Upper Elementary – our preparatory program
A different kind of 4th & 5th grade experience.
Preparing students for Miami's leading middle schools.
4th and 5th grade represent an important bridge between childhood and adolescence. At La Prima Casa, our Upper Elementary program is intentionally designed to prepare students for the expectations of traditional middle school while maintaining the personalized attention and whole-child philosophy that define our school.
Students benefit from challenging academics, intentionally small class sizes, and individualized instruction that encourages both achievement and personal growth. As expectations increase, children develop the executive functioning skills necessary for long-term success, including organization, time management, study skills, responsibility, and independent learning.
Our program places a strong emphasis on leadership, public speaking, collaboration, and critical thinking, empowering students to communicate effectively, solve complex problems, and approach new challenges with confidence. These experiences help students become capable, self-directed learners who are well prepared for the next stage of their education.
La Prima Casa Experience – education beyond the classroom:
- Italian – We celebrate Maria Montessori's country of origin! Introduction to the Italian language through engaging, age-appropriate lessons that build vocabulary, conversational skills, and cultural appreciation. Early language learning encourages cognitive flexibility while broadening each child's understanding of the world.
- Physical Education – Our physical education program promotes healthy habits, teamwork, sportsmanship, and physical fitness through active play and structured activities. Students develop coordination, perseverance, and confidence while learning the value of an active lifestyle.
- Visual Arts – Creativity flourishes as students explore a variety of artistic techniques and mediums while developing self-expression and an appreciation for the arts. Art encourages imagination, problem-solving, and confidence in creative thinking. In fact, we've received many awards at the recent Miami-Dade County Fair.
- Yoga – Yoga helps students develop mindfulness, balance, flexibility, and self-regulation. Through movement and breathing exercises, children strengthen their focus, manage stress, and build confidence in both body and mind.
- Gardening – Students assist in maintaining our school's garden. They also prepare dishes from a variety of fruits and vegetables around a theme. We also observe different wildlife we find on campus. Recently, we raised 4 giant swallowtails, trained a crew of lizards, and managed the carnivorous plant bog. And, of course, no gardener is complete without learning how to use a few basic tools!
- Core Values – Character development is woven into every aspect of life at La Prima Casa. Through daily interactions and purposeful classroom experiences, students cultivate respect, responsibility, kindness, integrity, perseverance, and empathy—values that prepare them to become compassionate leaders and engaged members of their community.
- Science Enrichment – We explore scientific concepts through observation, experimentation, and inquiry-based activities that spark curiosity and encourage critical thinking. Hands-on investigations make learning meaningful while inspiring a lifelong love of discovery.
- Experiential Learning & Field Trips – Learning extends far beyond the classroom. Students regularly explore the community through meaningful field experiences, including visits to Miami's museums, The Underline, and the Brickell neighborhood, where they also learn practical life skills such as navigating public transportation. These authentic experiences help students connect classroom learning to the real world while building confidence and independence.
Signature Program: Young Entrepreneurs Marketplace.
Real-world learning is a hallmark of the Upper Elementary experience. Through our signature Young Entrepreneurs Marketplace, students gain hands-on experience in financial literacy and entrepreneurship by creating products, developing business plans, managing budgets, marketing their ideas, and selling their work through authentic marketplace experiences.
Along the way, students learn valuable lessons in innovation, teamwork, ethical leadership, customer service, and responsible decision-making while discovering how creativity and perseverance can transform an idea into reality.
A bridge to what's next.
As an accredited member of the Florida Council of Independent Schools (FCIS), La Prima Casa is committed to the highest standards of independent school education. Our graduates are consistently accepted into many of Miami's most respected middle schools because they leave our program with strong academic preparation, confidence, maturity, and the independence to thrive.
We don't simply prepare students for middle school—we prepare them for a lifetime of learning, leadership, and purpose.
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