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The Lower School

Children in Pre-K–IIIrd Form (5th Grade) 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.


 

 

Rumsey’s Lower School, Pre-Kindergarten – III Form (grades Pre-K-5), offers students a place to develop as individuals at their own pace. 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 class participates in a morning meeting program that focuses on citizenship and social skills, which underscores the School’s dedication to honesty, kindness, and respect. The Rumsey setting in the Bantam River Valley provides a wonderful natural laboratory for studying the environment.

The Lower School has self-contained classrooms located on the first floor of the Sanford House and in the M. Joseph Garassino ’99 Classroom Building. After Morning Meeting there are eight academic periods, Monday through Friday, from 8am – 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 and physical education vary the students’ schedules by requiring them to change classrooms with specialized teachers. Lunch is served family style in Farmen Hall in the Campus Center. After classes, students participate in the Afternoon Enrichment Program until 4:30 p.m. Activities include daily athletic and art options that vary seasonally. IIIrd Form (5th Grade) students have the opportunity to participate in the Upper School Athletic Program, which includes various teams that compete with other schools.

 

"This is Rumsey" Lower School



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.