Welcome to Nicole’s 4th and 5th Grade Newts! As the oldest students at Keystone, the Newts step into leadership roles, guiding younger students, building confidence, and learning the value of mentorship and community. In our classroom, each child is recognized as an individual learner with unique strengths, interests, and goals. Learning is tailored to meet students where they are, while also encouraging them to grow, stretch, and shine. Each day blends real-world experiences with academics, social–emotional growth, and time in nature, creating a classroom where learning feels purposeful and connected.
Math comes to life through projects like building and running a functional farm stand or cooking together in the classroom. These activities allow students to practice measurement, fractions, money, and problem-solving while reinforcing foundational skills in algebra and geometry.
English and Reading are explored through daily writing, typing practice, songs that reinforce language skills, and project-based essays. Students also engage in novel studies, research projects, and “Book Buddies,” where they partner with younger grades to read aloud—strengthening both fluency and connection across the school.
Social Studies is driven by curiosity and student choice, often becoming a year-long project that weaves in other subjects. Past studies have included Greek Mythology, U.S. geography and history, and biology.
Science takes full advantage of Keystone’s natural setting and shared projects across the school. Students explore biology, earth science, and environmental systems through hands-on discovery and collaboration.
The Newts classroom is a space where older elementary learners are challenged academically, nurtured socially, and encouraged to grow into thoughtful leaders who are ready for the adventures ahead.
