Curriculum

At Gold Rush, students in grades K–5 engage in rich reading and writing experiences through the Benchmark Readers' and Writers' Workshop programs. These state-approved curricula are aligned with academic standards and introduce students to a wide range of literary genres.

Both programs follow the Workshop Model, which allows teachers to provide individualized instruction tailored to each student’s needs. Each literacy workshop is made up of three parts:

• Mini Lesson – The teacher introduces and models a specific skill or strategy using a short text.
• Independent Practice – Students apply the skill or strategy on their own or with partners. During this time, teachers meet with individuals or small groups for personalized instruction and support based on assessment data.
• Share – The class comes back together to reflect on the day’s learning. Students are encouraged to share their work and celebrate their progress.

​​​​​​​This approach ensures that all students receive targeted support while developing their reading and writing skills in a meaningful way.

In grades K–3, students also receive explicit phonics instruction using the UFLI Foundations Toolbox.  UFLI  is a research-based, structured curriculum through the University of Florida Literacy Institute and it is aligned to the science of reading. It provides a strong foundation in phonics using engaging, multisensory techniques. This structured approach helps our youngest learners build the skills they need to become confident and successful readers.​​​​​​​

At Gold Rush Elementary, we believe math instruction should go beyond memorization. Our goal is to help students become critical thinkers and skilled problem-solvers. We teach students how to reason through complex problems and solve them accurately and efficiently using a variety of strategies.

Across grades K–5, teachers use the enVision Mathematics curriculum, which supports this approach by encouraging students to explore multiple methods for solving problems and to clearly explain their thinking.

To meet the needs of all learners, we provide targeted math support and enrichment. Our gifted and talented coordinator, Response to Intervention (RtI) instructor, and classroom teachers work together to analyze student data and offer additional instruction when needed. For students who demonstrate advanced understanding, Gold Rush offers an accelerated math track beginning in kindergarten.

We are also committed to supporting students who need extra help through RtI services and special education, ensuring that every child receives instruction tailored to their individual needs.

At Gold Rush Elementary, science comes to life through inquiry-based learning. Students in grades K–5 explore physical, life, and earth sciences by asking questions, conducting hands-on investigations, and discovering answers about the world around them.

We use the STEMscopes curriculum, which follows the research-based 5E Instructional Model: Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, and Evaluate. This approach places students at the center of learning, encouraging curiosity and critical thinking every step of the way.

By fostering a classroom environment where students’ questions guide their learning, we empower them to think like scientists—observing, experimenting, and drawing conclusions based on evidence.

In social studies, students at Gold Rush Elementary explore how history has shaped the world we live in today. They learn important lessons from the past while also discovering what it means to be active, responsible citizens in their communities.

Social studies instruction is thoughtfully integrated across content areas, including reading and writing, to help students make meaningful connections and deepen their understanding of key concepts at every grade level.

Through engaging discussions, stories, and projects, students gain a greater appreciation for the world around them and their role in it.