Educating for Today, Preparing for Tomorrow.
A private elementary school in St. Louis committed to your child's growth
As your child takes that big step into elementary school, it’s a bittersweet moment — you’re excited to watch them grow, yet you may be overwhelmed with so many questions. You want your child to be in a secure environment that reflects your values, and where technology enhances learning without taking over. You may wonder:
Will my child be safe?
Will the school’s teachings align with what we believe at home?
How is technology used without becoming the focus?
At Kirk Day School, we understand these concerns because we hear them from families visiting our school. This is why in our private elementary school, we prioritize safety, use technology thoughtfully, and emphasize Christ-centered values that guide both academics and spiritual growth. Here, your child will be nurtured, educated, and equipped to succeed today — and in the future.
Learning Environment
At Kirk Day School, we’re with your child every step of the way. Our private Christian school is intentionally designed to equip your child at every stage of their development.
Lower elementary students (first and second graders) focus on building strong reading skills. By the time they reach middle elementary (third and fourth grade), students are reading to learn across subjects. In upper elementary (fifth and sixth grade), they apply what they’ve learned, preparing them for the next chapter with confidence
Educational Philosophy
Our educational philosophy is designed to nurture, educate, and equip your child while preserving the essence of their childhood. From strengthening reading skills in the early years to helping them apply knowledge in fifth and sixth grade, we focus on both academic growth and letting your child experience the joy of being a kid. We meet them where they are, and we engage with their world. Plus, we continue to teach them to stay true to the Gospel, as well as timeless Christian values.
Character Education
At Kirk Day School, our student’s character development is guided by nine Discipleship Habits, which help them grow spiritually and show love to others. These are reinforced daily by teachers, administrators, and during chapel. Additionally, our Young Peacemakers curriculum equips your child with the skills to resolve conflicts and restore peace in their relationships.
Service Opportunities
Service will be a meaningful part of your child’s journey, teaching them the value of giving back. In middle and upper elementary, they’ll join Feed the Need and assemble packages for children worldwide. By sixth grade, they’ll deliver canned goods to local food banks through Loaves and Fishes and discover the impact they can make in their community.
Family Involvement
As a parent, you’ll be an essential part of your child’s experience at KDS. Whether you join us on Fridays for Bible verse recitations, chaperone field trips, or volunteer during Community Week, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to be involved. Your support is invaluable as we partner with you in fostering your child’s growth.
Campus Safety
The safety of your child is our top priority. We work with local law enforcement to ensure a secure environment and have a strong online protection system for safe technology use at our school. The caring culture at KDS also supports students’ emotional well-being so they can flourish in every aspect of school life.
Program Details
At KDS, students benefit from small class sizes, with an average 10:1 student-teacher ratio, which allows for personalized attention and a focused learning experience.
Lower Elementary (Grades 1 & 2)
Middle Elementary (Grades 3 & 4)
Upper Elementary (Grades 5 & 6)
The school day runs from 8:20 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., offering a balanced schedule of core academics, spiritual growth, and specials that support your child’s well-rounded development.
A Day in the Life of a KDS Elementary Student
Morning:
Prayer and Pledge of Allegiance
Morning Meeting: Devotional and Overview of the Day
Co-curricular Classes: PE (Mon-Thurs), Art, Spanish, Music
Chapel (Friday): student-led worship, Scripture recitation, and singing
Core Instruction: Math, Reading
Recess and Lunch
Afternoon:
Science
History
Writing
Dismissal
"God led us to KDS midway through our daughter's elementary school experience. We were looking for a school that equally prioritized her spiritual formation as well as challenging academics. Although we were nervous about transitioning schools, Kirk's welcoming community of students, parents, and teachers made us feel right at home!"
-Nathan and Carla Hoenig, KDS Parents
Distinctives
We’re here to help your child pursue their full potential. Through individualized instruction, expert faculty, and a proven curriculum, we make sure students feel supported as they grow academically.
Core and Co-Curricular Subjects
Students are prepared with academic excellence in core subjects such as reading, math, writing, and Bible. Co-curricular subjects, including Spanish, library, art, music, and P.E., provide a well-rounded experience.
Reading and Comprehension
We nurture your child’s love of reading with a daily 15-minute D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything and Read) time to build vocabulary and encourage reading stamina. Through novel studies, literacy activities, and regular benchmark testing, your child will grow in reading comprehension.
STEM Initiatives
Exciting STEM opportunities in KDS, such as the Lego and Robotics Club, spark creativity and problem-solving skills. Our students also excel in math, competing at the state level and winning awards, which builds confidence and competence in their mathematical abilities.
Mindful Technology Use
We use technology thoughtfully, blending it with a more traditional teaching model so students become tech-savvy without being tech-dependent. Our curriculum is grounded in Christ-centered values, guiding students in wisdom through relevant issues regarding technology use.
Growth Opportunities
Students have many avenues to pursue their God-given gifts. Elementary students can engage in sports such as soccer, volleyball, basketball, baseball, softball, and track & field. In addition, our school community bonds through school spirit events like Field Day, Chapel gatherings, and mentoring between younger and older grades.
Meet A Teacher
Julie Schaffner
Degree: BA in elementary education
Years taught at KDS: 28
What is your favorite thing about teaching at KDS?
“I have the greatest job in the world! Where else are you able to unpack the wonder of God's creation, and His story of salvation day after day within every topic and situation that comes up? Where else are you able to work with other believers to nurture the next generation with the truth of God's Word that will be a foundation for the rest of their lives? Where else do you have the opportunity to share your walk of faith with young hearts that are soft to Jesus' voice? Where else do you get to start each new day with astonishment at the treasured uniqueness of every individual who walks through your door? I am blessed to have this honor and privilege every day!”
Ready to Take the Next Step?
As you consider the best private elementary school in St. Louis, MO, we invite you to schedule a tour where your family can experience everything that Kirk Day School offers. When you're ready to apply, our admissions team will guide you through the process as well.
We understand that you need support as a parent, and we’re here to walk alongside you during this season. Reach out to us with any questions you may have!
Stacy Engel
Director of Admissions