The Lower School Experience

At CCA, we believe the earliest years of a child’s education should be filled with discovery, joy, and purpose. In a safe and nurturing environment, our students build a strong foundation for intellectual, social, and spiritual growth. Through our distinctly Christian, inquiry-based learning model, young learners are encouraged to ask questions, explore new ideas, and make real-world connections—all while developing Christ-centered character, curiosity, and confidence.

In the Lower School, we focus on reaching and responding to each individual child in a manner that cultivates future academic success while also allowing for personal growth in an environment of compassion. We believe in the importance of educating the whole child – emphasizing academic growth while also nurturing their social, emotional, physical, and spiritual development. Our students gain the skills necessary to be confident, curious, independent, and self-aware young people, who will be good stewards of the broader world around them.

Are they being challenged enough?
Do they have the support they need?
What is the right environment to shape who they are becoming — academically, spiritually, and socially?

In these early school years, your child is developing their view of education. They are reading chapter books, learning to make friends, and managing their own homework folders. They are growing in every way — and that growth comes with new questions:

At CCA, our Lower School program for students in grades 1 through 4 is designed with each one of these three questions in mind. These are the years when children begin to discover how they learn, how they lead, and how faith connects with everyday life. From learning about multiplication to exploring science, students are maturing in real and measurable ways. 

Our unique educational model, The CCA Way, ensures that your child is taught with intention and care, in an environment that balances academic challenge with encouragement.

Curriculum

Our curriculum is the highly respected Bob Jones Curriculum. It provides Christ-centered instruction in all subject areas, helping students develop a biblical worldview as they grow intellectually. Our   curriculum, culture, and community all support our biblical worldview and focus on making sure our students are prepared academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.

The Bob Jones Curriculum builds a strong foundation for higher-level work in core disciplines like math, science, English, and social studies. Through small group instruction and one-on-one conferencing, teachers lovingly guide and mentor each student, recognizing their unique strengths and helping them navigate any challenges they may encounter along their educational journey.

In addition, students in each Lower School grade undertake sustained exhibitions of mastery that develop skills that are particularly vital in today’s knowledge economy, such as critical thinking, creativity, and a love for the arts. Students meet regularly with specialty teachers for engaging lessons in art, music, science, library, Spanish, and PE.

Our academic program is designed to engage students actively in the learning process. 

At CCA, the teachers in the early years engage students, spark curiosity, introduce concepts, and develop an early love for learning.  Triggering inquiry in our students sets them on the right path to carry them all the way through college and beyond. These are the years when learning habits take root and a child’s view of the world begins to take shape.

Administrator’s Reading Challenge

At CCA, every student is required to read one book per month—nine books each school year. But that’s just the beginning. Our administrator challenges every student to go further: one book each week. Many rise to the challenge, and some even read more than 200 books in a single school year.

Like them or not, Warren Buffett, Bill Gates, Mark Cuban, Elon Musk, and Mark Zuckerberg are among the most influential leaders in the world. Who are they? Titans of Wall Street, Microsoft, Shark Tank, Tesla, SpaceX, and Facebook.

What do they all have in common? They are relentless readers. Warren Buffett spends nearly 80% of his day reading. Mark Cuban devotes more than three hours daily to it. Bill Gates reads more than a book a week.

In the same way, we pray that our students will be shaped by Jesus into leaders who make a lasting impact. But to lead well,  one must be well informed—and that requires reading. That’s why Dr. Mills challenges each student to take on The Administrator’s Reading Challenge: read one book each week during the school year.

Those who complete the challenge are honored as Administrator’s Reading Challenge Winners—earning not only an award but also a special day of fun and adventure at a fun location.

Faith is foundational

Students begin each day studying the Bible and participate in weekly chapel. Both teachers and the Bob Jones Curriculum integrate biblical truth into lessons and conversations, helping children form a Christ-centered view of themselves and the world.

science, and social studies builds a strong academic foundation. Students work on grammar notebooks, fluency drills, and creative writing projects that grow in complexity each year.

All CCA students in K5 and above are required to read one book each month, nine during the school year.  Knowing that readers are leaders, and leaders are readers, students are encouraged to read one book per week and many do.  All who do are taken for a day of fun at an appropriate location at the end of the year.  Some students will eagerly read two hundred or more books during the school year.

Learning that is fun and brings joy

Students participate in hands-on science labs, book-based projects, and grade-level field trips that tie into curriculum themes. These moments build community, strengthen classroom culture, and make learning memorable. It’s part of helping students love learning and love where they learn.

Learning Students take responsibility for their learning is fun and brings joy

By third grade, students begin managing planners and practicing study strategies. Teachers coach students on how to organize materials, complete long-term projects, and develop personal accountability.

Teachers Who Understand This Stage

Lower School faculty are not only experts in their subjects — they’re experts in this age group. They know when to push, when to pause, and how to help each student take ownership of their learning. Classroom routines are designed for consistency, structure, and independence, with warmth woven in.

Communication That Builds Trust

Families stay informed and connected through weekly newsletters, classroom apps, and open conversations with teachers. Parent-teacher partnerships are strong because they’re built on respect and shared goals.

Come for a Tour

We consider it an honor to partner with your family during your children’s lower school years. We foster a safe and supportive atmosphere where students can form lasting friendships, develop a sense of belonging, and thrive. Come see how we can help your child thrive. Touring CCA is the best way to see if CCA is the right place for your family. You’ll get answers to all of your questions and experience our school culture for yourself.