The First School, Santa Monica

At the core of our curriculum philosophy are the beliefs that human interaction and relationship are the center of our existence and that raising an emotionally healthy child is the most important task facing teachers and parents. A child learns through activity. Our curriculum consists of the experiences and activities, both planned and unplanned, which help to develop each child's mind and body. The emotional dimension of these experiences, as expressed by teachers and students through speech, body language and feelings, is an integral part of our learning process. Our core philosophy also embraces the belief that we are all alike and different. Our curriculum includes activities which recognize cultural diversity. Many learning activities focus on the similarities and differences among people in positive and realistic ways. Bonding with our ethnically-diverse teaching staff helps children value and respect the differences among themselves and others.