Pre-Kindergarten
His understanding of words and language becomes more complex, and he loves to sing and repeat nursery rhymes. He will readily express affection and is active and playful.
Self-regulation can be a challenge, but with the help of loving, patient teachers, he learns to express his wants and needs in appropriate ways, as he builds meaningful friendships. Every day is an opportunity to experience the splendor of childhood.
PK boys love to work with their hands — whether forming letters or constructing animals from Play-Doh.
Language Arts
- Listen to stories and pretend to read
- Understand that words convey a message
- Recognize capital letters
- Communicate and speak effectively
- Contribute to discussions
- Express ideas through conversation
Math
- Count to 25
- Identify numerals 1–10
- Identify basic shapes and patterns
- Continue and create patterns
- Sort by attributes
- Understand calendar, measurement, time, and graphing
- Demonstrate one-to-one correspondence
Science
- Identify nocturnal animals
- Explore seasonal changes in weather and temperature
- Explore changing states of water
- Examine characteristics of snow and snowflakes
- Study bugs, fossils, and pond life
Social/Emotional Development
- Express emotions appropriately
- Communicate needs and wants using words
- Share and take turns
- Make eye contact when interacting
- Initiate and maintain play — independent, parallel, and group
- Resolve conflict appropriately and show respect
- Take responsibility for actions and belongings
- Respond as a first-time listener
- Demonstrate self-control
- Participate and cooperate
Character Development
- Show concern for others and respond in a kind manner
- Complete tasks without boasting or bragging
- Show leadership through acts of service
- Show gratitude and seek forgiveness for mistakes
- Fulfill responsibilities
- Show respect for others
- Display excellent manners
Curriculum Overview by Grade
Early Childhood
Elementary
Curriculum Overview: Special Areas
1
We intentionally educate and nurture the heart, soul, mind, and body of each boy.
Guiding Principles
2
We know, nurture, and love each boy as a unique child of God.
Guiding Principles
3
We teach the Bible and model the Christian faith to our boys.
Guiding Principles
4
We aren't just teachers; we are life-long learners and students.
Guiding Principles
5
We push students to engage as thinkers.
Guiding Principles
6
In an increasingly connected world, our curriculum has a global perspective.
Guiding Principles
7
Flexible teaching strategies seek to maximize learning for each boy.
Guiding Principles
8
Our assessments aren't just a way to measure learning — we want our boys to demonstrate understanding.
Guiding Principles
9
We seek to enroll boys from diverse backgrounds.
Guiding Principles
10
We seek balance and excellence in all we do.
Guiding Principles
11
We aren't just boy-friendly; we're boy-specific.
Guiding Principles
12
Our program sets a foundation of learning that will help boys thrive beyond PDS.
Guiding Principles
13
We take time to make sure our faculty and staff are growing spiritually.
Guiding Principles
14
We hold high standards for ourselves, pushing ourselves to reflect, renew, and grow.