Enrichment Courses

Beyond Academics

Bethel Lutheran School educates children in the academics, but also spiritually, physically, socially, and in leadership skills.  Through mission outreach, chapel, and our enrichment programs, children are taught valuable lessons that reach beyond the classroom.  All of our enrichment programs (music, physical education, art,  and computers) meet or exceed California curriculum standards.

 

 

Spanish   

Bethel offers Spanish class to the first through fifth grades which is specifically designed for young students.  The program helps develop language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing in a graudal, logical progression.

 

Music

Every student participates in weekly music class.  For the younger students  the curriculum is based on Kindermusik and emphasizes rhythm activities, singing, and musical expression.  The older elementary students' curriculum is Music Express and includes music appreciation, exploration of instruments from around the world, rhythm patterns, musical composition, and reading musical scores.  The students learn recorder, hand chimes, xylophones, and for the fifth graders, acoustic guitar

 

Library   

Our school library has two main purposes:  support the curriculum and instill an enjoyment of reading in our students.  The libarian teaches the students research skills and how to use the library.  We also have the Accelerated Reader Program (ARP) that motivates our students to read and gives diagnostic reports to teachers about each student's reading progress.

 

Computer/Technology Education   

The primary purpose of our computer-learning program is to prepare our students for the continuation of their education technologically and to meet the criterion for computer education as proscribed by the California Board of Education.  There is a strong emphasis on keyboarding skills and utilizing computer technology as a learning tool.  Students learn to use the Internet safely and to understand the basics of various computer applications.  Use of word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation programs builds skills for current and future academic success.  The program integrates classroom curriculum into lessons and lays the foundation for the skills students need as they progress into middle and high school. Specific additional challenges are often available, providing access to advanced computer processes.  We’re learning while doing and having fun along the way!

 

Art Instruction

Bethel's art lessons integrate aesthetic perception and individual creativity, along with development of skillful production and the understanding of our cultural art heritage.  The class includes art appreciation, art history, and hand-on assignments using a wide variety of art media.  Art is regularly displayed around campus and in the school office with a featured student artist each month.

 

Physical Education

Students age four through fifth grade participate in P.E. classes that reinforce positive play and cooperation.  The younger children work on motor skills, demonstrating knowledge of movement concepts and strategies for physical activities.  They also learn about physical fitness for health and performance.  The older students' curriculum is expanded with further activities and more team based and partner-based sports.

 

Mission Outreach

Throughout the school year, the students and families are invited to participate in several mission outreach opporunities.  Bethel regularly supports The American Heart Association through Jump for Heart, the Pajama Program, and Pennies for Patients, as well as Creak Clean Up with our Fourth grade class.