Specialists Program

As part of an enriching and well-rounded program, all students at Giddens participate in specialists programs, completing their full cycle of programs each week: music and performance, library, PE, and Spanish language & cultures.

Music and Performance

Singing and dancing imbues this program at grade age level. Students use rhythm instruments, bodies, voices, and imaginations to practice steady beat, using a light/high singing voice, and playing games and instruments as part of a group.

Older students practice and gain experience playing as an ensemble of musicians. As they develop in skill level, they work with multiple ways of notating music, sing songs with complicated rhythms and melodies, and develop independence singing and playing rhythm instruments.

Our oldest grades learn melodic instruments (ukulele, flute, or recorder), practice standard notation, and work on singing independently in rounds, canons, and partner songs.

Library

Our library is a beloved space, both warm and inviting, and full of high quality literature that our students get to explore and enjoy. Our library program builds on our students' natural curiosity about the world, with a focus on introducing students to new places, people, and ideas through a variety of book genres. All students participate in Read Alouds and receive ample time to explore books on their own or with peers. Students are invited to actively engage with reading through dynamic topic discussions that strengthen skills in making connections with the text.

As students get older, they learn more about how to find books and put away books correctly using a system, as well as learning to check out books and the importance of bringing books back.

PE

Our Physical Education program supports students’ physical, cognitive, and social-emotional development through active, joyful, and age-appropriate movement experiences. Grounded in SHAPE America standards, the curriculum builds motor skills, fitness, teamwork, and a lifelong appreciation for physical activity.

Throughout the year, students explore a variety of units—from basketball and flag football to gymnastics, parkour, jump rope, and parachute games. Engaging tools like scarves, beanbags, scooter boards, and the oversized Omnikin ball add creativity and fun to each lesson. Classes emphasize movement concepts such as balance, coordination, and spatial awareness, while partner and group games nurture collaboration and confidence. School-wide events like the Jump Rope Challenge and Field Day highlight the joy of movement and shared celebration.

Spanish Language & Cultures