LOWER SCHOOL

Elementary Program

Lower School

Welcome

Early Childhood

Elementary Program

Learning and Outcomes

Bridgehampton Campus

After School

Faculty

At the heart of Ross Lower School’s educational philosophy is the firm belief that all students can become successful learners.

KINDERGARTEN–GRADE 5

We recognize that each child is splendidly unique and believe school ought to be flexible and adaptive, rather than standardized or one-size-fits-all, in order to meet the needs of all our children.

To this end, Ross School fully embraces Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences, which holds that intelligence can be measured in a variety of ways. Some kids delight in logical and mathematical discussions; others are visual learners; still others thrive by listening to music and dancing. The Ross curriculum offers learning experiences that accommodate all different types of learners, which means our students feel a great sense of inclusion and value.

8:00AM MINDFULNESS MEDITATION

Students begin each morning with a five minute mindfulness meditation practice.

8:05AM CENTERS

Students engage in educational activities to encourage skills development.

8:25AM MORNING MEETING

Teachers lead students in a daily meeting to discuss their goals for the day.

8:45AM READING

In a workshop format, students focus on shared, guided, and independent reading techniques.

10:15AM MANDARIN

Students study Mandarin as a primary language five days a week.

9:30AM SPECIALS

Each week, students rotate through a variety of classes with expert teachers in such areas as science, music, visual arts, library, wellness, performing arts, life skills, and media.

11:45AM MATH

Frequently integrated with cultural history, mathematics instruction strives to instill number sense and math skills in a developmentally appropriate progression.

11:00AM RECESS/LUNCH

Students enjoy organic, nutritious lunches prepared by the renowned Ross Café, followed by time to play and socialize.

12:30PM SPECIALS

Each week, students rotate through a variety of classes with expert teachers in such areas as science, music, visual arts, library, wellness, performing arts, life skills, and media.

1:15PM WRITER'S WORKSHOP

Beginning in kindergarten, students practice the different stages of the writing process and continue to develop the craft and mechanics of writing from grade to grade.

2:00PM CULTURAL HISTORY

Cultural history lessons provide the foundation of the Ross pedagogy, and are integrated with all other Specials classes to engage students in a holistic view of the world and their place in it.

3:05PM AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS (optional)

Students can extend their day at Ross by participating in an eclectic and extensive series of after-school enrichment opportunities, such as robotics, horseback riding lessons, animation, and theater.

AN ELEMENTARY PROGRAM DAY AT ROSS SCHOOL

ELEMENTARY ACADEMICS

Ross’s elementary program focuses on building a solid base of knowledge and skills that will serve students well throughout their educational experience. At the beginning of Ross School’s unique cultural history–based Spiral Curriculum, students study origin and creation myths from around the world; patterns and cycles; and natural, human, and social systems. These studies form the foundation for each subsequent grade level. Themes for elementary grades include The Evolution of Life on Earth, Social Systems, and Early Settlements.

In the context of this rich historical narrative, students explore a rigorous program in science, mathematics, world languages and literature, and the arts. They acquire domain-specific skills and content knowledge and learn to understand and solve problems from multiple perspectives using a variety of strategies.

Reading and Writing

Reading and writing workshops begin with the youngest students and provide the structure, tools, and support necessary for children to successfully read and comprehend literature and information, form ideas and hypotheses, find their inner voice, and effectively express their views through the written and spoken word.

Balanced Mathematics

Our balanced mathematics approach encompasses conceptual problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, math vocabulary, number study, and integrated projects, and incorporates best practices from exemplary programs, such as use of the Japanese soroban, a style of abacus used for mathematical operations. Beginning in kindergarten, students work through learning experiences that develop their conceptual understanding and activities that facilitate mastery of fundamental skills.

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Contemplative Practices

Each day at Ross Lower School includes time set aside for contemplative practices. Mindfulness is not only one of our Core Values but also a key component of Ross’s holistic wellness curriculum. Even our youngest students learn intentional breathing exercises, meditation, and other techniques that nurture both mind and body, fostering a healthful mindset they can benefit from their whole lives.

Specials Program

In addition to the core curriculum, Lower School students take part in a Specials Program that connects students with expert teachers in specialized areas. Specials classes in performing arts, science, visual arts, music, library, Mandarin, wellness, life skills, and media studies and technology both augment and integrate with the curriculum students follow in their regular classes, enriching and deepening student learning.

Buddy Program

A Buddy Program pairs older students with younger students for activities such as reading aloud to one another, classroom visits, integrated projects, and service-learning initiatives. This program helps our youngest students form lasting relationships with older mentors and gives them a preview of what to expect in the grades ahead. It also provides leadership practice for older students, offering them opportunities to serve as positive role models for younger children.