During elementary school, Kindergarten through 5th grade students receive dedicated Music instruction and Art instruction each week. These classes serve as a starting point for discovering students’ interests and talents and provide a foundation for continuing in our Middle & High School Fine Arts Program.
Music
At Portland Christian Schools, we view music as a gift from God to be shared and enjoyed. Elementary students take weekly music classes with a certified instructor, exploring a variety of experiences, from group singing and instrument study to music theory, history, and composition. They also engage in ear training and explore diverse genres, including spirituals, folk songs, opera, and music from various cultures.
Throughout the year, students have many opportunities to showcase their musical talents, including the annual Christmas program, talent show chapels (optional), grade-level chapels, and performances for Grandparents Day and Pastor Appreciation. Fourth graders perform in a recorder concert, while fifth graders present a Broadway-style “STOMP” performance.
By the time they finish Elementary School, our students understand the heart of worship behind music and are prepared to advance their skills in Band or Choir at the Middle School level.
Band
In 4th and 5th grades, students can choose Beginning Band, where they learn to play instruments as a group. The elementary band performs several times throughout the year and joins the middle and high school bands for a combined spring performance.
Visual Arts
Our elementary visual arts program emphasizes that God is the ultimate creator. Students explore their creativity through basic design principles, study famous artists and art styles, and learn how art is a language for communication. They also explore art history and cultural expressions, while being encouraged to reflect God’s character in their art.
Students work with various mediums, including clay, collage, fabric painting, sketching, sewing, and watercolor, and have access to a maker space for hands-on projects. Artwork is displayed throughout the year, with each student having one or more pieces featured in a spring showcase. Students may also be encouraged to enter community art shows.
Theater Arts
Elementary theater arts at Portland Christian provide 4th and 5th grade students with an exciting introduction to drama and performance within a faith-based setting. Through participation in and staging of a Christ-centered musical each spring, students develop foundational skills in public speaking, creative expression, and teamwork. Theater arts at this level spark an early interest in the dramatic arts, encouraging students to discover their unique talents and interests while learning how to work collaboratively with peers.