VIEWBOOK EMPOWERING LEARNERS INSPIRING LIVES PREPARING HEARTS
WESTMINSTER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL VIEWBOOK 54 MISSION STATEMENT EMPOWERING LEARNERS, PREPARING HEARTS, AND INSPIRING LIVES TO FAITHFULLY SERVE AS AMBASSADORS FOR JESUS CHRIST. TABLE OFMirellaCONTENTSWebster Admission Assistant mwebster@wcsmiami.org 305-233-2030, ext. 1217 Angela Castano Director of Admission and Enrollment Management acastano@wcsmiami.org 305-233-2030, ext. 1246 Mary Fernandez Associate Director of Admission mfernandez@wcsmiami.org 305-233-2030, ext. 1209 FOR ADMISSION INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 5 About Us 6 Westminster at a Glance 9 Preschool/Elementary School 11 Middle School 13 High School 14 Signature Programs 17 Spiritual Formation 18 Warrior Week 20 Athletics 23 Fine Arts 6855 S.W. 152 Street Palmetto Bay, FL 33157 www.wcsmiami.org
ixty years ago, a small group of dedicated Christians at Shenandoah Presbyterian Church sensed a calling to start a school characterized by excellence and devoted to a biblical philosophy of education. In the founding charter, they pledged to establish a school and educa tional program “propounding the highest of academic standards, so as to prepare covenant youth for purposeful Godliness in any vocation or entrance into leading institutions of higher education.”
On September 6, 1961, Westminster Christian School opened its doors and today, thanks to the vision and dedication of school founder Mr. Jules Vroon and the leadership of many faithful men and women over the years, Westminster is the standard for Christian education in South Florida.
SABOUT
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Westminster Christian School is now situated on 31 lush acres and serves 1,280 students from preschool through 12th grade. While so much has changed, Westminster Christian School’s mission remains the same: To provide an excellent education to the children of Christian families. US
ACCREDITATION CLASSAVERAGESIZE Preschool: 16 Each teacher has a full-time dedicated assistant. Elementary: 21 Middle School: 22 High School: 21 Academic courses are limited to 28 students. Some AP courses have as few as seven students. FACULTYAveragetenure of faculty members is 11 years. Seventy-five percent (75%) have a master’s degree or higher; five percent (5%) have ALUMNIdoctorates.Westminsterboastsapproximately4,800alumni.Inthepastyear,legacystudentsrepresentedmorethan10%ofWestminster’senrollment.ThesestudentsarethechildrenofWestminstergraduates,orformerstudents,whoexperiencedthebenefitsofaWestminstereducationandwanttoshareitwiththeirchildren. Scan the QR code to view dates for tours.admissionupcomingthe
Westminster also offers over 15 after-school clubs including cheerleading, ballet, drum roll and chapel praise team, as well as an elementary sports program to help students develop their God-given gifts. My son’s first grade teacher has shown him nothing, but love. He comes home daily saying he loves being in her class. She has made our son into a prayer warrior and fostered his love of Christ. She selected him to lead prayer on national prayer day and he was so proud.
PRESCHOOL / ELEMENTARY SCHOOLWestminsterrecognizes that each child has a unique and individual pattern of growth and learning. We offer a safe and nurturing environment that promotes the intellectual, spiritual, social, physical and emotional development of every student. We utilize nationally-recognized resources and abide by rigorous standards to provide all children with excellent learning opportunities. Students participate in art, music and physical education classes, and have the opportunity to select electives in technology, Spanish, robotics, coding and programming. Westminster’s TIDE program, which begins in elementary school, is a project-based curriculum in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Fourth and fifth grade students may also apply for the VEX IQ competitive robotics teams. Since its implementation, Warrior Robotics has won numerous awards at both the District and State level, has received several World bids and was recently granted the Design Award at the VEX IQ Elementary School World Championship.
— Catalina Rodriguez-Edwards ‘03 “
Westminster’s preschool and elementary school also boasts the WorldWonder program, a hands-on learning experience that promotes the exploration of God’s creation with on-campus field trips to the Nature Center and Wild Acre to experience the wonder of the world around us.
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MIDDLE SCHOOLMiddle
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The opportunity to participate in Westminster athletics also begins in middle school, with competitive teams in more than 14 sports.
The middle school engineering program provides an opportunity for students to use science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) to gain an introduction to the engineering field through real world, project-based collaborative learning.
— Aubrey E. WestminsterHernandez-Solaun,parent “
school is a time of extraordinary growth and change. Westminster offers an excellent learning experience that allows students to embrace their unique talents and interests during this important time in early adolescent development. Our faculty and staff are dedicated professionals who strive to provide a challenging academic curriculum from a biblical perspective. Students are enrolled in five core academic courses (math, science, language arts, social studies and Bible) with opportunities to apply for advanced and accelerated tracks in math and language arts, and can select from 35 electives including band, debate, art, foreign language and dance. Students may also apply for National Junior Honor Society, student council and the reputable after-school competitive robotics team.
My daughter has been impacted by so many teachers at Westminster. The amount of attention and support we received from all of her teachers has been outstanding. Today, we are proud to say that she thrives academically. She has received academic honors, the President’s Education Award, has served as a safety patrol and as vice president of student council. Forever grateful!
HIGH SCHOOLWestminster
offers an array of academic courses that challenge high school students academically and prepares them to be ambassadors for Christ. Westminster’s signature programs allow students to discover and develop their gifts, while providing further preparation for the rigor of higher education. Students may choose from 40 electives, 26 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and over 35 clubs and organizations. Each student is also assigned a counselor from Westminster’s College Counseling Center that will assist with course selection to maximize success in the classroom as well as guide them through college selection and the application process.
HIGHLIGHTS : 40 ELECTIVES 26 ADVANCED PLACEMENT COURSES 35 CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS STUDENT LEADERSHIP PROGRAM EXTENSIVE COMMUNITY SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES
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The Business and Entrepreneurship program is designed to bridge real-world business trends with foundational principles and methods that are commensurate with the industry. This robust curriculum prepares students for college courses and the business world at large. Students demonstrate their personal growth and entrepreneurial mind through the design and development of their own business venture which is presented at Westmin ster’s Entrepreneurial Showcase.
MASS MEDIA COMMUNICATIONSAND PROGRAM
HONORS RESEARCHSCIENCEPROGRAM
The PLTW Biomedical Science program allows students to take an investigative approach to real and current medical issues. Working with the same tools used by professionals in hospitals and labs, students engage in compelling, hands-on activities and work together
STUDY ABROAD
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— Aria Upton ‘21 “
ENGINEERINGAP C APS T ONE SCIENCE RESEARCH
The Emerald Scholars program is designed for exceptional high school students who seek academic enrichment and aspire to participate in Westminster’s most ambitious courses. Students accepted into the program benefit from exclusive enrichment activities such as internships, independent research, service projects, and more. Emerald Scholars graduate as Christian leaders prepared to think critically, collaborate effectively, seek innovative solutions and be examples of excellence in their communities.
— Rachel Barrios ‘21 “ When I was enrolled at Westminster, I took multiple AP courses. In college, I was able to use those credits toward state-required courses like economics and writing. As a result, I was able to save money and time while working toward my science-based major. I am grateful for a school like Westminster that offers multiple AP courses with incredible, faithful teachers who truly care for their students.
Westminster Christian School offers students the opportunity to enhance their educational experience by studying in Europe for one semester during their sophomore or junior year at the American boarding school in Kandern, Germany. This idyllic village is located in Germany’s Black Forest just 20 minutes from France and 20 minutes from Basel, Switzerland.
Westminster’s Engineering Program focuses on a rigorous project-based curriculum in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to develop students’ ability to collaborate, think creatively, communicate effectively, and work independently to solve problems while introducing them to the engineering field. Students also compete annually in robotics and have won a State competition and have received several World bids.
SIGNATURE PROGRAMS: EMERALD SCHOLARS
PROJECT LEAD THE WAY (PLTW) BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE PROGRAM
ENGINEERING PROGRAM
— Ashley Castano ‘17 “
Westminster is such an amazing community to be in. They gave me the tools I needed to succeed in college. I was able to come to college with enough AP credits to complete my math requirements. Westminster was an excellent foundation builder for me!
AP CAPSTONE Introduced at Westminster in fall 2018, the AP Capstone program is the crown jewel of the College Board curriculum, offering two yearlong AP courses: AP Seminar and AP Research. These courses seek to develop students’ skills in research, analysis, evidence-based arguments, collaboration, writing and presenting. Students who pass both AP Seminar and AP Research, as well as four other AP exams, will graduate with the AP Capstone Diploma from the College Board, a highly coveted and prestigious honor.
BUSINESS ENTREPRENEURSHIPAND PROGRAM
to find solutions to real-world problems. Our professional partners are an integral part of student success and provide mentorship throughout the program.
The Honors Science Research Program gives students the opportunity to participate in real-world scientific research and develop scientific reasoning skills. Each year, students are invited to compete in the Florida State Science and Engineering Fair, and have competed at the prestigious Intel’s International Science and Engineering Fair. This record is unparalleled by any other private or public school in Miami-Dade. As a result, Westminster students have gone on to perform research at leading universities such as MIT, Columbia, Emory and the University of Miami, and have been ranked among the top budding scientists in the world.
I would have to say my experience at Westminster was amazing! All four years, the teachers, faculty, and students showed that they really care about one another. Westminster also taught me how to balance school work, extra-curricular activities, and sports. Learning to balance all of those things rolled over into college life.
The Mass Media and Communications program explores the methodologies of journalism, broadcasting, public relations and marketing research. Courses explore the importance and practice of responsible, professional and ethical communication in a digital age, while infusing the latest advancements in the industry.
“Westminster is committed to supporting students in their spiritual growth by engaging them in biblical teachings, walking with them through life’s challenges and calling them to a higher standard of living for Christ.”
WeeklyFORMATIONSPIRITUALchapelsandworship coupled with daily prayers and devotions contribute to Westminster’s mission to prepare students to serve as ambassadors for Christ. Westminster’s faculty, staff and administrators are fully committed to supporting students and families in their faith by providing an excellent, reformed Christian education. John Bishop, Westminster’s director of spiritual formation, leads elementary, middle and high school students in weekly chapels that are both engaging and spirituallyfocused. High school students also kick-off every school year with a week-long spiritual retreat that takes place in the beautiful mountains of Jasper, Georgia known as Warrior Week.
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— John Bishop, Westminster’s director of spiritual formation
As part of Westminster’s commitment to inspire lives and prepare hearts for Christ, high school students, faculty and staff begin every school year by attending a week-long spiritual retreat in the beautiful mountains of Jasper, Georgia. The trip is a magnificent combination of fellowship, worship, daily devotionals, character-building activities, fun and adventure. Students are provided with the tools to pursue spiritual renewal while developing relationships with fellow classmates and faculty in preparation for a successful academic school year. Westminster strengthened my faith, encouraged me to seek a church community post grad, and prepared me to face any new challenge – and see it through a Christian lens. I still remember some of the songs we’d sing in Bible class in 5th grade or the Bible verses we’d memorize in class. Those are the things I hold on to and appreciate about Westminster.
— Ian Poveda ‘17 “
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In addition, Westminster offers a comprehensive after-school program for elementary school students that allows them to begin developing their athletic skills in a positive environment.
Baseball: ‘92 and ‘96 STATE CHAMPIONS Baseball: ‘81, ‘88, ‘90, ‘92, ‘94, ‘96, ‘97, ‘98, ‘09, ‘10, ‘15 Softball: ‘89, ‘97, ‘09, ‘14, ‘17, ‘18 Track & Field: ‘73 and ‘75 Girls’ Volleyball: ‘13 and ‘16 Girls’ Beach Volleyball: ‘21
NATIONALATHLETICWESTMINSTERLEGACY:CHAMPIONS
WESTMINSTER CHRISTIAN SCHOOL VIEWBOOK 2120 WestminsterATHLETICSAthleticshas a tradition of excellence that spans more than 60 years. Our athletes and teams have been crowned National and State Champions numerous times and have earned countless District and Regional Championship titles. Westminster Athletics is rooted in Christian values, commitment and discipline that has produced major-league athletes, players on professional tours and many college athletes. At Westminster, student athletes are motivated to glorify God through their physical gifts and to reach their full potential in the athletic arena. Westminster athletes are also encouraged to participate in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and to collaborate on community service projects with teammates.
BOYS
VolleyballTrackTennisSwimmingSoftballSoccerSailingLacrosseGolfEsportsCrossCheerleadingBeachBasketballVolleyballCountry&Field
ALL-DADE MAJOR SPORTS AWARDS Girls: ‘13-‘14, ‘15-‘16, ‘16-‘17, ‘17-‘18, ‘20-’21, ‘21-’22 Boys: ‘15-’16, ‘20-‘21
Westminster Christian School is a member of the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA).
WrestlingTrackTennisSwimmingSoccerSailingLacrosseGolfFootballEsportsCrossBasketballBaseballCountry&Field
WARRIOR SPORTS: Available to students in grades 6-12 GIRLS
FINEandband,performanceartwork,two-storyItaward-winninghighly-esteemed,FineArtsprograms.alsooffersclassroomspace,alobbytodisplaystudentaswellaspracticeandspacefororchestra,choir,theater,dancemore.ARTS
ThisBANDprogram offers concert bands in elementary, middle and high school. Jazz band, pep band and drum line are also offered to high school students. West minster’s middle school and high school ensembles travel annually and consistently earn top honors at competitions.
The Lighthouse Performing Arts Center features a state-of-the-art auditorium with seating for nearly 650 and provides a top-notch performance environment for Westminster’s
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TheFILMfilm program provides an opportunity for students to write, direct and produce their own films. The films are also screened at a red-carpet premiere at the end of the academic year.
The Westminster Christian School Fine Arts program nurtures and develops creative and artistic expression that complements critical thinking and academic skills. Students explore the arts through the following disciplines: band, choir, dance, drama, film, orchestra and visual arts. The fine arts curriculum is offered to students from preschool through grade 12, with focused instruction beginning in fourth grade.
OUR FACILITIES
Westminster’sCHOIR choral program provides beginners to advanced singers the opportunity to learn and develop their skills as musicians. Students in preschool through third grade are exposed to musical instruction and, beginning in fourth grade, the program offers allfemale choral groups and mixed ensembles. Students have performed at venues such as Gershwin Theater and Carnegie Hall, and have repeatedly received superior ratings at competitions.
Westminster’sDANCE dance team trains in both classical and commercial styles. The team performs in chapels and public venues, and competes annually in the Regional High School Dance Festival. Students also have the opportunity to train with recruiters and other high school dancers from around the country.
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TheORCHESTRAorchestraprogram offers six orches tras divided by grade level and skill. This rigorous program develops students’ talents, while providing opportunities for community performances. The middle and high school orchestra travel annually for state competitions, have performed at a variety of venues such as Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in NYC, and have been recognized countless times at the district, state and national level.
“I would not have traded my time at Westminster for anything in the world. Not only was I prepared for the academic rigor and natural competitive atmosphere of college, but Westminster equipped me for life. While there were moments of loss due to tragedies and pandemics that were beyond our control, being a Warrior (especially during that time) taught me vital lessons I would not have learned anywhere else. Going into college, Westminster instilled in me the importance of community, taught me how to develop meaningful relationships, and gave me a support system I will have for the rest of my life.”
— Caroline Boulris ‘20 “
ThisTHEATREprogramallows middle and high school students to explore the various facets of theatre. Through the Interna tional Thespian Troupe, they participate in district and state competitions, consistently receiving superior ratings. Students are also able to explore the backstage world of theatre through the introduction of set construction, various design skills, stage management, sound and lighting.
VISUAL ARTS Students in kindergarten through fifth grade receive weekly visual arts instruc tion. Middle and high school students can choose from a wide range of daily electives, including drawing and paint ing, photography, architectural design and drawing, and sculpture. They also have the opportunity to travel locally and abroad to enhance their art education.
VIEWBOOK 27 BEGIN THE PROCESSAPPLICATIONTODAY. Please contact the admission office at 305-233-4027 or email us at admission@wcsmiami.org September 1, 2022 Start of 2023-24 Admission Year All applications are welcome. November 1, 2022 Early Admission Deadline Those seeking financial assistance are not eligible for early admission. December 1, 2022 Early Admission Notification December 9, 2022 Early Admission Contract and Non-refundable Deposit Due February 1, 2023 Financial Aid Application Deadline Regular Admission Rolling Admission SEASONADMISSION2023-24Notification ADMISSION TOURS Campus Tours SEPTEMBER 15 8:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. SEPTEMBER 29 8:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. OCTOBER 13 8:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. OCTOBER 27 8:30 a.m. - 10 a.m. Admission testing is required for all applications. Westminster will offer on-site ISEE tests for grades 5 - 11: SEPTEMBER 24, OCTOBER 8, OCTOBER 22, NOVEMBER 5, DECEMBER 10 Admission testing for PK3 - Grade 4 will be scheduled on a rolling basis. 6855 SW 152 STREET PALMETTO BAY, FL 33157 I 305-233-4027 WWW.WCSMIAMI.ORG I ADMISSION@WCSMIAMI.ORG ADMISSION OPEN HOUSE NOVEMBER 9 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. Scan here to RSVP
6855 S.W. 152 Street Palmetto Bay, FL 33157 305-233-4027www.wcsmiami.org
