Valley Christian Junior High Viewbook by Valley Christian Schools

2026-2027

WE ARE WA Lead Serve Impact 2

/ The Warrior Experience

/ Meet Our Principal

/ Academics Courses

/ K-12 Specialized Programs Junior Applied Math, Science, & Engineering (AMSE) Explore Business, Entrepreneurship, & Innovation (BEI) Junior Conservatory of the Arts Athletics

ARRIORS. 22 / Spiritual Formation Faith Biblical Unity Wellness

28 / Student Life 30 / Become a Warrior Apply Campus Visit Information Virtual Tour

JUNIOR HIGH

WARRIOR EX VCS VISION

VCS MISSION 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.

1960

A world where every student pursues their personal Quest for Excellence.TM

INTEGRATION OF FAITH AND ACADEMICS

Valley Christian Schools’ story began in 1956 during a Bible study hosted by Bud and Barbara Callisch. There, David and Edie Wallace prayed and discussed the possibility of creating a Christian school dedicated to a nurturing Christ-centered environment and a curriculum that integrates biblical principles. The school opened its doors in 1960 at Los Gatos Christian Church.

A hallmark of Valley Christian Schools is the intentional integration of faith with academics. Academic programs and thoughtful conversations work together to help students incorporate their Christian faith into every aspect of their education. This comprehensive approach equips our students with the knowledge, skills, and values to excel in the next phase of their educational journey as they navigate a dynamic world.

ENROLLMENT | 650

American Indian

Average Class Size

Asian

41.3%

Black or African American

3.5%

Caucasian

21.1%

26:1

Filipino

12:1 4

Student/Faculty Ratio

0.2%

1.4%

Hispanic or Latino

7.2%

Indian

9.8%

Mixed Ethnicities

10.4%

Pacific Islander

1.2%

Prefer Not to Answer

4.1%

Based on K-12 2026-27 enrollment information.

FOUNDING YEAR

PERIENCE COURSE OFFERINGS OUR CAMPUS The Skyway Campus features some of the finest state-of-the-art facilities in the Bay Area, which are incorporated into a secure learning environment. Students can access a biosafety lab, piano labs, two athletic stadiums, a recording complex, an observatory, two gyms, a kiln, ceramic rooms, a nanotechnology and microscopy lab, a black box theatre, the Student Life Center, the Human Performance Center, the main theatre, and an Olympic-sized swimming pool.

Total Courses of Study

52 Electives

ACCREDITATION & RECOGNITION Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)

WARRIOR MASCOT Walley the Warrior is Valley Christian Schools’ official mascot, named by our students after our founder, David Wallace. You can catch Walley at our sporting events or promoting our student-run store, Walley’s.

Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) U.S. Department of Education - National Blue Ribbon School

3 APPROACH

VCS is celebrated for its exceptional academic programs that merge a nurturing environment and rigorous standards with a strong Christian foundation, equipping students for success in higher education and life. We use a unique educational framework, the A3 approach, which stands for Academic Achievement, Artistic Beauty, and Athletic Distinction. This holistic model aims to develop well-rounded students who excel not only in their studies but also in their creative and physical pursuits.

Academic Achievement

Artistic Beauty

Athletic Distinction

ROWTH • PASSION 6

MEET OUR P R I N C I PA L It is my delight to serve as the junior high principal at Valley Christian Schools. Over the years, I have taught both junior high and high school and am passionate about guiding students on their educational path. When I first arrived at VCJH, I began as a teacher and eventually moved into the administration. It has been a blessing to be involved at this school as we influence the next generation on their Quest for Excellence. Our school is a place of discovery filled with joy and laughter. In junior high, students develop valuable skills, cultivate rich friendships, and deepen their understanding of the world. Our dedicated faculty and staff guide and support students throughout this journey, fostering a safe and engaging atmosphere that encourages exploration and personal growth. We are committed to providing an inspiring and interactive learning environment. Believing in the importance of a wellrounded education, we help our students access a range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and athletic programs to explore their interests and talents outside the classroom. This balanced educational approach motivates students and sparks curiosity. Our faculty and staff strive to model Jesus’ life as we guide students on their spiritual journey. We emphasize character development and spiritual formation, instilling in our students the Way of the

Warrior, which embodies values such as wisdom, honor, sacrifice, and courage. Through our strong Christian foundation, we encourage students to deepen their relationship with God, embrace their unique gifts, and use them to positively impact the world around them. We value your partnership and encourage open dialogue. Building community offers the opportunity to bolster student confidence and increase student achievement. Together, we will create a nurturing and dynamic educational experience where students can flourish academically, grow personally, and deepen their faith. Welcome to Valley Christian Junior High! Mr. Eric Maxwell Principal Valley Christian Junior High School

ADMINISTRATION Principal, Mr. Eric Maxwell, emaxwell@vcs.net, (408) 513-2463 Vice Principal, Mrs. Shari Gambello, sgambello@vcs.net, (408) 513-2462 Dean of Students, Mr. Steve Parmenter, sparmenter@vcs.net, (408) 513-2482

ACADEMICS VCJH is an academically challenging yet nurturing learning environment where all subjects are taught comprehensively. Emphasis is placed on developing effective study skills and academic discipline to prepare students for more advanced academics. Additionally, co-curricular programs through the Applied Math, Science, and Engineering Institute (AMSE), Business, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation (BEI), and the Conservatory of the Arts, enrich students’ God-given talents, training them for the extensive college preparatory program at Valley Christian High School.

SCHOLARS CREATORS 8

NWEA MAP GROWTH ASSESSMENT SCHOOL/SUBJECT

6TH GRADE

7TH GRADE

8TH GRADE

VCS Math

90%

92%

89%

CA Public School Math

40%

VCS English Language & Literacy

81%

83%

CA Public School English Language & Literacy

52%

VCS Science

82%

79%

CA Public School Science

Not Tested

29%

Percent of students at or above average MAP RIT scores. VCJH admits students with a wide range of academic abilities, prioritizing a diverse student body representing many talents.

COURSES CORE CLASSES All students take core classes in Bible, English, Math, Physical Education, Science, and History.

HONORS CLASS OFFERINGS Many students take multiple honors courses during junior high, fulfilling prerequisites that prepare them for accelerated courses at Valley Christian High School. •

English 7 Honors

•

English 8 Honors

•

Algebra 2 Honors

•

Spanish 1 Honors View Online Course Catalog at

vcs.net/jhcoursecatalog

ACADEMICS ELECTIVES In addition to strong core subjects, students select from a wide range of exciting electives.

Junior AMSE Applied Technology 3D Animation 3D Animation II 3D Design + Print 3D Game Design App Development Intro to Technology (required course) Engineering Project Lead the Way: Design & Robotics Project Lead the Way: Environmental Science Project Lead the Way: Medicine & Technology Project Lead the Way: Space & Electricity Other AMSE Electives Investigative Science Intro to Logic & Reasoning Ocean Discovery

Introductory BEI

Creative Design Thinking Explore Entrepreneurship Scribbles Startup Lab: Design, Make, & Sell Edible Garden Lab: Grow, Assemble, & Share

Junior Conservatory of the Arts Dance Arts Dance for Stage The Company Junior Warriors Hip Hop Crew

Music Arts Intro to Band Band I, II Intro to Choir Choir I Intro to Drums Drums I, II Intro to Piano Piano I, II Intro to Strings Strings I, II Theatre Arts Intro to Drama Advanced Drama Visual Arts Intro to Art Foundations Intro to Clay Projects Clay Projects II

Additional Electives

Campus Leadership Community Outreach Leadership Debate Leadership & Athletic Performance Public Speaking Beginning Spanish Spanish I Honors Study Hall Teacher Aide (TA) Yearbook

K-12 SPECIAL PROGRAMS Our A3 programs—Academic Achievement, Artistic Beauty, and Athletic Distinction— offer an educational experience designed to develop students’ diverse talents and prepare them for future success. These specialized programs ensure a balanced education fostering academic rigor, artistic creativity, and athletic prowess, all within a nurturing Christian environment.

IZED ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT We are committed to providing an academic curriculum that prepares students for higher education and lifelong learning. This includes a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education and an extensive Business, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation (BEI) department. OR STUDENT These academic programs fosterALUMNI critical thinking, problem STORY solving, and a deep understanding of core subjects.

ARTISTIC BEAUTY Recognizing the importance of the arts in cultivating creativity and self-expression, we offer comprehensive programs in visual arts, music, theatre, dance, and digital media. Students participate in performances, exhibitions, and competitions, allowing them to explore and develop their artistic talents. The school’s facilities and faculty support a high level of artistic instruction and experience.

ATHLETIC DISTINCTION Our athletics program provides students with exceptional opportunities to excel in sports, focusing on developing physical fitness, teamwork, leadership, and sportsmanship. With state-of-the-art facilities and a wide range of sports teams, we encourage students to pursue athletic excellence and achieve their personal best.

STUDENT STORY

My A 3 extracurriculars helped uncover new areas and develop interests around topics I didn’t have experience with. The teachers are very knowledgeable and energetic, making it fun to learn new life skills. These classes have forced me to get out of my comfort zone, and even though some of them were challenging, I was able to push through and learn a lot. ~Aaron

JUNIOR AMSE Applied Math, Science, & Engineering

The Junior Applied Math, Science, and Engineering (AMSE) Institute provides students with incredible facilities and unique opportunities to inspire future mathematicians, scientists, and engineers while preparing them for high school.

AMSE REQUIREMENTS Incoming students who want to expand their learning and receive hands-on STEM training are encouraged to apply to AMSE. There are two distinct pathways for Junior AMSE involvement: JUNIOR AMSE MEMBERSHIP: Members stay current on AMSE news and activities with no obligation to participate. Students may join at any time. Members are eligible to participate in AMSE after-school programs. JUNIOR AMSE DISTINCTION: Students who complete the qualifications will be presented with the AMSE distinction graduation pin. Students must complete one of these paths: • •

Two AMSE programs Two STEM electives

•

One AMSE program and one elective

JUNIOR AMSE PROGRAMS Math The Math department provides a comprehensive program encompassing all ability levels from grades six through eight. We are pleased to offer advanced-level courses at every grade level, with all math courses emphasizing critical thinking, problem solving, mathematical concepts/applications, and preparation for high school mathematics. Science The science curriculum reaches students just beginning to explore the field to those with exceptionally advanced scientific minds. Students can analyze DNA, participate in the national eCYBERMISSION competition, and identify solutions to erosion problems on campus. Classroom Electives We offer several exciting and challenging electives, including Investigative Science, Logic and Reasoning, Ocean Discovery, and Project Lead the Way (engineering).

K-12 SPECIALIZED PROGRAMS JUNIOR AMSE EXTRACURRICULARS Artificial Intelligence (AI) The AI program invites students to embark on hands-on adventures with Micro:bit equipment, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills as they learn key AI and machine learning concepts and apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. Code Warriors (Explorers and Questers) Code Warriors is a dynamic coding program designed to grow with your skills. Through the Explorers and Questers programs, students are introduced to the fundamentals of C, C++, and Python, exploring each language’s structure, uses, and strengths, and building on that knowledge with advanced concepts, algorithm development, and realworld projects that challenge and inspire more experienced coders. Electronics Fundamentals Electronics Fundamentals is a hands-on course that introduces students to the fundamentals of analog and digital electronics through practical, real-world projects. Students learn to wire outlets, switches, motion detectors, doorbells, and appliance plugs, and to build LED arrays, LCD display systems, and solar battery chargers. Health & Wellness Discover the science behind physical and mental health. Students explore health and disease while gaining hands-on learning. Math Team Build math skills, connect with like-minded peers, and compete locally. Students grow in teamwork, critical thinking, and problem solving. Ocean Discovery Delve into marine biology with the Ocean Discovery program, using hands-on activities, immersive experiences, and maintaining and building aquariums in the Ocean Lab. RoboQuest Robotics (Explorers and Questers) Jumpstart a robotics journey with RoboQuest! Through the Explorers and Questers programs, students learn robotics fundamentals through practical construction, problem solving, and assembling a bot. Questers will strengthen their skills by advancing coding techniques and upgrading bots to master additional tasks and challenges. Scan the QR codes below to access an in-depth overview of each program.

AMSE Lookbook vcs.net/amselookbook

AMSE Website vcs.net/ jhamse

7 Areas of Study

3rd Place NorCal Math League Champions

400+ Junior AMSE Students

EXPLORE BEI

Business, Entrepreneurship, & Innovation The Explore Business, Entrepreneurship, and Innovation (BEI) program empowers junior high students, each uniquely gifted, to discover and explore their creative potential and capacity to make a meaningful impact. Students develop creative-thinking, problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills through various learning opportunities inside and outside the classroom. Explore BEI introduces the concepts of entrepreneurship, grounded in biblical principles, through hands-on, project-based learning.

ACADEMIC ELECTIVES Creative Design Thinking The first in the entrepreneurial electives series, Creative Design Thinking introduces students to the core problem-solving approach at the heart of entrepreneurship and innovation. Students become creative problem solvers through the design-thinking process, including empathy, ideation, prototyping, and testing. They develop resilience, adaptability, and perseverance by embracing failure as a valuable part of innovation. Explore Entrepreneurship Drawing on insights from startups and social entrepreneurs, this elective combines real-world case studies with hands-on, mentor-guided projects that challenge students to solve authentic problems. Students strengthen teamwork, learn to give and receive constructive feedback, and gain practical experience transforming ideas into meaningful, real-world ventures. Scribbles Startup Lab: Design, Make, & Sell Building on the Explore Entrepreneurship elective and after-school program, this course allows students to operate a real on-campus business selling products such as stickers, tote bags, and t-shirts at school and pop-up events. Students engage in all aspects of small business operations, including idea development, product design, marketing, sales, and performance analysis, gaining hands-on experience in running and improving a functioning enterprise. Edible Garden Lab: Grow, Assemble, & Share Students explore how food moves from seed to the table and to the marketplace in this yearlong elective. Through hands-on stewardship of the BEI Edible Garden and hydroponic farm, students grow vegetables and fruit, prepare simple, nutritious food items to share, and take to market. With an emphasis on nutrition and healthy eating, students are introduced to the broader food system, and explore food preparation, product development, cost considerations, and what it takes to bring food offerings to their community.

K-12 SPECIALIZED PROGRAMS ENTREPRENEURIAL MINDSET EXPLORATION THROUGH CO-CURRICULAR PROGRAMS Intro to DECA Junior high students are introduced to the world of business, marketing, entrepreneurship, and leadership through hands-on activities and team challenges. Inspired by the high school DECA program, students will practice creative problem-solving, develop business ideas, build presentation skills, and gain confidence through mini-competitions and real-world business simulations. Money $marts High school students from the Startup Incubator program teach junior high students the fundamentals of personal finance and stewardship. Through an age-appropriate, interactive curriculum, students learn essential money management skills such as budgeting, saving, and responsible decision-making. Explore Entrepreneurship This nine-week program gives students an accessible introduction to entrepreneurship. Through hands-on experiences in brainstorming, market research, prototyping, and pitch development, students learn how to take a business idea from concept to final presentation. Startup Sprint Led by high school Startup Incubator mentors, this five-week program gives students a quick introduction to the entrepreneurial process of identifying real-world problems, developing solutions, defining target markets, and learning to prototype. Students gain practical experience in building and pitching ideas with purpose and clarity. Idea to Prototype Students explore design thinking and introductory engineering principles as they learn how to turn ideas into tangible prototypes, or minimum viable products (MVPs). Working alongside high school student innovators, they develop creative problem-solving skills and gain hands-on experience in building and refining physical products.

1000+

Stickers & Digital Architect This coding program empowers junior high students to bring their ideas to life 500+ T-Shirts by designing and building their own websites. In a supportive, hands-on environment Sold Through led by high school Startup Incubator students, participants learn foundational Scribbles, Inc. programming skills while developing creativity, logic, and digital literacy.

FACILITIES BEI Center for Faith Driven Entrepreneurship | BEI Edible Gardens | Innovation Lab | Walley’s Student Store

60% Student Enrollment

Scan the QR codes below to access an in-depth overview of each program.

6+ BEI Lookbook vcs.net/beilookbook

BEI Website vcs.net/jhbei

After-School Programs

JUNIOR CONSERVATORY The Junior Conservatory invites young artists to further develop their God-given talents with a full range of visual and performing arts offerings. In a program of unmatched quality and breadth, it provides the foundational training required for successful and seamless matriculation into the high school Conservatory of the Arts.

JUNIOR CONSERVATORY HIGHLIGHTS • • •

•

School-day courses in music, art, theatre, and dance Unique performance opportunities in outstanding venues, including Disneyland and the professional stage of the California Theatre in downtown San Jose An abundance of exceptional facilities, including a dance studio, piano lab, rehearsal hall, main stage theatre, a black box theatre, and a ceramics studio, in addition to practice suites, recording facilities, specially designed music classrooms, and the Student Life Center After-school private lessons with expert instructors

DANCE ARTS The Dance Arts Department welcomes students of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced dancers. Students can join The Company, a competitive dance team that performs at regional competitions and premier venues. Through training in jazz, ballet, hip hop, world dance, lyrical, and contemporary styles, students develop technique, artistry, creativity, discipline, and collaboration while building a strong foundation for future opportunities.

MUSIC ARTS The Music department provides beginner through advanced-level instruction in strings, band, percussion, piano, and choir. Students have the opportunity to travel overnight to take part in statewide music competitions and festivals, and to perform in high-caliber concert venues.

VISUAL ARTS The Visual Arts department inspires young artists with instruction in painting, drawing, and ceramics in state-of-the-art facilities. Students share their work at art shows and festivals.

K-12 SPECIALIZED PROGRAMS THEATRE ARTS Theatre Arts introduces students to all aspects of theatre, including performance and technical theatre, with studies in acting, voice, movement, technical design, and production. The program cultivates a love for theatre and encourages students to enjoy the process. Recent Shows Disney’s The Lion King, The Sound of Music, High School Musical Jr., The Bully Plays, The Secret Case of Sherlock Holmes, Thoroughly Modern Millie, Outrageous Fortunes, Little Women, Bye Bye Birdie, Legally Blonde Jr., The Good Doctor, Fractured Fairytales, Willy Wonka Jr., Footloose Youth Edition, Newsies Jr., The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, and Seussical Jr.

STEAM ODYSSEY Science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics (STEAM) Odyssey teaches students how to harness and unleash their innate creativity, enabling them to become adept problem solvers. Imagine the intimidation of being confronted with a challenge that demands an innovative solution. Now, envision fearlessly tackling that problem. That confidence and problem-solving ability are precisely what participants gain. STEAM Odyssey emphasizes teamwork, budgeting, time management, public speaking, and other essential skills. The Conservatory partners with Odyssey of the Mind, fostering the growth of students as both individual and collaborative learners, empowering them to realize their potential.

Scan the QR codes below to access an in-depth overview of each program.

Conservatory Lookbook vcs.net/conservatorylookbook

Conservatory Website vcs.net/jharts

30+

Jr. Conservatory Course Offerings

Annual Performances

All-State Honor Members

ATHLETICS Physical Education & Sports

With twenty-five teams across thirteen sports, we compete at the highest athletic level in Santa Clara County. Our coaches are dedicated to exemplifying Christian values both on and off the field, preparing emerging student-athletes to become community leaders.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION The Physical Education (PE) program empowers all students to maintain a lifelong love of regular physical activity as a cornerstone for a healthy, productive, and fulfilling life. We believe a physically educated student engages in activities, upholds high character, appreciates physical literacy, and lays the groundwork for healthy choices. Students enjoy dynamic PE sessions every other day, experiencing diverse sports and activities. •

Aerobics

•

Pickleball

•

Badminton

•

Soccer

•

Basketball

•

Softball

•

Cooperatives

•

Swimming

•

Flag Football

•

Track & Field

•

Focus on Fitness

•

Ultimate Frisbee

•

Handball

•

Volleyball

•

Hockey

AFTER-SCHOOL ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE Students can sign up for athletic performance sessions that occur throughout the school year. These sessions improve power, strength, and athletic performance in all areas of sports.

K-12 SPECIALIZED PROGRAMS SPORT TEAMS FALL Boys’: Baseball Training, Flag Football Girls’: Golf, Softball, Volleyball Co-Ed: Cross Country* WINTER Boys’: Basketball Girls’: Basketball Co-Ed: Wrestling SPRING Boys’: Golf, Soccer, Volleyball Girls’: Soccer, Volleyball Co-ed: Tennis,* Track & Field,* Water Polo *Non-cut sports

gowarriors.net Scan the QR codes below to access an in-depth overview of each program.

Athletics Lookbook vcs.net/athleticslookbook

Athletics Website vcs.net/jhathletics

335

Athletes

Championship Wins in Girls Soccer ESAL

Sports

SPIRITUAL FOR We are passionate about helping our community grow in its relationship with God utilizing an intentional pathway called Spiritual Formation. Through interactions with Christian teachers, mentors, campus pastors, and biblical teachings, students gain meaningful life experiences. These experiences help them thoughtfully begin to answer questions like, “Who is God?” and “How am I developing a relationship with Him?”

WAY OF THE WARRIOR The goal of Spiritual Formation is to point people to Jesus, fulfill God’s call through education, and aim to reach Silicon Valley and beyond. Our well-rounded education extends beyond classrooms and test scores, integrating character and identity formation into all academic pursuits. In 2022, VCS launched an initiative focused on developing faith, character, and virtues. We call it the Way of the Warrior. The Way of the Warrior ethos is built on four virtues: •

Wisdom: Pursue wisdom in education (Proverbs 1:7).

•

Honor: Honor one another above yourselves (Romans 12:10).

•

Sacrifice: Seek the heart of Christ (Philippians 2:2-8).

•

Courage: Embrace resilience (Philippians 1:20).

These virtues provide a foundation for students and help shape the VCS community. Imagine the impact of a Warrior Nation that demonstrates wisdom, honor, courage, and sacrifice in all thoughts, words, actions, and relationships. We believe the Way of the Warrior can shape how we lead, serve, and impact our world.

RMATION STUDENT STORY

Multiple Nonprofits Supported Including CityTeam

Students Volunteering in Public Schools

Week Discipleship Track

The sense of community at Valley has impacted my life in that they never give up on ensuring that students have a healthy and strong mental health. The community of Valley is a safe place to go and express what is going on in my life. ~Nicholas

Scan the QR codes below to access an in-depth overview of Spiritual Formation.

SFO Lookbook vcs.net/sfolookbook

SFO Website vcs.net/spiritualformation

CULTIVATE LOVE 24

FAITH We shape identity, purpose, and belonging through community building, service-learning, and practical faith connections. Interactions with mentors, pastors, and biblical teachings weave faith with social and emotional well-being. Students learn at a young age how to demonstrate God’s love. We encourage them to serve, inspire, and motivate others on and off our campus in their everyday lives. Through action and love, students seek to advance the Lord’s Kingdom with the redemptive power of the Gospel to transform our communities and the world.

FAITH CURRICULUM Students are required to take yearly Bible classes. The curriculum focuses on the Trinity: God the Father (sixth grade), God the Son (seventh grade), and God the Holy Spirit (eighth grade).

WARRIOR TIME OFFERINGS The Spiritual Formation team offers Warrior Time Bible studies for students to connect with staff and peers, fostering relationships and spiritual growth. These gender-specific groups meet on Thursdays.

SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES Students serve through the following programs: •

Operation Christmas Child

•

Community Outreach Fellowship

•

CityTeam

•

Leadership and student-led initiatives promoting worship, prayer, and service on campus

SPIRITUAL FORMATION CHAPEL Weekly chapels provide faith encouragement through music, games, conversations, and guest speakers. Biannual Spiritual Emphasis Weeks, various Bible studies, and Christian clubs further enhance faith experiences.

DISCIPLESHIP TRACK This optional eight-week course equips students to grow in their relationship with Jesus. Not only does it help them connect to a community, but it also helps them explore the following topics: •

How to read the Bible

•

How to find a church

•

Why it is essential to serve

•

How to share your testimony

•

Why worship matters

BIBLICAL

UNITY “There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and female. For you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28).

We believe that true belonging is rooted in the heart of God’s design. Guided by biblical principles of justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion, we are committed to honoring every individual as a unique image-bearer of Jesus Christ. Embracing the beautiful tapestry of God’s kingdom with its many cultures, people groups, and ethnic identities, we strive to reflect the unity in Christ Jesus. Ethnic diversity is a beautiful part of God’s original and eternal design for humanity, reflecting His glory and deepening our understanding of who He is. Biblical unity is rooted in Jesus’ greatest commandment: to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbor as ourselves (Mark 12:28–33). True diversity, equity, and inclusion are made possible only through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ and the truth of Scripture.

vcs.net/biblicalunity

FOUR CORE BIBLICAL UNITY PRINCIPLES LOVE: Remember that true unity flows from Christ’s redemptive work. When we see every person as God’s image-bearer, it transforms how we handle conflict, discipline, and differences (Genesis 1:27). CELEBRATE: Move beyond tolerance to actively honoring the rich tapestry of cultures, abilities, and backgrounds God has woven into our community (Galatians 3:28). CULTIVATE: Intentionally build bridges of understanding, partnering with families to create environments where everyone belongs (Philippians 2:3-4). RECONCILE: Pursue peace and forgiveness because Christ first forgave us. By God’s mercy, we can equip our students to pursue justice and healing in a fractured world, addressing real issues like racism and injustice with grace (Matthew 5:9). We cultivate biblical unity through joyful cultural celebrations, family support, spiritual formation, community dialogue, and Christ-centered education. Our goal is to reflect the eternal reality of God’s kingdom, where every nation worships together in perfect unity, by pursuing transformative oneness through Jesus Christ and a steadfast commitment to biblical truth.

SPIRITUAL FORMATION

WELLNESS Psalm 139:14 states that God created our innermost being, and we are “fearfully and wonderfully made” by Him. God designed us to have thoughts, emotions, gifts, and phyiscal bodies that together make up the whole person. Each part of us needs care and attention to ensure we thrive and live the life He created us to live. The Wellness team promotes understanding of each area of well-being and how to care for and honor it by providing the following:

Pastoral care for the whole person

Healthy coping strategies embedded in curriculum at all campuses

Opportunities for our community to care for each part of their being

Social-emotional learning strategies included in the school day

Resources for social, emotional, and spiritual support, including counseling services with a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Support for parents and investment in family relationships

WARRIORS UNITED Warriors United is a safe and welcoming space that meets at lunch to help students connect with one another. We want every student to have a place where they feel included and supported. The program is led by our junior high campus leadership class and wellness counselor.

vcs.net/wellness

STUDENT LIFE VCJH is a thriving student body. Whether they’re cheering on their fellow Warriors in class competitions, dressing up in costumes for spirit week, or celebrating at Eighth Grade Breakaway, it’s easy to see why our students are proud to be Warriors.

WHERE EVERYBODY BELONGS (WEB) The WEB program ensures that no student goes through junior high alone. Part of a national organization, WEB offers leadership classes and training for seventh and eighth-grade students to help sixth graders achieve success. From encouraging notes to lunchtime socials, student leaders take the initiative to help create a community where everybody really does belong.

JUNIOR HIGH EVENTS During each school year, there are multiple events for students and families. •

New Parent Community Dinner and Orientation

•

JH Student Orientation

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Eighth Grade Breakaway Retreat

•

JH Family Pancake Breakfast

•

Fundraisers

•

Eighth Grade Washington, D.C. Trip

•

Junior Conservatory Disneyland Trip

•

Family Skate Night

•

Student HYPE Night

Parents are invited to get involved at VCJH by joining our Parent Teacher Prayer Fellowship (PTPF) and the Warrior Club.

INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM The International Student program prepares students to navigate life in the United States during junior high, high school, and as they enter college. Students will receive additional educational support, participate in cultural learning activities, and build relationships with other students, faculty, and mentors in their time at VCS.

vcs.net/international

WARRIOR TIME Every Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday, students will have time set aside with a teacher for valuable instruction beyond the definition of specific subjects. On Mondays and Thursdays, students extend their learning in one of three settings—academic labs, interest-specific clubs, or small groups with teachers. We want all students to find the support they need with a format that will benefit them the most. On Wednesdays, students participate in chapel to learn more about God through worship and His Word, the Bible.

CLUBS Clubs are offered every Monday and Thursday during Warrior Time. To view a current list of clubs, visit vcs.net/jhclubs.

HOUSES Students are sorted into four Houses—Moses, Esther, Solomon, and Deborah—each associated with one of the virtues of honor, sacrifice, wisdom, and courage. This program aims to foster community and personal growth by mixing all three grades within each House, creating close-knit units that connect throughout junior high. Students participate in spirited games, rallies, and Warrior Time, showcasing their house pride. They can earn points and Warrior Shields by demonstrating core virtues, regardless of House affiliation. At the semester’s end, one House is crowned champion, enriching students’ academic experience and nurturing lasting friendships and personal development.

STUDENT STORY My friends and I can be ourselves because Valley is so diverse in races, clubs, activities, and people groups. I’m a part of so many friend groups that welcome everyone, and I have so many people I can trust to help me grow in my abilities. The trust and relationships I’ve created with my teachers have helped because I don’t need to be scared of them. It’s like talking to my friends. ~ Riley

BECOME A WA

APPLY FOR ADMISSIONS Our application process is completely online.

apply.vcs.net NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY AS TO STUDENTS

Valley Christian Schools admits students of any race, color, and national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, or national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

RRIOR.

VISIT CAMPUS See Valley Christian Schools in action. Join us for a personal tour, attend one of our Warrior for a Day visits, or be a part of Open House in the fall.

vcs.net/tour Check out Valley Christian Schools’ Virtual Tour. This interactive, informative experience lets you explore our beautiful campus from the convenience of your home. vcs.net/virtualtour

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.

vcs.net

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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To support VCS, please call the Community Development and Advancement Office at (408) 362-7644 or visit give.vcs.net.

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