Individual and small-group instruction in both phonics and whole language provide the optimum environment for the success of our emergent readers. Throughout the Lower School, we emphasize critical thinking along with basic skills. The Junior Great Books Program introduces our students to the finest of children's literature. It focuses on interpretive reading, writing and discussion through the Socratic method. Our writing curriculum combines both expository and creative writing skills, which enable our students to develop the ability to communicate clearly, concisely and effectively.
Fourth graders study the country and culture of Japan and the inner workings of a museum.
They learn to become business managers, curators, grant writers and other specialists of a gallery as well as incipient experts' on Japan. They create their own museum, which is open to the public at the school. Kindergartners spend six weeks in this unique collaboration between our school and the Morikami Museum, learning about Japanese family and cultural life.