Lower School (K-5)
Bement’s lower schoolers are usually seen eagerly getting out of their cars each morning, greeting familiar adults, and happily joining friends as they walk to class. Occasionally they forget to say goodbye when they’re being dropped off, but in some ways we consider that a good thing because it tells us just how excited they are to get to school.
Each student is well-known at Bement. They are greeted by name by a wide range of teachers, members of the leadership team, dining services, maintenance staff, the school counselor, and upper school students. Social-emotional wellness is paramount at Bement, so any member of the community is ready to support a child with problem-solving or to just have a friendly conversation. Bement’s core values of compassion, integrity, resilience, and respect guide our interactions with one another and set the tone for our days at school.
Bement learners are naturally curious. Visitors to classrooms see children deeply engaged in their learning. They participate eagerly, seek to know more, and support one another in their endeavors. Students have the opportunity to experience learning in a wide variety of formats, often learning by doing, taking deep dives into subject matter, and pursuing topics of interest to them. Their learning is also supported by teacher expertise, research supported curriculum, and meaningful assessments.
Every day at Bement also includes engaging experiences in the fine arts, physical education, and plenty of time for outdoor play and exploration, all guided by teachers and with many opportunities for building social skills as well as deepening friendships. In today’s busy and complicated world, there’s a sense of the preservation of childhood in Bement’s lower school. Our beautiful and expansive campus lets children develop a sense of independence, our family-style lunches allow students of all ages to come together during the day, and our daily morning meetings provide a strong sense of community togetherness. Bement’s lower school uniquely combines the joys of childhood with preparation for learning and living successfully in the 21st century.