Exploratories K-4

Griswold Elementary School Exploratory classes allow students to explore a variety of subjects and introduce students to the arts, their health, and technology. Exploratories are an important part of the development of healthy minds and bodies. These courses can spark passions, lifelong hobbies, and incorporate unforgettable projects throughout a student's time at GES. 

GES's Exploratory courses include:

• Art
• Health Education
• Music
• Physical Education (Gym)
• Technology Education

Students also participate in weekly book exchanges at the school library media center.

Learn more about each of these exploratories below!

Health Education

Health Education at GES promotes students' self-awareness; establishing the ability to focus on yourself and how your actions, thoughts or emotions contribute to mental health and wellness. Students strive to improve healthy outcomes by learning the necessary knowledge and skills for life-long healthy choices. Emphasis is also placed upon the importance of general health, preventive measures, safety, nutrition, and decision-making skills.  All Griswold Elementary School students will take Health Education in grades K-4.

Mrs. Otten-Paggioli ("Mrs. O-P") has been teaching in the Griswold Schools for nearly three decades. GMS Physical Education for 10 years, GHS Health Education for two years, and GES Health / PE for over 15 years. Mrs. O-P continues to enjoy working with her students and watching them grow throughout their elementary years.

Music

In the GES Music classroom, we strive to nurture a lifelong love for music while providing students with a solid foundation in musical skills and knowledge. Through an inclusive and engaging curriculum, we aim to inspire creativity, teamwork, and a deep appreciation for the artistry and cultural significance of music.

Students explore the following in music classes:

• Singing: students explore their vocal abilities through a diverse range of songs, fostering a love for melody and harmony. Emphasis is placed on pitch, tone, and expression, allowing students to develop their individual voices.
• Percussion: the GES music classroom is equipped with a diverse array of percussion instruments. From hand drums to tambourines, students learn to play rhythms, develop a strong sense of timing, coordination and teamwork, and learn the cultural and historical significance of drumming in different musical traditions. 
• Ukulele: students explore basic chords to more complex melodies, while gaining an understanding of string instruments. Ukulele is a versatile and accessible instrument that spans many musical genres. 
• Recorder: students learn to read sheet music and master fingerings. The recorder bridges the gap between basic and more advanced wind instruments, laying a solid foundation for future musical pursuits.
• Boom Whackers: these tuned percussion tubes offer a playful way for students to understand pitch and rhythm, fostering creativity and cooperation.
• Movement: 
• Music History: students are exposed to different musical genres, composers, and cultural influences through the years and around the world to become well-rounded musicians. 
• Music Games: games involve rhythm, melody, and music theory to make students' learning experience enjoyable and interactive. The games reinforce musical concepts, while promoting a positive attitude toward music education and making music together. 

Students in grades K-4 will participate in concerts in the GES Cafetorium. Grades 3-4 will have winter and spring concerts, and K-2 will participate in the spring concert only. 

2025-2026 GES Music Concert Schedule

Ms. Harris, a 2018 GHS alumna, will start her first year teaching at GES in the fall of 2025!

Griswold is proud of its award-winning music program, which begins in the GES music classroom. Elementary students go on to be actively engaged in more advanced music programs at Griswold Middle School and High School, including playing an instrument in band or orchestra, singing in vocal ensembles, performing in music theater, and beyond. 

Physical Education

In the GES physical Education class, students will explore many different ways to move. During classes, student instruction will help to develop motor skills, knowledge, and lifelong learning for physical activity and fitness.

Students will understand safety and cooperation while working with others.
Physical Education is a planned sequence of skills. Students will learn how to enjoy movement in day-to-day activities, and the importance of exercise.

Mr. Lovell began teaching at GES in 2024. 

Technology Education 

In GES technology education, students cover the use and care of equipment the grade level is using.  Students progress with keyboarding skills from basic letter/number locations to correct finger placement through the use of a variety of websites (Keyboard Zoo, Keyboard Challenge, Dancemat & Typing Club). They explore Google (Classroom, Docs, Slides, and Sheets) and Microsoft (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) programs which allow them to communicate with others. Students also cover age-appropriate Internet Safety topics. A major component in the elementary technology curriculum is coding, in which they apply problem solving and persevering skills.

Mrs. Sanborn began at Griswold Elementary School in 1988 teaching a writing program. She then taught first grade for one year, followed by many years in second grade. She transitioned to the technology position in 2013 where she has enjoyed sharing her passion for technology.