Lower School
Building Curiosity, Confidence, and Character
At St. Mary’s Lower School, we nurture a love for learning in a supportive, all-girls environment, inspiring each student to explore, question, and grow.
In grades first through fifth, rigorous academics are combined with character education to foster capable, confident, and compassionate learners. With an emphasis on creative problem-solving, technology integration, and collaborative learning, each day provides opportunities for girls to build essential skills, develop resilience, and embrace their unique potential.
Our hands-on curriculum, enriched by weekly chapel services and the Bridge to Caring character program, ensures a holistic education that prepares girls for a lifetime of curiosity and engagement.
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Core Curriculum and Special Subjects
In our dynamic Lower School classrooms, experienced teachers collaborate with specialists to bring subjects to life. Each girl engages deeply with core subjects—math, language arts, science, and social studies—while exploring her interests through a range of special subjects designed to enhance her learning and personal growth.
Art
Our art classes encourage girls to explore their creativity, self-expression, and social-emotional growth. Art lessons are designed to connect with other subjects, offering a multidisciplinary approach that promotes emotional awareness and holistic learning.
Creative Movement
Our ballet and creative movement classes allow girls to express themselves through dance, blending ballet with storytelling and improvisation. These sessions foster confidence, grace, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
Merry Makers
Our STEM curriculum sparks creativity, collaboration, and innovation. In the Makerspace, girls bring ideas to life through coding, robotics, engineering, and design all while fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and hands-on STEM skills.
Spanish
Through Total Physical Response (TPR) techniques, our Spanish program immerses students in language learning by incorporating kinesthetic, auditory, and visual approaches to enhance vocabulary and grammar skills.
Library
The library serves as a hub for inquiry and exploration, where students cultivate research skills, a love for reading, and lifelong learning habits. Information literacy is seamlessly integrated with classroom learning, inspiring curiosity across disciplines, and a lifelong love of reading.
Religion
Rooted in Episcopal tradition, our Religion classes teach respect, gratitude, and kindness. Weekly chapel services, along with our Bridge to Caring character program, deepen students’ understanding of values such as responsibility and cooperation.
Music
Our music program blends instrument play and singing, nurturing both individual expression and ensemble skills. Choral experiences, including the Christmas Pageant, Grandparents Day, and Class Day programs, build confidence and teamwork.
Robotics
Our robotics program empowers students to code, design, and compete using VEX IQ robots. Through this hands-on experience, girls develop critical thinking skills, leadership abilities, and a foundation in STEM.
Physical Education
Our P.E. program emphasizes physical development, coordination, and teamwork. Girls participate in a variety of activities, from relay races to team sports, while building essential fitness and sportsmanship skills.
Athletics
Starting in first grade, students can join St. Mary’s swim team, while third graders have the opportunity to explore new activities such as lacrosse and cross-country. By fifth grade, girls can also try out for Middle School teams in golf, soccer, basketball, and volleyball, further expanding their athletic experiences and teamwork skills. Read more about our athletic offerings.
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