Lower School

The Lower School at Foote is a boundless journey of self-discovery and possibility. Teachers and students construct knowledge together while learning to read, write, problem-solve, and build independence. Our curriculum is built on the fundamentals of experiential learning. Our students learn to take risks and challenge assumptions by engaging in hands-on challenges.

Why the early years matter
Learning in Lower School

Why the early years matter

Foote School is a magical place to be a young child. Each day is filled with wonder and hands-on learning that inspires and challenges young minds. From the very first day, our students are valued and nurtured as individuals by teachers who expertly guide each child to reach his or her full potential.

Foote teachers understand that children are naturally curious and cultivate that sense of wonder into a lifelong love of learning by encouraging questions that lead to deeper discovery. At Foote, a child’s curiosity isn’t a detour from the day’s lesson—it is the lesson.

Our inquiry-based approach makes learning an active and exciting experience for children, leading them to greater understanding. Ask a Kindergartner why wood floats in water, and you’re likely to get an answer about physics and fluid dynamics. Enter a second grade classroom and listen as students consider concepts of equality and injustice with insight.

We take play seriously in the early grades because decades of research have shown it develops creativity, resilience, executive function and problem-solving skills, allowing our youngest learners to meet academic challenges with joy and confidence.

Children and parents at Foote are welcomed into a second family. Teachers celebrate individual students within the group and honor their backgrounds while crafting experiences that build community through problem solving and play. In short order, children develop a sense of belonging and come to see learning as great fun.

Learning in Lower School

Throughout Grades K–5, students explore their own identities and celebrate the individual contributions they bring to our school community. Our classroom curriculum is enriched through art, drama, music, outdoor education, physical education, Spanish and Mandarin Chinese. The combined experience affords students the opportunity to discover their own voice, ask thoughtful questions, develop their talents and make courageous choices.

Learning in the Lower School at Foote is a truly unique experience, and one that remains with our students throughout their lives. We invite you to explore our Lower School curriculum and visit Foote to experience the excitement for yourself!

Buddy Program

The Buddy Program pairs younger students with older ones for activities like reading, community service, art projects, and play. Kindergarteners are paired with ninth graders, first graders with eighth graders and so on. The program builds friendship and community, and genuine affection between buddies which lasts for years.

Curriculum By Grade

Head of Lower School Cara Hames

Learn More

Learn More

Cara Hames was named Head of Lower School in January 2023. She came to Foote in 2013 as a third grade and mixed-age/looping first- and second-grade teacher. In her time here, she has advanced the Yale RULER approach to social-emotional learning, and has been an integral part in the growth and development of our school-wide Professional Development program.

Before coming to Foote, Cara spent 11 years as a second- and third-grade teacher at the John F. Kennedy School in Milford. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood and Elementary Education at Green Mountain College, graduating magna cum laude. She earned a Master of Arts in Learning and Thinking from The Graduate Institute in Bethany in 2012. Cara lives in Orange with her husband, Rob, and their three children.

After School Program

In the news

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