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A Rich Heritage

As part of our history unit on immigration, fourth graders learn about what brought people to America and the rich heritage of our country. This unit integrates history with reading, writing, research, family traditions, and a biblical worldview. We see...

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The Disappearing Art of Handwriting

Many times as a parent and as an elementary educator, I have been asked the question, “Does penmanship really matter?” As I considered the question and developed an apologetic, I sought answers not only from God’s Word but also from...

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Timeless Curriculum in a Technological World

The Smyrski Family shares with fourth graders about congenital heart defects. The interactive whiteboard displays a diagram of the heart and X-rays from their own son’s surgery. As a classical school, we understand the benefits of utilizing the timeless methods...

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Emotional First Aid at School: Grace and Love in the Classroom

Cary Christian School is celebrating its 20th anniversary. Over the years, we have developed a reputation in our community, and across the country, as a school known for excellence in academics with God’s word at the center. We are also...

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Anatomy of a Great Parent-Teacher Conference

It’s that time of year when parents and teachers have opportunity to communicate and collaborate on their students’ academic progress. Here are five important components that are part of every great parent/teacher conference: Eyes – Have eyes on the information....

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Building a Firm Foundation through Educational Intervention

As a second grade teacher at Cary Christian School, I have the privilege of teaching and guiding students toward their full academic potential. I share with my students that Jesus gave His life to show His love for us. May...

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Why Boys Should Read “Girl” Books and Girls Should Read “Boy” Books

It happened every year in fifth grade, with every novel, without fail. Either the boys would moan, “Why do we have to read another GIRL book?!,” or the girls would groan, “Not another BOY novel!” Admittedly, at the outset, some...

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A Retiring Teacher’s Memoir: Beauty Keeps

On a windy January day long ago, I walked along the Atlantic Ocean’s shore. Impressed by the expanse, I breathed in the cold, salty air. Seashells sat. I always look for what my son once called a “beauty keep,” something...

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Search and Teach

A short stroll through any school hallway or a cursory look into any school classroom will quickly give one ample evidence that God doesn’t use cookie cutters in His creative act. A class of 20 students yields 20 different fingerprints,...

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The (Hand)Writing on the Wall

There’s an old saying that “the pen is mightier than the sword.” Our present environment of texting, Siri, and keyboards may very well soon make this phrase an anachronism. Who uses a pen anymore (or a sword, for that matter)?...