Frequently Asked Questions About the School Day
Beginning School
Does my student need to be able to read prior to enrolling in the Beginning School?
Students do not need to know how to read to enroll. Through our balanced literacy approach to reading and writing, students build on their abilities and strengths. Reading, writing, and phonics are integrated through a variety of materials, experiences, and activities.
Does my student need to be potty trained to enroll?
Yes, students need to be potty trained before enrollment in any of our Beginning School programs.
How will the teacher handle my student’s separation anxiety at morning drop-off?
Our teachers are experienced in dealing with separation anxiety. Once a student is dropped off, the teacher will work with the students to assure them that they are cared for and safe. We promise that your student will not be sad for long after class begins!
Will my student be exposed to diversity of thought?
Rowland Hall believes that diversity strengthens our community. Rowland Hall is committed to diversity and the promotion of an academic community in which each member feels connected, comfortable, respected, and included. Parents are invited to share their own faith traditions and cultural practices with our students at various times during the school year.
How do you keep the Beginning School students safe from intruders when there are low fences and open doors?
Rowland Hall has taken effective precautions to protect our community through live camera feed, locked main doors, and faculty and staff training to act upon a stranger entering the campus. Any visitor (including parents) needs to ring the camera doorbell for entrance to enter a main building. Our safety protocols were verified by a school security firm in a safety audit in 2019.
Do you practice lockdown procedures, and how often?
We follow Utah state law and practice fire, earthquake, and lockdown drills several times per year.
Lower School
Is academic support available should my student need it?
After careful evaluation through classwork and assessments, should a student need additional assistance, our Director of Learning Services would be consulted to meet with the student and parents for an evaluation and to map out a plan of action for student success.
What math program do you use in the curriculum?
Rowland Hall uses Bridges for our math curriculum which focuses on deep understanding of mathematical concepts, proficiency of skills while building on the ability to solve complex problems.
How much homework can a student expect in the Lower School?
Rowland Hall believes homework establishes patterns of responsibility and successful study habits. The amount of work varies by grade level and by project, but the general rule of thumb is 10 minutes of homework in first grade, increasing by 10 minutes with each grade level and no more than 50-60 minutes of homework in fifth grade.
Does my student need previous Spanish experience to be successful in the Spanish program?
Our Spanish program is based on community learning, together with the use of visual resources, songs, and more. Due to COVID-19, learning this year is slightly different, with students meeting synchronously once per week and asynchronously twice per week. Asynchronous learning is self-paced, and additional resources and materials are offered should a student need additional support.
How much recess do students get in a typical day?
Rowland Hall believes recess is a valuable time for students to clear their minds and get their wiggles out! Morning recess happens with snack time and then a second recess period happens at lunchtime.
What extracurricular activities are available to students?
After school activities are limited this year due to COVID-19. We are currently offering yoga, Mandarin Chinese, recorder and instrumental music lessons, private art lessons, and computer programming.
Can my student enroll in skiing?
Rowland Hall is home to the internationally acclaimed Rowmark Ski Academy. Rowmark offers an All Mountain Rippers program for students in third through fifth grades. The program is geared towards the confident skier comfortable with basic ski terrain. It is not a learn to ski program. For more information, we will connect you with our Head coach of the Junior Program, and information is communicated at the beginning of the school year.
When do team sports begin?
Team sports begin in Middle School, however, various sport options are offered in the Lower School as after school extracurricular activities.
Is there a school bus from Park City to Rowland Hall?
Transportation is offered for a fee for families living in Park City. Students may begin riding the bus in first grade. Read more about our transportation program.