Elementary School
Elementary | Grades K-5
Welcome to ALA Johnston
Building Strong Foundations for Young Patriots
At American Leadership Academy Johnston Lower School, the K–5 years are where students build the knowledge, literacy, mathematical reasoning, and academic habits that later learning depends on.
Our academic approach combines Core Knowledge and Eureka Math, ensuring students do more than just learn isolated skills—they build a strong foundation of background knowledge and problem-solving fluency. Through active learning, dedicated teachers, and a culture grounded in ALA’s R.A.I.S.E. values, we help young Patriots develop the character, curiosity, and confidence they need to successfully transition into Upper School.
Shaping Bright Futures
At ALA, students build a strong foundation for lifelong learning
Reading
& Writing
Creative
Thinking
Math
Problem-Solving
Responsibility
& Respect
Science
Exploration
Collaborative
Learning
History
& Social Studies
Communication
Skills
a well-rounded curriculum
Academics Built for Long-Term Growth
The work students do in Lower School builds the foundation for everything that follows. At ALA Johnston, our academic approach relies on a straightforward idea: students understand new concepts more easily when they already have strong background knowledge.
We pair the Core Knowledge sequence with Eureka Math to emphasize literacy, mathematical reasoning, and problem-solving. Teachers introduce material in manageable steps through active learning, encouraging students to practice, ask questions, explain their thinking, and confidently build toward mastery year after year.
Grade Level Readiness
Read to Achieve at ALA Johnston
In North Carolina, the Read to Achieve law ensures every student is reading at or above grade level by the end of third grade. Throughout the year, third-grade Patriots take reading assessments, such as the Beginning-of-Grade and End-of-Grade tests, to demonstrate their proficiency and readiness for the next grade.
If a student is not yet proficient, there are additional pathways to demonstrate success, including a reading portfolio, alternative assessments, or a summer reading camp. For students who need continued support, we provide the extra help necessary to ensure steady, confident progress in their reading. For more information, visit the North Carolina DPI Read to Achieve Page→
Gifted & Talented
Advanced Learning Opportunities
Every student deserves an education that meets them where they are and pushes them to grow. Our Academically or Intellectually Gifted (AIG) program offers a dynamic, accelerated learning environment that fosters creative thinking, leadership, and academic mastery. Help your student build the confidence and skills they need to thrive.
Developing Leaders
Character Belongs in the Classroom
At ALA Johnston, learning goes beyond core subjects. We combine our academics with our R.A.I.S.E. values—Respect, Accountability, Integrity, Service, and Excellence—through daily lessons and dedicated specials like art, music, technology, and leadership.
For a Lower School student, character is built through everyday choices and real-world action. Through opportunities like our student ambassadors partnering with One Compassion to distribute meals to local families, young Patriots learn what leadership looks like in their community, giving the word "service" a true face.
Elementary School Hours & Contact Information
School Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:25am - 3:25pm
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30am - 4:30pm
Early Release Hours: Days vary, 8:25am - 1:25pm
Phone: (984) 231-2870
Fax: (919) 989-0145
Address: 3770 US-70 BUS, Clayton, NC 27520
Attendance Email: k-5attendance@alajohnston.org
Now Enrolling for 2026-2027
Kindergarten through Grade 12 · Public Tuition-Free Charter School