Academics

Lower School

A University Christian education not only prepares students for college, but for all of life.

While our academic roots are in a thoroughly Biblical, college preparatory curriculum, we also strive to inspire students to dig deeper into their unique God-given talents and interests. Our programs include opportunities for Honors and Advanced Placement courses in each discipline, as well as exemplary Bible and elective experiences for a complete, high-quality education designed to prepare students for the calling God has placed on their lives.

A Time of New Beginnings and Growth

Our Lower School is comprised of the Junior Kindergarten program for four-year olds, Elementary Grades (K5 through 4th grade) and Bridge Academy (Grades 5th & 6th). Our fully credentialed, dedicated faculty and staff endeavor to partner with parents in the process of educating the whole child- spiritually, academically, and socially in a balanced educational environment.

Beyond the daily academic day, students are offered the opportunity to build meaningful relationships and explore the world around them through our extended care program. Extended Care is available for all Lower School students in the morning from 6:45-7:45 AM and in the afternoon from 3:00-6:00 PM. Along with our extended care program, extracurricular opportunities include tumbling, sport’s clubs, dance, cheerleading, and robotics programs.

List of 2 items.

  • Elementary (K5 – 4th Grade)

    The Elementary program includes a balanced curriculum featuring small group instruction and learning with an emphasis on a strong phonics foundation, systematic reading focused on comprehension, hands-on math experiences, creative writing, and a discovery approach to science. Students are encouraged to think critically and to use problem-solving skills as they become life-long learners. Enrichment opportunities include art, music, STEM, physical education, library, computer, and academic field trips.

    Along with our weekly chapels and daily Bible lessons, biblical truths and concepts are integrated into each subject. Students are encouraged to serve others through mission and service opportunities such as can food drives and service field trips. Lower School athletics including flag football, cheerleading, basketball, and soccer are available for student participation.
  • Bridge Academy (Grades 5th and 6th)

    Bridge Academy is specifically designed for our fifth and sixth graders as they "bridge" into our Upper School. A team of excellent teachers works closely together to establish an age-appropriate learning environment that challenges each Bridge Academy student. Core subjects including Bible, Language Arts, Math, Science, and History are taught from a biblical perspective. Students are challenged with an increasingly rigorous curriculum. Deeper critical thinking is developed as students are pushed to find "real life” answers and applications.

    Enrichment classes include Band, Chorus, Music, Art, Technology, STEM, Library and Physical Education. Opportunities for students to grow socially are provided through clubs including Jr. Beta, Safety Patrol and UC Buddies. BA Fifth Graders may participate in Lower School Athletics, while our 6th graders are allowed to participate in our interscholastic athletic program.

Contact

List of 2 members.

  • Photo of Jeleen Del Valle

    Jeleen Del Valle 

    Lower School Principal
  • Photo of Stephanie Ponder

    Stephanie Ponder 

    Lower School Administrative Assistant

Faculty

List of 24 members.

  • Photo of Lora Alban

    Lora Alban 

    1st Grade Teacher
  • Photo of Amber Armstrong

    Mrs. Amber Armstrong 

    Lower School Music Teacher
  • Photo of Alex Blair

    Alex Blair 

    5th Grade Teacher
  • Photo of Tammy Blanton

    Mrs. Tammy Blanton 

    Academic Resource Program Specialist, Lower School
  • Photo of Beth Ann Dowling

    Beth Ann Dowling 

    6th Grade Teacher
  • Photo of Amy Frank

    Mrs. Amy Frank 

    4th Grade Teacher
  • Photo of Ryan Fuchs

    Ryan Fuchs 

    Physical Education Teacher
  • Photo of Karen Gaylor

    Karen Gaylor 

    Bridge Academy Teacher
  • Photo of Elizabeth Hutton

    Elizabeth Hutton 

    Physical Education Teacher
  • Photo of Naila King

    Mrs. Naila King 

    Kindergarten Teacher
  • Photo of Susan Larey

    Susan Larey 

    Junior Kindergarten Teacher
  • Photo of Katherine Leuthen

    Mrs. Katherine Leuthen 

    3rd Grade Teacher
  • Alyssa Luczak 

    teacher
  • Photo of Rebecca Mamallapalli

    Rebecca Mamallapalli 

    Lower School Art Teacher
  • Photo of Joe Mayfield

    Mr. Joe Mayfield 

    6th Grade Teacher
  • Photo of Erica  Moyers

    Erica  Moyers 

    5th Grade Teacher
  • Photo of Elisha Pemper

    Elisha Pemper 

    2nd Grade Teacher
  • Photo of Ashlyn  Pilcher

    Ashlyn  Pilcher 

    3rd Grade Teacher
  • Photo of Priscilla Roberts

    Mrs. Priscilla Roberts 

    Kindergarten Teacher
  • Photo of Amber Rolli

    Mrs. Amber Rolli 

    Media Center
  • Photo of David Sexton

    Mr.  David Sexton 

    6th Grade Teacher
  • Photo of Lynnette Stevens

    Mrs. Lynnette Stevens 

    4th Grade Teacher
  • Photo of Heather Taylor

    Heather Taylor 

  • Photo of Alison Watkins

    Mrs. Alison Watkins 

    Kindergarten Teacher