mindset through compelling activities projects and problem solving skills.
- Focused on computer science, engineering and biomedical science.
- Science instruction provides active, hands-on exploration to help students understand the world around them.
Social Studies
- Literature based lessons help students understand their role in family, community, and their surrounding environment.
- Hands-on activities focused on Myself & Others, Families & Schools, and The Local Community
Technology
One-to-one technology
Technology is integrated throughout every student's day.
iPads/laptops, document cameras, interactive whiteboards, and various types of listening centers are used on a daily basis.
Extension/enrichment activities are available to all students through a virtual portal.
Beyond Academics
- A full of range of fine arts/health programs are provided on a daily basis.
- Physical education, visual arts, music, technology, and library skills add to our academic offerings intended to develop a well-educated student.
