There is a magical quality about the Lower School. The magic is evident in the children, in the enthusiasm each has for learning, in the positive values exemplified, and in the warm friendships. Magic is created by a harmonious balance between traditional values and a vision for the future. Within a caring and supportive environment, the academic standards are high; and emphasis is placed on the development of solid study skills and a strong work ethic. At the same time, teaching reflects the understanding of how children learn and how they learn differently. Technology is regularly interwoven into each subject. Subjects are increasingly integrated, and cooperative learning opportunities are encouraged.
Entering the Lower School, one immediately feels something special. A beautiful tile mosaic, with student created self-portraits, welcomes all who enter. Our art-literature quilt, a K - 4 cooperative project displaying childrens' favorite books, reflects the students' beautiful work. Each classroom is a place of joyful, active learning. Students and teachers are happy to be here together, learning. The hallways are filled with students writing samples, science and social studies projects, lovely art pieces, and math activities.
While the teaching and demonstration of good characters is a part of everyday learning and activities, the Lower School embraces the InDeCoRe program (Individual Development and Community Responsibility) by having "character education" as a regularly scheduled class. InDeCoRe themes are also recognized and illustrated through classroom teachings, books, writings, role plays and other academic activities.
One of the hallmarks of the Lower School is its well-rounded program. The language arts, including phonics, reading, spelling, writing, communication and research skills, are taught, along with social studies, by the homeroom teacher, with support by the reading teacher. The recently revised math curriculum is taught in heterogeneous or homogenous groups by homeroom and math teachers. Special subject teachers, specialists in their fields, teach science, technology, music and the arts, French, and sports. Many classes meet twice weekly; sports meets two to three times weekly.
Many signature experiences highlight the activities of a Lower Schooler, and form memories that will last many years. From the class plays to the Science Expo, from the beautiful Christmas Sing and Spring Sing to the Downey-Redhead Field Event, from the "Reach Across" activities across the campuses to our literary / arts magazine, the Spectrum, students enjoy many special events. Kindergarten celebrates Thanksgiving with a special Feast, and Grade One invites moms for a formal Mothers Day Tea. Grade Two shares cultural backgrounds during an International Feast, and Grade Three concludes its study of the states with an elaborate State Feast. The Hyperstudio project on the Thirteen Colonies is an exciting, integrated project for our Fourth Graders.
Yes, this is a very special place, a magical place for our students and school families.
