Specialists

All students receive instruction from certified elementary specialists in the areas of art, music, physical education, and library.

Our students receive weekly classroom instruction from an elementary art specialist. In grades kindergarten through second, students enjoy learning about color and the basic elements of design while comparing the works of famous artists. In grades three through five, students are encouraged to further develop their creativity in a variety of media, including clay and computer technology. For all students, participation in local, state, and national contests is encouraged. The PTA provides volunteers for the "Picture Person" program. Throughout the school, students' artwork is displayed. Oak Elementary students enjoy using their imagination!

Students at Oak Elementary receive weekly music instruction from an elementary music specialist. Classroom units of study are integrated with the music curriculum, Share the Music by Macmillan/McGraw Hill. In grades kindergarten through second grade, students are encouraged to express themselves through singing while taking care of their voices. All classes learn multicultural songs and sing in different languages. For all grades, the varied musical instruments, textbooks, and a hands-on style of teaching contribute to helping each student develop a love of music which lasts a lifetime.

All students receive weekly physical education taught by elementary physical education specialists. The curriculum provides maximum participation while teaching both skills and good sportsmanship. A large gymnasium and adequate equipment provide an environment which promotes wellness, physical fitness and fun. Our students take great pride in their physical fitness. The school year concludes with a Field Day for each grade level. Parents, teachers and community friends go the "extra mile" to make this day a popular tradition.

Independent reading is a goal of the Oak Elementary Library. A certified librarian and a teacher assistant supervise the selection and checkout of over 10,000 books. Every student has the opportunity to visit the library to check out and return books, take Accelerated Reader tests, and to consult the librarian about special projects. A huge inventory of A-V equipment is widely used throughout the school. The PTA sponsors several programs which encourage reading. Reading incentive programs are conducted throughout the year. The Accelerated Reader program is popular with all students. After reading a book from the Accelerated Reader list, the student takes a test on the computer. Points are earned based on accuracy and the reading level of the book. A schoolwide incentive program recognizes the efforts of all participants. Students at Oak Elementary receive a strong foundation for becoming life-long recreational readers.

The guidance program has three components. The first one is classroom guidance. The curriculum focuses on understanding oneself and others, career awareness, academic skills, and transitions from one school or grade to another. Individual and small group counseling are available for students with special needs. The second component is a Student Assistance Program, referred to as SAP. The counselor serves as the SAP Coordinator. The SAP committee provides assistance to teachers of students with special needs. The third component is Parent Education. Parenting workshops are offered at various times of the year to provide support and information for parenting today's child.