Electives

Art class allows students to explore and appreciate different forms of art.  Students are able to learn and develop their artistic abilities in both two- and three-dimensional forms through various media including painting, charcoal, graphite pencils, and clay.

Music class gives students the foundations of music history, theory, and performance. They survey different genres of music and learn skills in recorders, keyboarding, chimes, and vocal performance. These periods serve as the foundation for our seasonal concerts. Our students are also given the platform to compete with the New York State School Music Association.

Our physical education classes are designed to teach students coordination and teamwork. Elementary level focuses on basic skills, while middle school classes survey different sports. Every grade takes a class twice a week.

Beginning in first grade, students develop the ability to communicate fluently in Spanish. Teachers focus on reading, writing, listening, and speaking, with an emphasis on the cultural context of the Spanish language. Students can expect to place into AP level high school Spanish upon graduation.

Students beginning in 3rd grade learn about the tools of technology. Teachers emphasize that technology is a tool to be used and a platform to steward, but not a playground or an alternate reality. Students develop proper netiquette and understand the importance of being godly digital citizens. They develop proficiency in typing and coding, as well as Google Docs and Slides.

Each middle school class uses Google Classroom as a central platform for student-teacher communication and academic assignments.

Advanced art enhances the skills and opportunities of gifted art students. Special occasions allow them to publish their artwork in more public forums.

Students will use film as a lens to view and understand the world around them.  Film is a medium that sheds light on current events and deepens understanding of historical events. Students will be challenged to think about the world outside their own “sphere”.  Students will be exposed to different languages, cultures, and their people through documentaries and foreign films.  Students also explore different genres of film, from documentaries to musicals. When necessary, they will be asked to hand in assignments based on relevant short readings or news articles, in addition to viewing films.  This elective supports topics and content explored in History and Literature classes.

This elective will provide students with a biblical understanding concerning the topic of money, a brief history of money, and introduce principles around budgeting, saving and investing.

This year, students will be given meaningful opportunities to deepen their understanding of music and actively apply the skills they’ve been developing in class. Through hands-on practice, collaborative rehearsals, and guided instruction, they’ll explore the beauty of musical expression and the discipline of performance.

One exciting highlight is our handchime ensemble, which will have the opportunity to perform at school concerts and graduation ceremonies. These performances not only showcase the students’ growth and dedication, but also serve as a joyful offering—bringing beauty, harmony, and worship into our community gatherings.

We look forward to seeing our students grow in confidence, creativity, and spiritual awareness as they use their gifts to glorify God through music.

The health and etiquette elective grows students in proper nutrition, proper social deportment, and other positive life habits.

This year, our students will embark on a rich and exciting journey into Japanese culture. Through hands-on activities, thoughtful discussions, and creative exploration, they’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and depth of Japan’s traditions and way of life.

We’ll begin by learning basic Japanese language skills, including hiragana and katakana—the foundational writing systems. Students will build vocabulary and practice forming simple sentences, opening the door to meaningful communication and cultural connection.

Beyond language, we’ll explore Japan’s vibrant customs, fascinating history, and artistic expressions—from ancient tea ceremonies and calligraphy to modern pop culture and design. We’ll also dive into the world of Japanese cuisine, discovering the stories and values behind beloved dishes like sushi, miso soup, and mochi.

Throughout the year, I look forward to guiding students as they discover not only the uniqueness of Japanese culture, but also the universal themes of respect, creativity, and community that transcend borders.

This elective is designed to provide a foundational understanding of the history of liturgical dance ministry, basic movement & an understanding of the value of praising the Lord in the dance.

This elective course invites students to explore the art of communication and performance through the lens of Christian values. Students will strengthen their public speaking skills and build confidence as they engage in creative writing, develop original monologues, and collaborate to compose and perform skits and short plays.

Through guided instruction, students will learn techniques for effective expression, voice projection, stage presence, and body language while also practicing active listening and respectful peer and teacher feedback. Christ-centered integration will be woven throughout the course, encouraging students to use their gifts of communication to glorify God, uplift and encourage others, and reflect biblical principles of truth, encouragement, and integrity.

By the end of the semester, students will:

• Gain confidence in speaking before an audience.
• Develop and perform original written work, including monologues, skits, and/or short plays.
• Collaborate with peers to creatively express ideas that align with Christian values.
• Recognize how communication and drama can be used as a tool to share God’s truth and build up the Body of Christ.

This elective course is open to our 7th and 8th graders. It is designed to introduce students to the art and craft of yearbook productions. A yearbook elective is a special class offered to students who are interested in designing and producing their school’s yearbook. It provides a hands-on opportunity to learn about various aspects of publishing, including graphic design, photography, writing, and teamwork. Students in this elective work together to create a memorable record of the school aspects of yearbook creation, including photography, design, layout, writing and editing.