Enriching the Child: Grades 1 through 4

The Lower School staff, grades 1 through 4, builds carefully on the Montessori framework, and collaborates closely with Montessori faculty to ensure a smooth, seamless transition. Students in grades one through four receive a more substantive introduction to computers, and to the core elements of The Summit's academic curriculum: language arts, math, foreign language, science, social studies, fine arts, physical education, and religion.

Our Lower School is enhanced by The Summit's new, state-of-the-art facility. Designed to provide a completely child-centered learning experience, the new building features large, roomy classrooms that allow for interaction and hands-on learning; science labs filled with the latest equipment; and a bright, spacious library. Faculty and teaching assistants are all state-certified; small class sizes guarantee that every student receives plenty of individualized attention.

The Lower School at The Summit Country Day School includes students in grades 1-4. Students in grades 1-3 have a homeroom teacher who is responsible for language arts, reading and mathematics as part of the morning program. Social studies, science and religion are taught in the afternoon. Grade 4 students have a homeroom teacher with subjects taught in a departmentalized structure.

Grades 1 through 3 have self-contained teaching teams with teaching assistants who compile learning packets, assist students in small groups and compliment the teacher’s style of instruction. Specialty classes are also a part of the curriculum and students participate in each of these classes on a rotating basis. Foreign language (French or Spanish), library, physical education, music, art and keyboarding indicate the variety of subjects covered by these specials.

In addition to keyboarding, computers are used as a learning tool and are integrated into the classroom. A state-of-the-art computer lab, science labs and art center are available for the students to use weekly with their teachers.

First Grade

First grade students are involved in a developmental program which provides a solid foundation in the language arts (reading, phonics, writing and spelling) and mathematics. The afternoon classes of science, social studies and religion enrich and enhance the student’s learning.

Second Grade

Second grade students broaden and enrich the skills established in first grade, continuing to strengthen the spiritual, academic, social, physical, and artistic dimensions of the child. In addition, the second grade curriculum includes a specially designed program in problem solving and critical thinking.

Third Grade

The third grade program expands to include more opportunities for the students to become independent, responsible learners. Team work, report writing and oral presentations are introduced in the third grade. Problem solving and critical thinking are emphasized.

Fourth Grade

The fourth grade students increase their focus on developing research and writing skills in language arts. Students are also actively involved with science and engage in scientific experiments. Further, technology is integrated throughout the curriculum on an everyday basis, as laptop computers are utilized. A departmentalized approach that rotates around a class schedule begins in fourth grade as students begin to prepare for the Middle School experience.

Faculty devoted to high standards, state-of-the-art resources, outstanding curriculum and an enthusiastic learning community have resulted in many distinctive programs that make The Summit unique among private and public schools in Cincinnati. These Signature Programs epitomize The Summit’s dedication to academic excellence while fulfilling its mission to challenge students to develop spiritually, academically, physically, socially and artistically.

• Guided Reading

  Guided Reading is an intense literacy program in the Lower School that emphasizes having fun while teaching individual students how to read increasingly difficult texts with understanding and fluency.

• Garden for the Good

  The Lower School’s Garden for the Good combines provides lessons in environmental stewardship, nutrition and art, while offering a forum for a character-building community service project.

• Student-led Conferences

  The Lower School’s Student-led Conferences emphasize responsibility for learning, independence, presentation and relationships with parents and teachers.

• Character Education

  Character Education is a way of life at The Summit, where part of the core mission is to help students become people of character who value and improve the world they inherit.

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  World Language

  The Summit aims to produce high-school graduates with strong proficiency in French or Spanish through a 13-year World Language program.

   

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  Writing Program

  The Summit’s Writing Program lets students find their voice through a fusion of time-tested writing approaches from preschool to 12th grade.

   

• Personalized Instruction
  

  We tailor instruction to each individual so every graduate walks away with the tools needed to succeed in college and an understanding of how to continue learning as they face the challenges of a changing world.

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