Elementary
Students in grades one through seven receive a Christ-centered education. With an emphasis on academic and spiritual development, our rigorous curriculum encourages students to grow their faith by maximizing their own unique gifts and talents. Together, with the family, we prepare our students for success in the classroom and beyond by encouraging a deep understanding of Gods great love for them.
Elementary doors open at 8:35am; classes begin at 8:45am with dismissal at 3:50pm. Before and after school extended care is available for all students.
Curriculum:
Religion- Concordia Publishing House’s One in Christ curriculum is used to explore God’s Word. Students learn about sin, forgiveness, and grace while focusing on the actions of God on behalf of his people. The curriculum centers on Christ so that students will have optimal opportunities to grow in their faith and Christian lives.
Saxon Math- The math curriculum provides an interactive experience with an emphasis on problem solving to promote critical thinking. A strength of this curriculum is that it revisits previous material while mixing in new concepts.
Reading- First grade focuses on phonics as reading develops. They continue the Saxon Reading that was begun in kindergarten. In second grade and following, students have guided, shared, and independent reading opportunities. Students discuss elements of literature and study different genres. The Accelerated Reader program provides individualized reading curriculum for each student.
Shurley English- This English program promotes learning through rhythmic interaction. Students diagram and evaluate sentence structure and the mechanics of proper word placement. Emphasis is on grammar, spelling, oral language, the writing process, and vocabulary.
Science- The Battle Creek Science curriculum encourages students to engage in physical science, life science, earth science, and inquiry and technology. Students carry out investigations, talk and write about their observations and emerging understandings, and discuss ways to test them.
Social Studies- Students begin by studying the relationships of people to God, to each other, and the world in which they live. As students progress they acquire map skills, study regions of the U.S., and learn some history. Students in third grade study Michigan history. Starting in fourth grade, students use TCI‘s social studies curriculum.
Technology- Computers are available in each classroom. In addition, students have instruction each week in the computer lab. Students are introduced to basic Microsoft applications such as Word and PowerPoint. Students practice keyboarding and learn general computer operations.
Spanish- Students in first through fourth grades use Santillana’s Nuevo Bravo Bravo curriculum and starting in fifth grade, students use Prentice Hall’s Realidades to speak, listen, write, and read in Spanish as well as to learn to appreciate Hispanic culture.
Physical Education- Fitness is emphasized with age-appropriate activities. Students are given basic instruction on lifetime sports, and fine and gross motor skills and coordination skills are practiced.
Art- Young artists experiment with media and techniques to create paintings, drawings, sculptures, and multi-media pieces in the manner of the masters. Student masterpieces are displayed in our spring Music and Art Fair.
Music- At SOTL we strive to instill love and appreciation for all types of music. Students grow their God-given abilities and talents through vocal and instrumental music. Students then share their gifts with others and in praise to our Savior. Students sing periodically in worship services, in the Christmas Cantata, and in our spring Music and Art Fair.
Some special education services are available.
