Emmanuel Lutheran School offers a distinctive kindergarten experience that nurtures the whole child—intellectually, socially, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Our Christ-centered program provides a strong academic foundation within a caring community, where each child is known, valued, and encouraged to develop their God-given potential.
1. Program Overview: Developing the Whole Child
At Emmanuel Lutheran School, we believe kindergarten should be a joyful introduction to formal learning that capitalizes on children's natural curiosity and enthusiasm. Our comprehensive kindergarten program balances academic skill development with hands-on exploration, intentional play, and faith integration.
Christ-Centered Approach
Faith is woven throughout our kindergarten day, helping children understand that they are precious children of God with unique gifts and purpose. Our approach includes:
- Daily Bible stories and discussions
- Regular prayer throughout the day
- Weekly chapel services with the school community
- Christian character development
- Service learning opportunities
- Biblical perspectives integrated across the curriculum
This faith foundation provides a meaningful context for learning and helps children develop strong character and values.
Academic Excellence
Emmanuel's kindergarten curriculum exceeds North Carolina standards while remaining developmentally appropriate. Our balanced literacy and mathematics approaches provide strong foundations for future learning:
Language Arts
- Systematic phonics instruction
- Phonological awareness development
- Handwriting instruction
- Guided reading in small groups
- Rich literature experiences
- Beginning writing skills
- Vocabulary development
- Listening and speaking skills
Mathematics
- Number sense and operations
- Counting and cardinality
- Geometry and spatial relationships
- Measurement concepts
- Pattern recognition and extension
- Problem-solving strategies
- Mathematical reasoning
- Data collection and analysis
Science
- Hands-on investigations
- Nature exploration
- Life, physical, and earth sciences
- Scientific method introduction
- STEAM projects and challenges
- Environmental stewardship
Social Studies
- Community helpers and roles
- Family structures and traditions
- Basic geography concepts
- Cultural awareness
- Citizenship and responsibility
- Historical figures and celebrations
STEAM Focus
As Western North Carolina's first Christian parochial STEAM school, Emmanuel integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics throughout the kindergarten experience:
- Weekly dedicated STEAM class
- Classroom STEAM centers and projects
- Problem-solving challenges
- Design thinking processes
- Creative expression through various media
- Technology introduction with iPads and educational applications
- Engineering design experiences
- Connections between faith and scientific discovery
Our STEAM approach develops critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, and communication skills while fostering a love for exploration and discovery.
Social-Emotional Development
We recognize the importance of social-emotional skills for kindergarten success and lifelong learning. Our program intentionally develops:
- Self-awareness and emotional management
- Relationship skills and friendship building
- Conflict resolution strategies
- Empathy and kindness
- Self-regulation and impulse control
- Independence and responsibility
- Growth mindset and resilience
- Confidence and positive self-concept
These skills are integrated throughout the day through modeling, direct instruction, literature, role-playing, and guided practice in real situations.
2. Our Kindergarten Learning Environment
Emmanuel's kindergarten classroom is thoughtfully designed to support young learners' needs while fostering independence, collaboration, and exploration.
Physical Space
Our kindergarten classroom features:
- Flexible seating options for different learning styles
- Clearly defined learning centers
- Cozy reading corner with quality children's literature
- Faith center with Bible stories and prayer resources
- Hands-on manipulatives for mathematics and literacy
- Art and creative expression materials
- Building and construction materials
- Dramatic play area
- Science exploration center
- Technology stations with educational applications
- Outdoor learning space and playground
The classroom environment balances structure with flexibility, providing clear expectations while accommodating kindergartners' need for movement and varied learning experiences.
Class Size and Staffing
Emmanuel maintains small class sizes in kindergarten, with a maximum of 20 students per class. This allows our teachers to:
- Truly know each child's strengths, needs, and interests
- Provide differentiated instruction for various learning levels
- Build meaningful relationships with students and families
- Identify and address learning challenges early
- Offer appropriate challenges for advanced learners
- Manage classroom dynamics effectively
- Give individual attention when needed
Our kindergarten teaching team includes a lead teacher with a minimum of a Bachelor's degree in education and experience in early childhood education.
3. Kindergarten Curriculum Highlights
Emmanuel's kindergarten curriculum integrates academic excellence with Christian values, providing a comprehensive foundation for future learning.
Faith Development
Our Bible curriculum for kindergarten helps children:
- Understand God's love for them through Jesus
- Learn key Bible stories from both Old and New Testaments
- Begin to grasp basic Christian doctrine at an age-appropriate level
- Develop prayer habits and simple worship responses
- Connect Biblical principles to daily life
- Grow in Christian character and values
- Experience God's love through classroom community
Literacy Development
Our balanced literacy approach includes:
Phonics and Phonological Awareness
- Systematic introduction of letter sounds and relationships
- Blending and segmenting practice
- Rhyming and word play
- Beginning word families
- Sight word recognition
Reading
- Print concepts and book handling
- Comprehension strategies
- Retelling and sequencing
- Picture clues and context
- Genre introduction
- Author studies
- Reading for pleasure and information
Writing
- Handwriting development
- Drawing and dictation
- Inventive spelling progressing to conventional spelling
- Simple sentence construction
- Personal narrative writing
- Informational writing
- Response to literature
Oral Language
- Vocabulary development
- Listening comprehension
- Speaking in complete sentences
- Asking and answering questions
- Participating in discussions
- Show and tell presentations
- Dramatic play and role-playing
Mathematics Foundations
Our mathematics curriculum builds conceptual understanding and fluency through:
Number Sense
- Counting to 100
- One-to-one correspondence
- Number recognition and writing
- Comparing quantities
- Understanding place value (ones and tens)
- Addition and subtraction introduction
- Problem-solving with manipulatives and visual models
Geometry and Measurement
- Shape recognition and properties
- Positional vocabulary
- Sorting and classifying
- Comparison language (bigger/smaller, longer/shorter)
- Non-standard measurement
- Time concepts (days, weeks, months, seasons)
- Calendar skills
Data and Patterns
- Graphing and data collection
- Pattern recognition and creation
- Sorting and classifying
- Logical reasoning
- Mathematical games
Science Exploration
Our kindergarten science curriculum encourages wonder and discovery through:
Life Science
- Plants and their needs
- Animals and habitats
- Human body basics
- Life cycles
- Living vs. non-living things
Physical Science
- Properties of matter
- Simple machines
- Force and motion
- Magnetism
- Light and shadow
Earth Science
- Weather patterns and seasons
- Day and night
- Natural resources
- Earth care and stewardship
- Rock and soil exploration
Social Studies Connections
Our social studies curriculum helps kindergartners understand their place in the world:
Self and Family
- Personal identity and uniqueness
- Family structures and roles
- Cultural diversity
- Community helpers
- Rules and responsibilities
Geography Basics
- Maps and globes
- Land and water forms
- School and neighborhood geography
- Places around the world
Citizenship and Character
- Classroom community
- Rules and consequences
- Democratic processes (voting, taking turns)
- Conflict resolution
- Service learning
Our STEAM approach in kindergarten includes:
Science Connections
- Scientific inquiry process
- Observation skills
- Prediction and hypothesis formation
- Experimental design
- Data collection and representation
Technology Introduction
- Computer basics and mouse skills
- Educational applications on iPads
- Digital storytelling
- Virtual field trips
- Appropriate technology use
Engineering Design Process
- Problem identification
- Solution brainstorming
- Design and creation
- Testing and evaluation
- Redesign and improvement
Arts Integration
- Visual arts (drawing, painting, sculpture)
- Music and movement
- Dramatic play and storytelling
- Creative expression
- Aesthetic appreciation
Mathematics Application
- Real-world problem solving
- Measurement in projects
- Pattern creation
- Spatial reasoning
- Mathematical communication
4. Assessment and Progress Monitoring
At Emmanuel Lutheran School, we believe assessment should inform instruction and provide meaningful feedback about each child's growth. Our kindergarten assessment approach includes:
Ongoing Formative Assessment
- Observation and anecdotal records
- Performance tasks
- Work samples
- Learning checklists
- Individual conferences
- Small group assessment
- Digital documentation
Trimester Benchmark Assessments
- Literacy skills assessment
- Mathematics concepts evaluation
- Developmental checklists
- Social-emotional growth indicators
- Faith knowledge appropriate to age
Progress Reporting
- Trimester report cards with standards-based evaluation
- Parent-teacher conferences (fall and spring)
- Digital portfolio of student work
- Regular communication about student progress
- End-of-year developmental summary
This comprehensive assessment approach helps us track each child's growth, identify areas for additional support or challenge, and communicate effectively with families about their child's development.
The Asheville Kindergarten Landscape
Emmanuel Lutheran School's kindergarten program stands out in the Asheville educational landscape for several reasons:
Local Context
Asheville and Buncombe County offer various kindergarten options:
- Public school kindergarten programs (Asheville City and Buncombe County districts)
- Charter school kindergartens
- Other private and parochial schools
- Homeschool kindergarten programs
Within this diverse landscape, Emmanuel Lutheran School provides a distinctive option with our:
- Christ-centered approach
- STEAM integration
- Small class sizes
- Balanced academic program
- Rich specialist offerings (art, music, PE, STEAM, library)
- Focus on whole-child development
Geographic Accessibility
Located in West Asheville at 51 Wilburn Place, Emmanuel Lutheran School is accessible to families from:
- West Asheville neighborhoods
- Downtown Asheville (10-minute drive)
- South Asheville (15-minute drive)
- North Asheville (15-minute drive)
- Candler (15-minute drive)
- Weaverville (20-minute drive)
- Black Mountain (25-minute drive)
Our central location makes us a convenient option for families throughout the Asheville area.
Distinctive Approach
When compared to other kindergarten programs in the area, Emmanuel Lutheran School offers:
- Faith integration not available in public schools
- Stronger academic focus than some play-based programs
- More balanced approach than highly academic programs
- Specialist instruction in multiple areas
- Continuation through 8th grade in the same school community
- Financial aid options including NC Opportunity Scholarship eligibility
5. Preparing for the Kindergarten Transition
Starting kindergarten is a significant milestone that can bring both excitement and anxiety for children and parents. Emmanuel Lutheran School provides several resources to support this transition:
Kindergarten Readiness Assessment
As part of our admissions process, we conduct a developmentally appropriate kindergarten readiness assessment that:
- Helps determine if your child is ready for kindergarten
- Identifies strengths and areas for growth
- Provides valuable information to teachers for planning
- Informs placement decisions
- Gives parents insight into their child's development
This assessment takes place in a friendly, comfortable environment and is conducted like a series of games and activities rather than a formal "test."
Kindergarten Roundup Event
Our annual Kindergarten Roundup (scheduled for April 19, 2025) provides:
- Classroom orientation for incoming students
- Introduction to kindergarten teachers
- Sample kindergarten activities
- Parent information session
- Tour of kindergarten facilities
- Opportunity to meet other incoming families
This event helps ease anxiety and build excitement about starting kindergarten.
Summer Preparation Resources
Emmanuel provides enrolled families with:
- Summer learning activities to maintain and build skills
- Kindergarten readiness checklist
- Children's book recommendations about starting school
- Tips for establishing school routines
- Suggestions for addressing common kindergarten concerns
- School supply information and uniform guidelines
These resources help families prepare practically and emotionally for the kindergarten transition.
Orientation and Staggered Entry
Our kindergarten program begins with:
- Back-to-school orientation before classes begin
- Meet-the-teacher opportunity to see the classroom
- Staggered entry during the first days of school (smaller groups for better acclimation)
- Gradual introduction to full-day schedule and routines
- Early communication between teachers and parents
This approach helps children adjust gradually to the kindergarten environment, building confidence and reducing anxiety.
6. Frequently Asked Questions About Emmanuel's Kindergarten
What are the age requirements for kindergarten?
Children must be 5 years old by August 31 to enroll in kindergarten for the upcoming school year. Children who turn 5 between September 1 and October 15 may be considered for early admission based on demonstrated readiness and our assessment results.
Is kindergarten a full-day program?
Yes, Emmanuel's kindergarten is a full-day program, running from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM, Monday through Friday. This allows for a balanced schedule with adequate time for both academic learning and developmental activities.
Do kindergartners wear uniforms?
Yes, kindergartners follow the same standardized dress code as other elementary students. This includes:
- Purple or white polo shirts (with or without school logo)
- Khaki or navy pants, shorts, skirts, or jumpers
- Solid colored socks and closed-toe shoes
- Specified outerwear options
Detailed uniform guidelines are provided upon enrollment.
Is before and after-school care available?
After-school care is available from 3:00-5:30 PM for an additional fee. The program includes snack, homework support (as appropriate for kindergarten), outdoor play, and structured activities. The monthly rate is $275, or families can use drop-in care at $10 per hour.
What lunch options are available?
Kindergartners may bring lunch from home or purchase lunch through our lunch program. Hot lunch is available for $3.50 per day, with special options available on Wednesdays and Fridays from local restaurants. Snack is included in
Do kindergartners wear uniforms?
Yes, kindergartners follow the same standardized dress code as other elementary students. This includes:
- Purple or white polo shirts (with or without school logo)
- Khaki or navy pants, shorts, skirts, or jumpers
- Solid colored socks and closed-toe shoes
- Specified outerwear options
Detailed uniform guidelines are provided upon enrollment.
Is before and after-school care available?
After-school care is available from 3:00-5:30 PM for an additional fee. The program includes snack, homework support (as appropriate for kindergarten), outdoor play, and structured activities. The monthly rate is $275, or families can use drop-in care at $10 per hour.
What lunch options are available?
Kindergartners may bring lunch from home or purchase lunch through our lunch program. Hot lunch is available for $3.50 per day, with special options available on Wednesdays and Fridays from local restaurants. Snack is included in kindergarten tuition.
How do you handle kindergarten nap/rest time?
Our kindergarten schedule includes a quiet rest and reading time after lunch. While we don't have traditional "nap time," we recognize that young children benefit from a period of calm after the stimulation of the morning. Children are encouraged to rest, look at books, or engage in quiet individual activities during this time.
Do you offer kindergarten screenings before enrollment?
Yes, our kindergarten readiness assessment is part of the admission process and helps us understand your child's developmental readiness. This friendly, low-pressure screening assesses various developmental domains and helps inform placement decisions.
How do you approach reading instruction in kindergarten?
Emmanuel uses a balanced literacy approach that includes systematic phonics instruction, guided reading in small groups, shared reading experiences, quality literature, and independent reading practice. We recognize that children develop reading skills at different rates and differentiate instruction accordingly.
7. Specialized Learning in Kindergarten
Beyond core academic areas, Emmanuel's kindergarten includes specialized learning experiences that enrich the educational program:
Art Education
Kindergartners attend weekly art classes with our art specialist, exploring:
- Various artistic media and techniques
- Elements of art (line, shape, color, texture)
- Artists and art styles from diverse cultures
- Creative expression of ideas and feelings
- Integration of faith and creativity
In addition to specialized art instruction, creative expression is integrated throughout the kindergarten day in classroom projects and activities.
Music and Movement
Our kindergarten music program develops:
- Vocal skills through singing and chanting
- Rhythm concepts through movement and instruments
- Music appreciation across various styles
- Basic music literacy and notation
- Faith expression through sacred music
- Performance opportunities in programs and chapel
Kindergartners participate in school programs throughout the year, building confidence in public speaking and performance.
Physical Education and Motor Development
Physical education in kindergarten focuses on:
- Fundamental movement skills
- Gross motor development
- Fine motor coordination
- Body awareness and spatial concepts
- Cooperative games and good sportsmanship
- Healthy habits and fitness concepts
- Character development through play and sport
Regular outdoor recess complements structured physical education, providing essential opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and creative play.
Technology Integration
Kindergartners are introduced to technology in developmentally appropriate ways:
- Basic computer and tablet skills
- Educational applications that reinforce learning
- Digital storytelling and creation
- Virtual field trips and explorations
- Appropriate technology use and digital citizenship
Technology is viewed as a tool for learning rather than an end in itself, integrated purposefully to enhance the curriculum.
Conclusion: The Emmanuel Lutheran Kindergarten Advantage
Emmanuel Lutheran School's kindergarten program provides a distinctive educational experience that:
We invite your family to discover the Emmanuel Lutheran difference and consider whether our kindergarten program might be the right fit for your child.
For more information or to schedule a visit, contact us at (828) 281-8182 or contact us online. We look forward to welcoming you to our school community!
