The Curriculum Process

Although Bible study is a separate subject, it is an integral part of the total curriculum. We believe all true knowledge has its source in God. Therefore, religion courses are viewed as a foundation for the curricula program. These courses include the study of the Bible, God’s dealings with humankind, Seventh-day Adventist beliefs, moral principles, and practical application of these principles to everyday living. Through the integration of faith and learning, we encourage students to form a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

 At the elementary level, the faculty members view the basic skills of learning as processes that logically prepare students for meeting the challenges of junior high courses that have more difficult content. In the primary and intermediate grades, we emphasize reading, mathematics, and language arts skills that help students deal with the problem solving, thinking, writing, and content emphases of the junior high courses at the primary level, instruction focuses on experiential opportunities for science/health and social studies courses. These experiences serve as a prelude to the more demanding experimental and exploratory orientation of junior high courses.
 

Health and physical education instruction progresses from large muscle motor development and basic care of the body to the advanced coordination and sportsmanship required for a variety of recreational activities. Developing lifelong habits of healthful living are major components of the general curriculum.
 
Art, music, library skills, computer literacy, and participation in music and signing groups, enhance our curriculum. They provide students with skills, appreciation for the fine arts, and alternative ways of interacting with their physical, emotional, and social environments.
 
Curriculum policy is developed by the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists, Columbia Union Conference, Allegheny East Conference, and Calvary Adventist School Board. Calvary’s curriculum committee, school administration, and teachers interpret and implement this curriculum.
 
Curriculum guidelines and recommendations for books and materials are provided by the North American Division, the Columbia Union Conference, and the Allegheny East Conference. Calvary Adventist School’s requests for alternative curricula or textbooks are approved by the Allegheny Conference Curriculum Committee and Board of Education.
 
Teachers provide opportunities for students to learn basic skills through cooperative learning, group activities using commercially prepared materials and lessons created by the teachers. The special needs of individual students are assessed by the classroom teacher and other educational professionals. Enrichment and learning assistance professionals assist classroom teachers in meeting student needs.