Grammar School (K–6)

Foundational learning shaped by joyful excellence and a purposeful partnership between home and school.

The Grammar School Experience

Strong Foundations

Early learners delight in rhythm and repetition. TRCA builds on this natural momentum through phonics, guided practice, and rich stories that form attentive and joyful learners.

Learning in Community

Professional teachers guide full academy days with clear expectations, habit-forming routines, and small classes that help children thrive academically and relationally.

Supported Home Days

With teacher guidance, students learn to manage assignments and complete independent work on home days, growing in responsibility and confidence as they mature academically.

Formation of Heart and Character

Scripture, catechism, hymns, and daily habits form students in love of truth, goodness, and beauty — shaping the desires that guide lifelong learning.

What Students Learn

Language & Reading

Phonics instruction, early composition, rich children’s literature, narration, and poetry.

Mathematics

Spiral review, mastery of foundational skills, and early reasoning.

History & Geography

Stories, maps, and timelines taught from a biblical worldview and aligned with academy-wide themes.

Science & Nature Study

Hands-on exploration that cultivates observation, curiosity, and awe at God’s world.

Latin Foundations

Joyful introduction to vocabulary, chants, and pronunciation.

Art, Music, and Recitation

Fine arts study, hymn singing, and community recitations that train attention and expression.

Sample Weekly Rhythm

A typical week blends focused classroom instruction with guided home days that reinforce mastery and provide a healthy family rhythm. Actual schedules vary by year and grade.
Day Rhythm Notes
Monday Academy Day Full day of instruction with teachers
Tuesday Home Day Parent-led instruction aligned with classroom pacing
Wednesday Academy Day Recitations, guided lessons, community learning
Thursday Home Day Practice, reading, and skill reinforcement
Friday Flex Day Varies by grade: enrichment, catch-up,
or family time
Home Day Workload Estimates:
K–1: 3–4 hours • Grades 2–4: 4–5 hours • Grades 5–6: 5+ hours

Location

Soteria Church

TRCA’s Grammar School meets at Soteria Church in West Des Moines. The campus provides bright classrooms and generous indoor and outdoor spaces for K–6 learning.
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3250 SE Soteria Ave
West Des Moines, IA 50265
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Grammar School Faculty

Teachers who guide students through the Logic and Rhetoric stages with intellectual seriousness and faithful care.
Mrs. Angie Bettin

Mrs. Angie Bettin

First Grade Teacher
Paul Cameron

Paul Cameron

Student Life Coordinator, Physical Education Teacher

Mrs. Rebekah Chung

Lunch and Recess Associate
Mrs. Cindy Fee

Mrs. Cindy Fee

Third Grade Teacher
Mrs. Audrey Froah

Mrs. Audrey Froah

Fourth Grade Teacher
Mr. Dylan Gadberry

Mr. Dylan Gadberry

Fifth Grade Teacher
Miss Abigail Kelly

Miss Abigail Kelly

First Grade Teacher

Mrs. Katie LaFollette

Associate Teacher
Mrs. Laura Meyers

Mrs. Laura Meyers

Kindergarten Teacher
Mr. Jordan Pohlmann

Mr. Jordan Pohlmann

Music Teacher

Anastacia Reu

Associate Teacher
Mrs. Deborah Rose

Mrs. Deborah Rose

Fifth Grade Teacher
Mrs. Misty Sano

Mrs. Misty Sano

Physical Education Teacher
Kendall Schaffer

Mrs. Kendall Schaffer

Collaboration Coordinator, Second Grade Teacher
Mrs. Nancy Schroeder

Mrs. Nancy Schroeder

Second Grade Teacher
Mr. Josiah Segebart

Mr. Josiah Segebart

Sixth Grade Teacher
Mrs. Melissa Tucker

Mrs. Melissa Tucker

Science & Latin Teacher
Mrs. Tricia Webster

Mrs. Tricia Webster

Math & Science Teacher
Headshot of Joanna Smith-Nelson

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Joanna Smith-Nelson
Parent

Explore Enrollment

Enrollment for K–12 is open as space allows. We welcome the opportunity to meet your family.