When we think about what makes a school special, we often picture more than just the textbooks, tests, and classroom walls. We think of a nurturing environment where kids are not only challenged academically but are also encouraged to grow in faith, creativity, and character. At CLS, academic quality is intertwined with the values of love, service, and spiritual growth, creating a place where each of our kids can flourish in all aspects of their lives.
At the heart of this environment is a commitment to academic excellence. Teachers are more than just educators; they are mentors and guides who walk alongside students, encouraging them to ask questions, think critically, and seek understanding from a biblical perspective. There’s an intentional focus on fostering curiosity and developing a love for learning that goes beyond just passing tests—it’s about shaping well-rounded individuals who can think for themselves and make a positive impact on the world.
At CLS, we strive for partnership with parents and the community. We share the understanding that our students are not just academic achievers but individuals created in God’s image, with unique talents and passions. This is where specialty classes like Media, Music, Health, Art, and Physical Education play such a crucial role.
In the Media class, students are given the tools to navigate a world full of information, learn how to discern truth, use technology responsibly, and of course, check out books in the library.
In Music and Art, children are encouraged to express themselves creatively, reflecting the beauty of the world God has created. These subjects are not just “extras” but key components of a child’s intellectual and emotional development, offering a balance to traditional academic subjects and fostering well-roundedness.
Physical Education and Health classes provide students with a foundation for lifelong wellness, teaching not only the importance of staying active but also the significance of caring for one’s body as a temple. Whether it’s learning to play a sport, improving coordination, fostering teamwork, or understanding nutrition, these classes instill valuable lessons that extend beyond the classroom and into daily life.
During January, grades K-2 worked on their Nutrition unit in Health class. We took it beyond the basic Food Pyramid or My Plate to show our youngest learners how much fun eating healthy can be. With hands-on activities to show the difference between fresh and processed food, eating different parts of the plant, and why we want to eat the colors of the rainbow.
Our final day of the unit was celebrated with rainbow fruit kabobs with clouds (whipped cream) and rainbow veggies with clouds (ranch dressing). These treats were enjoyed while watching Veggie Tales!
Together, these specialty programs complement a strong academic curriculum, allowing students to discover their God-given gifts and develop skills that will serve them throughout their lives. They remind us that education is about more than just preparing for the future—it’s about nurturing the whole child and equipping them to live out their faith with confidence.