Junior High

Junior High2025-12-04T10:47:18-08:00

Navigating Change with Purpose and Truth

Junior High at Valley Christian School (grades 7–8) is a vital bridge between elementary and high school. It’s a time of deep growth – academically, socially, and spiritually – as students take greater ownership of their learning and their faith. With Christ at the center, we help students navigate this formative season with clarity, purpose, and support.

Increasing academic challenge meets Biblical truth.

How Does VCS Walk With Students Through Change?

Our Junior High program is designed to meet students where they are – growing in independence yet still needing guidance and structure. Core academic subjects deepen in complexity, and students begin rotating between specialized teachers for subjects like science, math, and English. Electives, enrichment, and extracurricular opportunities expand as students explore their God-given talents and interests.

Through daily Bible instruction, chapel, mentoring, and a strong school culture, students are encouraged to root their identity in Christ and live with integrity and purpose. This season is not just preparation for high school, it’s a chance to grow into the young men and women God is calling them to be.

Valley Christian School’s Approach to Learning in Junior High

Core Academics with Greater Depth

Students engage in rigorous instruction across math, science, language arts, and history. Courses grow in complexity, with a focus on critical thinking, writing, and real-world application.

Personal Faith Development

Daily Bible classes and weekly chapel services help students deepen their faith, ask meaningful questions, and begin to take personal ownership of their walk with Christ.

Developing Time Management Skills

Junior High is where students learn how to manage increased academic expectations. We teach organization, planning, and responsibility to help them transition smoothly into high school.

Electives that Encourage Exploration

Students choose from a growing list of electives, including music, art, drama, technology, and more – helping them discover interests and talents in a safe, supportive setting.

Christ-Centered Character and Leadership

Through classroom culture, chapels, and mentorship, students learn what it means to lead with humility, integrity, and courage. Leadership opportunities allow them to put those lessons into practice.

Digital Literacy and Technology Use

Students use technology for research, presentations, and collaboration. Alongside this, we provide instruction on responsible, God-honoring use of digital tools and media.

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Meet the VCS Junior High Teachers & Staff

  • Brenda DeJong

    K-12 PE & Secondary Health

    K-12 PE & Secondary Health

  • Cathy Hopson

    Bible, English & Home Economics

    Bible, English & Home Economics

  • Chloe McDermott

    8th PE

    8th PE

  • 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 Morton

    Junior High English

    Junior High English

  • 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

  • Kristin Wilkinson

    Secondary Drama & History

    Secondary Drama & History

  • Liz Craciun

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

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

  • Marty Smith

    Junior High Math

    Junior High Math

  • 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

  • Richard White

    Jr. High Bible, History & Science

    Jr. High Bible, History & Science

  • Rick Beach

    High School Construction & Jr. High Wood Shop

    High School Construction & Jr. High Wood Shop

  • Hannah Morton

    Junior High English

    Junior High English

  • Matt Barreiro

    K-12 Athletic Director/PE Teacher

    K-12 Athletic Director/PE Teacher

  • Marty Smith

    Junior High Math

    Junior High Math

  • Jami Backell

    K-12 Choirs & Elementary Music

    K-12 Choirs & Elementary Music

  • Chloe McDermott

    8th PE

    8th PE

  • Cynthia McHugh

    Secondary Math Teacher & Secondary Directed Studies

    Secondary Math Teacher & Secondary Directed Studies

  • Jesse Hicks

    Spiritual Life Counselor

    Spiritual Life Counselor

  • Jennifer Morton

    Secondary English

    Secondary English

  • Kristin Wilkinson

    Secondary Drama & History

    Secondary Drama & History

  • Jennifer Christensen

    Elementary Principal & Directed Studies Coordinator

    Elementary Principal & Directed Studies Coordinator

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.

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See what families are saying about Valley Christian School

Meesh Fomenko

Class of 2002

Meesh Fomenko

Class of 2002

Being surrounded by teachers who knew the Word, having Bible classes and chapels, all built a base in my life that is priceless. VCS offered strong role models and opportunities for me to grow close to God.

Being surrounded by teachers who knew the Word, having Bible classes and chapels, all built a base in my life that is priceless. VCS offered strong role models and opportunities for me to grow close to God.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Julia Hayes

Class of 2019

Julia Hayes

Class of 2019

I was able to take dual credit classes at VCS for college credit. The Writing and English programs at VCS prepared me for college. My professors are all really happy with my writing. Growing up in a Christian school environment was really good for me. It helped solidify my faith.

I was able to take dual credit classes at VCS for college credit. The Writing and English programs at VCS prepared me for college. My professors are all really happy with my writing. Growing up in a Christian school environment was really good for me. It helped solidify my faith.

Maddie Johnson

Class of 2019

Maddie Johnson

Class of 2019

My teachers knew me so well and chose to get to know me. Some teachers went as far as inviting my entire class over for pizza and games. VCS was a community where teachers were intentional, students felt included, and had a sense of belonging.

My teachers knew me so well and chose to get to know me. Some teachers went as far as inviting my entire class over for pizza and games. VCS was a community where teachers were intentional, students felt included, and had a sense of belonging.

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Learn More About Our Programs

Frequently Asked Questions

Your Guide to Junior High at VCS

What grades are included in Junior High at Valley Christian School?2025-05-22T11:59:39-07:00

Junior High includes 7th and 8th grade.

Is Bible part of the curriculum in Junior High?2025-05-22T11:59:57-07:00

Yes. Students have daily Bible instruction and attend weekly chapel. Biblical truth is integrated across subjects.

What subjects are taught in Junior High?2025-05-22T12:00:15-07:00

Core classes include math, English, science, and history. Students also participate in Bible, physical education, and various electives.

Are students taught by different teachers for each subject?2025-05-22T12:00:28-07:00

Yes. In Junior High, students move between classes and are taught by subject-specific instructors to help prepare them for high school.

What electives are available to Junior High students?2025-11-20T12:58:57-08:00

Students may choose from electives such as music, art, drama, woodworking and computer-related courses, depending on availability each year.

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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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(509) 924-9131

10212 E. 9th Avenue
Spokane Valley, WA 99206

Contact Valley Christian

Valley Christian School

Spokane Valley, WA

A Christian school for Christian families.

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