Curriculum Enhancements

Character First!

Character First! is for grades K-5 and complements the Moral Focus Curriculum.  Character First! focuses on one character quality each month and lessons include history and nature stories, songs, crafts, and memory work for each character quality.  Through this engaging mode of learning, we emphasize each character quality in a memorable way to help the students understand and develop that personal character trait at their age level.

Saxon Math

Saxon Math was developed using a unique approach to math instruction that ensures a student's ability to gain and retain essential math skills. Saxon Math uses a hands-on approach to the main concepts that are taught within the classroom today. Saxon also allows teachers to give instruction, practice, and assessments throughout the school year. Instruction of complex concepts are broken down into smaller, more recognizable pieces of information that are easier to teach and to learn. In Saxon, each new lesson incorporates past concepts taught for continuing practice and achievement. The Saxon Math method begins in our primary education rooms and continues through eighth grade.

Spanish

Every student that attends KGA receives instruction in Spanish. Students learn to gain an appreciation for the language and culture of our neighbors to the south. Younger students utilize songs and dramatic play to learn the language and culture. Older students learn the importance of conversational skills, correct punctuation, vocabulary, grammar, reading, and composition.

Hands-on Exploratory Science

Following the Core Knowledge^® sequence of learning, each grade level is introduced to various topics throughout the year. Our hands-on science classes incorporate the use of technology and literature in our daily activities. Students are able to explore Internet websites dedicated to scientific studies, use computer programmed microscopes, and participate in dissection activities which are arranged during our exploration of the human body. Students will discuss topics such as: weather, the human body, light, sound, magnetism, astronomy, plants, animals and their needs, chemistry, and physics. Also, each student is able to participate in our annual Science Fair in the spring! This fun and educational project encourages students to research a topic relating to a specific field of study and present his/her findings to their classmates and families after school. Lights, camera, action! Students from all grade levels have come to love this exciting event.

Handwriting without Tears^®

For our early learners who struggle with conventional methods of handwriting instruction, Handwriting without Tears^® targets individual needs for students who wish to improve their written work. Handwriting without Tears^® allows for the writing utensil to stay on the paper longer, allowing for less stop and go movement. It encourages various writing styles for each letter and promotes the foundation for cursive.

Technology

Come and explore our state of the art technology lab! Students learn to use and understand the newest software, hardware, and audio-visual equipment. Students become proficient in typing, Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Internet functions. Students have the opportunity to participate in Web Design courses, Business Profiles, and Claymation. Students have access to scanners, digital cameras, and a portable mobile cart computer system.