Solid Academic Foundation: We believe students are naturally curious and possess an innate desire to learn. Through a rigorous academic program with high expectations, we seek to develop the individual talents of our students, affirm their curiosity, and inspire them to become lifelong learners. Our curriculum meets expectations for major colleges and universities, with special attention given to GPA, SAT, ACT, and AP courses, along with TOEFL and ESL for foreign students.
Global Citizenship: We believe that when students see themselves in the greater context of the community they live in and the world, they recognize the benefits and consequences of their actions. Through meaningful service learning projects, VIA students develop a sense of empathy for others while engaging in dialog and reflection. In addition, students develop a deep appreciation of their connection with our planet and recognize that our future is tied to environmentally sound practices today.
Life Beyond Academics: Beyond intellectual rigor and high academic standards, VIA places strong emphasis in developing the whole person. Through our Life in Training program of discovery, students have the opportunity to preview numerous occupations from myriad walks of life. By encouraging students to take risks and to develop and implement ideas, we empower them to act on their entrepreneurial spirit.
Cultural Pluralism: We believe in cultural pluralism; that all cultures intrinsically hold value, and do not belong in hierarchies. For this reason, multicultural education informs our educational philosophy, where we not only respect, but also celebrate diverse cultures. A culturally responsive pedagogy and progressive school climate provide the foundation for our curricula, which connect classrooms and assignments to students' lives, building confidence and self-esteem.
Collaboration & Critical Thinking: Our understanding and base of knowledge change constantly. However, the ability to think critically and to work with people from diverse backgrounds - who reflect the world we live in - can last a lifetime. We believe our students benefit from continual collaboration with other students from diverse backgrounds, and we will encourage them to support each other's learning, leading to lasting and supportive friendships.
Continual Assessment & Improvement: At VIA, we believe that resting on our laurels is the quickest path to obsolescence. To ensure our curricula remain vital, we conduct annual assessments to continually improve our program. In addition, our staff and faculty participate in ongoing professional development to stay current on the latest pedagogy, and receive in-service training from invited specialists.
Family Involvement: Aligning with the African proverb that states, "It takes a whole village to raise a child," VIA believes similar wisdom applies to educating a well-rounded student. We view education as a partnership between students, faculty, staff, and families, each group playing a critical role. Through continual engagement and volunteer efforts, we rely on the wisdom of VIA families to support their child's learning and development.
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