Drama
Our K-5 drama class blends creativity with faith-based learning, using theater to explore storytelling, character development, and communication skills. Aligned with Common Core, Illinois State Standards, and Lutheran School Ministry Standards, students engage in hands-on activities that promote literacy, social-emotional growth, and teamwork. Lessons incorporate Gospel themes, allowing students to reflect on biblical teachings while developing confidence in public speaking and collaboration. Children learn to express themselves creatively through skits, role-play, and group projects while applying Christian values. This class nurtures intellectual, social, and spiritual growth in a fun, supportive environment. To learn more about specific programs and the dramatic arts across campuses, visit our Theatre Page.
STEM ("PLTW")
Our K-5 Project Lead the Way class offers an innovative, hands-on approach to learning science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), while integrating Christian values. Aligned with Common Core, Illinois State Standards, and Next Generation Science Standards, students tackle real-world problems through engaging projects that foster critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. Each lesson is rooted in Gospel principles, encouraging students to reflect on God's design and purpose in the world around them. As they explore concepts like engineering, coding, and problem-solving, students also learn how their talents can be used to serve others. By connecting faith and STEM, this class nurtures intellectual, spiritual, and social growth. Our program empowers students to see themselves as innovators, grounded in Christ’s teachings. To learn more about the program, visit the PLTW Page.
Art
In our elementary art program, we integrate creativity and faith. Students study the elements of art, various styles, and worldwide art while learning a range of techniques through drawing, painting, and other media. Emphasis is placed on problem-solving and creative thinking, encouraging students to develop independence. We highlight that they are creative children of God. To explore the full art program across campuses, visit the Visual Arts Page.
PE
Academy students are offered Physical Education for 40 minutes, two days a week for grades K-5 and one day a week for the Pre-K classes. Emphasis is placed on learning basic locomotor and movement skills, while instilling a love for physical activity in the early childhood years and reinforced and practiced during the upper-elementary years. Our curriculum strives to promote an active and healthy lifestyle, motor skill development, and improve cognitive performance through exercise. A variety of exercises, games, individual and team sports are performed to develop physical fitness and learn
skills. To learn more about where the exploration of athletics may lead your student, check out the RLS Athletics Page.
Music
PreK-5th grade students explore both vocal and instrumental music. Designed to inspire confidence and creativity, music classes provide students with a variety of performance skills while instilling an interest and empathy for others as they explore music from around the world. To explore where these interests may lead, check out the Fine Arts Page.
Spanish
Students begin learning the basics of Spanish in PreK. In this weekly class, students learn how to communicate in basic social situations using the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Library
Each week all elementary students come to the library. During library time, the librarian and students read stories, discuss authors, study book genres, discuss the parts of a good story, and most importantly get excited about reading. We have over 10,000 titles and are continuously adding new books that peak the students’ interests.
Orchestra (3rd-5th)
Orchestra is an elective subject, run by Mrs. Viel, which offers an opportunity for personal growth and enrichment through the study of a stringed instrument. This program is structured to provide young people with motivation, positive attitudes, and commitment to success in an atmosphere of discovery and encouragement. Students do not have to be “talented” to succeed in this program, and anyone who is willing to learn and put time into it will find success. The orchestra program emphasizes dedication, a good work ethic, perseverance, cooperation, music appreciation, and the enjoyment of playing an instrument. Students who participate will have the opportunity to perform a number of times during the year, including RLE Chapels and performances at RLHS. To learn more about the robust orchestra program at RLS, visit the Orchestra Program Page.
Band (3rd-5th)
Beginning in 3rd grade, students have the opportunity to take lessons on band instruments where we encourage and equip musicians to develop their God-given talents and abilities for His glory and for service to God and their neighbors. All band students meet once a week to learn note-reading, ensemble skills, and to increase their technical skills on their instruments. Students who participate will have the opportunity to perform a number of times during the year with performances at RLHS. It’s a great way to make new friends, learn to play an instrument, and make music together! To learn more about the robust orchestra program at RLS, visit the Band Program Page.