Academics
Curriculum
Our curriculum is centered around the Word of God. The primary focus on traditional subjects of math, history, science, and language arts, are taught from a biblical perspective. We teach students how to problem-solve and encourage independence. They are challenged to think innovatively when seeking solutions. We help students to discover how they learn and retain knowledge to prepare them for life’s challenges and an ever-changing world. We live daily in an environment of respect for one another and our world. We search for answers through prayer and God’s Word when challenges arise.
Our blended, multi-grade classrooms allow for expedited learning, retention, and mastery of the curricula. In each class, the older students receive instruction in the presence of the younger students and the younger students receive instruction in the presence of the older students. This dichotomy allows for the younger students to be exposed to more advanced concepts while also allowing the older students to review and recall prior learning. Our students consistently perform above the national average in all subject areas during standardized assessments.
Classes
Preschool
- Ages 2.9 to 5 years
- 3, 4, and 5-day options
- Half Day (8:00-11:45) or Full Day (8:00-2:45)
- Zoo-phonics language arts program
- Hands-on learning focusing on Spiritual, Social-emotional, Physical, Language, Cognitive, Literacy, Math, Science, Music, and Art development.
- Reading Buddies with the Middle Room
Teachers
Heather Allison
Preschool Director
Melissa Swanson
Preschool Assistant
Preschool is the wonderful beginning of your child’s school experience. We believe that each child has been uniquely and wonderfully made by our Creator God. They are loved beyond measure by our Heavenly Father. Therefore, keeping each Preschooler’s individuality and personality in mind, we focus on their individual interests and needs. We provide a safe and nurturing environment where they can play, learn, grow and develop to their full potential.
Little Room
- Kindergarten – 2nd Grade
- Daily Bible lessons on stories from the Bible and God’s love for us
- Phonics-based reading instruction
- Purposeful Design mathematics
- Creative and Movement-based learning
- Learning together in a family atmosphere
Teacher
Dori Drenth
K – 2nd Grade
Kindergarten, first, and second grades are fondly called the Little Room. Although the students are “little”, big things happen in these three years. The students enter as kindergarten students with limited knowledge of letters and numbers but leave second grade as proficient readers, creative writers, and mathematicians who can add and subtract large numbers with confidence. They build friendships across age groups and help each other to learn and explore. All subjects are taught through a Biblical perspective.
Middle Room
- 3rd – 5th Grade
- Daily Bible study focusing on Old Testament History and the Miracles of Jesus
- Purposeful Design mathematics
- Grammar, spelling, mechanics, and multiple writing genres
- History of Michigan, the United States, and the Ancient World
- Computer Science
- Foreign Language: Japanese
- Weekly Instrumental Music (Ukulele, Recorder, or Bucket Drumming)
Teacher
Dr. Sarah Aungst
3rd – 5th Grade
The Middle Room is a blend of 3rd, 4th, and 5th graders. It is our “transition room”. We still do fun activities like the Littles, but now we tie our shoes and use the microwave on our own– somewhere in between the computer coding and Japanese! We toughen our independent work skills, meaning students have a good blend of time with the teacher, with small groups, and on their own.
Bible lessons in the Middle Room usually generate a lot of questions. We know why Noah built the Ark, but did God really have to tell him to bring the mosquitos? How can I show people the love and kindness that Jesus wants me to show them? We mark verses in our Bible (which the school provides for our kiddos to use and take with them when they finish 5th grade) and work on committing God’s word to our hearts through study and memorization.
Big Room
- 6th – 8th Grade
- Daily Bible study exploring God’s word and Biblical truths
- Purposeful Design mathematics
- Emphasis on becoming leaders and thinkers
- Preparation for higher learning through vigorous study styles
- Practicing the process of analyzing and connecting learning concepts across all subjects with real-world experiences
- DARE & Willing to Wait
Teacher & Administrator
Pam Bekkering
6th – 8th Grade
Welcome to the Big Room family! We are thrilled to have your child with us at our school. The Big Room is an exciting place for students to learn, grow, and develop essential life skills for a successful future.
In our classrooms, we explore various learning styles and strategies to cater to each student’s unique needs. This approach provides students with the opportunity to acquire skills that will not only help them academically but also in areas such as time management, study habits, self-discipline, and other vital life skills crucial for their future success.
My ultimate goal is to equip each student with a wide range of skills, ensuring they feel prepared for the next stages of their educational journey. I embrace mistakes as valuable learning opportunities, and every lesson is carefully crafted from a Christian perspective.
Hours
Mon – Fri
8:00 am — 2:45 pm
Sat-Sun
Closed
