Lower School Day
The LS school day is designed to cultivate independence in our 3- to 6-year old students as well as to foster their role as members of a community. The morning includes an uninterrupted work cycle — a fundamental aspect of Montessori education — which allows students the freedom to move about the prepared classroom environments, to interact with peers and to discover and choose work that interests them. Teachers spend this time carefully observing students, assessing their needs and gauging their readiness for new lessons and materials. There is time for individual or small-group lessons as well as time for class discussions and community meetings, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and cooperation, helping children learn the art of living in a world beyond home.
In order to best suit the needs of our students and their families, Lower School enrollment options include a choice between half days (8:45 to 11:45 AM) and full days (8:45 AM—3 PM). A variety of Extended Day options are also available for LS students before and after the regular school day to accommodate our families’ various childcare needs.
Regular School Day
Drop-off at 8:45 AM
The LS school day begins each morning at 8:45 a.m. with the teacher welcoming each student into the classroom. Students say their goodbyes at the door, enter on their own, and take care of their belongings—from taking off and hanging coats to putting away lunch boxes. It is our tradition to welcome LS students who have older siblings at WMS into the classroom at 8:30 a.m.
Uninterrupted Work Cycle
Once their things are put away, LS students enjoy the opportunity to explore the classroom and choose work that interests them. Students also spend this time engaging in one-on-one or small group lessons with the teacher.
Recess
All Lower School classes enjoy recess together outside on the Lower School playground as long as the weather is suitable.
Half Day Dismissal at 11:45 AM*
After recess, half-day children are dismissed from their classroom door following the same procedures as at drop-off — gathering their things independently before joining their parents/caregivers in the hall.
Wednesdays are always half-days for Lower School students, but there is an extended day option (WRAP) available as an alternative.
Lunch
On full days, Lower School students begin preparing for lunch around noon. Lower School classes enjoy lunch in their classrooms. Half-day students are also always welcome to stay for lunchtime and have a 12:30 p.m. dismissal.
Afternoon Work & Specials
After lunch, Lower School students have another work cycle as well as specials in music and physical education.
Full Day Dismissal at 3 PM
Full-day Lower School students are dismissed from their classroom door at 3 p.m. following the same procedures as at drop-off.
EXTENDED DAY OPTIONS
Morning Care 7:45—8:45 AM
Once LS students have completed their phase-in cycle and are comfortable with their transition to school, they may be enrolled in Morning Care, which is available Mondays through Fridays regularly and on an as-needed basis if there is space.
After Care 3—5 PM
Once LS students have completed their phase-in cycle, they may be enrolled in After Care, which is available Mondays through Fridays regularly and on an as-needed basis (if there is space).
Enrichment Offerings 3—5 PM
A variety of enrichment courses are offered throughout the year for Lower School students. Enrichment fees vary.
Check Back Soon for Fall 2023 Enrichment Offerings