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Lower School

LOWER SCHOOL (3's-4th)

The early years are a time of exciting self discovery, increased social awareness, and establishing the practice of citizenship within a community. Calhoun's Lower School promotes a love of learning, active engagement, and a joyful spirit in a progressive learning environment where students know that anything is possible.

Starting with our youngest students, we lay a strong foundation in the inquiry process — teaching children how to frame questions and seek answers, so they’re better equipped for robust academic exploration.

Within our close-knit community, teachers get to know students not just as learners but as human beings. This personalized approach fosters a supportive environment where children feel confident to take intellectual risks, try new things, and be their authentic selves.

Children at Calhoun are actively immersed in their learning, and genuinely excited to come to school. Their experience sets the stage for future growth, and above all, shapes independent, self-aware, and compassionate young learners and citizens.

April Thompson, Calhoun's Lower School Director.

April Thompson, Ph.D.
Lower School Director

The Calhoun Lower School Journey

Our program structure supports each child's individual path, equipping students with academic skills alongside resilience and a strong sense of self and community.

Our preschool program introduces children to a Montessori environment and helps them grow into confident members of the classroom.

In Calhoun’s Montessori Kindergarten program, children explore, discover and grow in a vibrant, hands-on learning environment.

In 1st-3rd grades, students are encouraged to pursue topics that excite them, while also advancing in core subjects. 

The fourth-grade program prepares children with the skills and habits that will serve them in Middle School and beyond.

Lower School Curriculum

Lower Schools students are guided by our exceptional faculty toward an understanding of key concepts, so that students are prepared for more abstract thinking.

Explore our curriculum

"This is a place where we believe in the power of student voice and its role in shaping an inclusive, empowered educational experience."

April Thompson, Lower School Director

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