Preschool at Great Rock Christian Academy: Where Little Learners Begin
The preschool years are foundational -- and at GRCA, we take that seriously. Our Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 programs give children a joyful, structured start where academic readiness and faith formation grow side by side. From the very first day, your child is part of a school community that will walk with them all the way through graduation.
Program Overview
GRCA's preschool welcomes students who are 3 or 4 years old by September 1st and potty trained (fully independent). Classes run Monday through Friday within the regular school calendar. We do not have or offer any part time enrollment at this time.
- Pre-K3: 3 years old by September 1st, potty trained (fully independent)
- Pre-K4: 4 years old by September 1st, potty trained (fully independent)
- Class hours: 8:15 AM - 2:15 PM (early release Wednesdays: 8:15 AM - 1:30 PM)
- Extended care: Free, 7:00 AM - 8:15 AM and 2:15 PM - 4:00 PM daily
- Free breakfast provided each morning
- Enrollment options: Full time private school. We do not have or offer any part time enrollment at this time.
What Students Learn
GRCA uses the Abeka curriculum across all grade levels, including preschool -- a structured, academically rigorous program designed specifically for Christian schools.
Language Arts and Early Literacy
Students develop phonological awareness through songs, finger plays, and hands-on activities. Pre-K3 students explore letter sounds and build vocabulary through 99 topical studies. Pre-K4 students extend into structured letter recognition and early phonics, preparing them for kindergarten reading instruction.
Numbers and Math Concepts
Children build number sense through manipulatives, puzzles, and guided games. Pre-K3 students count to 25 and explore number concepts 1-10. Pre-K4 students advance to counting through 30 and concepts through 15, laying the groundwork for kindergarten math.
Bible and Character Development
Students hear Old and New Testament stories, begin memorizing scripture, and participate in daily chapel alongside the broader school community. Character qualities like kindness, listening, and respect are woven intentionally throughout every day -- not added on at the end.
Music, Art, and Motor Skills
Songs reinforce letters, numbers, and Bible content while developing coordination and musical memory. Art activities build fine motor skills and creative confidence through painting, gluing, coloring, and three-dimensional projects.
Faith From the Very Beginning
At GRCA, faith is not a separate subject -- it is the lens through which all learning happens. Prayer opens and closes the day. Bible stories are part of circle time. Even the youngest students attend daily chapel with the full school community.
For families of faith, this matters. Children spend their first years of school in an environment that reflects the values of home -- hearing the same names, the same stories, the same truths. That consistency is a gift.
Also Looking for Childcare?
GRCA Preschool is an academic program that follows the school calendar. For families who also need flexible care for infants or toddlers (ages 6 months to 5 years), Great Rock Church offers a separate GRC Childcare program with daily and weekly registration. The two programs are operated independently and serve different needs -- but together, they reflect the range of support the Great Rock community offers young families.
Enrollment and Next Steps
Financial aid is available on a first-come, first-served basis through a third-party application. GRCA's tuition is significantly lower than most comparable private Christian schools on the North Shore -- and financial aid makes it even more accessible.
To apply to GRCA Pre-K:
- Complete the interest form on the Admissions page
- Submit a completed application and application fee
Spaces are small and fill early. Families interested in the upcoming school year are encouraged to start the process as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
GRCA Preschool is an academic program using the Abeka curriculum, designed to prepare children ages 3 and 4 for kindergarten. GRC Childcare is a church-operated program for infants and toddlers (6 months to 5 years) with flexible daily and weekly registration. The two programs are separate and serve different purposes, though families may find both useful.
Yes. Potty training is required for both Pre-K3 and Pre-K4. Students must be fully independent.
GRCA uses the Abeka curriculum across all grades, including preschool. In Pre-K, it covers phonics readiness, number concepts, Bible instruction, music, and arts and crafts -- sequenced to build kindergarten readiness developmentally.
Class hours are 8:15 AM - 2:15 PM, with early release on Wednesdays at 1:30 PM. Free extended care runs from 7:00 AM - 8:15 AM and 2:15 PM - 4:00 PM at no additional cost.
Yes, through a third-party application on a first-come, first-served basis. Families anticipating need are encouraged to apply early.
Yes. All GRCA students, including preschoolers, participate in daily chapel -- age-appropriately, alongside the full school community.
Families may enroll as full private school students or through the homeschool co-op option. Both follow the same classroom program.
GRCA is recognized by the Town of Danvers as a private school and operates as a ministry of Great Rock Church. The school is working toward accreditation as a longer-term goal. Many families find that GRCA's values alignment, small community, and affordable tuition are the right fit regardless of accreditation status.
Start with the interest form on the Admissions page. The admissions office will guide you through the application process. Scheduling a tour first is always a good idea -- it is the best way to see the school and get your questions answered in person.
Ready to Get Started?
Spaces are small and fill early. Families interested in the upcoming school year are encouraged to start the process as soon as possible.