High School

High School2025-12-04T10:44:57-08:00

Stepping Into Life, Leadership, and Lasting Faith

High school at Valley Christian School is a season of sharpening – academically, spiritually, and personally. As students move through grades 9–12, they are challenged to grow in independence, take ownership of their learning, and step into leadership. With a biblical worldview at the core of every subject, students are equipped to think critically, lead with integrity, and pursue God’s calling for their lives.

Guiding students toward maturity, leadership, and a future built on faith.

Preparing VCS High School Students for a Life of Purpose

At Valley Christian School (VCS), we offer more than just an education—we provide a comprehensive Christian high school experience that seamlessly integrates rigorous academics with deep spiritual formation. Our mission is to prepare students not just for college, but for a life of purpose and impact.

Our robust academic program is designed to challenge and equip students for their next steps. We offer a wide array of courses in all core subjects, including an honors track where students can earn valuable AP and dual college credits. Furthermore, trade-focused courses and dedicated college and career guidance ensure every student finds the right path.

VCS is a community where students are empowered to lead, serve, and thrive. We believe in holistic development, helping students build the character and confidence needed for adulthood through hands-on opportunities like leading in chapel, serving in the community, and participating in athletics, arts, and student government. We guide every student to discover their unique, God-given purpose, ensuring they graduate prepared to lead, serve, and make a meaningful impact in the world.

VCS’s Purposeful Approach to Preparing Young Adults

Rigorous Academics

Students are challenged with a strong academic curriculum taught through a biblical worldview, fostering both intellectual growth and spiritual discernment.

College and Career Readiness

With access to dual credit, AP courses, and college prep advising, students are equipped for success in higher education or direct entry into their chosen field.

Personal Ownership of Learning

High school students are encouraged to take responsibility for their academic progress, time management, and decision-making – skills that serve them well in life.

Deepening Faith and Identity

Through Bible classes, chapel, mentorship, and discipleship, students are challenged to make their faith their own and apply it in everyday life.

Service as a Way of Life

Community service is woven into school culture, helping students understand their responsibility to use their gifts for the good of others and the glory of God.

A Launchpad for What Comes Next

Whether pursuing college, ministry, the workforce, or service, students graduate equipped to step forward with clarity, confidence, and conviction.

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.

Core High School Classes at Valley Christian School

9th Grade
  • Physical science or Biology*
  • English
  • PE/Health
  • Algebra I or Geometry
  • Bible Class Choice

  • + 2 more electives
10th Grade
  • Biology* or Physical science
  • English
  • PE/Health
  • Foreign Language I
  • Algebra II or Geometry
  • Geography
  • Bible Class Choice

11th Grade
  • Chemistry* or Physics* or Alternative Science
  • English*
  • Foreign Language II
  • Algebra II or Pre-Calculus*
  • US History
  • Bible Class Choice

  • + 1 more elective
12th Grade
  • Chemistry* or Physics* or Alternative Science
  • English*
  • Pre-Calculus* or Calculus*
  • Government/CWP
  • Bible Class Choice

  • College & Career
  • + 1 more elective

* Indicates that the class is an AP or Concurrent College Credit class option

Bible Classes Choices

At VCS, students select one Bible course per semester, building a rich foundation of biblical understanding. Across their high school years, they will study eight different Bible classes.

  • Our Christian Adventure
    A foundational Bible class exploring God’s character, salvation, spiritual growth, and prayer to help students deepen their relationship with Christ.

  • Digging Deeper
    Students learn and practice Bible study methods to understand and apply Scripture for lifelong spiritual growth.

  • Freedom in Christ
    This course teaches students their identity in Christ and equips them to walk in truth, grace, and spiritual freedom.

  • Searching for YAHWEH
    A study of God’s unchanging character, tracing His love and grace through the Old Testament and its connection to the coming Messiah.

  • On Mission!
    A missions-focused course preparing students for a service trip to Nicaragua while studying the purpose and history of Christian missions.

  • Prophecy, End Times, and Revelation
    Students explore biblical prophecy, study Revelation, and learn how to interpret apocalyptic Scripture with wisdom and discernment.

  • Brief Books, Big God: Share It!
    A study of the Bible’s seven shortest books that highlights God’s story and culminates in students teaching what they’ve learned to elementary students.

  • What Do You Believe?
    An introduction to apologetics that helps students understand objections to Christianity and confidently defend their faith.

  • The Book of Acts
    A study of eyewitness accounts in Acts that helps students understand the early church and apply biblical truth to their own faith journey.

  • Let’s Pray
    A hands-on class where students study biblical prayers and actively practice the discipline of prayer together.

  • Heroes and Villains
    A church history course examining influential figures and movements to help students see modern issues through a biblical worldview.

  • What’s New About the New Covenant?
    A study of the New Covenant that helps students understand how life in Christ shapes faith, identity, and daily living.

High School Electives, Activities, and Athletics

Electives
  • Drama
  • Choir
  • Art
  • Band & Pep Band
  • Yearbook
  • Home Ec.
  • Construction
  • Woodworking

  • Intro to Engines
  • STEM & Coding

Extracurriculars
  • Missions & Service
  • Associated Student Body (ASB)
  • National Honor Society
  • Knowledge Bowl
  • Worship Team
Athletics
  • Cross Country
  • Basketball
  • Girls Volleyball
  • Cheerleading
  • Track & Field
  • Knowledge Bowl

Meet the VCS High School Teachers & Staff

  • Brenda DeJong

    K-12 PE & Secondary Health

    K-12 PE & Secondary Health

  • Cathy Hopson

    Bible, English & Home Economics

    Bible, English & Home Economics

  • Cynthia McHugh

    Secondary Math Teacher & Secondary Directed Studies

    Secondary Math Teacher & Secondary Directed Studies

  • George Hippe

    Junior High Science & High School Bible

    Junior High Science & High School Bible

  • Hannah Snook

    Secondary Chinese Art & Culture

    Secondary Chinese Art & Culture

  • 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 Morton

    Secondary English

    Secondary English

  • Jesse Hicks

    Spiritual Life Counselor

    Spiritual Life Counselor

  • Julie Hicks

    Secondary English

    Secondary English

  • Kelly Chadduck

    High School Bible & ASB

    High School Bible & ASB

  • Kent Tarr

    High School Math

    High School Math

  • Krisi Hopson

    High School Yearbook & Custodian

    High School Yearbook & Custodian

  • Kristi O’Rourke

    College & Career Advisor/HS Volleyball Coach

    College & Career Advisor/HS Volleyball Coach

  • Kristin Wilkinson

    Secondary Drama & History

    Secondary Drama & History

  • Linda Rykken

    High School Spanish

    High School Spanish

  • Liz Craciun

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

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

  • Marsha Tarr

    High School Chemistry

    High School Chemistry

  • Matt Barreiro

    K-12 Athletic Director/PE Teacher

    K-12 Athletic Director/PE Teacher

  • Michael Goering

    Secondary Technology/Art & Head of IT

    Secondary Technology/Art & Head of IT

  • Mick Drick

    High School Bible & History

    High School Bible & History

  • Nick Hughes

    High School Science

    High School Science

  • Rick Beach

    High School Construction & Jr. High Wood Shop

    High School Construction & Jr. High Wood Shop

  • Tom Cosby

    Intro to Engines

    Intro to Engines

  • Krisi Hopson

    High School Yearbook & Custodian

    High School Yearbook & Custodian

  • Kelly Chadduck

    High School Bible & ASB

    High School Bible & ASB

  • Kent Tarr

    High School Math

    High School Math

  • Jennifer Christensen

    Elementary Principal & Directed Studies Coordinator

    Elementary Principal & Directed Studies Coordinator

  • Marsha Tarr

    High School Chemistry

    High School Chemistry

  • Hannah Snook

    Secondary Chinese Art & Culture

    Secondary Chinese Art & Culture

  • Rick Beach

    High School Construction & Jr. High Wood Shop

    High School Construction & Jr. High Wood Shop

  • Brenda DeJong

    K-12 PE & Secondary Health

    K-12 PE & Secondary Health

  • Cathy Hopson

    Bible, English & Home Economics

    Bible, English & Home Economics

  • George Hippe

    Junior High Science & High School Bible

    Junior High Science & High School Bible

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

VCS Parent

VCS Parent

When we enrolled our son as a freshman, his writing and spelling skills tested at a 6th grade level due to a combination of learning disabilities. Within 2 years he was testing at average level for his age. He is about to graduate having made honor roll his entire senior year, and was readily accepted to his university of choice. VCS made it possible for our son to have a level of success and opportunity for a future we never dreamed was possible before.

When we enrolled our son as a freshman, his writing and spelling skills tested at a 6th grade level due to a combination of learning disabilities. Within 2 years he was testing at average level for his age. He is about to graduate having made honor roll his entire senior year, and was readily accepted to his university of choice. VCS made it possible for our son to have a level of success and opportunity for a future we never dreamed was possible before.

Crystal Stavenjord

Class of 2001

Crystal Stavenjord

Class of 2001

The challenging curriculum at VCS helped prepare me for the challenges, big and small, that I have faced in many areas of life.

The challenging curriculum at VCS helped prepare me for the challenges, big and small, that I have faced in many areas of life.

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.

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 Alum

VCS Alum

My experience at Valley Christian School was fantastic. The staff are incredibly kind and helpful. Smaller class sizes allow teachers to get to know their students better. Teachers are concerned about the wellbeing of their students and do what they can to help them succeed. I appreciate Valley Christian School and the impact they've had on my life.

My experience at Valley Christian School was fantastic. The staff are incredibly kind and helpful. Smaller class sizes allow teachers to get to know their students better. Teachers are concerned about the wellbeing of their students and do what they can to help them succeed. I appreciate Valley Christian School and the impact they've had on my life.

Kelly Welsh

Class of 2004 & VCS Parent

Kelly Welsh

Class of 2004 & VCS Parent

VCS prepared me so much for college and life. I was amazed at how unprepared a lot of my college classmates were. Students reached out to me to help write their papers, proof their papers.

VCS prepared me so much for college and life. I was amazed at how unprepared a lot of my college classmates were. Students reached out to me to help write their papers, proof their papers.

VCS Parent

VCS Parent

Our teachers love our kids. Administrative staff care and are kind. I feel so safe having my kids at VCS.

Our teachers love our kids. Administrative staff care and are kind. I feel so safe having my kids at VCS.

VCS Parent

VCS Parent

[VCS] came highly recommended by close friends.

[VCS] came highly recommended by close friends.

VCS Alum

VCS Alum

As a parent of four students and an alum, I am so appreciative of the faithful ministry of Valley Christian School. The school provides a solid biblical foundation, encourages students to live a life of service, pushes students to strive for academic excellence, and is full of loving caring staff who have blessed my family immensely. It's more like a family than an organization.

As a parent of four students and an alum, I am so appreciative of the faithful ministry of Valley Christian School. The school provides a solid biblical foundation, encourages students to live a life of service, pushes students to strive for academic excellence, and is full of loving caring staff who have blessed my family immensely. It's more like a family than an organization.

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!

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions About the VCS High School Program

Is the high school curriculum college preparatory?2025-05-22T12:37:43-07:00

Yes. Valley Christian offers a rigorous academic program that includes AP and dual credit opportunities to prepare students for college and beyond.

What elective classes can high school students choose from?2025-12-04T09:19:33-08:00

Each year, students can select from a wide range of classes—choosing a Bible course each semester and electives in trades and technology, PE and health, foreign language, the arts, and student government.

How is faith integrated into the high school experience?2025-05-22T12:38:16-07:00

Students participate in daily Bible classes, weekly chapel, and regular discipleship opportunities. A biblical worldview is integrated across all subject areas.

What is the typical class size in high school?2025-12-04T08:57:04-08:00

Our high school class sizes typically range from 10 to 25 students, allowing for strong relationships and meaningful academic and spiritual support.

Are there vocational or trade classes available?2025-12-04T09:29:29-08:00

Yes. The high school includes electives such as Woodworking, Construction and Intro to Engines, providing hands-on learning and practical skills for students exploring trades.

Have you taken a personalized tour of our campus?

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Let us show you what Valley Christian School can offer your child and your family. If these days or times don’t work for you, please call (509) 290-6428 to schedule a tour.

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