Lower School
K-5TH GRADE
Welcome to The Adelson Lower School
Overview
In the Lower School, students begin the lifelong work of becoming thoughtful scholars and people of moral character. Through a rich and engaging classical education, children cultivate wonder, develop disciplined habits of learning, and build the confidence, resilience, and intellectual curiosity that prepare them for future learning.
The Lower School experience nurtures both the intellect and the heart. Through meaningful relationships, academic challenge, Jewish traditions and heritage, and a connection to the story of Israel, students develop a deeper understanding of themselves, their communities, and their responsibilities to others. By the end of Grade 5, Adelson students are prepared not only for the academic demands of the Upper School, but also to assume increasing ownership of their learning as thoughtful scholars and people of moral character.
Curriculum
The Lower School curriculum is designed to provide students with both the knowledge and skills necessary for future academic success. Through a carefully sequenced course of study, students build strong foundations in literacy, mathematics, science, history, literature, and the arts while cultivating the habits of learning that support thoughtful scholarship and intellectual growth.
Beginning in Kindergarten, students engage with literature, explicit instruction in reading and writing, mathematics that develops both fluency and reasoning, and content-rich studies that build the knowledge upon which future learning depends. As they progress through Grade 5, they are challenged to think critically, write clearly, read deeply, and engage with their studies with increasing independence and intellectual maturity. Through exposure to enduring stories, scientific discovery, meaningful discussion, and the study of history, literature, and culture, students develop a broad base of knowledge and the moral and intellectual foundations necessary for deeper understanding. By the end of Grade 5, students are well prepared for the increased independence, rigor, and academic challenge of the Upper School.
The Special Areas Program
The Lower School experience is enriched through a variety of special area classes that complement and extend students’ academic studies. Through art, music, STEM, physical education, and library, students have opportunities to create, perform, build, explore, and develop new skills beyond the homeroom classroom.
These classes allow students to engage their minds and talents in different ways while building confidence, creativity, perseverance, and craftsmanship. Together with the core curriculum, the special areas help students discover new interests, develop their talents, and experience learning in new and meaningful ways.
Hebrew and Jewish Studies
Hebrew and Jewish Studies are central to the Lower School experience and play an important role in helping students develop a strong sense of identity, belonging, and connection to the Jewish people and heritage. Through Hebrew language instruction and meaningful engagement with Jewish learning, students build the knowledge, skills, and cultural understanding that serve as a foundation for future study.
Beginning in Kindergarten, students explore Jewish holidays, values, Torah stories, and the rhythms of Jewish life while developing their Hebrew language skills. Through classroom learning, celebrations, prayer, and shared community experiences, students are immersed in the language, traditions, and practices that have shaped Jewish life across generations while developing a meaningful connection to Israel. By the end of Grade 5, students possess the knowledge and confidence to engage more deeply with Hebrew language, Jewish texts, and ideas in the Upper School years.
Lifelong Learning
Adelson students leave the Lower School with a strong foundation of knowledge, a love of learning, and confidence in who they are becoming. Grounded in moral character, connected to their heritage, and prepared for increasing independence and responsibility, they are ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges of the Upper School years.
The Adelson School admits qualified students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin, sexual orientation, or gender identity to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. The Adelson School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin, or sexual orientation in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.