Our academic program is designed to engage students actively in the learning process. Our “living-curriculum” provides Christ-centered instruction in all subject areas, helping students develop a biblical worldview as they grow intellectually. Through small group instruction and one-on-one conferencing, teachers lovingly guide and mentor each student, recognizing their unique strengths and helping them navigate any challenges they may encounter along their educational journey.
Holistic, distinctively Christian approach to education
We consider it an honor to partner with your family during your children's lower school years. We foster a safe and supportive atmosphere where students can form lasting friendships, develop a sense of belonging, and thrive.
- Kelli Larsen, PhD
- Lower School Principal
In addition to academic excellence, Ben Lippen School is known for its family atmosphere. We believe in the power of community and strive to create an environment where every student feels seen, known, and valued. Through initiatives such as student-led chapels, reading buddies, community service projects, and more, we encourage students to grow in their character, leadership skills, and compassion for others. We foster a safe and supportive atmosphere where students can form lasting friendships, develop a sense of belonging, and thrive.
Ben Lippen School seeks to glorify God by assisting the family and the church in equipping students for life beyond our hallways and classrooms. We consider it an honor to partner with your family during their lower school years. God is truly working in the lives of our students, faculty, and staff at Ben Lippen Lower School. May He continue to be glorified in all that we do.
Approach & Culture
Our curriculum, culture, and community all support our biblical worldview and focus on making sure our students are prepared academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. Students' learning experiences are inspired by being nurtured across the 4 A's - Academics, Arts, Athletics, and Attitude (spiritual life).
The Individual Learning Center (ILC) has expanded its resources to more fully serve our students and their learning in a way that helps them to make progress. We've added a new program, The Ridge, to assist students with dyslexia using the Orton Gillingham approach
Our curriculum, culture, and community all support our biblical worldview and focus on making sure our students are prepared academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.
Meet our LS Staff
Christa Agee, Assistant Principal
Steve Maurelli, Director of Student Life
Kelli Larsen PhD, Lower School Principal
Donna Branney, Administrative Assistant
Amy Parks, Administrative Assistant
Gwen Cornwell, Administrative Assistant
Leah Danford, PhD, Director of the Individual Learning Center
Anna Katherine Graves, Lower School Counselor
Sarah Beth Helsley, Director of The Ridge
National Blue Ribbon School
Ben Lippen Lower School has been named a 2023 National Blue Ribbon School by U.S. Secretary of Education, Dr. Miguel Cardona. The U.S. Department of Education recognizes 353 schools as National Blue Ribbon Schools for 2023. The recognition is based on a school’s overall academic performance or progress in closing achievement gaps among student groups on assessments.
The school was nominated in the category of Exemplary High Performing School. This award is given when student achievement in English and Mathematics is among the highest in the country (top 15%), measured by state assessments or nationally normed tests.
Our children are excelling academically as well as spiritually. They are growing in their faith and are encouraged to express it in their relationships (both personal and professionally). Ben Lippen is more than just a place to learn, it’s a place to grow and mature.
– The Craft Family
