Science
	SCIENCE in the theme-driven curriculum allows for the study of animals and metamorphosis, houses and dwellings, the human body, light and color, water, flight, the planet earth, simple machines, chemistry, electricity, and more. Our woodland campus and organic garden are natural laboratories for the study of biology, botany and ecology. The indoor Science Room is full of microscopes, collected bugs, and small animals such as baby snapping turtles or frogs that the children bring in to identify in the field manuals, or to foster for a few weeks. During the fourth and fifth graders’ alternate-year study of the Long Island Sound, early explorers and oceanography, they keep a thriving saltwater tank. In another part of the room, one might see evidence of experiments having to do with force and motion, hand stitching with dyed wool during Medieval studies, hand-made weather graphs, plus a SMART Board used to enrich the classroom studies. As the children experiment, record, and theorize, they use the scientific method of inquiry. Model-making and observational drawings reinforce their three-dimensional thinking. Kindergarteners and first graders have science twice a week; older students have classes in the Science Room and outdoors three times weekly.

	The Arts
	The ARTS challenge students to take diverse perspectives and create their own confident voice. In twice-weekly classes in visual arts, elementary students draw, paint, and sculpt. In twice weekly music classes, students are introduced to a wide variety of instruments and sounds; they learn to read music and perform in groups, sometimes making their own instruments. Our students write, direct and act in classroom plays as well as create and perform in our annual all-school production. As themes bring to art and music a wealth of work to consider from cultures and people across time and place, the teachers help students see the context and function of historic work such as Medieval tapestries or working songs while also helping students create their own original pieces. Performances take place in theater space with professional sound and lighting equipment, plus graduated seating to fit 350 in a comfortable but sophisticated and remarkable space.

	Spanish
	The SPANISH program at Long Ridge is designed to create an environment in which each child feels confident and comfortable expressing himself or herself in Spanish. Learning a second language prepares students to participate in a multi-cultural world and facilitates and improves later language acquisition. In twice-weekly sessions, our K-5 students learn Spanish through games such as numbered bingo, visual aids, conversation, literature, and music.

	Technology
	TECHNOLOGY supports and extends the learning process. Students use computers for writing, skill practice, problem solving, and research, and become discerning consumers of information. Older students develop facility with Excel and PowerPoint and word processing programs. Because computers are an integral part of each classroom, our students easily develop competence with new technology.

	Physical Education
	PHYSICAL EDUCATION includes sports, games, and movement with an emphasis on cooperative play and physical fitness. Young children become aware of the strength, flexibility and endurance they possess; older students develop these attributes. All students learn the etiquette and value of good sportsmanship, fair play, and conflict resolution. Daily outdoor activities take place on our playing fields, baseball diamonds, courts, and play structures. In the winter, students go sledding or skating. Our new Arts and Athletics Center enriches the physical education program with an indoor gymnasium that supports activities such as basketball, gymnastics, and street hockey. Elementary school children have physical education three times per week.