Elementary
Elementary school is where students build a strong academic foundation that prepares them for future success, developing essential skills in literacy, mathematics, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Through dynamic, age-appropriate instruction, SSPPS creates meaningful learning experiences that spark curiosity and encourage academic growth. Our dedicated teachers foster a supportive environment where students feel engaged in their learning, educated through strong foundational academics, and empowered to think critically, collaborate confidently, and develop the skills they need to thrive both in and beyond the classroom.
South St. Paul Public Schools has two elementary schools: Kaposia Education Center and Lincoln Center. Both serve grades K-5 and house preschool programs for our Early Learning department. Visit the enrollment page to see the boundaries for the two elementary schools.
Core Classes
Core classes include math, reading, and social-emotional lessons. These lay the foundation for lifelong learning by focusing on essential skills and personal growth. Math develops problem-solving and critical thinking, while reading and literacy build comprehension and communication. These academic areas are complemented by social-emotional learning (SEL), which helps students understand and manage emotions, build positive relationships, and make responsible decisions. Together, these core subjects provide a well-rounded education that supports both academic success and emotional well-being.
Curriculum
- Math: Math Expressions
- Reading:
- Foundational Reading: UFLI (K-2), Functional Morphology (3-5)
- Knowledge Building: Wit & Wisdom (K-5)
- Social Emotional: Be Good People Curriculum
Advanced Academics & Support
Advanced Academics
Talent Development and Advanced Academics (TDAA) offer enrichment opportunities, challenging students to explore their potential through critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Together, these supports create a dynamic learning environment where all students are empowered to succeed.
Academic Support
Academic supports in elementary school varies due to diverse student needs, ensuring every learner thrives. Reading and math interventions provide targeted, personalized instruction to strengthen foundational skills, close learning gaps, and build confidence.
Specialists
Elementary students have the opportunity to learn from specialist teachers in Art, Media, Music, Physical Education, and Science. These engaging programs enrich the core curriculum, foster creativity and curiosity, promote healthy lifestyles, and help students develop a wide range of skills and interests that support lifelong learning. Classes visit each specialist for one hour each week.
Art: Our Art specialist inspires creativity and self-expression through hands-on projects that introduce students to a variety of artistic techniques, materials, and styles. Students develop confidence, problem-solving skills, and an appreciation for the visual arts while creating meaningful works of their own.Md
Media: The Media specialist helps students become thoughtful readers, researchers, and digital citizens. Through engaging library and technology experiences, students learn to locate information, evaluate sources, explore literature, and use technology responsibly to support learning. They also use this time to check books out from the media center to read in their classroom or at home.
Music: Our Music specialist fosters a love of music through singing, movement, instrument exploration, and performance opportunities. Students build musical skills while developing creativity, collaboration, and an appreciation for diverse musical traditions and cultures. In 5th grade, all students explore band. Students have the opportunity to explore a variety of band instruments, including the clarinet, flute, trombone, and trumpet, throughout the school year. This hands-on experience helps them discover their interests and talents while preparing them to make an informed choice about their music elective as they transition to middle school in sixth grade.
Physical Education: The Physical Education specialist promotes healthy lifestyles and lifelong fitness through active, engaging lessons. Students develop motor skills, teamwork, sportsmanship, and confidence while participating in a variety of physical activities in a supportive environment.
Science: Our Science specialist sparks curiosity and a passion for discovery through hands-on investigations and inquiry-based learning. Students explore the natural world, develop critical thinking skills, and engage in meaningful scientific practices that encourage questioning, problem-solving, and exploration. Both elementary schools feature outdoor classrooms that allow students to extend their learning beyond the traditional classroom, bringing science and nature to life through authentic, real-world experiences.
Extra-Curricular Activities
Extra-curricular activities provide valuable opportunities to supplement classroom learning by encouraging students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and build meaningful connections. Our elementary schools offer different kinds of after school opportunities ranging from athletics and the arts to science and student leadership. These opportunities allow students to apply what they’ve learned in the classroom in real-world contexts while discovering their passions and talents.
Some Extra-Curriculars Include:
- Lego League
- Student Leadership
- Performing Arts
- Sports & Recreation
