Daily Life & Logistics

Some Primer campuses offer beforecare and aftercare to help support families' schedules.

• Beforecare: Available beginning at 7:30 a.m. at select campuses.
• Aftercare: Available from 3:30–6:00 p.m.
  • $100 per student per month, or
  • $10 per day for drop-in care.

Availability may vary by campus. Your Admissions representative can let you know what options are available at your location.

Primer does not provide transportation. Families are responsible for student drop-off and pick-up each day. Many families also choose to coordinate carpools with other Primer families in their community.

At Primer, students learn in multi-age grade bands: K–2, 3–5, and 6–8. These groupings create opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and community while allowing educators to meet students where they are academically and developmentally.

Students progress through academic content based on mastery. Rather than moving on simply because a unit has ended, students build a strong understanding of key concepts before advancing to more challenging material. This approach helps students develop confidence, close learning gaps, and continue growing at an appropriate pace.

Primer Leaders regularly review student progress, assessment results, and classroom performance to ensure each student is receiving the right level of support and challenge. Families can track academic progress through PrimerOS and partner with educators to celebrate growth throughout the year.

As students demonstrate readiness academically, socially, and emotionally, they transition to the next grade band and take on new opportunities for independence, leadership, and deeper learning.

Primer is committed to providing a safe and welcoming environment where students can focus on learning. Every campus follows established safety procedures and prepares students and staff to respond to emergencies.

Our safety measures include:

• Thorough background checks for all staff members before they begin working with students.
• Background checks for campus volunteers.
• Annual safety training for educators, including first aid and CPR.
• Regular emergency preparedness drills, including fire, severe weather, and active threat drills.
• Secure campuses with locked exterior doors and gates during the school day.
• Security cameras on every campus.
• Emergency response plans developed in partnership with local fire and public safety agencies.

At Primer, every classroom is built around three key elements that support student success:

• A structured, positive learning environment: Students learn in classrooms with clear routines, consistent expectations, and a culture that helps them feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.
• Thoughtful planning and instruction: Primer Leaders come prepared each day with lessons, materials, and activities designed to make the most of every learning opportunity.
• Personalized support and engagement: Students participate in a variety of learning experiences—including direct instruction, independent work, small-group learning, and hands-on projects. Throughout the day, Primer Leaders provide guidance, individualized support, and feedback to help every student stay engaged and continue making progress.

Together, these practices create an environment where students are challenged, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.