Young 5s

Children enter school with a variety of experiences. We offer options to meet their individual needs. Younger learners who turn 5 between June 1 and December 1 may be a good fit for our Young 5s program. We are glad to accept the Michigan waiver for incoming Kindergarten and Young 5s students. This waiver allows students 5 years old on or before December 1st to apply for either grade level.

We created Young 5s to support younger learners who may benefit from a transitional year. Children adjust to the social and academic demands of school in a fun, hands-on environment. Young 5s provides ‘the gift of time’ so younger learners can succeed in Kindergarten. Teachers help them develop social, motor and academic skills necessary to prosper in a regular kindergarten class. Students who complete their first year in the Young 5s program will be promoted to the regular kindergarten program the following year.

If your child is ready for a more rigorous program, then Kindergarten may be the right choice. Kindergarten moves at a faster pace than Young 5s. Children should enter Kindergarten with the basic personal, social, emotional, motor and academic skills necessary to succeed in school. We know it can be a difficult decision, so we provide options to help you choose what’s best for your child.

Quick Links

When Can My Child Start Kindergarten?

If you're wondering when your child can start kindergarten, you're not alone! Every state has its own age requirements for starting kindergarten, and they vary.

NHA operates schools with kindergarten programs across nine states. Use our kindergarten calculator to help determine when your child can start kindergarten at an NHA school.

Kindergarten Calculator

Y5 Curriculum

English Language Arts Math Science Social Studies Specials

English Language Arts
Y5 Curriculum

English Language Arts

Children learn to identify and sound out letters and words. Retelling stories helps children learn to communicate clearly, and build active listening skills. Writing skills progress from letters to simple phonetic spellings.

Math
Y5 Curriculum

Math

Children learn basic number concepts like counting, number value, and basic addition using real objects. We study and identify shapes to build geometry skills. Students also learn the days of the week, and how to use money.

Science
Y5 Curriculum

Science

Building on their natural desire to explore, children learn how to identify and use their five senses. Using their senses, they observe and gather information, studying themes like plants and animals. As young scientists, they describe similarities and differences found in the natural world.

Social Studies
Y5 Curriculum

Social Studies

Learning about communities, students discover the roles and virtues of good citizenship. We practice these skills in the classroom and community.

Specials
Y5 Curriculum

Specials

Children study art, music, physical education and technology.

Grade-level Placement

Ensuring every scholar succeeds is our goal. Using a grade-level placement assessment helps us place your child in the grade that best meets their academic needs. After acceptance, Knapp Charter Academy staff will reach out to you to schedule a grade-level assessment.

Here are some tips to help your child have a positive assessment experience:

Take time to review the sample practice assessment with them.
Make sure they get a good night’s rest.
Lay out their clothes the night before.
Set an alarm to give yourself plenty of time to get ready.
Eat a meal or snack before the assessment.
Arrive early for the assessment so you’re not rushed.
Have fun!

We're More Than Academics

Strong hearts and minds impact the world in amazing ways. Virtues such as respect, perseverance, compassion, and courage are essential to what kids need to succeed and an essential part of what we teach. We make them part of every school day. This helps students learn the importance of making good decisions and doing the right thing in life. Moral Focus is so integrated into everything we do:

We created a curriculum specifically around Moral Focus.
We celebrate a “virtue of the month” every month.
Our students create a class contract where students agree how to treat their teacher and each other.
Students are recognized and celebrated for how they live out Moral Focus every day.

Parent

I love the emphasis on moral focus each month. Not only is my child receiving an education, but you are also teaching her qualities to be a good person.

Monthly Virtues

Wisdom

Use good judgment to make decisions

Respect

Treat others the way you want to be treated

Gratitude

Appreciate the kindness and generosity of others

Self-control

Manage your emotions and behavior to stay calm

Perseverance

Persist through difficulties until you reach your goal

Courage

Despite fear, do what you believe is right

Encouragement

Motivate others to have confidence in themselves

Compassion

Help and care for others during times of need

Integrity

Do what is right, honorable, and good

Confidence Leads to Student Excellence

Knapp Charter Academy gives every child the right challenges at the the right time. This allows us to create an enriched learning environment that raises both expectations and academic excellence. When this environment is combined with moral focus, parental partnership, and student responsibility, the end result is really just the beginning toward a lifetime of success.

Advanced Learning Program

We offer advanced learning opportunities for top-performing students who are ready to progress beyond grade level.

Apply Today

We can't wait to share in your child's journey! Apply online, in person or over the phone, and don't hesitate to ask questions along the way. We are here for you!

Apply Today!

Young 5s

Quick Links

When Can My Child Start Kindergarten?

Y5 Curriculum