Philosophy of Education - Cornerstone Christian School

Philosophy of Education

Academics

“If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.” 1 Corinthians 13:2

1 Corinthians 13:2 portrays how knowledge is good, but without Godly character, it is nothing. We desire our students to not only learn information, but to become students who love to learn. We believe that Christians should be the best thinkers in society because of the nature of the relationship we have with the God of all Truth. We place a high standard on learning as students developmentally grow through our program.

Academic Core Values

1. We believe all students can and want to learn.

2. We value the potential of the individual as uniquely created by God and seek wisdom to help each student realize his/her full academic potential.

3. We value communication and strive to help each student gain a thorough comprehension and command of the fundamental processes used in communicating with others, such as reading, writing, speaking, listening, observing and modeling.

4. We value organization, order and discipline by encouraging the use of good study skills.

5. We value the truth of creation and teach students to develop an understanding of the order and design in creation and the laws which govern its processes and interactions.

6. We value God’s world and seek to develop an understanding, appreciation and an awareness of man's role in his environment, and how to use and preserve it properly.

7. We value good citizenship and promote it through developing the understanding and appreciation of our Christian heritage of responsible freedom, human dignity, and Biblical acceptance of authority.

8. We value math as a way to understand God’s order and we seek to develop an understanding of fundamental mathematical concepts and skill in using them in everyday life situations.

9. We value education as a lifelong goal and promote lifelong learning.

10. We value God’s Word as the academic authority and seek to develop creative and critical thinking, logical reasoning, and the proper use of Biblical criteria for evaluation.

Philosophy of Education

Children, in their early years, are like seeds that the family, the church, and the school must love and nurture while they have tender hearts and are forming their values. Scripture directs us to "bring them (children) up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord" (Ephesians 6:4). In doing this, we expect to reap a harvest of good fruit from "plants" firmly rooted in God's Word and prepared to be an effective witness.

CCS is an extension of the God-ordained authority of the home. We work in partnership with the Christian parent, who is the child's primary educator. The school assists parents in carrying out their scriptural mandate to "train up a child in the way he/she should go." Therefore, CCS provides many ways for parents to be involved in the school and expects parents to be active participants in their child's education. CCS also strives to support the Christian family rather than interfere with family life. We consider the need for family time when making home-work assignments, designing extra-curricular activities, and conducting fundraisers.

While CCS pursues academic excellence, first and foremost we pursue development of Christ-like attitudes and Christian character. We believe children achieve their maximum potential when they seek first Christ’s Kingdom and develop the fruit of the Spirit in their lives.

God created and values each child, and entrusts them to us as a gift. A major goal of Christian education is to build self-esteem in each child as he develops his unique God-given gifts and abilities. Therefore, we grade students according to a set standard, and also according to their efforts and application of abilities.

The concept of readiness forms the foundation of excellent education. We endeavor to introduce academic, character and spiritual concepts at an appropriate age. Many forces in our society hurry children to become adult-like at an early age. CCS helps students perform at their maximum potential, but takes care not to create undue stress in a child's life.

Children learn best by doing and experiencing things which interest them. Teachers at CCS implement a variety of activities and employ strategies for sparking student interest in topics. Teachers encourage the development of students’ problem solving skills, reasoning ability, ability to retain relevant informationand mastery of skills.

In order to ensure a positive learning environment, the staff at CCS administers firm yet loving discipline. Parents most effectively cooperate with the staff by disciplining and training their child at home to develop proper behaviorand therefore, proper learning.

CCS hires Christians for administrative positions, teaching positions and support staff. Their background and training qualify them to serve the grade levels and subject areas they teach. The staff considers themselves a “living curriculum,” called by God to exemplify the image of Jesus Christ. We realize that role models influence students more than any activity or curriculum. As role models, the CCS staff attempts to walk as “workmen who need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of Truth.” We recognize the Holy Spirit as the ultimate teacher and realize His power and guidance in all aspects of education.

CCS integrates Biblical principles in all areas of policy making, administration and teachingand under girds each area with prayer.

Parents and staff model Christ-like relationships for students by following the principles described in Matthew 18 in resolving differences. We invite parents to use their God-given gifts and abilities to support the school. We recognize all contributions as various ways the body works together to accomplish God's purposes.

CCS endeavors to glorify the Lord, bring credit to His ministryand to conduct enjoyable and profitable learning experiences. The outward appearance of the school personnel and students, as well as the school grounds, facilities and equipment, reflect the intensity of this pursuit.

CCS supports the development, advancement and cooperation of all types of Christ-centered education, including Christian home schools and other area Christian schools.

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