K-5 Academics

We offer a seamless path to middle school readiness.

Together, Smithson Craighead Academy, PREP After School, and Reading Success take your child from learning to read to being ready for middle school.

Smithson Craighead Academy classroom

Smithson Craighead Academy

Smithson Craighead Academy is our free K-5 public charter school. Opened in 2003, it was the first charter school in Middle Tennessee.

Our elementary school is designed to build on what children learn in pre-K. Research shows that pre-K gains often fade away when children enter elementary school with students who haven't received pre-K instruction. Through our "Not Fade Away Project," our classrooms are structured to group students with similar knowledge and skills, so that whole group instruction helps every child grow.

The curricula we use for reading and math allows students to gain a deep knowledge about the world beyond the classroom – not just skills or test prep. They learn to read classic literature and understand foundational math concepts, all while gaining a rich vocabulary.

  • Utilize "High Text, Low Tech" curricula to prepare students for long-term academic success
  • Goal for grades K-2: learn to read independently and be 3rd-grade ready
  • Goal for grades 3-5: be ready for the most rigorous middle schools
Learn More

K-5 Programs

Started as Project Reflect's very first initiative, back in 1992, afterschool programming is part of our legacy. PREP offers a safe, structured place for children to learn and grow after the school day ends. Students are given access to homework help, reading support, and fun enrichment activities until pick up.

Reading Success is Project Reflect's proprietary, phonics-based approach to literacy instruction. Our founders, Sister Sandra Smithson and Mary Craighead, first developed Reading Success in 1992. We still use the curriculum today in our Pre-K, elementary classrooms, and afterschool tutoring program. Aligned with the science of reading, Reading Success follows a structured, sequential approach to phonics instruction.