Lower School
Grades 1-5

Our Approach to Educating Girls

At the Elms, your daughter will be encouraged to learn and develop at a pace that matches her learning style and personality. Our unique curriculum offers an integrated approach to Mathematics, Reading and Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, Technology, Health, Physical Education, Religion and the Fine Arts. Our curriculum aligns jointly with the State of Ohio Education Standards and the Diocese of Cleveland Curriculum; accreditation through OCSAA. All Elms faculty members hold a minimum of a Bachelor’s Degree in Education or a related specialty. Our teachers are highly knowledgeable, experienced and caring.

In the classroom, each student will explore the world around her and express her ideas and opinions as she continues to develop her unique personality, gain confidence and build a positive self-image. We limit classroom sizes to 18 students to ensure our students receive individual attention and personalized instruction. Our program values each child as an individual with her own talents and abilities.

Project Based Learning

Teachers make learning come alive as students work on projects over extended periods of time. Students engage in real-time problem solving and their accomplishments are incredible! As a result, we have been amazed by the creativity through teamwork. By embracing Project Based Learning, our girls have created Elms Inc. An entrepreneurial initiative, Elms Inc. provides opportunities for students to learn business concepts by creating products, budgeting and building simple business plans and marketing their products. With the Primary Garden Project, our raised-bed gardens allow students outdoor learning experiences throughout the year. Students taste food from the vine, see the life cycle of plants and participate in field experiments. 

Acceptance Into Grades 1-5

The application process for students seeking admission into Grades 1-5 includes visiting the Elms, shadowing another student for a day, applying and completing an assessment interview.

Off Campus Experiences

Our students have regular opportunities for off-site learning through trips to the zoo, working farms and more. Our hands-on experiences allow for learning beyond the classroom and support our academic concepts.

Athletic Program

At the Elms, 100 percent of our athletic resources are devoted to girls.

Elms coaches assist the student athlete with her spiritual, mental, emotional, social and physical growth and development. In addition, she learns self discipline and control, the value of teamwork and mutual respect, the importance of commitment and dedication and an appreciation of personal worth and accomplishment. These life lessons, and the valuable, positive relationships formed on a Panthers team, follow and sustain our student athletes throughout their lives.

Students have access to a full gym with basketball and volleyball courts, dance studio, outdoor tennis courts, a running track and soccer and softball fields. The fitness facility complements strength and conditioning programs as well as enhances campus life for students not currently on an in-season team. In the winter, basketball is offered for students in grades 3-5. Dance and Martial Arts are offered after school as well.