Valley Christian Academy Curriculum Information

The vca difference

Valley Christian Academy offers a caring, nurturing environment where children in grades PK3 - 10 study the foundational Biblical truths and precepts that make up the world around them. Classroom environments encourage exploration, inquiry, and critical thinking. Teachers strive to meet the individual learning needs of each child through small groups and differentiated activities.

Curriculum used

Valley Christian Academy grades and classrooms use Bob Jones University (https://www.bjupress.com/about/), Saxon Math and occasional supplemental materials. The BJU Curriculum aligns with the goals of VCA in the following ways*:

• Biblical Worldview

  • In Christian education, the Bible is discussed in Bible class and Chapel—but how does it apply to other academic subjects? BJU Curriculum shapes each subject according to the lens of Scripture. Each discipline takes on new meaning when we apply the themes of Creation, Fall, and Redemption. Learn more HERE.

• ACADEMIC RIGOR

  • BJU educational materials are not just biblically faithful—they are also academically sound. These materials use hands-on-learning, creative problem solving, and other research-proven instructional strategies to motivate students to take an active role in learning and to master age-appropriate material.

• CRITICAL THINKING

  • A complete education goes beyond facts and processes, so the BJU textbooks direct students to think for themselves. They are encouraged to use discernment and to consider their worldview in everyday situations. Our textbooks help students to develop skills in critical thinking with inductive teaching, hands-on-learning, and probing questions.

• TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

  • BJU offers technology enhancements for teachers and students to use daily in their classrooms and on the go.

TEaching strategies

• At Valley Christian Academy, we strongly encourage hands-on and experiential learning to accompany lessons and bring subject matter to life for deeper comprehension for all types of learners. Our teachers bring creativity to the classroom to make learning fun and meaningful.

• VCA understands that children need time outside and movement. VCA students have recess, play outdoor sports, and take morning walks every day (weather permitting).

• VCA believes students need basic life skills from an early age. Through our Life Essentials Class, we teach students a variety of skills including interpersonal interaction, table decorum, household chores, and more from an early age.

The following are some additional ways we integrate all these ideas into the VCA experience:

• Curriculum aligned field trips and guest speakers

• Etiquette and decorum instruction in all grades

• Nature studies to include outdoor exploration, art, and discovery

• Emphasis on writing in all subject areas

• Communication and interpersonal skills instruction

• A strong phonics base for reading, connection between reading literacy and vocabulary

• Math projects and science experiments

• Robust fine art instruction to include art and music by certified teachers

• Weekly Chapel services to include Praise and Worship

• Service project opportunities

Sources for this page: **https://www.bjupress.com/about/, February, 2022

Questions? Contact the VCA Office by submitting the form below. We look forward to hearing from you.