Elementary Program | Columbia, MD
Our elementary program embraces diverse learners and their unique learning styles, helping young learners thrive in Columbia, MD. As a parent, you know how important it is for your child to feel safe, nurtured, and encouraged. The dedicated teachers at Columbia Academy, one of the premier elementary schools in Columbia, MD, work hard to create that kind of positive learning environment where your child can grow, explore, and play.
Elementary Program Enrollment
Ages Served
Students in grades 1-5 (ages 6-11)
Schedule Options
Full-day program with extended care available
Hours
8:30 AM to 3:30 PM with before and after care from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Is Potty Training Required?
Yes, all elementary education program students must be fully potty trained
Curriculum Focus
Strong academic foundation in core subjects with STEAM integration, Spanish language study, and character education through inclusive classrooms
Daily Routine
Structured academic instruction, special education classes, outdoor play, hands-on experiences, and character building activities
Classroom Experience
Small class sizes averaging 16:1 student-to-teacher ratio with classroom management practices that support diverse learners
About Our Elementary Education Program
At Columbia Academy, we approach elementary education from a whole-child perspective for diverse learners in grades 1 through 5. We challenge students academically by tapping into their natural curiosity and we support them by embracing their unique learning style. We develop and strengthen their self-esteem through a curriculum that builds character and teaches students how to exemplify many virtues in the classroom, at home, and in their daily lives.
Our elementary program incorporates experiential, hands-on experiences, and problem-solving activities, ensuring students stay engaged throughout their education. Through projects and open dialogue, students make connections between what they learn in the classroom and how it applies to life around them. A growth mindset remains central to our program, and we provide a safe and supportive environment for students to make mistakes, and to see those mistakes as opportunities for growth.
From Grade 1 to Grade 5: Development Support for Every Stage
Our elementary education program serves diverse learners as they build foundational skills and knowledge across all subject areas. Students develop strong academic skills while learning to think critically, solve problems creatively, and work collaboratively with peers.
Student Teaching and Classroom Management We recognize that each student brings unique needs, strengths, and learning styles to the classroom. Our effective classroom management practices allow teachers to meet each child where they stand academically, socially, and emotionally, ensuring inclusive classrooms where all learners can succeed.
Strong Academic Foundation in Core Subjects Core subjects come to life through hands-on experiences and active learning. For language arts, students explore culturally relevant, ethnically diverse works. Teachers involve students in age-appropriate critical text analysis and comprehension, transitioning students from passively listening to instructions to actively asking questions and solving meaningful problems.
Physical Education and Special Education Support As part of our comprehensive elementary education program, students receive physical education instruction that builds fitness, teamwork, and motor skills. Our teachers work collaboratively to support diverse learners, including those who may need special education accommodations, ensuring every student can participate fully in classroom activities.
Elementary Program Enrollment and Registration
Families considering elementary education program enrollment can visit our campus to see how our approach supports diverse learners while building foundational skills and knowledge. Our program prepares students for middle school success through rigorous academics and character development.
Why Families Trust Columbia Academy in Columbia
For over 30 years, families throughout Columbia have chosen our elementary program because we provide excellent elementary education with small class sizes and individualized attention. Parents appreciate our open door policy and regular communication through newsletters, emails, and parent conferences. Check our calendar of events to see upcoming open houses and elementary education program information sessions.
A Private School Serving Columbia, MD
Columbia Academy serves families throughout the Columbia area with convenient locations:
Discover how our approach can make a lasting difference in your child's life. Contact us today to learn more, schedule a tour, and become part of our vibrant school community.
Strong Academic Foundation Through Elementary Education
At the elementary level, foundational skills get developed in core subjects that prepare students for middle school and beyond:
Core Subjects:
- Math: Students learn the why behind the how through conceptual understanding as well as procedural practice
- Science: Labs combine virtual and hands-on experiences, teaching students to inquire, think, predict, analyze, and apply
- Social Studies: Students explore history, geography, and civic responsibility through engaging projects and problem-solving activities
- Language Arts: Reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills develop through diverse literature and meaningful assignments
Special Classes Include:
- Art: Creative expression through various media and techniques
- Music: Vocal and instrumental instruction that builds appreciation for the arts
- Physical Education: Fitness, sports skills, and teamwork development for all learners
- Spanish: Language acquisition through immersive, age-appropriate instruction
- Technology: Digital citizenship skills and computer literacy
Learning Through Experience and Character Development
Experiential learning remains at the heart of our learning philosophy for young learners. Students get challenged not only through projects, hands-on experiences, and assessments, but also through experiences gained during numerous field trips and many opportunities to exemplify character building in their academic day.
Character education plays a big part in our school culture. Each month, teachers and students focus on a specific virtue: citizenship, gratitude, mindfulness, patience, respect, diligence, kindness and empathy, honesty and fairness. These virtues get practiced daily, and student behavior gets recognized and rewarded by teachers.
Safe Learning Spaces for Diverse Learners We understand that each student brings unique individual strengths, challenges, and abilities, and that each student learns differently from the next. Our whole-child approach to elementary education celebrates that uniqueness by ensuring that children not only feel safe in their classrooms and school, but also valued and respected for their own unique gifts and abilities.
Columbia Academy Parent Reviews
"Our daughters have grown and thrived at Columbia Academy. The combination of a rigorous curriculum, character education, small class sizes and extracurricular opportunities for enrichment create an academic environment that remains both intellectually challenging and supportive of every student. Just as important, the culture of the school models an inclusive family-oriented community."
- Josh K., JD, PhD
Other Programs Available at Our Locations
Our infant and toddler program provides the earliest foundation for learning through responsive care and developmentally appropriate activities.
The preschool program prepares children for kindergarten through play-based learning and social-emotional development.
The transitional kindergarten program offers an extra year of preparation for children who would benefit from additional time before entering kindergarten.
Our kindergarten program provides a nurturing environment where children build essential academic and social skills for elementary school success.
Our middle school program prepares students for high school success through rigorous academics and leadership development that builds on their elementary school foundation.
Before and after care provides safe, supervised care for school-age children outside regular school hours.
Our summer camp offers fun, educational activities throughout the summer months for elementary school students.
Digital citizenship education helps elementary students learn responsible technology use and online safety.
Other Programs Available at Our Locations
Our infant and toddler program provides the earliest foundation for learning through responsive care and developmentally appropriate activities.
The preschool program prepares children for kindergarten through play-based learning and social-emotional development.
The transitional kindergarten program offers an extra year of preparation for children who would benefit from additional time before entering kindergarten.
Our kindergarten program provides a nurturing environment where children build essential academic and social skills for elementary school success.
Our middle school program prepares students for high school success through rigorous academics and leadership development that builds on their elementary school foundation.
Before and after care provides safe, supervised care for school-age children outside regular school hours.
Our summer camp offers fun, educational activities throughout the summer months for elementary school students.
Digital citizenship education helps elementary students learn responsible technology use and online safety.
Testimonials
R.T.
September 2, 2025
The higher standards of educational instruction.
A.S.
June 10, 2025
I know 5th and 6th grades are middle school, but it seems like so much just stopped moving up from Elementary school. I know part of this is normal transition, but the lack of consistent comms, having writing in their agendas be optional, fewer class celebrations, etc. didn’t help my student’s relationship to school. It’s been too much, too fast. I’d also like to see ELA do more reading and novel study. Reading is so important, now more than ever.
S.W.
December 3, 2024
The diversity among teachers and students was a plus. The curriculum being taught exceeded my expectations for my daughter who attended from pre-k to 4th grade. It was small and structured with a very friendly learning atmosphere. My daughter really enjoyed her experience there and had we not relocated, she would have stayed through middle school completion.
FAQs
Our elementary education program serves students in grades 1-5, typically ages 6-11. Students build foundational skills and knowledge across all subject areas while developing critical thinking skills and character through hands-on experiences.
Schedule a Tour!
Discover how our approach can make a lasting difference in your child's life. Contact us today to learn more, schedule a tour, and become part of our vibrant school community. Our elementary program provides diverse learners with the hands-on experiences and foundational skills they need to develop knowledge and prepare for middle school success.
Testimonials
Kahdijah D.
October 1, 2025
Being a single mom with a speech delayed child is challenging. Everyday when I drop my daughter off her teachers greet her and welcome her in a way that works best for her. They take extra time to comfort her and it gives me ease of mind while l at work that’s she’s well taking care of. Seeing her run to her teacher in the morning. We all don’t have a village but I feel like we’ve found ours in her teachers. I appreciate all of they hard work and support.
Kristi F.
August 20, 2025
I love our Teachers! They do such a good job keeping the atmosphere fun and have new and engaging activities each day. The best part is, is that when I leave, I know my son is safe and is in the hands of people that love and care about him. If I could give a higher score, I would!! I love this team of ladies!
A.D.
June 1, 2025
My son loves the Daycare and the teacher is there. This is the first time he’s ever spoken out loud and is happy to go to Daycare.
C.B.
May 6, 2025
The teachers are amazing, supportive, loving and caring
L.J.
April 8, 2025
The environment is tailored to learning which allows my daughter to freely explore and develop at her own pace.
Robertha G.
April 8, 2025
I kids been attending Step by Step for a weeks now and they love it there.
Annie C.
March 11, 2025
Friendly, respectful, caring, and resourceful
Lissa F.
February 18, 2025
The director and assistant director really listen to parents and are attentive to needs. I also am so grateful for their flexibility as my children are in the foster care system so they can come and go. I love having a center I can rely on. The teachers care and do their best and I see my kids thrive in the environment.
Jennifer J.
January 21, 2025
The teachers are very personable and they love the kiddos, you can tell. I love the app they use to keep you in the loop on what’s going on. They also occasionally send pics of what your child is doing in the app too.
H.K.
January 14, 2025
The school has great teachers and take immediate actions to protect our babies. The teachers are kind, they listen to our concerns, and want to help your child succeed outside of the classroom.