Our Elementary (Kindergarten through Grade 4) is focused on developing the whole child - academically, spiritually, physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Calhoun Christian School provides academic excellence for all of our students. Elementary students are at the beginning of their journey as lifelong learners, becoming curious about the world around them and taking their first steps towards independence. Elementary students are challenged to build and strengthen their fundamental knowledge of the Bible, mathematics, reading, writing, science, social studies, music, art, Spanish, computer skills, and so much more.
In elementary school we seek to uphold God's truth by integrating a Biblical worldview into instruction. Students are taught stories from the Bible, but they are also given the groundwork of worldview education. Throughout their five years in elementary, they grow in their understanding of their relationship with the Creator, each other, ourselves, and creation. Elementary students are taught the eternal implications of the Christian faith and encouraged to ask questions so they can continue to grow.
Elementary students are also challenged to serve their teachers and classmates by learning how to engage with other students and their teachers in an appropriate and respectful manner, developing self-discipline and love for others. Elementary students participate in cleaning the school each day and are given opportunities to serve each other and our community. Students are specifically taught to celebrate differences and recognize that each person is made in the image of God. Calhoun Christian School elementary students are treated with respect and are taught by teachers who truly care for their betterment in all aspects.
Our strong academic program and an average 15:1 student to staff ratio offer opportunities for differentiated instruction to accommodate student strengths and challenges. We emphasize sensory integration through hands-on learning and whole body focus exercises. Our students develop a heart of service through quarterly community service projects and missions.
Our goal is to build a strong Christian foundation by acknowledging Jesus Christ in all we do. Students gain a sense of belonging through team building, all-school openings and events. Students have opportunities to interact with all grade levels in extra-curriculars. Elementary teachers offer open communication with parents and provide opportunities for parents to be involved and participate in their student's learning. In all areas we strive to build life-long learners and strong followers of Christ.
Elementary Students Daily Schedule
- School begins at 7:45am, doors open at 7:30am
- Lunch is from 10:50 - 11:20am
- Recess is from 11:20 - 11:58am
- Students have gym daily, art once a week, music twice a week, library once a week, computers once a week, Spanish once a week, and chapel once a week.
- School ends at 2:50pm, doors close at 3:00pm
Elementary Teaching Staff
Aly Burnett
Kindergarten Teacher
I initially joined Calhoun Christian School as a reading interventionist and quickly found I loved working with younger children. I quickly signed up for a Bachelor's in Elementary Education and doubled my classes. An opportunity opened up to be a lead kindergarten teacher and I knew with the support of staff and Mrs. Moody, I would be able to do it. While many people say Kindergarten is the hardest job, it is also the most rewarding. I get to start their learning journey and help them develop a love for learning. I tell my students every year that they are always welcome in my classroom to say hi and get a hug, and they do. I love that I can keep those relationships with them and am honored I can be a little part of their journey.
BS in Elementary Education from Grand Canyon University
April Denisiuk
Fourth Grade Teacher
In 2002, I started performing reading interventions in the Kalamazoo public district. I instantly fell in love with the job. Seeing those light bulbs go off was the greatest paycheck you could receive. I knew I was on the right career path but wanted to further it. I went to Western Michigan University where I received a Bachelor of Science with an Early Childhood endorsement. I graduated Magna Cum Laude and am currently holding a teaching certification. I have also had extensive training from Great Lakes Autism Center. When it came time to enter the workforce again, CCS was a natural choice as our daughter is entering her third year here. We are already invested in this school and its core values align with ours. It is such a blessing to work in a school where you can openly praise God. “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
BS from Western Michigan University
Elizabeth Moody
Kindergarten Teacher
God called me to be a teacher. Teaching is my passion and my joy. Every day that I get to spend in the classroom with my students is a gift. It is a privilege to teach in a Christian school where I can openly share about God’s love and teach about the world that God created. I have taught many grade levels and subjects over the years, but kindergarten is by far my favorite. Kindergarteners’ enthusiasm and energy for life are contagious. Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). These words from the Bible are always a great reminder to me, and it is my prayer that my students will also learn to follow them.
BA from Spring Arbor University
MA from Spring Arbor University
Diane Rome
First Grade Teacher
I am very grateful for the opportunity to be a teacher. As a young teen, I memorized Psalm 37:4 " Delight yourself in the laws of the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." This has remained my life verse all these many years. God gave me the desires of my heart when He enabled me to become an elementary teacher over 35 years ago. It is truly a joy to work alongside parents and participate in the education of their child for one year's time.
BS from Pensacola Christian College
Jessica Scramlin
Fourth Grade Teacher
Our children have been attending CCS since 2021. I am passionate about seeing students reach their full potential and develop a love for Jesus Christ. Having taught both domestically and internationally, I am proud to call CCS my home and further the mission of the CCS team.
BS from Indiana Wesleyan University