About

Forest Lake Christian Elementary School integrates Christian principles into every aspect of the curriculum. Students gain a solid foundation of learning skills, strong moral values, and positive character qualities. The curriculum, qualified teachers, and caring environment provide an excellent atmosphere where children can reach their greatest potential. 

Parents, Guardians, and Families

Parents and guardians are viewed as partners in the educational process. Frequent communication, as well as parent-teacher conferences each semester, foster opportunities to collaborate. Parents are encouraged to be involved in their children’s education by volunteering in the classroom and engaging in school activities. 

Opportunities to participate in Association of Christian Schools sponsored activities, our Christmas program, piano lessons, and Grandparents Day enrich the experience for children and their families. Teamwork, positive interactions, healthy friendships, and fun are encouraged as students learn and grow in a peaceful, safe environment.

 

Curriculum

The elementary curriculum is multifaceted to cover not only core subjects but also enrichment programs and activities. Grade level bench marks have been developed and implemented that exceed state standards. The curriculum is designed to develop the whole student academically, socially, and physically.

Bible

Daily Bible classes with discussions are conducted from a non-denominational viewpoint. The relevance of the Bible to the students’ daily lives is constantly demonstrated. Students grow their roots deep in Christ and are taught the moral precepts of the Bible not only in class but also throughout the day in every endeavor.

Computers

A dedicated computer lab and technology curriculum is part of the elementary school program. Classes have scheduled computer time with instruction appropriate to the grade level. Students in first through fourth grade learn general computer skills. Students in fifth grade focus on using the computer as a word processor as part of their writing program.

English, Grammar, and Reading

Elements of English grammar and usage for spoken and written language are emphasized in the curriculum. Speaking and writing in complete sentences, singular and plural subjects and verbs, punctuation, and parts of speech are mastered. Weekly library time allows students to check out and enjoy a variety of wholesome literature.

It is essential that all students are equipped with reading skills, therefore, a phonetic approach to reading is emphasized in the lower elementary grades. In grades TK through third, our students are learning to read. In grades fourth and above, our students read to learn. Becoming a fluent and skillful reader requires extensive engagement with the English language, including understanding the sounds and symbols that makeup language, hearing, talking about stories and events, and connecting words with ideas to express emotion. Reading materials that build character, have literary value, and are patriotic in nature are selected for all grade levels.

History and Geography

Students learn the names and cultural backgrounds of countries throughout the world during various grades. Map reading and geography skills are learned at each grade level. In the third grade, students learn the names of the states and capitals of the United States.

American heritage and the history of the ages from a Judeo-Christian perspective is emphasized. Patriotism and appreciation for the Christian foundations of the United States are developed throughout the grade levels. A study of missions and an appreciation of various cultures throughout the world are encouraged. Projects such as the California missions and study of a particular country are highlighted in various grade levels.

Mathematics

Benchmarks for each grade level include a conceptual understanding of key ideas and memorization of mathematical functions to give students the knowledge and skills to be prepared for mathematics at each grade level, in college, in career, and for life. Learning math content, using math to solve problems, and demonstrating abstract ideas through the use of manipulatives allow students to develop habits that foster memory and understanding of mathematical concepts.

Physical Education

Instruction in physical education is included in the curriculum. The program begins with organized exercise, coordination, and playground activities for the lower grades. Exercising, body coordination skills, and instruction in the rules and skills for a variety of sports are introduced in the upper-grade levels.

Science

The curriculum teaches science from a Biblical, creationist viewpoint. Understanding the scientific method and hands-on science experiences are emphasized throughout the curriculum. Projects, labs, and special events add a variety of experiences and engage students in the learning process.

Spelling and Writing

Spelling is taught in a sequential, phonetic program and vocabulary is included in weekly review and quizzes. Oral, as well as written spelling, is introduced in the early grades. Composition and writing are introduced in the early grades and each student has the opportunity to organize thoughts and present them in written form. Cursive writing is taught in the third grade. Beginning in the third and fourth grades, students learn to diagram the entire sentence structure for both simple and complex sentences. The fifth grade curriculum instructs students in essay writing and the various components of a successful essay.

 

Transitional Kindergarten and
Kindergarten Program

The age of enrollment for Kindergarten is five years of age by September 1 or upon assessment.

The age of enrollment for Transitional Kindergarten (TK) is five years of age by January 31 or upon assessment. TK Children that fall outside this age window may be considered following review and evaluation.  These children will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Our goal in Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Kindergarten is to create an interactive learning experience for young children that enables them to thrive spiritually, academically, socially, and emotionally. Having personally experienced God’s amazing love and grace in our own lives, we deeply desire for our students to experience this as they spend time in our classrooms. We craft learning experiences that are hands-on and reach children with all learning modalities. No matter what concept your child is exploring, God is always at the center. Your child will grow in so much more than just academics.

Children engage in small-group differentiated instruction in both language arts and math. The children enjoy learning collaboratively about God through scientific exploration, investigations of people and historical events, and how God has shaped our nation. Children have the opportunity to begin learning Spanish through singing and interactive games. Art and music are integrated into our daily learning activities. Our passion as teachers is to inspire a love of Jesus that will be transformative in this next generation of world-changers. We desire that they will begin to reflect His character as they grow in Christ. The culture of our classrooms is service-minded and filled with love and joy.