Lower School

Junior Kindergarten through Sixth Grade

At Cathedral Oak Academy, students in Junior Kindergarten–6th grade receive a classical Christian education that forms the whole child—mind, heart, and character—through a meaningful partnership between parents and teachers.

Three Days on Campus. Two Days Learning at Home. One Connected Community.

During the Grammar Stage, students build the knowledge, skills, and habits that become the foundation for a lifetime of learning. Through great stories, memorization, narration, recitation, discussion, hands-on learning, and rich content, students develop a deep store of knowledge while learning to pay attention, ask good questions, communicate clearly, and think well.

But our goal goes beyond what students know. We want to shape what they love. Together, parents and teachers cultivate students who know what is true, love what they ought to love, recognize what is beautiful, and grow in wisdom and virtue—students equipped to know God, love learning, and flourish as lifelong learners and faithful people.

Lower School Curriculum

  • Bible & Theology

    Students explore Scripture as the foundation of their faith while growing in their understanding of Christian truth and love for God and His Word.

  • Literature

    Students encounter great stories, poetry, myths, and classic literature that cultivate imagination, build vocabulary, and develop a lifelong love of reading.

  • History & Geography

    Students explore the people, places, and events that have shaped our world while developing an understanding of history, geography, and their place in God’s unfolding story.

  • Mathematics

    Students build a strong foundation in mathematical concepts and essential math facts while developing fluency, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills.

  • Science

    Students explore the natural world through observation and discovery while building scientific knowledge, curiosity, and wonder at God’s creation.

  • Latin

    Students are introduced to Latin vocabulary and grammar, strengthening their understanding of language and English while laying a foundation for future study.

  • Writing & Grammar

    Students develop strong foundations in grammar, spelling, handwriting, and composition while learning to communicate clearly and confidently.

  • Music & Visual Arts

    Students discover and create beauty through singing, music, drawing, painting, and other artistic mediums while developing creativity, craftsmanship, and an appreciation for the beauty and order of God’s creation.

  • Physical Education

    Students develop strength, coordination, fitness, and healthy habits while learning teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.

A Rich Tradition of Literature

Our literature program introduces students to great stories, beloved classics, poetry, mythology, fables, fairy tales, and historical fiction—the best of the literary tradition. Through rich and memorable works, students build vocabulary, strengthen comprehension, cultivate imagination, and develop a lifelong love of reading.

Students encounter stories that inspire courage, virtue, wonder, and wisdom, including selections from classic collections such as James Baldwin’s Fifty Famous Stories Retold. Through narration and recitation, students learn to listen carefully, articulate their thoughts, remember what they have read, and engage deeply with beautiful language and enduring ideas.

  • Little Bear

  • The Story about Ping

  • Billy and Blaze

  • Keep the Lights Burning, Abbie

  • Brambly Hedge

Biblical Worldview

Faith is woven throughout the school day. Students learn to see God’s truth and goodness in every subject—from literature and history to mathematics and science.

  • Students begin the day together in community through prayer, Scripture, singing, announcements, and shared learning. These gatherings build school-wide unity, reinforce Christian virtues, and cultivate a sense of belonging and purpose.

  • Students memorize Scripture and learn songs and hymns that help them know God’s Word, treasure truth, and carry it with them throughout life. Through repetition and joyful singing, students build a lasting foundation of faith, language, and worship.

  • Students study the Bible as the foundation of Christian faith and life, tracing God’s redemptive story and growing in their understanding of Scripture, doctrine, and Christian character.

  • Students learn to view all areas of study through the truth of Scripture, recognizing God as the source of truth and exploring how faith shapes their understanding of the world, their relationships, and their responsibilities.

  • Students learn to pray with reverence and confidence, developing a daily habit of bringing their needs, gratitude, and praise before God. Through prayer, students grow in their relationship with God and learn to depend on Him in every area of life.

Student Life & Community

Students build friendships and discover their gifts through field trips, community events, chorus, theater, and athletics. Beginning in 2nd grade, students can participate in chorus and theater opportunities, while athletic opportunities include swim beginning in 4th grade and cross country and boys basketball beginning in 6th grade.

Students also enjoy daily recess on our large playground, outdoor lunch, basketball goals, and plenty of space to play, move, explore, and build friendships. These experiences help students develop confidence, teamwork, perseverance, and a strong sense of belonging within the COA community.

7. Student Life & Community

Parents want to visualize their child here.

Include things like:

  • Chapel

  • House/community activities, if applicable

  • Field trips

  • Service opportunities

  • Music

  • Art

  • PE

  • Special events

  • Recess/outdoor time

  • Clubs or extracurriculars

Use photos heavily here.

8. Parent Partnership

This deserves its own section because it's central to your UVP.

Parents Are Part of the Classroom Team

At COA, education is a partnership. Teachers provide professional instruction and guidance on campus, while parents reinforce learning and cultivate habits at home. Together, we work toward the academic, spiritual, and personal growth of each student.

9. What We Hope Students Become

This could be one of the strongest sections on the page.

We want our students to become:

Curious — eager to learn and ask good questions.
Wise — able to discern truth and think carefully.
Virtuous — developing habits of character and self-discipline.
Faithful — growing in their understanding of and love for Christ.
Capable — equipped with strong academic foundations.
Compassionate — prepared to serve others.

10. CTA

End with something very simple:

Come See the COA Difference

We invite you to visit our Lower School, meet our teachers, and experience our collaborative model for yourself.

Schedule a Tour | Apply to COA