Our Pre-K program blends play, exploration, and traditional instruction in a structured, nurturing environment designed to build kindergarten readiness. Through hands-on activities and daily routines, students develop early literacy, number sense, fine motor skills, and social confidence. We focus on:

• Letter recognition and early phonemic awareness
• Foundational math and fine motor development
• A mix of structured lessons and playful discovery
• Social-emotional growth and classroom readiness

By the end of Pre-K, students are eager and equipped to thrive in kindergarten – academically and personally.

These are the “learning to read” years, when students build the essential skills that support all future learning. Through whole-group lessons, small-group support, and hands-on activities, students grow in fluency, confidence, and independence. We emphasize:

• Systematic phonics and reading fluency development 
• Foundational math concepts with real-world connections
• Daily writing, spelling,  and vocabulary instruction
• Exposure to science, social studies, and creative thinking
• Routines that build responsibility and stamina

Students leave these grades with a strong academic foundation—and a growing sense of themselves as capable learners.

By second grade, students begin the shift from “learning to read” to reading to learn. These years focus on building deeper comprehension, stronger problem-solving, and the ability to work more independently …while still staying grounded in a supportive, collaborative classroom. Classrooms emphasize:

• Deeper reading across subjects – fiction, nonfiction, and content-rich texts
• Multi-step problem solving and math fluency
• Purposeful writing across genres
• Project-based tasks that encourage curiosity and connection
• Increasing personal responsibility and organization

This is a key stage where students begin to see themselves as learners …and start discovering what they’re capable of.

Upper elementary students begin to take real ownership of their education. With guidance and structure, they learn to manage their time, advocate for themselves, and think critically across disciplines.

We place emphasis on:

• Executive functioning and study habits
• Goal-setting and reflection
• Student voice and leadership
• High-level content exploration

Grades 6, 7, and 8 at Clintonville Academy are different. While students elsewhere often recall these years as difficult, ours look back on them as a highlight. Small class sizes and exceptional teaching allow for true academic challenge, deep mentorship, and meaningful growth.

Our students graduate with:

• Strong academic preparation for high school
• Self-advocacy, leadership, and resilience
• A sense of identity and confidence in who they are
• Lifelong friendships and a love of learning

All Clintonville students participate in a full range of specials that enrich their academic journey:

• Art
• Physical Education
• Music
• Spanish
• FabLab (STEM & Innovation)
• Instrumental Music (Grades 3–8)
• Library (Pre-K–Grade 4)