A Private Elementary School for Kindergarten-5
Like any parent, you love seeing that light in your child’s eyes — the light that says they’re excited about being somewhere. The light that says they feel comfortable and confident.
That’s the light you want to see when they leave your car and head into school each day.
You’ll see that light, and their smile, when they are greeted by name at First Presbyterian Academy’s Lower School, where class sizes are small enough that every child is known and loved. Our nurturing, Christ-focused culture is woven into everything we do at our private elementary school in Greenville, SC, and it sets the stage for your child to thrive academically, spiritually, and socially.
Below, you’ll find a brief overview of what we offer, including:
Let’s get to know each other.
We would love to hear about your family and answer any questions you might have.
Reach out to Marian Martin, Director of Admissions, at (864) 678-5175 or submit an online inquiry.
Cultivate Your Child’s God-Given Potential
You want a school that equips your child academically and reinforces the values you teach at home. At First Presbyterian Academy’s Lower School, we create a foundation where faith, knowledge, and character come together.
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Faith
Through daily Bible lessons, students learn to model Christ in their actions — whether forgiving a friend on the playground or demonstrating kindness in the classroom. Weekly chapel services reinforce a biblical worldview, with themes like the Armor of God, helping students understand how to live out their faith. These intentional practices shape not only their understanding of the world but also the decisions they make each day.
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Knowledge
At FPA, lessons are designed to spark curiosity and make concepts come alive. For example, students participate in hands-on experiences like Immigration Day, where they board a “boat” to learn about history. Teachers prioritize a love of learning with daily read-alouds and open-ended comprehension questions. Small class sizes ensure each child receives the support they need to grow academically and tackle new challenges.
CHARACTER
Students practice Christ-like qualities such as respect and integrity in both structured and everyday moments. They earn stickers for traits like honesty and helpfulness, and they put these lessons into action by creating cards for veterans, resolving conflicts on the playground, and helping others carry supplies at the school. These experiences shape their character, preparing them to lead lives of compassion and purpose.
Discover Why Parents Send Their Children to FPA
“Our family has had the pleasure of attending First Presbyterian Academy preschool and lower school for the past 2.5 years. We have been thrilled with the quality of teachers and staff who have shown such kindness and patience to our kids — especially during some initial separation anxiety issues that we experienced. Our three children feel loved, safe, and happy at FPA, and we can't imagine attending anywhere else!”
— David and Sara Zielinski, parents
Inspire a Love for Learning
You want your child to receive an education that prepares them for success — not just in school, but in life. Our well-rounded, rigorous academic program lays the groundwork for college and beyond, while nurturing a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.
Teachers bring lessons to life through hands-on activities, creative projects, and engaging discussions, ensuring that every student is engaged and feels supported as they grow academically and spiritually.
At the elementary level, core skills are developed in:
- Bible
- Math
- Science
- English
- Spelling
- Social Studies
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Teaching that’s Personalized for Your Child
Our small class sizes allow for individualized instruction that meets each child's unique needs. Younger grades benefit from a 14:2 student-to-teacher ratio, ensuring plenty of one-on-one attention.
Teachers create a safe space where students are encouraged to take academic risks, ask questions, and learn from their mistakes in an environment rooted in mutual respect and love.
We also offer:
- IGNITE, a gifted program
- Excel, a learning differences program
Enrichment Opportunities
Students at FPA’s Lower School enjoy a wide variety of enrichment classes that go beyond core academics. Offerings in Spanish, STEM, music, art, and physical education give children opportunities to explore their creative and athletic talents. Additionally, events like Read Across America Day, book challenges, and opportunities to create their own stories with biblical themes foster a love for literature and storytelling. These enriching activities complement classroom learning while helping students build confidence and express their unique gifts.
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Community and Connection
A sense of community is central to the Lower School experience at FPA. Students — and families — are encouraged to form strong bonds. Parents are welcomed as partners in their child’s education, and they are involved in everything from volunteering as room parents to supporting events like Field Day and the Daddy-Daughter Dance. Families even formed a group called Compassion Crusaders, whose mission is to help people within the school who are facing difficulties. This collaborative approach helps everyone feel seen and valued.
Name: Brooke Thompson
Degree: Early Childhood Education
Teaching Experience: 15 years
“I currently teach 5th grade at First Presbyterian Academy. Each day in 5th grade brings moments to connect on deeper levels. We chat about what is going on in their personal lives, whose pet is sick, and how they are feeling about the tryouts for the new sport they started. We pray with them after a friend hurt them. These connections are evident when I cheer for them on the court in middle school, when I watch with pride during an upper school music production, when they come and serve as my teaching assistant in their junior year, and especially when I get to hug them after they walk the stage in their cap and gown on their graduation day.”
