At Denver Christian School, we believe students are wonderfully made by God, and we’re committed to nurturing every aspect of their growth — mind, body, heart, and soul — so they can uncover and develop their God-given gifts.
How do we accomplish this? Through the Six Spheres of Learning, a Christ-centered framework that supports student development through every age and stage.
Our proven approach to
whole-child education.
Choosing a Christian school for your son or daughter can feel like a leap of faith. You’re trusting that school leaders, faculty, and staff have a thoughtful and effective approach for the years ahead. At Denver Christian, we believe it’s important to provide a clear and transparent picture of what families can expect.
Our proven process, the Six Spheres of Learning, articulates our approach to Christ-centered, whole-person formation across every Age-and-Stage.
The table below offers a high-level overview of each component of the Six Spheres. Start here, then explore how the Six Spheres take shape at each Age-and-Stage.
| Component | Definition | Outcomes | Go Deeper |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
DefinitionForming students in their spiritual journey with an emphasis on discovering and embracing God’s plan for their lives, nurturing a deeper relationship with God, and grounding them in Christian values, beliefs, and practices. |
||
|
|
OutcomesTruth discerner
|
Go DeeperSee how Cognitive Growth applies in: |
|
|
|
DefinitionStewarding students’ physical health and well-being through regular physical and play-based activity, balanced nutrition, and adequate rest, with an emphasis on honoring the body as part of God’s design. |
Go deeperSee how Physical Growth applies in: |
|
|
|
DefinitionCultivating students’ originality and innovation by encouraging them to generate new ideas, create original works, and pursue imaginative solutions to problems, echoing God’s act of creation. |
OutcomesBeauty Creator
|
Go DeeperSee how Creative Growth applies in: |
|
|
DefinitionStrengthening students’ social intelligence and emotional maturity by helping them navigate social environments, build positive relationships, and engage others with empathy, respect, and care. |
OutcomesImage Reflector
|
Go DeeperSee how Personal Growth applies in: |
|
|
OutcomesShalom Restorer
|
Go DeeperSee how Social Growth applies in: |
Preschool (Ages 3-4)
Morning Worship shapes daily rhythms through class-specific songs; prayer woven into meals, birthdays, sickness, and classroom needs; Holy Spirit Time inviting children to rest quietly with Jesus; spiritual formation embedded in ordinary moments.
Worship, prayer, and Bible storytelling are naturally integrated into classroom life; spiritual growth emerges through music, devotions, and shared routines rather than formal programs.
Growing awareness of God’s love and forgiveness; early expressions of the Fruits of the Spirit in peer interactions; ability to recognize and affirm God-given gifts; foundational habits of prayer, worship, and trust, preparing students for deeper engagement.
Kindergarten
Weekly chapel and daily devotions establish rhythms of worship and prayer; consistent practices help students experience God’s presence in familiar, age-appropriate ways.
Art, music, and play-based learning frequently incorporate Christian themes; creative expression supports joyful, early faith development.
Clearer understanding of God’s presence in daily life; emerging awareness of living out faith through kindness, obedience, and love toward others.
Elementary (1-5)
Regular chapel services with opportunities to worship and lead; FLEX service experiences such as A Precious Child, Platt Park Church outreach, Nepal orphanage partnership, and Feed My Starving Children; classroom practices encouraging reconciliation, empathy, and shalom.
FLEX rotations and Faith Families building service and community; student-led devotions offering leadership in worship and Scripture; music and art performances centered on worship and the beauty of God’s creation.
Growth as God worshipers, shalom restorers, and servant leaders; increasing awareness of faith reflected in everyday decisions; deeper familiarity with Scripture, prayer, and Christlike character.
Middle School (6-8)
Rehearsals begin with silence or prayer to invite God’s presence; worship music integrated into playlists and performances; Chamber Ensemble serves through Christmas music in memory care centers; conversations frame music-making and teamwork as worship.
Chamber Ensemble functions as a service-based performance group; leadership roles in music and other MS activities provide space to live out faith through responsibility and community.
Stronger understanding of gifts as expressions of worship and service; increased ownership of spiritual identity; growing awareness of how faith shapes relationships, decisions, and creative expression.
High School (9-12)
Chapel designed for real-time application of Scripture; DC Disciples gives students a voice in spiritual focus and community care; corporate prayer for peers in need; retreats, Service Days, and formative learning experiences such as Unbroken, connecting faith with perseverance, compassion, and calling.
DC Disciples serve as a spiritual leadership pathway; FLEX service tied explicitly to faith formation; Senior Synthesis supporting vocational reflection and spiritual identity; co-curricular spaces reinforcing worship, leadership, and encouragement.
Deeper integration of faith with academics, relationships, vocation, and daily choices; greater ownership of spiritual habits beyond chapel; clearer identity as image bearers called to steward all of creation; increasing maturity in applying a Christian worldview to complex, real-world contexts.
Preschool (Ages 3-4)
John 15:5, 7 — “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”
Kindergarten
John 15:5, 7 — “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”
Elementary (1-5)
John 15:5, 7 — “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”
Middle School (6-8)
John 15:5, 7 — “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”
High School (9-12)
John 15:5, 7 — “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.”
Preschool (Ages 3-4)
International meal connecting family cultures and classroom community; Fry Bread Day honoring gratitude and history; birthday prayer moments creating rhythm and belonging; daily worship and prayer reinforcing early cognitive, relational, and spiritual awareness.
Enrichment embedded naturally within classroom rhythms; music, movement, imaginative play, and storytelling support cognitive development without standalone program structures.
Growth in early literacy and numeracy readiness; increasing curiosity, confidence, and attention; vocabulary and problem-solving developing through play; teachers strengthening practice through CEUs and Colorado Shines to maintain high-quality early childhood instruction.
Kindergarten
Programs such as FLEX, 100’s Day, Zero the Hero, Butterfly Pavilion, and Reading Buddies foster peer learning and cognitive growth within a faith-centered community.
Specialized classes in art, STEM, physical education, and music; after-school programs allowing students to explore creativity and talents as God-given gifts.
Strong academic foundation in literacy and problem-solving; growing confidence and readiness for the next stage of learning.
Elementary (1-5)
Hands-on investigations like Crayfishing and Glove Gardens; deeper learning through Ameritowne and Southwest Adopt-a-Pilot; field trips including Cheyenne Mountain Zoo and Skate City; culture fairs, Wax Museum, and Unsung Heroes connecting research and presentation; library experiences such as Triple Crown reading.
Specials in art, music, PE, library, STEM, and Bible; leadership opportunities through class roles and ThunderNews; clubs and camps, including 3D design, running clubs, and Landsharks.
Increasing confidence in literacy, numeracy, and problem-solving; struggling learners receiving targeted support that builds resilience; growing ability to apply learning through FLEX and service; executive-functioning skills developing in preparation for middle school.
Middle School (6-8)
Concerts, performances, and school events require focused preparation and application of learning; Colorado Symphony visit exposes students to professional musicianship; reflective moments before and after performances connect effort, excellence, and purpose.
Chamber Ensemble, Jazz Band, Drumline, and elective-based opportunities for in-depth study; participation in events such as the Colorado Bandmasters MS Festival or the Mapleton Honor Band offers feedback, challenge, and community; additional clubs and electives extend learning beyond the classroom.
Developing independence as thinkers and learners; growing persistence and curiosity; increasing ability to analyze, collaborate, and refine work; readiness for high school marked by stronger organization, self-advocacy, and confidence in complex learning.
High School (9-12)
English projects such as the Civil War Letter Project and Unbroken; tech experiences, including ethical hacking simulations, digital design, electronics builds, and iterative engineering work; Discovery Week and career-focused trips expand exposure to real-world contexts.
Film club, orchestra club, and other co-curriculars extend learning; student government and leadership roles; entrepreneurial and internship opportunities supported by Maia Learning, the Career & Tech Director, and Senior Synthesis.
High-quality revised work in writing and tech; growing confidence applying cognitive skills to complex tasks; clearer understanding of strengths, interests, and post-graduation pathways; readiness to engage the world as image bearers who think critically and act wisely.
Preschool (Ages 3-4)
1 Corinthians 2:16 – Who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.
Kindergarten
1 Corinthians 2:16 – Who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.
Elementary (1-5)
1 Corinthians 2:16 – Who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.
Middle School (6-8)
1 Corinthians 2:16 – Who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.
High School (9-12)
1 Corinthians 2:16 – Who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?” But we have the mind of Christ.
Preschool (Ages 3-4)
Snack and lunch by the pond on warm days; outdoor moments blend movement, nature, and daily routines; physical rhythms that support coordination, calm, and healthy habits.
Physical development nurtured naturally through daily play and movement; gross-motor activities and outdoor exploration embedded in routines rather than standalone programs.
Developing healthy eating habits and physical independence; growing body awareness; early understanding that caring for the body is part of living gratefully and responsibly as God’s children.
Kindergarten
Daily recess and physical education classes help students build strength, coordination, and a love for active play, while also teaching them that caring for their bodies honors God.
Structured games, team-building activities, and play-based PE emphasizing cooperation and physical growth in a joyful, Christian environment.
Growing understanding of physical health, exercise, and nutrition as ways to serve God and others.
Elementary (1-5)
Field Day celebrates movement and teamwork; multiple recess periods promote activity and stamina; body-awareness learned through Bones–Body Challenges and skeletal system activities; guest speakers introduce health-related fields.
Landsharks Running Club, karate club, and sports camps build confidence and endurance; additional movement through extra recess, track laps, and classroom-based activity breaks.
Increasing strength, coordination, and endurance; recognition that movement supports focus and learning; appreciation for caring for the body as part of honoring God’s design; readiness for more advanced physical challenges.
Middle School (6-8)
Weekly breathing and technique exercises; stamina-building ensemble challenges; mindful warm-ups before rehearsals and performances; PE activities cultivate teamwork, critical thinking, problem-solving, and lifelong physical activity.
Drumline develops coordination, stamina, and physical awareness; athletic teams offer structured growth in discipline and teamwork; no intramurals or undefined “outdoor adventures” are claimed unless confirmed.
Improved stamina, posture, and physical self-awareness; stronger understanding of recovery, hydration, and healthy habits; readiness for more demanding physical and musical work; growing stewardship of the body.
High School (9-12)
Daily athletic practices and competitive sports provide a sustained physical challenge; hands-on tech projects involve building, testing, and safe tool use, which supports body awareness beyond athletics.
Wide range of sports teams provides meaningful physical development; co-curricular engagement centered on athletics rather than unclear or nonexistent offerings such as “personal fitness programs” or “outdoor leadership challenges.”
Strength, stamina, and skill developing through athletics; healthier habits around movement, rest, and digital ergonomics; ongoing need to support balance between athletics, academics, and home life as part of mature physical stewardship.
Preschool (Ages 3-4)
Psalm 139:14 — “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Kindergarten
Psalm 139:14 — “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Elementary (1-5)
Psalm 139:14 — “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Middle School (6-8)
Psalm 139:14 — “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
High School (9-12)
Psalm 139:14 — “I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
Preschool (Ages 3-4)
Making blankets for babies at Children’s Hospital pairs creativity with compassion; outdoor and sensory-rich moments that nurture curiosity, beauty-awareness, and playful exploration of the world God made.
Creative enrichment occurs naturally within daily classroom rhythms; music, art, building, and storytelling support expressive development without standalone program structures.
New themes are introduced each day, encouraging novelty and exploration; students grow as imaginative thinkers and confident makers; early understanding forms that creativity reflects God’s image and prepares them for more structured creative expression in kindergarten.
Kindergarten
Activities such as collaborative art projects and interactive storytelling help students understand the role of creativity in God’s world, allowing them to express their ideas and thoughts freely.
Provides structured time for music, art, and STEM exploration, emphasizing creativity in both artistic and technical expressions, while guiding students to see creativity as a reflection of God’s nature.
Students develop the ability to generate new ideas and express themselves confidently, understanding creativity as a gift from God meant to be nurtured and shared.
Elementary (1-5)
Veterans Day performances and chapel contributions; Wax Museum and Unsung Heroes blend research and creative storytelling; classroom projects such as state float designs, sled building for the float parade, God’s Creation mobiles, posters, and themed displays; opportunities to engage with beauty through books, illustrations, and visual arts.
Specials in art and music broaden creative practice; theater opportunities, 3D design clubs and camps, Fish Tank projects, and other performance-based or maker-centered activities that allow students to explore God-given gifts.
Growing confidence as expressive creators in visual, musical, and written forms; deepening appreciation for beauty, craftsmanship, and purposeful creativity; increasing ability to produce thoughtful, well-crafted work that reflects God’s design and prepares them for more advanced creative opportunities in middle school.
Middle School (6-8)
Concerts and performances celebrate beauty through music; creative clinics and workshops stretch artistic expression; composition projects allow students to hear, refine, and share their work; reflective practices help students connect music-making with joy, hope, peace, and worship.
MS Jazz Band, Chamber Ensemble, and Drumline offer deeper creative exploration, leadership, and collaboration; community performances provide opportunities to bless others and bring beauty into shared spaces.
Growing confidence as expressive musicians and creative thinkers; developing originality while honoring musical form and purpose; understanding creativity as a God-given gift to steward for others’ good; forming an artistic identity rooted in faith and calling.
High School (9-12)
Art shows, independent mural projects, and service-learning through art; tech experiences include game creation, product design, electronics builds, and iterative engineering; open-ended, project-based learning across subjects where students create unique work shaped by faith, calling, and craftsmanship.
Fine arts, drama, orchestra, and film clubs expand creative pathways; opportunities for deeper exploration through independent study in tech or advanced projects; CTE-related programs and entrepreneurial experiences offer real contexts for creative problem-solving.
Students growing as beauty creators and appreciators—able to make, refine, and value meaningful work; gaining experience moving from no prior skill to functional designs or performances; increasing ownership of talents as God-given gifts for innovation, service, and contribution; readiness to pursue creative interests with confidence beyond high school.
Preschool (Ages 3-4)
Exodus 31:3-4 – I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills— to make artistic designs… and to engage in all kinds of crafts.
Kindergarten
Exodus 31:3-4 – I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills— to make artistic designs… and to engage in all kinds of crafts.
Elementary (1-5)
Exodus 31:3-4 – I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills— to make artistic designs… and to engage in all kinds of crafts.
Middle School (6-8)
Exodus 31:3-4 – I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills— to make artistic designs… and to engage in all kinds of crafts.
High School (9-12)
Exodus 31:3-4 – I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills— to make artistic designs… and to engage in all kinds of crafts.
Preschool (Ages 3-4)
Daily routines such as table time, circle time, and shared games serve as spaces to practice self-control, kindness, and patience; Compliment Fridays invite children to affirm peers by naming how they show God’s love, often tied to the Fruits of the Spirit.
Personal growth is woven into classroom life; group play, shared responsibilities, and daily interactions help children recognize their giftings and appreciate those of others without formal programs.
Growth in patience and waiting; increasing awareness of others’ needs; early habits of encouragement and affirmation; foundational personal responsibility and confidence within a caring classroom community.
Kindergarten
Classroom leadership moments, such as “teacher for a day” or leading group activities; experiences building confidence, voice, and self-awareness.
Art, music, and physical education provide creative expression; opportunities to discover interests and talents within a Christian community.
Clearer sense of identity and God-given abilities; growing understanding of how personal gifts contribute to community life and ongoing growth.
Elementary (1-5)
Leadership moments in chapel, Morning Meetings, and classroom roles; presentations and project responsibilities, including Ameritowne interviews and job applications; celebration of individual uniqueness through culture projects, birthday boards, and conversations about God’s design.
Leadership through ThunderNews, class jobs, Buddies, and Faith Families; clubs and service opportunities through FLEX foster initiative, communication, and responsibility.
Increased self-awareness and confidence in God-given strengths; greater ownership of learning, communication, and responsibilities; developing language and habits that support God-honoring priorities and relationships.
Middle School (6-8)
Solos and featured performance opportunities to express unique identity; participation in honor bands, festivals, and symphony visits broadens vision and confidence; collaborative projects and rehearsals build resilience, responsibility, and constructive feedback skills.
Honor bands, festivals, special ensembles, and leadership roles, such as section leaders or officers, offer avenues for initiative, ownership, and responsibility.
Increasing emotional maturity and self-awareness; improved ability to manage performance anxiety, collaboration, and critique; emerging clarity around identity, strengths, and calling as independence grows.
High School (9-12)
Senior Synthesis as a capstone for reflection and direction; Discovery Week, retreats, and community events cultivate maturity and responsibility; HS students model leadership and presence when the whole school gathers, shaping culture for younger students.
Student government, DC Disciples, club and team leadership, art and tech projects, and CTE pathways; internships, field trips, and career programming broaden vision and ownership of next steps.
Growth in self-awareness, responsibility, and resilience; discovery of strengths through complex work; stepping into leadership within the DC community; clearer sense of calling in preparation for life beyond high school.
Preschool (Ages 3-4)
Ephesians 2:10 – For we are God’s masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Kindergarten
Ephesians 2:10 – For we are God’s masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Elementary (1-5)
Ephesians 2:10 – For we are God’s masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Middle School (6-8)
Ephesians 2:10 – For we are God’s masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
High School (9-12)
Ephesians 2:10 – For we are God’s masterpiece, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.
Preschool (Ages 3-4)
Morning Worship with songs chosen for classroom needs; Holy Spirit Time invites children to rest quietly with Jesus; daily routines support emotional expression, care for peers, and age-appropriate Christian community.
Social and emotional formation embedded naturally in classroom life; prayer rhythms, worship moments, and shared play shape relational habits rather than standalone programs.
Growing awareness of God’s love and care; early understanding of forgiveness; practice of the Fruits of the Spirit with peers; Compliment Fridays build confidence, gratitude, and habits of affirming others in Christ-like ways.
Kindergarten
Classroom centers, projects, and performances build community; weekly chapel introduces healthy relationships and the practice of bringing healing to others.
Art, music, and play-based learning provide space to explore emotions and social interactions; guided practice in resolving conflict through Christlike principles.
Stronger social skills and emotional resilience; understanding that interactions with others are opportunities to reflect God’s love and build Christian community.
Elementary (1-5)
FLEX service experiences such as A Precious Child, Platt Park Church outreach, and Feed My Starving Children; chapel participation and leadership shaping spiritual and relational awareness; library discussions foster active listening, respect for differing opinions, and thoughtful sharing.
Buddies programs connect older and younger students; Faith Families mix grades for service, prayer, and community; small groups and counseling-based social groups offer additional relational support.
Growing empathy, communication, and self-awareness; increasing ability to navigate conflict with patience and restoration; students becoming shalom restorers who contribute to a positive, supportive learning environment.
Middle School (6-8)
Small-group ensemble challenges require cooperation and mutual support; community performances cultivate compassion and humility; class and section discussions address conflict honestly and celebrate restored relationships.
Leadership roles such as section leaders and band officers create opportunities to guide peers with fairness and empathy; performing arts and other MS activities reinforce responsibility and teamwork.
Stronger collaboration and empathy; improved ability to resolve conflict constructively and restore harmony; readiness for leadership and mentorship grounded in Christlike character.
High School (9-12)
Discovery Week, retreats, and major community events such as Homecoming, Mr. Thunder, and Service Days; FLEX projects broaden perspective; chapel and follow-up conversations connect faith, relationships, and emotional maturity; HS students serve as role models for younger peers across the K–12 community.
Student government, DC Disciples, and clubs during Enrichment Time offer belonging, leadership, and connection; structured opportunities for participation in community life across grade levels.
Healthier classroom environments where relationships are intentionally cultivated; growth in conflict resolution, empathy, and community awareness; continued need for support in building emotional resilience and balancing academic, athletic, and life pressures wisely.
Preschool (Ages 3-4)
Focus
Ephesians 4:16 – From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
Kindergarten
Focus
Ephesians 4:16 – From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
Elementary (1-5)
Focus
Ephesians 4:16 – From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
Middle School (6-8)
Focus
Ephesians 4:16 – From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.
High School (9-12)
Focus
Ephesians 4:16 – From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.