First grade EXCEL scholars will be studying thinking and practice at least six different types of thinking skills utilized by scholars.  Emphasis will be placed on language of the disciplines, details, and big ideas as they relate to thinking. 

Second grade scholars will be studying mysteries and employ “detective thinking skills” to solve mysteries.  Young gum shoes will hone their observation skills to attempt to answer the unknown.  

Third grade EXCEL scholars will be studying challenges as well as famous people who have faced them.  Scholars will be required to problem-solve “challenging” situations that require “outside the box” thinking to arrive at the best possible solution(s). 

Fourth grade EXCEL scholars will be conducting explorations in the fields of mathematics (Shapes in Nature) and architecture.  Scholars will be required to look beyond the obvious to make successful connections across the disciplines as well as construct patterns and rules within those disciplines.

Fifth grade EXCEL scholars will be studying power and its effects on the US judicial system and economics.  Scholars will be required to take a stand and argue the ethical and moral considerations as they apply to the law.  Students will also be encouraged to consider different points of view in their decision making processes.  In addition, students will also be challenged to detect trends, ponder big ideas and discuss changes over time as they pertain to our economy.