Grade Levels
1st Grade
Students in first grade experience a hands-on, multicultural curriculum that allows them to build a strong foundation as a Balboa scholar. They are introduced to prompts of depth and complexity that help them develop analytical and critical thinking skills while they grow a passion for learning. Throughout the year, students become more independent and write multiple paragraphs in different genres, including research projects. They also develop confidence in public speaking through various presentations and use a variety of formats to share their knowledge. First graders participate in several theater productions throughout the year like Aesop's Fables, Turkey Takes a Stand, Patterns in the Sky, and The Little Red Hen and go on field trips to extend the curriculum.
2nd Grade
Second graders at Balboa explore many different interdisciplinary units, including a celebration of their rich diversity, heritage, and cultural traditions around the world, analyzing the independence of living things and the impact of bees, and deeply diving into numerous addition and subtraction strategies so that scholars can pick the most efficient one. Teachers incorporate technology, like Google Slides presentations and stop-motion animation, into all content areas, which also allows for differentiation. In second grade, students take the OLSAT assessment in the spring.
3rd Grade
Balboa's third graders transition significantly from "learning to read" to "reading to learn." The curriculum emphasizes text annotation and supporting ideas with textual evidence. Scholars develop their writing skills, progressing from single paragraphs to crafting multiple paragraphs for narrative, opinion, and informative/explanatory essays. In mathematics, students apply all four types of operations to solve word problems effectively. Third grade scholars engage in a variety of enriching projects and events that enhance their learning experience. Notable activities include owl pellet dissections, Native American weaving, clay arts, creating fossil molds, and celebrating Native American Day. Additionally, students undertake the Smarter Balanced Assessments (SBA) in English Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics for the first time of their elementary school education in the spring of third grade.
4th Grade
The fourth graders at Balboa explore in depth and complexity our great state of California throughout the year from its five diverse regions to its native peoples to the origins of its mission system--and more--through a variety of hands-on projects, art pieces, and field trips. Scholars read many core literature books such as Island of the Blue Dolphins, By the Great Horn Spoon, and Esperanza Rising, which weave in California's layered past. They also begin to become more sophisticated writers, completing an autobiography project about their lives and a book of eight types of figurative language, as well as writing informative and narrative essays, such as their version of I Survived. In fourth grade, students may run for student council, creating an impact on the school community and allowing them to exercise all six pillars of character. Fourth graders mature to become problem solvers and more independent and resourceful thinkers, developing work habits that will bridge them successfully into their final year of elementary school.
5th Grade
Balboa's fifth grade offers a unique and experience-based year filled with growth and opportunity. From taking field trips to Griffith Park Observatory, Pantages Theater, and an overnight trip to Pali Mountain Institute, to participating in an engineering fair, STEAM lab projects, and multiple grade-level activities, scholars in fifth grade strive to achieve goals and grow both academically and socially as they prepare for the transition to middle school. At Balboa, fifth graders lead by example in a year filled with variety and challenges. They believe in each other, believe in themselves, and look forward to sharing their vast amount of knowledge as they end the year with a culmination ceremony to celebrate their elementary accomplishments.
Diversity at Balboa
The core mission of Balboa's magnet program is to offer a diverse, inclusive, and integrated educational experience that prepares students for a multicultural society, while addressing the persistent patterns of racial isolation. The rich, diverse student body strengthens learning opportunities and equips students with the essential skills to work effectively in diverse teams—an invaluable asset in today’s interconnected world.
One of the greatest benefits at Balboa is its uniquely diverse student population. This diversity fosters a dynamic classroom environment where students can collaborate in varied groups, exchanging ideas and perspectives. Group projects and small discussions encourage students to engage with peers from different backgrounds, broadening their understanding and sparking creative problem-solving. For instance, first graders explore "Cinderella" stories from multiple cultures in small groups, which not only enhances critical thinking but also promotes empathy and cultural awareness. These collaborative experiences help our students approach challenges with open minds and develop a deep respect for different cultures and beliefs, ultimately shaping them into thoughtful, compassionate leaders.