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Lower SchoolA Letter from the Heads of Lower School WELCOME TO THE MPH LOWER SCHOOL! The Lower School operates on a set of principles known as the “5 Cs” – cooperation, consideration, confidence, concern, and courtesy. These principles permeate the Lower School experience. Children are taught how to communicate with others, how to operate as part of a community, how to negotiate and solve problems diplomatically, how to show respect and compassion for others, and how to use appropriate manners throughout the day. Even our youngest children are encouraged to become good citizens, taking an active role in their many communities, from family and school to their hometowns and the world. The core classes in the Lower School are team-taught. Our faculty and staff challenge and nurture each student, always mindful of the varied learning styles in their classrooms. Children are encouraged to attain their “personal best” and individual accomplishments are celebrated. Recognizing that most learning occurs in the course of active participation, teachers help students stretch to take that next leap and to participate in a curriculum that goes far beyond the rote or remote, but, instead, brings ideas and concepts to life in the classroom. Through our thematic approach to curriculum, children are able to see the connections among otherwise isolated subject matter; they explore ideas, discover civilizations and cultures of the past and of the present; they make predictions about the future. Lower School encore classes (French or Spanish, art, vocal music, dance, library, and physical education) enable students to develop their natural intelligences, talents, and creativity. Taught by specialty teachers, the encore classes are integrated into the overall Lower School curriculum, beginning in Pre-Kindergarten. Lower School students are also actively involved in the School’s rich performing arts tradition. As early as Pre-Kindergarten, students have the opportunity to participate in the Suzuki music program, and once in Kindergarten, all students perform in the Lower School’s Winter Musical. These opportunities not only introduce students to the performing arts, but also build confidence and teach communication skills among even our youngest community members. A strong connection between home and school is essential to the MPH experience. Teachers communicate regularly with parents through formal and informal channels and are always available to talk or meet with a parent. Lower School parents are encouraged to share their expertise or family culture with their child’s class, enriching everyone’s learning. School-wide family events, such as our Back to School Picnic, Grandparents Day, and Red White Day, and grade-level family gatherings offer additional opportunities for every family to share in their child’s school experience. Joline Hemminger Kristin Hempel
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