Julie Dion

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.  

Choosing the right educational institution for your child is a significant decision, and for families in Jacksonville, FL the choice often comes down to finding a school that not only excels academically but also instills strong moral and spiritual values. Impact Christian Academy stands out among Jacksonville Christian Schools as a beacon of nurturing students academically and spiritually with a mission centered around for core areas: academics, arts, altruism, and athletics.

Academic Excellence with a Christian Foundation

At Impact Christian Academy, we believe that education is about more than just imparting knowledge—it’s about shaping character and values. As one of the premier Jacksonville Christian Schools, our academic programs are designed to challenge students and encourage critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, all within a biblical framework. From elementary grades to high school, our curriculum integrates rigorous academics with Christian teachings, ensuring that students excel in their studies while developing a strong moral compass.

Our dedicated faculty members are committed to helping each student reach their full academic potential. Small class sizes allow for personalized attention, enabling teachers to provide individualized support and foster a deep understanding of Christian principles in every subject area.

Cultivating Creativity through the Arts

The arts play a crucial role in the development of well-rounded individuals. At Impact Christian Academy, we recognize the importance of nurturing creativity and self-expression. Our comprehensive arts programs, which include visual arts, music, and theater provide students with numerous opportunities to explore their talents and express themselves.

Among Jacksonville Christian Schools, Impact Christian Academy is known for its vibrant arts community. Our students participate in various performances, exhibitions, and competitions, showcasing their skills and creativity. Through the arts, students learn to appreciate beauty, develop discipline, and gain confidence—all while reflecting their Christian values.

Altruism: Building a Heart for Service

One of the key pillars of our mission at Impact Christian Academy is altruism. We believe that true education goes beyond the classroom and extends into the community. Our students are encouraged to develop a heart for service and to live out their faith through acts of kindness and compassion.

As part of their education, students participate in various community service projects and outreach programs throughout Jacksonville. These experiences help them understand the importance of giving back and making a positive impact in the lives of others. Impact Christian Academy’s commitment to altruism sets it apart from other Jacksonville Christian Schools, fostering a sense of social responsibility and empathy in every student.

Excellence in Athletics

Athletics are an integral part of our approach to education. Our athletics programs emphasize physical fitness, teamwork, and sportsmanship, helping students develop important life skills that will serve them well beyond the playing field. We offer a variety of sports, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, and track, with opportunities for students to compete at different levels.

Our commitment to excellence in athletics is driven by our belief that physical education is essential to the overall development of our students. Through sports, students learn the value of perseverance, discipline, and leadership—qualities that are essential for success in all areas of life.

Join Our Impact Christian Academy Family

Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions you will make for your child. At Impact Christian Academy, we are dedicated to providing an exceptional education that prepares students for success in academics, arts, altruism, and athletics. As one of the leading Jacksonville Christian Schools, we invite you to visit our campus, meet our dedicated faculty and staff, and discover the difference that Impact Christian Academy can make in your child’s life.

Contact us today to learn more about our programs. We look forward to welcoming you to the Impact Christian Academy family!

School is out of session, but that doesn’t mean the learning has to stop! Summer vacation is for relaxation, but it can also be a period of significant learning loss. At ICA, we want to help you prevent learning loss by keeping your kids engaged and learning during the summer to ensure they retain the knowledge and skills they’ve worked hard to acquire throughout the school year.

You may have a few questions: What is significant learning loss? Is this something that I should be concerned about with my child? The answer is yes – children tend to lose significant knowledge in reading and math over summer break. Children from low-income families can fall behind by as much as three months, which can affect them years into their education.

To ensure our students remain academically engaged, ICA has implemented required summer assignments in Language Arts and Math. These assignments are designed to reinforce the skills and knowledge acquired during the school year and to prepare students for the upcoming academic challenges. Assignments are due on August 6th – don’t wait until the last minute, work on your assignments now!

Here are some additional ways to maintain your child’s academic skills during the summer:

What Can Parents Do to Help? 

Make reading fun 

Incorporate reading that your children pick out and find enjoyable. Kids should have access to a wide variety of books that they enjoy reading and fully comprehend. Visit your local library and find fun reading challenges where you can earn exciting rewards. This will help keep them engaged and excited to read.

Make time for smart play

Fun games and puzzles are a great way to keep the mind sharp. Consider activities like crossword puzzles, board games, or education apps that challenge their thinking skills.

Family Activities 

Get out of the house and visit museums, historical sites, or nature reserves. These trips can provide practical learning experiences and stimulate curiosity. They off a hands-on approach to learning that can be both fun and educational.

Creative Projects 

Encourage your child to engage in creative projects, such as writing stories, building models, or conducting fun science experiments. These activities can foster creativity and critical thinking skills.

 

We are committed to supporting our students’ educational journeys year-round! By keeping kids engaged and learning over the summer, we can help prevent learning loss and set them up for success in the upcoming school year! Through ICA’s required summer assignments and various engaging activities, you can help ensure your child stays on track and continues to develop their skills and knowledge. Let’s work together to make this summer a time of growth, discovery, and joy in learning.

For more information on our summer assignments visit our website.