Ann Smith Elementary places a strong emphasis in the areas of reading and math. Our highly qualified teachers participate in continuing education programs to ensure they remain up-to-date on the latest teaching methods, while mastering new material and developing the expertise to most effectively educate their students.Our teachers, for instance, implement a balanced literacy approach to teach reading. Guided reading, a key component, uses small-group lessons to develop decoding and comprehension strategies. Whole-group lessons and shared reading also focus on the skills necessary for independent reading. Students read from a variety of nonfiction and fiction texts, through which science and social studies are taught. With ample individualized instruction, each child has the opportunity to advance at his or her own pace.Math is taught through a systematic approach. It includes counting and cardinality, operations & algebraic thinking, measurement & data, and geometry. Our instruction focuses on perseverance in problem solving, reasoning abstractly, plus quantitatively constructing viable arguments and critiquing the mathematical reasoning of others.Our curriculum also includes art, music, physical education, computer and library sessions. And our counselor provides a strong character education program, which culminates in our Super Titan recognition each month. She also works closely with our school nurse and physical education teacher to promote healthy food choices and exercise.At Ann Smith, we set high expectations for our students. We want them to grow academically, physically and emotionally, while building a lasting set of positive values. But, first and foremost, we want our children to succeed in life.