Lower School
Pre-Primes through IIIrd Form (Grades 1 – 5)
Children in Pre-Primes through IIIrd Form (Grades 1–5) at Rumsey Hall thrive in a small, nurturing environment that emphasizes inquiry, interconnection, and the development of independence with a balance of structure and freedom. Role models abound and School values are lived. Lower School students enjoy the wonder of today and anticipate the promise of tomorrow. Teachers and instruction focus on students’ individual strengths and needs while presenting a strong base of knowledge and skills to build upon in the middle school years and beyond.
Each day, the Lower School gathers together for Morning Meeting as part of the School's focus on citizenship, community life skills, and public speaking. After Morning Meeting, there are eight academic periods, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. English, reading, math, science, and social studies are taught by the homeroom teachers. Classes in music, art, foreign languages, language skills, health, physical education, and library and information literacy vary the students’ schedules by requiring them to change classrooms with specialized teachers. A student-run lunch is served family style in Farmen Hall. After classes, students participate in the Afternoon Enrichment Program until 4:30 p.m. Activities include daily academic, athletic, and art options that vary seasonally. IIIrd Form (Grade 5) students have the opportunity to participate in the Upper School Athletic Program, which includes many teams that compete with other schools.
DEVELOPING LIFE SKILLS
Self-confidence, courtesy and a strong work ethic are strongly emphasized at Rumsey. Students are guided in developing these life skills in age appropriate ways. At Morning Meeting, children work on poise and public speaking. Family-style meals help promote good manners while developing social skills. Throughout the day, all children are encouraged to do their best. Beginning in the Ist Form (3rd Grade) they receive effort grades and may be recognized on the Effort List.
A SMOOTH TRANSITION
IIIrd Form (5th Grade) is both the culmination of the elementary experience and the beginning of a purposeful transition to the Upper School. IIIrd Formers enjoy the responsibility of serving as prefects at lunch tables. They also have the opportunity to play interscholastic sports and attend some Upper School Morning Meetings as they form connections with Upper School students and faculty members.