Children enter school with a variety of experiences. We offer options to meet their individual needs. Younger learners who turn 5 between April 1 and September 1 may consider our Young 5 program. All students, including those in Young 5 kindergarten, must be five years old on or before September 1st.
We created Young 5 to support younger learners who may benefit from a transitional year. Children adjust to the social and academic demands of school in a fun, hands-on environment. Young 5 provides ‘the gift of time’ so younger learners can succeed in Kindergarten. Teachers help them develop social, motor and academic skills necessary to prosper in a regular kindergarten class. Students who complete their first year in the Young 5 program will be promoted to the regular kindergarten program the following year.
If your child is ready for a more rigorous program, then Kindergarten may be the right choice. Kindergarten moves at a faster pace than Young 5. Children should enter Kindergarten with the basic personal, social, emotional, motor and academic skills necessary to succeed in school. We know it can be a difficult decision, so we provide options to help you choose what’s best for your child.
Children learn to identify and sound out letters and words. Retelling stories helps children learn to communicate clearly, and build active listening skills. Writing skills progress from letters to simple phonetic spellings.
Children learn basic number concepts like counting, number value, and basic addition using real objects. We study and identify shapes to build geometry skills. Students also learn the days of the week, and how to use money.
Building on their natural desire to explore, children learn how to identify and use their five senses. Using their senses, they observe and gather information, studying themes like plants and animals. As young scientists, they describe similarities and differences found in the natural world.
Learning about communities, students discover the roles and virtues of good citizenship. We practice these skills in the classroom and community.
Children study art, music, physical education and technology.
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. This helps students learn the importance of making good decisions and doing the right thing in life. Moral Focus is so integrated into everything we do:
NHA Parent
The moral focus curriculum is awesome! My kids are learning things that we are trying to teach them at home. It’s being reinforced here at school in fun and creative ways.
Use good judgment to make decisions
Treat others the way you want to be treated
Appreciate the kindness and generosity of others
Manage your emotions and behavior to stay calm
Persist through difficulties until you reach your goal
Despite fear, do what you believe is right
Motivate others to have confidence in themselves
Help and care for others during times of need
Do what is right, honorable, and good
Keystone Academy recently held a surprise assembly honoring Shelia Montri, kindergarten teacher at Keystone, for winning National Heritage Academies’ Excellence in Teaching Award.Continue Reading
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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