At Central Christian School, our Elementary program (Kindergarten through Grade 4) provides a child-centered, nurturing environment where each student's academic, social, emotional, and spiritual development is valued. We intentionally design learning experiences that are hands-on, developmentally appropriate, and rooted in Christian faith.
Our team continually shapes and develops the program to meet the unique needs of our students and school community. We believe every child can grow, thrive, and discover joy in learning.
CCS Distinctives
Academic Excellence
We are committed to helping every child reach their full potential.
- MAP Growth assessments are used to monitor student progress and guide instruction.
- We are implementing the Science of Reading to strengthen foundational literacy.
- Read Across America Week celebrates reading and motivates students to grow as readers.
- Vertical articulation ensures alignment of standards across grades.
- All students use Sadlier Math, creating a consistent and spiral approach to math instruction.
- FUNdations is used in Grades K–2 to promote cohesive and structured literacy development.
- Intervention and literacy tutoring provide added support where needed.
- Spanish instruction begins in Kindergarten, building early language exposure.
- Art, physical education, vocal music, strings, library, keyboarding, and SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) also provide opportunities for your child to explore their passions and interests.
- Mini-term opportunities offer unique experiences outside of the traditional classroom.
Faith Formation
Faith is central to everything we do.
- Daily devotions and chapel services ground our school day in Scripture.
- Students participate in Bible memory and use the Journeys Bible curriculum.
- Teachers pray regularly for each student.
- We celebrate Pastor Appreciation Day, inviting pastors to spend time with their students.
Fine Arts
Creativity is celebrated and nurtured at Central.
- Students begin violin or cello lessons in 1st grade, continuing through Grade 4.
- Our annual Christmas Program features acting by 4th grade and singing by K–4 students.
- A Spring Concert gives students a chance to showcase their musical growth.
- Fine arts opportunities are interwoven on special days, such as School Day Out and Grandfriends' Day.
- Mini-term offers artistic enrichment, such as pottery painting, studying great artists, and crafting.
Service Opportunities
We teach students the joy of serving others.
- Community Service Day (CSD) allows families to serve their communities together.
- Each year, elementary students participate in a Christmas Giving Project, either local or international.
- On Grandfriends' Day, students complete service projects like making fleece blankets or packing meals.
Multi-age Relationships
Relationships across age groups build community and mentorship.
- Reading Buddies pair Kindergarteners with 4th graders for shared reading time.
- Operations Connection (OPCO) Junior provides an intentional opportunity where 4-6th grade students pair up with K-3rd grade students, giving younger students role models and older students opportunities to grow as leaders. This program works to foster trust, friendship, and a culture where all students are known, valued, and inspired to grow.
- Multi-age groupings for events like Heart of Central, Field Trips, and Leap Day promote leadership and unity.
Learn more about Central's Distinctives here.
Considering a Christ-centered school for your child?
Many families find that a campus visit is the best way to see if Central Christian School is the right fit for their child. We'd love to meet you and answer any questions you may have!
Ms. Maibach, Kindergarten
Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education and Special Education - University of Akron
Master's degree in Literacy - The American College of Education
What inspired you to become a teacher?
I have always wanted to work with kids and I decided to become a teacher when I became a volleyball coach. I loved working with middle school and high school kids in an athletic setting but knew that I wanted to work with younger students in the classroom setting. Kindergarten has always been my dream and I love doing life with groups of five year olds.
What is the most important item in your classroom?
My Keurig and my class pictures from each year.
I love teaching at Central because…
from the moment I walked through the door it felt like home. The staff, students, families, and overall community are unmatched in their love, support, laughter, and joy and I have enjoyed growing alongside all of them.
What wisdom do you want to pass on to your students?
It is my vision that every student who passes through the door of my classroom leaves knowing that they were loved, supported, and believed in. Dream big, for you never know where the paths of life will take you. “The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." -Eleanor Roosevelt
Favorite children's book or author.
Eric Carle - The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Brown Bear, Brown Bear What Do You See
Mrs. Boyd, First Grade
Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education (Pre-K - 3) and Intervention Specialist (K-12) from Bluffton University
What inspired you to become a teacher?
I have always loved working with young children. I grew up watching my mom teach and loved helping in her second grade classroom. In high school I would spend my study halls down in the elementary, helping and watching many of the teachers. I have been, and continue to be, inspired by the idea of investing in the lives of future generations.
How many years have you been teaching and teaching at Central?
15 years total, 4 at Central
What is the most important item in your classroom?
My document camera! I use it all times of the day to model tasks and work right along with my first graders. The students also love sharing their own work under the document camera so everyone can see it on the "big screen".
I love teaching at Central because…
…of the community. I'm so thankful for the relationships I have built with colleagues, students, and parents.
What wisdom do you hope to pass along to your students?
I hope my students know that they are valued and that they can do hard things! We talk often about working as a team and that God has created each of us with special gifts and abilities that we can contribute so that the class as a whole can be successful. We love to challenge ourselves in first grade, both independently and collectively, and it's so fun to watch each student grow and develop throughout the school year.
Favorite children's book or author.
Elephant and Piggie books by Mo Willems
Ms. Zehr, Second Grade
Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education (PreK-6) and Music Education (PreK-12) - Eastern Mennonite University
Master's degree in K-8 Mathematics Specialist from James Madison University
What inspired you to become a teacher?
I love children and want to help them learn. They are such curious beings and it's fun to see their wonder at the world. Helping them ask questions and seek answers is really fun.
What is the most important item in your classroom?
My community circle carpet. We start each day with community circle where students greet each other and have time to share. It's where we do our devotions and take time to pray. Then, throughout the day, we use the carpet as our story-telling space. I love reading books aloud to my class and sharing my love of reading.
I love teaching at Central because…
…I am able to teach the whole child - academically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually.
What wisdom do you hope to pass along to your students?
I hope my students become life-long learners. I am still curious about things and want to learn new skills. My hobbies have changed over the years thanks to sparks of new interest.
Favorite children's book or author.
For picture books, I love Robert Munsch.
For chapter books, I love Roald Dahl. He is so creative and funny.
Mrs. Hofstetter, Third Grade
Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education - Bluffton College
Masters in Literacy - The University of Akron
What inspired you to become a teacher?
I was inspired to be a teacher because I had great teachers growing up and enjoy working with children. My mom was also a teacher.
How many years have you been teaching and teaching at Central?
22 years
What is the most important item in your classroom?
Giving students choice in their seating with alternative seating like exercise balls, wobble seats, stools, etc.
I love teaching at Central because…
we are a community that encourages and celebrates each other.
What wisdom do you hope to pass along to your students?
My wisdom is that they will be together throughout their experience at Central, and that they need to work as a team. I enjoy teaching the students to see improvements in each other and to work toward their own improvements and goals.
Favorite children's book or author.
My favorite children’s books are The Boxcar Children series.
Mrs. Woods, Fourth Grade
Bachelor's Degree - Bluffton University
Master's Degree - The University of Akron
How many years have you been teaching at Central?
20 years
What is the most important item in your classroom?
My 30 Second Dance Party button.
I love teaching at Central because…
I love my students and co-workers. No matter what challenges arise, my students bring joy and make me smile every day. My co-workers are more than colleagues—they are a supportive extension of my family, always there to uplift and encourage. Being part of such a caring community makes Central a truly special place to work.
What wisdom do you want to pass on to your students?
You are enough just as you are. God created you with a unique purpose, and your gifts are meant to be discovered and embraced. Trust in who you are, and let your strengths shine.
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"Central has been a wonderful fit for our family, and I believe the emphasis on relational discipleship and teaching children holistically makes Central a great choice for anyone.”
-Andrew (Class of '07) and Lydia Simms, parents of Moira (grade 3) and Marshall (Kindergarten)
Explore Central Christian School Today!
If you're searching for a Christ-centered elementary school in Wayne County, OH, we invite you to schedule a visit with the admissions team. We offer private tours where you'll see the engaging elementary spaces, meet caring teachers, and see the campus facilities where your child will thrive.
Questions? Please reach out to Stacie Tschiegg, Enrollment Director at 330-857-7311 or StacieT@CentralChristianSchool.org.