At Thunder Valley, we are committed to these unique features of a K-8 stated in our philosophy:
A kindergarten – eighth (K-8) school in SVVSD ensures a high quality education for all. This is accomplished, in part, by offering a seamless transition from kindergarten through eighth grade, as well as, building long-term relationships with students and families. K-8 educational specifications provide for both age-appropriate learning, as well as supervised opportunities for learning across grade levels.
K-8 Unique Features
A K-8 school offers a continuum of curriculum and professional development opportunities. The unique features of a K-8 school include:
- Student Achievement – A K-8 school has structures in place to provide learning environments to support high levels of student achievement. Students are able to focus on learning due to their familiarity with staff, rules and routines. Parent involvement remains high through this relationship/structure.
- Learning Opportunities – A K-8 school extends multiple opportunities to offer a variety of core classes, electives, advanced and intervention classes. This supports individual learning, flexible grouping and differentiation to meet the needs of all students.
- Student and Teacher Relationships – A K-8 school serves as the bridge between social and emotional health and academic achievement; therefore, supporting the development of the whole child. Students, teachers, staff and families are likely to build and maintain strong relationships over the course of nine years.
- Fewer School Transitions – A K-8 school serves as a nurturing and respectful place that shares a common purpose and fosters positive relationships. There is a smoother transition from elementary to middle school without having to learn a new building layout, along with new practices and procedures.
- Academic Collaboration – A K-8 school environment nurtures strong connections in which students, parents, staff and community collectively contribute to the success of each student. The structure of a K-8 school enhances teacher collaboration and articulation within and across grade levels. Teachers collaborate to plan an integrated curriculum that connects learning across a wider range of disciplines and/or grade levels.
- Modeling and Mentoring – A K-8 structure has opportunities for elementary and middle school-aged students to interact and engage in experiences between the different age groups. These strategic learning opportunities foster leadership development and provide positive role models.
- Family Involvement – In a K-8 school, parents are comfortable with the school and its staff because family members enroll in the same building. Parents and community members stay involved in the school and feel welcomed because of the relationships formed. Members of the community are valued for their contributions to the students’ well-being and achievement.