Julie Dion

Impact Christian Academy is excited to help our students reflect on their achievements and set new goals. This season provides an excellent opportunity for students to prepare academically, spiritually, and personally for the year ahead. Here are some ways we encourage our students to make the most of this time.

Goal Setting for Students

Reflecting on the past year is an essential first step for students. We encourage them to think about their accomplishments and areas for improvement. What did they excel in? What challenges did they face? This reflection sets the stage for meaningful goal setting.

At Impact Christian Academy, we teach our students to set SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goals. For example, a student might aim to improve their grades in a particular subject, participate more actively in class, or join a new extracurricular activity. Breaking these goals into manageable steps is crucial, so we encourage students to create a timeline or checklist to track their progress.

How to Stay Academically Engaged Over Winter Break

Winter break is a time for rest and rejuvenation, but it can also be an opportunity for students to stay academically engaged. We encourage a balance between relaxation and activities that keep the mind sharp.

One way to stay engaged is through reading. Educational games can also be a great way to reinforce skills in subjects like math, science, and language arts. We suggest engaging options that make learning fun.

Winter projects are another excellent way for students to stay productive. Whether it’s a science experiment, art project, or creative writing piece, anything to spark creativity.

Incorporating faith-based activities into winter break can help students grow spiritually. Reading Bible stories, participating in church services, or writing reflections on daily devotions are some activities we suggest.

New Year, New Opportunities

The new year brings exciting opportunities for students at Impact Christian Academy. We always have a range of events and programs planned to enrich our students’ academic and spiritual lives.

Our extracurricular activities continue to grow, offering something for every interest. From sports teams to music and arts programs to various clubs, we encourage students to get involved and explore their passions.

Community service projects and volunteer opportunities are integral to our school’s values. Upcoming service projects will allow students to give back to the community, fostering a sense of empathy and social responsibility.

Spiritual growth remains a cornerstone of our mission. We have events throughout the year that provide students with opportunities to deepen their faith and build a strong sense of community.

We also highlight opportunities for parent involvement. Volunteering at events or participating in parent-teacher conferences are excellent ways for parents to engage with our school community and support their children’s education.

As we step into the new year, we encourage our students and parents to take advantage of the numerous opportunities available at Impact Christian Academy. Participation in these events and programs will enhance the overall experience and contribute to a vibrant school community. With determination, faith, and support, our students can achieve great things in the coming year.

November brings with it a season of reflection, gratitude, and giving. At Impact Christian Academy, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture of altruism—a pillar that aligns perfectly with the essence of Thanksgiving. This month, we focus on nurturing the spirit of selflessness and generosity within our community, encouraging our students to give thanks and give back.

A Community of Compassion

Altruism, at its core, is about putting others before oneself, and it is a value that we strive to instill in our students daily. Through acts of kindness and a willingness to help others, we grow as individuals and as a community. November provides a unique opportunity to emphasize this value, as we celebrate Thanksgiving and recognize the importance of gratitude and giving.

Thanksgiving is a time to pause and reflect on the blessings in our lives. At Impact Christian Academy, we encourage our students to express their gratitude in meaningful ways. By acknowledging the good in their lives, students learn to appreciate what they have and become more empathetic toward others. We’ve planned several community service projects throughout the year. Our students have had the opportunity to participate in food drives, collecting non-perishable items for local food banks, helping with the community by cleaning trash up and doing landscaping work, along with partnering with Impact Church for their annual SERVE Day.

These acts of service teach our students the importance of giving back to the community and provide them with firsthand experiences of how their actions can positively impact others. Through these activities, we hope to inspire a lifelong commitment to service and altruism in our students.

Thanksgiving Luncheon: A Community Celebration

One of the highlights of our November activities is the Thanksgiving Luncheon at Impact Christian Academy on November 21. We warmly invite parents to join their children and the school community for this special occasion. This event not only strengthens our bonds but also serves as a reminder of the importance of coming together to support one another. It’s a wonderful opportunity for families to share a meal, give thanks, and celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving. Learn more about the luncheon and how to participate here.

Inspiring Future Leaders

Our mission is to develop compassionate leaders who will carry the values of altruism into the world. By integrating these principles into our daily lives and academic curriculum, we prepare our students to be thoughtful, caring, and proactive members of society. As they grow, we hope they will continue to embody the spirit of altruism, making a difference in the lives of others.

This November, as we celebrate Thanksgiving and embrace the pillar of altruism, we are reminded of the profound impact that acts of kindness and gratitude can have on our community and beyond. At Impact Christian Academy, we are committed to nurturing these values in our students, helping them to become compassionate individuals who are dedicated to serving others. May this season of thanksgiving inspire us all to give thanks and give back, creating a world filled with love and generosity.

As we settle into the school year, the initial excitement often fades, leaving students and parents grappling with the challenge of maintaining motivation. Students can struggle to stay engaged with homework and studying once the newness disappears. However, with a few strategic approaches, supportive parents can foster an academic environment where their children can thrive. Here are some tips to keep your child engaged and motivated throughout the school year.

1.Establish a Routine

One of the most effective ways to keep your child engaged in their studies is to establish a consistent routine. Setting specific times for homework and study sessions can help create a sense of normalcy and discipline. Ensure that this routine includes regular breaks to avoid burnout. A well-structured schedule not only keeps your child focused but also helps them manage their time efficiently, contributing to their success as students.

2.Create a Study-Friendly Environment

Designate a quiet, well-lit space free from distractions where they can focus on their work. Equip this area with the necessary supplies, such as pens, notebooks, and a computer. A dedicated study space signals to your child that it’s time to focus, promoting better study habits and productivity.

3.Set Realistic Goals and Rewards

Setting achievable goals can give your child a sense of direction and purpose. Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable chunks and celebrate their accomplishments along the way. This approach not only makes the workload seem less daunting but also boosts their confidence. Implement a reward system to further motivate your child.

4.Encourage Active Learning

Active learning involves engaging with the material in a hands-on way. Encourage your child to take notes, create flashcards, or teach the material to someone else. These activities enhance understanding and retention of information. Additionally, incorporating different study methods, such as group studies or educational games, can make learning more interactive and enjoyable.

5.Foster a Growth Mindset

Encourage them to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. This mindset fosters resilience and a positive attitude towards learning, helping them to overcome academic setbacks and stay motivated.

6.Stay Involved and Supportive

As a parent, your involvement is crucial to your child’s academic success. Regularly check in on their progress and assist when needed. Attend school events and parent-teacher conferences to stay informed about their performance and any areas that may need improvement. Showing interest in their education reinforces the importance of their efforts and helps them feel supported.  Our weekly newsletters can be found on the website here: https://icajax.com/parents/weekly-newsletter/. Other helpful links such as the school calendar can be found online, too.

7.Make Learning Relevant

Connecting schoolwork to real-life situations can make learning more relevant and interesting for your child. Discuss how what they are learning in school applies to everyday life or future career aspirations. This connection can spark curiosity and a deeper understanding of the material, making studying more meaningful and engaging.

8.Encourage Extracurricular Activities

Balancing academics with extracurricular activities can keep your child engaged and well-rounded. Encourage them to participate in sports, arts, or clubs that interest them. These activities provide a much-needed break from academic pressures and can help develop time management skills, teamwork, and leadership qualities.

By implementing these strategies, supportive parents can help their children navigate the academic year with enthusiasm and success. Remember, the goal is to create an environment where your child feels motivated and equipped to tackle their studies, leading to a fulfilling and productive school year at Impact Christian Academy.

At Impact Christina Academy, we believe that nurturing faith and learning go hand in hand and are integral to our core values. Our purpose is deeply rooted in providing a Christ-centered education that not only meets the academic needs of our students but also nurtures their spiritual and social development. Our commitment is to partner with our families and church to create an environment where students can thrive and be fully prepared to fulfill God’s purpose for their lives. 

The core of our educational philosophy is centered around the teachings of Jesus Christ. At Impact Christian Academy, every subject, every lesson, and every activity is infused with Christian values. We aim to provide an education that goes beyond textbooks and classrooms, and education that helps students under and embrace their faith in every aspect of their lives.  

Our curriculum is designed to integrate biblical principles into all areas of study. Whether it’s math, science, literature, or the arts, we show our students how God’s hand is present in all things. This approach not only enhances their academic learning but also helps them develop a strong moral compass and a deep understanding of their faith.  

We know that education is a collaborative effort. Impact Christian Academy works closely with our families and Impact Church to ensure that students receive consistent messages about faith and values both at home and at school. By having this partnership, we create a supportive community that encourages students to grow spiritually, socially, and academically.  

Parents are encouraged to be active participants in their children’s education. From volunteering in classrooms to engaging in school events, parental involvement is a key component of our community. We also collaborate with Impact Church to provide spiritual guidance and support, ensuring that students have access to a network of mentors and role models who can help them navigate their faith journey.  

Our goal is to prepare students to fulfill God’s purpose for their lives. We believe that every child has a unique calling and that it is our responsibility to help them discover and develop their God-given talents and abilities.  

We emphasize the importance of character development and leadership skills, encouraging students to become compassionate, responsible, and resilient individuals. By instilling a strong sense of purpose and direction, we equip our students to make a positive impact in their communities and the world. 

Impact Christian Academy is more than just a school. It is a community where students feel loved, valued, and supported. Our dedicated teachers and staff are committed to creating a safe and nurturing environment where students can explore their faith, ask questions, and grow in their relationship with God. We can help them become well-rounded individuals who are ready to fulfill God’s purpose for their lives. 

These are formative years for our students, and we want to create a solid foundation for them that they will be able to carry throughout their lives even after attending ICA. God is at the core of everything we do. Our vision is to provide a Christ-centered education that prepares students to live out their faith and fulfill their divine purpose.  

Learn more about our core values by visiting our website.