Lower School is a nurturing and active place, with approximately 65 children from first through fifth grades. We construct our 1st/2nd grade and 4th/5th grade classes in mixed-aged groups. This allows students to spend two years with the same teacher, giving them the benefit of the continuity of this relationship. Our teachers develop a warm and sharing bond with their students, and we encourage that closeness by maintaining a low student-teacher ratio. Each basegroup has about 16 pupils, with one head teacher.

Teachers help children find ways to express their ideas and gain confidence in discussions; children are encouraged to ask questions and express their thoughts.

Students spend significant time with their basegroup teachers, and are offered a variety of special area classes including physical education, art, music, and Spanish.

Lower School students work with older and younger peers: older students "tutor" younger students, they read together, work on history or science projects together; several may work on a school-wide project like our greening initiative. Such activities add a rich dimension to our students' lives. They help them gain confidence in their skills, provide opportunities for leadership, and demonstrate a capacity to contribute to the broader community.

Children learn the fundamental academic skills they will use throughout their lives; we emphasize proficient reading, clear and effective writing, and a problem solving approach to mathematics. Our students develop independent study skills and a genuine love of learning.