Elementary School

At New York Academy, our Elementary School program offers a vibrant and stimulating learning environment where students from Grades 1 to 5 develop essential academic skills and grow as compassionate, curious global citizens. Grounded in AERO standards and WASC accreditation, our curriculum integrates core subjects such as Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Visual and Performing Arts, Music, Modern Languages, and Physical and Health Education.

Our interdisciplinary approach organizes learning into inquiry-driven units that encourage students to explore concepts deeply and make meaningful connections across subject areas. Through project-based learning, collaborative activities, and critical thinking challenges, children develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and a lifelong love of learning.

Social and emotional development is a priority at NYA. Our teachers create a supportive classroom culture where students learn to communicate effectively, work cooperatively, and demonstrate empathy and respect for diverse perspectives. Personalized instruction ensures that each child’s unique talents, interests, and learning styles are nurtured within a positive, inclusive community.

With a balanced emphasis on academics, arts, physical well-being, and character formation, the New York Academy Elementary School prepares students for confident success in middle school and beyond, ready to thrive in an interconnected world. The AERO (American Education Reaches Out) standards are designed to align American curriculum and instruction abroad with U.S. education expectations, making it easier for students to transition internationally while maintaining high academic quality. AERO standards follow the U.S. Common Core and other national standards frameworks and are structured by grade level and subject strands.

Key Features of AERO Standards

• Standards-Based: AERO uses clear, rigorous grade-level standards to guide curriculum and instruction.
• Internationally Aligned: Facilitates seamless transitions for students moving between international schools.
• Skill and Knowledge Focus: Emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and conceptual understanding.

Core Subjects Covered by AERO

1. English Language Arts (ELA)

• Reading: Literature and informational texts with comprehension and analysis
• Writing: Narrative, informative, persuasive writing
• Speaking & Listening: Collaborative discussions, presentations
• Language: Grammar, vocabulary, conventions

2. Mathematics

• Number and Operations
• Algebraic Thinking
• Geometry
• Measurement and Data
• Mathematical Practices (e.g., reasoning, problem solving)

3. Science

• Physical Science (matter, energy, forces)
• Life Science (organisms, ecosystems)
• Earth and Space Science (weather, earth systems)
• Scientific Inquiry and Engineering Practices

4. Social Studies

• History (American, World)
• Geography
• Civics and Government
• Economics

5. Additional Areas Often Included

• Visual and Performing Arts
• Physical and Health Education
• Modern/Foreign Languages

Strands Within Subjects

Subjects are broken into strands or domains for focused learning goals. For example:

• In ELA, strands include Reading Literature, Reading Informational Text, Writing, Language, and Speaking & Listening.
• In Math, strands follow domains like Number and Operations in Base Ten, Measurement and Data, or Geometry.

Implementation

Schools adopt AERO standards to map curriculum, pacing guides, and assessments ensuring consistency and comprehensive coverage of key learning objectives. Teachers use standards-based learning objectives to design lessons and projects that balance foundational knowledge with real-world application and inquiry.