Damascus Christian School
Kindergarten Profile

• Bible – Emphasis in on developing and nurturing a Biblical worldview through Scripture memory, Biblical character study and development, learning about the attributes of God, reading the parables told by Jesus, and learning basic Biblical doctrines. A variety of activities are utilized such as singing (praise songs, action songs and hymns), story telling, drama (acting out Biblical stories), memory work, and a weekly chapel.
  
• Reading – Emphasis is on phonemic awareness, word families, and an introduction to basic sight words. Introduction and reinforcement of each letter sound of the alphabet and blending that letter with the short vowel sounds is the main focus for the first three months of kindergarten. This is accomplished through a variety of activities that are designed to meet the student at his/her development level. Generally, by the latter part of January, reading groups will begin.
  
• Writing – Emphasis initially is on proper pencil grip and paper slant. As each letter of the alphabet is introduced, proper letter formation is introduced and reinforced. A modified transitional printing is taught. A variety of writing activities are offered to the student to help them gain confidence and skill with the printed word.
  
• Math – Emphasis is on hands-on use of a variety of materials (manipulatives) to build a strong concrete foundation for the various areas of mathematics. Examples of areas covered are: patterning, basic measurement, time, money, addition and subtraction (facts to ten).
  
• Science – Emphasis is on exploring God’s creation through a variety of units. These include, but are not limited to the five senses, the seasons, matter, types of animals, insects and weather.
  
• Art – Emphasis is on color and art mediums. Activities are designed to help students explore, create and appreciate art.

Other areas of enrichment –

• Mentoring – Damascus Christian High School has a mentoring program that places high school students who are interested in the field of education in elementary classrooms to learn first-hand about education. Kindergarten benefits from this by having these capable students work directly with the kindergarteners either one-on-one or in a small group setting.
  
• Field Trips – to reinforce various curricular areas.
  
• Volunteers – Parents are given opportunities to volunteer within the classroom or a variety of opportunities outside the classroom. For the protection of our students, all volunteers must agree to a background check prior to involvement with students.