ACADEMICS
Where Childhood is Embraced and Growth is Intentional
At St. Nicholas School, your child does more than move from grade to grade. They grow through a carefully guided academic journey that supports spiritual, intellectual, social, and emotional development, meeting them where they are and preparing them for what comes next.
From the first day on campus through graduation, learning at St. Nicholas unfolds over time. Curiosity is encouraged, questions are welcomed, and responsibility is gradually increased as children build confidence, independence, and a sense of purpose. Each stage builds on the last as students grow not only as capable learners, but also as thoughtful, self-aware individuals.
This approach shapes everything we do, from the structure of our classrooms and curriculum to the way we form community among students, families, and staff. Our goal is readiness for middle school and for life beyond St. Nicholas, grounded in strong academics, character, and care for others.
A Developmental Journey, Year by Year
St. Nicholas meets children where they are and helps them grow into independence and what comes next. Swipe through the journey.
PK3–4
Belonging and Discovery
Our youngest learners begin in a warm, welcoming environment where relationships, play, and exploration intertwine to lay the groundwork of a strong foundation, built on:
- Curiosity and discovery through hands-on play
- Early language and literacy woven throughout the day
- Space to wonder, create, and grow
Kindergarten
Capability and Wonder
Kindergarten is play-based learning with plenty of time outdoors. Our campus and trails extend the classroom, giving children room to explore, experiment, and grow in confidence.
- Learning through play, movement, and hands-on exploration
- Mistakes are expected and help build resilience
- Responsibility grows through real routines and care for community
Lower Primary: Grades 1 & 2
Agency
Students begin to see themselves as learners and community members. They build early independence with the support and challenge they need. Teachers serve as guides to help students build focus, learn stamina, and independence. Attention and self-control grow through:
- Collaboration, friendship skills, and citizenship
- Growth in responsibility for daily plans, routines, materials, and expectations
- Discovering their unique learning styles through reading, writing, and core math skills
Middle Primary: Grade 3
Inquiry and Courage
Middle Primary allows opportunities for challenges and increased responsibility. Students practice strategies for success and learn to take healthy risks with steady guidance from teachers. Students grow through:
- More application, independence, and choice in learning
- Natural consequences that build maturity and problem-solving
- Expanded stamina in reading, writing, and thinking. Grasping of scientific concepts
- Increased participation in speaking, with poise in the expression of ideas, discussion, and thinking
Upper Primary: Grades 4 & 5
Ownership and Voice
Students grow into ownership of their own journey. They learn how they learn, advocate for what they need, and step into leadership roles. They move from concrete thoughts to conceptual ideas. They prepare for middle school by building:
- Time management, organization, metacognition, and study habits
- Leadership, service, and responsibility to the community
- Confidence speaking, writing, and thinking critically
- Ability to understand differing viewpoints
- Integrated STEM Skills
A Well-Rounded Academic Program
Across every level, students engage in a shared academic foundation designed to support curiosity, skill-building, and growing independence.
Core Academics
Reading, writing, math, science, and social studies taught with depth and intention.
Core Academics
Reading, writing, math, science, and social studies taught with depth and intention.
- Reading Skills & Strategy
- Language Arts & Writing
- Mathematics
- Science
- Integrated STEM Activities
- Social Studies & Exploration
Related Arts
Classes that expand creativity, language, movement, and tools for learning.
Related Arts
Classes that expand creativity, language, movement, and tools for learning.
- Art
- Art History
- Music
- Choir
- Spanish
- Library
- Gardening
- Technology
- Movement
Beyond the Classroom
A consistent rhythm that builds community, character, and joy.
Beyond the Classroom
A consistent rhythm that builds community, character, and joy.
- Daily Morning Chapel
- Active Play
- Mini-Courses
- Service Opportunities
- Lunch
- Self-Responsibility in Class
Mini-Courses are short, immersive learning experiences offered each year, ranging from creative arts to cultural exploration and hands-on projects. Friendly Fridays occur throughout the school year, a time when students in Levels 2-7 work together in small multi-age groups on service projects.
A Campus Built for How Kids Grow
Throughout their time at St. Nicholas, students experience unique classrooms, with small groups supported by teams of subject-specialist teachers. Each child's learning is differentiated, not one-size-fits-all, allowing teachers to respond to how each child learns rather than forcing every child into the same approach and speed.
Because teachers work collaboratively, students are known from multiple perspectives. This shared responsibility strengthens academic support, encourages flexibility, and helps children grow within a close-knit learning community.
Learning also extends beyond the classroom. Our 24-acre campus, from trails and chapel to the art studio and gymnasium, is an active part of the academic experience.
Who St. Nicholas Students Become
Our Portrait of a Graduate reflects the heart of a St. Nicholas education. Our graduates are formed in heart, mind, and presence: ready to lead, to think, and to live with purpose.
Ready to Lead with Heart
A St. Nicholas Graduate interacts with the world with confidence, courage, and consideration by:
- Acting with empathy and respect
- Leading with humility and kindness
- Viewing the world with joy and wonder
Equipped to Think and Create
A St. Nicholas Graduate utilizes creativity, critical thinking, and curiosity by:
- Expressing themselves thoughtfully and assuredly
- Adapting and applying skills as compassionate, engaged citizens
- Enjoying challenges and exploring creative solutions
Living with Purpose and Presence
A St. Nicholas Graduate recognizes that they are part of a community and engages by:
- Appreciating different ideas, cultures, and faiths while practicing inclusivity
- Serving with humility, integrity, and kindness
- Seeing God in themselves and others