The Primary Department of Clare Woods Academy consists of three classrooms: G1, G2, and G8. Each classroom is cross-categorical. The focus of the department is to provide a nurturing educational environment where each student will achieve his/her greatest potential. Each day is begun with group activities centered around calendar and weather activities, songs, stories and character development.

Core academics taught in the primary department include: reading readiness, reading, phonics and math:(e.g., addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and basic money/time concepts and skills). Fine motor development is taught through patterns and designs using beads, parquetry and pegs. In collaboration with the Occupational therapists, handwriting for printing and cursive writing is taught. Science skills and concepts are developed depending on the ability level of students in each classroom. All academics are formulated and aligned with State Standards and are determined by each student's IEP. Students unable to take State assessments are afforded the opportunity to present their growth and development through alternative assessment tools.

Our staff is dedicated, caring, and qualified. Our philosophy is to be conscious of our attitudes, to be present to students and one another, to be there for others, and to sprinkle the element of play throughout each day.