The early years of schooling set the stage for every student’s academic journey. We understand that you want your child in an environment where they will experience joyful learning as they grow academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.
The Primary grades at Portsmouth Christian Academy helps students build strong foundations for future learning in an environment where they feel known and loved. From kindergarten to second grade, differentiated instruction is vital to student success. We meet children where they are and provide them with the individualized attention they need and deserve.
Learn more about the opportunities your child will have at PCA.
What will my child be doing in the Primary Grades?
Each day begins with a Morning Meeting, where students hear a Bible story, pray for one another, and develop an understanding of Christian character traits.
Weekly events such as “Show and Tell” and “Student of the Week” help students learn to express themselves and build self-esteem.
A phonics-based approach to reading fosters an amazing transformation as students progress from learning to read in kindergarten to reading to learn in second grade.
Students develop strong number sense through interactive math lessons and manipulatives, which take place in small groups, learning centers, or one-on-one time with the teacher.
Young students need plenty of brain breaks to fuel their learning. Trips to the playground allow them to enjoy the outdoors and free play with friends.
Science and social studies lessons help students discover all the amazing things God has created and learn how they can be good community members.
Handwriting in kindergarten and first grade and cursive writing in second grade equip students to express their own ideas. Primary grade students are natural storytellers!
PCA’s Primary core curriculum is complemented by a variety of enrichment classes that encourage students to explore their God-given gifts in areas such as the arts, sports, and technology. Primary schoolers attend the following exploratory classes weekly:
Kaleidoscope — An exciting after-school care program
Busy parents love that their young students can continue learning and playing in a safe, consistent environment after school through our Kaleidoscope and Aftercare programs. For an additional fee, students can stay on campus until 5:30 p.m., enjoying various activities such as outdoor play, games, homework help, and reading.
Safety is our number one priority.
We understand that sending your child to school for the first time can feel overwhelming. As a parent, you deserve peace of mind when you drop your child off on campus. At PCA, you can rest assured that we value your child’s safety and have invested in campus safety through training in emergency preparedness, an on-site security team, and surveillance technology. Whether your little one is learning in the classroom or playing on the playground, they will be in a secure and age-appropriate environment.
Meet One of PCA’s
PRIMARY Teachers
Mrs. Shannon Trueira
Degree: Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Education
Teaching Experience: 6 years at PCA
“My favorite thing about teaching is having the opportunity every day to impact a child’s life and help the students grow and build relationships with others. I love watching my students grow socially, emotionally, and spiritually throughout the year. I enjoy getting to know each student and learning about their unique interests. It’s fun to watch the class bond over the school year and become a class “family”, who help and care for one another.“
We hope to meet you and your child soon!
The transformation your child is about to embark on is truly remarkable. Throughout the kindergarten to second grade years, students become readers, writers, and thinkers. They develop executive functioning skills that help them with self-regulation, organization, and independence.
As you intentionally search for the right learning environment for your child, we hope you’ll join us for a tour of PCA! During your visit, we can share more about our Primary grades in the Lower School, as well as opportunities ahead in the Middle and Upper School.
We look forward to sharing more about how our Primary teachers build on a child’s natural way of learning through experience and play, encouraging students to become engaged learners for life.