Elementary School

Enrichment Programs

Art

Art is taught at Good Shepherd Lutheran School on the basic philosophy that all children are creative and can be successful in creative activities. Elementary evaluations are not based on talent or ability, but rather on an overall attitude of willingness, enthusiasm, and interest in the art projects assigned. The ability to listen, take directives, the amount of effort and thought behind the completion of each project assigned is also taken into consideration.

Art is a wonderful journey into self-discovery and creative expression. (For some students, depending on the secondary school curriculum and the electives chosen, this elementary art program may possibly be their only exposure to this form of creative expression.

Technology

No child can be functional in this age of technology without the basic knowledge of computers and how they function. Good Shepherd Lutheran School views computers as a tool to be used for obtaining knowledge and imparting knowledge through the use of programs that emphasize creativity and self-expression.

There are two components to the Technology class: working in the Computer Lab, with emphasis on using the computer as a tool and homework which is used to help with understanding how computers function and how technology is used and how the student can use technology.

Music and Drama

Good Shepherd Lutheran School has an extensive music program that provides opportunities for developing performance skills. 4th and 5th graders participate in instrumental band, 3rd graders learn to play recorders. All grades have music instruction each week. Students present the Christmas and Easter programs through drama, readings and song. The Spring Play and the Talent Show are always exciting events!

Spanish

The Spanish program offered at Good Shepherd Lutheran School focuses on vocabulary and practicing simple grammar. The children learn pronunciation, noun gender, adjectives, verbs and numbers through games, role-playing, stories and songs in Spanish. The emphasis is on oral communication.

Physical Education

Physical Education is an important experience for a child's personal growth and development. At GSLS "P.E." combines two components. It is "physical" in that we have organized activities, games, aerobic exercises, etc., which nurture a child's physical well being. It is also "education" emphasizing "life skills" such as, sportsmanship, teamwork, fair play, self-discipline, cooperation, and respect. Every class from Kindergarten to 5th Grade meets once a week where we blend the physical with education.

Additionally, each year we participate in the President's Challenge for Physical Fitness. This encourages children through a variety of activities to appreciate the need for good physical fitness for overall health. All children receive an award to recognize their achievement and motivate them to remain physically fit and active. At GSLS we use the fun of games and activities and physical fitness to help children learn life skills, habits, and values.