Lower School (Elementary Grades K-5)
Where Young Minds Flourish and Grow
Young children develop attitudes about learning based on their earliest experiences in school. At The Crenshaw Academy's Lower School, we create an environment where curiosity thrives and every child's natural love of learning is nurtured and encouraged. Our intimate 12:1 student-teacher ratio ensures that each child receives the individual attention they need to flourish.
A Nurturing Environment for Academic Excellence
From the moment students enter our Lower School program, they are welcomed into a supportive community that balances academic excellence with social-emotional development. Our approach focuses on:
Developmental Appropriateness
- Carefully sequenced curriculum that aligns with each child's developmental stage
- Hands-on learning experiences that engage multiple senses
- Flexible pacing that allows students to progress at their optimal rate
- Regular assessment and communication with parents to ensure each child's needs are met
Core Academic Foundation
- Strong emphasis on foundational literacy and numeracy skills
- Integrated STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) curriculum
- Project-based learning that connects classroom concepts to real-world applications
- Development of critical thinking and problem-solving skills through engaging activities
Social-Emotional Growth
- Daily opportunities for collaborative learning and social interaction
- Character education integrated throughout the curriculum
- Mindfulness practices that support emotional regulation
- Regular community service projects that foster empathy and social responsibility
Curriculum Highlights
Language Arts
- Phonics-based reading instruction
- Writing workshops that develop creative and expository writing skills
- Literature circles that foster comprehension and analytical thinking
- Public speaking opportunities through class presentations
Mathematics
- Hands-on manipulation of concrete materials to understand abstract concepts
- Problem-solving strategies that develop mathematical thinking
- Real-world applications that make math meaningful
- Differentiated instruction to challenge each student appropriately
Science
- Inquiry-based learning through hands-on experiments
- Environmental education and sustainability projects
- Integration of technology in scientific exploration
- Regular use of our outdoor learning spaces
Social Studies
- Exploration of communities, cultures, and history
- Geography skills integrated across the curriculum
- Civic responsibility and community engagement
- Global awareness through cultural studies
Specialty Programs
- Physical Education with D2 Futsal program
- Art instruction focusing on creativity and self-expression
- Music education including vocal and instrumental instruction
- Spanish language instruction beginning in Kindergarten
- Technology integration across all subject areas
The Crenshaw Difference
Small Class Sizes
Our 12:1 student-teacher ratio allows for:
- Individualized attention
- Frequent teacher feedback
- Differentiated instruction
- Strong teacher-student relationships
Habits of Mind Development
We cultivate essential thinking skills including:
- Curiosity and questioning
- Critical reflection
- Creative problem-solving
- Synthesis of ideas
- Perspective-taking
Join Our Learning Community
Schedule a tour to see our Lower School in action and learn how we can support your child's educational journey. Experience firsthand how The Crenshaw Academy's Lower School program creates an environment where young learners thrive.