Teacher with students in the classroom

Welcome to Rochambeau Elementary School! 

Our Director of Elementary School

Jean Pierre Plaa

Jean Pierre Plaa

Fundamentally, I believe that school is a place where everyone should have a place and grow: students, teachers, administrators. The pursuit of excellence is a goal for everyone."

"The students must live and learn in other languages, understand and accept differences, and transform those differences into a strength: this is the school of tomorrow."

 

Maplewood Campus hours

  • 7:00am-7:45am - Access to campus for morning care 
  • 7:00am - 8:25am - Morning Care 
  • 8:00am - 8:25am - Student bus arrivals (5 years and older as of September 1)
  • 8:15am - 8:40am - Students arrive by car (under 5 years old as of September 1) 
  • 8:45 am - 3:25 pm - Class time 
  • 3:30-5:30 - Evening Care/Study/Clubs 
  • 5:30-6:30 pm - Extended evening care

Cycles of learning

Rochambeau’s elementary school curriculum is divided into Cycles that allow students time to learn at their own pace and to build on the solid skills and knowledge base they acquire each year.

 Cycle 2, “Fundamental Learning” :
CP to CE2 (Grades 1-3)

 

This cycle focuses on strengthening reading skills in both French and English, enhancing oral and written comprehension, and introducing foundational concepts in mathematics, such as number formation and basic calculations.

As they progress, students improve their oral expression across all subjects, expand their vocabulary, refine their spelling and develop their cursive writing. Each child is supported at their own pace in a nurturing environment. Mastery of the fundamentals in French language and mathematics is a top priority throughout Cycle 2.

The program also includes visual arts, music, physical education, moral and civic education, and an introduction to exploring the world (science, space, time), which fosters curiosity and observational skills.

Students gradually learn to solve more complex problems and to articulate reasoned responses to open-ended questions, encouraging the development of critical thinking.

A wide range of skills are nurtured, including logical reasoning, observation, experimentation, motor coordination, artistic sensitivity, and creativity.

In English, students are grouped by proficiency level, allowing for tailored instruction that supports progress for all learners, whether beginners or native speakers.

Teachers provide personalized support through differentiated instruction, and co-teaching practices are regularly implemented to better meet individual needs and ensure attentive, targeted guidance for every student.

"My child is starting 1st grade" Info

 Cycle 3, “Consolidation”: CM1 to 6e (Grades 4-6)

 

From CM1 to 6e, students build on the foundation laid in Cycle 2 and deepen their knowledge in key areas such as history, geography, art history, science, technology, and civic education.

Cm1 and CM2 (Grades 4 and 5) are part of Cycle 3, the Consolidation Cycle, which helps solidify core competencies, especially in French and mathematics, essential subjects for success in middle school.

Students are introduced to the scientific method, enhance their reasoning and observation skills, and continue to develop literary, artistic, and creative sensitivity. Fine and gross motor skills are also nurtured through various activities.

Teachers provide individualized support through differentiated teaching. Co-teaching practices allow for more personalized instruction, helping to address the diverse needs of all learners.

The 6ème (Grade 6) is a pivotal year that serves as a transition to middle school. It introduces students to a new rhythm, structure and pedagogical approach. From this stage onward, all subjects are taught by specialist teachers, gradually preparing students for greater independence and the academic expectations of secondary education.

Open House Presentation - December 2022

Overview by grade

Assessing Student Progress

The French curriculum sets expectations for the end of each cycle and specifies targeted competencies and knowledge. Using benchmarks, teaching staff must tailor various learning to suit student's ages and acquisition rates. Two standardized tests in mathematics and in French are administered once or twice a year to measure student progress.

From 1st to 5th grade the curriculum is mainly supported by a single multi-skilled teacher who can provide cross-disciplinary teaching and establish links between the various areas of the common foundation. Select subjects, including English, are taught by specialists as outlined in the previous tables.

ENTERING 1ST GRADE Measuring students capacity to learn how to read and verbal skills + Mathematics skills
END OF 1ST GRADE Reading fluency and spelling capacities
ENTERING 3RD GRADE Measuring literacy + Mathematics capacities

Elementary School News