Specialist Programs
All PS1 students attend classes with our specialist teachers throughout the week, often in half-class groups, to allow for more individualized instruction. Our six specialists (The Studio, Art, Spanish, Music, Physical Education, and Library) frequently plan with classroom teachers to integrate the learning, resulting in projects that span many different subject areas and modes of learning.
Explore, Create, Move, Express:
The Studio, Art, Spanish, Music, P.E. & Library
The Studio
The Studio is an innovative makerspace where students engage in hands-on, problem-based learning. Students learn to safely use tools and technologies such as woodworking equipment, electronics, laser cutting, and 3D printing to bring their ideas to life.
The Studio emphasizes STEAM learning—Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math—as students ask questions, design, build, test, refine, and share their work. Through this process, students develop a strong foundation in design thinking and the engineering process.
Design thinking has been central to PS1’s teaching philosophy since the school’s founding in 1971. It values learning as a process, from early exploration and research through reflection and presentation, rather than focusing solely on the final product.
Students learn to navigate ambiguity, practice empathy, experiment, and embrace failure as an opportunity for growth. This optimistic approach empowers students to see themselves as capable problem-solvers who can make a meaningful impact in their world.
Art
The arts are woven into every subject at PS1, often inspired by the natural world. Geometry comes to life through architectural models, scientific observations take shape as ink drawings or topographical clay maps, and writing is frequently paired with illustration.
Students also learn in a dedicated art studio that provides rich, hands-on experiences and the tools and techniques that support young artists as they grow. Working across a wide range of media—including pen, paint, pastels, ceramics, and tile mosaics—students explore color, line, form, and perspective while developing an appreciation for materials and process. Nature, sustainability, and environmental responsibility are central to our work, with many projects incorporating recycled and sustainably sourced materials.
Students study artists and art history, engage in thoughtful discussion and critique, explore artistic expression from cultures around the world, and consider how art can reflect and respond to the environment.
Spanish
The Spanish program is designed to foster a love of language and culture, guided by ACTFL standards that inform our goals, outcomes, and assessments. Through songs, play, and cross-curricular connections, students are immersed in Spanish from kindergarten through sixth grade. Beyond Spanish class, students encounter the language throughout the school day in their classrooms, during school-wide events, and through literature across the curriculum.
Spanish is a living language within our community, spoken by students, staff, and families. As the program continues to grow, we aim to deepen opportunities to engage the broader community and celebrate our shared love of language learning.
Music
Our music program integrates curricular themes through song and genre while giving all students regular, hands-on experience with pitch and rhythm. Students learn to read, write, and perform music from a wide range of cultures and historical periods using Orff, percussion, wind, and tonal instruments. Each week, students engage in singing, music theory, music appreciation, and foundational instrument skills.
Music is woven into classroom learning and also taught as a stand-alone subject, with an emphasis on active participation and performance. Students regularly share their learning at assemblies, community events, and in our annual Music, Movement, and Drama performances and musicals. This year, students are performing James and the Giant Peach and Madagascar.
Additional instrumental instruction is available before school through our partnership with Sounds Like LA (formerly the Santa Monica Youth Orchestra), as well as through our afterschool Clubhouse program.
Physical Education
Physical Education at PS1 takes a holistic approach to developing physical skills, confidence, and social connection through movement and sport. Students engage in a wide range of athletic and movement-based activities—including basketball, soccer, lacrosse, Ultimate Frisbee, flag football, volleyball, yoga, dance, circus arts, and ropes courses—that build strength, coordination, and agility.
Our P.E. program is designed to meet each child where they are, supporting individual growth while encouraging teamwork and collaboration. Through games, skill-building, and team sports, students practice sportsmanship, fair play, and perseverance, developing physical confidence and a love of being active. Most of all, P.E. at PS1 is joyful, fostering lifelong habits of movement, play, and wellness.
Library
The Library is the literal heart of PS1, open before, during, and after the school day to students, faculty, and families. Its thoughtfully curated collection supports classroom learning while also inviting leisure reading and the exploration of individual interests and passions.
PS1’s commitment to pluralism is reflected in the depth and breadth of the collection, which includes diverse fiction and nonfiction that represents many voices, perspectives, and lived experiences. Our full-time librarian works with every class throughout the week, leading read-alouds, supporting reading comprehension, and helping students develop research skills, critical thinking, and a lifelong love of reading. Students and families are also welcome to borrow books, extending learning and joy beyond the school day.
The Studio at PS1: An Introduction to our STEAM Program
Want to learn more about the creative and innovative projects happening at The Studio? CLICK to watch our video, created by PS1 parents, detailing students' project-based learning enhanced by our STEAM program.
The Living Art Room at PS1: An Introduction to our ART Program
Want to learn more about the Living Art Room at PS1? CLICK to watch our video, created by PS1 parents, detailing students' inspiring art projects, and hear from our Art Specialist, Lina, about the value of arts education at PS1.