Lower School (Grades 1-4)

In Grades 1–4 at The Woods, Your Child Will Thrive

In Grades 1–4 at The Woods, your child will build a strong academic foundation, begin a second language, and grow into a confident, caring member of the community — all in classes small enough that no one gets lost in the shuffle. We channel students' natural curiosity and enthusiasm into a curriculum that emphasizes learning, community engagement, and developing the skills to be caring, confident, and responsible individuals. Our teachers know your child by name, by learning style, and by what makes them light up — and they teach accordingly.

"Our daughter has thrived in Lower School — the teachers know exactly how she learns, and the small class size means she's never just one of many. The world language program has been a wonderful surprise too."
— Lower School Parent

World Language: Early Language Learning in Grade 1
Students begin world language study in Grade 1, focusing on listening and speaking skills through interactive songs, poems, and games. These early experiences build confidence in communication, cultural awareness, and the joy of exploring new languages.

STEAM & Academic Rigor: Meeting Every Child Where They Are
Math instruction is differentiated to meet each child where they are, and Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) are woven seamlessly throughout the curriculum — from hands-on science investigations to early coding and problem-solving challenges. Project-Based Learning (PBL) brings these subjects together, giving students real-world problems to investigate and solve, building critical thinking and collaboration alongside core skills. We believe rigor and joy aren't opposites: our goal is a child who is both challenged and confident — exploring, experimenting, and connecting ideas across subjects, never bored and never overwhelmed.

Guidance: Social-Emotional Health and Character Development
Our dedicated guidance program supports students' social-emotional growth, helping them develop self-awareness, empathy, and resilience. Students learn essential life skills, including respect, kindness, cooperation, and how to be a good friend. Guidance lessons complement academic learning by teaching children how to navigate challenges, communicate effectively, and make thoughtful decisions.

Service Learning: Developing Compassion and Responsibility
Community service is an essential part of our Lower School experience. For example, Grade 1 students participate in projects such as collecting books for the Christ Child Society, fostering empathy, responsibility, and a lifelong commitment to helping others.

After-School Enrichment: Supporting Growth Beyond the Classroom
Our after-school programs, including Study Hall and a variety of enrichment activities, support academic growth, social development, and personal interests. Students can explore new passions, build friendships, and continue learning in a fun, safe environment.

A Holistic Approach to Learning
The Woods Lower School places special emphasis on literacy, mathematics, arts, and the sciences, in small classes that mean your child is known, not just taught. Exploration and discovery are at the heart of our program, helping students develop initiative, flexibility, and independence. Through collaborative projects, group activities, and guidance lessons, children learn to communicate, cooperate, and solve problems while cultivating empathy, respect, and a lifelong love of learning.

By choosing The Woods Academy, families provide their children with more than just an education — they invest in a Catholic elementary education that nurtures curiosity, character, and confidence for years to come.