Fifth Grade at Kenston Forest provides an enriching educational experience centered on reading and the core curriculum. Our reading program is based on the Scott Foresman Reading series focusing on the development of fluent readers with an emphasis on literature, language and communication, and research and study skills. English instruction reinforces grammar and usage in speaking, writing, and the writing process.

Mathematics instruction is based on the Houghton Mifflin program, which utilizes a systematic step-by-step approach to developing mathematics concepts. Skills include multiplication, division, equations, decimals, measurement, integers, fractions, and statistics. The Science curriculum utilizes a hands-on approach to introduce fifth graders to investigating weather and climate, cells and body systems, the solar system, matter and energy, biomes, and force and motion.

The Houghton Mifflin Social Studies program focuses on American History from early exploration through the Civil War and Reconstruction.

Students participate in physical education and weekly resource classes with instruction in French, Russian culture, library, music, and art. Monthly chapel programs are included at Kenston Forest and are dedicated to teaching Christian values.

The D.A.R.E. program presents an excellent learning opportunity for fifth graders. For nine weeks a Nottoway County deputy sheriff instructs students on drug and alcohol resistance. Students learn about the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse. The program culminates with a classroom graduation and each student's promise to say "NO" to drug and alcohol use.

While classroom learning is essential, other educational opportunities exist. Each year field trips, designed to enhance classroom instruction, are scheduled. Trips have included The Thomas Jefferson Learning Center, Monticello, and The Science Museum of Virginia. The end of the fifth grade year is highlighted with an overnight cabin-camping trip to the Blue Ridge Mountains where students view Crabtree Falls, the longest continuous waterfall east of the Mississippi. The trip continues with a hike up Spy Rock and visits to Cyrus McCormick's Farm and the American Museum of Frontier Culture. Other important extracurricular activities include a Christmas program, May Day, Field Day, and forensics competition. The goal of these programs is to help students build self-confidence and teamwork skills.

All aspects of fifth grade help provide for the overall healthy development of each student. Kenston Forest strives to build life skills as well as academic skills.