Social Studies
The kindergarten curriculum begins with self examination and an exploration of the classroom, Potomac School, and local communities. Students begin to build their understanding of identity as an individual and as a member of the greater community. The first grade curriculum focuses on helping students to build classroom communities by sharing about themselves and learning about their classmates. Students explore what makes them unique and discover similarities and differences they have with their peers and the wider community. The second grade social studies curriculum includes a year long focus on identity development that builds on the language and experiences from kindergarten and first grade. This identity work is crucial as the students begin to look at cultures from the past and present that are possibly different from their own.
Third grade students continue the study of American history during the 18th and 19th centuries. Indigenous tribes, both past and present, are highlighted as the students follow the Corps of Discovery’s journey. After studying the history of each region, students make connections from the past to the present day.
Art
In Lower School art, students explore, design, and create, using techniques from drawing and painting to collage, sculpture, ceramics, bookmaking, and printmaking.
Language Arts
The Lower School Language Arts program is taught through the Workshop model for both reading and writing. All six elements of the literacy diet are targeted through Language Arts instruction: phonemic awareness, phonics, comprehension, fluency, vocabulary, and writing.
Library
During their twice weekly library classes, a teaching librarian shares a wide range of children's literature, from wordless books to biographies and from emergent reader titles to complex chapter books.
Mathematics
Potomac uses Math in Focus (MIF), a program based on Singapore Math model. The program focuses on an in-depth understanding of mathematical concepts and problem solving.
Music
The Lower School Music Program is built upon the Orff-Schulwerk approach, which uses speech, singing, movement, and barred instruments to discover and develop the innate musicianship of children.
Physical Education and Health
The overall goal of the physical education program is to motivate every student to participate in physical activities leading to healthy, lifetime habits.
Science
In Lower School, students learn through observation, experimentation, exploration, and a variety of engineering design challenges.
Social Emotional Learning and Guidance
Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is woven throughout the students’ day to build a strong school and classroom community.
Social Studies
Students begin to build their understanding of identity as an individual and as a member of the greater community.
Technology
As the use of technology transitions from toy to learning tool, students are exposed to a wide range of applications and resources.
“Potomac’s faculty and staff are talented, committed, and professional. Being here is more than just a job to them. I see it every day in the Lower School. Our teachers and staff care deeply about their students and the work that we do together.”
Dr. Donnette Echols, Lower School Head