ACA offers an engaging, biblically-based elementary education for kindergarten through fifth graders. Teachers use research-based methods that prepare students for 21st-century life. Students learn to navigate the 4 C’s of 21st-century learning: collaboration, communication, critical thinking, and creativity. Flexible seating arrangements and the use of centers promote collaboration. Communication and critical thinking skills develop through group discussion and public speaking opportunities beyond the classroom. STEM activities stimulate interest in the sciences but also encourage creativity and problem-solving. Social-emotional maturity is developed by intentionally helping students work through emotions, communication issues, and conflict resolution using the brain-based program, Conscious Discipline. The classroom atmosphere at ACA is joyful, respectful, and promotes a good work ethic.
ACA maintains small student-to-teacher ratios, with a 13:1 average class size. Smaller class sizes allow teachers to focus on each student and their individual needs – getting to know personal interests, strengths, struggles, and learning styles. In addition, a critical aspect of education at ACA is discipleship – teachers serving as mentors to students who are growing in their walk with Christ. This happens best in a smaller setting where there is freedom to engage, even at a moment’s notice, and share insight, encouragement, or prayer.
ACA addresses the development of the whole child. Teachers use an Honorable Character system to help students see their conscious decisions and focus on what they can do positively in their lives and those around them. Teachers “catch” students exhibiting an outstanding character trait and record it on an Honorable Character chart. Characteristics are biblically-based and include Honor, Wisdom, Self-Control, Initiative, Service, Responsibility, and more. Students are encouraged to be physically active and given opportunities for movement throughout the day. Elementary students participate in Physical Education, Music, and Spanish “specials”. Extracurricular activities cultivate well-rounded students. ACA offers competitive basketball, cross country, 4-H, academic competitions, and more.
Everybody’s favorite time is JAM on Fridays. – Jesus and Me chapel time. Students worship through song, recite verses as a class, pray, and receive a Bible lesson. It is an expressive time with fun, upbeat songs and sincere music designed to draw students and adults into reverent worship. We encourage parents to join us for Jam, demonstrating the importance of family involvement and allowing children to see a multi-generational approach to worship.
A curriculum plan for each grade is accessible in the classroom. Please contact a teacher to view these.