CURRICULUM DETAILS - PRE-K THROUGH GRADE 4
This summer, there will be no Summer Sunday school class for the first- to third-graders. However, beginning on June 18, the Christian Education Commission will make available Children's Worship Packets for use during the 10 a.m. worship service. These packets will contain materials that will help young readers engage in the weekly worship service by providing ways for them to fully participate in the order of service, as well as providing appropriate, quiet entertainment. The packets will be available in the Narthex and outside the Church Library. Instructions will be included. Childcare for children younger than first-grade will continue to be provided.

The 46 members of our teaching staff teach on a rotating basis September-June each year. We are grateful to God for these wonderful teachers. This year's curriculum "Seasons of the Spirit" uses the ecumenically created Revised Common Lectionary to draw on the wisdom of many denominations in several countries. Recognizing that the senses play an important role in drawing us deeper into the biblical story and the experience of worship, materials explore the meaning and mystery in the Bible through music, visual art, movement, memorization, literature, poetry and drama. Bible based session materials follow the rhythms of the church year. Because it is written fresh each year, it offers the most current Christian perspective on the world, and the most up-to-date biblical scholarship. Seasons of the Spirit assumes that the context for learning extends beyond the church to the home and into the community and the world. It uses current and emerging technologies to encourage connections between faith and everyday life. At www.spiritseasons.com a web page can be found that connects faith to contemporary culture and media.

PRE-K'S, KINDERGARTEN
What young children understand best is right now! They can experience the sights, sounds, tastes, smells and textures associated with the current season of the church year without necessarily comprehending the flow of the seasons. Children ages 3-5 are wonderfully exuberant, active and curious. Joyful noise is an important part of this ministry through songs, play, Bible stories and conversations.

GRADES 1, 2 AND 3
Children in this age group are active, hands-on learners. It is important to employ a variety of teaching methods which provide opportunities for active participation and take into consideration their short attention spans and beginner-level reading and writing skills. Encounters with the Bible are through drama, storytelling, crafts and the arts.

GRADE 4
Curiosity and boundless energy are the natural gifts of most 4th graders. Hands-on exploration of Bible stories through arts, activities and imagination harness the enthusiasm of this age level. Encounters with the Bible through age-appropriate activities create connections to the whole church that will last a lifetime. Learning together, this group enjoys games, activities and arts experiences. Materials employ a variety of methods geared to a range of learning styles.

GRADE 5
A fun and interesting full-year overview of the Old Testament. "The Bible - The Story of God's Faithfulness: A Survey of the Old Testament", a PC(USA) curriculum, is used in this class.