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GRADES 3-4

NICKLAUS SCHRAG

At the heart of our teaching philosophy is the belief that every child is a unique and capable learner. We embrace individuality and strive to adapt our teaching methods to cater to each student’s distinct needs. We encourage critical thinking, problem-solving, and hands-on experiences to ensure that learning is not just about memorizing facts but understanding the “why” and “how.”
Challenges are not obstacles; they are opportunities for growth. Our students are taught to persevere, learn from their mistakes, and adapt to new situations. We want them to be resilient, confident learners who embrace the learning process. ~Nicklaus

Writing in Cursive

You can hear the tick tock of the pencils on paper. Cursive writing is not just a beautiful art form; it’s a valuable skill that enhances fine motor control and cognitive development. We’re dedicated to teaching cursive writing, enabling our students to express themselves with grace and precision. In an increasingly digital world, this timeless skill sets them apart. We just started learning and practicing cursive letters and handwriting. So, send us some handwritten cursive letters to practice our cursive reading and writing skills!

Scientific Method

Our class has also been working with the Scientific method to find ways to answer some questions. The last two weeks of September were spent studying camouflage in nature. We asked the question: Does camouflage work? We researched different types of camouflage, and why animals might need camouflage. We then set up an experiment where we used green straws to represent green caterpillars, and we used red straws to represent red caterpillars. We used green paper shreds to represent grass. We timed ourselves to see how long it took to find green straws in green grass. Then we timed ourselves to see how long it took to find red straws in green grass. The results even surprised us. However, when we changed our experiment around, our results mirrored our hypothesis. All of this time we are spending with the scientific method and working on experiments is helping us to get ready for our science fair in November.

Ready for the Challenge

We know that academic success is more than just subject knowledge. It’s about developing a growth mindset that thrives on challenges. Our students are encouraged to tackle grammar, reading, and mathematics with enthusiasm. We provide a nurturing and stimulating environment, ensuring they not only meet but exceed their learning goals. We are really getting excited to start our science fair projects. There is lots of work yet to do, but the 3rd and 4th grades are ready for the challenge.

KARLA RUPP

We have worked hard to create a classroom dynamic where students know that each person is unique and so are their learning styles.

NICKLAUS SCHRAG

We are committed to preparing our students for a future filled with intellectual curiosity, strong communication skills, and the ability to tackle any learning challenge that comes their way

AMBER BRADLEY

Developing student skills in a collaborative classroom where students share responsibility in their education

Dr. Brad Anderson

Head of School

Brad (Braden) grew up in Wichita, Kansas, part of a family of educators. He earned a BA in Political Science/History from Wichita State, at which point he worked as a quality assurance manager for aviation-related companies in Wichita. Discerning a call to academics, he then completed a MA in Political Science from the University of Kansas. After reading Anabaptist theology and political thought, Brad shifted his focus to theology, earning a MA and PhD from Marquette University, with a focus on Theology and Society. He went on to teach courses at the college level in theology, ethics, and politics, as well as work in academic administration, non-profit program direction, and private consultancy. He is the author of Chosen Nation: Scripture, Theopolitics, and the Project of National Identity, as well as journal articles on Christian nationalism and biblical interpretation. Brad came to FA in 2017, teaching high school Bible and Social Studies, and serving as Assistant Head of School and then Academic Dean. He began as Head of School in July, 2022. Brad is married to Elizabeth, with whom he shares three children: Benjamin (FA ’21), Madelyn, and Katelyn. He enjoys piano and arranging music, reading fiction and history, watching movies, playing strategy games, and conversation and laughter with friends. The Andersons are active at Salem Mennonite Church, southeast of Freeman.