Lower School
Throughout each day in our Lower School, we emphasize positive interactions with teachers and peers, as our students learn to embrace multiple perspectives, develop empathy, and grow as members of our larger community.
The Lower School curriculum is focused on developing proficiency in reading, math, writing, and communication skills. Students are challenged – yet supported. Individualized instruction and a vibrant classroom experience come together to cultivate creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Our teachers are dedicated to instilling a growth mindset, working with each student to set personal goals and monitor progress. Instruction is tailored to each individual's strengths and weaknesses.
Foundational Thinking
We're on a mission to make the process of thinking visible. The Project Zero framework, pioneered at Harvard University, goes beyond memorization to foster a deeper understanding in our students. By encouraging each child to be curious, ask questions, and take intellectual risks, we're preparing them for a future where they can confidently take on any challenge.
STEAM Curriculum
By exposing our Lower School students to dedicated STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts & Mathematics) classes, we're nurturing their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills from a young age. Coding and robotics classes begin early here – in the first grade.
A Focus on the Whole Child
We're dedicated to nurturing the whole child, with a curriculum that includes visual arts classes multiple times per week and recognizes that daily recess and exercise are essential to a well-rounded education. We know that the best learning happens when students are engaged both inside and out of the classroom.
Additional Lower School Program Highlights
- Spanish and Mandarin language instruction begins in Lower School
- Personal in-school music and/or voice lessons are available during the school day
- Math, reading, science, and social studies are all taught in each grade
- Each school day begins with a community meeting in Preschool through fifth grade, instilling a sense of belonging
