Benchmark Reading for Literacy
Students are exposed to a variety of literacy experiences which enables them to become independent readers, writers and thinkers. Teachers use authentic literature to teach comprehension and reading strategies. Children are often asked to write about their interpretations of books and life.
Math is My Math
The purpose of mathematics instruction at Peters is to teach our students to become mathematical thinkers and problem solvers. Students are asked to investigate math problems based on real life situations. They often work in small groups, to come up with alternate methods for solving problems, and to describe their reasoning both verbally and in writing. Basic skills practice is addressed through games and activities.
Science
Students learn science through hands-on exploration and scientific investigation with our curriculums Discovery and Project Lead the Way. We focus largely on incorporating STEM, or Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Students enhance their technology skills as they access Project Lead the Way resources through iPads.
Social Studies
Students are actively engaged in their own learning by using a literature based approach. They discover themselves personally relating to the historical figures and events they read about. They gather information, examine cause and effect, analyze results of decisions, debate issues and use their imaginations to create innovative and alternative ways solve to problems.
Art, music and physical education are important contributors in developing the “whole child”. Students attend these classes on a three day rotation schedule.
Library
A full-time media specialist is available throughout the day to help students choose books regarding interest and independent reading level. The librarian also collaborates with teachers to enrich classroom curriculum through storytelling and read alouds as well as to teach library and resource skills.
Instructional Programs
Character Counts is a district wide program designed to encourage the development of moral character in students. The character traits are based on “Six Pillars of Character.” They are Respect, Responsibility, Caring, Trustworthiness, Fairness and Citizenship.
On Friday, May 24, 2013, Peters became the first Union school to become an Oklahoma Green School - after students developed plans to grow more trees and cut energy costs. Oklahoma Green Schools is an organization that promotes green practices in schools. The projects are made possible through learning kits called Green School Investigations provided by Project Learning Tree.
Technology is an integral part of each elementary classroom. Peters’ students have access to computer labs, mobile laptops and classroom computers. Students have internet privileges under the direct supervision of teachers. The media center is equipped with computers where children can communicate, research and complete projects. Teachers also utilize a variety of technology tools. Each classroom is equipped with a SMART Board enabling teachers to deliver interactive curriculum lessons. Teachers have iPads that are used to electronically record student assessment data.
Special Services provides a Learning Lab environment for special education students and for students needing speech and language or physical and occupational therapy. A school psychologist is available to administer assessments to identify students in need of individual education plans.
A full-time reading teacher is on staff to differentiate instruction for remedial readers and to serve as our school testing coordinator. We are fortunate to have a full-time nurse assigned to our building. She administers medications and screens students’ abilities in vision and hearing.
Counseling
Guidance Lessons are taught by a full-time counselor. Anti-bullying, stranger danger, steps to respect and character development are part of the basic curriculum.
Peters offers support for English Language Learners. Students, under the direction of a qualified ELL instructor, participate in small group instruction that focuses on specific skills instruction and content curriculum.
Gifted and Talented services are provided to identified students as well as integrated enrichment opportunities for all students.
Native American students are eligible to receive academic support and to participate in cultural enrichment opportunities.
Extended Day Program
The Extended Day Program (EDP) provides safe, alternative educational child care, enhancing the child’s extended day. Recognizing the busy lifestyles of today’s family, the district attempts to work in partnership with home and parents by providing before and after school supervision at the school site.
Before and After School Enrichment Programs
Community Service Projects