It is in part through the related arts program that BJA seeks to fulfill its mission of “challenging students to…pursue excellence and to serve others.” These classes impart training that will be useful throughout a student’s life.
Beginning in K4 and extending through grade 12, every student has an opportunity to enhance academic learning with additional instruction in non-academic classes such as art, music, and physical education. In elementary grades the classes are called related arts classes.
The five areas of related arts taught at the elementary level are art, foreign language, media, music, and physical education. Art—including sketching, painting, and beyond—develops students’ visual skills and includes such opportunities as the Christmas trees competitions in which BJA students not only display skill but are able to point others to truth. Our foreign language is Spanish; and students learn rudimentary skills in Spanish, hopefully laying a foundation for interest in and a beginning understanding of foreign language instruction in the secondary level. Media class introduces basic computer skills and provides an opportunity for library use. In music class, students study composers, music reading, and more; and then they are able to apply their knowledge through the various music ensembles—including vocal and handbell choirs, bands, and orchestras. Physical education seeks not only to develop sports-related skills but also to promote fitness for life.
At BJA each of these classes is taught by subject specialists. In contrast, many schools must rely on classroom teachers to also carry the responsibility of teaching related arts classes.
When David was being trained in that variety of life skills, he had no idea that one day he would apply those skills as king. Likewise, many BJA students at this point in their education do not know God’s definitive plan for their lives. We do know, however, that God has a purpose for every one of us. As He leads boys and girls and young men and women toward that purpose, BJA is blessed to have a role in their preparation.