Grade 1

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A big year for growing minds

First Grade at RMES

Building strong foundations in learning, faith, and friendship - all in a nurturing, Christ-centered classroom.

Where confidence begins to bloom

Welcome to First Grade at RMES

Empowering students to grow as thinkers, helpers, and followers of Jesus

First grade is a foundational year at Ruth Murdoch Elementary School - where early readers become strong thinkers, and curiosity is guided with care.

In a warm and structured environment, students develop skills in reading, writing, math, and problem-solving while deepening their understanding of kindness, responsibility, and God’s love.

It’s a year of big milestones and even bigger growth - academically, socially, and spiritually.

Building the Tools to Learn and Live With Purpose

What Students Experience in First Grade

Faith-Filled Learning. Daily devotionals and biblical connections help students apply God’s truth to everyday situations in school and at home.

Math & Problem Solving. Foundational math concepts are taught through hands-on activities, real-world applications, and age-appropriate challenges.

Creative Exploration. Art, music, and movement are woven throughout the day to support different learning styles and encourage joyful expression

Reading & Language Foundations. Students become confident readers and communicators through phonics, guided reading, storytelling, and writing practice.

Social Skills & Responsibility. Through classroom routines and peer interaction, students grow in patience, empathy, and responsibility as part of a learning community.

Guides

Community

Resources

Stay Organized, Stay Connected

Helpful Resources for First Grade Families

Below are helpful tools and links to keep your child on track and engaged throughout the school year.

Grade 1 Supply List (PDF)

Classroom Behavior Expectations

Meet The Teachers

Mrs. Juliette Horton & Ms. Jina Yoon – Grade 1 Teachers

Partnering to create a nurturing, Christ-centered classroom where young learners grow with confidence and care.

Mrs. Horton and Ms. Yoon alternate teaching Grades 1 and 2 each year, bringing a thoughtful balance of experience, creativity, and compassion to the classroom. Mrs. Horton brings decades of teaching experience and a heart for helping students grow closer to Christ in a joyful learning environment. Ms. Yoon, a graduate of Andrews University, is passionate about building inclusive spaces where every child feels valued and celebrated. Together, they help students build strong academic foundations while nurturing spiritual and social development.

Click here for Mrs. Horton's bio

Click here for Ms. Yoon's bio

Where Every Lesson Builds Confidence
and Character

The early years of education shape more than just school readiness—they shape identity, confidence, and a lifelong approach to learning. At Ruth Murdoch Elementary School, we recognize that what happens in these formative years lays the groundwork for how a child thinks, relates, and thrives. Here, education is more than academics. It’s the cultivation of curiosity, the strengthening of resilience, and the daily experience of being seen and supported. In classrooms filled with purpose and encouragement, students begin to understand not just what they can achieve—but who they are in Christ.

Click Here To Request More Information

Our Contact Details

(269) 471 - 3225

rmes@andrews.edu

8885 Garland Ave, Berrien Springs, MI 49104

Hours | Monday -Thursday: 8:05 AM - 4:00 PM Friday: 8:05 AM - 12 PM (closed on weekends & holidays)