Lower School | K4-6
Hero
At Orangewood, our lower school team is excited to work in partnership with you to equip your children to transform the world for Christ and His kingdom. Our focus is centered on your children, uniquely created by God, with varied interests, gifts, and talents.
![Lower School Building Alternate Photo]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1716985229/orangewoodchristianorg/mmbtxuycz4b2ld4etnrt/lowerschoolalternatebuilding.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1716985229/orangewoodchristianorg/mmbtxuycz4b2ld4etnrt/lowerschoolalternatebuilding.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1716985229/orangewoodchristianorg/mmbtxuycz4b2ld4etnrt/lowerschoolalternatebuilding.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1716985229/orangewoodchristianorg/mmbtxuycz4b2ld4etnrt/lowerschoolalternatebuilding.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1716985229/orangewoodchristianorg/mmbtxuycz4b2ld4etnrt/lowerschoolalternatebuilding.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1716985229/orangewoodchristianorg/mmbtxuycz4b2ld4etnrt/lowerschoolalternatebuilding.jpg","width":2200}])
Our new building is the best
![Chapel]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1720785055/orangewoodchristianorg/nk0gqaemu4yfwyvletbi/LSimages2024-6.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1720785055/orangewoodchristianorg/nk0gqaemu4yfwyvletbi/LSimages2024-6.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1720785055/orangewoodchristianorg/nk0gqaemu4yfwyvletbi/LSimages2024-6.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1720785055/orangewoodchristianorg/nk0gqaemu4yfwyvletbi/LSimages2024-6.png","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1720785055/orangewoodchristianorg/nk0gqaemu4yfwyvletbi/LSimages2024-6.png","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1720785055/orangewoodchristianorg/nk0gqaemu4yfwyvletbi/LSimages2024-6.png","width":1976}])
Students participate in corporate worship each week through Bible Families, grade-level chapels, and whole campus chapels
![STEM / hands on science]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1720785054/orangewoodchristianorg/mw88engdo85rvtrz3lev/LSimages2024-4_1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1720785054/orangewoodchristianorg/mw88engdo85rvtrz3lev/LSimages2024-4_1.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1720785054/orangewoodchristianorg/mw88engdo85rvtrz3lev/LSimages2024-4_1.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1720785054/orangewoodchristianorg/mw88engdo85rvtrz3lev/LSimages2024-4_1.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1720785054/orangewoodchristianorg/mw88engdo85rvtrz3lev/LSimages2024-4_1.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1720785054/orangewoodchristianorg/mw88engdo85rvtrz3lev/LSimages2024-4_1.jpg","width":2200}])
Students explore their physical world through hands-on experiments
![Competitive robotics team]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1721050802/orangewoodchristianorg/joxmopny8dt36cylcqq3/LSimages2024-28.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1721050802/orangewoodchristianorg/joxmopny8dt36cylcqq3/LSimages2024-28.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1721050802/orangewoodchristianorg/joxmopny8dt36cylcqq3/LSimages2024-28.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1721050802/orangewoodchristianorg/joxmopny8dt36cylcqq3/LSimages2024-28.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1721050802/orangewoodchristianorg/joxmopny8dt36cylcqq3/LSimages2024-28.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1721050802/orangewoodchristianorg/joxmopny8dt36cylcqq3/LSimages2024-28.jpg","width":2200}])
Students who qualify for this 5th and 6th grade competitive team use VEX IQ, along with project-based learning in competition
![RAMS on the RISE enrichment program]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1721050800/orangewoodchristianorg/fl8l2y3itu33lwrogyuh/LSimages2024-17_1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1721050800/orangewoodchristianorg/fl8l2y3itu33lwrogyuh/LSimages2024-17_1.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1721050800/orangewoodchristianorg/fl8l2y3itu33lwrogyuh/LSimages2024-17_1.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1721050800/orangewoodchristianorg/fl8l2y3itu33lwrogyuh/LSimages2024-17_1.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1721050800/orangewoodchristianorg/fl8l2y3itu33lwrogyuh/LSimages2024-17_1.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1721050800/orangewoodchristianorg/fl8l2y3itu33lwrogyuh/LSimages2024-17_1.jpg","width":2016}])
Students in 2nd - 5th grades engage in two one-hour a week classes to build core brain skills: processing, researching, and writing. A heavy emphasis is devoted to STEM skills.
![two students petting a dog]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1741798806/orangewoodchristianorg/n5tn4vrtuez1yvidqekg/IMG_7938_jpg-JennaThomas_1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1741798806/orangewoodchristianorg/n5tn4vrtuez1yvidqekg/IMG_7938_jpg-JennaThomas_1.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1741798806/orangewoodchristianorg/n5tn4vrtuez1yvidqekg/IMG_7938_jpg-JennaThomas_1.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1741798806/orangewoodchristianorg/n5tn4vrtuez1yvidqekg/IMG_7938_jpg-JennaThomas_1.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1741798806/orangewoodchristianorg/n5tn4vrtuez1yvidqekg/IMG_7938_jpg-JennaThomas_1.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1741798806/orangewoodchristianorg/n5tn4vrtuez1yvidqekg/IMG_7938_jpg-JennaThomas_1.jpg","width":2200}])
Students experience social emotional learning inside and outside of the classroom.
committed to modeling Christ
"For us, being a part of Orangewood is about more than the academics, it is being part of a community committed to modeling how to be a person who loves God and people well. Our children are surrounded by people who care about their hearts as much as their minds and we are so grateful." — Brian and Kristen B.
29
Student clubs
Students explore their gifts and talents through after school opportunities led by teachers and community members.
6
Competitive sports teams
Students participate in learning foundational teamwork skills through weekly practice, coaching, and competition against neighboring Christian Schools.
8 Courses
Parent University
Programs held throughout the school year to empower parents with the tools and resources to actively engage in their child's spiritual and educational journey.
Lower School Academics
Orangewood’s K4–6th Grade program offers a nurturing, faith-based education that fosters academic excellence, social-emotional growth, and spiritual development through engaging, hands-on learning and a Christ-centered worldview.
K4
Orangewood’s K4 program offers a nurturing, play-based environment where young children begin their educational journey through hands-on learning and exploration. Students build foundational skills in literacy, math, and social-emotional development in a warm, curiosity-driven classroom. Biblical principles are woven into daily activities, helping children understand and live out God’s Word.
TK
Orangewood's TK program is truly the gift of time, allowing students to grow academically, socially, and emotionally before entering kindergarten. Students follow kindergarten standards at their own pace. The classroom is kept small in order to provide a warm and nurturing environment where the teacher can devote time to the student's individual needs. Our TK program integrates Christian values, teaching children to see the world through a lens of faith and to grow in their relationship with God.
K - 2nd Grade
In K–2nd Grade at Orangewood, students enjoy a balanced and engaging curriculum that combines core academics with creative arts, physical education, outdoor learning, and spiritual growth. Classrooms are dynamic spaces where children build strong foundations in literacy and math through hands-on activities, small groups, and interactive learning. Every lesson is infused with a Christian worldview, helping students see all knowledge as a gift from God.
3rd - 5th Grade
The 3rd - 5th Grade program at Orangewood is designed to challenge and inspire students as they transition from early childhood education to the intermediate grades. Students develop leadership skills through roles such a kindergarten buddies, school safety patrol, worship team, student council, and participation in NEHS (National Elementary Honors Society). We integrate Christian principles into our teaching, and students are coached on resolving conflicts biblically with their peers.
6th Grade
Our 6th Grade program serves as a pivotal year, preparing students for the challenges and opportunities of middle school. At Orangewood, we emphasize academic rigor, personal responsibility, and spiritual growth. Our curriculum is designed to foster independence with a focus on collaborative learning, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary projects that inspire curiosity and innovation. Organizational skills, time management, study skills, social and emotional skills, and self-advocacy are emphasized to ensure our 6th grade students are well-prepared for the challenges of the upper school campus. Throughout the year, we incorporate a Christian worldview, helping students to see their studies as a way to honor God and serve others.
Learning Enviroment
God has richly blessed Orangewood with brand new facilities that have been thoughtfully designed and built to create intuitive, engaging, and student focused learning environments where our elementary aged students can explore, create, and build.
Butterfly Garden
Flower and Vegetable Garden
Media Center / Library
Gym
Music
Art
Stage
STEM Lab
Technology
Playground
K4 Room
Kindergarten
3rd Grade
6th Grade
Meet the Lower School Admin Team
![Headshot of Dawn Miller]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1721330320/orangewoodchristianorg/eojih1eoax5ynelavvgb/DawnMiller1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1721330320/orangewoodchristianorg/eojih1eoax5ynelavvgb/DawnMiller1.jpg","width":483}])
Lower School Principal
Lower School Principal
dmiller@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2015
EDUCATION
MS Educational Leadership / MS in Special Education, Arcadia University
FUN FACT
She loves dressing up as the Cat in the Hat for Dr. Seuss' birthday, and fostering a love of reading in young children.
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Grandparents' Day. 6th Grade Moving Up Parade. Pastors' Breakfast.
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Hebrews 12:2
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Americano or Salted Caramel Cold Brew
Mrs. Dawn Miller grew up in a Christian home and lived at a Christian Camp for 20 years, where her father was a camp director and pastor. She accepted the Lord as her Savior at age three but truly let the Lord be the King of her life in college. Coming from a family of educators, she followed in the footsteps of her two older sisters, who also became principals. She married her best friend from college, Mark, 43 years ago. They have a daughter, Brittany, and a son, Marshal, both of whom attended Christian schools from kindergarten through high school. She has been an educator for 43 years, with 42 of those years in Christian education. She has served as a principal for 37 years, working in elementary, middle, and high schools. She felt called to pursue a master's in special education to learn how to meet each child's needs through differentiation and non-traditional methods such as hands-on learning and field trips. After completing her master's, she realized she could impact more students by going into administration, leading her to pursue a master's in educational leadership. She feels fortunate to be a member of Orangewood Church and to work in the ministry at Orangewood Christian School. She counts it a privilege to work at a school with teachers and staff dedicated to serving Christ and with a mission statement centered on impacting the world for Christ.
![Headshot of Melissa Milburn]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1721328663/orangewoodchristianorg/vlxaznywneqazqccehkt/MelissaMilburn1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1721328663/orangewoodchristianorg/vlxaznywneqazqccehkt/MelissaMilburn1.jpg","width":380}])
Lower School Assistant Principal
Lower School Assistant Principal
mmilburn@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2017
EDUCATION
MS Educational Leadership, University of Central Florida, MS Mental Health Counseling, Rollins College
FUN FACT
She is passionate about her faith, family, and the Florida State Seminoles.
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
6th grade car parade
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Colossians 3:23
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Starbucks Vanilla Sweet Cream Cold Brew
Mrs. Melissa Milburn is a life-long learner with a BS in Child Development and Psychology from Florida State University, a Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Rollins College, and Educational Leadership from the University of Central Florida. After 14 years in the classroom, she transitioned into administration. She and her family are active members of Grace Orlando, where they enjoy fellowship with the Orangewood community.
![Headshot of Julie Anderson]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1721329286/orangewoodchristianorg/z5lpwmzncjupy4ihj1le/JulieAnderson1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1721329286/orangewoodchristianorg/z5lpwmzncjupy4ihj1le/JulieAnderson1.jpg","width":435}])
Lower School Dean of Students
Lower School Dean of Students
janderson@ocsrams.org
Apple Teacher Certified
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
1986
EDUCATION
BS History, Flagler College
FUN FACT
She loves playing games with her husband and friends.
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
Alumni returning to work and enrolling their children in OCS. Singing the school hymn,"May the Mind of Christ My Savior."
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Genesis 8:22
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Americano black
Mrs. Julie Anderson has been part of Orangewood Church and Orangewood Christian School since 1986. She was introduced to her husband through a coworker at OCS. She played volleyball and softball as an OCS student and coached volleyball (JV) for 10 years. She also played the clarinet as an OCS student. She believes that everything they do is rooted in Scripture alone, faith alone, grace alone, Jesus alone, and for the glory of God alone. She loves how history connects everything. She was a YMCA counselor and middle school youth director before starting her career in education. She and her husband met while playing games, specifically, a card game called Big Boss.
![Headshot of Shelby Feinberg]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1721328217/orangewoodchristianorg/chwx4fvwoufqhkxneysl/ShelbyFeinberg1.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1721328217/orangewoodchristianorg/chwx4fvwoufqhkxneysl/ShelbyFeinberg1.jpg","width":438}])
Lower School Dean of Students
Lower School Dean of Students
sfeinberg@ocsrams.org
JOINED ORANGEWOOD
2012
EDUCATION
MS Behavior Analysis and Therapy, Southern Illinois University
FUN FACT
She is an enthusiastic Gators fan who loves the University of Florida cheer.
FAVORITE OCS TRADITION
A tie between Grandparents Day and Bible Families/Chapel
FAVORITE BIBLE VERSE
Romans 12:12
FAVORITE BEVERAGE
Water (all day). Pepsi (lunchtime).
Mrs. Shelby Feinberg was born in Orlando and attended Christian schools throughout elementary and high school. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Florida (GO GATORS!) and a Master of Science in Behavior Analysis and Therapy from Southern Illinois University (GO SALUKIS!). She is married to her husband, Ryan, and two of their children, Corrine and Connor, have graduated from OCS. They currently have a daughter, Ryleigh, in fourth grade at the Lower School. She finds it an honor to share her joy in the Lord with the Orangewood Christian School community.
Explore more about what being a RAM has to offer
Student Experience
Talk a closer look at the day to day life of a Ram.
Athletics
Our athletic program is rooted in Christian values, commitment, discipline, and leadership.
Fine Arts
Every student has been created by God with unique and wonderful gifts and talents. At Orangewood, our fine arts programs strive to help each student discover and develop these talents and teach students how there gifts are an act of worship to God.
Lower School Faculty
When students arrive on campus each day, they're welcomed by some of the leading minds in independent education.
