Baldwin prides itself in offering students an inspiring and rigorous
academic curriculum coupled with a rich
student life full of cultural opportunities and creative outlets. We reinforce strong character attributes, understanding that these are the cornerstone of the complete education of the
“whole” girl.
All Lower School students are introduced to the process of
effective decision making and guided in acquiring the skills that are necessary to make choices that are in keeping with our school's core values of
honesty, learning, respect, responsibility, and compassion to truly become a Baldwin "
thinking girl."
The
entire campus is home to Lower School students and offers myriad learning opportunities. Teachers and girls utilize the gardens, courtyards and fields throughout our beautiful 25-acre campus to learn lessons in
environmental stewardship.
Pre-kindergarten and Kindergarten classes are located in the
Early Childhood Center of the historic Residence building. Consisting of a unique complex of classrooms complete with climbing lofts; covered porches with play areas, sand/water tables and gardening equipment; and a playground, the center is specifically designed to meet the developmental needs of four- through six-year old girls. These youngest students are fully integrated into the life of the Lower School, attending assemblies, special subject classes, computer lab, science, physical education and swimming. Partner activities, such as book buddies and service projects with older grades help the girls build lasting friendships with their bigger Baldwin "sisters."
The
Lower School building houses
first through fifth grade classrooms. It is adjacent to a science and art garden, the beautiful new Athletic Center and a state-of-the-art playground. Special subject classes include art, music, technology, science, library, foreign languages, physical education and swimming. Some of these are held in the Schoolhouse, the Science Building and the Residence.
Fifth graders have their own individual departmentalized schedules.
They meet daily for homeroom activity times, hold class meetings, and travel independently to their respective classes. As leaders of the Lower School they strive to be good role models for the younger girls. Baldwin students, kindergarten through fifth, eat lunch together in the dining hall of the Residence building.
The Lower School years are a time when children are open to exploring, learning, and stretching their intellectual boundaries. In our all-girls environment, we see this natural learning process as inhibitions are cast aside, the thirst for knowledge is quenched, and the foundations for life-long learning and responsible citizenship are established.