Lower School

List of 10 items.

• Literacy

  In the Lower School, boys learn how to be active readers, writers, and thinkers. We believe that to increase skills and fluency, boys need ample opportunity to both read and write. Our approach to teaching reading and writing is informed by research and science. As such, literacy development starts with the use of a systematic and explicit phonics program called Fundations (Kindergarten – Grade 4). This approach underscores the importance of developing foundational phonological skills that strengthen reading comprehension, spelling, handwriting, and more! Combining a strong phonics program with reading and writing instruction steeped in meaning, practice, and context, ensures that our Lower School boys become strong readers and writers who connect deeply with texts and who value the learning gleaned from fiction and nonfiction alike.

   

  In the Library: Students spend time exploring different genres, authors, and series across the grades. Each literature lesson is accompanied by an SEL discussion and/or a language-focused activity or extension. In general, students are encouraged throughout the year to develop their familiarity with library resources while broadening their interests and growing as independent readers.

• Math

  Understanding and problem-solving are at the heart of the Bridges in Mathematics program in the Lower School. Through hands-on learning and game-based activities, boys develop numeracy, a critical component to both understanding and efficiency in math. Questions like, “How do you know that?”, “Can you solve that another way?”, and “What can you use to solve that?” drive our program. Boys are challenged to think critically and solve efficiently. Though often seen as a “binary subject,” Bridges math helps the boys understand that math is really about solving problems creatively and purposefully.

   

  For more information on the background and research behind our math program, click here.

• STEM

  Discover the wonders of STEM in our Lower School program, where curiosity meets creativity for students in Kindergarten through Grade 4! Our hands-on curriculum encompasses life science, physical science, earth science, robotics, coding, engineering and design, and gardening. Young learners will explore the world around them, experiment with engineering challenges, and dive into the exciting realms of robotics and coding. Through engaging projects and gardening activities, students will cultivate not only plants but also a lifelong passion for discovery and problem-solving.

• Social Studies

  In the Lower School, the Social Studies curriculum is about heart, connection, and humanity. Each grade level addresses meaningful topics through essential questions like, “What is a community?” “What is my role in my community?” “How does geography influence culture?” In Social Studies, students take deep dives into the social, cultural, geographical, historical, and institutional implications surrounding their studies, often using reading, writing, and math as academic drivers. Social Studies provide an additional programmatic experience for the boys to be reflective, opinionated, curious, and engaged. 

• Physical Education

  At Cathedral School for Boys, our Physical Education (P.E.) program is designed to be a dynamic and exciting experience where students not only stay active but truly thrive. We combine classic, beloved games like soccer, basketball, and capture the flag with exercises such as push-ups, squats, and running, aimed at building both physical and mental strength. Our goal is for students to feel comfortable and confident in their skills, continually improving through a game-based approach.

   

  To keep things fresh and broaden horizons, we’ll introduce games from around the world, like Ampe from Africa and Patintero from the Philippines, bringing variety, cultural awareness, and a global perspective to our P.E. curriculum.

   

  By focusing on enhancing the boys’ coordination through both gross and fine motor development, with proper demonstrations and practice, we create a strong foundation for each student’s growth and improvement.

   

  Beyond physical activity, our program emphasizes key life skills, including nutrition, teamwork, honesty, problem-solving, and resilience. Through this engaging blend of fun, fitness, and life lessons, we aim to give Cathedral School students an unforgettable year of P.E., helping them grow in every way possible.

• World Languages

  World Language instruction in the Lower School is designed to spark curiosity and interest in the language and the cultures in which it is spoken. Starting in Grade 3, students experience an entire year of Spanish instruction and then move on to a year of Mandarin in Grade 4. Through games, songs, call-and-response activities, and small-group work, our boys learn the basic grammar and vocabulary necessary to express themselves in age and developmentally appropriate ways. An emphasis on cultural awareness is equally important as boys learn about the Spanish- and Mandarin-speaking worlds and the diversity of cultures and peoples who live within them. By Grade 5, our students are ready to engage more deeply with either their Spanish or their Mandarin studies as they choose a focus for their Upper School years.

• Visual Arts

  The Lower School Visual Arts program introduces students to a wide range of materials, art forms, artists, and cultures. Students explore various media, such as paints, pastels, clay, textiles, and collage, along with unconventional materials like found objects and recycled items. The fundamental visual elements of line, shape, texture, value, color, form, and space are explored and approached as the vowel sounds in learning this visual language. The Visual Arts room serves as a safe, creative space where each boy can freely explore and express his unique ideas. With a balance of structured lessons and opportunities for personal expression, the program encourages students to build upon their own creative ideas.

   

  Art education supports students in harnessing their imaginations, building confidence, and enriching their overall learning experience with an inclusive, global perspective. Artworks from all cultures are examined, and with practice each boy develops holistically with a global attitude of art and culture.

• Performing Arts

  We believe that every boy has an artist within him and that deep learning comes from hands-on practice and experience. The Lower School Performing Arts curriculum focuses on music appreciation, music theory, musical performance, and drama, with every student participating in some level of performance each year. Through our curriculum, boys learn about melody, pitch, rhythm, tempo, and musical notation, using the Kodaly method to gradually deepen their understanding as they grow. In music and performing arts, students explore sound, rhythm, choral singing, and public speaking, refining their skills through performances that foster confidence and expressive abilities.

• Technology

  We believe technology encompasses a range of tools and devices that support the growth and learning of our students and is inseparable from learning in the 21st century. Through a balanced approach, where devices and screens are used intentionally and in sync with hands-on learning, our students have even more opportunities to thrive in the classroom. In Lower School, students build foundational technology skills that include typing, digital media creation, coding, and robotics. Devices are used in developmentally appropriate ways across subject areas, and simultaneously, students learn about mindfulness with technology use so that they can become responsible, productive, and creative digital citizens at Cathedral School and beyond.

• Co-Lead Teaching Model

  The Lower School has co-lead teachers in kindergarten through third grade. The Co-Lead Model is one in which two experienced classroom teachers actively teach, plan, and assess alongside each other in one classroom. The benefits of this model are many, including greater collaboration, communication, and student engagement. Perhaps the greatest benefit is the reduction of the student to teacher ratio. With co-lead teachers, the class size is reduced from 2:24 to 1:12 and in some cases, 1:6. Smaller student to teacher ratios result in improved student engagement and learning, as teachers are better able to assess and plan for instruction.