In a liberal arts education, the study of the language arts is the foundation of the trivium (consisting of grammar, logic, and rhetoric) and all higher learning. Therefore, we greatly value and carefully instruct language and all its characteristics, from handwriting (and cursive) to phonics, spelling rules, correct pronunciation, vocabulary acquisition, fluent reading, thoughtful interaction with the written word, parts of speech, Latin, and writing through imitation. Beginning in third grade and going through eighth grade, students are required to take Latin. We believe that language is a gift of God and a primary means of His communication to us as well as our communication to the world and the world to us; therefore, all we do in the grammar school emphasizes learning language and its effective, eloquent, confident delivery.
Besides the weight of value placed on language, we also engage in learning arithmetic through discovery and delight, knowing that God has displayed His wonders in nature and the cosmos in the common language of mathematics.
Our students study history, science, and Bible with an understanding that a loving Creator calls to us by all means. Our students are immersed in Bible stories, literature, and history units which culminate in elaborate formative celebrations intended to shape their souls.
Kindergarten and First-Grade Readiness
School readiness is defined as the “ability to cope, learn, and achieve without undue stress.” Being able to recite the alphabet or count is not the same as having the developmental processing skills and maturation needed for success in school. School readiness and intellectual capacity (IQ) do not necessarily correlate. Each child is a unique human being who grows and develops at his/her own pace.
Kindergarten entrance begins with an enrollment application which will lead to a standardized kindergarten entrance screening (The Brigance). Potential students must be five years old by August 1, pass the entrance screening, and show maturity, interest, and the ability to attend to task during the screening which is conducted by one of our kindergarten teachers.
The kindergarten and first-grade readiness lists (linked below) are intended to help you prepare your child for kindergarten or first grade at FCA. Please read these documents before making the final decision about your child’s readiness.