Love Learning From The Start

At the Lower School, our goal is to build a foundation for lifelong curiosity and confident learning. Our teachers provide individual attention and are responsive to the academic and developmental needs of each student. During these foundational years, the Lower School program encourages collective discovery, achievement, and challenge while fostering respect for community and individuality.

Lower School by the Numbers:

  • Our community includes approximately 270 students 
  • Full-time classroom teachers and assistants: 20 
  • Support and specialized instruction personnel: 15 
  • Kindergarten through second grade: 14 to 15 students per class 
  • Third through fifth grade: 22 to 23 students per class

Welcome to the Lower School

Endless joy and laughter, a sense of belonging, community building, and academic excellence coupled with a growth mindset are ever present in the classrooms, hallways, and on the fields at Poly's Lower School. Academically, in the early years of Kindergarten to Grade 5, students engage in a curriculum that is developmentally appropriate while challenging, where inquiry and curiosity are fostered. In addition to literacy, social studies, and mathematics, Lower School students experience a well-rounded education and learn from the best in visual arts, music, Spanish, science, physical education, and much more. Our youngest Panthers find joy in all learning under the umbrella of transformative teaching. Experiential learning is thoughtfully designed to encourage our students to engage in problem-solving and critical thinking. By doing so, we aim to cultivate a lifelong love of learning.

The building blocks of social-emotional learning are a part of the Lower School experience. PolyHonor provides a north star for students to treat one another with kindness and respect while being inclusive. Lower School students connect with other grade levels all throughout the campus during community meetings, Panther Pods, and all school events. At Poly, modeling kindness is at the heart of everything we do. We understand that social-emotional development is just as important as building academic skills. Our educators are dedicated to creating a sense of belonging for every student and family, ensuring everyone feels seen and valued.

At Poly, we are committed to creating a nurturing and dynamic learning environment for your child. Our approach is student-centered as we meet each child where they are in support of their individual growth. We strive to make learning joyful and engaging and believe in a community where a strong partnership with families is essential. Your child will be surrounded by peers and mentors who inspire and support them every step of the way. 

During their time in the Lower School, our students are empowered, prepared, inspired, and excited to continue their educational journey at Poly.

Theresa Tran
Lower School Director