Kindergarten GROW: Capistrano Valley Christian Schools to Launch Innovative Learning Experience

Capistrano Valley Christian Schools (CVCS) will launch its new, innovative Kindergarten GROW Program in Fall 2017. Applications are being accepted for the area’s first and only biblically-based STEM learning classroom to engage students academically, physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually—going beyond the classroom. Application fee of $100 is waived if enrolled by July 1.

“Life’s biggest lessons happen out of the desk,” said Elementary Principal Tessa Samuelsen. In partnership with the Discovery Cube, Santa Ana; the San Juan Capistrano Ecology Center; the city of Dana Point; and the creators of DeepRoots Bible Curriculum, Tessa Samuelsen and her team of teachers have developed the Kindergarten GROW Program. “We want students to see, feel and be a part of the learning process—to move beyond paper and pencil activities—in order to experience authentic learning.” The goal is to encourage students to take risks, problem solve, become unique thinkers, and cultivate leadership skills.

The Kindergarten GROW classroom will allow for flexible seating, immersive play, hands-on learning, and more, in a classroom that contains such features as indoor ecology gardens, water tables, and hands-on science tables. Pretend veterinarian clinic and a simulated architectural firm are among the immersive experiences that incorporate science, literacy, math and biblical learning approaches.

“Kindergarten GROW is based on 21st Century learning skills that incorporate communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking,” said Samuelsen. “Education and the way children learn are changing and we need to change the way we teach, facilitate, and guide students.”

CVCS’s new program sets itself apart by expanding on the basic STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) elements, including social development through exploratory and immersive play. "GROW combines STEM-based approach with added academic rigor, standard-based instructions, and a biblical approach to learning," said Samuelsen.

A weekly “genius hour” helps student explore and share the knowledge they have acquired through study and exploration.

“We believe GROW with its cross-categorical instruction, simulates real world learning where subject matter is not taught or experienced in isolation,” said Samuelsen.

Among CVCS’ partners for Kindergarten GROW are Discovery Cube, Santa Ana; the San Juan Capistrano ecology Center Ecology Center; the city of Dana Point; and the creators of DeepRoots Bible Curriculum.

A special Parent Information Night will be held on May 16, 2017, at 6:30 p.m. This night will be a hands-on information as our Kindergarten GROW team will share with you how this program will set the stage for lifelong learning and introduce 21st-century skills like communication, collaboration, and creativity.

Please RSVP to Mrs. Samuelsen at tsamuelsen@cvcs.org

To secure a spot with waived $100 application fee for Kindergarten GROW, use code GROW2017. Space is limited. http://www.cvcs.org/apps/pages/kgrow