O'Neal's Lower School provides an atmosphere that allows a child the opportunity to acquire and maintain self-confidence, feel secure with the surroundings, accept challenge with enthusiasm and get involved with every aspect of the program.
The Lower School teacher is responsible for creating an environment favorable to learning and personal growth.
The Lower School grades follow the Core Knowledge Curriculum. Opportunities are provided for classroom instruction and individual and group work. Each child's differences are met on a one-to-one basis or in small, highly flexible groups. Students are instructed in all academic areas, with emphasis on the basic skills, especially language, arts and math. Homework appropriate for each grade level is given.
Trained teachers in the areas of art, Spanish, computer, music, and physical education provide a well-rounded program. Time allotments vary according to the maturity and interest of the children. Flexibility is arranged when necessary. Grade level teachers use this released time for planning and preparation.
Many opportunities are provided throughout the year to give students experiences in awareness, expression, and appreciation. Field trips and special programs are important parts of the total Lower School curriculum.
Teachers enjoy a close relationship, working together at their specific grade levels and other grade levels to ensure a happy, disciplined atmosphere with a quality education for each child. Meetings are held periodically to discuss and evaluate the curriculum, classroom management, new ideas, and methods of teaching.
The typical elementary school day is structured, challenging, and comprehensive throughout the program, and the students are motivated to learn through many different modes of instruction, be it playing with blocks or doing library research. The combination of challenging curriculum, a willing student body, an eager and active parent organization, and a tight-knit group of dedicated professionals to bring it all together, are the foundation for a successful elementary experience that is The O'Neal Lower School.