LOWER SCHOOL
When young children discover the joy of learning, they can achieve extraordinary things—and that discovery happens every day in Shipley’s Lower School.
Our Curriculum
Academics that Challenge & Inspire
How does the world work? What influences societies? What does it mean to be part of a community? In Lower School, students of all ages don’t just learn facts; they gain the tools and critical thinking skills to understand the world, identify their feelings, voice their ideas, and find joy and purpose in their education.
Through an experiential and interdisciplinary curriculum, we challenge students to think deeply, explore big questions, and connect foundational skills to real-world contexts—all while having fun.
Students also have many unmatched opportunities to find and explore what they love through specials, which include Spanish, music, art, Physical Education (PE), library, science, technology, and SEED. These classes are a place to express ideas, discover one's strengths, and try something new.
Explore Shipley
From PreK through Grade 5, Shipley students are inspired to wonder, create, explore, and think. They connect with caring teachers who truly know them—not just by their names but by their unique stories, strengths, and dreams. They learn that their voice is valuable and their contributions are critical. They take pride in their hard work as they build confidence and a strong foundation for their future.
This is more than a Lower School. It’s the ideal place for your child (and your family) to begin a lifelong learning journey.
Show What You Know
Shipley's Lower School students engage in memorable, culminating projects that bring learning to life through research, creativity, and public speaking.
| Desert Zoo |
2nd Grade Desert ZooAs part of their study of geographic regions of the world, second graders explore the wonders of the desert by researching an animal of their choice. Through their first expository writing project, students learn to take notes, organize information, and present their findings—culminating in a vibrant Desert Zoo exhibit that showcases their clay models, scientific knowledge, and growing confidence as public speakers and writers.  |
| Bagels & Biographies |
3rd Grade Bagels & BiographiesDressed as inspiring figures from history, third graders step into character to present first-person biographies of individuals who have made a positive impact on the world. This interdisciplinary project builds research and writing skills—and cultivates courage, empathy, and public speaking confidence as students perform for families, teachers, and peers.  |
| Revolutionary War Debate |
4th Grade Revolutionary War DebateTaking on the roles of colonists and loyalists, fourth graders dive deep into history to debate the causes of the American Revolution. With well-researched arguments, persuasive writing, and quick-thinking rebuttals, students build critical thinking and public speaking skills—while discovering the power of their voice in shaping ideas and understanding the past.  |
Capstone Experiences
Projects You’ll Never Forget
Shipley Lower School students engage in experiential projects that spark curiosity and bring learning to life. These Capstone Projects teach academic content while emphasizing collaboration, creative problem-solving, and leadership.
Imagine walking in the shoes of someone immigrating through Ellis Island as a third-grader, reciting your own poem at the first-grade poetry café, or creating an entire “Desert Zoo” exhibit in second grade. By fifth grade, you’ll be leading debates, designing research projects, and presenting your work to a proud audience. These are moments where students realize what they’re capable of and how far they can go.
Community
You Belong Here
Shipley's Lower School is more than a place for your child to learn; it’s a community built on care, connection, and belonging. As a family, you’ll feel it right away—from the warmth of the teachers, staff, and other families, to the joy of being part of a larger PreK-12 community.
Character Education
Becoming Your Best Self
Starting in PreK, our focus on relationships and character education helps Shipley students learn how to identify and manage their emotions, navigate conflict, collaborate with others, and develop confidence.
At Shipley, we help students grow into kind, resilient, and self-aware young people through our weekly SEED (Social, Emotional, and Ethical Development) classes. These lessons give students space to talk about things like fairness, compassion, and problem-solving, as well as get involved in community and service-learning projects. Students learn to listen, lead, and care for their community.
SEED: Social, Emotional & Ethical Development
All Lower School students participate in weekly SEED classes, where they build self-awareness, empathy, and community through Shipley’s signature character education program.
Co-Curriculars
Creativity Beyond the Classroom
| Enrichment | ||
EnrichmentDoes your child want to learn chess, design crafts, or play a new sport? Encore Clubs offer students in PreK through Grade 5 enrichment opportunities for learning and discovering new passions beyond the typical school day.
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| Aftercare | ||
AftercareThe Later Gator aftercare program provides a safe setting where students can play, do homework, and spend time with friends and siblings from different grade levels after school. Later Gator is a popular part of the Shipley experience—not just a convenience for families, but a space that kids genuinely enjoy.
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| Arts | ||
| Private music lessons are offered after school and on campus for students in all grades year round. In the fall, fourth and fifth graders can participate in the annual Lower School musical. |
THERE'S MORE TO DISCOVER. |
| Your Shipley journey starts with a conversation. Learn about what makes us more than a school. |