2026-2027
APPLIED MATH, SCIENCE, & ENGINEERING INSTITUTE Mission: To prepare the next generation of Christian science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) innovators. Key Verse: “If I go up to the heavens, you are there. If I make my bed in the depths, you are there. If I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast” (Psalm 139: 8-9). Facilities: 3D Printer Lab | Agri-BioTech Garden | AMSE Lab | Innovation Center | Machine Shop | Ocean & Innovation Labs | Schmidt-Cassegrain Telescope | FRC Robotics Arena
vcs.net/amse AMSE INSTITUTE CONTACT INFORMATION 100 Skyway Drive, San Jose, CA 95111 | Telephone: 408.513.2400 vcs.net/amse | amse@vcs.net | vcsamse | vcsamse 2
Table of Contents Achievements
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Discover AMSE | Elementary
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Junior AMSE | Junior High
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AMSE Institute | High School
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AMSE High School Participation
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AMSE Requirements
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AMSE Programs
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ACHIEVEMENTS ELEMENTARY & JUNIOR HIGH Arete Math Madness • The Junior High Math Club ranked 13th nationally (2024-25) American Mathematics Competitions 8 (AMC 8) • Two junior high students received Honor Roll of Distinction (top 1% nationally), nine students earned Honor Roll (top 5% nationally), and ten sixth-grade students earned a Certificate of Achievement for scoring higher than 15 on the AMC-8 (2024-25) Math Olympiads for Elementary and Middle Schools (MOEMS) • 81% of participating fifth-grade students and 51% of participating fourth-grade students finished in the top 50% nationally (2025-26) • One fifth-grade student individually placed in the top 2% nationally (2025-26) • One of two participating teams placed in the top 10% nationally (2025-26) • 30% of participating fifth-grade students earned medals (2025-26)
HIGH SCHOOL • First Place Engineering – MATE ROV Warrior Waves, Navigator Division, MATE ROV Monterey Regional Competition (May 2026) • Second Place Overall and Second Place in Engineering Presentation – MATE ROV Warrior Tides, Ranger Division, MATE ROV Monterey Regional Competition (May 2026) • FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) WarriorBorgs Team earned the Impact Award and Dean's List Award at East Bay District Regionals, placed Third at the NorCal Finals, and advanced to the Championships for the fourth consecutive year (2026) • XPRIZE Wildfire Quest – Top Five Finalist in the XPRIZE Wildfire Competition, Autonomous Wildfire Response Track B (2026) • First Place – VCHS Math Team, 2026 Northern California MathLeague.org Competition. The team has been MathLeague National Champions three of the past seven years • XPRIZE Avatar Semifinalist – Avatar Quest, $10M ANA Avatar XPRIZE challenge, developing a system to transport a human presence to a remote location in real-time (Miami, Florida, 2021) • First Place, $800,000 NOAA Bonus Prize – Ocean Quest Team, Shell Ocean Discovery XPRIZE Competition (2019) • Custom Student Experiments Launched to the ISS – aboard SPACEX 24 for 30 days of experimentation in microgravity (2026) • Fourth Place in the World – MATE ROV WarriorTides, 2024 MATE ROV World Championships, for their uniquely designed remotely operated underwater robot • Finalist Distinction – earned by Aeronautics students at the Conrad Challenge Innovation Summit Aerospace & Aviation Division (2024) • First Place VCHS Math Team, American Statistical Association Fall Data Challenge (2026)
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DISCOVER AMSE | ELEMENTARY Discover AMSE is the elementary branch of the AMSE Institute and introduces young learners to the world of math, science, and engineering. Designed to enhance the elementary school’s engaging math and science curriculum, variety of enrichment and after-school offerings spark interest and lay the foundation for future success. AMSE ENRICHMENT CLASSES Agri-Tech (Fourth Grade) Students explore innovative farming methods such as hydroponics and vertical growth towers. Quest for Space International Space Station (Fifth Grade) This program allows students to conduct experiments aboard the International Space Station and analyze the results on Earth.
AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS Agri-Tech (Kindergarten–Second Grade) Cultivate young gardeners’ natural curiosity and wonder while growing healthy habits for life in this hands-on program. Health & Wellness (Second–Fifth Grade) Our Health & Wellness program engages students in learning about the human body and how to care for it through fun, interactive lessons and activities. Math Team (Third–Fifth Grade) Through participation in the Math Team, students gain self-confidence and learn to tackle problems. Mentored by VCHS Math Team students, elementary team members gain new math skills and compete in local Math League tournaments. Ocean Discovery (Kindergarten–Third Grade) Discover what lies beneath the ocean's surface in our Ocean Discovery program. This hands-on experience builds curiosity and inspires a scientific understanding of ocean life. Robotics (Third–Fifth Grade) The RoboQuest program introduces students to the exciting world of robotics through hands-on learning and engaging activities, where they use their skills to build their own robots.
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JUNIOR AMSE | JUNIOR HIGH Junior AMSE gives students access to specialized facilities and opportunities that prepare them for Valley Christian High School AMSE Institute programs. We offer after-school programs and electives that complement the school's math, science, and STEM elective course offerings. JOIN THE JUNIOR AMSE INSTITUTE Members stay current on AMSE news and activities. Students who participate in at least two AMSE programs or electives by the end of eighth grade are presented with an AMSE pin of distinction for VCJH graduation.
AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAMS Artificial Intelligence (AI) This engaging program introduces students to the exciting world of artificial intelligence through hands-on projects, creative problem-solving, and interactive activities. Students explore how AI is used in everyday life while building foundational skills in technology, innovation, collaboration, and ethical thinking. Code Warriors (Explorers and Questers) Students learn the fundamentals of coding languages like C, C++, and Python in Code Warriors Explorers. Code Warriors Questers builds upon that foundation with advanced applications and deeper analysis of each language. Electronics Fundamentals Electronics Fundamentals is a hands-on course that teaches the core principles of analog and digital electronics through practical projects. Health & Wellness Students learn and apply scientific principles to studying and interpreting physical and mental health and disease. Math Team This comprehensive program features advanced-level activities that emphasize critical thinking, problem solving, mathematical concepts, and preparation for high school coursework. Ocean Discovery The Ocean Discovery program immerses marine biology and ocean engineering students through hands-on activities and experiences. RoboQuest Robotics (Explorers and Questers) RoboQuest introduces students to robotics fundamentals, emphasizing construction, coding, and problem-solving skills as they build their own robots and develop and advanced skills.
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AMSE INSTITUTE | HIGH SCHOOL The AMSE Institute provides students with a pipeline of inspiration, instruction, and experiences to help them become successful innovators and world-changers. Students receive unique training from industry professionals, helping them gain real-world experience and become future leaders. Our after-school programs uniquely complement the comprehensive math, science, engineering, and technology courses at VCHS. PROGRAMS The AMSE Institute offers twenty after-school STEM programs for high school students. While some programs require a full-year commitment, many are semester-long programs. Most programs meet one to two days per week. The demand for AMSE programs is high, and the selection process varies by program. We aim to involve as many interested students as possible. Some programs have open enrollment, while placement in competitive, selection-based programs is not guaranteed.
REQUIREMENTS We offer several levels of participation designed to offer distinct pathways for broad involvement and recognize high-achieving students in their respective fields. All incoming students are encouraged to apply for AMSE Membership, as it is required for program participation and will keep students up to date on STEM opportunities throughout the year. Students seeking an in-depth level of participation and graduation recognition should apply to be an AMSE Honors student. The AMSE Honors Fellow program is reserved for eleventh & twelfth grade students only. Please review the AMSE requirements charts on the following pages. AMSE participation requirements are to be completed over a student’s four years of high school and are not required annually.
APPLYING TO THE AMSE INSTITUTE Step One: Apply to become an AMSE Member, AMSE Honors, or AMSE Artist Honors student. Applications are open year-round and can be accessed at vcs.net/amseapply. Step Two: Apply for an AMSE program. Applications for specific programs open each summer and are available for a limited time. Additional application windows will open throughout the year for programs with available space in the following trimester or second semester. Find the applications at vcs.net/amseapply.
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AMSE INSTITUTE | HIGH SCHOOL
AMSE HIGH SCHOOL PARTICIPATION FOUR LEVELS OF INVOLVEMENT AMSE Membership AMSE Membership is open to all VCHS students. AMSE members may apply for and participate in AMSE programs and receive invitations to special events and the AMSE newsletter. AMSE Honors AMSE Honors students enjoy the benefits of AMSE Membership while committing to higher standards in program participation, GPA, and research requirements. Students receive a cord of distinction to wear on graduation day. AMSE Honors Fellows AMSE Honors Fellows experience advanced opportunities designed for outstanding eleventh and twelfth-grade students to work alongside VCS program managers for a unique, year-long learning experience conducting specialty research in a specific field of interest. AMSE Artist Honors Students with a deep passion for both the STEM and artistic fields can apply for the AMSE Artist Honors program. This program allows students to participate in AMSE and Conservatory activities while balancing their schedules. For additional information, visit the Conservatory of the Arts web page at vcs.net/conservatoryapply.
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AMSE REQUIREMENTS AMSE INSTITUTE DISTINCTION REQUIREMENTS Requirement
Members
Honors
Fellow
AMSE-Approved Research Project (see chart below)
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1
1
AMSE Programs
—
1
2
Years of Science
—
4
4
Years of Math
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4
4
GPA
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3.8+
4.0+
Advanced Placement (AP) Courses
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2
4
AMSE RESEARCH PROJECTS AMSE & BEI Programs In-depth research activities • Advanced Aeronautics •
BEI Quest Incubator
•
Health & Wellness (two terms of Physical and/or Mental Health)
•
Health & Wellness – Global Health
•
ISS Research Lab
•
MATE ROV Team
•
Research Fundamentals
•
Robotics FRC RoboQuest
•
XPRIZE Teams
High School Courses Advanced research-based coursework • Anatomy & Physiology Honors •
Advanced Business Honors
•
AP Computer Science Principles
•
Advanced Data Analysis
•
Entrepreneurship Honors
•
Scientific Research
Others Alternate research opportunities • Pre-Approved External Agency Internship •
Synopsys Science & Technology Fair
AMSE ARTIST HONORS AMSE Artist Honors Requirements
Number
Conservatory Declaration of Area of Emphasis
Yes
Years of Science
3
Years of Math
4
AP Courses
2
Discipline-Specific Conservatory Courses
3
Discipline-Specific Conservatory Extra-Curriculars (shows, private lessons, etc.)
4
AMSE Program
1
GPA
3.6 11
AMSE INSTITUTE | HIGH SCHOOL
AMSE PROGRAMS AEROSPACE Explore the exciting world of aerospace engineering through hands-on design, testing, and innovation. Students apply principles of physics, mathematics, and engineering to build and evaluate aerospace systems while tackling real-world challenges. Through collaborative projects, participants develop technical skills in aerodynamics, propulsion, and flight systems. This program is ideal for students interested in aviation, space exploration, and engineering careers.
AGRI-BIOTECH The Agri-Biotech program immerses students in agriculture, biotechnology, sustainability, and technology. With a strong focus on the engineering and design process, this program challenges students to both implement and invent tools that support sustainable agricultural practices. Students engage in hands-on study across several key areas: Biotechnology: Explore plant propagation by producing tissue cultures and understanding genetic applications in agriculture. Hydroponics: Experiment with altering chemical factors essential to plant growth, gaining insights into soil-less farming methods. Statistics & Data Analysis: Evaluate the efficiency of various plant production techniques, using data to drive improvements in agricultural methods. Beyond technical skills, the program emphasizes the ecological impacts of agricultural technologies. Students investigate maintaining off-season plants efficiently and learn how to monitor, optimize, and use recorded data to grow plants that are off season or from regions that are drastically different from the local climate. These explorations build a holistic understanding of the scientific process and apply knowledge gained to real-life scenarios.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) (LEVEL 1 & AI LAB 2) Students are introduced to the fundamentals of artificial intelligence through hands-on projects, research, and real-world applications. Participants explore topics such as machine learning and ethical AI while developing critical-thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
FORENSIC DISCOVERY LAB The Forensic Discovery Lab is designed for students interested in science, criminal investigation, and problem-solving. Through hands-on activities and case studies, students learn practical forensic science skills, including fingerprint analysis, glass analysis, blood analysis, trace evidence, and crime scene investigation techniques. They collaborate to solve mock crime scenes using scientific methods and criticalthinking skills. This engaging program not only introduces students to potential careers in forensic science and criminal justice, but it also enhances their analytical and laboratory skills in a fun, interactive environment.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS Four distinct options are available for involvement in the Health & Wellness program. Each specialized program introduces students to various aspects of physical health, mental health, global health, and emergency medicine and helps students prepare for college programs in the medical field, including allied health (such as physical therapy, dental hygiene, audiology, dietetics). Students will apply biology, chemistry, anatomy, and physiology principles to studying and interpreting human health and disease. Guest speakers and service projects give students opportunities to explore health careers suited to their interests and aptitudes. Physical Health focuses on the history of disease, comparative anatomy, and lifestyle and infectious diseases. Mental Health focuses on addiction, memory, technology, how the brain learns, and when the brain goes wrong. Emergency Medicine teaches the Red Cross of America curriculum for first aid and CPR certification and provides background information to help students understand the best course of action in an emergency. Students who have completed this program are eligible to participate in the Wilderness Emergency Medicine program, preparing them to respond to emergencies in a wilderness environment. Global Health explores worldwide health challenges, teaching students about global diseases, healthcare systems, and the impact of social, economic, and environmental factors on public health.
INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATION The International Space Station (ISS) program offers two distinct participation options. Both teach engineering, circuitry, programming, and data analysis. ISS Space Program: Designed for students interested in space science, this fast-paced, semester-long course includes two to three pre-designed experiments, multiple data uploads to the ISS, and the opportunity for data analysis. Students will analyze experiments on heat, radiation, conduction, and convection and compare the results on Earth and in microgravity. Students receive guided instruction and a Quest for Space kit. ISS Research Lab: This year-long program provides students with the opportunity to work in a team setting to conceive, design, build, test, integrate, and qualify computer-controlled custom science experiments that are launched to the ISS. The experiments are active on the ISS for thirty days. Each experiment module contains a digital camera and a student-programmed microcontroller, and experiment data is sent to Earth for student evaluation. Participation fulfills the AMSE Research Project requirement for AMSE Honors students. Prerequisites include completing the VCJH Space elective, VCHS ISS Space program, or previous VCHS ISS program experience.
MATH TEAM The Math Team is a year-long program that allows students to further their math skills and meet other people who share their love and interest in math. Team members compete in local, national, and international competitions and attend seminars. Students develop skills in collaboration and teamwork, improve their critical thinking, and expand their problem-solving strategies. Qualifying students can participate in the Mu Alpha Theta National Honor Society.
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AMSE INSTITUTE | HIGH SCHOOL
AMSE PROGRAMS CONTINUED MATE ROV Discover ocean engineering through participation in the Marine Advanced Technology Education (MATE) program to apply STEM principles in the exciting field of underwater robotics. Students design and build remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) to tackle missions modeled after real-world scenarios in the ocean workplace. MATE includes annual and regional competitions.
RESEARCH FUNDAMENTALS This program introduces students to foundational techniques and equipment used in life science laboratory practices. It uses cell culture basics as a way to practice and enhance the learned skills. Students learn aseptic technique, culture CHO-K1 mammalian cells, collect and analyze biological data, and complete a mini research investigation.
ROBOTICS RoboQuest: This course in STEM robotics uses a hands-on approach to introduce fundamental robotics concepts, focusing on the construction and programming of individual mobile robots. Students learn programming skills and problem-solving strategies and can design, build, and compete with their very own bot using the VCS proprietary program, RoboQuest. Students compete in a district event in December and an annual championship event at Grand Canyon University. FRC Robotics: The FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) Robotics program focuses on developing skills in software, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer-aided design (CAD). Students participate in the fast-paced FRC competition season, allowing them to compete at the local, regional, and international levels. Participation fulfills the AMSE Research Project requirement for AMSE Honors and Honors Fellow students.
XPRIZE Following the 2019 victory of Team Ocean Quest in the NOAA Bonus Prize round of the $7M Shell Ocean Discovery XPRIZE, VCS has continued to champion student innovation through ongoing participation in XPRIZE competitions. Team Wildfire Quest advanced to the finals; Team Avatar Quest reached the semifinals; and Team Carbon Quest and Team Healthspan Quest ranked among the top 100 teams. Today, VCS students remain at the forefront of global innovation. The Water Quest Team is developing smart, integrated systems to desalinate water for worldwide accessibility and clean water solutions.
At VCS, we’re not just preparing students for the future, we’re helping them shape it. 14
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MISSION STATEMENT Valley Christian Schools’ mission is to provide a nurturing environment offering quality education supported by a strong foundation of Christian values in partnership with parents, equipping students to become leaders to serve God, to serve their families, and to positively impact their communities and the world.
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VISION STATEMENT A world where every student pursues their personal Quest for Excellence™. FOUNDING STATEMENT Valley Christian Schools supports the homes and churches of students in providing an education that is grounded in the Judeo-Christian values of the Bible, as reflected in the life and teaching of Jesus Christ. Valley Christian Schools is committed to a Quest for Excellence™ in all of its educational programs, and provides a comprehensive kindergarten through twelfth-grade curriculum with a rigorous college preparatory program. Firmly founded on Christian values, Valley Christian Schools challenges youth to aspire toward lives of character, service, and influence while pursuing their individual Quests for Excellence. valleychristian Valley Christian Schools (San Jose)
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Elementary (408) 559-4400 | 1450 Leigh Ave, San Jose, CA 95125 Junior High (408) 513-2460 | High School (408) 513-2400 vcs.net | (408) 513-2500 | 100 Skyway Drive, San Jose, CA 95111