Our K-5 elementary did that for grades 3-5 English and Math. Social Studies and Science with the homeroom teacher.

Like everything else, it depends on the administration, the teachers, and the overall fit for each kid. There's definitely a trend toward departmentalization earlier now than there used to be, but it works well for many kids. It lets the teachers play on their strengths and focus on one or two areas, which improves instructional practice. The downside is that they have a lot more students and not all teachers do a great job navigating the relationships with such a big group.

It’s much better for the teachers and the kids. Elementary school has too many preps which make its hard to focus on one curriculum. Departmentalizing allows teachers to focus on one class subject.

Op here - school is grades 3-5 and sounds like all will be departmentalized.

I'm a 3rd grade teacher in DCPS - we do it and the kids are fine

From which grade? Usually its for 4th and 5th only. At least in my experience at our school.

FYI, here is a discussion of departmentalization a from earlier this year:

https://www.dcurbanmom.com/jforum/posts/list/1122837.page

I just got an email that my kids’ school is going to “departmentalized” this year. Does anyone have experience with how this works in practice in MCPS? I can see how it could be great for my bright 5th grader, but worry how it could make it even harder for my 3rd grader with special needs.