Lower Division

Students in the Lower Division at Garden School experience the academic focus that is characteristic of our program. Students learn all of their subjects individually, in small groups, and as a class. To meet the needs of all of our learners, we provide a variety of carefully considered activities—some structured, some creative and spontaneous, and all thought-provoking and developmentally appropriate.

The elementary years are marked by improved reading, writing and analytical skills, as well as a solid base of knowledge. These skills sharpen as students become more independent under the guidance of teachers who understand the strengths and uniqueness of their students. Garden School fosters an appreciation for individual talents and the cultures of all people through social studies, language study, fine art, music, and physical education. Garden School also offers after-school extra-help sessions and enrichment studies, all of which further stimulate a love of learning in our students.

Lower Division Highlights

• Grades 1–3: one class per grade with a core teacher assisted by a reading specialist.
• Grades 4–6: departmentalized with subject teachers; grades are taught in two to three smaller groups.
• Art and music classes twice a week.
• Physical education a minimum of three times a week.
• Mandarin Chinese for grades 1—3
• French for grades 4—6
• After-school program available until 6 p.m. Enrichment classes (Foundations) offered during this time.
• Problem solving
• Critical thinking
• Enriched curriculum
• Hands-on math and science activities
• Annual stage productions, recitals, and talent shows
• Library skills/author studies
• Book reports and oral presentations
• Debate and oratory experience
• Computers
• Research projects and writing activities
• Arts- and science-related field trips (day and overnight).
• Lower-division classes average 16 students.