Private Elementary School in Orange County, VA
The elementary school years are when your child builds the academic, social, and spiritual foundation that will shape the rest of their education. If you are exploring private Christian elementary school options near Orange County, Fredericksburg Christian School (FCS) offers the kind of Christ-centered, hands-on education that sets children up for lifelong success.
FCS is located in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and is accessible to families throughout the surrounding region. Accredited by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and the Virginia Council for Private Education, FCS serves students from preschool through 12th grade. The elementary program provides a strong academic foundation built on Biblical values, small class sizes, and a partnership with parents.
A Culture Built on Shared Values
At FCS, the elementary experience begins with a shared set of values between home and school. The school’s mission is grounded in a Biblical worldview that sets the tone for campus culture. Teachers focus on the heart as well as the head, helping children develop strong moral compasses before they move on to middle school.
Parent partnerships are central to everything FCS does. Strong partnerships are founded on strong communication, and the school makes it a priority for parents to feel like part of the community. Teachers regularly communicate with families, and parents are invited to volunteer on campus through a variety of events.
“We are grateful that we were able to join the FCS family this year! A Christ-centered education was very important for our family and we can see how much the teachers and staff are pouring into our kids everyday!” -Courtney and Jordan Shaffer
Elementary Academics: Building a Strong Foundation
FCS elementary students work in small groups, which allows them to be appropriately challenged. This approach gives teachers the ability to address gaps and provide enrichment based on each child’s needs. Core subjects include reading, writing, math, history, science, and Bible, with reading also incorporated into every subject across the curriculum.
Biblically Based Curriculum
In the Lower School, FCS uses a variety of Biblically based curriculum programs including Abeka, Purposeful Design, Shirley English, and Bob Jones. Each year, the FCS Curriculum team evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of these programs as well as the needs of the students, then develops an in-house curriculum that combines multiple resources for the highest quality educational program possible.
What Your Child Will Experience
Here is a look at the key components of the FCS elementary academic experience:
- Small class sizes averaging 18 to 20 students, ensuring individualized attention and mentoring from teachers
- Bible instruction woven into every grade level, teaching Christian values and leadership not just during chapel but across the school day
- Core academic subjects in reading, writing, math, history, and science, with a focus on building strong foundational skills
- Enrichment programs including art, music, computer, gym, and library as part of the weekly schedule
- Weekly library visits beginning in kindergarten, with access to more than 25,000 pre-screened books across two campus libraries
- Service opportunities such as Operation Christmas Child, food drives, and fundraisers to support missions
Technology in the Elementary Classroom
FCS students learn about technology safety starting in kindergarten, focusing on key areas of responsible digital use. Every classroom from Pre-K through 5th grade features a SMART Board, and kindergarten through 5th grade students each have an iPad integrated with classroom technology for interactive learning.
At the elementary level, weekly computer classes cover:
- Technology basics and responsible use
- Internet navigation and safety skills
- Word processing and presentation skills
- Digital citizenship
- Research skills taught collaboratively with computer and library teachers
All iPads are used for academic purposes and are locked down to prevent access to content not pre-approved by the FCS Technology Department.
Kindergarten: Where It All Begins
For families considering kindergarten, FCS offers both half-day and extended-day programs, giving parents the flexibility to choose what works best for their child and their schedule.
Kindergarten Program Options
- Half-day program: Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- Extended care options: Available from 12:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. or 12:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Each kindergarten class has one lead teacher and one assistant teacher, allowing for a 10:1 student-to-teacher ratio. This means individualized attention and daily opportunities for direct instruction. Kindergartners explore phonics, handwriting, reading, math, science, and social studies through hands-on activities, and FCS teachers set positive examples daily by mirroring Christian values inside and outside the classroom.
Children must turn five by September 30th of the school year to be considered for enrollment in the kindergarten program.
Preschool Programs: PK3 and PK4
FCS also offers preschool programs for children ages three and four, anchored in Christ and designed to encourage exploration and skill development. Programs are available in both half-day and full-day formats with flexible scheduling options.
Scheduling Flexibility
- PK3: Available 2 days per week (Tuesday/Thursday), 3 days per week (Monday/Wednesday/Friday), or 5 days per week
- PK4: Available 3 days per week (Monday/Wednesday/Friday) or 5 days per week
- Before care: 6:30 a.m. to 8:15 a.m.
- After school care: 3:15 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Extended Care is available for PK3 through 8th grade from 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., though space is limited.
Spiritual Development Across Every Grade
Spiritual life at FCS is not confined to a single class period. It is woven into all that the school does, shaping learning, conversations, and the way students and teachers treat one another. Elementary students gather for age-appropriate weekly chapel services where they participate in worship through singing, prayer, and Scripture.
Beyond chapel, students actively practice the lessons they are learning through service projects. Even the youngest learners begin to understand what it means to serve others and live out their faith.
A Safe Campus for Young Learners
FCS believes that children learn best when they feel safe. The school has made significant investments in campus security, including:
- Full-time safety and security officers present on campus every school day
- Background checks on all volunteers and staff
- Regular emergency drills to prepare students and staff
- Separated Lower and Upper School campuses so younger children learn in an environment designed for their developmental needs
The Lower School building is open from 7:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m., with the school day running from 8:15 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. The half-day program for Pre-K and kindergarten runs from 8:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Tuition and Affordability
FCS is committed to making a Christ-centered education accessible. The school offers a Variable Tuition program that allows families to apply for a tuition rate based on their financial circumstances. An online tuition calculator is available to help estimate costs, and the FCS tuition page provides a full overview of rates and payment options. FCS wants to ensure that finances are not the only factor standing between your child and a quality education.
How to Get Started
The admissions process at FCS is designed to help families get to know the school and determine whether it is the right fit. Here is how to begin:
- Download the Parent Information Packet for an overview of the program and school culture.
- Schedule a campus visit. Private tours are available year-round. Visit FCS to experience the school firsthand.
- Apply online. Applications for new students open in October. Complete the application in full to avoid processing delays.
- Complete the family interview and student testing. The admissions team will contact you to schedule both.
- Receive your enrollment decision. The administrative team reviews each applicant to ensure FCS is the right fit for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
What grade levels does the FCS elementary program cover?
FCS offers preschool programs for ages three and four, a kindergarten program with half-day and extended-day options, and an elementary program through 5th grade. The school continues through 12th grade, providing continuity as your child grows.
What is the student-to-teacher ratio in kindergarten?
Each kindergarten class has one lead teacher and one assistant teacher, resulting in a 10:1 student-to-teacher ratio. Elementary class sizes average 18 to 20 students.
Does FCS offer financial assistance for tuition?
Yes. FCS offers a Variable Tuition program designed to make enrollment accessible at different income levels. An online tuition calculator is also available, and the admissions team can walk you through your options.
How does FCS integrate faith into the elementary curriculum?
Bible instruction is part of every grade level, and Christian values are reinforced across all subjects. Students participate in weekly chapel, service projects, and a campus culture that is grounded in a Biblical worldview.
Give Your Child a Strong Start
The elementary years matter. They shape the way your child thinks, learns, and relates to the world around them. At Fredericksburg Christian School, those years are spent in a community that values academic excellence, spiritual growth, and the kind of personal attention that only small class sizes can provide. If you are looking for a private elementary school accessible from Orange County, we would love to show you what FCS has to offer. Contact our admissions team to learn more or schedule your visit today.