Founded in 1986 • Serving Lithonia families since 1993
(770) 484-0999
Kindergarten-Ready Curriculum
Structured early literacy meets hands-on exploration
Our proven A-Beka + HighScope approach gives children the academic and social-emotional skills they need to thrive in kindergarten and beyond.
Two Proven Approaches, One Powerful Outcome
We combine the best of structured, teacher-led instruction (Abeka) with child-initiated, hands-on learning (HighScope) to create a balanced, research-backed curriculum.
Abeka Curriculum
Structured Academic Foundation
Abeka provides systematic, phonics-based early literacy instruction that has successfully taught children to read for over 40 years. Our approach is traditional, structured, and proven.
Key Features:
-
Systematic phonics instruction (letter sounds, blending, decoding)
-
Daily handwriting practice (uppercase/lowercase letters
-
Cross-subject integration (reading, math, science, social studies)
-
Spiral review for concept mastery
-
Character-building stories and values
Learn more: Abeka Preschool Curriculum →
HighScope Approach
Active, Hands-On Learning
HighScope is a research-validated approach where children actively explore, experiment, and problem-solve through hands-on activities. Children learn by doing, not just listening.
Key Features:
-
Learning centers with manipulatives and open-ended materials
-
Small-group, teacher-guided instruction
-
Assessment through observation and documentation
-
​Problem-solving and critical thinking emphasis
Official Listing: HighScope listed on our DECAL profile →
What Your Child Will Master Before Kindergarten
By the time your child leaves GLA for kindergarten, they will have developed these essential skills:
Literacy Skills
-
Recognize all 26 uppercase and lowercase letters
-
Know letter sounds and simple phonics rules
-
Blend sounds to read simple CVC words (cat, dog, run)
-
Write their first name independently
-
Identify rhyming words and beginning sounds
-
Follow along with print during read-alouds
Fine Motor Skills
-
Hold pencil with proper grip
-
Write uppercase and lowercase letters
-
Cut with scissors along a line
-
Draw recognizable shapes and people
-
String beads, use manipulatives
-
Complete puzzles and building activities
Math Skills
-
Count to 30+ (many reach 100)
-
Recognize numbers 1–20
-
Understand one-to-one correspondence
-
Sort, classify, and create patterns
-
Identify basic shapes and colors
-
Simple addition and subtraction within 10
Social-Emotional Skills
-
Follow multi-step directions independently
-
Take turns and share with peers
-
Resolve conflicts with words, not hitting
-
Sit quietly and listen during group time
-
Ask for help when needed
-
Show empathy and kindness to others
How We Integrate Both Approaches Daily
A typical preschool day at GLA blends structured lessons with child-initiated exploration:
Morning Circle Time (Abeka Structure)
Teacher-led instruction in calendar, weather, letter of the day, phonics song, and counting activities. This structured time builds foundational skills in a predictable routine.
Learning Centers (HighScope Active Learning)
Children choose from literacy, math, science, art, dramatic play, and block centers. They plan what they'll do, explore independently or with peers, and review what they learned.
Small-Group Instruction (Abeka + HighScope)
Teachers work with small groups (4–6 children) on targeted skills like letter writing, phonics blending, or math concepts. This allows for differentiated instruction based on each child's needs.
Outdoor Play & Enrichment (Whole-Child Development)
Outdoor play, music, movement, art, and STEM activities balance the day. Children build gross motor skills, creativity, and social connections through play.