Curricular Celebrations

“We want students to view curriculum not simply as a body of facts, but as something to fall in love with.”

-Headmaster Christopher Ochoa

Valor’s motto, sapientia per admirationem, points to the fundamental task of cultivating and promoting a deep sense of wonder in every student. One of the ways we immerse ourselves in our studies is by taking time to bring the books we read to life. Each kindergarten through seventh-grade student takes part in vibrant Curricular Celebrations each year in honor of the great works of literature we read and discuss. These celebrations include games, crafts, activities, costumes, and refreshments themed around one of the books those students read that year. See below for an example from each grade.

Winnie the Pooh
Kindergarten

Our young scholars play Pin the Tail on Eeyore, do a flower pollination craft, play honeycomb math games, eat yummy bear and honey-themed snacks, and pose in front of a fun photo booth.

Peter Rabbit
First Grade

We learn how to grow several kinds of vegetables, make rabbit ears, snack on fresh veggies, play garden-themed math games, and sometimes even host a real live bunny.

Greek Myths
Second Grade

Our scholars don togas, build a graham cracker-marshmallow acropolis, craft a cardboard labyrinth, dine on honeycomb, olives, and pita, make leaf wreaths, and paint ancient vases.

Little House on the Prairie
Third Grade

To enter the world of Laura Ingalls Wilder’s famous series, scholars quilt, saw logs, make Johnny cakes, wash and hang up clothes, play with Lincoln logs, and square-dance!

The Chronicles of Narnia
Fourth Grade

In honor of reading The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, students do various activities that immerse them in the world of Peter, Susan, Edmond, Lucy, Aslan, Tumnus, and the Beavers.