Lower School Program
A great education, while enjoying a wonderful childhood.
That’s what makes Shreiner students remarkable.
*****
At the Lower School grade levels, Shreiner Academy offers a challenging curriculum that encourages students to have fun while they are learning. The curriculum is designed to accelerate academic achievement, which includes using materials that are more than one year ahead of the required curriculum.
In addition to an excellent, rigorous curriculum, we provide an inviting learning environment. Large, spacious classrooms are complete with individual bathrooms. Teachers offer plenty of encouragement as they give instruction. On-site teaching assistants are available for one-on-one help for students. Through each subsequent year, we help students become more independent, and more responsible.
Small class size is one of the hallmarks of a Shreiner education. Our maximum class size is 18, but our average is around 15—which is outstanding when compared to the average class size of 23 in many public and private schools in the Atlanta area. Students don’t get lost in the shuffle. And teachers know each student’s individual set of strengths and weaknesses.
Shreiner Academy’s teachers are amazing. Their big hearts, top-notch credentials and experience, combined with the small student-to-teacher ratio, means that each child receives more individual attention. On average, Shreiner teachers have been with the school for five years, and many have been here in excess of ten years.
We take the safety of the children seriously. For all grades the school is equipped with keyless door locks and ID checks are made of all people that are not recognized. Additionally, background checks are made on all members of our faculty and staff.
State accreditation Shreiner Academy has met the standards established by the Georgia Accrediting Commission (University of Georgia), and the school has been awarded the highest level of accreditation.
The academic program for the 5K - 5th grade levels include:• Spanish
• Language Arts
• Math
• Study Skills
• Science
• PE
• Social Studies
• Art
For 5K through 5th grade students, Shreiner Academy believes that homework should be a review of the concepts that have been taught during the day. Homework for 5K is offered as an option for the week. In 1st grade, we give homework 2 times a week. Starting in 2nd grade, students have homework assignments every day. Each grade has a 30-minute study hall in which to complete the tasks. No homework should ever take more than 45 minutes max.
Progress reports are issued three times each year for students in lower school. In addition, our school uses an assessment tool that allows teachers and parents to see how each child is progressing as the year passes.
5K through 5th grade students visit the art lab every week. They learn everything from basic concepts like primary colors, to learning about different artists and types of art. Their class time allows for each individual to grow and excel in his or her artistic talents and interests.
5K students enjoy a separate Spanish class 3 times per week. Starting in 1st grade, students have a Spanish class every day. Students are taught concepts and language skills necessary for basic conversation. Students learn to speak fluently, conjugate verbs, and learn about the culture of Spanish-speaking countries. Many times Shreiner graduates are exempted from 9th grade Spanish in high school.
A state of the art thin client computer lab provides the perfect opportunity for 5K through 5th grade students to learn how to use computers effectively. The home economics lab offers students a chance to experience some hands-on learning. Whether it’s measuring for math concepts or experiencing different cultural cuisines, the students learn the art of cooking . . . and eating!
Winter and spring shows in the school’s performing arts center, starring 5-year-olds through 5th graders, offer the students a chance to be up on stage. This is a great experience and helps build self-esteem and self-confidence. Every student has the opportunity to be engaged in some aspect of creating an amazing performance.
Sometimes it’s too hot to start our regular PE curriculum at the beginning of the school year. With 2 pools on campus, we can extend the summer well after school starts by adding swimming. The pool depth is between 3 and 10 feet. To ensure swimmer safety, the school employs Red Cross certified lifeguards.
Lower school students celebrate special events throughout the year. Each month the school distributes a calendar to preview the special activities planned for the upcoming month. Events include children’s holidays, the Variety Show, International Festival, Cinco de Mayo and the Olympics.
Lower school students greatly enjoy a variety of field trips throughout the year and average one trip per month. Past destinations have included ice skating, The Alliance Theatre, The Renaissance Festival, Lazer tag and much more.
Delicious, healthy meals are prepared in the school’s two kitchens. Our cafeteria is second to none. We offer a la carte options and a hot lunch menu—many items are homemade! Students can enjoy a healthy lunch no matter what their dietary preference is.
Shreiner Academy respects all students. Lower school is a critical time during a student’s formative years. We work to encourage independence and responsibility. And we strike the right balance between work and play. The students are encouraged to become confident, self-assured young adults. Shreiner teaches them life skills and accelerates their academic achievement through rigorous studies, all within a nurturing environment. Our goal is to equip them for the challenges and demands they will face in high school, and beyond.
Programs offered are subject to change.
