Philosophy and Approach
A graduate of Pacifica Christian High School will exhibit mastery of a four-year liberal arts, college preparatory curriculum, which includes not only intellectual excellence, but also Christian service.
The liberal arts are the foundation of this curriculum, “that broad course of study which . . . includes history, English, literature, art, music, pure mathematics, pure science, and foreign languages, . . . the goal of which is to teach students to read, write, calculate, and think,” (Riesen, 2002, p. 62).
Therefore, at the time of graduation, the Pacifica student will:
a) demonstrate the ability to think critically, act creatively, analyze and solve problems in a variety of disciplines, and apply these skills in everyday life.
b) demonstrate effective written, oral, technical and collaborative communication skills necessary for successfully pursuing an advanced education.
c) demonstrate the ability to analyze and synthesize information from a variety of sources and to apply that information when evaluating issues of contemporary life.
d) demonstrate time management skills and a work ethic through challenging academic programs and rigorous co-curricular participation.
e) demonstrate evidence of original authorship and academic integrity.
f) recognize the universal nature of many social problems and the responsibility to address these problems for the benefit of the human community.
g) meet or exceed all requirements to enter the University of California.
We understand that many universal themes need to be considered across disciplines. Therefore, Pacifica aims for an interdisciplinary curriculum, where these themes can be examined at a deeper level. For example, a freshman humanities course would include western civilization, world literature, and art and music history, so that students can begin to make connections between historical events and the literature, art, and music that shapes and is shaped by those historical events.
Our Head of School, administrative team, and teaching staff seek:
- To challenge students in both mind and heart, naturally and intentionally integrating academics and Christian faith.
- To focus on higher level thinking skills marked by inquiry and rhetoric, encouraging the complementary values of conviction and curiosity.
- To instill a joy and interest in learning for its own sake, viewing education as an end in itself, not a means to some other end.
- To approach learning as a pursuit of truth, realizing that all truth is God’s truth which allows for open, honest, and safe expression of all perspectives, thoughts and ideas.
- To build a foundation for each student in the Western Tradition, so that, students may understand and appreciate the intellectual, philosophical, spiritual and historical underpinnings of our society, giving them a solid foundation from which to explore the variety of ideas that make up our nation and world.
