Valley Christian Academy

Curriculum

CURRICULUM

Curriculum includes the total educational experience provided at Valley Christian Academy. The life of Jesus Christ as revealed in the Bible, and the lives of the staff of our school are very significant influences in what students learn. Teachers strive to teach students to think critically, to analyze, to discern, to critique, and to prepare for a life of learning. The Bible is integrated throughout the entire program forming the foundation upon which we develop a Biblical world view and by which we evaluate all curricula that is used. Textbooks are chosen from a variety of sources, and used as tools to teach concepts or impart information. All textbooks and instructional materials are selected carefully to meet the educational needs and curricular goals of our school. Because textbooks are tools, not the curriculum, students may not cover all topics or complete all assignments in a book assigned to them for the year. Curriculum is dynamic rather than static; therefore we are constantly searching for the best tools which will meet our needs.

POLICY REGARDING CURRICULUM COSTS

When a student is enrolled, VCA orders and pays for a complete set of curriculum for that student for the school year. Consumable books are issued on a “purchased” basis. Non-consumable books are issued on a “rental” basis and must be returned at the end of the school year. Our curriculum in Mathematics and Science are being updated beginning in 2007. As a result of this, a curriculum fee has been implemented for each student and grade level. For 2008 -09 the fees are as follows: K3 - $25.00; K4 - $50.00; K5 - $100.00; Grades 1 to 9 - $200.00. Curriculum is purchased in the summer and the fee is due by August 1st. When students enrol after September, the curriculum cost must be paid at enrolment.

OTHER COSTS

An enrollment/re-enrollment fee is charged each year. Other costs are kept to a minimum. However, certain courses such as Shop, Home Economics, etc. may incur a small fee to cover the cost of materials. Also, students are asked to bring money to cover the cost of special activities such as swimming, skating, and some field trips as they occur.