Academics

Our Academic Promise

An Education Designed Around Each Student

At Gulf Stream School, learning is both challenging and personal. Children are encouraged to think deeply, communicate clearly, work independently, and stay curious, while teachers who know them well provide the support they need to grow.
 
From Pre-Primary through Grade 8, the academic program develops progressively — strengthening foundational skills, critical thinking, executive functioning, and confidence at every stage. Along the way, students connect their learning across disciplines and through the arts, athletics, technology, and hands-on experiences.

PK Programs

Gulf Stream School’s PK philosophy is rooted in teaching the whole-child. We define whole-child education as a method for stimulating a child’s academic, social, physical and emotional growth.

Our programs naturally encourage children to interact with peers who are in various stages of development, which is effective for promoting a strong sense of communal learning. At one moment a child may be acquiring beneficial skills and aptitudes by observing an older classmate, in the next moment that same child may be exemplifying those new competencies to his or her peers. Older students begin to develop and practice leadership skills, while increasing their self-confidence and empathy.

Kindergarten Programs

The Kindergarten program builds upon the foundation established in PK as academic skills are introduced more formally in a dynamic, rich and varied learning environment. Our personalized learning approach affords teachers the opportunity to meet each student’s needs.

Children are provided with opportunities to integrate play and exploration into their learning. Projected interactive imagery as well as classroom iPad use complement instruction. Kindergarten students enjoy time in the library and take part in drama lessons once a week, music, art, and Spanish twice a week, and have physical education four times a week.

Lower School Academics

(Grades 1-4)
Lower School focuses on establishing solid academic skills and fostering each child’s personal growth. A strong emphasis on reading, language arts, mathematics, and writing is enhanced by incorporating science and technology, social studies, fine and performing arts, continued study of the Spanish language, and participation in physical education.

Middle School Academics

(Grades 5-8)
In Middle School, a continued balance between academic vigor and a nurturing learning environment endows students with essential skills for higher learning, and further reinforces the love of learning instilled throughout Lower School. Core academic subjects include English, Mathematics, History, Science, and Spanish or Latin.

Enthusiasm for learning, curiosity, and mastery are the goals at all grade levels, with an emphasis on executive functioning and  problem-solving strategies. Overnight field trips are a unique and traditional feature of the Middle School experience, with students enjoying a variety of enriching experiences with their classmates and teachers, such as:

  • Marine Lab – Grade 5: A science-focused trip to the Florida Keys featuring marine exploration and water activities such as snorkeling.
  • St. Augustine – Grade 6: An immersive experience centered on the history and educational significance of America’s oldest city.
  • Pathfinder – Grades 6–8: An outdoor education experience designed to strengthen teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and collaboration.
  • Everglades – Grade 7: An Everglades field study where students explore the wetlands and discuss the interconnected habitats and importance of conservation.
  • Grand Canyon and Beyond – Grade 8: An unforgettable trip marking the culmination of the Eighth Graders' GSS journey.

View Grade-by-Grade Curriculum

Explore the curriculum by grade level and learn more about what students study throughout the academic year.

Main Campus: PK4 - Gr. 8
Gulf Stream Campus

3600 Gulf Stream Road
Gulf Stream, FL 33483
Phone: 561.276.5225   Fax: 561.276.7115

DBC: PK1, PK2 & PK3
Delray Beach Campus

2515 North Swinton Avenue
Delray Beach, FL 33444
Phone: 561.278.7735