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Lower School (K-5)

Between lively class participation and an expectation that students can move from homerooms to specialists on their own, the Lower School feels like a living children's museum—active, engaging, and collaborative. Rich student-teacher relationships develop a love of learning and inspire creativity. Thematic units at each grade level allow Lower School students to explore a single topic in multiple, connected ways through project-based learning. We research and review educational best practices, tailoring them to the needs of our students.

Our character education program is more than goals on a poster, but instead infuses the Core Values into all areas of the school, both in set-aside discussion times, more casual conversations, and within the curriculum. Students learn choices and consequences, not rules and compliance, as they embrace the uncomfortable, adapt to failure, and grow into success.

Welcome from Debby McLean

Children start curious. As Lower School Director, it is my responsibility to cultivate and enrich that
natural curiosity through my work with faculty, parents, and children. It is also my job to ensure that everyone is welcomed and valued in our community.

Our Lower School Leadership Team

For general inquiries, please contact (310) 471-1041.

Debby McLean

Debby McLean

Director, Lower School
Blair Spearn

Blair Spearn

Assistant Director, Lower School
Jason Wang

Jason Wang

Assistant Director of Equity & Inclusion
Adrienne Agena

Adrienne Agena

Director of Admissions, West Campus
Laura Taylor

Laura Taylor

Counselor, Lower School; Character Education Coordinator
Whitney Abramo

Whitney Abramo

Director of Service Learning, Lower School
Kelly Heard

Kelly Heard

Mathematics Specialist, Lower School
Megan Bloom

Megan Bloom

Learning Specialist, Lower School
Christine Smolyanskiy

Christine Smolyanskiy

Nurse, Lower School
Victoire Parker

Victoire Parker

Administrative Assistant to the Director, Lower School
Holly Briner

Holly Briner

Receptionist & Administrative Assistant, West Campus