All classes in Prekindergarten through Fifth Grade are self-contained with some departmentalization in the third-fifth grades. The core curriculum of language arts, mathematics, science, health and social studies is supplemented with instruction in art, music, physical education, Bible, library skills and technology. The learning experience is further enhanced by field trips, limited class sizes and an atmosphere of Christian love and concern.
 

Instruction at lower school includes studies in language arts, math, science, social studies, health and safety, physical education, art, music, Bible and technology. The classroom atmosphere is one of structure with flexibility. Teaching methods, materials and curriculum are reviewed annually to ensure that they are serving lower school needs.

Language Arts
SCPS provides a strong phonics-based program that emphasizes all communication skills and integrates reading, spelling, vocabulary and grammar with listening, composition, comprehension and dictation activities.

Mathematics
SCPS uses a complete program designed to help students develop the ability to think intelligently with numbers. It is heavily oriented toward computational and problem solving skills.

Science and Social Studies
These programs use the natural curiosity of the child as a springboard for meaningful study and experimentation with emphasis placed on the world in which children live. Field trips afford an excellent opportunity for broadening learning in these areas.

Art
A certified art teacher instructs students in a weekly class that emphasizes the acquisition of basic art skills, the expression of one’s creativity and the appreciation of beauty.

Bible
A certified teacher instructs students in a weekly class that explores age-appropriate lessons and familiarizes students with God’s word. Students memorize a verse weekly.

Computer
The classroom teacher with support from the certified technology curriculum coordinator instructs students in a weekly class that stresses in the various uses of the computer, including keyboarding, and incorporates all areas of the curriculum. A wide variety of software is available to reinforce specific classroom lessons.

Media
A certified media specialist and media aides instruct students in monthly classes that include various library skills, literature appreciation and borrowing books. Second through fifth-graders are very active in the Reading Counts, a reading comprehension program that includes tests on the computer. For a list of Reading Counts test click here. (click)

Music
A certified music teacher instructs students in a weekly class emphasizing the fundamentals of music theory and music appreciation. Instruction on band instruments begins in the fifth grades and is optional.

Physical Education
A certified PE teacher instructs students two or three times per week emphasizing the physical development of the child. Goals are to improve coordination and motor skills and increase knowledge of fitness, games and sports. Classroom teachers supervise playground recess on days P.E. is not scheduled.

Spanish/Latin
A certified teacher instructs students weekly in a conversational Spanish curriculum. Students are exposed to the languages of Spanish and Latin through stories, song, Spanish and Latin-speaking cultures as well as the world around them. Students are expected to listen, understand, speak and write at their instructional level. The study of Latin begins at the fifth grade.

• Latin Vocabulary Words
  1-9-08, 1-16-08, 1-23-08, 1-30-08, 2-6-08, 2-13-08, 2-20-08, 2-27-08, 3-6-08, 3-26-08, 4-2-08, 4-9-08, 4-23-08, 4-30-08, 5-7-08, 5-14-08
   
• Spanish Vocabulary Words
  2nd Qtr, 3rd Qtr, 4th Qtr

The Lower School facilities on the 25-acre DeRenne Avenue campus include a classroom building, resource building, music/art room, computer lab, media center, gym and cafeteria.

Both campuses have large playgrounds with a variety of equipment as well as ample space.

E.D.E.N. is a 176-acre outdoor education center located on the Chatham Parkway campus. Forest, fields, marshes, ponds and extensive trails provide a hands-on approach to science and other disciplines for all students.
 

Grades PK, K, 1 and 2
   S = Satisfactory
   N = Needs Improvement
   U = Unsatisfactory
   I = Improving

Grades 3, 4 and 5
   A = 90-100 Superior
   B = 80-89 Above Average
   C = 75-79 Average
   D = 70-74 Below Average
   F = Below 70 Failure
 

Prekindergarten - 18
Kindergarten - 21
First - 22
Second - 23
Third-Fifth - 24

Formal Bible class is taught weekly. In these classes, the Bible itself is the textbook. Bible class is not an interjection of personal beliefs or an exploration of doctrine but an opportunity for students to learn the history contained in the Bible and how to apply scriptures to everyday life. With the many denominations represented by the students, discussions in Bible class can be lively, covering a wide range of concerns; however, the ultimate goal is for each student to explore a personal relationship with God. Students memorize scripture weekly.

Weekly chapel programs extend the religion curriculum. These programs draw on a both community resources and faculty and student talents.
 

Teachers also have Internet access and many teachers have laptops. A Computer Aide, Teachers, Technology Coordinator and a Technology Director are available for support and provide teachers with necessary training.