As a member of the Paradise Valley Unified School District, Sonoran Sky Elementary offers a curriculum that is in alignment with all district-adopted programs and the Arizona Academic Standards. While the basic curriculum forms the foundation for the school experience, it is enhanced through programs, activities and experiences that bring it to life.

We believe that teaching the basics (reading, writing, language, spelling, math, science, social studies and health) is critical to the strong academic development of our students. In addition, we strive to help our students to love the process of learning. Character and citizenship development is central to all student programs and expectations. Special Area programs in art, media, computer, music and physical education also enrich the classroom curriculum and assist students in discovering their own strengths and talents.

Integrated Curriculum

Reading, Language and Writing are taught using basals and literature. The District Project Reading Program is utilized in the primary grades. Students are encouraged to and assisted in reading independently at individually appropriate reading levels, through the Literacy Challenge Program in the primary grades and the Reading Renaissance Program in the intermediate grades. A heavy emphasis is placed on the writing process and student publication, using the Six-Traits and cross-curricular writing.

In Math, heavy emphasis is placed on the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) Standards. The philosophies and strategies of the Rutger's Discrete Mathematics Institute are utilized. A manipulative, problem-solving approach to math, combining computational skills with application, is the foundation to the program.

Social Studies and Science are the springboard for much of the thematic development of integrated curriculum. In Social Studies, integrated programs on Scottsdale and Phoenix , Arizona , the United States , and the World are utilized as a foundation on which to build. The scientific method is taught throughout the grade levels using investigations and relevant learning experiences, such as the use of our native habitat pond. A variety of field trips enhance student learning in social studies and science.

  Technology is used as a tool throughout the curriculum to extend and support student learning. Students are taught computer skills through the media center, and the media/technology specialist as well as classroom teachers applying the skills through a number of appropriate projects and applications.

The Arts are taught through specialists and Artist-in-Residencies. They are also integrated in the grade level curriculum and other grade level arts experiences.

 

Health, Safety & Physical Fitness is taught not only through the physical education program, but through grade level health and prevention programs in the classrooms and with the assistance of the School Nurse.