Lower School

Fostering a student’s desire and ability to take personal ownership of their learning inside and outside of the classroom equips students for independent lifelong learning.

At the Lipscomb Academy Lower School, our faculty and staff are skilled at facilitating the learning process for our students by igniting personal curiosity, wonder, and inquiry as an integral part of learning. Intentional focus is placed on facilitating the learning process for students, recognizing effort not final grades, mastering standards, and learning from mistakes. Through effort, challenge, and perseverance, students learn to take personal responsibility for and pride in their learning outcomes.

Lipscomb Academy realizes that not all students learn at the same pace or in the same way. Differentiation begins in the classroom. Our teachers are intently focused on small-group, student-led groups, one-on-one, and independent learning rather than whole-group. This allows all students to learn at a more individualized pace. When necessary for success, additional support is offered through our Academic Learning Services program to provide reading, writing, and math intervention as well as enrichment. Our Equip program is also available when children need tutoring services after school.

I count it a tremendous blessing to know my students & be a part of their lives well beyond when they leave my class. Thank you Lipscomb Academy families for placing your trust and confidence in me as an educator and friend to your child along their lifelong walk.
Lower School Faculty Member

Letter from Head of Lower School

I am honored to serve as the Head of Lipscomb Academy Lower School. We are dedicated to nurturing the hearts and minds of young learners through a Christ-centered education. At the lower school, we combine rigorous academics with a deep commitment to spiritual growth, character development, and biblical truth.

Our passionate educators create a safe, supportive, and engaging environment where students are encouraged to strive for academic excellence while growing in their faith. Every subject is taught from a Christian worldview, helping children develop critical thinking skills rooted in truth, compassion, and integrity.

Lipscomb Academy is a place where children thrive—spiritually, academically, and personally, and we are honored to walk alongside families in shaping the next generation of leaders, learners, and followers of Christ.

DR. Katy FlattHead of Lower School

Lower School Resources

1st Grade Curriculum

First-grade students build the foundational skills needed to become confident readers and writers. Students develop phonemic awareness, phonics, decoding, and reading fluency while expanding their vocabulary and comprehension through a variety of literary and informational texts. They learn to ask and answer questions, identify key details, describe characters and settings, determine the main topic or central message, and make connections between texts and their own experiences.

In writing, students compose opinion, informative, and narrative pieces using complete sentences, appropriate capitalization and punctuation, and grade-level spelling patterns. They learn to organize their ideas, revise their writing with support, and share their work with others. Through daily reading, writing, speaking, and listening experiences, students strengthen their communication skills and develop a lifelong love of literacy.

Using the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), students are introduced to the world around them through engaging, hands-on learning experiences. They investigate plants and animals, explore patterns of day and night, and discover how light, sound, and different forms of communication help us understand and interact with our environment. Through observation, inquiry, and exploration, students develop curiosity and build a strong foundation in scientific thinking.

2nd Grade Curriculum

Second-grade students strengthen their reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills through meaningful literacy experiences. Students develop reading fluency and apply phonics and word analysis skills to read increasingly complex texts with accuracy and expression. They build comprehension by asking and answering questions, identifying central messages and main ideas, making connections, comparing texts, and using text evidence to support their thinking.

In writing, students compose opinion, informative, and narrative pieces while learning to plan, revise, edit, and publish their work. They focus on writing complete paragraphs with clear ideas, supporting details, and appropriate organization. Students also expand their vocabulary, strengthen grammar and language conventions, and participate in collaborative discussions that build communication and critical thinking skills.

Using the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), students deepen their understanding of the natural world through hands-on exploration and inquiry. They investigate how plants and animals grow, survive, and interact within their environments while exploring Earth's features and the natural processes that shape its surface. Students also examine different types of materials by investigating their properties and uses, and they develop an understanding of the states of matter through observation, experimentation, and scientific inquiry. Throughout the year, students build critical thinking skills as they ask questions, make observations, and discover how science helps explain the world around them.

Second-grade social studies in Tennessee focuses on “Life in the United States.” Students explore the foundations of American citizenship through the study of geography, government, economics, and history. They develop an understanding of communities and how citizens contribute to society by learning about rights, responsibilities, and civic values. Students practice using maps and geographic tools, identify important patriotic symbols and traditions, explore basic economic concepts, and examine key events and individuals who have shaped the United States. Through inquiry, discussion, and hands-on learning experiences, students build an appreciation for their role as members of their local and national communities. As a culminating experience, students participate in a grade-level Wax Museum, where they research and portray influential Americans, sharing the significance of their contributions and the impact they have made on the United States.

3rd Grade Curriculum

Third-grade students strengthen their reading skills by engaging with increasingly complex literary and informational texts. Students develop fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension skills while learning to identify main ideas, determine themes, summarize texts, analyze characters and events, and make connections across different types of texts. They use text evidence to support their thinking and deepen their understanding of an author’s purpose, point of view, and the meaning of words and phrases within context. Students continue to build foundational reading skills by applying knowledge of phonics, word analysis, and academic vocabulary to decode and understand grade-level texts. Through discussions, close reading, and written responses, students develop critical thinking skills and become more independent readers who can analyze, interpret, and communicate their understanding of a variety of texts.

Using the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), third-grade students explore the natural world through hands-on investigation and inquiry. Students study the life cycles of plants and animals, investigate patterns of heredity, and examine how organisms adapt and survive within their environments. They explore weather patterns and climate while developing an understanding of how Earth's systems change over time. Students also investigate forces, motion, and magnets through experiments that encourage observation, problem-solving, and scientific reasoning. As a culminating experience, third-grade students participate in an Invention Convention, where they design, create, and present an invention of their choice while demonstrating how it works and explaining the problem it solves.

Third-grade social studies focuses on “Our Communities and Tennessee.” Students explore the history, geography, government, and economics of Tennessee while developing a deeper understanding of their role as citizens within their communities. Students investigate Tennessee’s regions, natural resources, and important historical events while learning how geography has influenced the growth and development of the state.
Students examine the foundations of government, the responsibilities of citizens, and the ways communities are organized and supported. They explore Tennessee’s economy by studying resources, goods and services, and the role of producers and consumers. Through the study of significant individuals, events, and contributions that have shaped Tennessee, students develop an appreciation for their state’s history and cultural heritage while building skills in analyzing sources, interpreting maps, and engaging in historical inquiry.

4th Grade Curriculum

Fourth-grade students continue to develop strong literacy skills through the exploration of increasingly complex literary and informational texts. Students strengthen reading comprehension by determining themes, identifying main ideas and supporting details, summarizing texts, analyzing characters and events, and comparing ideas across multiple texts. They use text evidence to support their thinking and develop a deeper understanding of an author’s purpose, point of view, text structure, and vocabulary within context.
In writing, students create well-organized opinion, informative, and narrative pieces that include clear ideas, relevant details, and appropriate text evidence when supporting their claims. They learn to plan, draft, revise, edit, and publish their writing while applying grade-level grammar, spelling, and language conventions. Through research, discussion, and written responses, students develop their ability to communicate ideas effectively, think critically, and engage with a variety of texts and topics.

Using the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), fourth-grade students continue to investigate the natural world through hands-on exploration and scientific inquiry. Students study plants and animals, focusing on adaptations that help organisms survive and thrive within their environments. They explore Earth’s systems and the processes that shape the planet, including earthquakes, volcanoes, weathering, and erosion. Students also investigate energy and how it is transferred, as well as explore the properties and interactions of electricity, light, and heat. Through observation, experimentation, and problem-solving, students develop a deeper understanding of scientific concepts and how they connect to the world around them.

Fourth-grade social studies in Tennessee focuses on early United States and Tennessee history, from Native American civilizations through 1850. Students explore the cultures and contributions of Indigenous peoples, the events leading to the founding of the United States, and the development of the nation through the study of the American Revolution, the U.S. Constitution, and westward expansion. Students investigate how geography, government, and economics influenced the growth of the United States and Tennessee. They examine the contributions of important historical figures, explore Tennessee’s role in the nation’s development, and analyze how key events shaped American history. Through the use of primary sources, maps, and historical inquiry, students develop an appreciation for the people, places, and ideas that helped form the United States.

5th Grade Curriculum

Fifth-grade students engage with complex literary and informational texts while continuing to develop advanced reading comprehension, analysis, and communication skills. Students analyze themes, main ideas, and supporting details while examining how authors use structure, language, and evidence to convey meaning. They compare and contrast texts, determine an author’s purpose and perspective, interpret figurative language, and use relevant text evidence to support their ideas and conclusions. In writing, students create well-developed opinion, informative, and narrative pieces that are organized with clear ideas, strong evidence, and thoughtful elaboration. Students conduct research, gather information from multiple sources, and communicate their findings through written responses and presentations. They continue to refine their writing process by planning, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing while applying grade-level grammar, vocabulary, and language conventions. Through reading, writing, speaking, and listening, students develop the skills needed to become independent thinkers and effective communicators.

Using the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), fifth-grade students deepen their understanding of the natural world through investigation, experimentation, and scientific inquiry. Students explore Earth’s systems, including patterns in the solar system, the interactions between Earth’s spheres, and how landforms and environments change over time. They investigate matter by examining its properties, changes, and conservation, and they explore how energy is transferred and transformed through various systems.
Students also study ecosystems, exploring how plants and animals interact with one another and how changes in an environment can impact living organisms. Through hands-on investigations and engineering practices, students ask questions, develop models, analyze data, and design solutions to real-world problems. By engaging in scientific exploration, fifth-grade students strengthen their critical thinking skills and develop a deeper understanding of how science explains the world around them.

Fifth-grade social studies in Tennessee focuses on United States history from the Civil War through the modern era. Students explore the causes, events, and impacts of the Civil War, including the challenges of Reconstruction and the nation’s efforts to rebuild and reunite. They examine major historical events, individuals, and movements that shaped the United States, including westward expansion, industrialization, immigration, the Great Depression, World War I and World War II, the Civil Rights Movement, and significant developments in modern American history. Students analyze how geography, economics, government, and civic values have influenced the growth and development of the United States. Through the study of primary sources, historical documents, maps, and multiple perspectives, students develop skills in critical thinking, historical inquiry, and evidence-based discussion. By the end of fifth grade, students gain a deeper appreciation for the people, events, and ideas that have shaped the nation and understand their role as informed and responsible citizens.

5th Grade Quest

Spiritual Life

Life at Lipscomb Academy is a daily, personal process of growing more aware of God’s presence and becoming more like Christ, through the Spirit. Members of the Lipscomb community strive to live in the right relationship with God, ourselves and others, in every dimension of life.

Spiritual Life is woven into everything we do, including academics. Science experiments become an opportunity to recognize the power and activity of God on earth. Historical events become a chance to discuss relevant issues and topics in society today. Journaling on literature becomes your child’s doorway to see how their life is a part of God’s bigger story. Faith is integrated into Lipscomb’s curriculum through foundational standards that start with the spiritual formation of our faculty and staff so that they can guide students in how to engage the world with a kingdom vision, how to encounter God’s presence, and how to see all people as created in God’s image.

Lower School SESL (Social-Emotional-Spiritual Learning)

Morning Meeting sets the tone for joyful and respectful learning and creates community within the classroom where students discover the nature of God, how they fit within his story, and live in relationship with others. Social-Emotional-Spiritual learning also includes our Heart & Mind programming, chapel, and daily morning meetings in each classroom, every day.

Before and After School Opportunities

Early Care

Supervision of children from 7:00 a.m. - 7:25 a.m. is available at an additional cost to families. Children are supervised in the gym for this period of time before student drop off officially begins at 7:25 a.m. More information about the Early Care program can be found in this separate Early Care document.

Extended Day

The Lower School Extended Day program is designed to provide after-school care for working parents and for those who may need occasional care. The program offers a wide variety of academic and fun-filled activities, such as arts and crafts, games, homework assistance/study hall, outdoor activities, movies, and special events. More information about the Extended Day program can be found in this separate document.
Extended Day.

Explorations and Clubs

Explorations is an enrichment program offered for additional fees for PreK-5th grade students.
For more information, reach out to Meaghan Creamer, After School Experiences Coordinator, meaghan.creamer@lipscomb.edu.

Music Academy & School of Dance

The Music Academy and School of Dance are supplemental, fee-based instructional opportunities provided in the after-school hours on both the Lower and Upper School campuses. The Music Academy offers individual instruction in a variety of musical instruments such as piano, violin, and guitar and is taught by adjunct instructors who are specialists in their field. Students supply their own instruments, though pianos are provided for the actual piano lessons. Tuition is set each semester for a package of 12 lessons. The Lipscomb Academy School of Dance emphasizes a positive environment for students to learn and grow as dancers. Classes are held at both the Lower School and Upper/Middle School locations after school throughout the week. Tuition is set each semester for a package of 12 classes. A Showcase will take place at the end of each spring semester. For complete and current information, as well as registration forms, visit the Fine Arts web page or contact robert.king@lipscomb.edu for Music Academy or elizabeth.patterson@lipscomb.edu for Dance.

Enrichment Opportunities

Special Areas and Related Arts

Physical Education

The Lower School has a lifetime fitness-based curriculum. An emphasis is placed every week on cardiovascular and strength exercises to improve psychomotor and cognitive skills while incorporating healthy nutrition habits throughout. Students in grades 1-4 will have a daily P.E. class and grade 5 students will have physical education class two to three days a week along with recess on non-P.E. days. Students will experience a series of fitness tests and sports-related activities and games, preparing them for individual and team-related sports while teaching them teamwork and sportsmanship.

Recess

Recess is a fun, physical, and social break from classroom activities. To ensure the safety of all students it is important for students to follow these guidelines:

Play safe
Include others
Stay inside designated areas
Students are expected to observe the written and verbal rules of playground equipment.

Music

Students engage in a variety of activities, including the development of the singing voice and introduction to solfege. The Orff approach to music education is used to develop rhythmic abilities through the use of body percussion and instruments. Students also learn note values and how to write rhythms. Students listen to classical music and learn about the lives of composers. Movement is used through singing games, simple folk dances, following a leader, and creative expression. Children perform in a musical program at least once a year. Beginning in 5th grade, students have the opportunity to learn a string instrument in String Orchestra class, play percussion, and sing in 5th-grade Chorus.

Visual Arts

Students learn design principles by inventing complex patterns and combinations of line, form, and color. Examples of artists’ work from the past and present are used to provide stimuli for discussions about artists from different cultures and times who expressed many of the same themes in a variety of ways.

iWonder (Design Thinking)

Students intentionally collaborate to solve real-world problems and become designers of their own learning with the help of technology (coding, circuits, VR, etc.) and recycled materials (cardboard, paper, plastic). iWonder is driven by a maker mindset and fully values the learning process. It emphasizes student empowerment to wonder, think critically, invent, create, and solve problems in an innovative and collaborative environment. Students will be provided opportunities to follow their passions, interests, and curiosities.

Media

Media encompasses digital and print. Student learning has three main focuses: library and research skills, digital citizenship, and literature appreciation. This is done through teaching students age appropriate research skills, teaching them how to be good “digital citizens”, working with 3rd-5th graders on using and managing Google resources, and promoting and encouraging reading and a love of books among all students while also providing weekly checkout opportunities for students in 1st -5th grade.

Theater

Theater provides students with the tools to become confident, creative children of God in today’s uncertain world. Theater will include improvisation, self-expression, storytelling, music and song, movement and dance, speaking and memory skills, puppets and plays, social and emotional encouragement, characterization, cooperation and collaboration, and technical elements of creative design. Activities are designed to stimulate students' imagination, teach empathy, heighten language and listening skills, and encourage critical thinking and problem solving. Movement activities and dance will develop coordination and rhythm. The study of story structure will aid in the understanding of literature from history to fantasy, and students will learn what it feels like to walk in someone else’s shoes through character portrayal. Because Theater is a performing art, each student will participate in at least one performance throughout the school year to share with an audience.

Spanish

Students are introduced to the Spanish language and Hispanic cultures through age-appropriate songs, stories, games, and activities. Students build foundational vocabulary and develop listening and speaking skills in a fun, engaging environment.

BOOST Time

At Lipscomb Academy, we believe God has uniquely created every child with individual gifts, talents, and tremendous potential. BOOST, Building On Our Students' Talents, is a dedicated time each day designed to intentionally nurture those gifts while supporting every student's continued growth.

Using classroom observations, assessment data, and teacher expertise, students participate in personalized small groups that provide targeted instruction in Language Arts, Mathematics, and social-emotional development. Whether students need additional support to strengthen foundational skills or opportunities to deepen and extend their learning, BOOST meets each child where they are and encourages them to take their next steps forward.

Through intentional planning, collaboration, and individualized instruction, BOOST reflects our commitment to developing the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. It is one of the many ways we live out our mission of ensuring every child is known, loved, challenged, and encouraged as they discover and develop the unique gifts God has given them.

Summer Resources

Athletic Opportunities

Field Trips

FAQs

School Day Times

7:25-7:55 Arrival
3:05 Dismissal
11:00 Half Day Dismissal
Early Care 7:00-7:25
Extended Care 3:20-5:30 PM

All School Supplies are provided for students. However, students will need to provide a water bottle, backpack, and lunch box (if parents are planning on sending them with their lunch).

The Lower School Extended Day Program is designed to provide after-school care for working parents and for those who may need occasional care. Extended Day is available Monday through Friday from 2:30 to 5:30 for Pre-K through 4th grade. We offer flexible payment arrangements, including daily fees and monthly contract.

The program offers a wide variety of academic and fun-filled activities, such as arts and crafts, games, homework assistance/ study hall, outdoor activities, movies, and special events. A daily snack is provided only for children in Pre-K through Pre-First. All other students are encouraged to bring a healthy snack.

The extended day program is not available when the school is officially closed, (e.g. holidays, teacher in-service, and inclement weather). For more information about the program, you may contact Cynthia Harvey at 615-966-6313 or Cynthia.harvey@lipscomb.edu.
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Technology

Lipscomb Academy is dedicated to fostering a well-rounded educational experience by balancing technology, real books, and hands-on learning. We believe in the importance of integrating modern technology with traditional resources to enhance learning. Additionally, we emphasize the value of student-to-student interaction, encouraging collaborative projects and social engagement to build essential interpersonal skills. This holistic approach ensures our students develop both academically and socially, preparing them for future success. Digital citizenship taught in our Library Media Specialist class.

In grades 2nd- 5th, our students enjoy a 1:1 Chromebook ratio and interactive smartboards in every classroom. Throughout the week, they have access to our iWonder Lab, equipped with robots and 3D printing machines, providing hands-on, innovative learning opportunities.

FAmily portal login SchoologY Login Academy technology for students and parents