First Grade at Discovery School

At Discovery School, First Grade marks an exciting step into elementary learning—where curiosity deepens, confidence grows, and children begin to see themselves as capable, independent learners. Rooted in our hands-on, relationship-driven philosophy, the First Grade program blends academic rigor with creativity, exploration, and meaningful real-world connections.

Guided by Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) and best-practice educational standards, our curriculum is thoughtfully designed to meet each child where they are. Through a balance of whole-group instruction, small-group collaboration, and individualized learning, students engage daily in reading, writing, math, science, and social studies in ways that are both challenging and joyful.

Learning Through Exploration

Our signature Thematic Unit Studies bring learning to life. These in-depth explorations span several weeks and invite students to dive into topics such as Aquatic Life, the Seven Continents, Volcanoes, Texas Missions, the 50 United States, the Scientific Method, Stars and Constellations, Poetry, and Comparative Animal Anatomy.

Children learn through a variety of experiences—collaborative projects, hands-on centers, independent research, and guided instruction—allowing them to think critically, ask questions, and make meaningful connections.

Learning extends beyond the classroom through field experiences across San Antonio, including visits to local aquatic centers, historic missions, and museums. Signature events like the Science Fair, 50 Nifty United States Living Museum, Poetry Café, Art Show, and Evening Star Party give students the opportunity to celebrate and share their learning with family and community.

A Strong Foundation in Literacy

Literacy is woven throughout the day and nurtured through rich, engaging experiences. Students explore both classic and contemporary literature, participate in Book Clubs, and build confidence through daily reading and writing.

Our approach includes:

• Spalding Phonics for integrated spelling, handwriting, and phonemic awareness

• Guided Reading groups tailored to each child’s level and growth

• Writing Workshop focused on creativity, structure, grammar, and self-expression

Students are encouraged to develop a love of reading both at school and at home, building habits that last a lifetime.

Building Mathematical Thinkers

Math at Discovery is active, visual, and meaningful. Students use manipulatives, games, and collaborative problem-solving to build a deep understanding of concepts.

Core areas include:

• Number sense and computation

• Place value and math fact fluency

• Measurement, time, and money

• Fractions and problem-solving

• Real-world applications of math

Our goal is not just accuracy, but confidence and flexibility in thinking.

Enrichment & Whole-Child Development

First Grade students participate in specialized resource classes including Spanish, Music, Motor Skills, and Science Lab. These experiences foster creativity, physical development, and a deeper engagement with scientific thinking through hands-on experimentation.

Learning continues beyond the classroom through “Life Work” (integrated at-home extensions), field trips, service opportunities, and special presentations that connect school, family, and community.

Growing Leaders

As the “Big Kids” of Discovery School, First Graders take on meaningful leadership roles. They raise the school and U.S. flags each day, collaborate on performances like a musical play and drum circle, and contribute to a class Legacy Gift through fundraising efforts.

Through these experiences, students develop responsibility, confidence, and a strong sense of belonging within the school community.

Program Details

• Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 2:30 PM

• Student–Teacher Ratio: 14:2