In Pre-K4 (PK4), students build on their phonemic awareness using Heggerty curriculum while being introduced to Wilson Fundations, a structured, research-based program grounded in the Science of Reading. Instruction focuses on decoding, encoding and handwriting, supporting the development of confident, independent readers. Each PK4 class has weekly literacy small groups with both learning resource specialists and their teachers.

Our newly renovated Media Center is a central learning hub, encouraging a love of literature, teaching basic research and literacy skills and promoting creative thinking. In this space, students will listen to stories read aloud by authors, as well as parent volunteers and they are encouraged to independently curl up with a book of their choosing. From the very start, all Primary School students are invited to check out books from our extensive selection using their own library card. 

Pre-K4 (PK4) students deepen their number sense through hands-on, center-based learning using manipulatives, complemented by calendar-based math instruction, counting collections and structured number talks to build foundational numeracy skills. Instruction includes one-to-one correspondence and number writing (0-10), with counting extended to 20. Students explore early geometry using tools such as geoboards while strengthening fine motor and problem-solving skills through engaging, game-based learning.

In Pre-K4 (PK4), the stage grows wider and the possibilities even brighter. Our students transition from simple play into a world of intentional artistry, where a steady beat evolves into a symphony of simple rhythms. Watch as their physical vocabulary flourishes--from the disciplined poise of ballet and the rhythmic pulse of Latin dance to the high-energy spirit of hip-hop. As they step into the shoes of new characters, their imaginative storytelling blossoms into true dramatic expression. Here, we aren't just teaching steps and songs; we are building a vibrant, lasting foundation for the stars of tomorrow. 

The Pre-K4 (PK4) Brainstormers program advances the sensory foundations of PK3 into a more intentional framework for STEM and design thinking. This collaborative lab experience serves as a developmental bridge, transitioning students from spontaneous play to structured inquiry. Students engage in daily indoor and outdoor labs to analyze physical properties such as measurement, scale and material composition while beginning to formulate predictions, test hypotheses and reflect on their findings. The curriculum expands upon horticultural science through continued engagement with classroom tower gardens and outdoor garden spaces, deepening observational skills. By prioritizing early problem-solving and perserverance, the program fosters the communication, cooperation and confidence necessary for a successful transition into K-Prep and Kindergarten.

Spanish language instruction is offered once a week to Pre-K4 (PK4) classes.

The acquisition-driven classes foster understanding, curiosity and openness to other cultures and languages. The goal is to create classes that are comprehensible, engaging and compelling so that the student is excited to practice the language with confidence. The Primary School World Language classes mirror the child-centered approach in which all children learn their first language, with songs, stories, games and movement. Students learn Spanish in a natural, authentic and enduring manner to lay a strong foundaiton for future language development.

As the Pre-K4 (PK4) level, instruction transitions toward refined motor control and increased coordination. Students master complex locomotor patterns such as galloping and leaping, while enhancing their ability to regulate speed and direction. The curriculum introduces sophisticated spatial navigation, requiring students to maintain postural stability across diverse movement planes. 

As students grow, their exploration deepens through more structured, hands-on activities. They experiment with art materials, build early problem-solving skills and engage in collaborative play. Through our study of different countries throughout the year, children are introduced to new places, foods and cultural traditions.  Food experiences help them connect with each country in a meaningful, hands-on way. Children continue building their Explorer Passport, learning about and adding the flag of each country they study, strengthening their sense of global awareness and curiosity. 

K-Prep students continue with Heggerty, Wilson Fundations and Beyond the Code, following a structured Orton-Gillingham-based approach aligned with the Science of Reading. Instruction strengthens phonics, fluency and comprehension while supporting confident reading and writing development. Students receive targeted, individualized small-group instruction outside the classroom as needed, along with additional, differentiated learning opportunities during in-class small group rotations to reinforce and extend their skills.

Our newly renovated Media Center is a central learning hub, encouraging a love of literature, teaching basic research and literacy skills and promoting creative thinking. In this space, students will listen to stories read aloud by authors, as well as parent volunteers and they are encouraged to independently curl up with a book of their choosing. From the very start, all Primary School students are invited to check out books from our extensive selection using their own library card. 

Our K-Prep math program is built on Singapore Math (Dimensions Math), emphasizing deep conceptual understanding. Students develop skills through a three-step progression: concerete, pictorial and abstract learning. Key concepts include number sense, place value, number bonds and problem-solving strategies. Instruction is interactive and incorporates manipulatives, games and real-world applications to build confidence and critical thinking.

In K-Prep and Kindergarten, our students step into the spotlight with newfound purpose. This is where curiosity meets craft. Our young performers begin their journey into musical literacy, transforming rhythms from sounds into symbols they can read and perform. In the dance studio, coordination becomes choreography as they master intricate patterns in ballet, Latin and hip-hop. On the stage, imagination takes a professional turn; students learn the 'language of theatre' from stage directions to character development. As they collaborate on simple performances, they aren't just building skills--they are building the poise and presence of a true HIES student.

The Social Studies curriculum for K-Prep and Kindergarten focuses on developing global citizens with an awareness of their role in community.  The curriculum is designed to build a sense of responsibility, appreciation for cultural diversity and to develop a sense of empathy.  They learn about historical events and current events, important figures and national and world geography in a way that is meaningful and relevant to their understanding of community.

Spanish language instruction is offered twice a week to K-Prep classes.

The acquisition-driven classes foster understanding, curiosity and openness to other cultures and languages. The goal is to create classes that are comprehensible, engaging and compelling so that the student is excited to practice the language with confidence. The Primary School World Language classes mirror the child-centered approach in which all children learn their first language, with songs, stories games and movement. Students learn Spanish in a natural, authentic and enduring manner to lay a strong foundation for future language development.

The Primary School provides a semester each of Spanish and French for Kindergarten classes, and students receive instruction twice a week.

The acquisition-driven classes foster understanding, curiosity and openness to other cultures and languages. The goal is to create classes that are comprehensible, engaging and compelling so that the student is excited to practice the language with confidence. The Primary School World Language classes mirror the child-centered approach in which all children learn their first language, with songs, stories games and movement. Students learn Spanish in a natural, authentic and enduring manner to lay a strong foundation for future language development.

K-Prep seves as a developmental bridge to primary physical education, prioritizing advanced body management and integrated movement sequences. Students engage in complex transitions, introductory gymastics and rhythmic activities. This level places a strong emphasis on social-motor dynamics, fostering the cooperative skills and sportsmanship necessary for structured team environments.

Our oldest explorers take on more complex and meaningful projects that encourage creativity, critical thinking and independence. Students explore art, science and early academic concepts through building, sorting, experimenting and discovering nature. Their global studies of different countries throughout the year are enriched through hands-on food experiences, allowing them to explore cultural traditions more deeply. As they expand their Explorer Passport, they independently add and learn about each country's flag, building a stronger understanding of geography and cultural identity while preparing for continued learning with confidence and curiosity.

• Acolytes
• Fourth Grade Buddies
• AR Testing
• Digital Citizenship
• Upperschool Collaboration
• Additional Service Learning Opportunities

Kindergarten students engage in a comprehensive literacy program that includes Explode the Code, Heggerty and Wilson Fundations. Instruction focuses on phonics, spelling patterns, blends, digraphs and sight words. Students develop comprehension skills by identifying story elements such as characters and setting, and by distinguishing between fiction and nonfiction. Emphasis is placed on connecting reading and writing to meaningful, real-world experiences with journal writing daily. Students also receive targeted, individualized small-group instruction outside the classroom as needed, along with additional, differentiated learning opportunities during in-class small group rotations to reinforce and extend their skills.

Our newly renovated Media Center is a central learning hub, encouraging a love of literature, teaching basic research and literacy skills and promoting creative thinking. In this space, students will listen to stories read aloud by authors, as well as parent volunteers and they are encouraged to independently curl up with a book of their choosing. From the very start, all Primary School students are invited to check out books from our extensive selection using their own library card. In Kindergarten, students are introduced to the Accelerated Reading Program designed to evaluate and deepen reading comprehension in a fun and engaging way.

Kindergarten continues with Singapore Math (Dimensions Math), fostering a deep understanding of mathematical concepts through a structured, sequential approach. Students build fluency in place value, number relationships and mental math strategies while applying their knowledge to problem-solving along with an introduction to time and money. Instruction emphasizes conceptual mastery, encouraging students to think critically, make connections and develop confidence as mathematical learners. Instruction is interactive and incorporates manipulatives, counting collections, games and real-world applications to build confidence and critical thinking.

In K-Prep and Kindergarten, our students step into the spotlight with newfound purpose. This is where curiosity meets craft. Our young performers begin their journey into musical literacy, transforming rhythms from sounds into symbols they can read and perform. In the dance studio, coordination becomes choreography as they master intricate patterns in ballet, Latin and hip-hop. On the stage, imagination takes a professional turn; students learn the 'language of theatre' from stage directions to character development. As they collaborate on simple performances, they aren't just building skills--they are building the poise and presence of a true HIES student.

The Social Studies curriculum for K-Prep and Kindergarten focuses on developing global citizens with an awareness of their role in community.  The curriculum is designed to build a sense of responsibility, appreciation for cultural diversity and to develop a sense of empathy.  They learn about historical events and current events, important figures and national and world geography in a way that is meaningful and relevant to their understanding of community.

As a foundational component of the Episcopal academic tradition of raising global awareness, Spanish and French language instruction is offered weekly. Students are taught basic vocabulary through songs and pictures, in addition to receiving an introduction to various Spanish and French speaking cultures. K-Prep and Kindergarten students begin both Spanish and French language instruction three times a week.

The primary goal is to spark a love of world languages and cultures and to encourage students to become world travelers and global citizens. The curriculum is vocabulary based, not grammar based, and students learn through music, movement, hands-on activities and games. Language acquisition and proper pronunciation are reinforced with reading, repetition and interaction with each other and with the teacher.

The Kindergarten program focuses on the mastery of mature movement patterns and the introduction of manipulative skills. Students develop proficiency in skipping, sliding and rhythmic coordination, alongside foundational throwing, catching and dribbling techniques. Furthermore, the curriculum introduces basic exercise physiology, helping students identify the physical signatures of active exertion. 

Our oldest explorers take on more complex and meaningful projects that encourage creativity, critical thinking and independence. Students explore art, science and early academic concepts through building, sorting, experimenting and discovering nature. Their global studies of different countries throughout the year are enriched through hands-on food experiences, allowing them to explore cultural traditions more deeply. As they expand their Explorer Passport, they independently add and learn about each country's flag, building a stronger understanding of geography and cultural identity while preparing for continued learning with confidence and curiosity.