Academics
Lower School
The Lower School’s superior academics are enhanced by unique programs that promote crucial growth and development of our youngest students. Our academically and intellectually rigorous curriculum emphasizes the mastery of essential skills through collaborative inquiry and customized learning environments.
The core curriculum of language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies is enhanced with the seven Specials that provide innovative approaches to problem-solving through age-appropriate instruction.
ODA’s culture of innovation is balanced with rich traditions designed to teach critical thinking, collaboration, communication and creativity. Our educational approach lays the foundation for lifelong learning from curious students who seek to understand the world around them.
See what's happening in the Lower School
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Siesta Key Book Swap Promotes Importance of Reading
This week our Lower Schoolers arrived at the Siesta Key Campus carrying a special bag. Each bag contained books they had either outgrown or had read so many times they knew them by heart and were ready to share them with someone else. These books were perfect candidates for donation to the Lower School Book Swap, a program that gives used books renewed impact for our students and children less fortunate.Click to Learn More -
ODA Convocation Tradition Celebrates the Class of 2023
Click to Learn MoreThe tradition of Convocation at The Out-of-Door Academy began in 2002 to acknowledge the senior class as the leaders of the school community. The event initially focused around the graduating class signing the School’s honor pledge in front of the Middle School and Upper School student body, but within two years Convocation had evolved to include the kindergarteners—just beginning their educational journey at ODA—into the celebration. Click for photos from the event.Each fall, seniors are matched with kindergarten “buddies” to mentor throughout the year. This year, they got to know one another at the Senior-Kindergarten Picnic held on the Siesta Key Campus. Then, Lower Schoolers came to the Uihlein Campus for Convocation, a feel-good tradition that exudes a sense of unity as the student body comes together to honor our eldest students as they begin their final year at ODA. Seniors make their entrance hand-in-hand with their kindergarten buddies. -
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ODA Welcomes New Head of School
Debra Otey says she looks forward to her 30th year in education at ODA.Click to Learn More -
ODA Student is "Head for a Day"
On Tuesday, fourth grader Bethany Cox arrived at the Siesta Key Campus ready to push up her sleeves and act as the Head of Lower School for the day. The unique opportunity offered at Banyan Ball gives students the chance to step into each division head's shoes to experience what it is like to keep the school running smoothly. Click here for photos of her day.Click to Learn More
View the Lower School Curriculum
The "Four Cs": creativity, communication, collaboration and critical thinking provide the foundation for our early childhood program.
The Out-of-Door Academy
LOWER SCHOOL | Historic Siesta Key Campus | Pre-K – Grade 5
444 Reid Street, Sarasota, FL 34242 | 941-349-3223 | Fax: 941-349-8133
444 Reid Street, Sarasota, FL 34242 | 941-349-3223 | Fax: 941-349-8133
MIDDLE & UPPER SCHOOLS | Uihlein Campus in Lakewood Ranch | Grades 6 – 8 | Grades 9 – 12
5950 Deer Drive, Sarasota, FL 34240 | 941-349-3223 | Fax: 941-907-1251
The Out-of-Door Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, creed, physical ability, religion, sex, age, gender, sexual orientation, or national origin.
The Out-of-Door Academy is an equal opportunity employer.
© 2022 The Out-of-Door Academy
© 2022 The Out-of-Door Academy