Here at FRCS, we seek to be a kingdom-minded school in which every student can access and fully understand the mission that Jesus set before us. We recognize that each student is uniquely and wonderfully made in His image (Psalm 139:14) and that we all bring a diverse set of skills and talents to the kingdom to make the world a better place. Scripture paints the picture of a beautiful and capable child, and it is our mission to ensure that every student at FRCS knows and believes this truth.
Learning Services at FRCS
In Learning Services, we see the whole student. Students who may feel unseen or face academic challenges have a place here at FRCS where they can freely ask questions, share their unique ideas, and thrive.
Our Learning Services program supports students kindergarten through senior high to help them better access the curriculum. The program is run by a team of dedicated educators with diverse backgrounds and experiences in supporting the whole child—academically, personally, and relationally. Many of our team members have experience in other school communities and have witnessed firsthand the difference FRCS makes. While other private schools of similar size to FRCS empower students to learn, students are sometimes left to navigate challenges on their own due to a lack of resources. At FRCS, our Learning Specialists and staff come alongside students and their families, teaching students to embrace their learning, take ownership, and build bridges from where they are to where they want to be.
Learning Services looks different from kindergarten through 12th grade. Keep reading to learn more about what our Learning Specialists, students, and families have to say about our programs.
Kindergarten Learning Services
written by Tina Cook
In Kindergarten Learning Services, we love learning to read and write! Our kindergarteners explore letters, letter sounds, blending, and early reading through a multi-sensory program called Orton-Gillingham (OG). This program incorporates movement, writing in the sand, and collaborative activities to make learning engaging and effective.
Just ask some of the kindergarteners what they love about their OG time! You will hear them say things like:
- “I love learning to read.”
- “I like drawing in the sand.”
- “Learning sounds is a lot of fun!”
It has been an amazing experience watching our kindergarten students grow in their understanding of sounds, words, sentences, and storytelling. Thank you for the opportunity to work with your wonderful children!
Elementary Learning Services
written by Heather Taylor and Tricia Ratts
As our team works with students, the following quote hangs on our wall as a reminder to our team and students of how God uniquely created us all to learn:
“Every student can learn, just not on the same day or in the same way.” – George Evans
Just as Jesus provides a solid spiritual foundation for our lives, our goal is to help create a solid academic foundation for our students by filling in any gaps they may have in their learning.
One of our proudest accomplishments is our new WIN (What-I-Need) time. This structured daily period ensures that all learners receive targeted support without being pulled from core instruction. During WIN time, students receive specialized instruction alongside peers with similar needs in reading and math. This is time devoted to meeting the needs of all learners, whether this means enrichment in our Explore program, visiting Learning Services for targeted OG-based reading or math instruction, small-group focused lessons in classrooms, or even one-on-one time with educational assistants and/or outside therapists. WIN time is very flexible and always changing based on the latest data or teacher recommendations. Students know that they will always get time daily for what they need to be successful and grow in their learning. At some point, most students in the elementary will come to Learning Services, whether during WIN Time, to use our calming space (Prince of Peace room), to take a test in a quiet space, or for some other reason.
When we asked students about what they love about Elementary Learning Services, they shared:
- “I always learn something new because there are less people”
- “I like that I can learn how to read”
- “WIN time is good because we don’t get pulled out in the middle of class and it’s with people who need the same thing.”
- “I like the games we play, but get to learn at the same time. It’s fun!”
- “You give me new tools to help me focus and learn, like drawing boards, wiggle chairs or headphones.”
The Elementary Learning Services team recognizes how unique it is for a private Christian school to have a program like this. We are grateful for the generous support that allows us to meet the needs of all students, helping them become all that God has created them to be.
Junior and Senior High Learning Services
written by Heather Hapke and Kaley Sferra
As students transition to junior and senior high school, Learning Services continues to provide individualized support. Our goal is to help students develop skills for lifelong learning, including organization, self-advocacy, and problem-solving.
We work closely with junior and senior high students on their assignments, writing, math, and study strategies for quizzes and tests. For those who need accommodations, we provide extended time on assessments to allow them to fully demonstrate what they know. As coursework becomes more complex, we empower students to build up their tools and strategies, helping them comprehend content at a deeper level and take ownership of their learning journey.
The partnership between Learning Services, students, and families is invaluable. Many families have shared their appreciation:
- “Our experience with Learning Services has been phenomenal. Our student has received exceptional, personalized support that helps develop their gifts and build confidence in tackling challenging coursework.”
- “The caring staff is patient and communicates consistently with parents and teachers. Our student has been seen for who they are and who they can become beyond FRCS.”
- “Learning Services has provided so many blessings to our family. The staff provides Christ-filled wisdom, knowledge, and support that we parents can rely on. Learning Services offers a strong link between teachers, students, and parents, creating a solid path to success. They set high but reachable expectations while showing grace, understanding, and empathy.”
- “I love Learning Services because they give me the tools and opportunities to be my best self and grow in my knowledge. Both of the teachers help me in any way possible, and their room is a safe place to work and rest when needed.”
- “I genuinely love that I can always walk into the Learning Services space and feel heard. The staff is ready to meet students where they are and find solutions to unique challenges.”
At FRCS, we strive to create an environment where every student can flourish. We are so grateful for the opportunity to partner with families in this mission.
Thank you for your continued support and trust in FRCS Learning Services!
~ The Learning Services Team at FRCS
