How we focus our curriculum
The Bible is the basis for curriculum development and improvement. St. John Lutheran School is fully accredited by the State of Indiana and National Lutheran Schools Accreditation. The curriculum follows the guidelines established and required by these accrediting agencies. Using a variety of resources, including some of the latest technology, our curriculum falls into four general areas:
- CHRISTIAN FAITH AND LIFE focuses on learning about God and His love for us as revealed in His Son, Jesus. Instruction takes place through devotions, worship, Bible stories, reading, discussion, service projects, and memory work.
- CORE CURRICULUM follows recommended guidelines for instruction in Reading, Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, and Science.
- FINE ARTS provides instruction and experiences in art and art history, vocal and instrumental music, and drama.
- PHYSICAL EDUCATION focuses on health and wellness through guided physical activity, study of nutrition and healthy lifestyles, and participation in team sports.
PRE-KINDERGARTEN (3-5 YEAR OLDS)
At the Pre-Kindergarten level, we provide a high quality program for children that lead them to experience God's love, to create a foundation upon which positive social relationships are built and to develop a strong sense of self. Since we are accredited by the State of Indiana, our prekindergarten program includes a number of objectives and learning activities that are based on the Indiana Standards for students in kindergarten.
OBJECTIVES
- Letter Knowledge
- Phonemic Awareness
- Fine Motor Skills
- Number Sense and Basic Math Concepts
STUDENTS IN PRE-KINDERGARTEN ENJOY
- Daily Bible stories, prayer, and music
- Continued instruction in language arts and mathematics
- Opportunities in community-building, arts and crafts, and recreation
- A variety of field trips to places like the apple orchard and the fire department
SERVICE
- Food Pantry Donations
KINDERGARTEN-2ND GRADE
K-2 classrooms are full of activity as we lay the building blocks for the coming years through our studies, activities, and hands-on experiences. In addition to Christian education, which is the focus of our studies, students receive instruction in all core subject areas, as well as opportunities in Music, Art, Physical Education, and Technology. Some of the highlights include:
ACADEMIC
- Sci-Fest (Problem-Solving)
- Music - Choir
- Learning Center for students with learning difficulties
SERVICE
- Assisting World Missions through Chapel Offerings
Field Trips
- Southeastway Park
- Indianapolis Zoo
- Conner Prairie
- Tuttle Orchard
- Expo Bowl
- Benjamin Harrison Home
- Children's Museum
ON-SITE PROGRAMS
- Picnic Day
- Spirit Week and Pep Assemblies
- Thanksgiving Feast
GRADES 3-4
Grades three and four are the heart of elementary education, where many of the basic skills and knowledge that are so important for every American citizen are learned. In addition to the core subjects taught in light of the Indiana Academic Standards, some of the other highlights have included:
ACADEMIC
- Sci-Fest (Problem-Solving)
- Music - Recorders
- Learning Center for children with difficulties
EXTRA-CURRICULAR
- varies from year to year
SERVICE
- Assisting in chapel/church services
- Book donations
- Food pantry purchases/collections
- Congregational member financial assistance (4th)
- Mitten and scarf donations
FIELD TRIPS
- State Capitol
- Farm
- Children's Museum
- Others
ON-SITE PROGRAMS
- Spirit Week and Pep Assembly
GRADES 5-8
Students in grades 5-8 dive into challenging content areas as well as explore their gifts and learn skills that will prepare and help them for higher levels of education. In addition to instruction in the academic core subject areas, students in our middle school also have the following opportunities:
ACADEMIC COMPETITIONS
- Bible Quiz Team
- Lutheran Schools Sci-Fest
- Learning Center for students with learning difficulties
FINE ARTS
- Choir
- Band
- Plays, musicals, performances, and the Art Show.
SPORTS
- Soccer
- Volleyball
- Basketball
- Track and Field Day
- Cheerleading
- Cross Country
SERVICE
- Weekly and monthly chapel offering recipients
- Variety of Christmas ministries
- Service to the local congregation
FIELD TRIPS
- Washington, D.C.
- Outdoor Education at Camp Lakeview