CURRICULUM

At VHM Christian, we believe that school is not only an academic program, but a well-rounded educational experience that will lead to a life-long love of learning. We accomplish this by encouraging intellectual curiosity in a variety of forms, from traditional academics to art and music--all in the context of small class sizes and focused, personal attention from our teachers. 

 

Classes also integrate faith as a core part of the curriculum. As a Seventh-day Adventist school, VHM focuses on inviting students to choose Christianity as a way of life. The day begins with a brief morning worship. Bible classes are taught daily and reflect Seventh-day Adventist beliefs. A week of spiritual emphasis, featuring special speakers, is held once each semester. Students are also mentored in character development and ethical discernment in hopes that they will grow to be compassionate, wise, and contributing citizens of society. 

As a result of our deep commitment, students at VHM Christian consistently achieve more than a year's worth of academic growth in all key areas measured on nationally standardized tests.

 

VHM Christian has the blessing of technology on our campus from grades 1-8 we offer one to one laptop program in which students learn keyboarding, internet skills, word processing and applications, presentation software and other integral technology concepts. While technology is integrated into all aspects of our curriculum our teachers choose to limit screen time at school to encourage other important academic areas.

Kindergarten take advantage of classroom iPads.

 

Visit the North American Division of SDA Education web page to learn more about specific technical aspects of Seventh-day Adventist Curriculum.

 

KINDERGARTEN 

Kindergarten offers a gentle transition into elementary school by making learning as a fun adventure. In this first year, art is primary medium of expression and literature-based, thematic instruction builds a love of learning. And the systematic preparation for reading, writing, and math is skillfully woven into the curriculum through creative, hands-on activities. 

 

This philosophy of "learning as a fun adventure" is reflected in the classroom's environment. The walls are lined with student art, there are centers where students can feel comfortable to learn and can read. The Kindergarten playground is self contained separate from the rest of the school with many hands on activities

 

FIRST GRADE

Reading takes center stage in first grade, as students go deeper into the study of phonics. Students begin to read regularly in class, pairing up with reading buddies from the upper grades, and they are also encouraged to read at home with their families. Spelling becomes a regular part of the weekly assignment. 

 

For math, the curriculum takes on a hands-on approach, using a variety of tools to cement core concepts. Students aim to master basic addition and subtraction by the end of the year. 

 

As for the fun side of class, there are plenty of field trips to the library, plays, and farms. Students are engaged in hands on learning adventures and many activities that help them to learn ways to work together with classmates in core learning activities.

 

In first grade, we also begin to offer sensitive and skilled interventions for students with learning differences. 

 

SECOND GRADE 

Second grade continues to build on a solid phonics base, established in first grade for strong spelling and reading skills. As students graduate to more complex reading material, the curriculum actively engages the readers in thoughtful reflection about literature. 

 

In math, students focus on building addition and subtraction skills, along with proficiency in solving word problems.

 

As far as technology, third graders begin using Typing Pal, along with along with other internet based reading and math games.

 

THIRD GRADE 

The world of knowledge and information open up as students use their reading skills to learn about the world. Reading and writing expectations are upgraded with the addition of weekly book reports along with their reading logs. Students are taught how to research, write, and then creatively implement their findings in projects during the course of the year. 

 

In math, the curriculum focuses on basic multiplication and mastering the word problem. Students are also taught how to work together in group projects in an effort to teach collaboration, trust, and respect. 

 

Every other year students have the opportunity to spend a week at Rock and Water, a 49er history trip to learn about California's gold rush days.

 

FOURTH GRADE 

History comes alive in the fourth grade as students dive into lessons about geography, U.S. states, and more. Reading and writing expectations increase in their challenge as students explore nine themes throughout the year in the Pathways Language Arts curriculum. Students are taught how to research, write, and then creatively implement their findings in a final history project that is the highlight of the year. 

 

In math, the curriculum focuses on mastering multiplication and division and applying it to everyday life situations. 

 

Every other year 4th graders have the opportunity to spend a week with the third grade class at Rock and Water, a 49er history trip to learn about California's gold rush days.

 

FIFTH GRADE

Along with continued progress in the basic academic arenas--such as reading and math--fifth grade dives deeper into science. During the year, students study animal and plant cells, animal classification, and also the human reproductive system.

 

In the spring, students take a three-day trip to Alliance Redwoods, located in Sonoma county. While there, the class will investigate the rich and diverse natural history of the Northern California coastal environment.

In social studies, students will focus on U.S. history, from Native Americans to World War II.

 

In fifth grade, students are taught to think, not just repeat facts, as they develop an enduring love of learning and inquiry.

 

SIXTH GRADE 

In sixth grade, students hone their skills in writing and public presentation by learning how to critically analyze literature and participate in class discussions. Students are expected to actively own and defend their perspectives on a range of subjects, while respecting and valuing the input of others.

 

Lessons are also presented in a variety of formats to ensure active learning for many different styles of learners—including through technology, project-based learning, classroom presentations, and music. The goal is to encourage character growth, instill a love for learning, and to build classroom community. 

 

Sixth graders also are blessed to attend the Alliance Redwoods Outdoor Education Adventure in the spring with the Fifth graders.

 

SEVENTH GRADE 

Outdoor education kicks it up a notch in seventh grade. Students can expect to combine learning with adventure by going on trips that involve backpacking, camping, and a week in Camp Wawona Outdoor School in the beautiful Yosemite National Park. 

 

Beyond the outdoor learning and standard academic curriculum, students in seventh grade strengthen their self-management skills and organizational abilities. There is a strong emphasis in taking responsibility for their own learning and in meeting deadlines in a timely fashion. By the time the students complete seventh grade, the goal is to have graduated a more mature and responsible teenager.

 

EIGHTH GRADE 

In the final year at VHM Christian, the goal is to prepare students for entry into high school. There is a strong emphasis on writing across the curriculum, practical and theoretical application of math, appreciation of History, and focus on analytical and literary abilities. Students become skilled users of technology tools, as they use laptop computers daily.

 

Field trips and excursions continue in eighth grade with trips to The SF Academy of Sciences, Monterey Bay Aquarium, SF Symphony, San Jose Tech Museum, The DeYoung Museum, The Legion of Honor, Bean Hollow Beach trips, and more!