The Core Program: Grades 3-8 Program

The Grades 3-8 program is the core of Summer on the Hill. A six-year commitment for accepted public school students and families, the Grades 3-8 Program seeks to build a strong foundation for student learning and confidence. The year-round program is comprised of:

4th grade language arts class

•    a five-week summer program for all Grade 3-8 students,
•    an academic-year Saturday program for all Grade 3-8 students,
• evening workshops for parents, and
•    individual and group school placement guidance.

The Grades 3-8 program emphasizes accelerated instruction in language arts and writing, math, and science, in a curriculum based on Horace Mann’s guidelines. The program also includes classes in the visual and performing arts, and seasonal sports. Experienced teachers from independent, parochial, and public schools teach classes of 15-18 students. Teachers write progress reports that are reviewed by SOH’s Dean of Students before they are sent home. The Dean is available to meet with parents who have concerns about their child’s progress.

At the middle school level, instruction emphasizes analysis — of literary works, mathematical problems, and scientific concepts. The curriculum looks forward to secondary education by introducing students to abstract ways of thinking; however, when possible, instruction includes hands-on opportunities to make learning real and engaging for adolescents.

Middle school science lab

By the end of the 8th grade, SOH students will have:

read and discussed complete works of literature, conducted science experiments and written lab reports,
learned problem-solving strategies and the basics of algebra,
participated in team and individual sports, and
participated in a musical theatre performance and learned the value of teamwork.

4th grade language arts costume party

SOH acknowledges the NYS Department of Health Child and Adult Food Program and the NYC DOE Summer SchoolFood Program in helping SOH to provide free meals to our students.