Middle School
Growing and Flourishing: The Middle Years (GR 6 - 8)
Anyone who has raised a young adolescent knows that he or she is entering a unique period in life, beginning to stretch wings and move towards more independence. Students begin to ask hard questions about life, as well as to search for their place in the world, and in relationships. The middle years are times of incredible growth--physical, spiritual, intellectual, and social. The VCS MS program is designed to review and solidify the skills students have learned in elementary school, but give them the space to explore their talents and discover who God is calling them to be. Along with building a strong core of study and learning skills, students are gently encouraged to begin seeing themselves as responsible leaders.
Features:
- Homeroom teacher who knows her/his students well and is passionate about this age group
- Specialized teachers in PE, Music, Art, languages
- Skill-building in planning, organization and studying
- Increased and graduated independence
- Leadership development and opportunities
- Thoughtful and responsible approaches to integrating technology and learning
- Alpha Course for Youth: An opportunity to explore, challenge and reflect on personal faith
- A large block of time built into the schedule allowing for units that target the needs of the middle year's learner, such as Family Life, Digital Citizenship, independent interest projects
- A disciplined program that builds independence and accountability
- Mini-electives; short-term explorations in the Arts
- Opportunities for integrated learning
- Homework Club to reinforce good learning habits
- Enrichment Clubs intended to encourage students to explore passions, building on their elementary experience
- Grade 8 bridging into the high school years