Philosophy

Our Lower School teachers bring together a profound respect for children, a deep understanding of child development and a thorough grounding in best practices to fill each student’s day with rich and rewarding learning experiences. Whether in the classroom, Tinker Space or outdoors on our beautiful 208-acre campus, learning is joyful, inquiry-driven, frequently collaborative and always inspiring. Our Lower Schoolers love to come to school each day; surrounded by a warm and supportive community, they gain the confidence and sense of belonging that are essential preludes to learning and growth.

Because each child’s learning journey is distinct, our curriculum provides students considerable opportunities to work one-on-one with teachers, reading specialists and learning specialists. A combination of individual, small-group and whole-class instruction allows our faculty to tailor each student’s learning and ensure that students remain engaged and appropriately challenged throughout their Lower School years. Because our Lower School faculty collaborate among grade levels and subject areas, students transition easily and with confidence from one grade to the next. In addition to working
with one another, our teachers partner with parents to achieve a fuller understanding of each student and ways to better guide and support his/her development, learning and overall wellbeing.

The Lower School also offers a range of after-school programs, the which are led by experts in various fields. Whether children are rehearsing a musical, learning to cook, building a LEGO robot or planting in the garden—they have the chance to create, collaborate, move around and simply have fun while learning something new.