OUR ACADEMICS

Our unique curriculum aims to cultivate a love of learning and deep appreciation for nature, community, and the world around us. PHSSA curriculum features:
  • hands-on environmental learning and inspiration in our neighboring Forest Hill and James River Parks and in our amazing gardens
  • interdisciplinary approach to teaching all subjects
  • emphasis on environmental science as a core subject
  • integrated classroom academics with art instruction - arts are woven throughout instruction
  • sustained learning through progressive year-round calendar and small class sizes
  • community-taught units for intercessions and after school programs (PHASE)

The integrated curriculum at PHSSA is grounded in the Virginia state SOLs.  All subjects - language arts, math, social studies, science, and the arts - are taught through authentic connections.
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RPS STEM Fair Winners!
Congratulations to Chelsea Clark and Ryland Kennedy! Chelsea earned first place and Ryland took second place in the RPS STEM Fair!
Kudos to their teachers for helping and encouraging them!
Environmental Education
is a core element of our integrated science- and arts-based curriculum.  All PHSSA students participate in Environmental Education.

PHSSA's Environmental Education program is
An Education in Land Ethic and Stewardship and focus areas include:
  • Developing Personal Relationships with the Natural Word
  • Extending Classroom  Instruction
  • Learning to Solve Complex Problems
Click below for more information on each grade level or resource:
Kindergarten
1st Grade
2nd Grade
3rd Grade
4th Grade
5th Grade
Exceptional Education
Resources (Art, Environmental Education, Lightbulb Lab, Music, PE)
Our Gardens play an important role in our integrated curriculum and environmental education, too. Click here to learn more.