Elementary School

First Grade

A Pivotal Year of Growth and Faith

First grade at Campbell Christian Schools is a pivotal year of growth—when young learners strengthen foundational skills, gain independence, and begin seeing the world through both inquisitive and faith‑filled eyes. Our first‑grade program combines strong academics with Christian character development, helping each student grow in both knowledge and compassion.

At this stage, children’s natural curiosity blossoms into deeper understanding. Every lesson—whether in reading, science, or Bible—is designed to spark wonder, encourage confidence, and connect faith with learning. Through small‑group instruction, hands‑on discovery, and a caring school community, our first graders become joyful, capable learners who reflect the love of Christ in all they do.

First grade students at Campbell Christian Schools engaged in hands-on learning and reading activities in the classroom.

Academic Foundations Rooted in Faith

The first‑grade curriculum at Campbell Christian Schools offers a balance of academic rigor, creative exploration, and spiritual growth. Our teachers guide students through structured, engaging lessons that emphasize critical thinking and problem‑solving while nurturing emotional and moral development.

Each day begins with prayer and a Bible lesson, setting a tone of gratitude and purpose. Students learn to see God’s hand in math patterns, environmental design, and the beauty of language. This integration of faith and academics builds not only knowledge but also wisdom—teaching children how to live out Christian values in both the classroom and community.

Academic Excellence Coupled with Holistic Development

While faith guides everything we do, our classrooms reflect rigorous academic standards as well. Our students thrive in core subjects delivered by highly skilled and passionate educators. We also develop essential skills in communication, collaboration, and leadership through mentoring programs, community service, and character education initiatives.

Families often compare our student achievement metrics with public schools and Catholic schools in the area and consistently find that CCS students perform excellently, not only academically but also in character and spiritual development. Our students’ success on United States testing scores and other standardized assessments stands as a testament to the effectiveness of our balanced educational model.

Science: Exploring God’s World with Curiosity

observation, and creative projects that help them uncover how God’s creation works. Lessons emphasize inquiry, exploration, and the joy of hands‑on learning, laying the foundation for future study in STEM.

Key science themes include:

First grade students at Campbell Christian Schools conducting a hands-on science experiment with teacher guidance.
  • The Five Senses: Understanding how God designed our bodies to explore His world
  • Light and Sound: Observing how energy travels and helps us see and hear
  • Animals and Biomimicry: Studying animal traits and discovering how humans learn from God’s creatures
  • Engineering: Designing basic problem‑solving projects and simple machines
  • Planets and Gravity: Exploring space and the power that keeps our world in motion
  • Seasons and Weather: Learning how Earth’s cycles reflect divine order
  • Health and Fitness: Caring for the body through good choices, exercise, and appreciation of God’s design

By connecting scientific observation to faith, students develop a sense of awe, respect, and stewardship toward creation.

Social Studies: Building Connections and Citizenship

First‑grade social studies help students see their role within family, school, and community while understanding how people live, work, and celebrate together. Lessons connect history and geography to real‑life experiences, encouraging empathy, civic responsibility, and cultural respect.

Core social studies topics include:

Living in a Community

Cooperation, teamwork, and our responsibilities as neighbors

The American People

Celebrating diversity and shared values

Holidays

Exploring traditions and national celebrations that unite families and communities

Maps and Globes

Developing spatial awareness and geography skills

Goods and Services

Understanding how people work together to meet needs

Today and Yesterday

Comparing life in the past and present, appreciating progress and faith through history

Through projects, songs, and classroom discussions, students learn to appreciate how God guides people and societies through time. Lessons emphasize kindness, service, and gratitude—helping students see that citizenship means using our gifts to serve others.

Students in the Campbell Christian Schools art class creating colorful projects and expressing creativity.

English Language Arts: Reading, Writing, and Expression with Purpose

Language Arts in first grade equips children to read fluently, write clearly, and communicate with confidence. Using an integrated approach to phonics, comprehension, and writing, our curriculum empowers students to master literacy skills while understanding the power of words from a biblical perspective.

Reading skills developed include:

  • Alphabet mastery, consonants, short vowels, and vowel digraphs
  • High‑frequency (sight) words and fluency through choral reading
  • Story elements like prediction, sequencing, cause‑and‑effect, compare and contrast, and rhyme
  • Exposure to diverse genres: fiction, nonfiction, poetry, drama, fables, folktales, biography, historical fiction, and persuasive text
  • Drawing connections between texts and personal experiences

Writing focus areas include:

  • Complete sentences, capitalization, and punctuation
  • Creative writing through personal narratives, poems, and short plays
  • Informational essays and opinion letters
  • Daily journal reflections
  • Penmanship and handwriting skills

Reading and writing are intertwined with faith as students explore themes like truth, kindness, and perseverance. Literacy instruction encourages not only academic mastery but also thoughtful, compassionate communication.

Mathematics: Building Confidence Through Understanding

Mathematics in first grade at Campbell Christian Schools helps students develop confidence and logical reasoning. Lessons are hands-on, utilizing manipulatives, visuals, and games to turn abstract concepts into real-world understanding. Our math program emphasizes the beauty of order in God’s creation, showing that patterns, numbers, and relationships reflect His intentional design.

First‑grade math highlights include:

  • Counting and sequencing up to 120
  • Understanding place value and the meaning of tens and ones
  • Recognizing shapes and patterns in creation
  • Collecting and organizing data
  • Learning to tell time and understand calendars
  • Identifying and using money in practical scenarios
  • Adding and subtracting with regrouping through real‑life problem solving

Students also participate in the beloved “Day 100” celebration, marking one hundred days of learning through creative counting, measurement, and data projects—a joyful reminder of persistence and progress.

Field Trips: Extending Learning Beyond the Classroom

Our first graders experience hands‑on discovery through carefully chosen field trips that connect classroom learning to real‑world exploration. Favorite destinations include:

Compared to some public schools and Catholic schools, CCS emphasizes a holistic approach that cultivates a child’s heart and mind from preschool to junior high.

Campbell Christian Schools students observing animals and learning about habitats at the Oakland Zoo.

Oakland Zoo

Observing animal behaviors, habitats, and conservation efforts

Campbell Christian Schools students exploring farm animals and gardens at Hidden Villa, learning about sustainable farming and nature.

Hidden Villa

Experiencing farm life and nature education firsthand

Campbell Christian Schools students riding the historic Roaring Camp Railroad, learning about California history and environmental stewardship.

Roaring Camp Railroad

Exploring California’s history, transportation, and environmental stewardship

Each excursion deepens understanding and reinforces wonder—showing how learning, faith, and community come together beyond the classroom walls.

Activities and Projects That Build Togetherness

In addition to academics, our first‑grade program emphasizes kindness, creativity, and connection. Class activities and service projects nurture spiritual development and a sense of belonging. Highlights throughout the year include:

  • Weekly chapel participation and Bible presentations
  • Heritage Project: Celebrating family backgrounds and God’s plan through history
  • Daily journal writing and seasonal poetry/art projects
  • Buddy activities with fourth graders for mentorship and friendship
  • Holiday card outreach to local senior centers
  • Day 100 and seasonal celebrations that mark milestones in learning

Each experience reinforces that knowledge and character develop hand in hand. Students learn that serving others and celebrating together glorify God and strengthen relationships within the school community.

Elementary students participating in summer camp activities at Campbell Christian Schools.

Growing Spiritually, Academically, and Socially

By the end of first grade, Campbell Christian Schools students have achieved more than academic readiness—they have developed confidence, integrity, and compassion. They learn to take responsibility, care for others, and view learning as a lifelong adventure guided by faith.

Teachers focus on individualized learning, ensuring that every student’s strengths are recognized and that challenges are met with encouragement and support. The balance of academic structure and creative freedom helps each child thrive while discovering their God‑given interests and talents.

Why Families Choose Campbell Christian Schools for First Grade

Families throughout Campbell, Saratoga, and San Jose choose Campbell Christian Schools because of our commitment to holistic growth—nurturing each child’s mind, body, and spirit. Our program provides:

  • A Christ‑centered education that blends faith and academics
  • Strong literacy, math, science, and citizenship foundations
  • Experienced teachers who prioritize personal attention and spiritual guidance
  • Safe, welcoming classrooms with small student‑teacher ratios
  • Engaging enrichment through field trips, art, and service

At Campbell Christian Schools, first grade marks the beginning of a lifelong faith journey enriched by knowledge, creativity, and compassion. Every moment—whether discovering a planet, writing a poem, or helping a friend—becomes an opportunity to grow academically and walk more closely with God.

Take the Next Step in Your Child’s Journey

At Campbell Christian Schools, first grade marks the beginning of a lifelong faith journey enriched by knowledge, creativity, and compassion. Every moment—whether discovering a planet, writing a poem, or helping a friend—becomes an opportunity to grow academically and walk more closely with God.

Explore Campbell Christian Schools Today

For parents searching for private Christian schools near me or a Christian school near me that can provide a balanced, faith-based education, Campbell Christian Schools offers a unique experience that prepares your child spiritually and academically.

We encourage you to schedule a tour of our beautiful campus and speak with our dedicated staff to learn more about how CCS can nurture your child’s faith and academic growth.

Schedule a tour today to see firsthand why families rank Campbell Christian Schools among the top private Christian schools in San Jose and Campbell.

Address

1075 W Campbell Ave, Campbell, CA 95008

Phone

(408) 370-4900

Office Hours

Monday – Friday: 7:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Saturday–Sunday: Closed