Many parents ask how Challenger’s kindergarten program is different. The answer is simple: our kindergarten is a critical bridge between preschool and elementary school where foundational skills become habits, confidence continues to be built through achievement, and students continue developing independence and discipline.
For students who have benefited from a structured preschool experience, kindergarten should be a year of momentum. At Challenger, we build on the fundamentals by providing an accelerated, proven curriculum that fosters intellectual growth and personal responsibility.
Early Reading Mastery—With early, consistent practice and focus on comprehension, Challenger kindergarten students quickly become fluent readers. Using our effective phonics-based instruction as the foundation, students advance beyond mere decoding to comprehensive reading, giving them access to learning in all subjects.
Math That Develops Thinkers—Our kindergarteners develop mathematical reasoning: an understanding of number relationships, logical patterns, and problem-solving strategies that form the basis of advanced mathematics and clear thinking.
Independence and Personal Responsibility—Students take ownership of their work and choices. By managing their daily assignments, participating in effective routines, and setting and achieving personal academic goals, these young students develop discipline. They learn that success is earned through effort and diligence and not an entitlement—a mindset that sets them apart as they progress through their academic journey.
A Culture of Excellence and Achievement—At Challenger, every moment in the classroom is purposeful. Our teachers create an environment that encourages intellectual curiosity and provides fun, engaging challenges with like-minded peers who motivate one another. Our students thrive in an environment deliberately structured for excellence, discipline, and success.
Lessons are carefully designed to challenge students intellectually, encouraging them to actively participate in advanced problem-solving exercises that promote independence and critical thinking. This helps students build self-worth as they consistently recognize and take pride in their accomplishments.
Parents who have children in Challenger’s preschool have already made a wise decision by investing in a strong early education. Now is the time to not only maintain the momentum but accelerate your child’s learning.
When families are deeply committed to the same rigorous values at home that students learn at school, children receive dual support that builds character, perseverance and a clear understanding of true achievement. Many families realize too late that a less-focused setting risks their child’s confidence and discipline.
Challenger kindergarten is the ideal next step for parents who want more than just another year of school—it’s for those who seek for their child a foundation of skills, confidence, and independence that will propel their child toward lifelong success.
Students are gearing up for the Speech Festival that will take place this month.
Speech Festival is a wonderful opportunity for students to exhibit their mastery of the art of oratory. Students are learning how to effectively convey their ideas to others—a skill which will continue to serve them well throughout life.
Kindergarten students choose poetry selections learned in class, and students in first through fourth grade recite poems of their choice. Fifth graders choose speeches or speech excerpts from literature or history, and middle schoolers write and present their original speeches.
Challenger School will be administering the Iowa Assessments standardized tests to students in the coming weeks.
Our students have a long history of performing very well on nationally standardized tests. We are confident that this year’s results will be impressive, too.
Tips for Test Days
Below is a list of things your child can do to be more focused and alert on test days.
In anticipation of this month’s American History Tour, parents of eighth-grade students who will be touring are encouraged to attend an informational meeting on March 13 that will detail important travel instructions. This year, students will be visiting historic sites in Boston, Philadelphia, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.
In concurrence with St. Patrick’s Day, Challenger preschool students will learn about Irish folklore during the month of March.
Midterm grades for students in first through eighth grade will be available to view in PowerSchool later this month.
There are no midterm notices provided for preschool or kindergarten students, but there will be progress updates at the end of the semester.
Please make arrangements for your child’s care during Spring Break. Region dates are:
For those who need it for their tax returns, Challenger’s tax ID is 47-1405971.