Lincoln Upper Elementary School in Washington, IA | 3rd-5th Grade Education

In the heart of Washington, Iowa, Lincoln Upper Elementary School serves a crucial role in the educational journey of local students, specifically catering to those in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades. As a key component of the Washington Community School District, the school is designed to bridge the gap between primary foundations and middle school readiness. With a focus on academic needs of upper elementary students. This guide explores the specialized programs, supportive culture, and educational philosophy that make this school an essential step for young learners.

The Unique Role of an Upper Elementary School

Lincoln Upper Elementary occupies a distinct and important niche in the district's structure. By focusing exclusively on 3rd through 5th grades, the school can tailor its entire approach to the developmental stage of these students.

• Transition from Primary to Intermediate: This period marks a significant shift from "learning to read" to "reading to learn." The school's curriculum and instruction are specifically designed to support this critical academic transition.
• Developing Independence: Students at this age are becoming more independent learners. The school environment encourages them to take greater responsibility for their work, organization, and time management—skills essential for future success.
• Targeted Support: Teachers and staff are experts in the curriculum and social-emotional needs of this specific age group, allowing for highly targeted instruction and support.

Academic Rigor and Curriculum

The academic program at Lincoln Upper Elementary is aligned with Iowa Core standards and is designed to build upon the foundational skills learned in earlier grades while introducing more complex concepts.

• Advanced Literacy: The literacy program deepens comprehension skills, analytical thinking, and writing proficiency. Students engage with more complex texts and are encouraged to express their ideas through well-structured writing across various genres.
• STEM Integration: Science and Math instruction becomes more hands-on and inquiry-based. Students explore scientific concepts through experiments and problem-solving, while mathematics focuses on multi-step problems, fractions, and early algebraic thinking.
• Social Studies Expansion: The curriculum expands students' understanding of their community, state, and nation, often incorporating projects that connect history and civics to the world around them.
• Specialist Rotations: Students typically rotate through specialist classes such as Art, Music, Physical Education, and Library/Technology, which are essential for a well-rounded education and for helping students discover new interests.

The School Culture and Community

The culture at Lincoln Upper Elementary is built on high expectations, mutual respect, and school pride.

• "Lincoln Lions" Pride: The school mascot, the Lion, fosters a strong sense of identity and community. School spirit events, academic celebrations, and positive behavior incentives help create an engaging and motivating atmosphere.
• Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS): The school likely implements a PBIS framework to proactively teach and reinforce positive behaviors, creating a safe and respectful learning environment for all.
• Leadership Opportunities: As the oldest students in an elementary setting, 5th graders are often given leadership roles, such as safety patrols or mentoring younger students, which helps build confidence and responsibility.
• Strong Home-School Connection: The school maintains strong communication with families through newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, and an active Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO), recognizing that partnership is key to student success.

Student Support and Enrichment

Lincoln Upper Elementary is committed to meeting the diverse academic and social-emotional needs of its students.

• Differentiated Instruction: Teachers use data to inform instruction and provide differentiated learning experiences within the classroom, ensuring that all students are appropriately challenged and supported.
• Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS): The school utilizes an MTSS framework to provide increasingly intensive academic and behavioral support for students who need it.
• School Counselor: A school counselor plays a vital role in supporting students' social-emotional learning, academic success, and future planning. They may teach classroom lessons on topics like bullying prevention and career awareness.
• Enrichment and Clubs: The school may offer extracurricular activities such as choir, band, robotics club, or academic competitions to allow students to pursue their passions beyond the standard curriculum.

The Path Through Washington Schools

Understanding the district structure helps frame a student's journey:

1. Primary School: Students attend for grades K-2.
2. Lincoln Upper Elementary: Students attend for grades 3-5.
3. Middle School: Students transition to Washington Middle School for grades 6-8.

This structured pathway ensures a smooth and supported transition at each stage.

Admissions and Enrollment

As a public school, enrollment is based on residency within the Washington Community School District boundaries.

1. Verify Residency: Families must provide proof of residence within the district.
2. Complete Registration: New families can register through the district's online portal or by contacting the district office. Required documents typically include a birth certificate, immunization records, and proof of residency.
3. Transition Planning: For students moving up from the primary school, the transition to Lincoln Upper Elementary is a coordinated process facilitated by teachers and counselors from both buildings.
4. School Tours: Prospective families are encouraged to contact the school office at (319) 653-3691 to schedule a tour and learn more about the programs offered.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What grades does Lincoln Upper Elementary serve?

Lincoln Upper Elementary School serves students in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades.

What is the school's address and phone number?

The school is located at 606 S 4th Ave, Washington, IA 52353. The main phone number is (319) 653-3691.

Is Lincoln Upper Elementary a public school?

Yes, it is a public school within the Washington Community School District.

What is the difference between an "upper elementary" and a regular elementary school?

An upper elementary school focuses specifically on the 3rd-5th grade age group, allowing for a curriculum and school culture tailored to the academic and social needs of these students as they prepare for middle school.

What are the school hours?

School hours for Washington CSD are typically from around 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Please check the school's website for the exact daily schedule.

How can parents get involved?

Parents can get involved by joining the PTO, volunteering for school events, attending parent-teacher conferences, and supporting their child's learning at home.

What supports are available for students?

The school provides a range of supports, including differentiated instruction, intervention programs, and the guidance of a school counselor.

What is the school mascot?

The school mascot is the Lincoln Lion, which represents strength and pride.

Conclusion

Lincoln Upper Elementary School plays a pivotal role in the Washington Community School District, providing a specialized and supportive environment for 3rd through 5th graders. By focusing on academic rigor, character development, and the cultivation of independent learning skills, the school expertly prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of middle school and beyond. For families in Washington, Lincoln Upper Elementary is a dedicated partner in nurturing confident, capable, and curious learners.