Many families begin searching for a lower elementary school in Tampa after realizing their child needs a different approach to learning. Some students may feel overlooked in larger classrooms, lose confidence when concepts move too quickly, or struggle to stay organized and engaged throughout the school day. At our private elementary school, we believe students thrive when they are known, supported and challenged in the right environment.
At Tampa Day School’s Lower Division for students grades 3-4, we believe that a strong academic foundation is the key to lifelong success. Our program is built around explicit, high quality instruction and a deep focus on mastering essential skills in reading, writing and math. We meet each child where they are and guide them forward with clear expectations, thoughtful support and a belief in their potential.
Our goal is to help every child feel safe trying new things, build confidence when learning feels hard, and discover the joy of learning again in a caring and supportive school community.
Academic Excellence
Our curriculum is taught at grade level with built in support and extension as needed. We do not lower expectations academically or behaviorally. Instead, we create a learning environment where students are encouraged to rise to the challenge and develop resilience.
Student Benefit From: Daily explicit instruction in foundational reading, writing, math skills, social studies, and science.
By emphasizing strengths and teaching kids to utilize the tools that they have, we foster independence and self advocacy from an early age. This all begins with seeking to Understand your child’s unique strengths and learning needs. All students benefit from our approach to education, including those who might have struggled with ADHD, anxiety, or dyslexia in previous settings.
This approach allows students to build independence, produce high quality work and develop the executive function support for students that leads to greater confidence and true mastery.
We believe academic success is deeply connected to social and emotional growth. Our teachers focus on helping students develop strong relationships, self advocacy skills and a love of learning.
Students learn:
Students feel heard, seen and valued. Engagement increases, learning feels meaningful and children develop a sense of belonging that supports both academic and personal growth.
Supportive Environment for Students
Parents consistently share that their children feel safe, happy, and supported. Parents see the positive impact of our program beginning in third and fourth grade and continuing as students grow academically and socially.
Our teachers understand that learning can feel challenging, frustrating, or overwhelming for some students, including those with ADHD, anxiety, or dyslexia. Expectations are set with empathy, structure, and consistency. We focus on teaching skills rather than reacting to behavior and help students understand their own learning style so they can thrive.
Daily Enrichment and Exploration
In addition to core academics, students enjoy a rich variety of daily electives and after school opportunities.
Daily electives include:
After school clubs and activities may include:
We encourage students to explore their interests, build new skills and discover what excites them.
Social Development and Character Building