Joy in Learning

Joy in learning begins in the Lower School, from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 5. We believe a child’s curiosity is innate and God-given, and we work to cultivate that wonder in the primary years. Our students are provided opportunities to explore and make discoveries across academic disciplines that will enhance their understanding of the world around them. Spiritual formation is nurtured through classroom devotions, weekly chapel services, and the practice of serving others in love and humility.

Each morning begins with classroom gatherings, a time for children to build community and pray for their day. Students are taught appropriate social skills, sharing, and listening skills because we believe when children feel comfortable socially, they are more likely to engage academically.

Through the implementation of the Singapore Math program, students discover the beauty of order in mathematics. Building on a conceptual understanding of abstract algorithms, they develop skills to access higher-level math concepts. Through the use of The Science of Reading, we continuously develop a quality Language Arts program with the aim of developing students who are self-motivated, discerning readers, and clear, thoughtful writers. Through project-based learning, students act as apprentices, guided by grade-level teachers who shepherd their interests in purposeful ways. From conducting in-depth research to finding pleasure in a good book to drawing maps from memory to competing in a chess tournament, Lower School students love to learn.

Meet the Head of Lower School

Dannon Stock joined The Covenant School after serving for seven years as a principal at an elementary school in Ohio. Mrs. Stock earned her degree in Special Education from Kent State University and her Master’s in Teaching from Southern Utah University. She also holds a Superintendent license from Youngstown State and is currently working towards her doctorate in Educational Leadership. Her teaching experience includes all grade levels up to eighth grade. She has also served as a cross country and track coach at both middle and upper school levels.

As Head of Lower School, Dannon is committed to supporting and nurturing the academic and personal growth of young learners, ensuring a vibrant and engaging educational environment for both students and families.

Pre-K, Transitional Kindergarten, and Kindergarten

At The Covenant School, the foundation of a Christian liberal arts and sciences education begins in Pre-Kindergarten, with placement in Transitional Kindergarten or Kindergarten based on developmental readiness. These early years are designed as a thoughtful progression, with each stage building upon the last so that skills, habits, and understanding deepen over time. In this formative season, we nurture the whole child—heart, mind, body, and soul—in a joyful, Christ-centered environment.

Our youngest learners are immersed in rich language, meaningful stories, imaginative play, early mathematics, and hands-on scientific discovery. As students grow, they develop the ability to listen attentively, narrate clearly, ask thoughtful questions, and express their ideas through drawing and writing. What begins as guided exploration gradually develops into greater independence, confidence, and readiness for later school years. Time outdoors and sensory-rich exploration invite children to delight in God’s creation. With each year, students strengthen habits of curiosity, attention, and gratitude, essential foundations of a Christian liberal arts education.

Pre-Kindergarten, Transitional Kindergarten, and Kindergarten students also participate fully in the life of the school, enjoying Art, Music, Foreign Language, Physical Education, Chapel, field trips, and daily recess. From the very beginning and through each stage of growth, students experience a vibrant community where faith and learning grow together.
 

Grade 5

As students get older, they are given more responsibility with the support of teachers who understand the importance of this transitional year. Learners focus on building academic habits—organization, independence, resilience—as they take ownership of their learning and prepare for the middle school years ahead. Teachers work with students to fine-tune the skills of clear writing and persuasive articulation of thoughts and ideas.

List of 2 items.

  • Academic Focus Time

    Academic Focus Time (AFT) is a dedicated study hall for fourth and fifth-graders intended to support and serve their organizational needs and academic habits. Students are given time to read independently and complete homework with support of the teacher.
  • Electives

    Fifth-grade students have the opportunity to participate in electives. Each student chooses a year-long performing art elective from a choice of chorus or handbells. In addition to the performing arts elective, students choose one elective for each trimester.  The options include coding, games, exploratory art, photography, chess, and service squad.

The Covenant School

Birdwood Campus | Lower School | Pre-K–Grade 5 |
1000 Birdwood Road Charlottesville, VA 22903 | 434.220.7309

Hickory Campus | Middle and Upper School | Grades 6–12 | 175 Hickory Street Charlottesville, VA 22902 | 434.220.7329
Located in Charlottesville, VA, The Covenant School is a non-denominational, private, Christian day school for Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. Students benefit from a challenging academic program, visual and performing arts, competitive athletics, and a wide selection of extracurricular activities.