An independent day school serving grades K-12 | St. Paul, MN

Curriculum & Community

Young children have a natural love of learning and exploration. The Lower School curriculum builds on those natural inclinations by introducing children to the fundamentals of intellectual inquiry within a safe, nurturing community characterized by close attention to each student. As a result, Lower School students from Kindergarten through Grade 5 develop exceptional academic skills in addition to the social/emotional strengths that will serve them as they move up to the Middle School: excellent communication and public speaking skills; a strong work ethic and a sense of responsibility to the community; and a sense of pride in themselves and their school.  Students also develop a deep affection and respect for their teachers and peers, which is evident in the sense of community and warmth that permeates the entire Lower School.

The Lower School experience is built on six foundational elements: a low student-teacher ratio; the team-teaching model, multiage first and second grade as well as third and fourth grade classrooms; the use of differentiation; the rotating six-day schedule; and the TOOLBOX social/emotional program. Twice-weekly all-school assemblies and "Mini" elective courses are also important elements of the Lower School community.

Behind the Scenes:
Lower School - Fostering a Love of Learning

Life in the Lower School

The Lower School's curriculum and community was the focus of the summer 2017 issue of  SPA Magazine.