PS1 Program Overview

Language Arts

PS1 Program Overview

PS1 students become confident, purposeful communicators through a program grounded in the science of reading and writing. Early literacy instruction builds foundational skills through structured, multi-sensory methods. From Kindergarten to Sixth-Grade, they engage with increasingly complex texts and writing forms, learning to craft arguments, tell stories, and share their voice. A structured, evidence-based approach fosters joyful, fluent readers who read for learning, connection, and pleasure.

Reading: Our literacy program includes multi-sensory, explicit instruction in phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension, with tools like Orton-Gillingham used to support early readers.

Writing: Students express their ideas with clarity and purpose while embracing each stage of the writing process.

Speaking and Listening: Communication is embedded across the curriculum, encouraging respectful dialogue and thoughtful idea-sharing, as well as public speaking opportunities.

Mathematics At PS1 Pluralistic School, we believe how children learn is just as important as what they learn. Our curriculum is designed with intention, depth, and flexibility, interweaving innovative instruction with a multidimensional learning experience from Kindergarten through 6th grade. We view elementary school not as seven one-year experiences, but as one continuous arc that honors students’ natural development and evolving interests.

Across all subjects, students are encouraged to explore, question, and collaborate. They learn by doing, engaging in hands-on projects, real-world problem solving, and meaningful connections that help them discover how different disciplines shape and inform each other.

The result is a vibrant community of learners who are motivated, resilient, and empowered to lead with curiosity and compassion.

Our math program empowers students to think deeply and flexibly. Through real-world problems, discussion, and conceptual modeling, students grow as confident mathematicians.

6th Grade: Illustrative Mathematics engages students in rich problem solving, promoting mathematical reasoning and fluency.

K–5: Contexts for Learning Mathematics encourages exploration through storytelling and open-ended investigations.

Students build strong mathematical identities and take joy in discovering the patterns and logic of the world around them.

Community and Environment At PS1, Social Studies, Science, Environmental Learning, and Social Justice are woven together, guided by students’ questions, imagination, and real-world relevance.

Science: Using the Next Generation Science Standards, students explore life, earth, the natural environment, and physical sciences through hands-on observation, experimentation, and engineering, documenting their discoveries in personal science journals.

Social Studies and Imaginative Inquiry: Social Studies begins with family and identity and expands to local, national, and global communities.

Through Imaginative Inquiry—an approach that uses storytelling, role play, and dramatic conventions— students step into multiple perspectives, explore history and social issues, and practice taking action in imaginative yet meaningful contexts.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging: Guided by the Learning for Justice Standards, students explore identity, justice, action, and empathy in age-appropriate ways, building the foundation for an inclusive and compassionate community.

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) At PS1, we believe education should do more than transfer knowledge—it should spark curiosity, build confidence, and empower students to contribute meaningfully to the world around them. Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is essential to this mission.

By helping children understand themselves, connect with others, and navigate challenges with empathy and integrity, we prepare them to be curious, critical thinkers who lead with compassion and purpose.

Our SEL program is guided by the CASEL 5 Framework, which develops lifelong skills in: Self-Awareness – recognizing emotions, strengths, and identity Self-Management – managing emotions and setting goals Social Awareness – showing empathy and understanding diverse perspectives Relationship Skills – building healthy friendships and resolving conflicts

These skills are taught explicitly through lessons, class meetings, and peer activities, and reinforced naturally through group projects, reflection, and everyday interactions. SEL also supports PS1’s vision that many voices build a better world, creating classrooms where every child is seen, heard, and valued.

By integrating SEL with academics, PS1 equips s tudents with the lifelong skills to lead, collaborate, and care—building not only stronger learners, but also individuals prepared to contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond.

Responsible Decision-Making – making thoughtful, ethical choices

Specialists and Enrichment Students attend specialist classes in small groups throughout the week, allowing for more individualized instruction and creative exploration.

Spanish Our K–6 World Language program began in 2024–25.

Using ACTFL standards, students learn Spanish through play, song, stories, and cultural experiences.

Spanish language and culture are woven into classroom activities, events, and literature across the school.

The Studio (STEAM) A hands-on makerspace where students explore design thinking and engineering using tools like 3D printers, laser cutters, sewing machines, and woodshop tools. Students learn through research, ideation, prototyping, and testing, developing comfort with creativity, iteration, and ambiguity.

Art Students express themselves in a dedicated art studio, working in media such as paint, ink, ceramics, mosaic, and mixed materials. Art is integrated across subjects and also taught as a discipline, emphasizing creativity, cultural study, and technique.

Physical Education P.E. focuses on individual development, teamwork, and physical confidence. Activities include basketball, yoga, dance, soccer, circus arts, and more.

Students strengthen coordination, cooperation, and sportsmanship while having fun and staying active.

Music Music is woven into classroom themes and taught as a stand-alone subject. Students learn rhythm, pitch, theory, and appreciation through active participation and performance. Using Orff, percussion, and wind instruments, students explore music across cultures and time periods. Optional instrumental instruction is available through our afterschool Clubhouse program as well before school, through our partnership with Sounds Like LA.

Library The library is the heart of the school and is open to students, teachers, and families throughout the day.

It supports both curricular learning and personal interests, featuring a diverse collection of books that reflect our pluralistic values and foster a love of reading.

Learning Expeditions The city of Los Angeles serves as an extended classroom. Field trips deepen classroom learning and connect students to their community through visits to cultural landmarks, museums, parks, and more.

Technology Technology is integrated into learning as a creative tool. Students build digital literacy through keyboarding, research, presentations, and multimedia projects. In The Studio, they use tech for design and engineering, developing fluency in problem solving and innovation.

Learning Beyond the Classroom Service Learning Students participate in age-appropriate service projects that promote empathy, responsibility, and civic engagement. Partnerships with local organizations provide meaningful, hands-on opportunities to contribute to the greater good.

A PS1 education nurtures whole children who are intellectually curious, emotionally grounded, and socially engaged. Our graduates leave confident, compassionate, and ready for the road ahead—not just as students, but as leaders in their communities and beyond.