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Overview

Taking advantage of every opportunity for learning

Our Lower School integrates classroom learning with community experiences to teach and excite children about the world, its possibilities and their place within it. Designed for elementary- and middle school-age students, it immerses students in classroom learning, combined with lessons in daily living skills and communication and travel, with a goal of greater awareness and independence.

A focus on independence

Our students and their families choose Perkins for all the things not typically found in a public school setting — skills taught through the Expanded Core Curriculum. This instruction is integrated into every moment of the day — from daily living tasks like cooking and housekeeping to mobility skills, personal care, managing money and social skills.

Supervisory staff trained in child care and child development are on-site and always available to assist while students have more opportunity to practice tasks such as:

  • Personal care
  • Mobility skills
  • Daily living skills
  • Social skills

Lower School curriculum

The Lower School aims to educate the whole child, from traditional academics that will prepare each child intellectually to the self-help and social skills that allow our students to increase their independence.

Core academics

  • Reading
  • Writing
  • Math
  • Science
  • History
  • Social studies

Cultural education

  • Art
  • Music therapy
  • Chorus
  • Piano instruction

Technology & communication

  • Assistive technology instruction
  • AAC support
  • Braille and large print hardware and apps

Movement & motor skills

  • Use active learning approaches
  • Practice healthy, active lifestyles
  • Hone motor skills and improve balance and coordination in our adapted physical education program

Clinical & specialized services

  • Occupational therapy
  • Physical therapy
  • Speech and language therapy
  • Audiology
  • Orientation and mobility
  • Visual efficiency training

Specially trained staff

Our educators work as part of a passionate, interdisciplinary team of related services staff to provide a multitude of services, including:

  • Individual and group counseling
  • Sensory integration programs
  • Social skills development
  • Community experiences

Lower School stories & resources

Contact Perkins

Discover how a Perkins education can help your child.

Does it sound like Perkins could be the right fit for your child? We’d love to discuss potential options for enrollment with you!

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Discover more of what makes Perkins special.

We believe every child can learn, and learning is for life.