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Along with math, English, and basic science classes that are necessary in every education, SRVCA is proud to offer a variety of special classes and programs that truly enhance students' learning.
Music & Performing Arts
Katie Hugill leads the Music and Performing Arts Program at SRVCA. Every K-5th grade student participates in a music class twice a week, with an emphasis on vocal learning. Both K-2nd grade and 3rd-5th grade have two musicals per school year - one at Christmas and one in the spring. The 3rd and 4th grades learn about different instruments, with a focus on recorders and percussion. The older elementary grades also study different composers and classical styles of music. In addition to her work with the Elementary grades, Erin also works with the junior high by teaching electives throughout the year. These are generally music and or theater related. The 8th grade play is the final act in the Music and Performing Arts program, directed by Mrs. Warner and staring each 8th grade student.
Fine Arts
The Fine Arts Program at SRVCA helps students to grow as artists and in their knowledge of art. Bill DiMichele visits each Elementary grade every week to lead different art projects that focus on styles, use of color and line, different artists, and different mediums. The Junior High is blessed to have Bill be a part of their curriculum through the elective courses he teaches. In addition, there are occasional special projects that Mr. DiMichele will facilitate around the school (such as banners, hand-ball boards, etc.).
Spanish
Jennifer Whalen teaches basic Spanish to the students in Kindergarten through fifth grade two days a week. Though the focus is mostly on vocabulary and conversations, students are prepared for the more rigorous junior high program. Sixth grade is a transitional year for students and they begin to conjugate verbs and master vocabulary and spelling. Led by Nicole Resendiz, grades 7 and 8 focus on learning the skills accomplished in a High School Spanish I class. By the end of the 8th grade year, students are generally able to move directly into Spanish II and, sometimes, into Spanish III.
Bible
The goal of our K-8 Bible-based program is to teach students what it means to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and have a biblical world view. Studying the scriptures, discussing doctrine, and memorizing scripture are all components which aid in this goal. In addition, classroom discussions and corporate prayer help students understand the importance of fellowship, outreach, and personal growth. Beginning in the primary grades, students review Bible stories which aid in their understanding of who God is and how He shows love to us. By the Jr. High, there is emphasis on living our lives in a way that glorifies God. Missions are part of our K-8 program, as are service hours for middle school students. Comprehensively, students will study the Old and New Testaments with particular study on the life of Christ.
Hands-on Science
The objective for Hands-on Science here at SRVCA is to supplement, enhance, and enrich the classroom science curriculum. Hands-on Science lessons and activities are created for each grade level based on the content of their current science chapter. The elementary focus is physical and life science. Hands-on Science is a wonderful opportunity for our students to tactically explore God's amazing creation. Our lab is well equipped with materials that allow our elementary students to become scientists themselves. Several topics that are covered include plants, oceans, the water cycle, germs, energy, rocks and minerals, the human body, endangered animals, and much more. Your children will love their hands-on experience and will excitedly anticipate this class every other week.
PE/Sports
Elementary grades have Physical Education classes every week. They learn different sports and games, as well as learning about being healthy and fit individuals. Students in Junior High have PE more often and tend to play more competitive games. In addition, every student in 1st through 8th grade goes through the Presidential Physical Fitness Testing, a program designed to ensure that students are active. The skills that are taught in the PE program are a great preparation for students' success in the competitive sports program at SRVCA. Our sports program competes in five different sports in the Bay Area Christian School Athletic League (BACSAL). Bob Shaffer (retired in 2009) established a fantastic program through the years, and the Academy is consistently one of the top performers in the BACSAL.
Library
SRVCA's 12,000 volume library is guided by the words of Philippians 4:8, "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things." When students utilize our library, they can read stories that are noble and praiseworthy, study nonfiction that is true and right and read biographies of admirable men and women. Library classes, led by Gail Brubaker, are designed to equip students to be proficient readers and possess information literacy. Instruction is based on California School Library Association standards. Students are taught how to locate and select books at their reading level so as to encourage enjoyable reading. Reading incentives are provided as well as activities that develop and polish early research skills. Through it all the love of reading, learning and discovery is fostered.
Computers
Charlotte Cassidy is queen of the lab at SRVCA! She keeps a watchful eye on the computer lab and guides Elementary students in their quest for knowledge and skills. Each grade visits the lab two or 3 days a week to practice and master typing, reinforce mathematics and phonics through software, and learn helpful programs such as the Microsoft Suite (Word, Excel, Publisher, etc.). In Junior High, students are offered the opportunity to learn more about digital photography and manipulation through a computer elective class.
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