Lower School
Grades 1-4
Our curriculum is standards based and instruction is data driven. Students learn in whole groups, small groups, cooperative groups and independently. There is an emphasis on using what is learned in the curriculum and to applying it to authentic situations.
Language Arts
Fundations: Explicit phonics instruction ensures students have the foundation to decode and encode words. The study of spelling rules and trick words enhances reading and writing. Handwriting Skills begin in Kindergarten and continue through grade 2, with script taught in grades 3 and 4.
Reading: Nurturing the love of reading begins with a scaffolded approach. Students are explicitly taught comprehension skills through read alouds, then apply them in guided reading (grades 1–2) and through Individualized Daily Reading and teacher conferencing (grades 3–4). Vocabulary instruction is embedded in mentor texts.
Writing: Our writing program develops skills in structure, craft, and conventions. It encourages engagement and voice as students set and achieve goals. Grammar concepts and conventions are embedded for authentic, purpose-driven application.
Math
The LS Math Curriculum uses TANG Math, emphasizing number sense through concrete, pictorial, and abstract stages. This research-based program is about a half-year ahead of most others and is adaptable to meet all learners’ needs.
Science
Science is taught in a relatable, hands-on way. Our 15.5-acre wooded campus offers exploration through gardening and outdoor learning. Indoors, students conduct experiments and engage in STEM challenges. Mystery Science teaches students to think like scientists and communicate through writing, discussion, and exploration.
Specials
PE, Art, Technion, Library: AJA believes in a well-rounded education. Students learn through art, movement, and technology, and visit the library to hear stories and select books. These specialty classes enrich and extend classroom learning.
Social Emotional Learning
The social-emotional well-being of our students is foundational. Responsive Classroom promotes social skills, academic engagement, positive climate, and independence. Lessons from the Social Emotional Learning program teach mindfulness and self-regulation. Our School Counselor works closely with teachers to address issues in real time.
Hebrew & Judaics
All classes 1st-4th grade are conducted Ivrit b’ Ivrit. The goal in our Judaic Studies is to lead each child along the path of studying Parsha, developing a love of learning and connection to the lives of our ancestors. We work to further strengthen our students’ Jewish identities, love of learning, and appreciation for Torah and Israel. We will engage in textual learning, art, technology, song and numerous other modalities to achieve this goal. All of our studies are integrated. The root words we study in Chumash are used again in Ivrit. The words and concepts we study in Ivrit are integrated into our study of the Parsha and the Chagim. The progression of learning all aspects of Judaic Studies carries through the Lower School, preparing our students for Middle School Judaics and Hebrew.
At Atlanta Jewish Academy, the MENSCH Initiative is our proactive approach to character education, designed to help students build strong life skills and contribute to a caring school community. Rather than emphasizing punishment, the program focuses on growth, reflection, and support. Students learn to understand and practice six core traits:
Mindful – Using time and attention with purpose
Empathetic – Understanding others’ feelings and perspectives
Nurturing – Caring for oneself and others
Self-Controlled – Managing emotions and actions responsibly
Collaborative – Working and learning effectively with others
Honorable – Acting with integrity and earning respect Through this framework, AJA guides students to make thoughtful choices, strengthen relationships, and grow into true mensches - people of character and kindness.