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Spark a Love for Reading: Engaging Texts and Activities to Ignite Young Minds

Students at Trinity Christian School, Kailua, HI read from a variety of books and topics to help them learn about their own world views in order to respect others’ world views. Keep reading this blog to learn the many benefits of the importance of literature and great works.

Reading is often seen as a chore, something that must be done for school but isn't particularly enjoyable. However, our students learn to see reading as a way to understand and extract rich and thought-provoking ideas from texts. Through close reading and thoughtful discussion, they develop the skills of critical thinking and analysis. This allows them to not only do well in school, but also to engage with the world around them in a deeper way. As parents and teachers, we can help foster this love of reading by modeling it ourselves and encouraging students to find texts that speak to them on a personal level. By instilling a love of reading in our students, we are setting them up for success both academically and personally.

What is the importance of literature in our lives today?
Literature has great importance in today's world, not only as part of the requirements in primary and secondary education, but also as part of a broader classical core curriculum. Reading literature can provide us with diverse perspectives that can improve our social studies knowledge, as well as help us to understand more complex topics related to classical Christian education. Furthermore, reading everything from novels to poetry helps promote cognitive skills like critical thinking, memory retention, and language development. Above all else though, literature remains an important source for nurturing imagination and empathy - two essential human qualities for successful living.

How can literature help us understand the world around us and the people in it?
Through literature, we can gain an understanding of cultures, history, and common values that have shaped our world. Traditional classical works provide insight into our habits, actions, and more, which are shared among civilizations throughout time. Additionally, literature can highlight common economic and political pressures common to many societies throughout generations. Furthermore, works of literary fiction often contain layers of social studies embedded in their characters and plots providing a source of analysis and comparison from which readers can develop a nuanced idea of how individuals interact in certain contexts. Literature thus serves as an excellent tool for understanding the manifold aspects that form human experience on both personal and societal levels.

What are some of the ways that literature can enrich our lives and make us more thoughtful individuals?
Literature can be a powerful tool to enrich our lives and develop us as thoughtful individuals. By reading a variety of literature such as classic works from authors like Shakespeare and Homer, we are able to gain an understanding of history, economics, and human psychology that is not possible without books. Additionally, the study of classical core and classical Christian education provides us with these same insights but also offers us an opportunity to view life through the filter of Christ, allowing us to better embrace the wisdom found in all types of literature. Ultimately, this opens up the doors for personal growth beyond facts and figures alone - it encourages contemplation, critical thinking, and possible application in our day-to-day lives.

How can reading and studying literature improve our writing skills and increase our understanding of grammar and syntax?
Reading and studying literature can be a great way of improving our writing and increasing our understanding of grammar and syntax. Through well-selected books, we can gain an insight into how words interact with one another; how they take on various forms or convey various moods. Literature allows us to become familiar with the common language necessary for all writing - regardless of whether it’s creative or not. In addition, reading and studying literature, we can gather knowledge about the history, politics, economics and culture lying behind those written works. It further enriches our understanding of language as each author has their own unique style. Similarly, classical core books are also essential in learning more about the English language– from grammar rules to syntax structures. Ultimately, by taking a closer look at the impeccably composed works of both common and classical authors we can enhance our own writing style and appreciation for the English language.

What are some of the benefits that we can enjoy by immersing ourselves in great works of literature throughout our lives?
Classically influenced Christian education known as classical Conversations views great works of literature as a cornerstone of classical education. Great works are full of themes and words that help us to examine our lives, gain insight and understanding, learn about cultures other than our own, discover the past, cultivate wisdom, and become engaged in quality reading experiences. By immersing ourselves in great works of literature throughout our lives we can gain deeper insights into life philosophy and values found in classical literature. We also can develop an appreciation for masterfully crafted prose style and build an individual literary legacy that can inspire and encourage others through our own testimony to the power of classical language arts.

In conclusion, literature can be an invaluable part of our lives. It has the potential to bring us closer to the world and its people around us, and help us deepen our understanding of ourselves. Beyond that, it can even improve our reading comprehension and writing abilities. There are countless benefits associated with spending quality time engaging with great works of literature throughout our lifetimes. From experiencing different cultures through their literary works, to honing complex analytical skills, literature can make a big impact on who we become as individuals in today’s society. So if you have any questions about the importance of literature in life or how to incorporate it into yours, reach out to us here at http://trin-hi.client.renweb.com/oa/inquiry.cfm?memberid=399 and we would be happy to help guide you.
 

What it Means to Be an ACCS School

What Is the Association of Classical Christian Schools?

The ACCS includes 500 member schools across the United States. It is the primary public advocate for classical Christian education around the world and offers an extensive range of member services to help build distinctive and empowering educational settings.

Through a stringent accreditation process, the ACCS provides accountability and seeks to set an educational standard for a unified and directed approach to classical Christian learning. The ACCS accreditation is among the most challenging of any accreditation in K-12 education, classical or conventional. Member schools conform to rigorous classical Christian academic practices and philosophy. No other accreditor provides this assurance to parents.

The ACCS organizes and provides a comprehensive set of member resources to assist and aid fledgling schools and improve established classical Christian schools. In total, the ACCS represents over 50,000 parents who want the very finest, God-centered education possible for their children. Trinity Christian School is a proud member of ACCS.

ACCS was organized to promote, establish, and equip member schools that are committed to a classical approach in the glorious light of a Christian worldview. Classical Christian education differs from traditional Christian education in that it does not model after the contemporary public school blueprint. Subjects are not segregated into one-hour blocks but allowed to feed into each other and inform each when appropriate, affording an organic and fluid discourse that can surprise both students and faculty alike.

Vital to a classical Christian education is the “Trivium” and “Quadrivium.” The Trivium focuses on three subjects—grammar, logic, and rhetoric, while the Quadrivium focuses on four subjects: arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy. These subjects are taught keeping in mind the natural development of a child at the forefront of the curriculum. Curiosity, inquisition, and critical thinking are key.

The classical Christian method dates back as early as ancient Greece and Rome, incorporating Christianity into the classical approach over 1,000 years ago. Biblical studies and a Biblical curriculum are introduced and seamlessly integrated into the regular school curriculum. While traditional subjects help the students maintain their vocational intelligence and afford a firm educational foundation, CCE helps build the student’s moral code and character while teaching them important lessons about faith using a Biblical framework that highlights the intersection of Jesus Christ and the Liberal Arts.

The History of the Association of Classical Christian Schools

In 1980, parents in three different states were inspired to start a new kind of school. At the time, none knew the others even existed. This amazing confluence launched the present-day classical Christian movement.

Trinity School at Greenlawn in South Bend, Indiana, Cair Paravel School in Topeka, Kansas, and Logos School in Moscow, Idaho all formed within a year of each other. All were dedicated to the restoration of what became known as classical Christian education.

In 1991, Douglas Wilson, founder of Logos School in Moscow, Idaho, published the book, Recovering the Lost Tools of Learning, a look at the failings of public education, the need for a return to the academic freedom and rigors of classical education, and the need for religion to answer the basic truths of life. The title of Wilson’s book was a nod to a 1947 speech at Oxford and later adapted into an essay, The Lost Tools of Learning, by Dorothy L. Sayers.  

Within a few short years, more than a hundred schools were formed. By 1994, the Association of Classical Christian Schools was started to help meet the overwhelming demand for training and information on classical Christian education.  

By the 2000s, the organization had hundreds of classical Christian schools, serving tens of thousands of students. This unprecedented restoration changed the landscape of Christian education in the U.S. The movement’s focus on the educational “trivium” spilled organically into homeschooling and other forms of education.

This classical Christian renaissance spurred the rediscovery of Dorothy Sayer’s 1947 essay in which she decried the loss of the classical tradition, and asked the question: “Is not the great defect of our education today… we fail lamentably on the whole in teaching them how to think.”

The Role of the ACCS Today

Today, the ACCS is leading the growth of classical Christian education (CCE) through a multitude of targeted initiatives.

The organization adheres to the belief that classical Christian education can serve the church as it restores a Christian grounding and worldview in children and communities. Membership in the ACCS makes running a school much easier. All members can take part in growing communities and networks. They can access member tools and benefits, and become part of multi-faceted advocacy and promotional initiatives to build and grow the classical Christian movement around the nation and the world.

Along with providing accreditation, the ACCS advocates for its members, leads them, connects them, helps promote them, and facilitates the sharing of information, equipment, and resources. The ACCS manages a repository of forms, documents, recordings, and references to help member schools grow efficiently, using the best practices from around the classical Christian movement.  

Members can access this information through the Member Resource Center (MRC). The ACCS helps its member schools promote themselves and make good decisions by providing members with data to set salaries, choose curriculum, and demonstrate the success of CCE. The ACCS sponsors multiple contests and awards.

Its popular member Forums on the MRC is a means for members to talk at any time with others in the ACCS, and the member directory facilitates finding, helping, and encouraging one another to greatness all in the glory and service of God.

Additionally, the Association vigilantly protects the independence of its member schools and actively promotes their value.  The ACCS works with states and Washington, D.C.—as well as in concert with partners like Alliance Defending Freedom—to advocate for ACCS member independence.

Trinity Christian School in Kailua, Hawaii, is proud to be an active, engaged, and energetic part of the Association of Classical Christian Schools.

Is a Classical Christian Education Worth It? How Do Classical Christian Education Students Rank?

As a parent or caregiver, you naturally want what is best for your child. Not only do you obviously wish for health and happiness, but you also hope your children learn a lot, appreciate knowledge and education, and have a bright future.  

In practical terms, parents want their children to get a quality education and to do well on their ACT or SAT exams so they can be admitted to the best colleges and universities. They want their children to be on the right path as well as find personal and professional success. This starts with their education.

Some parents who are considering a classical Christian education for their children have concerns or questions about whether attending such a school is worth it. They want to know how typical students score on admission tests and to learn more about those students' chances of being accepted to the colleges or universities of their choice.  

There are many misconceptions about how classical Christian students fare with college and university admissions, and it is important to dispel these myths so you can make an informed choice. If you wonder whether a classical Christian education is worth it and have questions about how students who attend these schools rank compared to other students, here is what you need to know.

SAT Performance and ACT Scores

Many colleges and universities require students to submit either SAT or ACT scores during the admission process. Both standardized exams are nationally recognized and are designed to test a student’s college readiness. The results of these tests may also be used to determine the student’s placement, whether they can receive merit-based scholarships, and for other academic reasons.

The good news is that students who receive a classical Christian education at Association of Classical Christian Schools (ACCS) member schools score higher on average than students who attend all other types of schools. This includes public schools, other religious schools, and even independent college preparatory schools.  

Since classical Christian education students score so well on these tests, they tend to have a better chance of admission to the colleges of their choice and have more opportunities to be placed in courses that challenge and interest them. In addition to achieving good scores, the knowledge they learn in school also helps them prepare for future success. However, a classical Christian education means more than simply getting good grades. It is about acquiring knowledge, thinking critically, and finding overall life success.    

How Classical Christian Education Students Perform in College 

Not only does a classical Christian education help students get into the colleges or universities of their choice, but it also gives them the skills and knowledge they need to perform well once they begin studying for their degrees. A classical Christian education focuses on providing students with knowledge, teaching them critical thinking, and instilling a love of learning. This proves to be a successful strategy for college success.  

Statistics show that 88% of students from classical Christian schools receive a B.A. or higher in college, that 73% of them felt well prepared for a job (compared to 50% of Christian school alumni), that 86% felt well prepared for college by their high school, and that 55% earned all or mostly A’s in college (compared with 32% of Christian school alumni).

However, a classical Christian education isn’t just designed to help students get good grades (though this is certainly a result of the quality education students receive). Students also learn to be leaders in life, to have a deep desire to learn and acquire knowledge, and to care about themselves and the world at large. The vast majority of alumni from ACCS schools read the Bible regularly (70%), and 88% attend church at least three times per month. In addition, ACCS alumni are 2.6 times more likely to pray alone compared with their peers, three times more likely to donate to their churches, and 6.7 times more likely to read regularly.

These numbers show how successful a classical Christian education is at preparing students to be leaders in the world. Scoring well on tests is obviously important, but there is more to being a successful student and successful person. Classical Christian schools understand this and focus on developing intelligent, confident, and prosperous leaders.

We want to not only teach students about math, history, geometry, language, and other subjects, but we also help to foster the growth of their souls, help them develop spiritually, and become life-long learners who not only understand the value of education, but who also crave knowledge and want to make the world a better place.

Not only do students score well on ACT and SAT exams and not only do they get good grades at university or college, but they also live fulfilling lives and contribute positively to society.

The Classical Christian Education Difference 

One question that many parents, grandparents, relatives, guardians, and prospective students often have is what makes a classical Christian education different? The results are certainly evident, with students scoring well on SAT and ACT exams as well as receiving high grades in college, but what truly makes the education different from other schools?

Many factors set classical Christian schools apart from other schools. Classical Christian schooling spends less time focusing on memorization and does not put strict boundaries between subjects as do many other schools. Instead, educators work to help students think, organize, and draw conclusions about the world based on what they know and learn. Rather than just learning facts and figures (which are also taught), students learn how to think. They not only use the information they’re taught to expand their knowledge and solve problems, but the overall importance of learning is also stressed. This means students are more drawn to their studies, and they are encouraged to find new information on their own, determine the validity of that information, and come to their own conclusions based on the knowledge acquired.

This not only helps them learn new things, but it also helps them find success in today’s world. Today, people are often overwhelmed by information, and it always isn’t quite clear what is and is not factual. When students learn how to find the truth themselves, they have the skills they need to determine right from wrong, form rational conclusions based on actual facts, and find greater success in the modern world.  

Another aspect of a classical Christian education that helps students succeed is that students are taught to learn subjects along a historical timeline. Knowledge doesn’t occur in a void, so by connecting subjects to the time periods in which they were developed, students are better able to understand them and apply them to the world today. This practical knowledge helps students become critical thinkers and to question and examine their places in the world and where they fit in God’s creation.    

Another major difference making a classical Christian education valuable is that students are not presented with subjects within strict isolation. Rather than separating each subject into an individual unit (e.g., language for one hour, algebra for another, etc.), the curriculum is integrated. This means that students are always applying what they learn in other areas to their current work. They learn how to see how certain skills—such as critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills—are vital to just about all learning.  

This integration of subjects is vital. While mathematics, history, physics, literature, and other subjects are obviously still taught, they are not strictly divided. All subjects are interconnected within God’s creation, and students are encouraged to see the connections between subjects. This gives them a well-rounded education and avoids issues where subjects are pitted against one another. A student need not consider himself or herself to be a “math person” or an “art person.” Instead, they are free to seek overall knowledge and search for truth in everything they do. This gives them varied interests and helps them find greater overall success.  

Students are encouraged to seek a holistic education and to grow spiritually, physically, emotionally, and intellectually as they move throughout their school career.  

All these differences, along with many more, make a classical Christian education worth it. This is true when it comes to scoring on standardized tests like the ACT and SAT, and it helps in all aspects of life as well. Scoring well on tests is important, but learning how to think critically, valuing knowledge and education, and having a strong desire to learn and seek the truth are qualities that provide lifetime benefits and give students a much greater chance of professional and personal success.  

The Foundation of Classical Christian Education 

A classical Christian education prepares students for lifelong success, and this starts very early on. From the very beginning of formal schooling, education is structured based on the child’s natural stages of development. Between kindergarten and sixth grade, children naturally love learning new things, memorizing facts and information, and reciting information. This is known as the grammar stage. Classes at this age are structured around these natural inclinations to not only provide maximum benefits but to also attract children to the importance of education. If what you are learning meets your own natural curiosities, you will be more interested and focused on school.

As students get older, they learn to form their own arguments and start to make points based on logic and reason. They don’t just want to know facts and figures; they want to know why things are the way they are. At this phase in a student’s education, they are taught to construct sound arguments, engage in intellectual debates, and think critically.  

Classical Christian schooling continues to mirror students’ natural development as they grow. Educators help students form stronger arguments, speak eloquently, base their thinking on logic and reason, and much more. By the time students are ready for college or university, they are not only fully prepared for success on standardized tests, but they also have a strong foundation that will help them succeed in life, becoming leaders who will seek to find the truth and make the world a better place.  

Choosing a Classical Christian School 

With all the benefits of a classical Christian education, it’s only natural that parents, caregivers, and students are drawn to these schools. Once you have decided that a classical education is a good decision for your child, the next step is choosing the right school.

One of the best ways to select a school is to learn more about it. Learn who the instructors are, how they teach, and what they value. If possible, visit the school and see the students and teachers in action. Learn about their core convictions and what matters most to them. This will give you a good idea about what it is like to attend the school and how the students will learn and grow while they are there.  

At Trinity Christian School, we are always seeking to find our place in God's creation and looking for truth, goodness, and beauty in the world. This is evident in how we teach. We want students not only to score well on tests and get good grades, but also to have a strong desire to learn, grow, and challenge themselves. This equips them with the information and skills they need to find success in any context or culture.  

When students learn in this manner and have a natural desire to find the truth, they are more engaged, more focused, and have a greater sense of accomplishment when they achieve their goals.

If you want to see your students score well on the ACT and SAT as well as be focused and disciplined learners who aim for success in everything they do, then a classical Christian education is the right choice. The educators and staff at Trinity Christian School are happy to answer any questions you may have, provide you with the information you need to make an informed choice, and support you in any way we can. We know that parents are the first and most important educators in a child’s life, so we are here for you to help your children find lifelong success. Please contact us today to learn more.

It's Never Too Early To Walk With Christ

Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old, they will not turn from it. – Proverbs 22:6

Many parents wonder, what is the best time to introduce their child to a life of faith and service to the Lord?

The answer is quite simple: it is never too early to introduce a child to the majesty of our Lord and Savior. In fact, this is one of the most important responsibilities a parent has! Scripture spells it out: introduce faith to children early, and they will carry it with them for the rest of their lives.  

“But as for you, continue in what you have learned and have become convinced of, because you know those from whom you learned it, and how from infancy you have known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make you wise for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus.” – 2 Timothy 3:14-15

The next question a parent often has is, “When should I introduce my new child to God?” The answer, again, is easy… as early as possible!

Many parents, on the day of birth, begin by celebrating their newborn’s arrival with a prayer for a life rich in commitment to God, for good health, prosperity, and a life steeped in love and happiness. It is perfectly fine to introduce a newborn to God. Even if a parent came to the Lord later in life, it is also perfectly fine to introduce a child later, too.

But the point is clear, the earlier we work with our children to establish the rituals of our faith, the deeper the roots of their faith will grow. The spiritual setting parents establish at home and at school, and the rituals and disciplines of prayer, grace, and humility, all play a paramount role in a child’s development.

Author and psychologist Asa Don Brown explains that, “Children, especially in the early years, are like little sponges, absorbing all the information around them and then actively making sense of it.”

Science reinforces this statement. Neuroscience tells us conclusively that a child’s brain, in the first five years of life, is developing faster than any other part of the body. Children soak up everything. They are, in fact, like sponges. Many studies confirm that children begin absorbing values and beliefs as soon as they begin to understand language.

So bring God into your home and into the life of your child!

Ways to Introduce Christ to Children

“At the center of the Universe is a loving heart that continues to beat and that wants the best for every person. Anything that we can do to help foster the intellect and spirit and emotional growth of our fellow human beings, that is our job. Those of us who have this particular vision must continue against all odds. Life is for service.” — Fred Rogers

What are the best ways to introduce our children to life in service of God? Here are a few suggestions to start your child off on the road that leads to Jesus Christ:

● Regular Prayer: Regular prayer at home sets the stage for life. Teach them that prayer shouldn’t just happen every night before sleep but anytime throughout the day. Jesus wants us to reach to Him at any time. This teaches children the importance of daily prayer builds their relationship with the Lord, showing them firsthand that He is always there by our side.
● Share Blessings: Find time to share daily blessings with your family. The dinner table is often the best place, as everyone is gathered together. What are you grateful for? What went well today? Praise the Lord for the blessings He has bestowed upon you. Illustrate to your children a life of gratitude to our Heavenly Father. Thank Him for the food He has provided.
● Monitor Media:  Keep close watch on the media in the lives of our children. Look to surround children with a positive and wholesome media landscape.
● Celebrate Art: Surround yourself with positive, beautiful art in all its incarnations that recognize God’s glory—books, music, movies, and art. Verbally acknowledge its beauty and messages.  
● Make Your Home Where the Heart is: Foster a warm, safe, friendly environment at home where family, friends, and guests of all ages can safely gather to enjoy life and glorify God.
● Acknowledge God’s Word: Teach your children that God has a plan for us and always keeps His promises.
● Read from a Children’s Bible: There are many wonderful Bibles suitable for families with young children. Introduce your child early and often to Scripture.

A Life in Christ
“Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” — Matthew 19:14

Remember, you can’t just teach your child about Jesus Christ. You have to help them develop a relationship with Him. As we have discussed, this comes through regular prayer, practicing gratitude, celebrating family and home life, creating a safe, nurturing environment for our children, and introducing them to Biblical stories. It is also important, as our children reach school age, to choose thoughtfully when it comes to the right academic setting for your family.
Parents of infants, toddlers, preschool age, kindergarteners, and even older kids, too… It's always a good time to introduce God to children. It is never too early! It is never too late!
Check back frequently as we will continue to explore the topic of parenting and faith with fresh, new content. 
 

Is a Classical Christian Education Worth It? How Do Classical Christian Education Students Rank?

Parents have many choices when it comes time to send their child off to school. There are public schools, private non-religious schools, Catholic schools,  Evangelical Christian schools, Homeschools, and Classical Christian Schools, among other options. The question many new parents researching these many choices ask when visiting Trinity Christian School in Kailua is this: Is a classical Christian education worth it in terms of the cost, commitment, and rigor? And, importantly, how do students at a CCE school rank up against students in the other, aforementioned, settings? We have the answers right here! Read on.

Classical Christian Education Defined

Before we look at the commitment and cost of a classical Christian education—as well as how CCE graduates rank nationally in various categories—let’s define, very briefly, the classical Christian education model.

Classical Christian education is rooted in the ideas of ancient Greek and Roman thinkers, and is based on the belief that education should focus on the development of critical thinking skills and a deep understanding of the world around us. The curriculum is divided into three stages, known as the Trivium, which are the Grammar stage, the Logic stage, and the Rhetoric stage. These three areas are taught with the natural development of the child in mind. When a child is very young, memorization through observation and listening is how you learn. You may not be connecting the dots, but you are absorbing information at light speed. As the old saying goes, “a child is like a sponge.” Early CCE classes teach this natural, developmental concept. Come middle school, a child yearns to know it all, they want to argue and debate their case, and  want to understand everything. And when a child is in high school, they want to be well-respected, valued, listened to, and they want to state what they believe emphatically and understand why they believe it. These are the natural developmental stages of a child’s learning, and CCE teaches it every day.

Alongside the “classical” education model, is the infusion and integration of Biblical values and beliefs into the curriculum. In addition to the study of academic subjects, students are also taught Biblical theology and are encouraged to explore their faith through prayer, Bible study, and service to others.

The integration of Christ-centered values and beliefs is evident in every aspect of a CCE school's curriculum. Students are taught the importance of faith, love, and service, and are encouraged to explore the Bible and to develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. They are also taught to value the dignity and worth of every human being, and to live lives that reflect the love and compassion of Christ.

The Cost of a CCE Education

According to U.S. News & World Report, the average annual tuition among America’s 22,440 private K-12 schools is $12,350. But that figure does not tell the entire story. Behind this average is a wide range of factors. How much private school costs depends on not only education level, but where the school is located, whether it is secular or religious, how much financial aid is available, and many other variables. And the cost of a CCE education doesn’t just come down to dollars and cents. Families must commit themselves to God through a statement of faith; commit themselves to the school community; and understand full-well that a classical Christian education is steeped in academic rigor, deep critical thinking; with a high premium placed upon the development of self-esteem, presentation skills, manners, and confidence. For these reasons and so much more, since 1980, CCE has witnessed the fastest, most consistent growth of any private school movement in the U.S.—and for good reason. A classical Chrsitian education works. CCE schools are members of the Association of Classical Christian Schools with 500 members strong and growing. And the goal is clear, the member schools are committed to doing academics well because the Heavenly Father gave us our intellect and we must be stewards of that. A classical Christian Education is focused not just on what college a student will get into when they are 18, but what kind of human being they will be at 80. And this is where we look at how CCE students stand up against students in other educational settings.

How Do Classical Christian Education Students Rank?

An exhaustive 2020 study at the University of Notre Dame, incorporating data from the larger Cardus Education Survey, studied thousands of alumni aged 24-39. 
They had been educated in six categories of schools: public, secular private, Catholic, evangelical Christian, religious homeschool, and ACCS (classical Christian). The study looked at 7 life outcomes for students: College and Career Preparation; Outlook on Life; Christian Commitment; Christian Life; Traditional and Conservative Values; Independent Thinkers; Influential.

The results? ACCS alumni ranked highest (and by a wide margin) in all 7 of the Life Outcome categories. ACCS alumni were better prepared for college and career, had a more positive outlook on life, exhibited stronger Christian commitment, were more likely to be practicing Christians, hold to traditional family values at a higher rate, and were more likely to be independent thinkers, and are more influential in their communities and careers than alumni from all other school types.

And even though CCE deliberately steers clear of the “teach to the test” mantra endemic to so many public and private school curriculums, the stunning fact is that ACCS students continually score higher on SAT and ACT college entrance exams. It’s not even close. ACCS students SAT scores are, on average, year in and year out, 325 points higher than public schools, 191 points higher than conventional religious schools, and 138 points higher than secular private high schools. And what is fascinating is that ACCS schools do not formally prepare for the SAT as part of the curriculum. What thai says is that ACCS students excel on the SAT without even prepping for it. Why? Because the classical Christian model works. The curriculum expands students’ minds and teaches them how to think, not simply what to think.  

In Summary

We have looked at the financial and life commitment involved in enrolling in a classical Christian school. You learned what sets a classical christian education apart from other academic models. And you saw firsthand how CCE students are better prepared in a multitude of categories.

For more information on classical Christian education, please visit the Association of Christian Schools web site. 
 

The Top Private Christian Schools in Hawaii

Flora, fauna, food, and fun. And beaches. Endless beaches. Dreamlike stretches of pristine white sand and the thunderous crashing waves of the mighty Pacific. This is Hawaii, of course. And along with its beautiful and proud indigenous history, Hawaii is a surprising and magical tropical location for many other reasons. One surprise is its offering of exceptional private schooling for children grades K-12. That’s right. There’s much more to the islands than floral leis, stunning lava flows, and delectable pu pu platters.

Here we look at Hawaii’s top private school offerings, for families newly moved to the islands or for longtime resident families looking to switch from public to private school education. Truly, where we send our children for schooling is one of the most important decisions we will ever make.

Hawaii has an excellent public school system, to be certain. The state ranks competitively, at #17 out of 50, according to U.S. News & World Report, in K-12 public education. But for parents looking for exceptional private school offerings, we present some of the best in this blog post for serious scholastic consideration.

Schooling is a very personal and private matter for all parents. Moms and dads all have different priorities for their kids when it comes to education. But make no mistake, all parents want their children to have a comprehensive education that prepares their children well for life. Private schools, while obviously accompanied by a price tag, afford parents a terrific opportunity to be a part of a concerned, passionate, vocal community in the intellectual, emotional, and physical development of their blessed offspring. Hawaii’s K-12 private schools are wide-ranging and excellent; let’s look at some of the best.

Mid-Pacific Institute:  https://www.midpac.edu/
Set on 43 gorgeous acres in the Mānoa Valley, the Mid-Pacific Institute’s origins date back to 1908, when the Kawaiaha'o Seminary for Hawaiian girls, Mills Institute for Chinese Boys, the Okumura Japanese Boarding School, and the Korean Methodist School for Boys and Girls all came together to join forces. From the onset, the school’s mission focused on a global perspective and the belief that people of diverse backgrounds and cultures could come together to learn as a powerful collective for understanding. The Mid-Pacific Institute is a traditional Christian school, which means it follows the public school curricular model, but through a Christian worldview. Mid-Pacific prepares every student to make a difference in the world by embracing change through creativity, collaboration, critical thinking, and global awareness—all guided by moral and ethical values.

St. Andrew’s Schools: https://www.standrewsschools.org/
In 1867, beloved Hawaiian leader Queen Emma Kaleleonālani, a visionary and transformational thinker, established St. Andrew’s Priory, the oldest girls’ school in Hawaii. Today, 155 years later, St. Andrew’s Schools has grown to include The Prep, a K-6 boys’ school, and Queen Emma Preschool for boys and girls ages 2-5.
With a strong emphasis on individualized instruction, St. Andrew’s guides students to unearth their unique strengths, passions, and interests through discovery, practice, creation, and deep self-reflection. St. Andrew’s places a heavy emphasis on social, emotional, spiritual, and cognitive learning to help children cultivate healthy habits of mind, body, and spirit.
Girls (The Priory, K-12) and boys (The Prep, K-6) are educated separately in the classroom, yet socialize together on campus, guided by a blending of Hawaiian and Episcopal heritages. St. Andrew’s is a safe, nurturing space that looks to bring out the best in each student. The courage and tenacity of founder Queen Emma Kaleleonālani continue to inspire every day. 

Asia Pacific International: http://www.apishawaii.org/
Situated on a beautiful, verdant, 97-acre campus, the Asia Pacific International School is a new addition to Hawaii’s rich, educational landscape. Founded in 2015, this traditional Christian school on Oahu’s North Shore serves students grades K-12 “to become leaders of the New Pacific Century.” The school’s mission is clear: the Asia Pacific School encourages its students to engage authentically in global learning experiences. 
Project-based learning and an emphasis on Christian values pair with critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and citizenship to develop strong graduates who are prepared to embrace college and the exciting future challenges ahead.

Iolani School: https://www.iolani.org
Iolani is yet another venerable school in the Hawaiian islands. Founded in 1863, Iolani School is a culturally diverse, college prep setting founded upon Christian values. Academic excellence and personal growth flourish in an atmosphere that values collaboration, humility, and respect for all community members. Through dynamic and individualized instruction, the school cultivates liberally educated, well-rounded individuals well-prepared for college and the years to follow. The mission is to foster students who want to make a positive impact on the world.
Iolani’s boarding school houses up to 112 students from countries and cultures around the world. Iolani has a robust athletics program sponsoring 107 teams at all levels K-12. Seventy-three percent (73%) of high school students participate in athletics. Despite these many sports offerings, the school motto is “One Team,” and all classes are viewed through a Christian lens.

Trinity Christian School: www.tcskailua.net

Nestled in beautiful Kailua, windward side, Trinity Christian School is the only full-time classical Christian school in Hawaii. It features pre-K, kinderprep, kindergarten, and robust classical Christian education through high school.

So, what is the difference between a “classical” and a “traditional” Christian curriculum? Simply stated, the classical model has existed for more than 1,000 years in the West prior to the progressive (traditional) model’s appearance in the early 1900s. The traditional model follows the contemporary public school blueprint (roughly one-hour class blocks, separated by subject, through a biblical worldview). A classical Christian education, however, blends subjects, allowing them to feed into one another organically. The curriculum flows, teaching to the natural development of the child (grammar for younger students, then logic as they grow, followed by rhetoric in later years) and always intertwined with Scripture. Classes are allowed and even encouraged to blend into one another, as all liberal arts subjects are truly intertwined as God created them.

Trinity Christian offers a robust excursion program, regularly taking students K-12 to art museums, farms, nature preserves, and in their senior year, on a trip somewhere around the globe. (Past locations visited include England, Greece, and Italy.)

The mission at Trinity Christian is laser-focused to foster curious, compassionate, critical thinkers. Through individualized instruction, teachers seek to help every student blossom into a well-spoken and humble individual with a broad understanding of and appreciation for a sweeping spectrum of educational subjects. It is not enough just to check off academic boxes or hit standardized benchmarks. The goal at TCS is to engage—to make the students yearn to learn, all on their own. Ultimately, the hope is to take this knowledge into our world, created by God, and make it a better place.

Are you interested in learning more about this exceptional school amid the aforementioned list of best private schools in Hawaii? Reach out today for more information or to set up a campus visit at www.tcskailua.net. 
 

Classical Christian Education Under Scrutiny: Why It’s the Best Choice

Imagine a museum with the most complete collection of history, art, literature, etc. You walk in and feel the knowledge and creativity seeping into you as you take in the exhibits from time-honored traditions and think of the people who were a part of creating this exquisite work. The museum may take you a lifetime to go through, and still, you would not see all it has to offer. 
This is a metaphor for classical education. 
Classical education is a long-standing tradition in education using the liberal arts to study and seek the truth, goodness, and beauty that lie within the pages of classical literature. This style of education focuses on the study of the liberal arts (grammar, logic, and rhetoric—the verbal arts of the trivium) mixed with arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy (the mathematical arts of the quadrivium). Students also study Latin in this classical approach to teach students how to learn and how to think.
But what is the future of classical education?
In recent years, classical education has been under the microscope with the argument that the classics don’t take diverse representation into account. Those who wish studies to go more mainstream embrace the argument that students should see themselves in the canon of works, as opposed to the classical heroes of the past. 
These proposed changes to this type of education are blanketed under the term “classical renewal education,” and proponents of the changes describe the movement as being “woke” to the need for diversity and representation in educational texts. Proponents explain that if the purpose of classical education is for students to learn to think logically and critically, then it is the job of the schools to arm them with diverse tools to help them do just that. 
There are those who do see a need for a renewal of classical education, but in order for that to happen correctly, they have to resist going mainstream and seeking only representation in literature. They believe students should not be so focused on seeing themselves in works of literature, per se, but on looking for universally human lessons. For example, female students shouldn’t only focus on female representation in the classics, but rather they should seek the lessons about what a good life looks like and what events can make a life go awry. 
The only way to make classical education a success is to fuse the classics with lessons from  Christianity. This shows how the stories of the past reflect what the Redeemer did by giving us the perfect picture of a human being—one who practiced purity, humility, love, strength, leadership, wisdom, and more. It is also imperative to show how those lessons apply to the modern world and to infuse modernity with the stories of our ancient past. This style is the one that should be offered more readily. This is classical Christian education. 

Integrating Christianity into Classical Education Makes It Modern
Interestingly, neither side of the argument takes into account that by adding the principles taught in the New Testament of the Bible and our foundations for Christianity, you are modernizing the classics. The ancient Greeks would find Jesus’ teaching in the Gospel of Matthew to “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind” and to “Love your neighbor as yourself” as foreign ideas, as they had never heard something so radical. 
Classical education alone points students toward the search for moral lessons and seeking the good in the world, but it lacks one major component: Christian values. Christianity shows there is grace and mercy when good is not sought, and people can be forgiven. Additionally, adding modernity combined with Christian philosophies may help boost the content of the classics by becoming a source of wisdom for students. 
When it comes to teaching our children to seek the good, like classical education has always done, choosing more mainstream texts and attempting to focus solely on reading books with diverse characters may actually cause more confusion and damage to our students’ young, impressionable minds.

For inclusion of classical education in future educational practices and methods, it must be truly a classical Christian education and integrate the teachings of Jesus Christ with the classic stories on which our society is based. This is our focus at Trinity Christian Schools in beautiful Kailua, Hawaii. We work to make classical Christian education a priority for all students. 
Just like you wouldn’t want those beautiful works removed from that hypothetical museum, removing the classics from education just so that people can see themselves in works would be a detriment to our students. 
Author C.S. Lewis explained it best when discussing how family, schools, and churches need to respond to circumstances as they are and avoid making students define themselves at a young, impressionable age, allowing them to explore morality through the lens of neutrality to learn about what’s right and good in this world.
We will continue to keep an eye on this topic, as it is dear to our hearts. Check back at https://www.tcskailua.net/.
 

The Top 5 Best Preschools Near Me

Every parent is looking for the best preschool for their children. It’s only natural. You want your kids to get a great start to their lives and set them on a path towards lifelong learning, growth, and development. You want them to be leaders and that inquisitive spirit, confidence, and knowledge they need starts before kindergarten.
If you’re looking for a top preschool in Kailua, Windward Side, or Honolulu, Hawaii, you understand the importance of education from a young age. Pre-school and kinderprep are crucial parts of development, and can help children prepare for kindergarten and beyond. Teachers at top preschools understand the importance of nurturing the whole child and helping them grow socially, emotionally, and spiritually.
Finding the right learning and play environment is especially crucial when you are choosing a Christian preschool. A private pre-K program that focuses on social skills, character development, and Biblical foundations prepares children not just for their school life, but for overall life as well.
If you’re looking for the top private preschool near you, here is a list of five of the best in Kailua, Windward Side, or Honolulu, Hawaii, as well as some tips that can help you choose the right private preschool for your child.

The Best Pre-K in Kailua, Windward Side, and Honolulu, Hawaii
When discussing the top preschool choices, we think it’s important to start with TCS Preschool. Trinity Christian School is the only private classical Christian school in Hawaii. The school has a long and successful tradition of partnering with parents to provide high quality education, social development, and spirituality.
TCS Preschool helps children learn before kindergarten by encouraging them to develop their academic skills, exploratory learning techniques, and much more. The school offers both private preschool and kinderprep sessions, which focus on social skills, character development, and independent and group learning. Using stories, songs, and fun activities, children improve their skills and start along the path towards academic success at an early age.
As a Christian preschool with a strong focus on classical education, Trinity Christian School is an excellent choice and the top private preschool in the eyes of many parents.

1.  TCS Preschool at Trinity Christian School

• Mauka Campus: 875 Auloa Road
   
• Makai Campus: 1110 Kailua Road
   
• Kailua, HI 96734
   
• Phone: 808-262-8501
   
• Website: www.TCSKailua.net
   
• Grades: Preschool-12th Grade
   
• Enrollment: 260 students
   

2. Hanalani Schools

• 94-294 Anania Drive 
   
• Mililani, HI 96789
   
• Phone: 808-625-0737
   
• Website: www.hanalani.org 
   
• Grades: Preschool-12th Grade
   
• Enrollment: 699 students

3. Maui Preparatory Academy

• 4910 Honoapiilani Hwy
   
• Lahaina, HI 96761
   
• Phone: 808-665-9966
   
• Website: www.mauiprep.org 
   
• Grades: Preschool-12th Grade
   
• Enrollment: 300 students
  
   

4. Kaimuki Christian School

• 1117 Koko Head Ave
   
• Honolulu, HI 96816
   
• Phone: 808-732-1781
   
• Website: https://www.kaimukichristianschool.org/ 
   
• Grades: Preschool-12th Grade
   
• Enrollment: 318 students
   

5. Kaimuki Christian School

• 1117 Koko Head Ave
   
• Honolulu, HI 96816
   
• Phone: 808-732-1781
   
• Website: https://www.kaimukichristianschool.org/ 
   
• Grades: Preschool-12th Grade
   
• Enrollment: 318 students
   

6. Le Jardin Academy

• Preschool Campus: 1004 Kailua Road
   
• Kailua, HI 96734
   
• Phone: 808-261-0707
   
• Website: www.lejardinacademy.org 
   
• Grades: Preschool-12th Grade
   
• Enrollment: 831 students
  
   

What to Look for in a Private Pre-K School
When you’re comparing preschools, it’s important to think about what matters most to you. What do you want your child to get out of pre-k? For many parents, they want several things. A good private pre-k school will help children develop and grow their language and counting skills, support their cognitive and emotional development, engage in physical activity and age-appropriate play, learn social values such as teamwork and sharing, and provide spiritual guidance.  
Play-based learning in a stimulating environment supported by knowledgeable and caring teachers is crucial. Small class sizes, caring teachers, and personal attention are also key at this age. 
If you’re a parent who is trying to find the perfect preschool for your child, visit Trinity Christian School to learn more about us. You can call our admission manager Natalie Morikawa directly at (808) 690-9533, or reach her by email at nmorikawa@tcskailua.net.
 

10 Classics Every Child Should Read

Have you ever heard the term, “Great Books”?

It’s not just some loose phrase about awesome books you happen to love. “Great Books” is a global academic program that allows students to glean a deep and profound education in the humanities through the study of the great books written and published across history while they are in high school and college.

Great books address the enduring themes of the human condition and do it with artistic mastery. They hold the timeless questions to the light, turning them like a multi-faceted prism, grappling with issues of society and culture; politics and generations—and they are as resonant today as when they were first written. These classics stand as a metaphor to contemporary society, not just some musty and dusty portrait of days gone by.

A Great Books curriculum is built for high school and college students, but the Association of Classical Christian Schools (ACCS) starts with the classics much earlier.  These are books vetted and approved by the ACCS and its members schools. As an ACCS affiliate, at Trinity Christian School, we read “classics,” beginning in Kindergarten with a goal to critically decipher their meaning, and reflect upon their contemporary relevance.  

This is why, for example, we still look at and reference Plato and Socrates, because they address timeless themes of what it means to be human.

The emphasis on the classics in a classical Christian education is not without some controversy. In this moment, in the zeitgeist of literary education, “representation” has been deemed by many as the most vital component when reading at school. After all, every student, no matter who they are, where they are from, or the color of their skin, deserve books that speak directly to them and their experience. And we agree wholeheartedly. We encourage students to explore contemporary works whenever they wish. But ACCS affiliates focus on classics for a number of very good reasons. We believe schools should resist skewing mainstream and seeking only representation in literature. We believe students should not be primarily focused on seeing themselves in works of literature, but should be looking at timeless works with universal human truths that speak to us all. These books are the foundation of literature and art. It is also imperative to show how the lessons in these works apply to the modern world and to infuse modernity with the stories of our ancient past. This method is the one that we emphasize. This is a strong component of a classical Christian education.  

Classics are works that everyone can and should enjoy. We strongly encourage families to explore these works together, not just as homework for a child, but as an opportunity to bring them together, to bond, and to engage in intellectual discourse.  Everyone can benefit from being well-versed in classic literature and art.

Below you will find a list of ten books to get you started, from illustrated children’s books, to the greatest book ever written:

1. A Light in the Attic by Shel Silverstein

This beloved and imaginative book of 135 poems accompanied by captivating  illustrations by the author is great to read aloud. Crammed with memorable and quirky characters (and hilariously profound poems), it is a book that can be enjoyed by preschoolers and grandparents.

In the attic, you will meet “Sour Face Ann,” “the Polar Bear in the Frigidaire,” and you will learn what happens when a Mountain snores. This delightful and charming work, awash in meaning and metaphor, introduces young readers to early concepts of poetry—rhyme, meter, metaphor, imagery, and more.  

2. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle

This is the colorfully illustrated and perennially popular story of a small caterpillar who emerges from an egg and begins eating everything he can. After six days of devouring fruits, sweets, and junk food, he gets a stomach ache. On the seventh day, the caterpillar eats a “nice leaf” and turns into a beautiful butterfly. This is another book that is great to read aloud to young students, with a discussion of the moral questions of self-control, virtue, well-being, happiness, and change.  

3. The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe, by C.S. Lewis

This fanciful and beloved Christian allegory is a portal fantasy that follows four English children during World War II who retreat to a country home during the “London Blitz” wartime evacuation. In a spare bedroom in the country home, they discover a wardrobe that leads them to the fantastic world of Narnia, a land of talking animals and mythical beasts. This classic is rich in Christian symbolism and meaning, allowing readers to discover its hidden truths and profound messaging, all set amidst a world of high imagination and adventure.

4. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

This timeless and much beloved book tells the tale of the friendship between Wilbur, a small pig and the runt of the litter, and an elderly spider named Charlotte. This Newberry Award-winning book tells the tale of a tender friendship, of life, love, and mortality. Filled with beautiful illustrations by Garth Williams (also known for his remarkable work in the Laura Ingalls Wilder Little House Books), Charlotte’s Web is a mainstay for young readers, allowing them to think critically about its messages and themes. There are also animated as well as live action cinematic adaptations.

5. Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Montogomery

Published in 1908, Anne of Green Gables is a classic story for all ages. It tells an adventurous tale of the spirited orphan Anne Shirley and an old-fashioned farm on remote Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia. Eleven-year-old Anne is sent by mistake from her orphanage to a family who intended on adopting a boy. Anne arrives in this distant and beautiful setting and tries to adapt to life with her new family, farm life, and school as she works to win her new family and friends over before she is sent back to the orphanage in exchange for a boy. This much loved classic looks at vulnerability, expectations, and the dreams of a child growing up. Anne of Green Gables has sold over 50 million copies world wide and has been adapted into film and multiple television mini-series.

6. Watership Down by Richard Adams

A timeless English fairy tale and adventure novel that follows a group of rabbits living in the wilds of Southern England whose warren is threatened by mankind and development. The rabbits flee, looking to establish a new, safe place to live, (on the hill of Watership Down), encountering adventure and much danger along the way.

The book examines the epic, mythological themes of journeys, quests, escape, survival, temptation, and reliance—themes explored thousands of years ago by Homer and Virgil. Told through the captivating point-of-view of the anthropomorphised rabbits, the story opens the gateway to wonderful class discussions on its meanings, characters, language and the concept of allegory.

7. Much Ado About Nothing by William Shakespeare

This is the classic Shakespearean comedy about the courtship and scandal involving young “Hero” and her suitor, “Claudio.” But it is the witty war of words between Claudio's friend Benedick and Hero's cousin Beatrice that often takes the center stage. This lighthearted play is a terrific introduction to the works of William Shakespeare, looking at love, confusion, crossed wires, hidden identities, friendship, and marriage.

8. Beowulf

Beowulf is an epic English Poem and often considered by scholars as one of the most important works of English literature, begging the question for ACCS students as to why? This question always leads to a thoughtful, critical discussion.

Beowulf tells the story of a Scandinavian hero who gains fame as a young man by vanquishing the monster Grendel and Grendel's mother and later, as an aging king, he faces a dragon. There are many universal themes present in the epic, including loyalty, heroism, good versus evil, courage, forgiveness, mortality, and generosity.

9. Iliad by Homer

One of the oldest works of literature still widely read today, The Iliad follows the great Greek warrior Achilles, as well as his rage and the destruction it causes. Parallel to this, the story also follows the Trojan warrior Hector and his efforts to fight to protect his family and his people.

10. The Holy Bible

The central text of all ACCS affiliate schools, the Holy Bible is the guiding light for all we do at Trinity Christian School and we read from it, reference it, and look to its meanings for wisdom, humility, guidance, and obstruction each and every day pre-k through 12th grade. It is an essential key to learning about God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit. It is a vital way in which we all spend time with the Lord.

Of course, this list of ten classics is just the very beginning! This list is also aimed at a cross-section of readers across all grades, yet they are all suitable and recommended for families to read together. Throughout an ACCS education, students will look to these works and many, many others. We encourage all families to read classics together, to have dining room table discussions about them, and to bond over the act and joy of reading whenever possible. Children of all ages should have opinions, be able to articulate them, stand behind them with logic and reason, and when parents collaborate on this mission along with Trinity Christian School, students are embarking down a sure path of blessed and wonderful life success.  
 

Kinderprep Classes - Honolulu and Kailua

Storytelling brings us together and bonds us to universal themes and experiences. We learn from stories, flex our imaginations when listening to them, and feel empathy with the characters who inhabit them. Literacy studies show that readers (particularly of fiction) are more empathetic people.

Stories can also provide a necessary escape from the harsh reality of our present-day world. Everyone loves a great story. We all tell them. Telling a story is second nature to human beings and goes back to creation. Stories, of course, are told using basic fundamental narrative building blocks: setting, characters, dialogue, vivid description, scenes, and transitions through time.

Now, imagine your child is a story. The narrative is just beginning! The characters are just being established, and the setting—where you reside, home, and school are the primary locations. It is transitions in stories that can often be tricky for a writer to navigate. They need to be clear, yet nuanced.

The same holds true in a child’s scholastic life. The transition from preschool to kindergarten; kindergarten to elementary school; elementary school to middle school, then high school, and off to the life of the fledgling adult at college are all vital life moments. Attention and care must be given to these transitions, the same way a storyteller guides a reader or a listener from one moment to the next. But we as a society often overlook the academic transitions in the life of a child and just sort of approach them as automatic. There’s a better way.

This is why, at Trinity Christian School in Kailua, we offer a robust, fun, and dynamic Kinderprep program, addressing the very first school transition in the life of a child—moving from Pre-K to Kindergarten. Read on, as we explore Kinderprep at TCS and look at a few other Kinderprep programs on Oahu.
 

First, What is Kinderprep?

At Trinity Christian School, we believe strongly in the gift of time.

Children need love, care, and nourishment to grow. Like any good story, a child needs time to get established. Our Kindergarten Prep offers a schedule and curriculum that is perfectly suited for students who are either slightly below the age cut-off for Kindergarten or need just a bit more time to practice and develop the skills introduced to them in preschool, while also being introduced to the early academics of Kindergarten.

Kindergarten Prep follows the classroom schedule of our elementary program, including the extracurriculars—Art, Music, Swimming, Physical Education, and Hawaiiana. With a shortened nap period compared to preschool, Kindergarten Prep allows for a little more time for the story of your child to unfold, more time for daily academics, and, certainly, copious exploratory and fun learning! 

What are the Academics like in Kindergarten Prep?

Many parents these days want their children to enter Kindergarten with the ability to recognize basic numbers and the letters of the alphabet. And while we certainly meet this goal at Trinity Christian School, our fundamental philosophy is to cultivate curiosity.

We want all of our students, pre-K through high school, to yearn to learn. We want them to look at the outside world full of questions and wonder. We want them to do this outside of the classroom, away from school, out in the everyday world. Enthusiasm for asking questions and seeking answers creates lifetime learners. This is the philosophy in pre-school, and it continues on with more emphasis in the transition year of Kinderprep and beyond up until graduation day.

At TCS, the student’s story is just beginning as we introduce them very gently to the concepts of:

Language Arts - We use a phonics- and grammar-based approach in language arts so that, as students learn the rules that govern the English language, they can later apply them to their reading and writing. To encourage a love of literature, students are exposed to a variety of stories in all subjects. We tell stories, read stories, and students illustrate their own stories.

Additionally, we just begin to introduce students to two methodologies they will be using K-6: The Writing Road to Reading and the Spalding Method.

A simple, clear, and complete K-6 language arts curriculum that teaches reading, writing, and spelling alongside one another. Students need only a pencil, paper, and their imaginations to prepare them for a lifetime love of reading. The Writing Road to Reading is the book and program behind the Spalding Method, which introduces students to the most fundamental aspects of language. 

It is an educational philosophy and approach that consists of time-tested principles of learning. This structured literacy method provides children the tools to understand higher-level texts, becoming excellent analyzers, critical thinkers, writers, and communicators along the way.

History - Students learn history as a narrative, beginning at creation, they learn the important events and people of the ages up to the present day by the sixth grade. We begin this engagement with history starting in Kinderprep.

Math - Our K-6 math program is accelerated and focused on fundamentals to best prepare our students for higher-level math.

To achieve these goals, we utilize Math in Focus: The Singapore Approach. This instructional methodology provides young students with daily opportunities to build conceptual understanding, share problem-solving experiences, develop fluency, begin to acquire mathematical language, and consolidate the skills needed to start on the lifelong path to math mastery. This is where the story of math in a child’s life begins, and makes it fun.

By the end of a student’s Kindergarten Prep year, they are fully prepared for their upcoming transition to Kindergarten and the years of schooling to follow.

Where Does Play-Based Learning Fit In?

 Kinderprep at Trinity Christian School introduces students to the school setting in a Christ-centered, safe, nurturing, and very fun environment. Through creative learning centers, thematic units, crafts, music, games, numerous field trips to farms and forests, museums, and service projects, your child will grow both academically and spiritually, emotionally, socially, and physically.

Students learn through songs, chants, nursery rhymes, fingerplays, hands-on activities, and dramatic play. Ultimately, the program prepares
students for kindergarten, focusing on social-emotional development, as well as continued development of motor skills.

Finally, with a vitally small student-to-teacher ratio (10:1) individualized instruction allows our TCS teachers to really get to know and work one-on-one with students. This, in turn, allows an instructor to identify students’ areas of interest and passions and capitalize on them in daily instruction.

Additionally, some children are visual learners, others are auditory, and still others are tactile. We foster a rich environment where TCS students can explore on their own and engage in activities that interest them and pique their curiosity. We introduce our children to the world in a variety of ways so they can learn visually, auditorily, and fully hands-on.
 

Other Kindergarten Prep Programs in Honolulu and Kailua

As the importance of the transition between preschool and Kindergarten becomes more pronounced, there are several Kinderprep programs that have cropped up across the island of Oahu, including:

Na Maka Kindergarten Prep School Waipahu
Waipahu, HI
(808) 594-2665
https://namakakprep.com/

Na Maka K-Prep School is dedicated to providing a high-quality enrichment and educational opportunity for children ages 2-5 years old.

Le Jardin Academy
Kailua, HI 96734
(808) 261-0707
https://www.lejardinacademy.org/

At Le Jardin Academy, the priority is on the social, emotional, and academic well-being of the youngest learners in Pre-Kindergarten. 

MICAA Kindergarten Prep & Tutoring
Honolulu, HI
(808) 386-7122
https://www.micaatutor.com/

MICAA provides one-on-one Kindergarten prep tutoring to provide young learners with a completely personalized educational program that increases engagement during the learning process, fosters academic improvement, and develops critical thinkers.

Who is eligible for TCS Kindergarten Prep for 2023-2024?

Children born on or before December 1, [PLEASE PROVIDE YEAR]

How to Apply for Kindergarten Prep at TCS

https://trin-hi.client.renweb.com/oa/register.cfm?memberid=399

In Conclusion

We have defined Kindergarten Prep programs, looked at the mission, curriculum, and daily activities at Trinity Christian School, and discussed the paramount nature of transitions between scholastic milestones. 
We have also highlighted a few other Kinderprep programs on the island of Oahu for comparison.

Your child’s life is a story and the book has only just begun. They’re just in the early chapters! But the transitions between these chapters and how they flow into each other is something that more and more Christian parents are recognizing in terms of academic and personal importance.

We invite you to check in regularly on the TCS blog to continue learning more about all of the dynamic offerings and exciting learning opportunities going on at the school!





 

Key Things to Ask When Choosing a Christian Kindergarten

You’ve been looking forward to this time for the past five or six years, but also wishing time would slow down: Your child's educational journey is about to begin, and you want it to be a path that leads to both academic excellence and spiritual growth.

If you're seeking a kindergarten that integrates Christian values and teaching into education, you’ve landed in the right place. Kindergarten is new for some parents and some parents have already sent one or more children through kindergarten. Wherever you fall on that spectrum, there are key things you should be asking the school to make sure it’s a right fit not only academically for your child, but one that fits the needs of your family’s faith as well.

A Christian kindergarten can set your child up for a solid foundation in the Lord for their school years and beyond into adulthood. The earlier you invest in your child’s schooling now and provide Christian education opportunities for them, the more likely they are to get to know the love of Christ early on and live in that love for years to come.

As we mentioned above, there are key things you should be researching and asking prospective schools. Some things you’ll be able to find online, some things you’ll learn through calling or emailing, some things you’ll learn directly on a tour, and some things can be learned from other parents and guardians who have already been through the school’s kindergarten program.

You’ll want to utilize all of these resource
whether or not the school is a good fit for your child.

As promised, here are key things you need to find out before enrolling your child: 

Factors That Set The School Apart

These are subjective, but you’ll know them when you see them. Each Christian kindergarten has its unique approach and values. Starting your exploration by asking what separates the school from others can provide insights into the institution's mission, priorities, and educational philosophy. Look for evidence of these differentiators during your tour, and consider how they align with your family's values and aspirations.

1. A quality curriculum and teaching methods—If parents or guardians don’t come from an education background, they may not know what kind of curricula to look for or how to gauge the quality. You can ask for the names of the different type of curricula the school uses (likely different ones for math, reading, science, and social studies) to ensure they are research-based (i.e. a reading curriculum that is based upon the science of reading) and infuse the Bible in a real-life way throughout the curriculum.   
2. The school’s community involvement and service learning—Yes, learning how to love and serve others in a Christlike way in school is priceless. But applying this learning and putting it into action is even better. Ask the school what sort of service projects they do for the community they are in. This may be found on the school’s social media pages, too. A school with a strong connection to the community and one that regularly gives back to their community is one sign of a strong Christian school, as they live out Christ’s mission of love.
3. The level of parental involvement—Another sign of a strong Christian school is the level of parental involvment. If a lot of parents are regularly participating and helping out, this means that they feel comfortable enough and invited by the school to be present and give back. A school that encourages and facilitates strong parent-teacher relationships and parental participation can create a more cohesive and supportive community for the students. You can gauge this factor by easily talking to other parents and guardians who have already sent their child through the kindergarten program.   
    

How They Support Individual Student Needs

Children have diverse learning styles and abilities. Inquire about the school's approach to working with children who need extra support or those who are advanced learners. A school that is equipped to provide tailored assistance or challenges based on a child's needs can ensure a more personalized and effective learning experience. Just because a school is a private school, doesn’t mean they shouldn’t be willing to provide support for individual students’ needs. Ask about how they refer and assess students for special education, how many special education teachers there, and what sort of services they provide. It’s also a good idea to ask any parents or guardians who you know have a child at the school who receives extra support how their experience has been.

Integration of Christ & The Bible Into Learning

Since you're considering a Christian kindergarten, understanding how the school integrates Christian values and teachings into its curriculum should be one of your main questions. Ask about the strategies and activities the teachers usually use that reinforce Biblical values and knowledge while fostering academic growth. The curricula and lessons should mesh academia and the Bible seamlessly. The two should build up on each other naturally, not just have Biblical content included as an afterthought.

Student-Teacher Ratio

Smaller class sizes often lead to more individualized attention for young children. A low student-teacher ratio allows educators to better understand each child's learning style, strengths, and areas for improvement. This is especially advantageous (and important) in a kindergarten classroom. The National Association for the Education of Young Children suggests a maximum of 12:1 for a student to teacher ration for kindergarten. A number close to this is ideal. Too low of a ratio limits social options. Ask the school what the class sizes have been in the past for their kindergarten classes.

Discipline Policies

Discipline approaches vary widely among schools. It's important to explore how the school as a whole and the kindergarten teacher handles discipline and whether their approach aligns with your family's values and have Biblical teachings infused into them.

Discipline practices are a touchy subject for some, and people have a lot of different opinions about them. Approach this aspect with an open mind to the school administrators and teacher and a willingness to engage in constructive discussions. Making sure how they handle discipline is in line with how you already do at home and matches Christian values before you enroll your child can prevent future conflicts.  

Enrichment & Extracirricular Opportunities

A well-rounded education includes more than just traditional subjects. Inquire about enrichment opportunities beyond the core curriculum, such as art, music, physical education, foreign language, and more. These experiences can spark your child's interests and set the foundation for their future pursuits and passions.

Also ask the school if they have any extra-cirriculars or clubs. Sometimes these aren’t available for kindergarten students, but it doesn’t hurt at all to do your research. As a group, parents can always look at starting some sort of club or extra-cirricular for kindergarteners.

Teacher Qualifications

Inquire about the qualifications the school seeks in their educators. Whether it's specific degrees, certifications, bilingual skills, or a strong foundation of faith, understanding their hiring criteria can help you gauge the quality of instruction your child will receive.

A great kindergarten teacher in a Christian school will not only have the academic credentials to be a teacher, but also have a genuine passion for early childhood education and the Lord. This should be apparent in how he or she interacts with the children.

A Play-Based vs. Traditional Kindergarten Program

Determine whether the kindergarten follows a play-based program, a more traditional approach, or a combination of the two. Consider how the chosen model aligns with your child's learning style and how it will prepare them for future grades. A discussion with teachers or principals will shed light on the school's educational philosophy regarding play in kindergarten.

Also ask about the balance between structured activities and free play within their approach. Research shows that play-based learning in early childhood fosters creativity, problem-solving skills, and social development. Research how the school incorporates these elements into their curriculum to ensure a holistic educational experience for your child.

Financial Aid Options

Private education can be a financial challenge for many families. Inquire about the availability of financial aid or reduced tuition rates based on financial need. Exploring these options can make private Christian education more accessible and affordable for your family. A lot of private Christian schools offer some sort of financial aid or tuition assistance to students in grades K-12.

Bottom Line

As you embark on this exciting chapter of your child's educational journey, seeking a school known for both academic excellence and spiritual growth should be your top priority. If you're searching for a kindergarten that seamlessly integrates Christian values and teaching into education, you're in the right place.

Whether you're a first-time kindergarten parent/guardian or have experience, the alignment of your family's faith with the school's values is key. A Christian kindergarten can provide a sturdy foundation in faith and academics, nurturing a lifelong relationship with Christ. Remember, thorough research, asking the right questions, and asking others for firsthand experiences will guide you toward the ideal fit for your child's kindergarten year.



 

What Are the Liberal Arts?

When some people think of the term “liberal arts,” they don’t necessarily think of practical knowledge that helps people grow as individuals and become leaders. The term has unfortunately been softened, with many people separating the two words and giving the combined term a new meaning. “Liberal” has now become a word used to describe left-leaning individuals and groups, while “arts” now almost exclusively refers to music, painting, sculpting, etc.

However, liberal arts doesn’t mean left-leaning artwork. No, the traditional definition of liberal arts refers to the branches of knowledge and understanding traditionally influencing classic education.
While today the word “art” may refer to artwork, the traditional definition refers to a skill that produces something new. This may be a painting or a sculpture, but it could also be a building, a chair, an idea, or various other creations.
In the classical sense, the word “liberal” refers to free-thinking people. These arts are liberal because those who study them do not seek anyone to direct them. Instead, through their studies, students learn to direct themselves. The study of liberal arts at a classical Christian school is the study of language, mathematics, logic, and more. These studies teach students to value knowledge, understand how to think, and develop leadership abilities.
For these reasons, much of classical education is organized around the seven liberal arts: grammar, logic, rhetoric, arithmetic, geometry, astronomy, and music. Learning and understanding these arts not only provides the student with skills and knowledge, but it also helps learn how to think, teaches leadership abilities, fosters creativity and critical thinking, and much more.
By understanding the liberal arts and how they are taught at classical Christian schools, you begin to see why these schools focus on the study of liberal arts and why students and their parents see such value in this type of education. 

Organizing the Liberal Arts: The Trivium and the Quadrivium

During the Middle Ages, writers started to classify the liberal arts. They realized certain arts pertain to language, reason, and critical thinking while others pertain to numbers, matter, space, and time. These classifications were given names. The three arts of language are named the trivium and the four arts of mathematics and numbers are called the quadrivium.
The trivium is pursued first because the ability to use language—to read, write, speak, and communicate effectively—goes hand in hand with thinking and reasoning.
The arts are organized based on how they can be understood, each step building upon the growing foundation of learning. This is a commonsense practice, since what you learn in one stage helps you understand and learn the next stage. When it comes to the trivium in particular, the different stages also follow the natural stages of human development. 
Structuring learning in this manner not only helps students learn the various arts, but it also provides them with a natural connection to their studies. If your schoolwork is designed based on what you enjoy and what interests you, then you will naturally be more drawn to the work, care more about your studies, and have greater desire to follow the knowledge and grow as a person. 
When students are taught things that interest them and challenge them, while still being accessible, they become more engaged. They care more, start to become the kind of people who care about learning, and desire to attain more knowledge. These people become leaders in the world.

Understanding the Trivium

The trivium includes the first courses of study. It is crucial that young students study language and learn how to understand and communicate effectively. Possessing language skills is a critical part of knowledge, reasoning, and critical thinking. 
The three core stages of the trivium are based on the stages of natural development:

• The Grammar Stage
  This stage typically includes kindergarten through sixth grade.
  Children at this age love learning new things. They are naturally drawn to memorizing and reciting material. They love to learn songs, facts, figures, and information.
  In the grammar stage, students are taught the building blocks of language, such as grammar rules, syntax, vocabulary, and much more.
  It’s also important to note that, while the term “grammar” is typically used in relation to learning a language, a child’s education is often broader. Various arts, trades, and skills have their own “grammars,” meaning they each have their own basic ideas and foundational steps that one needs to learn before mastering the art.
  For instance, students are often drawn to the “grammar” of geography (learning counties, states, capitals, etc.) or history (memorizing dates, places, people, and events). In this stage, these natural inclinations are encouraged. This provides them with a strong foundation for learning and encourages them to appreciate and love the quest for knowledge.
   
• The Logic Stage  
  As students grow older, many naturally become more argumentative. They don’t want to just do as they’re told “because you say so.” Instead, they form their own arguments and make points based on logic and reason.
  Children at this age are also very prone to asking questions. They are not happy with simply knowing that something happened. Instead, they want to know why it happened or what made it happen.
  In this stage, students are taught about cause and effect and how different things relate to one another.
  They learn to analyze arguments, identify logical errors, construct sound reasoning, and evaluate information. They begin to engage in intellectual debates and focus their attention on thinking critically.
   
• The Rhetoric Stage 
  The final stage of the classic trivium is the rhetoric stage. In this stage, students learn to make persuasive arguments based on knowledge and reason. They bring together everything they have learned in the first two stages and begin to express themselves eloquently through writing and speaking.
  They can engage in meaningful dialogue and properly articulate their thoughts and values.
  The ability to effectively communicate, to get a point across, and to express themselves accurately provides students with great confidence.

Understanding the Quadrivium

The quadrivium involves numbers, mathematics, and reasoning. When you think of liberal arts, you may not think of math and numbers, but the reality is that recognizing patterns, theories, and how numbers function in abstract, space, and time are crucial to all arts.
The four disciplines of the quadrivium are:

• Arithmetic 
  This is the study of numbers, concepts, and operations.
  Students learn to recognize patterns, analyze data, and solve problems. This knowledge allows them to look at complex issues and break them down into manageable steps, solving problems and building confidence.
   
• Geometry
  In geometry, students explore the shapes, properties, and relationships of objects in space.
  This helps them develop spatial reasoning and gain insight into the structure and order of the world.
   
• Astronomy 
  This subject combines mathematical knowledge with observation to understand the cosmos.
  Astronomy helps students learn more about the world and the universe around them, causing them to contemplate their existence on God’s creation and inspiring them to look beyond themselves and planet Earth itself to make predictions and find answers.
   
• Music 
  Classifying music as a study of numbers may seem odd at first, but the true study of music goes beyond singing, playing, and appreciating music.
  Students learn the patterns and principles behind melodies, rhythms, and harmonies. This fosters a deep connection to music and the underlying mathematics that make it possible.
   

The Seven Liberal Arts and Education

The seven liberal arts include all the stages and subjects that are part of the trivium and quadrivium. These arts are grammar, logic, rhetoric, arithmetic, geometry, astronomy, and music. These subjects may not be what you think of when you hear the words “liberal arts,” but in a classical Christian education, this is what students receive.
At Trinity Christian School, we believe that it is more important for students to learn to appreciate knowledge and understand how to think for themselves than to simply memorize statistics and figures. This is why we provide a comprehensive liberal arts education.
By learning the liberal arts, students start to recognize their places in the world, form connections between themselves and history, and forge stronger bonds with God’s creation. They learn how to be articulate, to make their points with logic and reason, and how to express themselves with confidence. In short, they learn how to be leaders.
By integrating the liberal arts into everyday learning and by positioning subjects on a historical timeline, students are more engaged and interested in their studies. They develop a much greater understanding of their schoolwork and the world around them. This gives them a much stronger degree of spiritual, emotional, physical, and academic independence that they will carry with them through their entire lives.
For more information, please do not hesitate to contact Trinity Christian School


 

Kinderprep Classes - Honolulu and Kailua

Storytelling brings us together and bonds us to universal themes and experiences. We learn from stories, flex our imaginations when listening to them, and feel empathy with the characters who inhabit them. Literacy studies show that readers (particularly of fiction) are more empathetic people.

Stories can also provide a necessary escape from the harsh reality of our present-day world. Everyone loves a great story. We all tell them. Telling a story is second nature to human beings and goes back to creation. Stories, of course, are told using basic fundamental narrative building blocks: setting, characters, dialogue, vivid description, scenes, and transitions through time.

Now, imagine your child is a story. The narrative is just beginning! The characters are just being established, and the setting—where you reside, home, and school are the primary locations. It is transitions in stories that can often be tricky for a writer to navigate. They need to be clear, yet nuanced.

The same holds true in a child’s scholastic life. The transition from preschool to kindergarten; kindergarten to elementary school; elementary school to middle school, then high school, and off to the life of the fledgling adult at college are all vital life moments. Attention and care must be given to these transitions, the same way a storyteller guides a reader or a listener from one moment to the next. But we as a society often overlook the academic transitions in the life of a child and just sort of approach them as automatic. There’s a better way.

This is why, at Trinity Christian School in Kailua, we offer a robust, fun, and dynamic Kinderprep program, addressing the very first school transition in the life of a child—moving from Pre-K to Kindergarten. Read on, as we explore Kinderprep at TCS and look at a few other Kinderprep programs on Oahu.

First, What is Kinderprep?

At Trinity Christian School, we believe strongly in the gift of time.

Children need love, care, and nourishment to grow. Like any good story, a child needs time to get established. Our Kindergarten Prep offers a schedule and curriculum that is perfectly suited for students who are either slightly below the age cut-off for Kindergarten or need just a bit more time to practice and develop the skills introduced to them in preschool, while also being introduced to the early academics of Kindergarten.

Kindergarten Prep follows the classroom schedule of our elementary program, including the extracurriculars—Art, Music, Swimming, Physical Education, and Hawaiiana. With a shortened nap period compared to preschool, Kindergarten Prep allows for a little more time for the story of your child to unfold, more time for daily academics, and, certainly, copious exploratory and fun learning!

What are the Academics like in Kindergarten Prep?

Many parents these days want their children to enter Kindergarten with the ability to recognize basic numbers and the letters of the alphabet. And while we certainly meet this goal at Trinity Christian School, our fundamental philosophy is to cultivate curiosity.

We want all of our students, pre-K through high school, to yearn to learn. We want them to look at the outside world full of questions and wonder. We want them to do this outside of the classroom, away from school, out in the everyday world. Enthusiasm for asking questions and seeking answers creates lifetime learners. This is the philosophy in pre-school, and it continues on with more emphasis in the transition year of Kinderprep and beyond up until graduation day.

At TCS, the student’s story is just beginning as we introduce them very gently to the concepts of:

Language Arts - We use a phonics- and grammar-based approach in language arts so that, as students learn the rules that govern the English language, they can later apply them to their reading and writing. To encourage a love of literature, students are exposed to a variety of stories in all subjects. We tell stories, read stories, and students illustrate their own stories.

Additionally, we just begin to introduce students to two methodologies they will be using K-6: The Writing Road to Reading and the Spalding Method.

A simple, clear, and complete K-6 language arts curriculum that teaches reading, writing, and spelling alongside one another. Students need only a pencil, paper, and their imaginations to prepare them for a lifetime love of reading. The Writing Road to Reading is the book and program behind the Spalding Method, which introduces students to the most fundamental aspects of language.

It is an educational philosophy and approach that consists of time-tested principles of learning. This structured literacy method provides children the tools to understand higher-level texts, becoming excellent analyzers, critical thinkers, writers, and communicators along the way.

History - Students learn history as a narrative, beginning at creation, they learn the important events and people of the ages up to the present day by the sixth grade. We begin this engagement with history starting in Kinderprep.

Math - Our K-6 math program is accelerated and focused on fundamentals to best prepare our students for higher-level math.

To achieve these goals, we utilize Math in Focus: The Singapore Approach. This instructional methodology provides young students with daily opportunities to build conceptual understanding, share problem-solving experiences, develop fluency, begin to acquire mathematical language, and consolidate the skills needed to start on the lifelong path to math mastery. This is where the story of math in a child’s life begins, and makes it fun.

By the end of a student’s Kindergarten Prep year, they are fully prepared for their upcoming transition to Kindergarten and the years of schooling to follow.

Where Does Play-Based Learning Fit In?

Kinderprep at Trinity Christian School introduces students to the school setting in a Christ-centered, safe, nurturing, and very fun environment. Through creative learning centers, thematic units, crafts, music, games, numerous field trips to farms and forests, museums, and service projects, your child will grow both academically and spiritually, emotionally, socially, and physically.

Students learn through songs, chants, nursery rhymes, fingerplays, hands-on activities, and dramatic play. Ultimately, the program prepares students for kindergarten, focusing on social-emotional development, as well as continued development of motor skills.

Finally, with a vitally small student-to-teacher ratio (10:1) individualized instruction allows our TCS teachers to really get to know and work one-on-one with students. This, in turn, allows an instructor to identify students’ areas of interest and passions and capitalize on them in daily instruction.

Additionally, some children are visual learners, others are auditory, and still others are tactile. We foster a rich environment where TCS students can explore on their own and engage in activities that interest them and pique their curiosity. We introduce our children to the world in a variety of ways so they can learn visually, auditorily, and fully hands-on.

Other Kindergarten Prep Programs in Honolulu and Kailua

As the importance of the transition between preschool and Kindergarten becomes more pronounced, there are several Kinderprep programs that have cropped up across the island of Oahu, including:

Na Maka Kindergarten Prep School Waipahu 
Waipahu, HI 
(808) 594-2665 
https://namakakprep.com/

Na Maka K-Prep School is dedicated to providing a high-quality enrichment and educational opportunity for children ages 2-5 years old.

Le Jardin Academy 
Kailua, HI 96734 
(808) 261-0707 
https://www.lejardinacademy.org/ 

At Le Jardin Academy, the priority is on the social, emotional, and academic well-being of the youngest learners in Pre-Kindergarten.

MICAA Kindergarten Prep & Tutoring 
Honolulu, HI 
(808) 386-7122 
https://www.micaatutor.com/

MICAA provides one-on-one Kindergarten prep tutoring to provide young learners with a completely personalized educational program that increases engagement during the learning process, fosters academic improvement, and develops critical thinkers.

Who is eligible for TCS Kindergarten Prep for 2023-2024?

Children born on or before December 1, [PLEASE PROVIDE YEAR]

How to Apply for Kindergarten Prep at TCS

https://trin-hi.client.renweb.com/oa/register.cfm?memberid=399

In Conclusion

We have defined Kindergarten Prep programs, looked at the mission, curriculum, and daily activities at Trinity Christian School, and discussed the paramount nature of transitions between scholastic milestones.  
We have also highlighted a few other Kinderprep programs on the island of Oahu for comparison.

Your child’s life is a story and the book has only just begun. They’re just in the early chapters! But the transitions between these chapters and how they flow into each other is something that more and more Christian parents are recognizing in terms of academic and personal importance.

We invite you to check in regularly on the TCS blog to continue learning more about all of the dynamic offerings and exciting learning opportunities going on at the school! 
 

Why Your Children's Education Should Consist of Reading Great Books

Many people today worry we have lost our connection to history and our larger place in society. While we now have access to all the world’s information via the internet, it’s difficult not only to understand which sources are accurate and relevant, but also how the ideas and thoughts we read and hear fit into the world at large. As a result, we lose sight of how our actions affect others and the world around us. This leaves many feeling lost and disconnected.   

A solution to this problem is reading the classics. These great books provide us with time-tested concepts encompassing the human experience and connect us to the things we have in common. Not only does this help heal feelings of isolation, but these books also present us with perspectives and ideas that shape how we think, feel, and respond to the world.   

One of the biggest advantages of classical Christian education (CCE) is that it aims to teach children how to learn and think, rather than just focusing on memorizing facts and figures. CCE also encourages students to connect thoughts and ideas to the world at large and to points in history. The connection and relevance help them recognize their place in the world, which makes them more thoughtful, curious, and responsible. Reading classical literature comprises a large part of this goal.  
 

How Reading the Classics Helps Form a Person’s Soul  

The concept of the Christian paideia is one that focuses on developing a person’s soul and providing a deeper connection to Christianity throughout one’s entire life, growing and developing as an individual ages. The Christian paideia places hope, faith, and trust in God. Reading great books fosters this growth.

Great Books Help Students Communicate and Form Ideas   

Classical literature is some of the most beautiful and well-written work ever created. Including these books in the curriculum encourages students to develop a deep understanding of and appreciation for language and words. This not only makes them better writers, but it also gives them a better grasp of the nuances of language, which helps them communicate ideas, formulate arguments, and explain themselves.  

Classic Books Deal with Age-Old Questions  

Living in modern society, we sometimes feel as though our thoughts, feelings, and problems are strange and different from what has come before. However, concepts of justice, right and wrong, truth, and love have existed throughout human history. Many of history’s greatest thinkers and writers have dealt with these issues and have developed profound and powerful thoughts about them.  

While many specific problems of our time are certainly unique, we also have much to learn from our predecessors. When you understand the past, you can better understand the present and the future. Failing to learn from history dooms us to repeat the same mistakes today. But by reading great books, we learn to look at problems through different perspectives, and that gives us the tools we need to solve the problems of our own time.

The Classics Emphasize Cultural and Religious Influences  

Many of the greatest books deal with love, righteousness, morality, and truth. Reading these books and connecting yourself to history creates a rich experience that connects the students of today to the universal Truth of the Gospel.   

Reading the classics helps students understand how this connection to Jesus Christ has existed throughout time. History is linked to how God has ordered the world. By reading and understanding classic literature, students develop a rich moral connection to the world and humankind.  

The curriculum at classical Christian schools such as Trinity Christian School includes reading the classics. We focus on understanding the author’s ideas, point of view, and the lessons of the book. We read the book as it was intended to be read and also enjoy and appreciate each text. While there are certainly lessons to be learned from these great books, they are also written to be enjoyed.   

By loving and appreciating literature’s great works, students connect themselves to history, develop an overall understanding and love of reading, and embrace and respect the ideas of those who have come before them. This provides students with a deep understanding of issues, ideas, human nature, and ethics. As a result, they grow into thoughtful, knowledgeable, and responsible people with a deep love of learning and a desire to seek the truth. For more information on the classical Christian education curriculum and details on the great books and classics that children read as they move through school, please do not hesitate to contact us online.   
 

The Top 5 Best Preschools Near Me

Every parent is looking for the best preschool for their children. It’s only natural. You want your kids to get a great start to their lives and set them on a path towards lifelong learning, growth, and development. You want them to be leaders and that inquisitive spirit, confidence, and knowledge they need starts before kindergarten.    

If you’re looking for a top preschool in Kailua, Windward Side, or Honolulu, Hawaii, you understand the importance of education from a young age. Pre-school and kinderprep are crucial parts of development, and can help children prepare for kindergarten and beyond. Teachers at top preschools understand the importance of nurturing the whole child and helping them grow socially, emotionally, and spiritually.    

Finding the right learning and play environment is especially crucial when you are choosing a Christian preschool. A private pre-K program that focuses on social skills, character development, and Biblical foundations prepares children not just for their school life, but for overall life as well.    

If you’re looking for the top private preschool near you, here is a list of five of the best in Kailua, Windward Side, or Honolulu, Hawaii, as well as some tips that can help you choose the right private preschool for your child.      

 The Best Pre-K in Kailua, Windward Side, and Honolulu, Hawaii

When discussing the top preschool choices, we think it’s important to start with TCS Preschool. Trinity Christian School is the only private classical Christian school in Hawaii. The school has a long and successful tradition of partnering with parents to provide high quality education, social development, and spirituality.  

TCS Preschool helps children learn before kindergarten by encouraging them to develop their academic skills, exploratory learning techniques, and much more. The school offers both private preschool and kinderprep sessions, which focus on social skills, character development, and independent and group learning. Using stories, songs, and fun activities, children improve their skills and start along the path towards academic success at an early age.  

As a Christian preschool with a strong focus on classical education, Trinity Christian School is an excellent choice and the top private preschool in the eyes of many parents.   

The top five best preschools near Kailua, Windward Side & Honolulu, Hawaii: 

1. TCS Preschool at Trinity Christian School
   • Mauka Campus: 875 Auloa Road
   • Makai Campus: 1110 Kailua Road
   • Kailua, HI 96734
   • Phone: 808-262-8501
   • Website: www.TCSKailua.net
   • Grades: Preschool-12th Grade
   • Enrollment: 260 students
2. Hanalani Schools
   • 94-294 Anania Drive
   • Mililani, HI 96789
   • Phone: 808-625-0737
   • Website: www.hanalani.org
   • Grades: Preschool-12th Grade
   • Enrollment: 699 students
3. Maui Preparatory Academy
   • 4910 Honoapiilani Hwy
   • Lahaina, HI 96761
   • Phone: 808-665-9966
   • Website: www.mauiprep.org
   • Grades: Preschool-12th Grade
   • Enrollment: 300 students
4. Kaimuki Christian School
   • 1117 Koko Head Ave
   • Honolulu, HI 96816
   • Phone: 808-732-1781
   • Website: https://www.kaimukichristianschool.org/
   • Grades: Preschool-12th Grade
   • Enrollment: 318 students
5. Le Jardin Academy
   • Preschool Campus: 1004 Kailua Road
   • Kailua, HI 96734
   • Phone: 808-261-0707
   • Website: www.lejardinacademy.org
   • Grades: Preschool-12th Grade
   • Enrollment: 831 students

What to Look for in a Private Pre-K School 

When you’re comparing preschools, it’s important to think about what matters most to you. What do you want your child to get out of pre-k? For many parents, they want several things. A good private pre-k school will help children develop and grow their language and counting skills, support their cognitive and emotional development, engage in physical activity and age-appropriate play, learn social values such as teamwork and sharing, and provide spiritual guidance. 

Play-based learning in a stimulating environment supported by knowledgeable and caring teachers is crucial. Small class sizes, caring teachers, and personal attention are also key at this age.

If you’re a parent who is trying to find the perfect preschool for your child, visit Trinity Christian School to learn more about us. You can call our admission manager Natalie Morikawa directly at (808) 690-9533, or reach her by email at nmorikawa@tcskailua.net.

There is Classical Christian Education, and there is Trinity Christian School

All things grow and evolve, including educational practices established centuries ago.

The principles of a Classical Christian Education date back to ancient Greece and its master philosophers. Classical Christian Education is time-honored, and it firmly establishes a Biblical worldview as it integrates concepts based on the natural phases of child development. It also cultivates the seven Christian virtues (humility, kindness, patience, diligence, temperance, abstinence, and chasity) while fostering in all students the concepts of reasoning, critical thinking and confident public presentation.

In the parlance of Latin, these principles are coined: the Paideia (the fostering of the soul); the Trivium (grammar, logic, and rhetoric); and the Quadrivium (arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy).
A Classical Christian Education uses a Biblical framework to understand everything. It also sees subjects, not as individual classes based on a single topic (say, mathematics, or history), but a curriculum that intersects and flows, where math might inform language arts which in turn informs social studies, science, the arts, and beyond.

Subjects are integrated around the truth that God is Creator of all that exists.

Now, what sets Trinity Christian School in beautiful Kailua, windward side, apart from the many wonderful CCE schools around the globe? How has TCS continued to grow and evolve as a living curriculum and a vibrant and close-knit community, alive and awash in the Spirit of our Lord?

It begins with the humble understanding that we are always a work in progress, actively listening to parents, students, faculty and staff. We are growing constantly in our recognition and praise of our Creator.
Christ forms the very center of our purpose and practice at Trinity. Our intellectual pursuits are satisfied by Him, “in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge” (Col 2:3). Our moral pursuits are motivated by the life HE lived, the cross HE bore, and the gift HE secured. It is through Christ that we find our ultimate purpose in education.

At TCS we view ourselves as an Ohana—or a “family.”

While we have grown since our founding in 1981 (and even more so in recent years), we are still at our core a welcoming fellowship, striving to know and care for our students and their families by name with mindful intention.

One important conviction at Trinity is to partner with parents as they raise their children. We believe that parents are the primary educators of their children, and that this partnership can be a nurturing source of support, spiritually, educationally, and socially.

As we collaborate each day with our families, we also strive to look at new and exciting ways to learn and evolve. First and foremost, we believe that YES, learning can and should be fun. The fundamental problem with institutionalized, rote education is that the end result is many students dread going to school. We strive to instill in every Trinity Christian student a deep-seated love of learning and a foundational curiosity for life, beauty, and knowledge.

All across our integrated curriculum, our extra-curricular activities, and our many off-campus excursions, we guide students to value learning as a lifetime pursuit of truth, goodness, and beauty. Students delight in all subjects and disciplines with wonder and awe for the Author of them.

We guide students to undertake with confidence challenging subjects and to read carefully, critically and copiously. Trinity students seek to understand both sides of an argument with intellectual honesty. They are thinkers. Again and again, they exhibit a mastery of subjects and excellence in academic pursuits. They recognize the mind/body connection and are physically trained for health, fitness, and strong mental health as a result.
Our broad range of “excursions” takes students—PreK all the way up to 12th grade— outside the classroom to learn – whether it’s at a local Hawaiian farm, the Honolulu Museum of Art, the Lyon Arboretum, or our “Grand Tour” for seniors which embarks upon a two-week trip around the world to destinations such as Europe.

Our robust athletics program recognizes the inherent value in sports—teamwork, confidence, good sportsmanship, and a healthy sense of competition. The Trinity Lions  glorify Jesus Christ through athletic participation and competition in volleyball, basketball, soccer, cross country and more.

At Trinity Christian School, our Classical incorporation of technology into the classroom is handled delicately with wisdom and moderation. At TCS, we utilize technology, not as a shiny new device but rather as a tool to be used within our curriculum. This is how the classical education model meets the modern world. When technology evolves, we evolve with it, but we do not change the focus and content of our curriculum.
Above all, as we humbly surrender to the idea that each day, we as educators have as much to learn as our students. We arrive to our campus inspired to learn and grow, inspired to collaborate with our families, and grateful that we can, in theory and in practice, celebrate the word and glory of Jesus Christ, or Lord.

Learn more by visiting https://www.tcskailua.net/academics/homeschoolextension.cfm or give us a call at (808) 262-8501

Finding the Best Presbyterian Churches and Schools in Kailua

Finding a church that will not just help you grow in your relationship with God, but also feel like your spiritual home is important. In addition, choosing a school that will go well beyond providing an exceptional education, and also help them to grow spiritually can be hard for parents. Fortunately, if you live in the Kailua area, you will have a lot of different churches and schools that you can choose from. 

Take some time to look at your options so you can choose a faith community where you will feel right at home is important. Read on to learn more about some of the most popular churches and private schools in and around Kailua. 

Trinity Presbyterian Church and School 

Trinity Presbyterian Church is the spiritual home to hundreds of families, and it is easy to see why. With a focus on bringing people together to learn more about God and His grace is really just the beginning of what you will find. In addition to moving Sunday sermons, Trinity Presbyterian Church offers many ways that you can get involved and join others to serve.     

Trinity Christian School in Kailua is another huge reason why so many families choose to worship here. TCS is a private school that offers a classical Christian education. This means that students will receive a Christ-centered education from Pre-K through 12th grade.  In addition to providing students with traditional learning opportunities, TCS focuses on key educational concepts based on the age of the children:     

· Grammar – From Pre-K to 6th grade, students will be taught classical grammar concepts, which will prepare them with an essential foundation on which knowledge can be built.     
· Logic – 7th and 8th graders at TCS are not just taught what to think, but how to think, using classical logic. This includes classes on logical thinking, writing skills, and critical reading.     
· Rhetoric – From grade 9 to 12, students at Trinity Christian School will learn the art of rhetoric, which helps them to take their knowledge and put it to use. This is done through rhetorical techniques and forming their own persuasive arguments.     

Thanks to this approach, a TCS graduate will be prepared to excel in all areas of life. This education, combined with Christ’s teachings taught each Sunday at church, make this an ideal home for families, and is why Trinity Presbyterian Church and School is the top choice in Kailua.   

First Presbyterian Church of Honolulu  

First Presbyterian Church of Honolulu is a contemporary church with a mission to ‘love God, love people, and reach the world for Jesus Christ.’ This community boasts a beautiful facility which includes not just the church but also areas where community activities, bible studies, live groups, and prayers can take place.  

This church typically has different ‘series’ of messages that are taught on Sunday and focus on a different topic or part of the bible. Many people love this approach as it allows them to take a deeper dive into important areas of their faith life, which may otherwise be missed. While First Presbyterian does not have a school associated with it, their members do love the teachings that are heard each week.  

Christ Church Uniting Disciples & Presbyterians  

Christ Church Uniting was formed in 1974 when Christ Presbyterian Church and Christian Church of Kailua merged together, forming a community that includes members of more than one Christian denomination. This church labels itself as an all-inclusive, progressive community of faith. While the church is smaller in size than many others in the area, it does offer a variety of ministries to help grow in faith and community. This church does not have a school associated with it.  

City Church Honolulu  

City Church Honolulu is an active Presbyterian church located in Honolulu. This community is made up of people of all ages that come together to worship Christ each Sunday. Thanks to the location of this community, you will find college students, young families, working professionals, and retired people all worshiping together.  

While City Church does not have its own school associated with it, they do put in a lot of effort to reach out to children of all ages. They have a cry room where parents can take infants and small toddlers so they can still hear the important message, while their children are able to play. Preschool and elementary aged kids can take part in Keiki Sunday School classes during the sermon. Junior high and high-school aged kids are engaged with monthly socials, age-focused Bible studies, one-on-one discipleship, and more.     

Which One is Right for You?  

When you are looking for a community to help you with your faith journey, it is important that you take the time to find one that really feels like home. There are many great Christian churches and schools in and around Kailua, so how do you know which one will be the best fit? We have found that Trinity Presbyterian church and school provide a welcoming faith-based community, which is why it was chosen as the best option in the area.     
 

Classical Christian Education: What Sets Trinity Christian School Apart

Are you looking for something deeper than just a cookie-cutter private Christian school for your child? Something a lot of parents and guardians don’t know is that there are different types of faith-based schools out there! One little-known, but impactful type of private school is a Classical Christian school. They are still Christ-centered, but also dig deeper into what it truly means to be a life-long learner. Trinity Christian School (TCS) is a Classical Christian school right here in Kailua, Hawaii!

What sets TCS apart from other schools? While both types of settings share a commitment to Biblical values and a strong academic curriculum, there are some key differences in the way they approach education. 

The Classical Christian Education Model

The Classical Christian education model is rooted in the ideas of ancient Greek and Roman thinkers, and is based on the belief that education should focus on the development of critical thinking skills and a deep understanding of the world around us. The curriculum is divided into three stages, known as the Trivium, which are the Grammar stage, the Logic stage, and the Rhetoric stage.

The Grammar Stage

The Grammar stage, which typically covers grades K-6, is focused on teaching students the basic building blocks of knowledge. Students are taught the fundamentals of math, science, history, literature, and language arts during this stage. They are also taught the skills of memorization and recitation, which help to build a strong foundation for future learning.

At TCS, the Grammar stage is characterized by a strong emphasis on the fundamentals of reading, writing, and math. Students are taught phonics-based reading skills, grammar and composition skills, and basic math skills such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. In addition, they are introduced to the study of history and literature, with a focus on the development of foundational knowledge in these subjects.

The Logic Stage

The Logic stage, which is represented in grades 7-8, is focused on teaching students how to think critically and to make connections between different areas of knowledge. During this stage, students are taught logic, formal and informal argumentation, and the use of primary sources. They also begin to explore more complex topics in history, literature, and science.

The Logic stage largely deals with the development of critical thinking skills. Students are taught the art of argumentation, as well as the skills of analysis and synthesis. They are also introduced to the study of Latin, which helps to develop their understanding of the structure of language and their ability to learn other languages. This is the stage where students are explicitly taught how to think, not what to think.

The Rhetoric Stage

The Rhetoric stage, covered in grades 9-12, is focused on teaching students how to communicate effectively and persuasively. During this stage, students are taught rhetoric, the art of persuasion, as well as advanced topics in history, literature, and science.

The Rhetoric stage focuses on the development of communication skills. Students are taught the art of rhetoric, including the skills of persuasion, public speaking, and debate. They are also introduced to advanced topics in history, literature, and science, with an emphasis on the core skills of the Logic stage: development of critical thinking skills and the ability to make connections between different areas of knowledge.

Infusion of Biblical Beliefs and Worldview Into the Curriculum

One of the unique features of TCS as a Classical Christian school is its infusion and integration of Biblical values and beliefs right into the curriculum. In addition to the study of academic subjects, students are also taught Biblical theology and are encouraged to explore their faith through prayer, Bible study, and service to others.

The integration of Christ-centered values and beliefs is evident in every aspect of our school's curriculum. Students are taught the importance of faith, love, and service, and are encouraged to explore the Bible and to develop a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. They are also taught to value the dignity and worth of every human being, and to live lives that reflect the love and compassion of Christ.

TCS is dedicated to helping our students develop a Biblical worldview. We teach our students to view the world through the lens of the Bible, and we believe that this perspective helps our students understand the world around them and their place in it. Our teachers are committed to nurturing the spiritual growth of our students, and they integrate Biblical principles into every aspect of our curriculum.

Bottom Line

If you are on the lookout for a private Christian education for your child right here in Kailua, we encourage you to explore TCS. We are a Classical Christian school that has integrated Christ into everything that we teach and we not only teach the core subjects, but believe that learning is far deeper than that. This is shown in our teaching of critical thinking, logic, and rhetoric. We help to form and mold life-long learners in the image of Christ here at TCS.

There are several options for you to experience what it’s like here at TCS. You can give us a call to learn more or to book a campus visit or even a shadow day where you get to experience first-hand what it’s like to be a student at TCS: 808-262-8501 or visit www.tcskailua.net.
We look forward to hearing from you!
 

Trinity Christian School: Now Offering HomeSchool Extension (HSE) Classes To Students In Grades 7 Through 12

It can be tough to sort through the multitude of curriculum options and teaching strategies available to you as the parent or guardian of a homeschooled student. On top of that, the decisions that you are making right now for your child will have a significant impact on their future. That's why it's essential that you have a trusted partner in your child’s education.

You choose to homeschool your children because you want to provide them with the best Christian education possible. It's an admirable decision, and one that requires a great deal of time, effort, and dedication. However, while homeschooling can be a wonderful way to give your kids the Christian education they deserve, there are certain experiences that simply cannot be replicated at home. 

At Trinity Christian School, our Homeschool Extension program is designed to give students the opportunity to learn in a collaborative environment with like-minded peers and experienced teachers. Our teachers work hard to create a learning experience that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. By enrolling in our Homeschool Extension program, your child will have access to a variety of activities, clubs, and events that provide them with a well-rounded education. From high level academics to sports, our program helps students develop essential life skills like leadership, teamwork, and communication. This article will cover all the information you need to give your child the opportunity to thrive academically and socially by enrolling them in the TCS Homeschool Extension program.

Credit and Transcripts

As an accredited school, Trinity Christian School will grant credits per classes that have been satisfactorily completed. TCS classes run for an entire school year; therefore, credits are issued at the end of the school year, not at the end of a semester. Classes that meet one hour per day, five days a week, will receive one credit hour at the end of the school year. Classes that meet for one hour, for either 2 or 3 days a week, will receive 0.5 credits at the end of the school year. 

Behavior Standards

The HSE student and their parents are responsible for reading the Parent Handbook and Secondary Student Handbook in their entirety. While on campus, the HSE student is accountable for all policies and expectations as they apply to full-time students. Any HSE student whose conduct is contrary to these standards of behavior will enter a disciplinary process. 

Computer Access

The HSE student will need a computer and a printer to complete assignments. Lessons are currently in the Microsoft Office format. The HSE student and their parents will access FACTS Family Portal, an online information system, and Microsoft TEAMS for classroom information. They will need to set up accounts once enrolled. Parents and their HSE student will agree to and sign the Student Computer Use Agreement when utilizing a personal laptop on campus.

Tuition

For the 2023-2024 school year, the tuition for HSE classes is $1,200 per credit, $900 for a half-credit, and $300 for sports classes (including Cross-Country, Volleyball, Basketball, and Soccer). The application fee and tuition are non-refundable, non-transferable, non-reversible, and cannot be prorated. Enrollment applications are accepted from April, and the deadline is July 31st. Upon enrollment, a non-refundable, non-transferable $500 deposit is due, and the remaining balance of tuition is due by August 14th. Financial discounts or tuition assistance is not applicable to HSE classes. Also, the maximum credits for HSE students are limited to three. 
Home School Extension Student Fees

In addition to the tuition, students may also have to pay additional fees for things like book packs (around $150), sports classes ($300 per activity), Lion's Camp (two nights for $200), and testing fees (PSAT for $115, CTP for $130, and AP Exam for $180). The full cost of the Senior Trip is also required for seniors who want to participate in this program. Graduation Ceremony participation fees are to be determined. 
 

Extra-Curricular Activities with Academic Class

HSE students are welcome to join full-time students for many Secondary School activities, including participation in the House System activities. HSE students taking an academic class may also try out for and participate in athletics and drama programs if they are chosen and meet the grade requirements for courses taken at Trinity. A separate fee will be charged for each activity.

Sports Class with no Academic Class

HSE students looking to participate in extracurricular sports only (including Cross-Country, Volleyball, Basketball, and Soccer) will need to complete a one-time-only application. After the application is approved, HSE Sports Class students may try out for and participate in any of the athletics programs. A separate fee per activity will be charged after the student has tried out for and been accepted onto the desired sports team.

An Invitation

We understand that every parent's situation is unique, so we offer a range of programs to suit your family's needs. Whether you prefer a full-time program or specific classes, we can tailor an experience that will provide your child with an excellent and immersive education. We invite you to take advantage of this opportunity to give your child a well-rounded education that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Our Homeschool Extension program enrollment period runs from April to July 31st. To learn more, please visit This Link or call us at (808) 262-8501. Partner with Trinity Christian School and provide your child with the Christian education they deserve! 

Why You Should Integrate Classical Christian Education Subjects in Your Curriculum

Integrating classical Christian Education Subjects into your regular curriculum is the ultimate way to introduce your children to the majesty of God in a way that speaks to them. And what better way to do this than to go to the world-class Trinity Christian School? Keep reading to find out more.

Before we get into why you should make sure that Christian Education is implemented into your child’s regular curriculum and its many benefits, let’s define Christian Education.

     
While the importance of regular teachings is always maintained, Classical Christian Education – or CCE – is a type of education in which Biblical studies and a Biblical curriculum are introduced and seamlessly integrated into your regular school curriculum. While traditional subjects help the students maintain their vocational intelligence and affords a firm educational foundation, CCE helps in building the student’s moral code and personality while teaching them important lessons about faith using a Biblical framework which often includes interesting subjects such as art and history.

Moreover, CCE is referred to as “classical" because it uses the framework and education that has been passed down over centuries helping influence and shape the minds of thousands of great people in history. Classical Christian Education answers the questions of the world using logic, rhetoric, grammar, and history.

The main purpose of Christian Education is to incorporate Biblical studies into regular studies to teach the ultimate message of God and how he is present in every subject because ultimately we all belong to him. In this age, we are used to seeing children follow the same schedule week in and week out; while these methods may help them get a lot of knowledge about the world, it teaches them nothing about how that world came to be and how God built it all, how man came to be. This is the mission of providing Christian Education. So, your children will not only know that there is a God, they will learn, in detail, about how it all came to be and how God is always there for them.    

  
How Can You Integrate CCE into Regular Curriculum? 

Typically, schools today divide subjects into two categories – Humanities and STEM, or in other words, social studies and science. While humanities focuses on subjects like literature, social science, history, and more, STEM includes subjects that require more critical thinking such as chemistry, algebra, etc. You see, all the knowledge of the world and how it came to be is included in the first category while all the information about the natural world, about how things grow and are made is in the STEM category. Needless to say, these separations of subjects can be downright dangerous. Since both of these subject categories contain God’s truth, they should not be separated to this degree.

This is where Classical Christian Education comes into play. Even in ancient times, there was a segregation of subjects. However, it was never done to a degree that it is today. In other words, the subjects in ancient times were not isolated from each other on the level that we see in schools today.

Back in time, ancient sources sorted subjects based on different types of knowledge rather than just by topic. This helped create well-rounded individuals in classical education who were competent in various areas. Remember the famous renaissance men? They were masters of many trades. For instance, Leonardo da Vinci was both an artist and an inventor. Also, Benjamin Franklin didn't just invent bifocals and lightning rods, he did these things in his free time! In those times, subjects were categorized something like this:

• Theoretical Arts - Math, Physics, Theology  
• Practical Arts - Politics, Economics, Ethics  
• Mechanical Arts - Hunting, Commerce, Agriculture  
• Logical Arts - Grammar, Rhetoric, Logic

You see, subjects were put into categories based on the knowledge they provided and not on the subject itself.    
   
Quality Over Quantity 

In education, there is a saying, "much, not many," which means teaching deeply rather than broadly.

The number of subjects taught is not as important as how well students learn to think while studying them, a classic case of quality over quantity that CCE follows. Modern education often gives students only a surface-level understanding of numerous subjects, racing over topics to check curricular boxes, hoping that students will find their passion and specialize later on. However, classical education prioritizes teaching thinking skills, which are essential tools for learning, such as language, communication, logic, investigation, puzzle-solving, and general common sense. These skills build more well rounded human beings.

And all of this equips students with the necessary tools to fully understand and excel in any subject in the future. Classical schools integrate the humanities into a single class, where classic literature is studied alongside its historical context while exploring theological and philosophical questions. Teachers collaborate to ensure that students are building a foundation of knowledge that they can apply in all areas of their academic and personal lives.

And now, it’s your turn to pass this knowledge and make sure that your children get the education they deserve.

Experience the benefits of a classical education at Trinity Christian School. Our focus is on teaching thinking skills and the tools of learning that benefit students throughout their lives.

Give us a call today to learn more about our programs and schedule a visit: https://www.tcskailua.net/about/contact-us.cfm 

Trinity Christian School's Homeschool Extension Program

Learn about the homeschool extension program at Trinity Christian School in beautiful Kailua, HI. We offer a comprehensive curriculum for students in grades 7-12.

Are you looking for a trusted and reputable homeschooling program in the beautiful Kailua, HI area? Look no further than Trinity Christian School’s Home School Extension (HSE) program. We offer courses to students in grades 7-12 as space is available, with priority given to our full-time students.

Read on to learn more about how HSE can benefit your family.

Why Choose HSE? 
At Trinity Christian School (TCS), we understand the unique needs of military families and homeschoolers alike. Our Homeschool Extension program was created to give parents peace of mind knowing that their children are receiving a quality education from experienced teachers. Not only does our program provide students with a comprehensive curriculum, but it also offers them the opportunity to gain up to three credits per year. Additionally, our HSE students are eligible to participate in our drama and athletic programs that allow students to explore their interests and develop new skills. 

Our teachers are highly qualified and dedicated professionals who strive to ensure that all of our students receive the best possible education and experience. We believe that each student needs to be treated as an individual in order to encourage them to reach his or her full potential. We understand that each student learns differently, so we provide personalized instruction tailored specifically to meet each individual’s needs.  
 
What Sets Us Apart? 
At TCS, we believe in providing our students with a comprehensive educational experience that goes beyond just academic achievement. We want our students to develop into well-rounded individuals who are prepared for success not only in college but also in life. Our holistic approach includes character development programs and service learning opportunities designed to help build self-confidence and instill a sense of responsibility in our students.

While we do give priority to our current students and qualified children of church members, we accept applications from anyone who is interested in enrolling their child in our HSE program, regardless of race, color, gender, programs and privileges. To start the process, fill out the applications which are made available in the beginning of September. By filling out this application, you are essentially requesting for your child to join the following year. After we receive your application, you will participate in a family interview by our Secondary School Principal.  

After meeting the necessary requirements, HSE students can join our house system, take part in our athletic offerings and even get involved in the drama program. For their academic success, all HSE students will need a computer and a printer. To complete the lessons, you will need to install Office 365 and RenWeb – an online grade book where parents and students can create accounts. An agreement for laptop use also needs to be signed by both parents and the student before accessing equipment on campus. Our goal is for every student to benefit from what we have to offer so come get involved!      
                        
If you’re looking for a quality homeschooling program for your family, look no further than Trinity Christian School's Home School Extension (HSE) program in Kailua, HI! Our experienced faculty provide personalized instruction tailored specifically for each student’s needs and goals as well as extracurricular activities designed to help young people grow into well-rounded individuals prepared for success both academically and personally. Contact us today for more information by giving us a call at (808) 262-8501 or schedule a phone or Zoom call through our website at https://www.tcskailua.net/

A Parent's Checklist for Moving to Oahu

Are you planning to move to Oahu with your family? It's an exciting decision, and there's a lot to think about! In addition to planning out all of the beautiful beach and volcanic family excursions, there are other less-fun matters to consider. After all, you are picking up your entire family to move somewhere completely new! 

It’s important to make sure all of your bases are covered in order to make the transition from your current residence to Oahu as smooth as possible, for yourself and all family members involved. How about a checklist to start the planning process off on the right foot? Well, here’s your lucky day! We’ve gone one started for you! Review the checkout list below to make the moving process easier.

Check out the schools

Be sure to research what schools are in the area. There are all kinds of schools available on Oahu, whether you are searching for traditional public school or classical Christian education, you will be able to find one that fits your family's needs. Please be sure to set up school interviews and campus tours as soon as you can, preferably before you arrive! 
 

Revisit your budget
Check out the cost of living in Oahu – it might be more expensive than you expect due to exports. According to one study, Hawaiian living is 93% higher than the national average. To prevent further sticker shock, make sure you mentally prepare yourself for Hawaiian living by making some key adjustments to your family budget and spending. 
Research the climate trends
Take a look at the climate and ask the locals what the seasons are like. Depending on what you are normally used to for fall, winter, spring and summer, you may be in for a significant wardrobe adjustment! Say “goodbye” to your heavy winter clothes and say “aloha” to your shorts and Hawaiian shirts! 
 

Get a Hawaii Driver's License 
If you are moving to Oahu from another state in the US, you will need to get a Hawaii driver's license within 30 days of moving. Before you visit the DMV, be sure to bring your out-of-state driver's license, proof of insurance, and proof of identity (like a birth certificate or passport). You will be thankful you did! 
 

Set Up Utilities 
You will need to set up electricity, water, and trash service for your home. The good news is that you can do this all online! Just go to the websites for the Honolulu Board of Water Supply and the City and County of Honolulu Department of Environmental Services. 
 

Get a Library Card 
All Hawaii residents can get a card from any public library in the state, which gives them access to e-books, audiobooks, magazines, music, movies, and more. You will just need to fill out an application and show proof of residency (like a driver's license or utility bill). 
 

Learn the Bus System
The bus system on Oahu is actually really great—it's clean, efficient, and cheap! A monthly pass is only $60, which is way cheaper than owning a car (not to mention the hassle of finding parking). You can use Google Maps to plan their route and see real-time arrival times for buses. 
 

Sign up for Beach Passes 
If you and your family want to take advantage of all the amazing beaches Oahu has to offer, they'll need to get a beach pass. These are free for residents and can be obtained by showing proof of residency at any satellite city hall or recreation center. With a beach pass, your student will be able to use all city beach parks—including Waikiki Beach!

Moving to Oahu is a big deal—but with this checklist, you and your family can make sure you all have everything you need to make the transition smoothly. From getting a Hawaiian driver's license to signing up for beach passes, this list will help you cover all your bases so you can rest easy.

Are you looking to place your kids in a loving and nurturing school environment that will gently challenge them academically? Give us a call! At Trinity Christian School in Kailua, we are always opening our doors for new students who are eager to be part of a strong community that fosters leadership and virtue. Book a free campus tour by visiting our website at https://www.tcskailua.net/ 
 

Classical Christian Education: More than Just Good Grades

Are you considering a classical Christian education for your child but not quite sure what it is? You're not alone. In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in this type of education, but it can still be somewhat of a mystery to those who are unfamiliar with it. Until you dive deeper, it is hard to understand how classical Christian education stands out from other learning institutions and methodologies.

If you’ve been weighing the pros and cons of classical Christian education vs public education to see if it is the right fit for your child, look no further. Read on to learn more about what classical Christian education actually is, the makeup of the curriculum, and the benefits.

How Classical Christian Education was Created
Classical Christian education is a unique approach to schooling that integrates a Christ-centered worldview with the best of what has been learned throughout history. The first inception was known simply as classical education, which began in Greece around 400 B.C. Aristotle was one of the first few teachers and he primarily taught sons of aristocrats. Aristotle’s educational model focused on teaching virtue and independence, with an emphasis on fortitude, temperance, justice and prudence. His goal was to instill these beliefs and values into young minds in order to help them cultivate their leadership abilities.

By the time of Christ, various Greek sects had developed beliefs about the nature of the divine. One of these beliefs, which was held by the Stoics and Epicureans, was that there was a perfect, divine essence that was the source of all reality. This essence was known as the Logos, which is translated as "word" in English. In Acts 17, we see that Paul preached about the one true God to the Greeks in Athens. He explained that this God had created everything and was therefore sovereign over all reality. The Greeks were very intrigued by Paul's teaching, and they asked him to explain more about this God. In John 1, we see the clear connection between the Greek concept of the Logos and Jesus Christ. For the next 2000 years, classical Christian education would set the foundation for Christian culture in the West.

Around the turn of the 20th century, classical Christian education fell out of popularity when American school systems moved toward a more progressive curriculum. But a new resurgence, known as the classical Christian movement, came about in 1980 when parents from the states of Kansas, Idaho and Indiana wanted to provide this kind of education for their children. By the time 1994 rolled around, the Association of Classical Christian Schools (ACCS) was created to keep up with the growing demand for spreading the classical Christian education curriculum.

The classical Christian education model continues to thrive today as an alternative to the traditional public school model. This is especially due to the ever-changing public school and private school curriculum, culture, and agenda. Many are finding out that the Classical Christian education’s mission of shepherding a child’s heart (being able to speak to a student’s heart) and teaching in the way that the Bible instructs us to is the way that God truly intended. It’s the purest way of educating that custom fits how Jesus wants us to teach using the Bible and supporting curriculum as the educational tools. 

The Classical Christian Education Curriculum
This approach to education has its roots in the medieval trivium and quadrivium, which consisted of the seven liberal arts: grammar, logic, rhetoric, arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy. These arts were seen as essential for a well-rounded education because they helped students to develop both the left and right sides of their brains.

Today, classical Christian schools still place a strong emphasis on developing well-rounded students. In addition to the core academic subjects (e.g. math, English, science), students also receive instruction in art, music, Latin, and logic. This type of comprehensive education helps students to think critically and creatively, and to see the world from multiple perspectives.

Classical Christian schools also differ from traditional public schools in their approach to teaching. Rather than focusing on memorization and regurgitation, classical Christian teachers seek to instill in their students a love of learning. They do this by using a variety of methods including Socratic discussions, lectures, readings, debates, and hands-on projects. This approach helps students to understand concepts on a deeper level so that they can apply them in real-life situations.

The Benefits of Classical Christian Education
There are many benefits associated with classical Christian education. One of the most obvious benefits is that students who attend these types of schools tend to excel academically. In fact, studies have shown that students who attend classical Christian schools outperform their peers on standardized tests by 30%.

But academic success is just one part of the equation. Classical Christian schools also place a strong emphasis on character development. Students learn how to become compassionate leaders who are able to think critically and solve problems creatively. They also learn how to respect authority and serve others with humility. These skills are essential not only for success in school but also in life.

Choosing the right educational path for your child is one of the most important decisions you'll ever make as a parent. With so many different options available, it can be difficult to know where to begin. If you are looking for an educational option that will challenge your child academically while also teaching them essential life skills, then the classical Christian education model may be a good fit for your child.

Please be sure to speak with an educator who teaches the classical Christian education model and visit different schools in order to get all of your questions answered. If you are in the Kailua area, we would love to speak with you and even give you a free tour of our beautiful campus! Get started today by visiting our website at https://www.tcskailua.net/ to get in touch with us.