San Jose, CA
Achiever Christian School (Sands Dr.)

School Philosophy of Education

ACS provides a safe, loving environment in which children may develop spiritually, socially, physically and academically in the knowledge of God's word.

Our school serves as an extension of the educational training in the home and the church. 'Train a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not turn from it.' (Proverbs 22:6, NIV)

Our program is based on the following concepts:
- God has created each child uniquely in His image and has given that child special talents which should be developed and enhanced in a manner that is glorifying to God.
- The 'way he should go' is clearly stated in terms of Christian character development as revealed through the Word of God.

Every class follows a biblically based curriculum, which helps the child identify Christ-like characteristics that enhance the quality of life. Among these are reverence to God, love for others, kindness, obedience, patience and honesty.

Each child is encouraged to place his/her faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ for eternal life. 'For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.' - John 3:16 (NIV)

Also, 'If you confess with your mouth `Jesus is Lord' and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.' - Romans 10:9-10 (NIV).

Instructional placement should be determined primarily by a child's developmental level.

A well-structured learning environment is essential to developing good academic skills and in helping children to feel secure and enjoy their school experiences. Children will develop self-discipline and confidence in their own abilities when they are nurtured with love and praise.

Mission Statement

ACS exists to partner with parents to provide an outstanding Christian education that will help students achieve their God-given potential. In challenging and training students to become fully devoted followers of Christ, ACS endeavors to develop a Christian worldview in students through a biblically integrated approach to academic instruction and extra-curricular activities.

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A typical day in Preschool

- Free Play
Upon arrival the children have the freedom to choose any of the offered activities designed to encourage growth in readiness skills:

Rug Toys encourage cooperation, large muscle development, communication and social interaction skills.

Playhouse activities encourage role playing, generate language development, build social skills, teach orderliness, and motivate creative thinking.

Puzzles/Table Games improve dexterity and provide practice with skills such as matching, classifying, and sequencing.

Sensory Activities stimulate thought processes, generate new vocabulary, and increase awareness.

Art Table Creations encourage development of small muscles, expressive language, listening for directions, pure enjoyment of individual expression and experimentation with paint, glue, chalk, crayons, clay, paste, scissors and paper.

- Theme
Children gather on the rug to discuss the weekly theme, sing, exercise, read a story or participate in Show and Tell time with the teacher. The children begin developing some of the most important skills needed in a school setting; concentration and vocabulary development.

- Small/Large Group
Children not only learn and practice new concepts in math, science and phonics but also polish those skills previously introduced. The child will also learn to use a pencil, write letters, numbers and his/her name. These group times also include a break-out session for Music and Spanish.

- Recess
Children develop social skills, stretch and strengthen their large muscles, learn basic safety rules, and continue to grow in compassion for one another during each of their outdoor play periods.

- Snack
Nutritious daily snacks are provided by the school for the children. Parents often send snacks from home for holiday or birthday parties.

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