Different Approaches. Shared Commitments.

Learning at Cottonwood looks different across classrooms because children have different needs at different stages of development.

Our teachers draw on direct instruction, play, creative expression, hands-on exploration, investigation, and community experiences to support academic and personal growth. Rather than requiring every classroom to follow the same teaching method, we use approaches appropriate to the children, the subject, and the learning goals.

Preschool & PreK

Learning Through Play and Exploration

Play is central to our earliest childhood classroom. Children spend meaningful time engaged in imaginative play, making art, building, movement, sensory exploration, and other hands-on experiences.

Teachers thoughtfully prepare the environment, observe children’s interests, introduce new materials and ideas, and extend learning through conversation and shared experiences.

Early literacy, mathematics, language and vocabulary, social development, and independence are woven into classroom life. Building a structure, creating a pretend meal, or exploring natural materials can become opportunities to investigate, solve problems, communicate, and collaborate.

Kindergarten & 1st Grade

Building Foundations Through Play and Discovery

In our K/1 classroom, children build reading, writing, and mathematics skills through instruction that meets them where they are, with support and opportunities for growth at their own pace.

Alongside foundational academics, children engage in open-ended art, hands-on projects, movement, and exploration of the natural world. Self-initiated research and investigation encourage them to ask questions, follow their curiosity, and make discoveries.

This combination of intentional teaching and independent exploration helps children strengthen their skills while becoming increasingly confident and capable learners.

Upper Elementary Grades

Deepening Understanding and Independence

As students grow, academic learning becomes increasingly complex, with opportunities for deeper investigation, discussion, research, and collaborative work.

Teachers combine individual and small-group instruction in reading, writing, and mathematics with projects, problem-solving, and experiences that encourage students to apply what they’ve learned.

Students are challenged to think critically, consider different perspectives, take responsibility for their work, and contribute meaningfully to their learning community.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Experiences and Community

Learning at Cottonwood extends beyond the classroom through onsite art and physical education classes, daily whole-school music, outdoor exploration, and experiences within our surrounding community.

Library visits, creek exploration, neighborhood walks, and visits to local businesses give children opportunities to engage with the people, places, and natural environments around them.

These experiences enrich classroom learning while helping children develop a deeper connection to their community and the world beyond school.