Dock Viewbook Early Childhood - Grade 8

Early Childhood to Grade Eight

LEARNING FOR LIVES OF PURPOSE

A PIONEER IN EDUCATION: CHRISTOPHER DOCK

Christopher Dock was a compassionate, 18th Century Mennonite educator who pioneered a shift in the philosophy of teaching by combining academics and faith. He emphasized character building, classroom connections, and discussion to encourage a richer educational experience, just as Dock Mennonite Academy continues to do today.

DOCK MENNONITE ACADEMY, an independent school serving students ages three through twelfth grade, provides exceptional academics within an inviting, Christ-centered community.

Students, along with the caring guidance of teachers, family, and church, are encouraged to develop their interests through exploration and inquiry. There is a balanced integration of learning, faith, and life at Dock Mennonite Academy, and it is within this uniquely blended environment that students realize their potential, seek ownership of their faith, and find their place in the world.

LEARNING FOR LIVES OF PURPOSE

D

OCK MENNONITE ACADEMY has taught generations of students to be inquisitive, confident thinkers who lead lives of purpose.

Because Mennonite values are fundamental to a Dock education, students emerge with an understanding of God’s unconditional love, a respect for others, and a humble attitude of service. From the first day of preschool until graduation, each student is supported by a caring community that serves as an extension of family. Teachers take an active role in encouraging participation and collaboration in the classroom as they nurture their students’ diverse gifts and help them find their path in life.

FINDING FULFILLMENT THROUGH ACADEMICS, FAITH, AND SERVICE At DOCK MENNONITE ACADEMY, strong academics are delivered from a faith perspective.

This provides a solid educational foundation upon which all students can build a fulfilling future.

Throughout their years at Dock, students are members of a caring community of positive role models and peers with a similar value system who encourage and support each other in their intellectual and spiritual growth.

DOCK AT A GLANCE

18 Average Class Size 61 Percentage of Students Who Participate in Co-Curricular Activities 14 Subject Areas Art • Bible • Computers Design and Technology Family and Consumer Sciences Health • Language Arts Library • Math • Music Physical Education • Science Social Studies • Spanish 142 Churches Represented 88 Percentage of Students Who Receive Financial Assistance

“ Dock Mennonite Academy works with us as parents and our churches to teach a Christ-centered approach to life. Teachers and staff go beyond expectations not only to ensure academic success, but also to help grow disciples of Christ. One of the greatest blessings to our family has been the relationships our children have formed with teachers and peers—they feel valued.”

DOCK MENNONITE ACADEMY PARENT

ACADEMICS

atmosphere for asking questions. Not only

Dock Mennonite Academy is committed

do students become familiar with the Bible,

to fostering an enthusiasm for learning in

they understand how it applies to their lives.

students from the first day they walk through

They also appreciate hearing about the faith

the door. School-wide, lessons take into account

journeys of others and connect with their

ways students can learn through exploration

peers, building friendships for life.

and inquiry. Dock’s research-based science and math curricula provide hands-on experiments

SERVICE

like making paper, growing tomatoes, and

Beginning in the youngest grades, Dock

dissecting insects. This type of engagement

students learn to put others before themselves

leads to a deeper understanding of the material

through a variety of service projects. Whether

and a self-generated enthusiasm for learning.

it’s collecting mittens for the homeless,

Bible and faith are integrated throughout the

making medical or school kits for children

disciplines.

through Mennonite Central Committee, or filling a shoebox with toys at Christmas, these

FAITH

small acts of kindness play a significant role

Faith is a fundamental part of the educational

in shaping students’ understanding of the

experience at Dock Mennonite Academy.

larger community and the world. Early and

Through opportunities like Chapel, Bible

frequent exposure to serving others and giving

curriculum, morning devotions, prayer

back, accompanied by reinforcement at home

time, worship, and song, students learn how

and in church, encourages students to get

to speak confidently about their faith. The

immersed in their communities and put their

close relationships that develop between

faith into action.

students and teachers provide a comfortable

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES Hands-on learning helps students understand and remember curriculum content, while creating positive memories. Here are a few ways Dock integrates experiential learning:

Retirement Community Visits (Early Childhood) An intergenerational experience, early childhood students visit residents in a local retirement community once a month to make seasonal crafts, sing songs, and recite Bible verses.

Academic Enrichment (Elementary School) Whether it is students from different grade levels being paired together for “reading buddies� in the library or raising chicks as part of the science curriculum, these activities foster

oral presentation; and then dress in character to simulate a wax museum on stage.

Colonial Day (Elementary School) Dressed in colonial attire, students create storefronts reflecting vocations of the era and give explanations of their occupations

a nurturing community of learners.

(blacksmith, printer, furniture maker)

Wax Museum (Elementary School)

culminates in a field trip to Philadelphia.

Students select an influential figure, such as a pioneer, author, scientist, athlete, or inventor; write a research paper; prepare an audiotaped

to parents, teachers, and peers. The year

Science Fair (Middle School) Students select a topic in science that intrigues them, prepare a research paper, design a research board, and present to a panel of judges. Each year, many Dock students continue on to the tri-county and regional levels to present their findings.

Outdoor Classroom (Middle School) Sixth and seventh graders travel to an overnight camp where they spend three days conducting science experiments like testing local water sources. Being outdoors together also provides a special bonding time for students.

A PLACE TO GROW

STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES

healthy and positive school climate. Dock places

Built in 2004, the building and surrounding

a strong emphasis on strengthening friendships

landscape were strategically designed to ensure

and building community across grade levels

every classroom has natural light with a view

with collaborative, partner-based programs as a

of the outdoors. Teachers take advantage

way to build school-wide relationships and form

of outdoor spaces for reading, gardening,

a true community of learners.

and art lessons. The full-service library is equipped with technology to facilitate today’s quick exchange of information, including desktops, Chromebooks, and iPads. A modern auditorium and cafeteria provide valuable gathering places for assemblies and events.

The cafeteria has healthy food options for students and an electronic payment system for parental ease. With the high school campus located only five miles away, traveling between campuses is convenient and allows for frequent collaboration and sharing of resources.

NURTURING ENVIRONMENT At Dock Mennonite Academy, students learn and grow in a nurturing environment

Dock Mennonite Academy is committed to being

surrounded by teachers who are friendly and

financially accessible by awarding more than

supportive, parents who are thoughtful and

$1 million in assistance annually to students and

involved, and peers who inspire and care for

families in need. Churches and congregations also

each other. Everyone works together to foster a

provide additional assistance.

Let Dock Mennonite Academy inspire your child to learn for a life of purpose‌

To learn more about a DOCK MENNONITE ACADEMY education or to join us on a tour of campus, please contact the Admissions Office at admissions@dock.org or 215.362.2675 ext. 106.

EARLY CHILDHOOD TO GRADE EIGHT

420 Godshall Road Souderton, PA 18964 GRADES NINE TO TWELVE

1000 Forty Foot Road Lansdale, PA 19446 WWW.DOCK.ORG