Enrichment Programs

"The teacher is one who makes two ideas grow where only one grew there before." --Elbert Hubbard

The enrichment programs at Sunset Mesa build upon our philosophy of Multiple Intelligences, enhancing the education of the student. Beginning in kindergarten, students receive weekly instruction from enrichment specialists. Playing board games in Spanish, writing computer programs, building confidence through our physical education program and learning to express themselves through art or music are only a few of the ways our students realize their full potential.

Our Fine Arts programs represent the beginning steps toward opening the doors of self-expression. From creating simple compositions to performing in a staged musical, our interactive Music program develops both the kinesthetic and musical intelligences. The goal in the Art curriculum is to create enthusiasm and appreciation for fine arts and for the student artists' growth through a natural progression of experiences. The children learn to apply numerous methods (drawing, painting, sculpting, collage, printmaking) to create art. They are encouraged to evaluate their feelings and experiences resulting in continuous improvements in technique and further exploration of alternative methods.

Sunset Mesa has integrated computer technology throughout the curriculum. The elementary campus is networked with computers in each classroom and in two student labs. One lab is utilized for instruction by a specialist in software literacy and keyboarding skills. The other lab is used by students as they utilize computer skills in their research and classroom projects. The Sunset Mesa faculty has been trained in Intel's Teach to the Future curriculum, which provides a model for infusing technology into content area curriculum. Living in the Southwest, we believe that learning Spanish is very important, and each student is exposed to Spanish beginning in kindergarten, when learning a second language is easier.

Our Physical Education program offers a wide variety of challenging physical activities and sports. Team building and skill development at the individual, as well as the group level, are emphasized. Our full-time Librarian introduces students to different literature genres, preparing them for scholarly work in later schooling.

Throughout a Sunset Mesa education, students are exposed to these enriching subjects on their way to becoming well-rounded individuals.

For more about Sunset Mesa's educational environment, see the Curriculum area of the website.