Co-Curricular Academics

Co-curricular Academics

Visual Arts

Get ready to unleash creativity! Our K-4th Grade students dive into weekly art instruction, while our 5th-8th Graders enjoy the excitement of twice-weekly classes! The UFS Art program sparks imagination through the elements of art: line, shape, form, color, texture, space, and value. With engaging projects designed for each age group, students master techniques and tools in a fun, exploratory environment that celebrates their unique expressions and personal voices.

Music

Our music program offers a dynamic keyboard lab for our older students to develop their skills. We provide a variety of opportunities students to study specific instrumental experiences, all guided by our dedicated music teacher.

With weekly sessions, students engage in singing, listening, performing, understanding, and music composition, nurturing their creativity and musical talents. Additionally, students in 1st through 8th grade can join the United Voices of Friends Choir, further enhancing their musical journey.

Spanish

At UFS, we’re thrilled to weave the Spanish language into our curriculum from preschool all the to eighth grade! Our preschool through fifth-grade program invites students to explore the language and culture through engaging conversations, music, games, and fun role-plays. They'll dive into the rich and diverse Hispanic culture with captivating stories, lively songs, delicious foods, and joyous celebrations! As they progress into grades six through eight, students build on their strong foundation and delve into the world of grammar, mastering verb conjugations and tenses. They are encouraged to unleash their creativity by composing and performing in Spanish, showcasing their growing command of this beautiful language.

In addition, many of our 5th to 8th grade students will be embarking on an exciting adventure to Costa Rica for an engaging field trip in April. This trip promises to be a wonderful opportunity for students to explore the beauty of Costa Rica while learning about its rich culture and environment. We can’t wait to see the students make unforgettable memories and gain valuable experiences during this journey!

Preschool & Kindergarten students enjoy weekly Spanish sessions, while Grades 1-4 meet twice a week, and Grades 5-8 meet two times a week.

Library & Information Technology Literacy

Every week, students from all grades flock to the library, diving into exciting read-als and engaging activities that introduce them to a world of authors and genres! Our vibrant library curriculum focuses on three key areas: literature appreciation, library skills, and research and technology. Through our Information Technology Literacy program, students enhance their tech skills, learning how to access online information responsibly and safely. Plus, UFS students are empowered with essential digital literacy skills like keyboarding and coding, boosting their technical knowledge and honing their critical thinking abilities.

Get ready to dive into an exciting world of learning! In our middle school classrooms, we harness the power of technology to empower students to explore topics like never before. They’ll master applications to research and gather data for their projects while building skills that extend far beyond the classroom. Our dedicated Librarian is here to support teachers on research projects, ensuring students have access to a treasure of books and becoming their go-to resource!

The Library and Technology Literacy program is all about providing:
- Cutting-edge technology tools that boost student success improve access to information and enhance communication.
- A dynamic curriculum woven into every subject, taught and utilized whenever needed.
- Support for the school’s learning goals while igniting a passion for reading and discovery!

Our library curriculum complements the Language Arts curriculum, aligning the National Standards for Information Literacy and the Standards for 21st Centuryners. Let's embark on this incredible learning adventure together.

Physical Education

We’re dedicated to nurturing happy, healthy, and successful students through classes that blend fun physical activity, essential skill-building, fitness, and teamwork. Every student enjoys the thrill of physical education twice a week while our Preschoolers and Kindergarten students dive into weekly sessions packed with energy and joy.

Student Robotics

The Helmon Osborn robotics classes offer an exciting journey into the world of Arduino boards, coding, and robotics. Students enhance their problem-solving skills and foster innovative thinking in a hands-on environment. Our program is enriched by three 3-D printers generously donated an alumnus, providing additional opportunities for creativity and exploration.

Outdoor Education and Creek Study

All students, beginning in Kindergarten, engage in outdoor education, where they develop valuable life skills and learn about our environment. During their bi-weekly creek study classes, they explore the local creek and parks, creating memorable experiences. They also utilize the outdoor classroom on campus, enriching the learning done in their core classes.