Lower School Overview
The programs emphasize student acquisition of core knowledge in a classical studies format.
The Lower School at Providence, Enrichment I through Class Six (grades pre-k through six), provides the primary level of learning in the classical framework. The programs emphasize student acquisition of core knowledge in a classical studies format. Students are shown in the early years how to enhance their educational experience by rehearsing all the habits and procedures needed for future learning and interacting in a community environment. The purpose of this emphasis is to reduce the possibility of lost instructional time because students are uncertain about classroom learning procedures.
The Lower School schedule begins with Bible time where students build a sense of peace and classroom harmony. Students are motivated to examine the information, learn the vocabulary, memorize the rules, and narrate the material of specific subjects. With a focus on narration, the children demonstrate their comprehension of the subject matter.
A key feature that distinguishes a Providence education from most modern approaches is that its students are carefully trained in language, that actual content forms its basis, and that reason and God’s Truth, rather than “feelings,” govern the conclusions students reach.
In keeping with our philosophy of “less is more,” school days at Providence are shorter than in most schools. Our four-year old program (Enrichment I, four as of September 1) is one-half day, two days per week; the five-year old program for Enrichment II (five as of September 1) is two one-half days per week; the five-year old program for Enrichment III (five as of June 1) is either two full days per week or three one-half days; Classes One and Two are dismissed at noon on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and stay all day on Tuesday and Thursday; Classes Three through Six are in class beginning at 8:00 a.m. and are dismissed at 2:45 p.m. five days per week.