Student Job Program for Fourth and Fifth Graders at Union Day School
At Union Day School, fourth and fifth graders have the exciting opportunity to apply for one of about 30 available student jobs. These roles allow students to contribute to our school community while developing important skills.
Lower School
K-5 Curriculum
UDS K-5 students receive instruction in Singapore Math®, a structured literacy approach, comprehensive and multi-sensory handwriting and cursive instruction through Handwriting Without Tears®, and inquiry-based science.
Beginning in kindergarten, all students will take Spanish, as well as Music, Art, and Physical Education every year.
UDS takes an inquiry approach to classroom learning, allowing students to build critical thinking, research, problem solving, and communication skills while engaging more deeply with topics and ideas that spark their love of learning.
UDS is preparing our lower school students for the International Baccalaureate programs offered in grades sixth through twelve grades.
Kindergarten
First Grade
Second Grade
Third Grade
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Fourth Grade
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Application Process:
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Students express their interest by submitting an application.
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References are checked to ensure students meet expectations.
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Successful candidates are offered a position.
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Once accepted, students participate in an orientation to prepare for their roles.
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After orientation, students begin their jobs and contribute meaningfully during the school day.
Eligibility Requirements:
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Maintain good academic standing.
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Demonstrate appropriate behavior in the classroom.
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Follow all school rules and guidelines consistently.
How This Prepares Students:
Participating in the job program helps students build responsibility, time management, and teamwork skills. It promotes a sense of pride and belonging while teaching real-world work habits in a supportive environment.
Preparation and Rewards:
This program prepares students by fostering responsibility, time management, and teamwork skills. It encourages leadership and builds confidence. The experience also helps students feel connected to their school community and proud of their contributions. These valuable skills and experiences will benefit them throughout their academic careers and beyond. They also get some perks like a pizza party periodically, some snacks, and an opportunity to go to the vending machine.
Advanced and Gifted Learner Program Overview
To meet the needs of our high-level and gifted learners, we deliver an inductive, investigative, and inquiry-based program designed to:
An interest inventory is administered to each learner to personalize and enhance the learning experience.
Program Model:
We utilize a pullout model that promotes critical thinking and reasoning through:
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Developing and expanding thinking and creative problem-solving skills
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Employing differentiated learning strategies and exploratory skills
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Building and extending cognitive language abilities
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Designing and conducting meaningful research projects using inquiry methods
Participants:
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Students in grades 2–5 identified as high-level learners
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Eligibility based on scoring in the 90th percentile on MAP testing, proficient EOG scores, and teacher recommendations
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Additionally, push-in support with high-level lessons is provided to all classes to serve a broader range of learners
Curriculum Resources:
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Advance level and gifted Curriculum from the College of William and Mary (Jacob’s Ladder)
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CLEAR program from the University of Virginia
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Advanced Curriculum from Vanderbilt University
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Kaplan’s Depth & Complexity Model
"As the facilitator of this advanced learner program, I stay current with best practices and pedagogy. I am an active member of the National Association of Gifted Children (NAGC) and participate regularly in relevant webinars. This program emphasizes an inquiry-based approach designed to build strong reasoning and critical thinking skills."
- UDS Gifted/Talented Teacher