SELA Academics Elementary School JuniorK – 6th Grade · Hingham

The Elementary School

Two schools under one roof—a Lower School where foundations take hold, and an Upper School where independence takes flight.

The Two Schools

JuniorK – 2nd Grade

Lower School

Where strong foundations take hold.

Lower School students learning together in a SELA classroom
Lower School · Hingham

The Lower School, covering JuniorK through 2nd Grade, is a time of important growth for students. During these years, children begin building strong foundations in reading, math, and science through specialty subject teachers. They also learn how to interact with others, share, take turns, and develop empathy. Additionally, they start to understand and express their emotions in healthy ways. Through exploration, students learn how to solve problems, make decisions, and think critically about the world around them.

3rd – 6th Grade

Upper School

Where independence takes flight.

Upper School students at work in a SELA classroom
Upper School · Hingham

As students move on to Upper School, they enter an environment that brings new academic challenges and opportunities for personal growth. In this stage, students are encouraged to become more independent in their studies and personal lives, while also strengthening their social and emotional development. The experiences and lessons they encounter help them build important life skills, including problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking. Our dedicated teachers are there every step of the way, offering support and guidance to help students grow into compassionate, responsible, and well-rounded individuals. By nurturing a passion for lifelong learning, we prepare our students to make positive contributions to their communities and to the world around them.

Academic Programs

The curriculum, indexed

Eight subjects, each taught in the language best suited to it. Open any line to read how it works.

Our students become skilled and enthusiastic readers and writers through a variety of engaging activities, such as group text analysis, book clubs, and independent projects. These experiences deepen their understanding and appreciation of literature while helping them develop advanced writing, grammar, and expression skills. With the support of our English specialist teachers, students are encouraged to build confidence and develop the skills needed to create and share their own meaningful stories and ideas.

In math classes, students will build skills and understanding in areas consisting of number sense, data and statistics, algebraic reasoning, and geometry. We use project-based learning and encourage inquiry, allowing students to discuss and explain math concepts to classmates and teachers. Along with solving problems on their own, students also work together in groups to strengthen teamwork and communication skills.

For coding, introducing programming languages like Scratch allows students to learn logic and problem-solving in a fun, age-appropriate way. By combining math with coding, we help students see how these subjects are connected—like through algorithms and data representation. This integrated approach not only deepens their understanding but also keeps them interested and motivated to learn!

Elementary students working through a math problem together at SELA
Math & Coding · Hingham

Our students are tackling more challenging materials, reading and writing in cursive, and learning new grammar concepts. They begin exploring books like “Don Quixote,” understanding and using not only simple language but also historical language. Their proficiency in Mandarin allows them to have conversations and start writing short paragraphs. At the upper school level, students are comfortable having long discussions, working on book projects, expressing themselves verbally, and confidently presenting in Spanish across all other subjects.

A SELA student reading aloud during a language immersion lesson
Language Immersion · Hingham

At our school, we encourage students to approach problems with a scientific mindset by expanding and applying their knowledge in subjects like earth science, biology, and chemistry. Rather than just learning theories, they conduct hands-on experiments, analyze real-life case studies, and practice the scientific method—forming questions, designing experiments, collecting data, and drawing conclusions. Along the way, they build skills in data analysis, modeling, and research, while also strengthening scientific literacy so they can clearly communicate their ideas. This well-rounded approach equips students to think critically, solve problems, and engage with the world as informed individuals.

SELA students conducting a hands-on science experiment
Science · Hingham

Our classrooms use interactive boards, multimedia tools, and virtual platforms like Google Classroom to make lessons engaging and collaborative. In the computer lab, students practice typing, coding with Scratch, and creating digital projects, while 3D printers let them bring ideas to life through hands-on design. With interactive systems and simulations, teachers make lessons more realistic and dynamic, helping students build creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration skills.

A SELA student using technology in the classroom
Technology · Hingham

Students explore a wide range of artistic materials and techniques, from drawing and painting to ceramics, sculpture, digital art, and design. Each project encourages experimentation, helping them develop personal style while gaining confidence in their abilities. Along the way, they learn how art connects to culture, history, and other subjects, building creativity, problem-solving skills, and adaptability that prepare them to think innovatively in any setting.

A SELA student painting during an art lesson
Art · Hingham

Our K–5 history curriculum builds a strong foundation in U.S. and world history by exploring key events, figures, and themes through interactive lessons and thematic units. Students study topics like early America, the Revolution, and major global events while connecting literature to historical narratives for deeper understanding. Along the way, they develop critical thinking, collaboration, and cultural awareness, gaining empathy and respect for diverse perspectives. Regular assessments and opportunities for reflection help evaluate understanding and growth, while the incorporation of educational technology enriches the learning experience. Ultimately, our goal is to cultivate informed, curious, and compassionate learners who are prepared to engage with the complexities of the world around them.

SELA students engaged in a history lesson and class discussion
USA & World History · Hingham

Children from preschool through 5th grade build coordination, fitness, and confidence through tennis, soccer, and skill-based sports activities. In tennis, they learn grips, strokes, and footwork, while soccer focuses on dribbling, passing, shooting, and teamwork. Lessons are age-appropriate, blending drills with fun games to keep kids motivated and engaged. Beyond physical skills, sports help develop sportsmanship, resilience, and social skills like communication and collaboration. Early exposure also strengthens motor skills, focus, and healthy habits, laying the foundation for a lifelong love of being active.

SELA students playing soccer on the field
Tennis & Soccer · Hingham

From first words to final projects, the elementary years are where curiosity becomes capability.

From JuniorK through 6th Grade, SELA students grow into confident, compassionate learners—ready for whatever comes next.

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