Carden Method

Carden Arbor View School embraces the curriculum developed by Miss Mae Carden (1894-1977) during the mid-twentieth century.


The Carden® Curriculum is designed to address the development of the whole child, combining high academic standards with high expectations in personal and character development, and has been adopted by other countries as an effective method for teaching English language and grammar.

Literature, writing, spelling, grammar, mathematics, science, social studies, poetry, French, Spanish, and handwriting make up the core academic program in first through eighth grade. In addition to this strong academic program, Carden Arbor View School provides instruction in music, art, public speaking, computer science, physical education, and motor development. High school level Algebra, Geometry, French, and Spanish instruction is offered in our Middle School program. 

Depending upon the grade level and subject, students spend between 25% and 75% of their instructional time in small groups.

In addition to the academic curriculum, our students participate daily in a school prayer, a thoughtful meditation on appropriate attitudes and behavior (copies of both are available by request), a recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance, and a patriotic song. At every grade level these activities are integrated with carefully chosen curricular materials to provide the building blocks for instilling in our students the value of harmonious and purposeful living and learning.

We are confident that Carden Arbor View School offers a distinctive experience. We discourage pressure and rivalry and foster individual growth and independence. We encourage parent participation in school life and treasure the relationships we build with each family. If this is the educational experience and foundation you would like your child to have, we invite you to visit us at Carden Arbor View School.

Dignity implies not only self-respect but respect for every other person as well. Mae Carden