Living the Learning: A Graland Journey from Kindergarten to Grade 8

At Graland, education extends beyond the classroom walls, bringing interdisciplinary experiences to life. Signature programs across grade levels create a rich tapestry of learning, fostering curiosity, leadership, communication skills, and community connection. As students journey from Kindergarten through Grade 8, they participate in milestone events that embody our founding headmistress Georgia Nelson’s vision: “Live the Learning.”

The adventure begins with the Kindergarten Rodeo, where students step into the boots of cowpokes to learn about Colorado’s Western heritage. After visiting the National Western Stock Show, students engage in an interdisciplinary unit incorporating art, literacy, and music. The highlight is a student-led performance, complete with songs, storytelling, and dance, culminating in the cherished “Coyote Song.” This first public speaking opportunity builds confidence and introduces students to the power of sharing their learning with an audience.

In Grade 1, students become conservationists through the bird unit, an exploration of bird species that spans science, art, Spanish, and literacy. They design inventions to aid their feathered friends, visit a bird sanctuary, and care for baby chicks in science, observing their development from eggs to hatching. Students also compile a full bird report, presenting their findings and reflections, building confidence in written and verbal communication. This year-long study fosters creativity, empathy, and a sense of responsibility for the natural world.

Second graders take center stage as they showcase their Biography Expo, a celebration of “Changemakers.” Through research, writing, and artistic expression, students explore historical and contemporary figures who have shaped the world. They create multimedia projects and develop innovative inventions in the Gates Lab to support the mission of their chosen individual. The experience culminates in a formal exhibition where students share their learning with parents, educators, and peers—strengthening storytelling, public speaking, and the ability to articulate ideas clearly and confidently.

Third graders dive into Colorado’s history and geography through immersive field trips to locations including Chief Mountain, the Plains Conservation Center, Argo Mine, and the History Colorado Center.They also create three-dimensional relief maps of the state using salt dough, paint, and other materials in the Gates Lab, which they showcase to classmates and teachers. These experiences help students develop a stronger connection to their home state while learning to express their knowledge visually and verbally.

Fourth graders step into the spotlight with their first full-scale musical production, combining acting, choreography, and song. With two casts, every student has the opportunity to participate in a purposeful way—either onstage in a speaking, singing, or dancing role or behind the scenes as part of the set-building or stage crew teams. These experiences allow students to develop confidence, collaboration skills, and creative expression. Whether performing or supporting the production from backstage, each student contributes to an engaging show shared with the Lower School and parent community.

The tradition of Knighting in Grade 5 is a rite of passage combining history, character development, and service. Students study medieval life, design personal shields, and complete acts of kindness to earn their knighthood. During the secret ceremony, each student delivers a personal reflection about their journey, speaking in front of peers, parents, and teachers. These moments deepen the experience and offer valuable practice in self-expression. The celebration concludes with a campus-wide parade honoring their accomplishments.

Service learning in Grade 6 focuses on poverty, homelessness, and food insecurity. Throughout the year, students engage in impactful projects such as assembling toiletry kits, organizing food drives, and volunteering at Jewish Family Services (JFS) and Capitol Hill Community Services. Their efforts culminate in the Empty Bowls event, where they craft ceramic bowls as symbols of hunger awareness and share a simple meal with families and educators. As they speak about their learning and the causes they’ve supported, sixth graders practice advocacy and develop a deeper understanding of social responsibility, reinforcing the importance of communication in creating change.

In this interdisciplinary project, seventh graders design Memory Boxes to honor senior citizens in their lives. They explore memory in science, oral histories in history, and storytelling in English, then create personalized keepsakes in the Gates Lab. A partnership with A Little Help—a nonprofit that connects volunteers with older adults—adds a meaningful service-learning element, encouraging students to build relationships and offer thoughtful support. The project culminates in a reflective showcase and fosters empathy, craftsmanship, and meaningful communication.

Eighth graders complete their Graland journey with the Capstone Project, exploring global challenges through the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. After selecting a topic, they conduct research, write a paper, and volunteer with organizations related to their project, such as Engineers Without Borders, Denver Health Newborns in Need, Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado, or We Don’t Waste. The project culminates in a formal presentation where students articulate their insights and propose solutions to an audience of parents, educators, and peers. This final milestone strengthens leadership, critical thinking, and public speaking, preparing students to advocate for causes they care about and make a lasting impact on the world.

From the Kindergarten Rodeo to the Grade 8 Capstone, each signature event at Graland represents a milestone in a larger journey of discovery, communication, leadership, and service. These experiences, woven together, ensure that students don’t just learn—they live the learning. As they graduate, Graland students carry forward curiosity, compassion, and confidence in their voice—ready to engage with the world and make a difference.