Lower School

Building Skills and Confidence

Lower School is where curiosity, creativity and confidence grow. With a hands-on approach that brings learning to life, children engage with teachers, collaborate in groups and participate in integrated learning opportunities. The playfulness that starts in the Montessori program allows them to stay joyful while experiencing new concepts, challenges and friendships. After Grade 4, students transition to Middle School prepared for what’s ahead.

Our Five Pillars

Our mission is to develop leaders of character across five pillars: spiritual, academic, physical, social and artistic.

girl receiving communion — The Spiritual Pillar
Between attending religion classes, engaging in prayer services and participating in volunteer opportunities, children explore what it means to live a faith-based life. Our mission is to develop leaders of character who make a difference in the world.

*"It is important to know each child and encourage them to work hard, be kind and use their gifts and talents. The Hallmarks of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur are present in all that happens here."*
**– Mrs. Ceil Johnson, Retired Grade 1 Teacher**

girl and boy in classroom — The Academic Pillar
Professional learning specialists partner with teachers to ensure students are progressing appropriately. By applying a data-based approach using pre- and post-unit assessments, these educators are positioned to adapt instruction for maximum impact on student growth.

*“I hope that my students will remember having fun, working on enjoyable activities and projects, and being appreciated and valued as the wonderful individuals that they are.”*
**– Mrs. Julia Almaguer, Math Specialist**

boys soccer team laughing — The Physical Pillar
Physical play, especially outdoors, is always a favorite of students during the school day. In addition to top quality playground facilities, students enjoy PE class where they learn motor skills, social skills and sportsmanship.

"My philosophy is to introduce lifetime activities to students, so they have many options to help them live a healthy lifestyle. Competition is healthy and allows students to put their best foot forward and push themselves both physically and mentally."
**– Mr. Cary Daniel, Physical Education Teacher**

students doing an outdoor activity — The Social Pillar
Traits like gratitude, empathy, respect and humility show up in everyday life through the relationships that children build and grow. Capstone projects guide children to engage in action-based assignments that combine their classroom learning with opportunities for leadership development.

*“Summit not only educates academically, but also encourages my child to grow into a caring, loving person as well.”*
– **Lower School Parent, 2022-23**

students performing in chapel — The Artistic Pillar
Combining art appreciation, solid writing skills and critical thinking is the key to Summit’s longstanding tradition of winning the Jerry Tollifson Art Criticism Open. It’s not unusual for Summit students to sweep these awards, and it’s all due to art education beginning in Grade 1.

“I hope my students learn new art terminology, techniques and cultural influences they can build upon. The ability to see student growth from year to year is one of my favorite things about my role.”
**– Mrs. Hilary Carvitti, Art Teacher**

Meet The Teachers

Highly-trained faculty, state-of-the-art resources and innovative curriculum have resulted in distinctive programs that make The Summit Country Day School's opportunities unique.

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Mike Johnson

Lower School Director

Julia Almaguer

Math Specialist, Math Teacher

Colleen Barnes

Second Grade Teacher

Hilary Carvitti

Art Teacher

Cammie Corder-Nelson

Head Librarian

Donna Doran

Music Teacher, IGknight Teacher

Allison Finkleman

Third Grade Teacher

Megan Kline

Fourth Grade Teacher

Elizabeth Ko

School Counselor

Martha Rich

Religion Teacher

Questions & Answers

What grades are served by Summit's lower School?

Is Extended care offered?

What is covered in the Lower School curriculum?

what do summit parents and teachers say about the lower school program?

"Educating the whole child is something I think Summit Lower School does better than most schools. Each year the students build through the character education program."
– Lower School Parent, 2022-23

"I feel very blessed to work in a place that is dedicated to developing the whole child. I use data to drive my instruction in the classroom. The use of pre-tests and post tests not only help me see learning clearly, but it helps me individualize my instruction for students who are ready for enrichment right away."
– Mrs. Kristin Baker, Math Teacher

"It is wonderful to watch students present to their classmates and at mass. These are lifelong skills and are hugely important for confidence and communication."
– Lower School Parent, 2022-23

"As a school counselor, I'm here to eliminate barriers to students' success. When I can help a student calmly look at a problem, identify possible solutions, foresee potential outcomes and make a choice, I am teaching a skill that is relevant far beyond the classroom."
– Mrs. Elizabeth Ko, Counselor

"Summit Lower School helps each student understand their strengths and weaknesses and helps them get where they need to be to experience success."
– Lower School Parent, 2022-23

"I want to inspire children to be well-rounded, educated and loving citizens of the world. It is important to teach children the importance of helping others and making the world a better place for everyone."
– Mrs. Martha Rich, Grade 2 Teacher

"The Summit Lower School is a welcoming and nurturing environment. My children have all felt known, loved, and supported academically."
– Lower School Parent, 2022-23

The Summit Difference

Admission

Email us to request a call from Lower and Middle School Admissions Counselor Meghan Byrne.

View opportunities to visit the Lower School.

Learn about the Lower School application process.

Request more information.