In Upland's Lower School, children are surrounded by caring teachers who encourage students to take risks and explore their individual talents and strengths. Children learn how to learn by actively constructing knowledge through exploration and integrating new information with prior knowledge. Instilling in the student a passion for the challenge of learning builds a solid foundation for a lifetime of learning.
Children in Lower School move through a comprehensive and progressive program in which they are challenged at each level with developmentally appropriate expectations and goals. As students grow from 2nd through 5th grade, they take on more responsibility each year and earn more privileges, thus learning how to balance the many aspects of school life.
The Academic Program in the Lower School contains many components that are unique. For example, all Lower School students have three 40-minute laboratory science classes each week, taught by a full-time Lower School science teacher. Additionally, all students have instruction in Spanish language and culture two times a week with a teacher who is a native speaker. Lower School students are immersed in the arts throughout the school year, having studio art two days a week, rotating between 2-D and 3-D art, and music two days a week throughout the year. All Lower School grades present a theatrical production during the year and have drama class in the weeks leading up to their scheduled productions. Research reporting begins in 1st grade, and technology is incorporated in these and many other projects.
While Upland believes in challenging students cognitively, we also believe that meaningful learning is not limited to a child’s intellect. The needs of the whole child (cognitive, social, emotional and physical) are recognized and met. An interdisciplinary approach is utilized to further promote understanding and achievement. To this end, the Lower School program incorporates community service into various academic units. For example, as part of a math unit, the 4th grade runs a popcorn business in which they learn about accounting, marketing and management. The proceeds are donated to various charities. Similarly, the 3rd grade raises money for the rain forest through artwork. Lower School students also take part in special activities that are long-standing traditions here at Upland, such as the 4th and 5th grade Valentine Tea and the 2nd grade Pioneer Day.
By the time students complete the Lower School program, they understand how they learn best and have developed confidence, creativity and a mastery of skills. They have learned to be part of a group and have developed respect for others and practice in seeing others’ points of view. Children ultimately believe in themselves as important individuals and as vital members of their community. They are ready for the challenges they will face in Upper School.
