Inquiry, Innovation, and Impact

At Mount Vernon, Lower School, students in Kindergarten through Grade 5 embody inquiry, innovation, and impact with every step of their journey. From the moment they start their day, their natural curiosity is sparked, their creativity flourishes and their knowledge deepens through meaningful, real-world connections. Students not only master core literacies like reading, writing, and numeracy in their classrooms, but that learning is applied and supported by Connection classes and teams as well. By weaving core academics through hands-on projects and engaging transdisciplinary experiences, young learners are building the literacies, skills, attributes, and relationships to thrive as college-ready, globally competitive, and engaged citizen leaders.

Here is a snapshot of what learning looks like and how it comes to life in the Lower School.

Kindergarten: Ecosystems Through Puppetry

Kindergarteners gather in flexible learning studios, collaborating on puppet designs that represent animals in various ecosystems. Creating puppets in Visual Arts with Ms. Bruno, students learn about plants, animals, and climate in their classrooms and in the science lab with Mrs. Fennelly as well. They embrace the mantra, “Start with Questions,” asking why ecosystems function the way they do and how animals adapt to their environments. This interdisciplinary approach builds a foundational understanding of science while fostering creativity.

Grade 1: Light, Sound, and Emotions

First grade students embark on an adventure in light, sound, and emotion. From prisms in the science lab to constructing designs in the Maker Studio, students will wield tools and craft strategies to bridge gaps across distances, exploring how light and sound connect, communicate, and connect to our emotions. By “Lead From Where You Are,” students will learn to build for others, using their creativity to design experiences that foster connection and understanding. Students will craft an immersive artistic experience, playing with color and sound alongside Ms. Bruno and Mrs. Jones.

Grade 2: Ancient Greece Comes Alive

Second graders bring history to life as they construct models of Athens, complete with olive trees, the Parthenon, and Mount Olympus. In PE, they practice for the Grade 2 Olympic event, running races and competing in the long jump. Through their collaborative projects and athletic events, they embody “Help me see what you see,” sharing their unique perspectives and engaging their peers and families in their learning process. These activities culminate in a parent showcase where students take pride in presenting their work, exemplifying the joy of learning through shared experiences.

Grade 3: Life as a Viking

Third grade classrooms buzz with excitement as students dive into Viking culture. Using research and storytelling, third graders are designing intricate longship prows adorned with symbolic designs in Visual Arts with Ms. Perez. Students will be designing longships while they reimagine what a Viking feast would have been like. By reading and writing about Vikings, , they engage in critical discussions comparing and contrasting life long ago. By embracing “Be Brave to Try and Try Again,” they persevere through challenges in their research and creative work, building resilience and confidence in their abilities.

Grade 4: Revolutionary War Debate

In fourth grade, students are learning all about the road to the revolution. Students will read and write about its causes, major events, and key figures of the American Revolution. History comes alive through preparations of an interactive debate about the American Revolutionary War. Through support during Performing Arts with Mrs. Lower and MVXperts, students will learn how to make a compelling argument. Students, embodying historical figures, will passionately present their perspectives. These debates hone research, writing, and public speaking skills, while deepening their understanding of the complexities of history. Through this process, they exemplify “Grow & Give,” sharing their knowledge and insights to enrich the learning of their peers.

Grade 5: Impact Summits—Empowering Change

Fifth graders are immersed in their Impact Summits. With purpose statements in hand, they conduct interviews, research global challenges, and prepare for personalized expeditions. Meeting weekly with Mrs. Hudson and Mrs. Ahern, students learn to write driving questions, develop a project plan, and conduct research. These summits showcase their ability to connect learning to real-world issues, demonstrating leadership and a commitment to effecting change. By embracing “Have Fun,” they find joy and fulfillment in the process of tackling big questions and making a difference.

Living the Mission Every Day

In the Lower School, every moment is an opportunity to embody inquiry, innovation, and impact. Through meaningful and layered learning experiences, our students discover their passions, deepen their knowledge, and prepare to make a difference in the world. Learning doesn’t just happen—it inspires, empowers, and transforms. Guided by our mantras—”Start with Questions,” “Lead from Where You Are,” “Help Me See What You See,” “Grow & Give,” “Be Brave to Try and Try Again,” and “Have Fun”—Lower School students are shaping a future full of curiosity, creativity, and impact.