Academics
Lower School | Primary–Gr. 4

FAQs

When does the day start and end?
 
Our school day begins at 8:15 a.m. and ends at 3:00 p.m. Afterschool programs end at 6:00 p.m.
 
What if my child is early or late?
 
Students arriving before 8:15 a.m. will stay with faculty until they join their teacher in their classroom.  Students arriving after 8:15 must sign in at the security desk.
 
Is there security in the Lower School all day?
 
We have two full-time security officers on staff during the academic day and a security officer on duty until the Lower School building closes at 6:00 p.m. Guests must sign-in with Security and with the Lower School office.
 
What is served for lunch and when is lunch served?
 
Lunch is served from 11 a.m. for our students in Kindergarten-Grade 4 in the Founder's Hall Dining Room. Lower School faculty sit with the children during lunch, encouraging conversation and healthy eating habits. Our menu typically includes produce from our own garden and our chef is mindful providing fresh, healthy choices for students.
 
Do children have the opportunity to rest during the school day?
 
Our 3s and 4s have a rest period in the afternoon. Some children nap while others take advantage of the quiet time to rest and relax. This important break in the day gives young children the opportunity to re-charge after a busy and stimulating morning and helps them to prepare for the afternoon.
 
Where do I drop off my child in the morning?
 
Teachers, administrators and security are on-hand every morning to greet our students. Members of the faculty help escort students from their cars to the Lower School building.
 
Is bus transportation available?
 
Many towns provide a bus service for our Kindergarten-12th grade students.  Our transportation coordinator (ext. 480) can answer any questions regarding bus service.
 
Does my child receive a snack during the day?
 
GSB provides a healthy snack for all Lower School students.
 
How do I communicate with my child's teacher?
 
You may reach your child's teacher via email, telephone or schedule an in-person meeting. Our faculty see themselves as partners in your child’s development and are happy to talk with you.
 
What is the average class size?
 
The average Lower School class size is 12 students.

Is there a dress code?

The Lower School has a standardized dress code for kindergarten through grade four. This includes polo shirts, khaki or navy pants, and dresses. Belts are encouraged for students in grades one through four. For more information, please see the student handbook.
 
What kinds of opportunities are available for outdoor play, physical education and recess?
 
Primary and Kindergarten students participate in physical education classes and recess every day. Children in grades 1-4 take part in physical education classes four times each week and have daily recess. Students spend as much time as possible outside in the fresh air.
 
What if I sign my child up for three days for Preschool and want to add more days?
 
Sometimes the needs of students and their families change. Our offerings for our Preschool program are flexible and arrangements may be made with the Division Director at any time.
 
What are the special subjects are offered in the lower school years?
 
Science, Music, World Language, Art, Technology, Library Science, and Physical Education comprise our Related Arts offerings. Our related arts teachers incorporate a thematic cross-curricular study of a geographical region each year. The entire Lower School is involved, and the study culminates in the spring with an interactive museum experience created by students and teachers. 

Gill St. Bernard's School

Gill St. Bernard’s is a private, coeducational day school for students age three through grade 12, located in suburban New Jersey. Each of the three school divisions provides a vigorous, meaningful and age-appropriate curriculum, and all students benefit from the environmental learning opportunities that exist on our 208-acre campus.