Lower School
Joy, curiosity, and intentional design drive the Harley Lower School, where play forms the foundation for lifelong learning.
In Harley’s Lower School, we provide intentional opportunities and environments for your child to develop and grow their cognitive, social, and emotional skills. Your child will learn in settings where they feel comfortable taking risks, stretching their skills, and connecting with other students. We understand the relationship between students and teachers is paramount to how children grow and flourish as they learn new concepts and hone their skills. We also know that children learn as much from each other as they do from their teachers, which is the strategy behind our flexible groupings, allowing children to learn with like-learners while also developing an appreciation for students who think differently.
We respect that all children are already scientists, mathematicians, authors, artists, and researchers. They are naturally curious and approach the world with wonder. Students in the Lower School are given door-opening experiences to expand their understanding of the world, build their capacity as independent and collaborative learners, and refine their skills. Your child will develop an understanding of who they are in the community: individuals with value and unique worth who have a responsibility to those around them. Cooperation, empathy, and collaboration are essential elements of all aspects of the Lower School.
The partnership between families and Harley is at the heart of the Lower School and your student’s stability and success. Our weekly assemblies provide regular touchpoints for all members of the Lower School (families included) to gain insight into specific projects and discoveries, as well as affirming the connections among and between grade levels.
The best way to understand the Lower School is to see everyone in action! You are warmly invited to come in to walk the halls and see the dynamic learning environments that make every part of the school day a moment of discovery. I look forward to welcoming you on campus soon!
Dr. Terry Smith P '19, '21
Lower School Head
Lower School Sparks a Passion for Learning
At Harley, we ignite a love of learning in a nurturing and joyful environment (Nursery-Grade 4). Our unique approach blends:
Hands-on Learning: Students explore through projects, thematic lessons, and outdoor experiences.
Social-Emotional Development: We foster curiosity, creativity, and respect for diverse perspectives.
Academic Excellence: A challenging curriculum prepares students for future success as lifelong learners.
Why Choose Harley's Lower School?
Developmentally Appropriate: Our curriculum respects the developmental needs of each age group.
Small Class Sizes: Experienced educators provide personalized attention and build strong relationships with students.
Thematic Integration: Subjects like math, science, and social studies are brought to life through engaging themes.
Specialist Integration: Art, music, world languages, and other content area specialists enrich the learning experience.
Beautiful Campus: We maximize time in our natural setting to foster a love of exploration and discovery.
Harley Highlights
- Hands-on, experiential learning
- Emphasis on critical thinking and problem-solving
- Essential opportunities for collaboration and teamwork
- Technology integrated throughout the curriculum (including coding beginning in Kindergarten)
- Healthy meals and snacks included (with dietary options available)
- Financial Aid available
What We Believe In
Promoting Inquiry: We spark curiosity and encourage students to ask questions.
Nurturing Independence: We empower students to become self-directed learners.
Building Confidence: We celebrate individual strengths and support risk taking.
Fostering Collaboration: We cultivate a sense of community and teamwork.
Lifelong Learning: We instill a love of learning that lasts a lifetime.
Harley: Where Students Thrive
Our graduates are well prepared for success in middle school and beyond, with a strong foundation in academics, social-emotional skills, and a lifelong love of learning.
Please call (585) 277-1113 or email enrollment@harleyschool.org to learn more about our enrollment process.