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In the Lower School, students in Kindergarten through 5th grade, are valued for who they are and are supported as they navigate their own understanding and learning within themselves throughout their classes and groups. Their intrinsic motivation—the motivation we all are born with to do something for the satisfaction of the outcome, rather than for the consequences or award—is celebrated and cultivated as they rise up through the grades.
With multi-age classrooms with an intentionally small teacher/student ratio, teachers are the champions of their students, paying attention to what motivates them, what they express interests in, and providing opportunities for students to inquire and explore those interests. Lower School teachers are the catalyst for student learning through collaborative observation, inquiry, reflection, and projection.
Supporting our Reggio-Emilia inspired approach to education, Riverfield is a socially collaborative place that honors the whole student at every step of their development. We believe when children talk through their ideas, what they do and don’t understand, and hear perspectives from their peers, families, and teachers, they develop their thoughts, feelings, and understanding of what’s before them. Mistakes and misunderstandings are treated as an important part of the learning process, as they are meant to be explored to see new perspectives and can help to build empathy.
The interconnectedness of social, emotional, and cognitive development is tied into the everyday life of Riverfield. Patterns they explore in their social and emotional learning are paralleled in their learning of English Language Arts, Math, Science, World Languages, Physical Education, Technology, and the Arts.
Students develop pride in caring for their classrooms, outdoor spaces, animals, and for each other. Each morning starts with a classroom meeting, and when a student is not present, their name is spoken aloud, building the understanding that if they are not there, they are missed and are a valued member of their classroom and school community.
A unique and important part of learning at Riverfield is the campus itself. Every classroom in the Lower School has a door to the outside. On any given day, you will see children working together inside the rooms, reading outside in the sun, or heading out for a hike in the woods. In addition to collaborating with Nature, our students also work with community partners in Tulsa and beyond. They are empowered to develop their own questions, seek understanding and input, and put their minds to how they can make their world a better place.
Katie Musick, Lower School Division Head
As an educator and a parent, I can speak to the supportive and welcoming tone intentionally fostered at Riverfield. Our small class size and attention to social emotional development provide a strong foundation for children to reach their highest potential in all areas of development. Students are expected to work independently and collaboratively, to build their own knowledge, and cultivate the ability to think critically and problem solve with others. We place great emphasis on developing effective oral and written communication and a deep understanding of the processes and content involved in developing math skills. We recognize the learning that takes place when reflection and articulation of ideas are an important part of a student’s day. If you'd like to visit the Lower School and see if it's the right fit for your family, contact us.
