Chapel
Once a week, students gather for a time of reflection and worship. Younger grades, from first to fourth, enjoy a service designed just for them, while older students in fifth through eighth grades have their own separate gathering. Teachers and guest speakers guide these sessions, which begin with music and flow into a message or story from the Bible. Middle School students are led in worship by their own praise team. Each lesson is brought to life with engaging activities, whether through a hands-on demonstration, visual aid, or an object lesson. Occasionally, parents and guest speakers are invited to offer insights to both students and staff. Special services are held for meaningful events like Veterans Day or the Life in the Spirit Series. Overall, chapel is a time for everyone to grow in relationship with Jesus and build deeper connections with one another.
Field Trips
Experiential learning opportunities outside the classroom are often some of the most enriching and memorable experiences for students. Field trips play a crucial role in our curriculum, each designed with educational significance and a clear instructional focus for the participants. Parents are frequently invited to join these outings as chaperones. Some examples of class field trips include:
Kindergarten: The Baltimore Zoo
First Grade: Sharp's at Waterford Farm and The Maryland Science Center
Second Grade: Robinson Nature Center and Benjamin Banneker Park
Third Grade: The Arbutus Library
Fourth Grade: First Fruits Farm, and Oregon Ridge Nature Center
Fifth Grade: First Fruits Farm, Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land, Mount Vernon, Fort McHenry and the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House and The National Archives and Museum of American History
Sixth Grade: First Fruits Farm, Sight and Sound Backstage Tour and The Tabernacle
Seventh Grade: First Fruits Farm, The Museum of The Bible in Washington D.C. and Chesapeake Bay Experience
Eighth Grade: First Fruits Farm, The Holocaust Memorial in Washington D.C.
Physical Education
Our Physical Education program emphasizes both individual skill development and the importance of teamwork and sportsmanship. We encourage students to honor God through the care of their spirit, mind, and body. Boys and girls from kindergarten to eighth grade receive PE instruction once a week from experienced instructors.
Each year, students take part in a Sports Day. Sports Day is an exciting event where students from kindergarten through eighth grade come together to compete in friendly games and activities. Everyone is divided into colorful teams that mix students from all grades, fostering camaraderie and teamwork. Eighth graders take on the role of team leaders, guiding their younger teammates through various sports activities held throughout the school. A highlight of the day is the tug-of-war competition, where eighth graders face off against teachers in a thrilling showdown. At the end of the day, ribbons are awarded to the top three teams, celebrating their achievements and sportsmanship. It’s a fun-filled day of competition, collaboration, and community spirit!
Electives
Each Monday and Friday afternoon, Middle School students can take part in an elective class facilitated by a Middle School teacher or a parent. These electives encompass a wide array of activities designed to inspire curiosity and allow students to explore new skills and interests. Every two quarters, a new set of elective offerings is available. Some examples of past electives include:
- Podcasting
- A/V Technology
- Worship Team
- Kinderbuddies
- Intro to Guitar
- Fitness Club
- Intro to Engineering
- Photography
Outdoor Education
All 5th - 8th grade students attend a three-day outdoor education experience which encourages building positive relationships and growing spiritually, all while having a lot of fun! This beloved tradition is a valuable experience for our students, parents, and teachers. There is time for bonding and building friendships, as we carpool together, share rooms in the lodge, eat meals together, and participate in many outdoor camp activities.
Dress Down Days
Each month, students get excited for our themed Dress-Down Days, where they can trade in their uniforms for fun, themed outfits like Tie-Dye Day, Maryland Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Jersey Day, and more. Most Dress-Down Days cost just $1, with all donations going to a charity or cause close to the school’s heart. These days are always a hit, giving students a chance to express their creativity while supporting meaningful causes in the community.