Our lower school math program focuses on number sense, arithmetic operations, and foundational concepts in geometry, measurement, and data. Students build fluency through manipulatives, games, and problem-solving activities that encourage critical thinking. As students progress, they begin to explore multi-step problems, preparing them for the abstract reasoning required in middle school math.
 

Our English curriculum builds strong foundations in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Through phonics, shared reading, and rich literature experiences, students develop decoding and comprehension skills. Writing instruction begins with sentence formation and expands to paragraphs, narratives, and simple research projects. Grammar, vocabulary, and spelling are taught in context to promote meaningful language use. Students learn to express ideas clearly and confidently, laying the groundwork for effective communication and critical thinking in the middle grades.

Students are encouraged to ask questions, make observations, and engage in hands-on investigations of the world around them. The curriculum introduces basic concepts in life science, physical science, earth science, and environmental studies. Emphasis is placed on curiosity and inquiry, laying the groundwork for more structured experimentation and scientific reasoning in later grades.
 

History in the lower grades begins with personal and local history, expanding to national symbols, important figures, and global traditions. Through stories, timelines, and project-based learning, students begin to understand chronology, cause and effect, and cultural heritage. These foundational skills support deeper historical analysis and critical thinking in middle and high school.

Students are introduced to the richness of Jewish life through stories, songs, interactive lessons, and hands-on learning. The curriculum focuses on Jewish holidays, weekly Torah portions, values (middot), and mitzvot, fostering a strong moral foundation and love of tradition. As students progress, they begin to engage with basic Hebrew vocabulary and explore primary sources in translation. These early experiences form the foundation for more advanced textual analysis and deeper religious identity in middle school.
 

Hebrew instruction emphasizes conversational fluency, decoding skills, and reading comprehension. Using age-appropriate stories, songs, and games, students develop vocabulary and grammar in a natural, immersive way. As they grow, students move from decoding to fluent reading and writing, preparing them to access sacred texts and engage in more structured language study in middle school.
 

At NEJA, our technology program builds digital fluency through a balance of practical skills, creativity, and responsible use of digital tools. Beginning in 2nd grade, students learn foundational Chromebook skills such as typing, navigation, and safe online searching, while becoming comfortable with Google Suite apps. As they progress through the grades, they expand their use of Docs, Slides, and Sheets—moving from basic formatting and layouts to more advanced features like tables of contents, collaborative presentations, non-linear slideshows, and data visualization. Alongside productivity skills, students explore creative applications through projects such as storyboards, interactive research slideshows, and digital design using Photopea, where they experiment with branding, logos, and brochures. Typing is reinforced throughout, while increasingly sophisticated projects weave together research, communication, design, and problem-solving. By the end of 6th grade, students are confident in applying technology to academic work, collaboration, and creative expression, laying a strong foundation for the advanced skills they will need for middle and high school. 

In visual arts, students experiment with a variety of media and techniques while learning the elements of art. Music classes introduce rhythm, melody, and basic notation through singing, instruments, and movement. These creative outlets nurture imagination and discipline, preparing students for more technical and interpretive work in middle school.

In P.E., students develop motor skills, coordination, and healthy habits through active play and structured movement. Games and activities promote teamwork, sportsmanship, and perseverance while helping students build strength, balance, and confidence. As students progress through the grades, they are introduced to a wider range of sports and fitness routines, laying the groundwork for lifelong physical well-being and a positive attitude toward health and wellness.