FAQs

List of 14 frequently asked questions.

• When does the day start and end?

  Our school day begins at 8:15 a.m. Preschool and prekindergarten hours are either 8:15 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. or 8:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Kindergarten hours are from 8:15 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. Lower School (grades one through four) hours are from 8:15 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. After-school programs end by 6:00 p.m.

• What if my child is early or late?

  We provide supervision beginning at 7:45 a.m. Students arriving after 8:15 a.m. must sign in at the security desk.

• Is there security in the Lower School all day?

  We have two full-time security officers on staff during the academic day and a security officer on duty until the Lower School building closes at 6:00 p.m. Guests must sign in with Security and with the Lower School Office.

• What is served for lunch and when is lunch served?

  Preschool and prekindergarten students bring their own lunch and eat in their classrooms between 11:30 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.

  
  Lunch is served at 11:00 a.m. for our students in kindergarten through fourth grade in the Founders Hall Dining Room. Lower School faculty sit with the children during lunch, encouraging conversation and healthy eating habits. Our menu typically includes produce from our own garden, and our chef is mindful in providing fresh, healthy choices for students.

• Do children have the opportunity to rest during the school day?

  Our preschool and prekindergarten students have a rest period in the afternoon. Some children nap while others take advantage of the quiet time to rest and relax. This important break in the day gives young children the opportunity to re-charge after a busy and stimulating morning, and it helps them to prepare for the afternoon.

• Where do I drop off my child in the morning?

  Parents are encouraged to drop their children off in the car line in the Lower School parking lot, where teachers and administrators will welcome your child as they enter school for the day.

• Is bus transportation available?

  Many towns provide a bus service for our kindergarten-twelfth grade students. Our transportation coordinator (ext. 480) can answer any questions regarding bus service.

• Does my child receive a snack during the day?

  GSB provides a healthy snack for all Lower School students.

• How do I communicate with my child's teacher?

  You may reach your child's teacher via email, telephone or schedule an in-person meeting. Our faculty see themselves as partners in your child’s development and are happy to talk with you.

• What is the average class size?

  The average Lower School class size is 14 students.

• Is there a dress code?

  The Lower School has a standardized dress code for kindergarten through fourth grade. This includes polo shirts, khaki or navy pants, and dresses. Belts are encouraged for students in grades one through four. More information in printed in the GSB Parent/Student Handbook.

• What kinds of opportunities are available for outdoor play, physical education and recess?

  Preschool, prekindergarten and kindergarten students participate in physical education classes and recess every day. Children in first through fouth grade take part in physical education classes four times each week and have daily recess. Students spend as much time as possible outside in the fresh air.

• What if I sign my child up for three days for preschool and want to add more days?

  Sometimes the needs of students and their families change. Our offerings for our preschool program are flexible, and arrangements may be made with the Lower School Director at any time.

• What are the special subjects offered in the lower school years?

  Science, music, world language, art, technology, library science, and physical education, comprise our Related Arts course offerings. Our Related Arts teachers incorporate a thematic cross-curricular study of a geographical region each year. The entire Lower School is involved, and the study culminates in the spring with an interactive museum experience created by students and teachers.