Keeping Curiosity Alive
In the Lower School, students are a part of an affirming, caring and academically challenging community that supports inquiry and the risk taking necessary for learning. At NSA, we value questions as much as answers, because we believe that fostering a healthy curiosity is essential to critical thinking and future academic success.
We are committed to the intellectual, physical, emotional and social development of each student, and our curriculum balances expectations for excellence and a sensitivity to individual differences in development and learning styles. To support the many different strengths and interests of our students, we use a wide range of strategies and strive to create a learning environment where students develop critical thinking skills and engage in creative and flexible thinking that will prepare them for success long after they leave the Lower School.
Curriculum
Extended Day Program
Our before-and after-school program offers many options to assist working families. The nurturing environment allows students to build and foster friendships while exploring areas of interest.
Health and Wellness
Our guidance and counseling program ensures that we are also addressing the social and emotional development of each child.
Take the Next Step
Learn more about what makes NSA such a special place, and discover all of the opportunities that are here for you!
Enrichment Classes
The Lower School program provides many opportunities for a well-balanced experience to help every child begin to uncover their passions. All students receive instruction in Spanish, library skills and technology to complement their core academic classes. To foster their creative expression and physical growth, we also offer art, music, physical education and daily recess.
Learning Support
To meet each child's specific needs, the Sandra F. Birdsong Center for Academic Excellence facilitates Phonological Awareness Literacy Screening (PALS™) in Pre-K4 through grade five at the beginning, middle and end of the year to assess reading levels and guide instructional practice. The Center also uses data to determine the need for reading intervention. Teachers in kindergarten through grade three are trained in the Institute for Multi-Sensory Education (IMSE) Orton-Gillingham program to provide literacy interventions in the classroom. The i-Ready Math diagnostic is also used in kindergarten through grade 5 to assess overall math performance and growth during the academic year. Diagnostic results set a personalized learning path for each student, ensuring they're working on instruction that matches their unique learning needs.
Lower School Administration and Staff
Our passionate educators are committed to your child's academic, social and character development. We look forward to partnering with you to inspire a lifelong love of learning!