Pre-Kindergarten  to Grade Three

The Lower School provides a structured, challenging and dynamic academic environment in which each boy develops a strong sense of confidence in himself as a learner. In the pre-primary grades, the curriculum introduces a vast array of topics and disciplines that aim to foster a love of discovery while cultivating the skills necessary for continued academic achievement. Boys learn to work and play together while taking their first steps toward independence.

Language arts and mathematics form the core of the academic curriculum. Taught in small instructional groups that progress at an appropriate pace, these classes balance direct instruction with group and individualized work. Each boy is challenged to master carefully sequenced concepts and skills at every level. The reading program is enhanced by stimulating projects such as the Third Grade monthly book celebrations, in which boys produce book jackets, movie posters or "book floats" to illustrate the books they have enjoyed.

Incorporating formal listening and speaking instruction, language arts in the Lower School is a comprehensive approach to early literacy development. Homeroom teachers read aloud daily, sharing with the boys the beauty and excitement of classic children's literature. Written composition is integral to the program and developing writers learn to express themselves in clear, well-organized sentences and paragraphs.

A similar small-group format in mathematics allows each boy to proceed at a pace appropriate for his level. Teachers emphasize the four basic operations, as well as computation skills and the automatic recall of math facts. Along with math lab manipulatives, fundamental mathematical skills and concepts are introduced, reinforced and mastered. hands-on activities like the First Grade store, Second Grade math mountain and Third Grade surveys, enrich the program, bringing math to life and ensuring boys practice and apply skills in novel problem-solving situations.

Weekly classes in science, music, art, pottery, woodworking and technology augment the core curriculum, introducing the boys to new areas in which they may experiment, reason, learn, create and excel. Lower School boys enjoy a dedicated library - a cozy and inviting space with an exceptional collection of classic works and newly published volumes. Boys participate in a daily sports period where they exercise and have fun while developing physical skills, teamwork and good sportsmanship.

Throughout the year, special events connect the Lower School boys with their older schoolmates as well as with their peers from neighboring schools. Special activities allow the younger boys to meet and enjoy the company of  their older schoolmates as well as their peers from neighboring schools.

Community service begins early at Saint David’s . Lower School boys participate in a variety of charitable activities. Service brings the school’s Judeo-Christian values to life and helps the boys begin to appreciate the differences and unique needs of others.

The strength of the Lower School program lies in its teachers who are dedicated to developing the competence, critical thinking, self-esteem and creativity of each boy. Saint David's boys treasure their school experience and become enthusiastic lifelong learners.