The Lower School language arts program nurtures a life-long passion for reading and for writing.

We teach children the skills they need to read for information and for pleasure.

We teach them writing skills so they can convey information, express their thoughts, feelings and opinions, and give written form to their imagination.

Phonics, grammar and the mechanics of writing are taught in the context of projects that involve and motivate the children. Our aim is for them to become inquisitive, thoughtful, motivated and independent readers and writers.

In the Lower School math program we work to demonstrate to the children the many ways in which math affects their lives. As active learners the students investigate, explore, think and communicate while using many different materials, learning styles and strategies in both concept development and problem solving.

We seek to help the children become facile with basic arithmetic facts, understand fundamental mathematical language and be familiar with a wide variety of concepts and topics within the discipline.

The modern languages program aims to help children communicate effectively and accurately in a second language, to foster an appreciation and understanding of cultural differences, and to develop enthusiasm for language study.

We believe that proficiency in the four basic language skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) is best acquired over a period of time, and that the language being studied should be the language of instruction.

Because young children learn a language and its pronunciation with greater ease and accuracy, we are committed to early and continuing exposure. French is introduced in Kindergarten, and students take Spanish in the Mixed Age Group (grades one and two). They take French again in third grade and in forth grade choose one of the two languages to study in depth through ninth grade.

At every level in the Lower School curriculum we interweave various elements (such as visits from native speakers, cooking, videos, computer programs and games) to help children develop a sense of cultural appreciation.

The Lower School science program excites the children’s curiosity while helping them develop a knowledge of the natural and physical environment. Our students work with a variety of instruments and materials, and are always encouraged to observe and question so as to develop the skills necessary for the scientific method of investigation.

As students progress through our curriculum, we place increasing emphasis on quantitative observation to complement qualitative exploration. We make every attempt to integrate scientific inquiry into the core curriculum. For example, the fourth grade mapping project is integrated with the social studies curriculum.

Often seamlessly integrated into other curricular areas, the Lower School social studies program helps children gain a better understanding of themselves as well as a view of the world beyond the classroom walls. Students study their community, the United States, and the world in a culturally sensitive manner.

In fourth and fifth grade students learn about the variety of human experience in early civilizations. We emphasize geography at every grade level.

The art program seeks to provide an experience that focuses on process as well as product. The program builds visual intelligence, self-esteem and problem-solving skills while exposing the children to a vast array of media and methods. We teach the children about other cultures through interdisciplinary projects, helping them to understand themselves and to respect individual differences.

The technology department works with teachers to provide a rich and supportive learning environment that enables and encourages confident, practical, and imaginative uses of technology across the curriculum. We seek to help students, faculty and staff realize the potential of information technology to enhance their daily endeavors.

The 47,000 volume Frank Perrine Library is a resource center for the Foote School community. The overall goal is to provide a welcoming and attractive space so students will always believe that libraries are wonderful places where they can find literature to feed their imaginations and information to answer their questions.

To achieve this goal, the Library:
• supports the classroom curriculum with carefully selected materials in both traditional and technological formats;
• promotes the learning of information skills to enable our students to become intellectually curious, lifelong learners who can operate effectively in any library;
• fosters an appreciation of reading, listening and viewing as sources of pleasure and personal growth;
• and inspires creative and critical reading, thinking and writing.

Students are welcome in the library at any time during the school day to read, or to find new books to enjoy at home. Parents are also welcome to visit the Library to read and check out books before and after class hours (8:30–3:00 or 2:20 on Fridays) - during the school day the Library is a classroom like any other.

The music program nurtures children’s natural love of music. We provide opportunities for students to develop basic skills in both reading and writing music, to explore many genres of music, and to experience vocal, instrumental and dance performances. We encourage the students to create their own music. By laying this foundation, we foster a high level of understanding and appreciation of musical arts.

By focusing on cooperation, skill development, and fitness, the physical education program emphasizes participation and fun. We provide opportunities for all students to learn and practice age-appropriate skills, and to develop the concepts of fair play and good sportsmanship. Students learn to enjoy physical activity and its benefits, and to develop an appreciation of a wide variety of sports, both as spectators and as participants.

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