St. Luke's Lower School provides a wide range of programs that promote the growth of the "whole child." We believe the college preparatory process begins with standards and expectations established in the early years. Our core curriculum, made up of Language Arts, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Science, is taught with a traditional philosophy of instruction; however, our faculty uses an eclectic approach to teaching which offers the best of both traditional and modern curriculum and teaching strategies. Our reading program provides a strong phonics base, blended with "whole language" instruction. As in any good reading program, instruction in comprehension skills and strategies are included. Children are also exposed to a wide range of literature in an effort to instill an excitement and love of reading. Students in 4-year-old kindergarten through the fifth grade use the University of Chicago's Everyday Math program. This program is designed to teach math concepts in one grade level and continually review those concepts while adding to and expanding upon them year by year. Students are also challenged through Science, Social Studies, and Creative Writing.
St. Luke's Lower School offers a strong core curriculum and so much more. Students attend enrichment classes including Art, Music, Computer, and Foreign Language. Lower School students attend Physical Education class every day and Chapel services are held weekly. Children also visit the Library once a week where they can check out books, enjoy storytelling time, and participate in the Accelerated Reader program. Lower School students visit the Math and Science Lab where they are able to experience hands on activities that begin to explain the how's and why's of the subject. A variety of field trips taken throughout the year are examples of outside learning experiences that enhance and broaden the education received in the classroom.
St. Luke's Lower School serves children in the first through the fifth grades and offers a comprehensive curriculum that is challenging and stimulating. However, we believe our greatest gift to our students is the strong sense of family that makes early school experiences personal, positive, and fulfilling. This sense of inclusion in a nurturing community lays a foundation for learning that will stand them in good stead, not just for the rest of their school years, but also for the rest of their lives.
Educational research supports our strong belief that the heart of a teacher can reach the mind of a child. Through warm, loving relationships learning is possible.
An Inside Look
- Dedicated, caring teachers
- Comprehensive research-based reading curriculum
- Language Arts program uses writing and reading integration
- University of Chicago's Everyday Math program
- Fully equipped Science Lab
- Technological resources and instruction
- Daily physical education classes
- Group and individual counseling services available
- Instruction in Visual Arts and Music
- Foreign Language instruction
- Daily outdoor recess
- Field trips, guest speakers, and arts presentations
- Class plays that build self-confidence
- Before and after school extended care available
- Summer camp at St. Luke's
- Infirmary staffed by full time registered nurse
- Opportunities for parent involvement