Welcome to Lower School
The lower school program at Mead Hall, (grades 1-4), provides a solid foundation in academics in preparation for the rigor of upper level courses. Veteran faculty and small class sizes allow students to thrive in a learning environment which focuses on applying the basics in practical and engaging learning experiences. Students are active participants in the learning process – researching, experimenting, observing, collaborating and reporting together. Field trips and guest speakers, inter-grade projects, and service to school and community are interwoven throughout the year to enhance social/emotional development. Art, music, media studies, PE, and sacred studies enhance the learning experience each week.

Accelerated Reader Program

The Accelerated Reader Program is a software assessment device used to monitor students reading comprehension. There are three steps to using AR. First, students choose and read a fiction or non-fiction book that is part of the AR program. A complete list of the AR books can be found on the Accelerated Reader website using the link below. Second, students answer comprehension questions using a school computer. Third, a report is generated stating the number of points the student earned from each book. This program is intended to encourage students to read and to increase their reading comprehension. It is optional for the students; however, on occasion teachers may use the AR program to evaluate comprehension for an assigned reading selection. It is suggested that you encourage your child to read a wide variety of genres, some of which are not part of the AR program.

Students who meet half of their quarterly goals will receive a certificate to encourage them to keep working to achieve the full quarterly goal. Students who meet their quarterly goals will choose a book in recognition of their achievement. At the end of the year, the top reader from each grade will receive a special award.

Declamation
An Aiken Prep tradition since 1946, students in PK – Grade 12 memorize an age-appropriate speech, poem, or monologue, and recite it in front of their peers.  The best from each class in PK – grade 4 will go on to recite their piece in a Declamation Showcase in the St. Thaddeus Sanctuary in front of friends and family. The opportunity to memorize and recite a selected work increases vocabulary, enhances diction, and strengthens public speaking skills.  The confidence instilled in these students results in poised and articulate adults.