Lower School (Preschool - 4th)

Our Preschool is intentionally designed to give every child the strongest possible start. Through developmentally appropriate learning experiences, daily enrichment opportunities, and a Christ-centered environment.

As our program continues to grow, we are expanding opportunities that strengthen readiness, executive functioning, and early childhood development. Enhanced enrichment classes, innovative brain development initiatives, a partnership with Belmont University's Occupational Therapy Program, and a continued focus on literacy, independence, and self-regulation ensure every child is equipped with the academic foundation, learning habits, character, and Christ-centered values needed to thrive.

Learn More About NCS Preschool

Kindergarten is a foundational and formative year in which students begin to develop independence, confidence, and a love of learning. Our classrooms provide a nurturing, engaging environment where students are encouraged to explore, collaborate, and grow. Through a balance of structured learning and developmentally appropriate movement, such as centers, hands-on activities, and brain breaks, students build stamina while staying actively engaged throughout the day.

Academically, students develop early literacy and math skills through intentional, interactive instruction. In Language Arts, students learn letter recognition, phonemic awareness, and foundational reading and writing skills through small groups and literacy centers. In Math, they build number sense, counting, basic addition and subtraction, and an introduction to concepts such as shapes, time, and money. Science and Social Studies are taught through hands-on exploration, thematic units, and journaling, encouraging curiosity and observation. The Bible is woven throughout the day, teaching students about God's love: his creation and Christ-centered character through stories, scripture, and weekly memory verses.

Students also grow socially as they learn to work, play, and collaborate with others. Daily Physical Education, recess, and movement-based learning support both physical development and focus in the classroom. In addition, students participate in enrichment classes, including Art, Music, Spanish, Library, and Guidance, as well as special experiences such as field trips and interactive learning opportunities that bring their studies to life. 

First grade is an exciting year of growth as students build on their kindergarten foundation and develop greater independence, confidence, and mastery of key skills. Students grow rapidly in both reading and math, while also developing socially and emotionally. We are honored to guide this growth through a Biblical perspective, integrating faith into each part of the day.

Academically, students strengthen literacy through guided reading, focusing on phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Math instruction builds from single-digit fact fluency into place value, double-digit addition and subtraction, and concepts such as time, money, and measurement. Social Studies introduces state history, while Science explores patterns in nature. Learning is active and engaging, with hands-on activities, literacy centers, and movement integrated throughout the day. Technology supports learning through one-to-one iPads for reading, math practice, and skill reinforcement.

Beyond the classroom, students participate in meaningful experiences that bring learning to life, including field trips, special projects, and classroom celebrations. Opportunities for parent involvement, reading programs, and interactive activities help foster a love of learning while continuing to build independence and responsibility in each student.

Second grade is a year of meaningful growth as students gain independence and take greater responsibility for their learning. Students are encouraged to be active participants, listening, asking questions, and staying engaged while building the stamina to work independently for longer periods. Our classrooms are active and engaging, incorporating hands-on learning, movement, and collaboration through centers, small groups, and interactive activities.

Academically, students transition from "learning to read" to "reading to learn." Through guided reading and small-group instruction, they strengthen comprehension, use textual evidence, and set personal reading goals. In Math, students build fluency with addition and subtraction within 20, apply regrouping, and solve word problems while expanding their understanding of place value, time, money, measurement, and graphing. Science and Social Studies come to life through hands-on exploration, research projects, and real-world connections, including lab experiences, field trips, and presentations.

Faith is woven throughout each day as students grow in their understanding of God's Word and learn to reflect Christ in their actions, attitudes, and relationships. Through engaging lessons, collaborative experiences, and meaningful projects, second-grade students continue to grow academically, socially, and spiritually in a supportive, Christ-centered environment. 

Third grade is a pivotal transitional year as students are encouraged to grow in both independence and responsibility. With continued support and guidance, students begin to take greater ownership of their learning as they navigate increasing academic expectations and develop confidence in their abilities. This is also the first year letter grades are recorded across all subjects, marking an important step in their academic journey.

Academically, students strengthen their ability to read for understanding while continuing to grow as thoughtful, skilled readers. They set personal reading goals and learn to manage their time and progress. In Math, students build strong problem-solving skills through concepts such as multi-digit addition and subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, and geometry, with a focus on both practice and application. Science and Social Studies emphasize interactive, hands-on learning, introducing note-taking, research, and collaborative projects that deepen understanding of topics such as geography, cultures, and the world around them.

Communication and critical thinking are key areas of growth in third grade. Students develop their voice through writing, discussion, and group collaboration, learning to express ideas clearly and thoughtfully. Faith remains central, as students engage in Bible study, scripture memory, and lessons that highlight character traits such as obedience, perseverance, and trust. Through a balance of academics, collaboration, and spiritual development, third-grade students continue to grow into confident, capable learners prepared for the years ahead.

Fourth grade is a year of significant growth as students are challenged academically, spiritually, physically, and socially. With increasing expectations, students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning through organization, accountability, and independent thinking while continuing to build confidence in their abilities.

Academically, students engage in rigorous and meaningful learning across all subjects. In Math, they develop strong problem-solving skills through multi-digit multiplication, long division, fractions, and geometry. Language Arts focuses on novel studies, reading comprehension, vocabulary development, and creative writing. In Science and Social Studies, students strengthen note-taking and study skills while exploring U.S. History, data interpretation, and hands-on scientific inquiry. Learning extends beyond traditional methods through interactive labs and collaborative experiences.

Fourth grade is a distinctive year of leadership as students step into their role as the oldest students in Lower School. With greater responsibility comes meaningful opportunities to lead, including serving on Safety Patrol, leading chapel, mentoring younger students through Bible Buddies, and participating in service throughout the school community. These experiences allow students to practice servant leadership, model Christ-centered character, and understand the impact they can have on others. As they prepare for Middle School, fourth graders leave Lower School not only as stronger students, but as confident leaders ready to serve.

PE

Every student in Kindergarten through fourth grade participates in Physical Education daily. The program is designed to build the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed for a lifetime of healthy activity. Through age-appropriate experiences such as cooperative games, fitness, dance, and sports, students develop physically while learning the importance of teamwork, sportsmanship, respect, and responsibility.

Art

All students attend visual arts weekly, where creativity is nurtured as a reflection of being made in God's image. Students explore a variety of artistic styles, cultures, and mediums while learning the elements of art and principles of design. Lessons often connect to other subjects, reinforcing learning across disciplines, while exposure to both historical and contemporary artists inspires their work. Students have opportunities to showcase their creativity through events such as Grandparents' Day and Spring Fling.

Music

Students attend Music class weekly, building skills progressively each year. By the end of fourth grade, students develop the ability to read music, understand rhythm, and play a variety of instruments. Through singing, games, and performance opportunities, students also learn about influential composers and musicians. Weekly "campfire worship" provides a meaningful time for students to gather in praise, reminding them that music is ultimately an expression of worship.

Spanish

Spanish is offered weekly for all Kindergarten through fourth-grade students, with a curriculum that builds year to year. Instruction begins with a foundational review and progresses through a multi-sensory approach that incorporates visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learning. In addition to language development, students explore the cultures and traditions of Spanish-speaking countries, broadening their global awareness and appreciation.

School Counseling

All Lower School students have access to school counseling through classroom lessons and individual support. In Kindergarten and first grade, structured lessons focus on building foundational social-emotional skills. In second through fourth grade, counseling support is tailored to meet each class's needs. Individual check-ins are available as needed to provide guidance and support as students grow socially, emotionally, and relationally.