Welcome to Lower School at Salisbury Academy, where students in grades 1 through 4 build strong academic foundations while growing into creative problem solvers, confident communicators, and compassionate community members.
Each day in our Lower School is a vibrant blend of challenge, discovery, and joy. Through the Core Knowledge Sequence and an engaging, hands-on approach to learning, students explore rich content across language arts, math, science, and social studies—while developing the critical thinking and communication skills they’ll carry for life. Enhancement classes in Spanish, art, music, and physical education further support whole-child development and inspire curiosity.
Whether presenting research, collaborating on a service project, or tackling a STEM investigation, our students are nurtured to become resilient leaders who value wellness, find joy in learning, and are eager for the opportunities ahead. In this warm and inclusive learning community, every child is known, supported, and empowered to thrive.
Building Strong Foundations
At Salisbury Academy, Lower School students gain more than knowledge—they develop the habits of mind and heart that lay the groundwork for a lifetime of learning. Through the Core Knowledge Sequence, children explore rich, cumulative content in literacy, math, science, and social studies—deepening their understanding year by year. From exploring ancient civilizations in second grade to analyzing U.S. geography and crafting persuasive essays in fourth, students are challenged to think critically and express themselves with clarity. Across every grade, they strengthen oral and written communication, practice active listening, and grow in confidence as independent thinkers.
Within strong classroom communities and with thoughtful, individualized support, each child is empowered to build both academic mastery and character—preparing them to thrive in the grades ahead and in life.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
At Salisbury Academy, learning comes alive through real-world exploration and service. Lower School students apply classroom concepts in meaningful ways—collecting data during nature walks, visiting farms and businesses, and engaging in hands-on fieldwork that sparks curiosity and deepens understanding.
Field trips to museums, historic sites, theaters, and overnight camps offer rich cultural and academic experiences, while stewardship projects foster a sense of responsibility to others and the environment. These dynamic learning opportunities build confident communicators, compassionate citizens, and joyful problem solvers—hallmarks of a Salisbury Academy graduate.
Growing in Character and Confidence
Character development is woven into every aspect of Lower School life at Salisbury Academy. Through intentional community time and the support of a dedicated school counselor, students learn to navigate emotions, build healthy relationships, and practice empathy.
Leadership and mentorship come to life in meaningful ways—from speaking and performing in weekly chapels to participating in cross-grade buddy programs where students experience the joy of both mentoring and being mentored. These experiences help students discover their strengths, build authentic connections, and develop the confidence to lead with compassion and purpose.
Exploring Passions and Talents
Beyond the school day, Lower School students at Salisbury Academy have abundant opportunities to discover and develop their unique interests. Our after-school program runs until 5:30 p.m. daily and offers enrichment classes in areas such as crafts, sports, STEM, and theater—giving students the chance to explore new hobbies or dive deeper into existing ones.
Signature events like the spring play and school-wide talent show let creativity shine, while the foundations of athletic teamwork begin early with track (starting in kindergarten), cheerleading (third grade and up), and cross country (fourth grade and up).
Students can also build their love of reading and teamwork through the Elementary Battle of the Books beginning in fourth grade. These experiences nurture joy, self-expression, and a sense of belonging—helping students grow into well-rounded learners with confidence in who they are and what they love.