Academics

Lower Division (1-4)

Casady School offers a 15-year experience intentionally designed to prepare students for success and to inspire young people to honor, to learn, to engage, to innovate, to serve, and to thrive.
As you walk our cheerful hallways, you will notice that they are adorned with inspiring student work, showcasing creativity, achievement, and meaningful learning. Our students flourish in a nurturing learning environment where curiosity and exploration are encouraged. Curiosity propels their exciting scientific inquiries, critical thinking enriches their understanding of social studies, mathematical reasoning is developed, and strong language skills are honed through meaningful practice grounded in the science of reading and the best available curriculum.

With a steadfast focus on mutual respect and ethical values, we prepare our students to become thoughtful, engaged citizens who cherish the wonder of learning and recognize the importance of community. Daily morning meetings set the tone for a positive atmosphere, where students eagerly share their thoughts and feelings, learn valuable conflict resolution skills, and practice active listening. We foster a climate deeply rooted in life principles such as empathy, responsibility, and integrity. 

Lower Division is a special place where we live our School’s commitment to foster “Balance, Purpose, and Joy.”

Montie Sill
Director of Lower Division

Program Overview

In Lower Division, our goal is to create meaningful opportunities where students find joy in the learning process and become well-rounded students who respect one another and embrace lifelong learning. With a focus on mutual respect and ethical values, we prepare our students to become thoughtful, engaged citizens who appreciate the wonder of learning and the importance of community.

List of 6 items.

  • Science

    In our science program, lessons are designed to spark curiosity through hands-on activities. We utilize the Smithsonian Science Curriculum, which emphasizes inquiry-based learning and real-world connections.

    This curriculum offers a wealth of resources, including interactive experiments and engaging content that help students explore topics such as biodiversity, earth sciences, and technology. Students engage in experiments, nature walks, and interactive projects that encourage exploration.

    For example, a unit on ecosystems may involve creating a mini-garden, allowing students to observe plant growth and understand ecological relationships firsthand. These experiences not only enhance scientific understanding but also promote critical thinking and inquiry, fostering a sense of wonder about the natural world.

  • Social Studies

    Social studies lessons are enriched through the use of thinking routines, which encourage students to analyze, reflect, and connect with historical and cultural contexts. Activities such as "See-Think-Wonder" help students articulate their thoughts, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives.

    By integrating projects that explore local history or global issues, students learn the importance of their role as citizens of their community and of the world.

  • Language Arts

    In our language arts program, we focus on developing strong writers and readers through a balanced approach that embeds grammar and writing instruction in authentic contexts. Our curriculum is grounded in The Science of Reading, ensuring that our teaching practices are informed by evidence-based research. We utilize the Fundations program to build a solid foundation in phonics, spelling, and vocabulary, helping students develop essential reading skills. The Heggerty curriculum complements this by emphasizing phonemic awareness through engaging activities that enhance listening and speaking skills.

    To support writing development, we use The Writing Revolution framework, which teaches students to organize their thoughts and express them clearly. This approach focuses on sentence-level instruction and structured writing strategies, enabling students to develop coherent and compelling narratives. Students engage in daily reading and writing workshops, where they explore different genres and refine their skills. Grammar lessons are seamlessly integrated into writing activities, allowing students to understand the mechanics of language while expressing their creativity. Peer feedback and collaboration further enhance their writing journey, creating a supportive community of learners.

  • Mathematics

    The Math in Focus curriculum emphasizes conceptual understanding and real-world application, making math engaging and relevant. Through hands-on problem-solving and collaborative activities, students explore mathematical concepts deeply. The curriculum encourages the use of visual aids, manipulatives, and guided practice to foster critical thinking. This approach not only helps students master foundational skills but also nurtures their ability to approach challenges with confidence and creativity.

  • Climate of Mutual Respect

    Our School emphasizes a climate of mutual respect, grounded in the teaching of life principles that include empathy, responsibility, and integrity. Daily morning meetings set the tone for a positive atmosphere, where students share their thoughts and feelings, learn conflict resolution skills, and practice active listening. Bible study is woven into our curriculum, providing moral and ethical frameworks that guide behavior and promote kindness and compassion among students.

  • Bible, Chapel, PE, and Specials

    Bible study is intricately woven into our curriculum, providing moral and ethical frameworks that guide behavior and foster kindness and compassion among students. Our dynamic rotating special schedule includes enriching classes in Spanish, Computer Science, Bible, Art, and Music, allowing students to explore their interests and develop diverse skills. Additionally, the added benefit of daily PE ensures that students stay active and healthy, enhancing their overall well-being. Daily Chapel further nurtures their spiritual growth, creating a strong sense of community and purpose.
9500 N. Pennsylvania Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73120     |     Phone: (405) 749-3100
Casady School is an independent, co-educational, college preparatory, Episcopal day school serving students in pre-k-12. Educating Mind, Body, and Spirit.
Casady School is a PreK-12, independent, college preparatory Episcopal day school committed to deeper-level learning. Casady School welcomes a student body that reflects the diversity of the world around us and therefore does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, nationality, or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, athletics, and other school-administered programs generally accorded or made available to students at the School.