Cottage School - Specials

From Mrs. Michelle Dalrymple:

The CSP Art program aims to provide a positive and enriching experience for students, fostering their development as observant and attentive artists while nourishing their appreciation for truth, beauty, and goodness in art. ​ The curriculum spans kindergarten through sixth grade, introducing students to foundational art concepts such as line families, color theory, texture, space, value, shapes and form. Each grade level builds upon previous knowledge, incorporating diverse artistic styles, techniques, and cultural influences. Students explore works by renowned artists like Vincent van Gogh, Leonardo da Vinci, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Michelangelo, while engaging in hands-on activities such as painting, drawing, clay art, printing, and collage-making.

The program also emphasizes art from various civilizations and cultures, including Native American, African, Asian, Middle Eastern, and Ancient Greek and Roman art. As students progress, they delve deeper into art history and techniques, studying art movements like Renaissance, Classical, Romanticism, Baroque, Impressionism, and Modern art. The curriculum also integrates nature observations, still life, and self-portraiture, encouraging students to connect with the world around them. By incorporating Core Knowledge, the program ensures a comprehensive and structured approach to art education, inspiring creativity and a lifelong appreciation for artistic expression. ​

From Mrs. Jennifer Socolofsky:

In K–6 music classes, students are immersed in a rich, classical education approach to music. We focus on singing, foundational music skills, and age-appropriate music theory. Students explore rhythm, melody, and musical notation while developing their listening and performance abilities. Throughout the year, we prepare and present concerts that showcase what we've learned.

We also study classical composers and their works, connecting music history to broader cultural and historical themes. Students have opportunities to play classroom instruments and experience music through movement and dance when appropriate to the song or culture we're studying. My goal is to instill a lifelong appreciation of music and to cultivate creativity, discipline, and joy through musical learning.

At the heart of our music education is the pursuit of truth, beauty, and goodness. These transcendentals shape our study, encouraging students to recognize order and harmony in music, to appreciate the beauty of well-crafted works, and to grow in personal discipline, attentiveness, and wonder. Music class is not only a place of artistic expression, but also a formative space where character and virtue are nurtured through the fine arts.

From Coach Kristen Anderson:

It is my pleasure to walk alongside your students as they grow and mature in the areas of coordination, curiosity, character, and athletic ability. In Physical Education, we explore obvious character traits such as teamwork, fairness, sportsmanship, and perseverance, as well as less obvious ones that emerge naturally through our various P.E. lessons.

My goal as your student’s P.E. teacher is to help them develop an active and healthy lifestyle by combining their growing physical abilities with cognitive thinking skills. Physical education uses a variety of sporting activities as a vehicle to accomplish this.

Our P.E. units vary by grade level, but often include soccer, basketball, frisbee, and nutrition education, as well as backyard, playground, and holiday-themed games. Older students will have the opportunity to explore pickleball, volleyball, and physical fitness testing.  All that’s required from students is a positive attitude, consistent effort, and athletic shoes.

At our core, we aim to partner with parents to nurture each student in mind, body, and spirit. One of the highlights of our year is Field Day which provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate this mission together.

Let’s continue to encourage movement, teamwork, and mindful eating to support a future of strong, healthy adults. We’ve got this!