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

  • 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

  • Nicholas Lallier

    Junior High Teacher

    Junior High Teacher

  • 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

  • Vera Yermola

    Directed Studies Teacher's Assistant

    Directed Studies Teacher's Assistant

  • Jennifer Christensen

    Elementary Principal & Directed Studies Coordinator

    Elementary Principal & Directed Studies Coordinator

  • 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

  • Julie Hicks

    Secondary English

    Secondary English

  • Liz Craciun

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

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

  • 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

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

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.

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.

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.

VCS Parent

VCS Parent

This is the best choice I have ever made for my son.

This is the best choice I have ever made for my son.

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.

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.

VCS Parent

VCS Parent

[VCS] came highly recommended by close friends.

[VCS] came highly recommended by close friends.

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.

VCS Parent

VCS Parent

My favorite part is the parent/teacher relationship and how welcome they make you feel. You truly feel like you are involved and not just someone at the front gate picking up after school.

My favorite part is the parent/teacher relationship and how welcome they make you feel. You truly feel like you are involved and not just someone at the front gate picking up after school.

Speak with VCS Admissions Today!

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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.

Have you taken a personalized tour of our campus?

Schedule your personal tour today!

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.

Families interested in our homeschool program are kindly asked to schedule tours by contacting Admissions via phone or email.

  • See the entire campus

  • Meet teachers and staff

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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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