Our Curriculum

The Village Charter School's program is enriched and vitalized by a multicultural curriculum, multi-age classes, nature-based and experiential learning opportunities, festivals , community service, and parent participation . The Village approach is community-oriented, and values healthy emotional, social, and physical development. In addition to academic pursuits and the arts, students learn conflict resolution and life skills (cooperation, integrity, curiosity, initiative, flexibility, responsibility, perseverance, sense of humor, patience, sense of self-worth, organization, and problem solving). In the safe, nurturing and encouraging learning environment that results, children develop effective and collaborative lifelong learning skills. The K-8 model provides stability, continuity, and comfort. It is within this overarching framework that VCS students become fulfilled, creative, and productive individuals. The Village Charter School curriculum meets California State Content Standards and Frameworks.

The community-based focus of the Village Charter School occurs in multi-age groups both in the classroom and in all-school activities such as school plays and festivals. Older students serve as models and mentors for younger ones. Students engage with one another to learn and practice communication skills, conflict resolution skills, and to develop a strong sense of belonging to and participating actively in the larger community.

Our students benefit from experiential, interactive learning approaches, where core academics are interwoven with our whole world curriculum in such ways as:

• Instruction and curriculum which recognize and nurture individual intelligences and learning styles
  
• Creative arts integrated into the curriculum, including crafts, visual arts, music, performing arts, and cooking
  
• Plays and festivals created with student involvement
  
• Nature-based hikes & garden activities
  
• Frequent field trips and camp-outs
  
• Community service opportunities