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Lower School

PreK–5th Grade

Established in Truth. Growing with Purpose.

these are Foundational Years

From the earliest years of discovery, students are building far more than academic skills. They are forming habits, developing character, learning how to think, and beginning to understand who they are.

These are the years when a biblical worldview takes root and begins shaping every part of life.

At the Pinnacle Academy, Students are:

Grounded

in the truth of God’s Word

Guided

by mentors who invest deeply

Challenged

to grow academically and spiritually

A Different Kind of Classroom

At The Pinnacle Academy, we do not compartmentalize academics and character. Instead, we see character formation as the ultimate outcome of the education process.

Our classroom is not a laboratory for overwhelming young minds with information. It is a sanctuary in which each child can flourish and thrive by learning to love learning.

Our teachers are committed to traditional teaching methods that inform the mind, nurture the heart, and develop the character. With small class sizes, each student receives the individual attention that he or she needs for assimilating information, forming accurate impressions, and embracing the virtue and goodness that pleases God.

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Pre-Kindergarten

A Thoughtful Beginning

Not every child is ready on the same timeline, and that’s okay. Our Young Cubs Pre-Kindergarten program for 4- and 5-year-old students provides a bridge—giving students the time, structure, and encouragement they need before entering kindergarten.

Through a blend of guided instruction and interactive learning, students develop:

Early literacy and phonics
Foundational math understanding
Social confidence and independence
A growing awareness of God’s truth

The goal is not to rush development.

It is to prepare each child to step forward with confidence.

Kindergarten–5th Grade

Excellence with Intention

As students grow, so does the depth of their learning. Our Lower School provides a rigorous academic experience aligned with a biblical worldview, helping students think clearly, communicate effectively, and engage the world with discernment.

Core areas include:

Bible (daily, integrated across all subjects)
English Language Arts
Mathematics
Science
Social Studies
Specials: Spanish, PE, Latin, Art, Music, STEM

Students are not only taught what to think.

They are taught how to think.

Learning That Engages the Whole Child

We believe curiosity is a gift, and it should be cultivated. Each week, students participate in:

LATIN

MUSIC

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

SPANISH

STEM

Visual Arts

These are not extras. They are essential environments where students explore creativity, problem-solving, and discovery.

Movement, Play, and Formation

Children are not meant to sit still all day. At The Pinnacle Academy, we believe in regular physical education, daily recess and play, and opportunities for junior athletics.

Because formation happens both inside and outside the classroom.

Leadership

Maxann Wanamaker

Lower School Principal

With over 20 years of experience in education, a Master Teacher designation, and a deep commitment to Christ-centered learning, Maxann Wanamaker leads with both wisdom and care. Her background in teaching, educational consulting, and ministry shapes a Lower School culture that is both academically strong and spiritually grounded.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is a biblical worldview actually taught?

At The Pinnacle Academy, a biblical worldview is not confined to a single class. It shapes every subject, every lesson, and every conversation.

Students participate in daily Bible instruction using the Purposeful Design curriculum, where they memorize Scripture, study Christ-like character, and learn how to apply truth to their everyday lives. Chapel each week reinforces these truths in a shared, formative setting.

Beyond Bible class, truth is integrated across the entire academic experience:

In English Language Arts, students engage literature and writing through themes of truth, character, and meaning using the Wonders curriculum.
In Math, students develop clarity and problem-solving through real-world applications, recognizing order and design in creation.
In Science, through BJU Press and Elevate Science, students explore God’s creation with curiosity, building both knowledge and wonder.
In Social Studies, students don’t just memorize history. They analyze it through Heritage Studies and Abeka, learning to discern lessons, values, and human nature through a biblical lens.

How do you help quieter or less confident students find their voice?

Not every child walks in confidently. Many are still discovering who they are. Because of our close-knit environment, students are consistently:

Invited into discussion
Encouraged to share their ideas
Supported in taking small, meaningful steps forward

Confidence is not forced. We strive to build it over time through trust, encouragement, and opportunity.

How do you approach discipline and character development?

Discipline at The Pinnacle Academy is rooted in discipleship. Rather than simply correcting behavior, we seek to set the expectation and help students understand:

Why their actions matter
How their choices affect others
What it looks like to respond in a Christ-like way

The goal is not behavior management; we want heart formation. We partner with parents to make sure this happens both at home and at school.

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You are not just choosing a school. You are choosing a foundation. Come see the difference for yourself.