Key Components

The Student

As a child of God, the student is the primary focus of the entire educational effort and should be loved and accepted. The purpose of Adventist education is to help students reach their highest potential and to fulfill God's purpose for their lives. Student outcomes constitute a significant guiding criterion in assessing the health and effectiveness of the school. 

The Teacher

The teacher holds a central place of importance. Ideally, the teacher should be both a committed Adventist Christian and an exemplary role model of the Christian graces and professional competencies.

Knowledge

All learning is grounded on faith in a certain set of presuppositions or worldview. The Christian worldview recognizes a supernatural as well as a natural order. Adventists define knowledge more broadly than that which is merely intellectual or scientific. True knowledge encompasses cognitive, experiential, emotional, relational, intuitive and spiritual elements. An acquisition of true knowledge leads to understanding which is manifested in wisdom and appropriate action.

Curriculum

The curriculum will promote academic excellence and will include a core of general studies needed for responsible citizenship in a given culture along with spiritual insights that inform Christian living and build community. Such citizenship includes appreciation for the Christian heritage, concern for social justice, and stewardship of the environment. A balanced curriculum will address the major developmental needs in the spiritual, intellectual, physical, social, emotional, and vocational realms. All areas of study will be examined from the perspective of the biblical worldview, within the context of the Great Controversy theme, as it promotes the integration of faith and learning.

Instruction

The instructional program of the classroom places appropriate emphasis on all forms of true knowledge. Instructional methodology will actively engage the student, give opportunity to put what is learned into practice, and be appropriate to the discipline and to the culture.

Discipline

Discipline in a Christian school is built upon the need to restore the image of God in each student and recognizes the freedom of the will and the work of the Holy Spirit. Discipline - not to be confused with punishment - seeks the development of self-control. In redemptive discipline, the student's will and intelligence are engaged.

School Life

A blended emphasis of worship, study, labor, and recreation will characterize the total learning environment, with careful attention given to balance. The campus community will be pervaded by joyful spirituality, a spirit of cooperation, and respect for the diversity of individuals and cultures.

Assessment

The Adventist school, college, or university gives clear evidence that it subscribes to an Adventist philosophy of education. Such evidence is found in the written curriculum, in teaching and learning activity, in the campus ethos, and by the testimony of students, graduates, constituents, employees, and the community at large. Assessment whether of individuals or institutions is redemptive in nature and always seeks God's high ideal of excellence.