There are three multi-age teams that meet regularly to work and learn through thematic units. The PTC also funds multi-age team planning by paying for the cost of monthly substitute teachers so that staff can meet together to plan units and activities. All first grade students and teachers stay together for two years, a practice that is enthusiastically supported by parents, teachers, and students. This two year cycle enables students to develop friendships and working relationships over time. Teachers see significant advantages in second grade as learning begins in earnest on the very first day of school.
Teachers present a rigorous curriculum that incorporates the articulated district standards.
Students have many opportunities to create and to showcase their knowledge, especially in the fifth grade social studies curriculum where students conduct independent research and present projects and products that demonstrate mastery of the standards. At Explorer all students utilize technology in their daily learning. The networked computer lab allows students to use the computer and the Internet as tools in their learning. Plans also include connecting the LAN to the Internet and now the World Wide Web will be accessible in every classroom in addition to the present Internet connections that exist in the lab and media center. Parents are true partners in the educational journey at Explorer.