PATRIOT LIFE

the elementary
experience

one school,
three locations

Since the inception of our elementary program in 1974, thousands of students have benefited from our commitment to teach from a Biblical worldview. We have two locations in El Cajon and one in the South Bay.

educating the whole child

A quality education includes more than academics. Through physical education, choral music, intramural sports and band, our students develop the skills of teamwork, healthy competition, sportsmanship, and musical creativity.  Instruction in technology skills prepares them for the future in fulfilling God’s calling.

The students’ confidence in their faith is increased through chapel services, ministry to others, and classroom instruction.

academics

Teaching a Biblical worldview in school begins with dedicated Christian educators. Integrating biblical principles into all curriculum, teachers emphasize daily that God is Truth and that His Word is the primary source of knowledge. Eliminating the confusion about who we are and why we are here paves the way for a life of assurance and devotion to God.

CHAPEL

Elementary chapel services hold a central place in fostering spiritual growth and a sense of community among students. These weekly gatherings provide a special time for students to come together in worship and prayer. Often featuring guest speakers or performances, chapel services offer age-appropriate messages that resonate with young hearts and minds.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION & SPORTS

Students participate in PE class and have the option to be involved in our sports programs, including flag football, cheer, basketball, and soccer.

field trips

Field trips offer hands-on and experiential learning, allowing our students to see real-world applications of what they learn in school. These experiences build independence, foster curiosity and social development, and build an appreciation for nature and history.

parent-teacher fellowship

Parent-Teacher Fellowship (PTF) promotes fellowship among the parents and teachers, and assists the school with events like the Fall Festival, Dads & Donuts, Moms & Muffins, and more.

dress code

Christian Unified Schools of San Diego desires to create an educational atmosphere that maximizes learning. Modesty, moderation, neatness, cleanliness, and gender distinction are the overriding principles of the CUSSD uniform policy. The students’ dress should reflect pride in their school and respect for themselves.

CES EAST CAMPUS

On the Shadow Mountain Community Church campus, along with Christian Jr/Sr High School
2100 Greenfield Drive, El Cajon

Transitional kindergarten through 6th grade

CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Large campus, bustling with church & school activity
  • Convenient for families with junior high & high school siblings
  • 500+ students, with multiple classes per grade
  • Kindergarten & First Grade classes are located on our junior campus (click to view map) on the west side of Greenfield Drive
  • PRINCIPAL LISA LEEMAN

    Mrs. Leeman grew up in Ohio and later lived in Georgia before moving with her family to California. She treasures time spent traveling with her husband and children and especially enjoys cheering on her kids in the sports they play. She and her husband also serve together at Shadow Mountain, where he is a pastor. After God and her family, her favorite joys in life include pizza and shoes.

    Mrs. Leeman began her career in education in 2000, teaching Spanish in both high school and junior high. After several years dedicated to raising her children, she completed her California teaching multi-subject credential and returned to the classroom full time at Christian Unified in 2022. She chooses to serve at CUSSD because it allows her to integrate her passion for teaching with her faith, openly pointing students and families toward a relationship with Jesus Christ. With every lesson taught from a Biblical worldview, she hopes to encourage students to see the beautiful plan God has for their lives.

    CES WEST CAMPUS

    On the Campus of Revive Church
    211 S. Third Street, El Cajon, CA

    kindergarten through 6th grade

    CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Elementary-only campus with large playground & athletic fields
  • Close to the Christian Jr/Sr High campus for convenient drop-offs
  • 200+ students, with one teacher for most grades
  • Intimate, family atmosphere
  • PRINCIPAL MARLA HESTER

    Originally from North Carolina, Mrs. Hester spent 20+ years as a teacher and principal in Christian schools in Florida, receiving a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Stetson University. To her, being a principal is not just a career but a calling. Since coming to Christian Unified in 2017, she has felt blessed every day with the opportunity to do what God has called her to do—help children establish a foundation built upon the rock of Jesus Christ that will guide them, their families, and communities for generations to come.

    christian south

    470 L Street, Chula Vista, CA

    4-year-old kindergarten through 8th grade

    CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS:

  • Junior campus for TK & K.
  • Main campus for 1st through 8th.
  • Serves families living in the South Bay area of San Diego County.
  • Specializing in Early Childhood Education since 1984.
  • Four- and five-year-olds read and have fun while they grow.
  • K4 children must turn four by December 31.
  • Regular Day (8:00-3:00) and Full Day (7:00-5:30) options.
  • PRINCIPAL brenda sniff

    Working at Christian South is a blessing every day. I have the privilege of encouraging our students and witnessing them grow into the young men and women that Jesus has created them to become. Working alongside fellow believers, we are empowered to achieve more together than we ever could on our own.

    "But Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of heaven." Matthew 19:14

    LIPSYNC 2025

    Lipsync will be streamed on the evening of Friday, September 26.
    Start time is based on a variety of factors.

    ENGLISH PROFICIENCY MINIMUMS FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

    GradeTOEFL JrTOEFLiTEPDuolingo
    6700NA3NA
    7750NA3NA
    8800503.380-85
    985050-603.385-90
    10NA60-703.590-95
    11NA70+3.895+

    research links & INformation

    Web Research Links:

    Grolier Online (includes Encyclopedia Americana)
    User ID: christianhs
    Password: patriot

    EBSCO Host Research Databases – Full-text Periodical and Reference Articles Online
    User ID: christianhs
    Password: patriot2019!

    SIRS Knowledge Source – Periodical articles online
    User ID: CA3906
    Password: PATRIOT

    San Diego County Library Website
    Enter library card number; enter last four digits or phone number for PIN or, for newer users, make your own PIN.