The Big Red Schoolhouse will be a faith-based private K-8 school operating much like the one-room schoolhouses of old, with multi-grade level instruction blended with individualized learning. We will have 3 classrooms with K-2 in our largest area where they will have plenty of room to learn and explore, and then also 2 other large classrooms with grades 3-5 and 6-8.
Our mission is to provide a structured, nurturing environment where students get back to basics and can grow spiritually, intellectually, and socially. We plan on serving approximately 40 students on campus in our first year. We will also offer an umbrella program to assist homeschooling families in our area with curriculum, state compliance, and tutoring. We plan on serving approximately 30 students grades 3-12 in our umbrella program.
WHY ARE WE THE RIGHT FIT FOR YOUR CHILD'S EDUCATION?
Locally Invested: We live and work in Johnson County and understand the academic, emotional, and spiritual needs of the children here.
Experienced and Faithful: Our team has hands-on experience working with students from all backgrounds, including those with learning challenges and special needs.
Mission-Focused: More than a business, this school is a mission. We are deeply committed to serving students and families with love, excellence, and purpose.
Operationally Sound: Our blend of skills cover all aspects of running a successful private school, from classroom management to curriculum development to operational logisticsl.
CONNIE LISENBEA
Connie has a Masters Degree in Education and almost 30 years experience in the field of education. Her diverse background spans inner-city and small-town public and private schools and she has worked in a variety of roles in education from teacher, lead teacher, interventionist, and administrator. Her deep compassion for children, professional expertise, and unwavering faith make her a cornerstone of the academy..
CONLEY LISENBEA
Conley is a hands-on solution-driven leader with nearly 30 years of experience in service-related fields. From technology and office systems to kitchen management and operations, he possesses a rare variety of skills essential to operate a school. His ability to solve problems, maintain systems, and support daily operations with integrity and a servant's heart make him a perfect partner in ensuring the school functions smoothly and effectively. His behind-the scenes dedication steadies our foundation, keeping it strong and stable.
At The Big Red Schoolhouse Christian Academy, “back-to-basics” means getting back to what matters most — strong academics, good manners, and Christ-like character.
We focus on building a solid foundation in:
But we believe education is more than just academics.
We intentionally nurture:
In our on-campus multi-grade classroom model, children learn in a family-like environment where older and younger students learn from one another—just like generations before. It’s a refreshing return to simplicity, where strong values and timeless wisdom shape the leaders of tomorrow.
In our K–2 program, we focus on building a joyful love of learning while establishing strong foundations in reading, writing, and math. Through phonics-based instruction, hands-on activities, and gentle routines, students gain confidence in core skills while learning to listen, follow directions, and care for others.
We keep things simple and steady in our K–2 classroom. The day includes:
With small class sizes and loving, attentive teachers, each child at our academy receives the individual care and guidance they need to thrive. In these early years, we nurture curiosity, attentiveness, and Christ-like character in a safe, loving environment that feels like family.
Our 3rd–5th grade program helps students transition from learning to read, to reading to learn. We place a strong emphasis on developing writing skills, growing mathematical understanding, and building the ability to work independently—all while deepening faith and responsibility.
Our grade 3-5 classroom environment promotes independence within a supportive structure:
This stage is all about gaining tools for lifelong learning—academically, socially, and spiritually. Students continue to grow academically while learning to be kind, respectful classmates and diligent, thoughtful learners.
Middle school is a pivotal time for students to grow in maturity, develop independent thinking, and take ownership of their faith and learning. Our 6–8 program challenges students intellectually while providing a Christ-centered framework for forming identity, purpose, and responsibility.
In our 6-8 grade program, students are guided to take ownership of their learning and develop critical thinking skills. We challenge them academically while providing spiritual encouragement and emotional support during these formative years.
Our middle school environment promotes healthy independence, mentorship, and community:
Our goal is to graduate middle schoolers who are academically prepared, spiritually grounded, and ready to lead with wisdom and grace. Middle school students will learn to apply knowledge, think deeply, and live out their faith as young men and women of integrity.
Our umbrella program is designed for families who homeschool independently but desire oversight, accountability, and Christ-centered community support. As a Category IV church-related school in Tennessee, The Big Red Schoolhouse Christian Academy provides the legal structure needed to comply with state homeschooling laws — while still giving families full freedom to choose their curriculum and schedule.
We’re here to support homeschooling families every step of the way — providing structure when it’s needed, flexibility where it’s valued, and a solid Christian foundation for life after graduation.
