Elementary

At the elementary level, English Language Arts (ELA) includes reading, writing, speaking and listening. Instruction is grounded in the science of reading and systematically and explicitly addresses phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, comprehension, and writing.

Our K–2 classrooms use the University of Florida Literacy Institute’s (UFLI) foundational skills curriculum, while Grades 3–5 implement 95 Phonics to support continued, explicit phonics instruction.

In all classrooms, Arts & Letters serves as the core resource for language comprehension. Students respond to text through discussion and writing, and compose narrative, opinion and informational pieces. Instruction is intentionally scaffolded to empower students to become independent readers, writers and critical thinkers.

Click to learn more about Shakopee's Comprehensive Literacy Framework. 

Shakopee builds the foundation for future math success through the nationally recognized Illustrative Math curriculum. With a focus on conceptual understanding and number sense, students are brought into the world of math through hands-on activities and discussion based explorations that provide a much needed connection between math and our students’ lives.

These student centered classrooms prepare students for success in higher level math by supporting math fluency and building the fundamentals of math while also making them problem solvers and critical thinkers.

Elementary science is all about getting kids to DO science. It’s never too early to ask questions, look at evidence, construct explanations or engage in arguments grounded in data.

These scientific practices are at the core of our two science curriculums, Amplify and Project Lead the Way (PLTW). Students will love getting their hands dirty as they learn about the world around them and build the habits that all good scientists have.

The elementary social studies curriculum aims to provide students with a foundation in key social studies concepts while fostering curiosity about the world around them. 

Students engage in hands-on activities, discussions and readings that promote critical thinking and collaboration skills to prepare them to become responsible and informed citizens.

The Physical Education & Health program for Grades K-5 promotes the physical, social and emotional development of young students. Through a variety of age-appropriate activities and games, the PE program aims to instill a lifelong appreciation for physical fitness and overall well-being.

The Elementary Art program is focused on building a variety of developmentally appropriate skills that foster a love of artistic expression through choice-based art education. Students learn to create, present, respond and connect with a variety of art medium including

Elementary Art Educators foster: Curiosity through Risk taking and Exploration in Authentic learning, while teaching Technique and creative Expression (CREATE).

The Music Program for Grades K-5 introduces young students to the world of music. The program is tailored specifically to meet the developmental needs of children in kindergarten through fifth grade, providing them with a solid foundation in musical concepts, skills and appreciation.

K-5 STEM work is an integrated approach to learning that encourages collaboration, innovation and real-world problem solving. Through hands-on experiences, our students build resilience, creativity and a passion for discovery. STEM education empowers students to pursue diverse interests with the skills and confidence to solve complex challenges.

Universal literacy screeners are quick checks that help teachers understand how well students are developing reading skills; it also meets the requirements outlined in the Minnesota READ Act. 

A score at or above the 40th percentile means that a child is meeting expectations and is on track with key literacy skills. A score below the 40th percentile signals that a child may need some extra support to strengthen specific reading skills. This does not mean something is wrong—it simply helps teachers identify which students might benefit from targeted instruction to ensure they continue to grow as confident readers. 

Shakopee Public Schools uses the following FastBridge measures for our universal screening in reading in Grades K-5. 

 All students receive strong core reading instruction. Additionally, during our 30 minutes of “What I Need” (WIN) time, your child will receive instruction specific to his/her instructional needs. These services may include: 

• Targeted Intervention Support 
• Small Group Instruction 
• English Language Development Services