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Home  Academics and School Life Lower School
Academic Curriculum
The Lower School curriculum supports the needs of bright and ambitious students. In each area, the basic classroom work is generally above the traditional "grade level" with acceleration and/or challenge provided to individual students as needed. The School's philosophy is to assist each child in pursuing knowledge at his/her highest individual level. If you have further questions about the specific course of study, please click on the folllowing link.
 LS Curriculum Guide. 
Reading
 Lower School reading is a unique and carefully designed program designed by the School's Founding Headmistress, Dr. LeOre Cobbley, and expanded and more fully developed by master teachers over many years. Within this structure, students successfully read far above grade level. Daily oral reading in all grades emphasizes phonics, vocabulary development, fluency, comprehension, and critical thinking. Students are encouraged to read extensively beyond their basic and supplementary reading texts.
English
A comprehensive, structured English program focuses on developing competencies in grammar, spelling, vocabulary, writing, oral expression, auditory skill, research methods, and literary appreciation. Frequent writing assignments, beginning in kindergarten, improve creativity as well as vocabulary and writing skills. Formal expository writing commences at the first grade level.
Mathematics
Lower School students are taught in a multi-dimensional, coordinated program which develops an understanding of mathematical concepts and fluency in basic computational skills that includes memorizing basic facts. Children solve problems and communicate precisely using signs, symbols, models, graphs, and correct mathematical terms.
Social Studies
History, geography, government, and elementary concepts in economics are included in this subject area. Understanding historical events and issues depend on connecting the past with the present. The study of land features, regions, types of governments and their purposes help build a comprehension of cultural diversity and are taught in increasing intensity from K-5. Of special interest is the fourth grade emphasis on Nevada history and Greek mythology.
Spanish
Spanish is taught three times weekly in kindergarten and first grade through conversation, games, songs, and vocabulary exercises. Second and third grade students work four times a week with grammatical concepts, reading, and writing. Daily Spanish classes at the fourth and fifth grade levels find students reading, writing, and conversing with increasing fluency and confidence. The geography of Spanish-speaking countries and knowledge of well-known artists and public figures are also introduced.
Science
 Explorations in life, physical, and earth science provide an introduction to the scientific method and excite children about our fascinating world. This is not a "textbook and test" class, but it uses activities and hands-on lab experiences to explore basic concepts and information while encouraging students to learn more by performing independent work.
Computers
Each classroom is equipped with several computers for student use. Additionally, computer classes allow children to work independently in a hands-on laboratory setting with instruction in word processing, MS PowerPoint, and other skills that are useful in many learning situations.
Library
All students attend instructional library class once a week and can access the Library throughout the week. Library skills are formally taught beginning in first grade with fiction/nonfiction locations and continuing through fifth grade with research skills, reference materials, storytelling, and folktales. Children enjoy visits from guest authors and illustrators.
Music
The School's nationally recognized music program is based on the Orff-Schulwerk approach integrating movement, speech, song, instrumental play, and creative dramatics. Creativity is encouraged and developed through improvisation. Soprano recorder is introduced in fourth grade and continues through fifth grade. A special children's choir is another opportunity for fourth and fifth graders.
Art
Art is integrated into the K-5 classroom activities and projects and is further developed in more formal instruction with line, shape, color, texture, value, form, and space. Use of these design elements, varied media, and dimensional art provides practice with an increasing emphasis on creative and self-directed art throughout Lower School. Visits by guest artists and field trips to professional studios round out the curriculum.
Physical Education
The P.E. program provides a sequential development of physical, mental, and emotional fitness through basic and creative movement and games. The program includes skill development, sportsmanship, and aspects of mental, social, and physical health. Third through fifth grades are tested for physical fitness through AAHPERD (American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance).
Citizenship
Children at all grade levels are expected to be good citizens in the School community and the community at large. They are taught to show respect for themselves and others, to be kind and considerate, and demonstrate dedication to high academic and moral standards. Responsibility to self and others includes independent thinking, service to others, and a commitment to excellence. Each class presents a citizenship program that includes speaking, dance, music, and song with a tie to a character-building trait. At the conclusion of each program "Good Citizens" who are achieving and maintaining high standards of behavior are recognized.
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