Elementary

Elementary2025-12-04T10:46:34-08:00

Where Faith Shapes Learning

Elementary at Valley Christian School (grades 1–6) is a vibrant, Christ-centered environment where students grow spiritually, academically, and socially. With reasonable class sizes and dedicated Christian teachers, our students receive the personal attention they need to flourish during these formative years.

Christ-Centered Classrooms. Academic Excellence. Lasting Impact.

What Makes Elementary at VCS Unique?

At Valley Christian, we believe academic growth and spiritual formation go hand in hand. Our elementary program marks a meaningful step as students begin to engage more deeply with both learning and faith. Grounded in a biblical worldview, the curriculum builds strong foundations in reading, writing, math, science, and history, while also guiding students to understand God’s truth and their identity in Christ. Daily Bible lessons, weekly chapel, and intentional character development help shape not only what students know, but who they are becoming.

In addition to core subjects, students enjoy enrichment classes in art, music, PE, library, and technology, along with opportunities for project-based learning that foster creativity and collaboration. Reasonable class sizes allow teachers to know each child personally and support their growth with care and purpose. In this nurturing yet academically focused environment, students develop confidence, curiosity, and character – preparing them for the years ahead in school and in faith.

Valley Christian School’s Approach to Learning in Elementary

Christ-Centered Instruction

Our biblical worldview is woven into every subject and classroom moment. Whether solving math problems or studying history, students learn to see the world through the lens of God’s truth and develop Christ-like character in all they do.

Academic Foundations with Purpose

We emphasize mastery in core subjects – reading, writing, math, science, and social studies – through curriculum that challenges, engages, and supports diverse learning styles. Students are equipped with skills they will use throughout their education and beyond.

Growing Independent Thinkers

Elementary students begin taking more responsibility for their learning. Through guided practice, thoughtful questioning, and collaborative projects, they develop confidence, curiosity, and critical thinking skills in a safe, encouraging environment.

Strong Student-Teacher Relationships

With reasonable class sizes and a close-knit community, our teachers are able to truly know each student – academically, emotionally, and spiritually. This connection supports both strong learning outcomes and personal growth.

Creative and Active Enrichment

In addition to daily academics, students participate in music, art, physical education, library, and technology. These experiences develop the whole child, encouraging creative expression, movement, and real-world skills.

Partnership with Families

We believe parents are the primary faith and life educators, and our school supports that role. Through communication, collaboration, and shared values, we walk alongside families to help each child thrive.

Meet the VCS Elementary Teachers & Staff

  • Anna Taylor

    3rd Grade

    3rd Grade

  • Becky Evans

    6th Grade

    6th Grade

  • Belinda Simon

    4th Grade

    4th Grade

  • Betsy Holritz

    Elementary Computers & Homeschool Secondary: Bible, History & English

    Elementary Computers & Homeschool Secondary: Bible, History & English

  • Breanna Scott

    Recess Supervisor/TA

    Recess Supervisor/TA

  • Brenda DeJong

    K-12 PE & Secondary Health

    K-12 PE & Secondary Health

  • Carrie Murphy

    1st Grade

    1st Grade

  • Cassandra Raczek

    Upper Elementary Teacher’s Assistant

    Upper Elementary Teacher’s Assistant

  • Debbie Heden

    Lead Elementary Teacher, 3rd Grade

    Lead Elementary Teacher, 3rd Grade

  • Debbie Reese

    Librarian

    Librarian

  • ErinLea Longson

    5th Grade

    5th Grade

  • Jami Backell

    K-12 Choirs & Elementary Music

    K-12 Choirs & Elementary Music

  • Jennifer Christensen

    Elementary Principal & Directed Studies Coordinator

    Elementary Principal & Directed Studies Coordinator

  • Jennifer McGovern

    2nd Grade

    2nd Grade

  • Jessica Frangione

    2nd Grade

    2nd Grade

  • Joni Croft

    Directed Studies Teacher

    Directed Studies Teacher

  • Julie Gullman

    4th Grade

    4th Grade

  • Kelli Cairns

    Recess Supervisor

    Recess Supervisor

  • Kristine Humphreys

    6th Grade

    6th Grade

  • Lena Fomenko

    Recess Supervisor/TA

    Recess Supervisor/TA

  • Liz Craciun

    K-12 Music/Band/Worship & High School Bible

    K-12 Music/Band/Worship & High School Bible

  • Matt Barreiro

    K-12 Athletic Director/PE Teacher

    K-12 Athletic Director/PE Teacher

  • Rachel Charbonneau

    5th Grade

    5th Grade

  • Sue Olson

    1st Grade

    1st Grade

  • Carrie Murphy

    1st Grade

    1st Grade

  • Cassandra Raczek

    Upper Elementary Teacher’s Assistant

    Upper Elementary Teacher’s Assistant

  • Rachel Charbonneau

    5th Grade

    5th Grade

  • Jennifer McGovern

    2nd Grade

    2nd Grade

  • Jessica Frangione

    2nd Grade

    2nd Grade

  • Betsy Holritz

    Elementary Computers & Homeschool Secondary: Bible, History & English

    Elementary Computers & Homeschool Secondary: Bible, History & English

  • Jennifer Christensen

    Elementary Principal & Directed Studies Coordinator

    Elementary Principal & Directed Studies Coordinator

  • Belinda Simon

    4th Grade

    4th Grade

  • Becky Evans

    6th Grade

    6th Grade

  • Brenda DeJong

    K-12 PE & Secondary Health

    K-12 PE & Secondary Health

Directed Studies

Supporting Every Student’s Success

At Valley Christian School, we recognize that every child learns differently. Our Directed Studies Program is designed to come alongside students who face unique academic challenges, ensuring they have the tools and support to reach their God-given potential.

Through individualized assessment and planning, the Directed Studies team works with students, parents, and teachers to identify specific learning needs and implement strategies for success. Whether through targeted skill development, modified classroom instruction, or guided independent study, we help students strengthen core academic abilities while remaining engaged in the classroom community.

VCS serves students with mild learning differences, providing individualized plans for approximately 5–10% of the students with unique needs. Our coordinators collaborate with teachers to ensure classroom accommodations and long-term academic growth.

While we strive to meet a wide range of learning needs, we are not equipped to serve students requiring extensive special education services. Families whose children need more comprehensive resources are encouraged to explore available public-school support services.

Every student is created with purpose. We’re committed to helping each one learn, grow, and thrive.

Is VCS right for your child?

Take a tour of our campus and discover how VCS develops your child’s academic and spiritual growth.

See what families are saying about Valley Christian School

Holly Joreteg

Holly Joreteg

My husband and I are constantly sharing our experiences we've had at VCS. It's a blessing to my family. From the moment we walked into VCS, it's so apparent that God comes first.

My husband and I are constantly sharing our experiences we've had at VCS. It's a blessing to my family. From the moment we walked into VCS, it's so apparent that God comes first.

Meesh Fomenko

Class of 2002

Meesh Fomenko

Class of 2002

Mrs. Hopson had us go through Philippians like 30 times. That book has marked my life. Thanks to her class, I often refer to it when I am preaching the Gospel around the world.

Mrs. Hopson had us go through Philippians like 30 times. That book has marked my life. Thanks to her class, I often refer to it when I am preaching the Gospel around the world.

Kelly Welsh

Class of 2004 & VCS Parent

Kelly Welsh

Class of 2004 & VCS Parent

I am amazed at how my daughter’s academics are far ahead of her peers. The academics are superior.

I am amazed at how my daughter’s academics are far ahead of her peers. The academics are superior.

VCS Parent

VCS Parent

[VCS] came highly recommended by close friends.

[VCS] came highly recommended by close friends.

Jim Fields

Former VCS Parent & Board Member

Jim Fields

Former VCS Parent & Board Member

The teachers of VCS were an amazing and Godly influence on the lives of our children.

The teachers of VCS were an amazing and Godly influence on the lives of our children.

Kelly Welsh

Class of 2004 & VCS Parent

Kelly Welsh

Class of 2004 & VCS Parent

Valley Christian teachers are the kindest and best people in the world!

Valley Christian teachers are the kindest and best people in the world!

Brent Pope

Class of 1984, Former Parent and Current Board Member

Brent Pope

Class of 1984, Former Parent and Current Board Member

VCS played a major role in setting a foundation of life skills, focused on biblical principles, that I have used my entire adult life.

VCS played a major role in setting a foundation of life skills, focused on biblical principles, that I have used my entire adult life.

Mrs. Hopson

Bible, English, and Home Economics teacher

Mrs. Hopson

Bible, English, and Home Economics teacher

God shows up in all of my classes. The connections to His word in the curriculum of English spills over into life lessons in Home Economics.

God shows up in all of my classes. The connections to His word in the curriculum of English spills over into life lessons in Home Economics.

Amy Poston

Amy Poston

We've been happy with our son being at VCS. We like what he is being taught and the values that are important to us. We're really pleased with how things are going academically. VCS is a really good fit for our family.

We've been happy with our son being at VCS. We like what he is being taught and the values that are important to us. We're really pleased with how things are going academically. VCS is a really good fit for our family.

VCS Parent

VCS Parent

We really appreciate the caring staff, close family feel, and emphasis on Christian values.

We really appreciate the caring staff, close family feel, and emphasis on Christian values.

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Guide to Elementary School

What grade levels are included in Elementary at Valley Christian School?2025-05-22T07:43:08-07:00

Elementary at VCS includes 1st through 6th grade.

What is the class size in Elementary?2025-11-19T11:53:57-08:00

Valley Christian has two classrooms for each elementary grade with class sizes ranging from 15-25 students to ensure each student receives personal attention and support from their teacher.

How is faith integrated into the elementary school day?2025-05-22T07:44:14-07:00

Students participate in daily Bible lessons, prayer, and weekly chapel services. A biblical worldview is consistently applied across all subjects and classroom life.

What enrichment opportunities are available to elementary students?2025-05-22T07:44:40-07:00

Students enjoy weekly classes in art, music, physical education, library, and computer lab, in addition to their core academic subjects.

Is Valley Christian School accredited?2025-05-22T07:45:01-07:00

Yes. VCS is accredited by both ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International) and WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges).

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