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Lower School

Building character that will last a lifetime.

Lower School

During their Lower School years at San Domenico, students will master fundamental skills and gain knowledge in all of the core academic subjects, but we believe there’s more to an exceptional education. Through our very intentional approach, San Domenico students continuously develop their character in tandem with their academic growth.

At SD our educational philosophy is deeply imbued with our core values of study, reflection, community, and service. These values guide our student-centered classrooms and our commitment to developing habits of mind in our youngest students that will serve them throughout their K through 12 years here at SD, and out in the world at large. We nurture and foster our students' natural sense of inquiry and curiosity about the world around them, in a vibrant learning community.

Lower School News

Spooky Season, Panther Style

Panther Nation showed up in full costume! From our festive parade and bus driver costumes to pumpkin carving, haunted houses and costume contests, Halloween at San Domenico was one to remember.

Growing Community at Our Annual Garden Fair

Every fall, we gather for one of San Domenico’s most vibrant community traditions—our annual Garden Fair—a celebration that beautifully reflects our shared values of sustainability, community, and joyful learning.

Through Lines That Shape Us

Across the Lower School experience, these distinctive programs serve as continuous elements of a San Domenico education. Each supports the development of critical skills and mindsets that grow in depth and complexity as students advance through the Lower School. Together, these hallmark programs prepare students for success in Middle School and beyond, academically, socially, and as thoughtful members of their communities.
 

Curriculum Overview

Creativity takes center stage in the Lower School, where students explore new interests, learn to take creative risks, and discover the joy of self-expression.

Our curriculum develops students’ critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and strong numerical foundations.

Our physical education program encourages students to discover the joy of movement and physical well-being.

Across all grades, explicit instruction in reading strategies, writing skills, and fluency helps students become thoughtful, enthusiastic communicators.

Our science curriculum sparks curiosity and discovery through hands-on experimentation led by a dedicated science teacher.

Our curriculum develops informed, thoughtful, and active citizens who appreciate our diverse and interconnected world.

Students in our Lower School explore Mandarin and Spanish through engaging, immersive language instruction.

Meet the Team

Shari Byrnes

Shari Byrnes

Lower and Middle School Administrative Assistant
Brian Davis

Brian Davis

Assistant Head of School for Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion
LeaAnne Parlette

LeaAnne Parlette

Director of Lower School
Lisa Richter

Lisa Richter

Lower School Counselor
Katie Ryan

Katie Ryan

Learning Specialist
Paul Sanders

Paul Sanders

Head of School
Head of School