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A carefully planned curriculum, close connections between teachers and students, and thorough academic preparation provide students with the confidence they need to progress as learners and as citizens of a caring community." Emily Holt, Lower Division Director
Welcome to the Lower School!
Lower school at St. Hilda's & St. Hugh's encompasses first through third grade. Entrance into the lower school marks a progression in our students' educational experience, from our play-based early childhood program to a more structured environment. The changes are visible and tangible—children wear uniforms, sit in desks, and have weekday homework for the first time—but the goals and spirit of the program remain consistent. A carefully planned curriculum, close connections between teachers and students, and thorough academic preparation provide students with the confidence they need to progress as learners and as citizens of a caring community.
Our students embrace the new expectations of lower school, and the program and schedule provide students with many opportunities to form strong bonds with one another. Academically, their growing ability to work independently is balanced with opportunities for group work. Socially, both classes come together at least three times daily to eat and play—at lunch, recess, and in physical education class.
Working with the students and parents of the lower school is immensely gratifying for all of us on the lower division faculty. We cherish the opportunity to take part in our students' physical, emotional, and academic growth in these primary educational years.
Emily Holt
Lower Division Director
Emily Holt recently celebrated her 20th year at St. Hilda's & St. Hugh's. Among the many highlights of her career, Emily organized the Brass Band trip in 2000 that brought students to Birmingham, England, to perform. She also served as the director of development, a seventh grade English teacher, and director of secondary school placement before becoming the lower division director in 2000.
Emily received a master's degree from Bank Street College of Education and a bachelor's degree from Dartmouth College. She is the mother of three current St. Hilda's & St. Hugh's students.
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619 West 114th Street, New York, NY 10025
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