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The Lower School’s superior academics are enhanced by unique programs that promote crucial growth and development of our youngest students. Our academically and intellectually rigorous curriculum emphasizes the mastery of essential skills through collaborative inquiry and customized learning environments.
The core curriculum of language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies is enhanced with the seven Specials that provide innovative approaches to problem-solving through age-appropriate instruction.
ODA’s culture of innovation is balanced with rich traditions designed to teach critical thinking, collaboration, communication and creativity.Our educational approach lays the foundation for lifelong learning from curious students who seek to understand the world around them.
On Tuesday, fourth grader Bethany Cox arrived at the Siesta Key Campus ready to push up her sleeves and act as the Head of Lower School for the day. The unique opportunity offered at Banyan Ball gives students the chance to step into each division head's shoes to experience what it is like to keep the school running smoothly. Click here for photos of her day.
Student-artists were in the spotlight for two days filled with musical performances, visual art displays, and choral concerts. Click for photos from Lower School Arts Day and Middle & Upper School Arts Day.
One of ODA's favorite traditions, Spirit Day, returned in full to the Uihlein Campus, with a day of friendly competition and camaraderie. Click here to view photos from the event.
The Class of 2035's heritage was celebrated with a multifaceted unit that included geography, language, culture, and music. Click here to view video from the event.
The "Four Cs": creativity, communication, collaboration and critical thinking provide the foundation for our early childhood program.
Communication
Our Lower School students learn the skills necessary to share their thoughts, questions, ideas and solutions. Whether for a digital project, oral presentation, book review, or active participation in group discussions, students are guided to refine their written and oral skills to communicate new understandings effectively.
Creativity
Our Lower School students are encouraged to see the world from new perspectives by combining imagination with intellectual curiosity. Through hands-on discovery, learners are challenged to engage with ideas to unearth possibilities. Teachers stretch students to think differently and to approach problems with open and inquisitive minds.
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Collaboration
Collaboration is a key element in the education methodology utilized by the faculty. Students learn from each other's perspectives in order to build an interdependent community. Students gain the skills necessary to work together to reach a common goal in an environment where group interactions are the norm.
Critical Thinking
Natural curiosity leads to a deeper understanding of complex concepts. At Out-of-Door, students are challenged with open-ended questions, experiments, design process and project-based learning to encourage convergent and divergent thinking skills, helping children view themselves as problem solvers.
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Specials
By studying Spanish, art, music, MITT (Meaningful, Innovative, and Transformative Transliteracy), STEM, marine science, and physical education, students begin to develop an expansive world view from their earliest educational experience.
The Out-of-Door Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, physical ability, religion, sex, age, gender, sexual orientation, or national origin.
The Out-of-Door Academy is an equal opportunity employer.