An Overview
	Lower School is the first step on The Barnesville School’s "staircase" of lifelong learners. From the youngest students in Early Childhood to the more sophisticated Fourth graders, Lower School teachers educate these children, enjoying their many developmental stages and individual learning rates. The Lower School is divided into two "Pod" groupings; Pod A is made up of the children and faculty from Early Childhood through First grade, while Pod B consists of the students and teachers from Second through Fourth grades. The children participate in regular Pod meetings to celebrate birthdays, listen to stories, play games, and learn about healthy habits. They also participate in the school-wide Character and Values education program during Pod meetings.

	Curriculum
	From the time they start their day shaking hands with a teacher or administrator at 8:05 a.m. until the dismissal bell rings at 3:00 p.m., children are actively engaged in learning. The core curriculum includes Language Arts, Math, Science, Social Studies, Writing, Spanish, Art, Music, Library, Technology, and Physical Education. Teachers celebrate student successes, support their struggles, and encourage the development of everyone’s personal best. The boys and girls in Lower School frequently join the rest of the school at Cultural Arts assemblies, perform community service projects, and share fun times with their “buddy” class. School traditions, such as the Fall Family Picnic, Grandparents’ Day, School Spirit Week, holiday shows, Jump Rope for Heart, and Arts and Academics Night, help to bring us together into a caring community of learners. Select a grade to learn more and to see the specific curriculum:

	Beyond the Classroom
	Lower School students have many opportunities for hands-on exploration and experiences. They learn through play in the classroom, on the playground, and in the gym. Students are encouraged to work cooperatively in groups, as well as to become independent learners. Children examine and think critically about the world around them every day. Field trips are an integral part of the Barnesville experience, enhancing classroom instruction. Lower School field trips include:  Going to Pizza Hut to build understanding of the letter "p" in Pre-K Picking pumpkins while learning about fall in Kindergarten Visiting Clara Barton’s home and headquarters as part of a study of her life in First grade Visiting the Baltimore Museum of Industry for hands-on activities to learn about Simple Machines in Second grade Taking a trip to the African Art Museum in Third grade while learning about Africa Touring Schifferstadt Museum in Frederick as part of a study of early American life in Fourth grade Classes are small, fun, and creative! We invite families to come and experience what Lower School has to offer.