This year’s Interim program demonstrated what is possible when students connect across divisions, bringing Lower and Upper School learners into shared experiences that are both purposeful and deeply engaging. At the center of this work was Helen Hudgens, Lower School... Read More
The intentional integration of technology begins long before students receive their first personal devices. In the Lower School, digital learning is carefully sequenced to align with developmental readiness, blending hands-on, tactile learning with thoughtful digital exposure. “Since COVID, we’ve been... Read More
Third graders and kindergarteners teamed to spread some cheer to the Class of 2025 alumni, creating care packages filled with letters, treats, and thoughtful keepsakes. “G3 students wrote personal letters and notes of encouragement to the Class of 2025 alumni,”... Read More
At Mount Vernon, learning begins long before students enter a classroom. The Frontier, the school’s intentionally designed natural play environment, is a cornerstone of the Lower Campus experience. Designed to invite children to wonder, wander, and grow, the Frontier supports... Read More
When a producer from Harpo Productions called Molly Hudson, Head of Lower School, to ask if she’d like to be a guest on Oprah Winfrey’s new podcast with Adam Grant, she didn’t believe it was real. It was. The episode,... Read More
Ever wonder what happens on a Late Start Day? When Mount Vernon students arrive a little later on Late Start Days, something exciting is happening behind the scenes. While learners ease into their morning, our faculty and staff are already... Read More
Self Expression through Street Art How do you capture the attention of fifth graders in their final year of Lower School? For Art Teacher Ms. Dianne Johnson, the answer was simple: create something bold, meaningful, and hands-on. Partnering with Ms.... Read More
At Mount Vernon, athletics is more than competition—it’s connection, growth, and belonging. That vision takes root earlier than most people realize, thanks to Mustangs in Training (MIT), a Lower School athletics initiative designed to give students an opportunity to explore,... Read More
For Lower School Science teacher Eileen Fennelly, the outdoors is more than a classroom extension—it’s a catalyst for deeper learning, self-regulation, and community connection. This year, she has launched a series of grade-specific recurring expeditions designed to immerse students in... Read More
At Mount Vernon, learning is not confined to textbooks or classrooms—it is designed with purpose, for people. Our students are taught to ask questions, uncover needs, and create solutions that make experiences better. This is the heart of design thinking:... Read More