A Strong Beginning

Children who experience caring and enrichment at an early age are more likely to thrive as they grow. The Summit’s Lower School is committed to carefully nurturing our youngest students, giving them the tools that they need to succeed throughout subsequent phases of The Summit’s programs, and in every area of their lives.

First steps: the Lower School Montessori Pre-School through Kindergarten

The Summit’s Montessori program provides a positive, stimulating introduction to classroom education for students ages three to five, offering both full- and half-day sessions. Children learn the Montessori philosophy of order, independence, concentration, and coordination, gradually moving from the concrete to the abstract. Emphasis is placed on developing nascent skills in areas such as language, math, computers, science, geography, and music. Students also participate in physical education, sensorial development, and spiritual growth. The Montessori program at The Summit gives each child a framework that helps ensure continued academic success in grades one through four and beyond.

Mastering the basics: the Lower School
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.