Every parent has questions about kindergarten. Will my child be surrounded by nurturing teachers? Will they make friends? Will they be challenged to learn as much as they can? Can they continue at this school through 12th grade?
At Portland Christian Schools, the answer to all of those questions is yes.
We look at each grade level as a transition. College preparation begins in kindergarten at PCS, where we provide students with age-appropriate, hands-on activities and begin teaching the classroom skills your child needs to be a successful first grader.
Most importantly, our teachers see students through the eyes of Christ, which means we value each and every student at each and every stage.
Keep reading to learn how the Portland Christian environment can bring out the best in your child.
CONSIDERING A SCHOOL CHANGE?
Take a closer look with our Parent Info Packet
An Active Learning Approach That Engages Children
In kindergarten, you want your child to begin building a solid academic foundation and encourage their natural curiosity. That’s why our teachers use as much hands-on and collaborative learning as possible to make lessons active and engaging.
We want to make sure your child can focus on their lessons because we’re setting the stage for:
- A lifetime of healthy relationships
- A faith that’s rock-solid
- A college-prep education
Our students’ needs — academic, emotional, and spiritual — are addressed through chapel, service opportunities, our rigorous curriculum, and our Christ-based social-emotional learning.
At PCS, you don’t have to choose between the right curriculum or character development.
Here, your child will have both.
A Schedule Full of Lessons and Play
Kindergarten Daily Schedule
What does a day in the life of a kindergartner at PCS look like? Classes are held from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., and children are welcome to arrive anytime between 8 and 8:30 a.m. to enjoy extra recess time before school starts.
Here’s a sample of a daily schedule:
- Morning
- Welcome
- Academics: Bible, math, reading, writing, science and social studies
- Recess
- Snack
- Academics
- Lunch
- Recess (30 minutes)
- Recess (30 minutes)
- Afternoon
- Specials: Spanish, art, music, PE, media (library and computers)
- Academics
- Recess
- Bible
- Wrap-up
Extended Care
Our before and after school program provides children with an opportunity for extra activities, which include play, homework time, crafts, and athletics.
- 6:30 to 8 a.m.
- 3 to 6 p.m.
Questions? Let’s get them answered.
We look forward to getting to know you and helping your family navigate this exciting time.
“Within days of our daughter starting kindergarten,
it seemed like every staff member knew her by name. Our daughter has developed a love for learning. We couldn’t believe how quickly she went from not reading to reading chapter books. Now in first grade she gets excited about interesting things she learns in books, and she loves the science experiments they get to do.”
— The Holland Family
A Curriculum for the Whole Child
At PCS, we intentionally keep our class sizes small so we can promote a safe and fun learning environment. Teachers truly know their students and can encourage their unique skills and talents.
A Complete Curriculum
Our curriculum addresses all the subjects your child will need for a successful school career and teaches social skills to help them throughout life.
At the kindergarten level, core subject areas include:
- Math, using BJU Press
- Science, using FOSS
- Writing and reading, using Zaner-Bloser Superkids
- Bible, using Purposeful Design
- Social studies, using Studies Weekly
- Physical education
- Art
- Music
- Spanish
- Media (library and computers)
Responsible Screen Time
Kindergarten students are able to occasionally use iPads and a smart TV so that they have access to interactive learning tools. All screens are monitored in real-time, and we model and teach respectful, God-honoring use of technology.
A Safe Environment, Physically and Emotionally
PCS follows modern safety practices, such as a fenced campus, cameras, and background checks. We require all staff members and volunteers to complete adult-youth contact training, and our teachers and administrators take equity training to ensure we’re serving people of all races and ethnicities in an honoring and loving way.
Meet a Teacher
NAME: Amy Felton
Degree: BS and Master of Arts in Teaching from Concordia University, Oregon
Experience: Kindergarten teacher, employed with PCS since 2015
Looking for the best Christian school in Portland, OR, for your kindergartener?
Come see our 5-acre campus and experience our close-knit, caring community for yourself.