K-4: A Strong Foundation for Learning
Lower School is where curiosity, creativity and confidence grow.
Our program provides a strong foundation with a hands-on approach that brings learning to life. Students engage with teachers, collaborate in groups and participate in integrated learning opportunities. The playfulness that starts in Kindergarten grows each year, staying joyful while experiencing new, more thorough understanding of the world around them. After Grade 4, students transition to Middle School prepared for what’s ahead.
Building Skills and Confidence
Developing students who can think, learn, synthesize, analyze and express is central to our role as a school, and the journey starts in Lower School.
Literacy
Math
Additional Subjects
Character and Kindness
Children internalize the traits of kindness and inclusivity through daily morning activities guided by Responsive ClassroomTM that encourage them to be thoughtful, respectful members of their community. Specific character and wellness topics are inspired by current events, classroom dynamics and developmental stages. Our commitment to character blends in service learning projects and culturally responsive practices. Collaboration and respect are also key.
Innovation and Technology
Throughout the entire Lower School program, our faculty infuse innovation skills into lessons and projects, either in the classroom or in the Gates Invention Lab. Students become master thinkers through design thinking challenges that tap into their creativity and grit to solve problems. Essential "new media" skills are taught through the Digital Media Studio, iPads and learning apps, and other mind expanding projects.
Physical Education
Physical activity is another essential part of a Lower School student’s experience, as students have daily PE class. We know that living a healthy lifestyle, practicing teamwork and sportsmanship, and developing gross motor skills and coordination help children be their best. The extra boost of oxygen to the brain is an added benefit!
The Arts
Visual art, music and drama enrich our program by giving children opportunities to creatively express themselves as they grow and develop. Young artists are instructed, inspired and encouraged to explore a variety of media techniques and art genres with visual art teachers. Concerts, musicals and dramatic performances allow children to share their talent, gain self-awareness and work together. With the after school Music Conservatory students can take their music skills to the next level.
Leadership and Service
Lower School students are encouraged to be engaged in the world around them and to develop leadership skills that will serve them for a lifetime. We start developing public speaking skills in Kindergarten and offer plenty of ways to practice these skills. By fourth grade, students lead Lower School assemblies and become the older buddies for the first time as they mentor kindergartners.
Our signature programs give students trips, traditions and service learning opportunities to look forward to and memories to last a lifetime.
Scroll through to take a peek at the Lower School journey
- Math
- Literacy
- Music
- Drama
- Visual Arts
- Physical Education
- Spanish
- Science
- Library
- Social Studies
- Responsive Classroom
- Service Learning
- Traditions
- Signature Programs
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
