- What grades are included in the Lower School, and where is the campus located?
The Lower School serves students in grades 1 through 5. The campus is located at 905 South Waterloo Road, Devon, PA 19333 (484-654-2400). It sits on a 39-acre property certified by the National Wildlife Federation, featuring a running stream, koi pond, hardwood forest, meadows, and gardens, all used for outdoor learning and exploration.
- Does my child need to be a Christian to attend the Lower School?
Students are not required to have made a personal profession of faith in Christ to attend the Lower School. However, DC is a covenant school that partners with Christian parents, and at least one parent must be able to clearly articulate a saving faith in Jesus Christ.
DC is distinctly Christ-centered. Biblical truth is woven throughout the school day—from Bible class and weekly chapel to every academic subject—and our curriculum is taught from a Christian worldview and framed within God’s Story. Families considering enrollment should understand that this foundation is central to the DC experience. Learn more about what we believe.
- What subjects are taught in the Lower School?
Lower School students in grades 1–5 receive instruction in Bible, math, reading & lLanguage arts, science, history, and Spanish, all taught from a biblical worldview perspective. Enrichment classes are also embedded into every student’s school day, including HIVE (Hub for Innovation and Exploration), Art, Music, Physical Education, and Library & Technology. Students also participate in grade-level field trips and real-world field studies each year. Learn more about our Lower School Curriculum.
- How does DC support students with different learning needs or abilities?
DC uses differentiated instruction to help students grow from their individual starting points. Teachers use whole-group, small-group, and individual instruction to provide appropriate challenge and support.
When additional help is needed, Lower School Student Support Services partners with families and teachers to identify the most appropriate next steps. Support may include:
- PACE executive functioning enrichment
- In-class reading or math support
- Short-term small-group reading intervention
- Individual or small-group learning support for students with documented learning needs
- Intensive reading replacement instruction
- Reading, math, and speech-language services provided through the Chester County Intermediate Unit
Some individualized services require a current psychoeducational evaluation and may involve an additional fee. The Lower School counselor is also available to support students’ social and emotional well-being. Learn more about Student Support Services.
- What is the HIVE, and how does it benefit my child?
The HIVE (Hub for Innovation and Exploration) is an interdisciplinary class integrated into every Lower School student’s regular schedule. Students are encouraged to think critically, exercise creativity, collaborate with peers, and communicate their learning through real-world, project-based challenges. Past projects have included building ancient Egyptian chariots in 1st grade, designing pneumatically powered drawbridges in 4th grade, and creating stop-motion videos in 5th grade.
- Is after-school care available, and what does it cost?
Yes. DC Aftercare is available for students in grades PK3–5 from 3:00 to 5:30 pm, with a half-session option ending at 4:15 pm. Students may attend one to five days per week. Families can pre-register each quarter at a discounted rate, or use drop-in care when space is available with at least 24 hours’ notice. Current rates are listed on our website.
In addition to aftercare, DC offers EXCEL after-school clubs and athletic opportunities throughout the school year. Programs may include robotics, chess, archery, climbing, Knights Sports Academy activities, and more. Registration details, schedules, and fees are communicated to families through the weekly Lower School newsletter as opportunities become available.
- What is the tuition for Lower School, and is financial aid available?
Tuition for Lower School students varies by grade level. DC is committed to making a Christian education as accessible as possible. The school’s Annual Fund and endowment income cover approximately 19% of operating costs, meaning every family already pays less than the full cost of their child’s education.
Need-based financial aid is available for families in grades 1–5, determined by an independent third-party administrator based on each family’s financial profile. Scholarships are also available for qualifying students.
See the full tuition schedule and financial aid details.
- How does Christian faith shape everyday classroom learning, not just Bible class?
At DC, Christian faith is not a separate subject—it is the foundation of everything we teach and do. Every lesson, relationship, and experience is viewed through the lens of God’s truth. Students participate in daily Bible classes, gather weekly for chapel, and engage in meaningful service opportunities throughout the year. Our desire is for every student to understand God’s redemptive story and discover the unique role He has prepared for them within it.
Our Honor Code and Teaching for Transformation Throughlines shape the culture of our community, encouraging students to love God wholeheartedly and love their neighbors in every interaction. Whether marveling at God’s creativity through science, recognizing His faithfulness throughout history, appreciating beauty in the arts, or developing wisdom through mathematics and literature, students are continually invited to see God’s hand at work. Faith and learning are inseparably woven together, equipping students to think deeply, live faithfully, and serve Christ in every area of life.
- What is the admissions process, and when should we apply?
DC recommends starting the admissions process as early as possible to ensure availability in your desired grade level. Families can begin by submitting an inquiry, scheduling a campus visit or registering for an open house, and then completing a formal application. Applications generally open in September for the following school year.
View the entire Application Timeline.
- What is the average class size and student-to-teacher ratio in the Lower School?
In our Lower School, we keep our class sizes small to ensure every student receives individualized attention, care, and instruction.
- Average Class Size: 19 students per classroom
- Student-to-Teacher-and-Aide Ratio: 12:1
With small teacher-to-student ratios and dedicated aides in our classrooms, our educators are able to foster deep relationships with each child, tailor instruction to their learning needs, and build a supportive community where students thrive.
