Lower School - Setting the

Foundation for Success

Off and Running

A Commitment to Character Education

Equally important is our commitment to character building through the reinforcement of traditional values. We have a formalized program of character education which focuses on nine monthly virtues.

We believe that the incorporation of virtues such as friendship, courage, thankfulness, charity, courage and stewardship are as important to forming successful human beings as academic excellence. The values that Swain calls "traditional" transcend the boundaries imposed by culture, religion or ethnicity.

The Lower School Program includes the following core subjects:

Art Computer Skills English Language Arts Library Math Music Phonics Physical Education Reading Science Social Studies Spanish Spelling Theatre Arts Writing Enrichment

Besides these basics, children in the Lower School are treated to a diverse selection of enrichment activities within the greater community. Field trips are used to augment classroom lessons at every grade level. At various times Lower School students visit the Pool Wildlife Sanctuary, the Lenni Lenape Museum, Symphony Hall, the Trexler Park Preserve and the Weller Center, among dozens of other local and regional destinations.

Extracurricular Activities

Lower School students can participate in many extracurricular activities designed to expose them to new experiences and let them "test their wings".

Students in third grade can begin to participate in the instrumental music programs, and third- and fourth graders join the fifth grade in the Lower School Chorus.

After school programs offer a wide range of opportunities, such as dancing, ice skating, cooking, science fun, cheerleading, and learning to be a mascot.

Faculty

Students in the Lower School are taught by highly qualified faculty and accredited specialists, many of whom hold advanced degrees. A full time school counselor also is on hand to direct our Character Education program, and to help students acclimate when necessary. Class sizes range from 11 to 16 students. In keeping with our philosophy, class sizes will continue to be limited to maximize the potential for student/teacher interaction.

To receive more information about Swain's Lower School, please complete our Information Request Form or contact the Swain Admissions office at 610-433-4542, ext.119.

Check out the Swain Kids web site for individual teacher pages and student activities.