Rowland Hall Beginning School - 2 years

Beginning School

Experience the Beginning School Walk around the Beginning School and you will see happy children fully engaged in the moment, in their learning. Talk to their teachers and you will sense the passion of consummate professionals totally dedicated to their work, their calling. Parents are partners with the school from the start, whether sharing time in the classroom or attending a parenting class for parents of little ones.

No wonder magic happens here.

“We want our children to experience success and to develop a real love of learning,” explains Carol Blackwell, Principal of the Beginning School. “It’s a joy working with our phenomenal teachers and getting to know our wonderful parents, who bring many different perspectives. Diversity is something we value because we live in a diverse world.”

Tailored to Growth

From the 2PreK children through kindergarten, the Beginning School incorporates themes, projects and play experiences into the flexible curriculum, while acknowledging the special interests and skill level of each child. The tailored approach helps each child discover the joy of learning.

On the Importance of Community

Beginning School service learning focuses on responsibility and community membership. Teachers guide students in discussing what it means to be responsible for belongings, cubby space and classrooms, and they learn to support each other through respectful behavior. Our youngest students also benefit from the seasoned advice and special friendship of a Lower School “buddy.”

Learning Looks Like Play

Our whole child approach recognizes each child’s need for support and encouragement. Hands-on learning provides the blocks that build mastery of math, science, reading, and writing skills. Music class demonstrations, art, creative movement, physical education, nature yard investigations, and visits from special guests enliven the school year.

Surrounded by Good Books

A balanced literacy approach to reading and writing is used that builds on students’ individual abilities and styles. Reading, writing and phonics are integrated by using a variety of materials and experiences based on activities. The literature rich Beginning School lays the foundation for a love of reading and curiosity about the world.

Expanded Learning, Expanding Worlds

Students in 3PreK through kindergarten spend time with our specialty teachers, expanding learning outside their own classroom. In physical education they are introduced to a variety of movement experiences that support overall motor skill development through individual and group exercises. Children learn musical concepts that will be expanded upon in the Lower School music curriculum and enjoy creatively moving to music. Spanish vocabulary is introduced through poems, songs, and interactive games. Students develop an "ear” for Spanish speech patterns and sounds, and an interest in the language they will continue in the Lower School. The Library Media Center becomes a familiar place where students interact with literature through discussion. Students explore computer software geared for young children through open-ended explorations, problem solving, and collaborative learning. The kindergarten chapel program introduces children to the richness of multiple religions traditions.