Lower School Curriculum

Grades K-3

Venture into Potomac’s Lower School hallways and you will witness joyful learning.

We frequently teach in small groups, a hallmark of our school. Natural light infuses all of our Lower School classrooms, as each opens directly to the outdoors. See learning at its best --whether children are gathering informally to solve mathematical challenges or searching for treasures left in our stream bed following a storm. 

The Lower School comprises three classes each of Kindergarten through 3rd grade and meets daily from 8:10-3:15. Our classroom faculty teaches language arts, mathematics, and social studies using integrated instructional models.  Teachers draw on the support of resource teachers as they differentiate the curriculum to meet the diverse needs and learning styles of our students.

We place great value on providing enriching and varied experiences for our children.  They leave their classrooms two or three times a day to explore science, art, music, library, and physical education. Computers are an integral part of the curriculum.  Our children benefit from interactions with older students through many multi-age activities. 

Lower School parents enjoy a strong partnership with the school, through frequent communication and participation in school activities. A weekly assembly showcases our students’ talents in music, poetry, and theater. Lower School children and parents demonstrate their commitment to our mission of "generosity of spirit" as they actively engage in the school-wide community service program.

Lower School classes take advantage of the rich learning environment that is Potomac’s 90-acre campus. Our children hike our trails, use their imaginations in our creative play spaces, and develop a deep appreciation for their responsibilities to our beautiful campus and their stewardship of the land. All that we value at Potomac has its roots in Lower School.