Lower School | PreK–Gr. 5

The Lower School curriculum balances rigorous academics with arts and athletics along a carefully designed, developmentally appropriate continuum. Even at a young age, we believe students can be analytical about a variety of disciplines, and the breadth of our curriculum sets our Lower School apart from others. It stresses the importance of play in learning social skills, and builds the academic, emotional, and physical skills necessary to set the foundation for independent and balanced learning throughout their years at Shipley. Visit the Lower School curriculum page to learn more.

A Shipley education is not just about academic success—it is about learning how to be your best self, and having the self-awareness to discover what character traits it takes to do your best work. We believe that this self-awareness and development of ethics and character begins as early as pre-K, which is why our Character Education program is fully integrated into every classroom.

In the Lower School, students are learning to be independent as their teachers work with them to set goals and determine action steps to achieve those goals. Each classroom develops a compact, which makes students feel respected and bonds the classroom community together through a shared sense of responsibility. Time is allocated each week to discuss conflict resolution and to develop empathy and communication skills.

Through this holistic view of social and emotional learning that empowers academic learning, Character Education is a thread that is carried through every class, and prepares students to be confident learners and friends in the Middle School years to come. Learn more about Think, Care, Act, Character Education’s capstone project.

At Shipley, learning continues even after the school day is over, and our breadth of programs and activities gives our students the opportunity to discover and pursue their interests, and to learn about the world around them. A few examples:

Exploring the World

• Shipley Lower School supports its sister school, The Brain Tree School in Uganda. Students spearhead fundraising efforts while building relationships with students and teachers.
• 4th grade students spend a day in Lancaster County, visiting Amish produce and livestock auctions and a one-room schoolhouse where they share and compare their culture, lives, and experiences.

Beyond the School Day

• Later Gator after-school program, daily from 3:00-5:45pm
• Encore Clubs: chess, sewing, cooking, sports, and so much more
• Private music lessons: before and after school, as well as during lunch or lunch recess
• Learn more about Shipley's after-school programs