Welcome to Lower School at SCH Academy

MATHEMATICS

In the Lower School, mathematics is taught as a language for thinking that equips students with strong numeracy, problem-solving skills, and the confidence to apply -them in any context. Across every grade, they learn to approach challenges with logic, flexibility, and perseverance, developing a toolkit of strategies that extend beyond the classroom. Our core program, Math in Focus, builds deep foundational skills. By cultivating fluency and flexible thinking, they learn to analyze problems from multiple perspectives, choose effective approaches, and use mathematics as a powerful tool for
understanding and engaging with the world around them.

Lessons follow the Concrete–Pictorial–Abstract progression, ensuring that students first experience concepts physically, then represent them visually, and finally apply them symbolically. Through whole-class discussions, small-group explorations, and independent practice, they learn to express their reasoning clearly and accurately. As a complement to classroom instruction, students may use adaptive tools such as Happy Numbers, IXL, and ALEKS for individualized reinforcement and practice.

Learning science is something students do, not something that is done to them. In learning science, students describe objects and events, ask questions, acquire knowledge, construct explanations of natural phenomena, test those explanations in many different ways, and communicate their ideas to others.

National Science Education Standards

music

Program Goals:

» Engage every student in rich, collaborative musical experiences through singing, movement, dance, instrumental play, spoken word, and dramatic expression.
» Develop musical understanding as a unique and meaningful way to know, perceive, and interpret the world.
» Celebrate cultural heritage and community by exploring a diverse repertoire of songs and musical traditions.
» Highlight interdisciplinary connections by showing music’s relevance across all areas of learning and development.

visual arts 

At SCH Academy, art is active and playful, with children working with their hands, experimenting freely, and discovering the joy of turning ideas into tangible creations. They explore a range of media, from drawing, painting, and printmaking to sculpture, ceramics, digital art, and photography, often taking inspiration from the outdoors by using natural materials, studying patterns in nature, or sketching in the Wissahickon.

The program blends making with the study of global artists and traditions, fostering visual literacy and appreciation for diverse perspectives. As they work independently and collaboratively, students learn to honor their creative voice and respect the expression of others. Whether shaping clay into pinch pots or creating a digital composition in Adobe, they experience firsthand how art connects imagination, skill, and personal expression.

Learn more about CEL

outdoor program

Muddy boots lining the hallways are a familiar sight at SCH! Beginning in 2nd grade, the Outdoor program immerses students in the beauty and challenge of the
Wissahickon watershed. Through hikes of increasing difficulty, children come to know its trails, wildlife, and seasonal changes as intimately as their own playgrounds.

Time in nature encourages students to focus on the world and people around them, opening their eyes, ears, and minds. Second graders participate in their first Bike-Hike and test their skills on the rock wall at a local climbing gym. In 3rd grade, adventures expand to include a trip to Hawk Mountain and kayaking on local waters. Fourth graders assist with trail maintenance and develop outdoor survival skills, such as fire building, shelter construction, and navigation, developing teamwork and leadership along the way. Across these experiences, students build courage, resilience, and a
deep respect for the land that will stay with them for years to come.