Elementary School
Elementary school is a time of rapid growth, where students build on foundational skills and progress to higher-level thinking across literacy, math, science, and social studies. In lower elementary, children develop basic skills while becoming more aware of the world around them, fostering empathy and understanding. They begin reading to learn, writing to express ideas, and preparing for more complex math like algebra. In upper elementary, students apply higher-level thinking to all subjects, enhancing their reading comprehension and deepening their understanding of concepts. Socially, they learn values like respect, cooperation, and personal responsibility, all while preparing for future success.
NHA Schools: From Kindergarten to Graduation
Learn How to Apply at Grand RiverStart strong. Stay strong.
Give your child the advantage of a full K-12 experience with Grand River Academy and Westfield Preparatory High School.
Begin at Grand River, a top-performing K-8 school focused on academic growth and character. Then continue at Westfield Prep—a college-prep high school committed to student success.
Both schools are part of National Heritage Academies, offering a consistent, high-quality education from kindergarten through graduation.
Lower Elementary Curriculum
English Language Arts
Learning to read and write is essential for success. Our youngest students use a systematic phonics approach to develop decoding, comprehension, grammar, and writing skills through daily practice. Students make connections to texts and apply a variety of comprehension skills to what they’ve read. Our teachers follow state standards and ELA best practices to support instruction.
Math
During this time, our students will build a strong understanding of addition, subtraction, and place value concepts. Our curriculum uses real-life contexts and visual models to develop number sense, laying the foundation for geometry and future problem-solving skills.
Science
Our students will learn to use their senses to observe and make sense of the world around them. They will explore a variety of topics, while they will also develop key practices such as communication, collaboration, and problem-solving that will serve them throughout their educational lives.
Social Studies
We’re committed to developing students who grow up to become thoughtful and compassionate citizens. Early on, students explore geography, economics, and human systems to build awareness and empathy, connecting their world to the larger community.
Technology
We offer one-to-one technology, with each student receiving their own Chromebook.
Upper Elementary Curriculum
English Language Arts
During this time, student's comprehension switches from learning to read to reading to learn. As fluency improves, they apply comprehension skills, write more complex texts, draw conclusions, and develop grammar skills. Teachers follow state standards and ELA best practices to support instruction.
Math
Students expand their knowledge of addition, subtraction, and place value to include multiplication, division, and fractions. Our curriculum promotes critical thinking and deep math understanding through visual models and real-world problem solving.
Science
Children's interest in science and engineering grow as they explore life, physical, earth, and space sciences. They apply learning to real-world technology and engineering while developing communication and collaboration skills for future success.
Social Studies
Before middle school, children expand their understanding of the world by studying American democracy, government, economics, and history. They explore state and U.S. history, from indigenous communities to the Revolutionary War, and learn about global countries and continents, connecting the past to the present while recognizing similarities and differences in communities worldwide.
Specials & Electives
In addition to our core curriculum, we offer a variety of specials and electives, giving students the opportunity to explore their interests, fostering a well-rounded student.
Electives
- Art
- Language Arts
- Life Skills
- Math
- & more!
Moral Focus Program
Strong hearts and minds impact the world in amazing ways. Virtues such as respect, perseverance, compassion, and courage are essential to what kids need to succeed and an essential part of what we teach. We make them part of every school day through our Moral Focus Program. Our program is integrated into everything we do. This helps students learn the importance of making good decisions and doing the right thing in life.
Learn More About Moral Focus
Preparing Your Child for a Lifetime of Success
See what happens when hard work, personal responsibility, and a nurturing school community combine to create one exceptional experience. Founded on academic excellence, moral focus, parental partnership, and student responsibility, Grand River Academy is a school like no other—one that can lead your child to a lifetime of success.
Apply Today
We can't wait to share in your child's journey! Apply online, in person or over the phone, and don't hesitate to ask questions along the way. We are here for you!
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