Elementary
In the summer of 2020, the parents of our TK students were facing the reality of their kids starting their Elementary School journey at a computer via "distanced learning". They approached our director and asked about the possibility of a Kindergarten class at LifeBridge. After praying over this big decision, we felt God was leading us to a great new chapter for our school. After an amazing first year those same parents came back and asked "How about 1st grade?" and the rest is history! We now offer Kindergarten through 4th grade, and plan to add 5th grade in 2026. Our Elementary students enjoy all the same high academic standards of our local public schools along with the small class sizes, faith-centered focus, and warm, loving atmosphere that LifeBridge is known for.
Curriculum
Reading: Into Reading by HMH- This curriculum is based on the latest in literacy research to ensure every student learns to read and write with confidence. The various options for differentiation contribute to student growth and success. The built in assessment system provides ongoing monitoring to ensure students have mastered the skills to standards and are prepared to advance.
Writing: The Units of Study in Writing by Heinemann- This curriculum draws on the latest research on oral language development, writing instruction, grammar, vocabulary, knowledge generation, feedback, executive function, and growth mindset, as well as on aspects of the science of reading research. Each writing session includes a daily grammar extension that explicitly supports language skills.
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​Math: Into Math by HMH- The Into Math curriculum helps students build perseverance in problem solving and apply knowledge to higher level mathematics and beyond. The targeted differentiation strategies for every lesson allow teachers to provide adequate support for every student at the right time.
Science: Inspire by McGraw Hill- Driven by phenomena, the research-based 5E model prompts students to engage with and explore natural phenomena in the world around them. As they delve into an array of informational texts, supportive resources, and interactive activities, students explain their understanding of a phenomenon and elaborate by applying their knowledge to new contexts. Finally, students revisit and evaluate the phenomenon at hand so teachers can gauge progress and assess understanding.
Social Studies: Impact by McGraw Hill- IMPACT was built on the belief that inquiry is at the heart of social studies- inspiring young learners to ask questions, investigate, and build a rich collage of knowledge and ideas. By incorporating the inquiry-based C3 Framework, thought-provoking Essential Questions, and rich texts that showcase multiple perspectives and democratic principles, IMPACT provides the high-quality social studies instruction students need to grow into active, responsible citizens.
Bible: BJU Press- BJU Press’s elementary Bible curriculum is constructed around 147 foundational Bible Truths. These Bible Truths are studied in a systematic way, moving through the big story of the Old and New Testaments and leading students to appreciate God’s grand design for mankind and creation. Elementary Bible helps to bridge the gap between head knowledge and heart knowledge by guiding students as they study, interpret, and apply a biblical worldview.
Benchmark Assessments and Progress Monitoring: mClass and MAPS- MAP® Growth™ is the most trusted and innovative assessment for measuring achievement and growth in K–12 math, reading, language usage, and science. It provides teachers with accurate, actionable evidence to help inform instructional strategies regardless of how far students are above or below grade level. It also connects to the largest set of supplemental instructional providers, giving educators flexibility in curriculum choices.
Reading Interventions: We use Word Study for phonics, spelling and vocabulary instruction, and Build Up Phonics by Benchmark Education Company.
Meet Our Teachers
Mrs. Tran
Kindergarten
I graduated from California State University Sacramento with my Bachelor’s Degree in Child Development and have been teaching for 6 years. Kindergarten is my favorite grade to teach, because this is the year my students will learn to read! It is so special to see a child light up when they learn a new word and are able to read a book on their own. When I am not teaching I love to spend time with my family.
Mrs. Perez
3rd/4th Grade
I have been working with children for 16 years and have been here at LifeBridge since 2018. I have an AA in Child Development, and a BA in Human Development. I’ve always loved teaching and doing so at LifeBridge, where we get to share the love of Jesus, is a true joy. Outside of work I enjoy watching movies with my husband, cooking, gardening, crocheting, and bird watching.
Mrs. Kunz
1st Grade
I have 6 years of formal teaching experience and this will be my 3rd year at LifeBridge Academy. I earned my Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education at Grand Canyon University. I am passionate about teaching my students phonics and reading skills, how to think critically, communicate effectively, and how to grow their friendship with Jesus. Outside of the classroom I coach Varsity Cheer at Ramona High School, attend and serve in my church, and spend time with family and friends.
Miss Bustillo
Math, Specials &
After School Program
I am very fortunate to have started my teaching journey here at LifeBridge. I have been here for 5 years and am very excited to continue to grow with this school and the elementary program. I recently graduated from CSU San Marcos with a BA in Liberal Studies with an emphasis in Human Development.
Miss Bessent
2nd Grade
I attended San Diego State University and earned a degree in Liberal Arts for Elementary Education. During my time at SDSU, I served as Vice President in
the College of Education. I am also certified in computer science for K-12 students. My goal is to foster a love for learning, to create a supportive classroom environment, and encourage students to ask questions and seek biblical wisdom in decision-making. When I am not teaching, I am reading, cuddling my cats, or spending quality time with family.
Miss Kinch
Teacher's Aide, Specials
& After School Program
This is my third year at LifeBridge assisting in Elementary classes and with the after school program. I love to see my relationships with the students and staff grow each year. I am in my junior year of college at San Diego Miramar College in the Child Development program.