 The NCS kindergarten curriculum is very academic in nature while remaining developmentally appropriate. Students have a one hour rest time in the afternoon. Parents may choose to have their child participate in extra-curricular activities during this time for an additional fee. These activities are listed on page 17. Student-teacher ratio is low, allowing for one-on-one interaction and individualized attention. Small learning groups encourage students to participate in lessons and centers.
Bible
The Biblical Choices for a New Generation curriculum is designed specifically for private Christian schools. Students study Old Testament stories in the fall and New Testament stories in the spring. Weekly memory verses help students “hide God’s Word” in their hearts. Bible crafts are done weekly, encouraging students to be artistic and creative with the gifts God has provided them while reinforcing the concepts of the lesson. NCS does not teach a particular doctrine, but simply focuses on the stories read directly from the Bible.
Reading Readiness
The Neuhaus Reading Readiness curriculum place students into small groups for direct instruction in the English alphabet. Word play, patterns, songs and hands-on activities are utilized to ensure all students master the skills of the alphabet, which is the foundation for reading. Memorization of the 11 Dolch sight word lists is highly recommended during the spring semester. Students who are academically ready are encouraged to participate in the Accelerated Reader program.
Guided Reading
Students who are ready for more advanced reading challenges are able to participate in guided reading groups using the Wright Group’s Gear Up! guided reading series. This series teaches a good balance of fiction and non-fiction selections using leveled readers. It is our policy at NCS to provide opportunities for students to excel in the areas in which they are ready to be academically challenged.
Fluency
The Wright Group’s Fluency First program is taught in the spring semester of kindergarten. This program is based on The Fluency Development Lesson, which was highly researched by Drs. Timothy Rasinski and Nancy Padak of Kent State University. Daily lessons use simple and brief reading selections. Students practice these lessons multiple times before performing for their peers. Teachers assess students on reading rate, accuracy, expression, volume, clarity, eye contact and gestures. Vocabulary, fluency, comprehension and word recognition skills are the focus of this entertaining and motivating curriculum.
English
The Houghton Mifflin English program for kindergarten is age-appropriate, utilizing centers, bulletin boards, and small groups for instruction. Students are taught skills that form the basic foundation for writing and communication. Parts of speech, rhyming words, listening, and basic sentences are introduced. Modeled writing prepares the students for the higher-level writing of personal narratives, descriptions, stories, instructions, and reports.
Writing
Colorful oral language and enriching vocabulary provide a basic foundation for future writing skills. Houghton Mifflin’s English series introduces students to various types of writing based on teacher modeling. Correct letter formation and good penmanship are stressed at this crucial stage of development. Storybook Weaver software allows students to create their own stories with full-color illustrations on the computer.
Math
The Houghton Mifflin Math Expressions curriculum guides students to an understanding of patterns, shapes and relationships to build a foundation for higher level math. Manipulatives provide a developmentally appropriate method for reinforcing the concepts being taught.
Science
The kindergarten science curriculum is teacher-created and includes many hands-on activities that are engaging and age-appropriate. Short units focus on areas that are interesting and relevant to the students. Seasonal topics are included. The science curriculum is taught from a Christian perspective.
Social Studies
The social studies curriculum for kindergarten is teacher-created to meet the needs of students at this age. Certain topics coincide with the seasons so that they are relevant to the students. Basic globe and map skills are taught, along with patriotic symbols. Native Americans and Pilgrims are the focus for the fall season. Students also learn the concept of families, communities, community helpers and basic safety practices. Christian values are included in this curriculum.
Music
Musicplay for kindergarten by Denise Gagne, published in 2003, helps students learn to distinguish between the speaking and singing voice. Movement is a key aspect of this curriculum. Students learn to enjoy listening to different types of music. They also gain the experience of performing their newly-learned skills in front of an audience. Kindergarten students participate in a spring musical each year.
Art
Art is integrated into the regular classroom curriculum. Bible crafts and seasonal art projects allow students to be creative on a weekly basis. Students enjoy making Christmas crafts during the holiday season. Special projects include Rodeo Art drawings for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and a family heritage art project for Multicultural Week.
Physical Education
The elementary Physical Education program was developed by SPARK (Sports, Play and Active Recreation for Kids) and is taught by two highly-qualified coaches who have many years of teaching and coaching experience. P.E. classes are designed to develop skills that enhance learning in the classroom. All students participate in 30 minutes of P.E. daily. Classes are taught in the school’s gymnasium and are highly structured in nature. Our belief is that daily physical activity is essential for good health and well-being. Kindergarten students focus on balancing skills and tumbling. Large-motor and fine-motor skills are further developed through various games and activities.
Computer/Technology
Kindergarten students are introduced to computer basics designated by the NETS (National Educational Technology Standards). Fundamental computer terminology becomes more familiar to students as they experience lessons integrated into their regular classroom studies. Students have facilitated time to use individual computers in the school’s computer lab. Storybook Weaver software by RiverDeep is a kindergarten favorite that allows students to perfect their writing skills using basic technology. Classroom computers allow students to use educational software to develop math and alphabet skills.
Junior Achievement
NCS participates in the Junior Achievement Program. Trained community volunteers present five lessons during the spring semester. Students are exposed to personal economics through a collection of short stories read aloud by the volunteer. Children learn the role of self and of appreciating individual differences. They are introduced to the concept of money, spending and saving. They also learn to recognize the importance of working together. Lessons are designed around the TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills).
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