Houston Academy, founded in 1970, is committed to academic excellence and cherished traditions, offering students an education that extends beyond the classroom. We focus on developing strong character, leadership skills, and a sense of community, preparing graduates to succeed and make meaningful contributions to the world.
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At Houston Academy, we provide a personalized, college-preparatory education that empowers students to achieve their highest potential. With a focus on excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts, along with a strong sense of community and tradition, HA prepares students to thrive in a rapidly changing world. The HA Difference is seen in our dedicated faculty, engaged students, and the lasting connections that make our school truly unique.
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At Houston Academy, our mission is to develop the whole child, and we are proud to be one of the state’s leading independent schools. Serving students from PK3 through 12th grade, our college preparatory curriculum is enriched by strong core values, the arts, athletics, and time-honored traditions. The close connections among our teachers, students, parents, and alumni create a family-like community where every student can thrive.
Houston Academy students think critically, communicate effectively, and collaborate to solve problems as they strive to achieve their goals and redefine success on their terms. They maintain a balance between high achievement and personal well-being, fostering growth in all areas of life. Within a supportive and dynamic learning environment, students actively engage in the educational process and reflect thoughtfully on their experiences.
At Houston Academy, we value the visual, performing, and musical arts as essential components of a well-rounded academic experience. Committed to nurturing the whole student, we offer opportunities for creative exploration beginning with early instruction in music, art, and performance, continuing through advanced courses and full-scale productions in Middle and Upper School.
Houston Academy encourages all students to participate in athletics, offering exceptional programs that promote sportsmanship, determination, and teamwork. With 40 teams across 15 sports for students in Grades 7–12, and additional opportunities for younger athletes, we create an inclusive and supportive environment where students can excel. We are committed to fostering a culture of integrity and respect both on and off the field.
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Houston Academy offers a vibrant student life where students of all ages are encouraged to engage and thrive. With numerous opportunities for involvement in athletics, clubs, and social activities, our school fosters a supportive environment that nurtures personal growth, teamwork, and leadership. Our rich traditions create a sense of belonging, ensuring that every student can succeed both in and out of the classroom.
Support Houston Academy's mission of academic excellence and character development by contributing to our vibrant culture of giving. Your generosity impacts every student, every day.
Lower School Overview and Curriculum
At Houston Academy, our Lower School (Grades 1-4) provides a strong academic foundation in a nurturing environment where curiosity is encouraged and a love of learning is cultivated. Our school day runs from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, filled with hands-on learning experiences, enriching instruction, and time for students to grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally.
Academic Foundations
Our curriculum combines research-based core programs with dynamic enrichment opportunities to support the whole child. We use the Math in Focus program to develop deep conceptual understanding of mathematics, while the Benchmark Workshop program fosters strong reading, writing, and language skills through small group instruction and differentiated learning. Across all grades, students participate in the Accelerated Reader program, which builds reading fluency and comprehension through goal-setting and accountability.
Beginning in First Grade, students also benefit from the Handwriting Without Tears program, a developmentally appropriate and engaging approach to writing that promotes legibility and fine motor skills.
Enrichment & Specials
To complement academic instruction, Lower School students enjoy a well-rounded enrichment schedule that includes:
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Art – Fostering creativity and visual expression
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Library – Cultivating a love of reading and research skills
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Music – Building rhythm, melody, and performance skills
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Physical Education (PE) – Promoting healthy habits, teamwork, and motor development
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STEAM – Exploring science, technology, engineering, art, and math through hands-on projects
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Character Education – Encouraging empathy, responsibility, and leadership
Outside the Classroom in Lower School
At Houston Academy, we believe that meaningful learning happens everywhere—not just at desks and in textbooks. Our Lower School students regularly engage in hands-on experiences, community connections, and creative celebrations that extend and enrich their classroom learning.
These thoughtfully planned events and field trips support academic goals, foster independence, and build lasting memories. Each experience is designed to help students explore new ideas, connect with their peers, and see their learning in action.
Here are just a few highlights by grade level:
1st Grade
WonderWorks Museum Field Trip
Fairytale Ball
Visit to Wallace Simulation Clinic with the Nursing School
2nd Grade
Naval Aviation Museum in Pensacola
2nd Grade Luau Celebration
SEADAC Nutcracker Performance
3rd Grade
Maypole Performance during Mayfair
Visit to the Montgomery Capitol
HudsonAlpha Dothan DNA Day
4th Grade
Tallahassee Museum & Challenger Learning Center
Kite Day – Flying Kites with the 3P Class
End of Lower School Celebration Luncheon
These experiences outside the classroom deepen engagement, build confidence, and help our students grow as curious, compassionate learners. They are part of what makes Lower School at Houston Academy so vibrant and memorable.
Other Lower School Events and Opportunities
Life in the Lower School at Houston Academy is full of opportunities for students to grow as leaders, friends, and engaged members of their community. In addition to classroom learning and grade-specific field trips, we offer a variety of school-wide events, celebrations, and enrichment programs that create a vibrant and connected student experience.
These activities encourage character development, creativity, school spirit, and service—building confidence and fostering a sense of belonging from the earliest years.
Here are just some of the exciting events and opportunities students enjoy throughout the year:
Lower School Student Government (1st–4th Grades)
Mayfair Celebration (3P–6th Grades)
Lower School Talent Show (1st–4th Grades)
Grandparents Day (3P–4th Grades)
Recognition Day (1st–4th Grades)
RAIDER Kids – Student of the Month Program (1st–4th Grades)
(Raider spirit, Always kind, Includes everyone, Does their best, Example to others, Reliable helper and friend)
Spelling Bee (1st–4th Grades)
Christmas Sing-A-Long (3P–4th Grades)
Read Across America Week
Kids for Christ (1st–6th Grades)
Hits for Heroes – A Lower School-wide drive to raise awareness for the sacrifices of our military
These experiences reflect our belief that a great education includes more than just academics—it’s about building character, celebrating community, and helping every child shine in their own unique way.
Head of Lower School
Julie Kinney
Lower School Counselor
Ashley Skinner