Our Lower School
There is a tremendous joy and sense of achievement among our Kindergarten through Grade Five students as the Lower School curriculum cultivates essential skills and kindles the process of learning. This has made our Lower School a renowned setting for the nurturing yet rigorous education at the heart of BWL's mission.
The Lower School Curriculum
Determined to retain small class sizes and pay close attention to the specific abilities of each child, teachers in the Lower School ensure that students' early experiences guide them towards a love of learning. Teachers tailor small, ability-based math and reading groups to match the learning styles of every student.
Innovative academics and extensive extracurricular activities support students' growth and encourage open-mindedness. The approach to each academic discipline is age-appropriate, as students discover the wonders of:
- Reading
- Mathematics
- Science
- History
- World Language
- The Arts
- Physical Fitness
Additional subjects and programs are introduced as students progress through the division:
- Peer Relations Program
- Let Grow Project
- Instrumental Music Instruction (Grade 4 & 5)
- Robotics (Grades 4 & 5)
- Written Out Loud (Grade 5)
Additionally, all Lower School students visit the library where they develop research skills and fuel their excitement for reading.
Building Confidence and Independence
BWL has partnered with the Let Grow Project to provide the necessary opportunities for students to take ownership of their own success to develop confident, capable, and resilient young people.
Hands-On Approach to STEAM Learning
Lower School students are supervised in the utilization of traditional and emerging technologies for information and research. In addition to weekly computer science classes, proficiency in all subjects and classes is enhanced through the use of technology. Keyboarding, word processing, and appropriate Internet usage become part of our students' regular and responsible routine.
In the 2024-2025 school year, BWL will open our first New York Sun Works hydroponic and aquaponic farm in the Lower School Science Lab. This farm will be utilized by all students in Kindergarten through 8th grade to learn essential knowledge in biology, sustainability, and agriculture.
The arts program is designed to develop a passion for creative expression, through exposure to painting, drawing, singing, dancing and theater arts throughout the Lower School experience.