Social Studies is the respectful study of human activity and understanding on all levels. As Kirpal Singh, the founder of the Sant Bani School, said: Each one of us is unique in his own way. There is a divine purpose behind the life of everyone who comes into this world. No one has been created for nothing. We have something to learn from everyone.

This is the reason we study what human beings have done, said, thought, and believed.

By the time a student graduates, he or she should have:

• good research skills for acquiring and evaluating information,
• a good knowledge of ancient, world, New Hampshire and United States history,
• an understanding of United States and world geography,
• understanding of the religious traditions of the world and that which unites them,
• familiarity with important themes, figures, and events in human history, and
• the ability to discuss and debate issues in a mutually respectful manner.

Curriculum Notes

In Kindergarten through 2nd Grade, Social Studies are integrated with the curriculum on themes such as “Neighbors” or “Pioneers.”

Project based instruction is key to they way our students learn about the world and their place in it. As the students progress from the elementary grades through High School, they try to move from “small” to “large” – from home and local community to state and nation and world. A social studies class is required for every year except 11th grade. Children study “where we are” and “where we came from” using maps and family history in 3rd grade; New Hampshire History in 4th grade, Geography in 6th grade, US History in 5th and 10th grades, and World History in 7th-9th grades. Seniors take a required course in World Religions; electives are also available for Juniors and Seniors.

High school electives include (some offered in alternate years): Gender Studies, Psychology, 20th Century History 20th Century History (‘20s/‘30s/‘40s, ‘50s/‘60s/’70s, and 00s-1920/80s-2000), Russian Studies, Economics of Adult Living, and Visual Media.

Department Heads: Beth Robinson (K-6) and Brenda Diederich (7-12)