Grades K-2

The Language Arts program for grades K-2  builds strong foundations in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Designed to support a variety of learning styles, the program nurtures confident, capable readers, writers and thinkers.

Instruction includes explicit phonics that develop into word study, meaningful and developmentally appropriate reading and writing experiences, and regular opportunities for students to strengthen their listening and speaking skills.

In grades K–2, the enVision Math program builds on early foundations, guiding students from concrete to pictorial to abstract thinking.

Through problem-based learning, visual models and interactive tools, students develop conceptual understanding, procedural fluency and flexible thinking, while fostering curiosity and a love for mathematics.

The lower school science program is designed to inspire curiosity, build scientific understanding and help students see the relevance of science in their everyday lives. Grounded in the Next Generation Science Standards, the curriculum weaves together physical, life, earth and space sciences through experiments, field experiences, observations, design challenges and discussion.

Students learn to question, explore, explain and apply scientific concepts. Science process skills such as observing, inferring, predicting, analyzing data and conducting investigations are embedded in every unit, empowering students to think and work like young scientists.

In lower school social studies, students grow from understanding themselves and their families to exploring communities and history. Kindergarteners learn about self, family and community basics, including maps and rules.

First graders examine how people work together and how the environment affects daily life. Second graders focus on citizenship, early American history and the impact of geography on Native American cultures.

Weekly lower school Innovation Lab classes are designed to ignite students’ creative thinking and problem-solving skills through hands-on experiences with a variety of devices and programs, such as coding and robotics.

Students explore design concepts, build projects and tackle challenges that encourage innovation, all while learning to use technology responsibly and in balance. As students progress through the grades, technology becomes integrated into increasingly sophisticated classroom projects and interdisciplinary activities.

Kindergarten and first grade students use iPads for interactive activities that spark curiosity and creativity, while second graders follow a structured keyboarding curriculum on school-issued Chromebooks to develop digital fluency alongside design and problem-solving skills.

Weekly Spanish classes for students in grades K-2 provide opportunities to hear and speak the Spanish language in an immersive environment.

By dedicating time and effort to teaching the Spanish language and culture, we enable our students to build empathy and an understanding of diverse cultures and languages, helping them see themselves as global citizens.

Our Physical Education program emphasizes gross motor development, balance, spatial awareness, coordination, rhythm activities, physical fitness and skill building.

Teachers direct the program to enhance knowledge, skills and enjoyment through modified sports and games. Students are encouraged to appreciate and value staying active.

Each semester, as part of the PE curriculum, students in grades K-5 participate in an eight-week swimming season in our on-campus pool to develop swimming skills and water confidence.

The lower school music program builds a strong foundation in musical understanding, with a particular emphasis on instrumental performance and music literacy. Students learn to read, interpret and notate music, empowering them to become confident, independent musicians.

Throughout the year, students engage in singing, playing classroom instruments, moving to music and creating original musical ideas, all of which help develop technical skills and artistic expression.

The lower school art curriculum, from grades K-5, is designed to be fun and engaging, while providing a strong foundation for artistic growth. Students are encouraged to express themselves using a variety of materials and techniques, and to develop creativity through two- and three-dimensional media.

The activities foster problem-solving, independent thinking and self-confidence. Students learn about famous artists, historical time periods and diverse art styles, gaining an appreciation for global cultures. Student artwork is showcased throughout the year and featured in the annual art show.
 

The primary goal of the library program is to create a welcoming and accessible space for students. The program promotes recreational reading, teaches essential library skills and supports classroom instruction.

Students learn research techniques using the computerized catalog and the internet, familiarizing themselves with library resources. The program extends the classroom curriculum, exposing students to diverse perspectives and encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

The Academic Learning Lab (A.L.L.) is an inclusive space designed to assist with academic challenges and provide  study support/strategies focusing on student strengths. Students may be referred by teachers or parents.

After discussion and evaluation, specific strategies are recommended and supported. Resources and ongoing support for the students, parents and teachers are available, including academic coaching and community references.

Students in grades K-2 attend Chapel weekly, where lower school students hear lessons and songs based on biblical teachings. We encourage respect for the beliefs of others and promote values that unite people rather than divide.

Students in grades K-2  build on their understanding of emotions as they engage in character education lessons that foster enthusiastic learners, critical thinkers and responsible leaders.

With a full-time school counselor on campus, students have daily access to social-emotional support through individual check-ins, small and whole-group instruction and guided problem​-solving, promoting confidence, resilience and healthy relationships.