Academics

Options. Lots of options. That one word sums up the variety of educational opportunities available at Alamance Christian School.
 
Whether your child plans to pursue a PhD or a career in a hands-on trade, ACS has a variety of tracks available to accommodate various educational styles and objectives. There is an advance college prep track that allows a student to focus on a particular proficiency, such as science or math, and there is also a vocational track that enables a student to finish early and hold a job. Between those two tracks you’ll find a range of combinations that can be tailored to fit your child’s interests and goals.
 
Technology is also an important differentiator in the ACS offering. Computer classes are present in grades 8-11, preparing students to use wisely the developing world of interactive media. With an up-to-date computer lab, a workstation at every teacher’s desk, and filtered hi-speed Internet, ACS is looking ahead to be sure students have a working knowledge of the technologies that will be a part of their lives.
 
ACS strives for excellence in academic pursuits, realizing that each child has a unique learning style and educational capacity. The curriculum is in keeping with the God’s Word, and the teachers seek to uphold truth and wisdom as they instruct their charges.
 
Her Calling…To Teach Christ through Science
Mrs. Marie Cardwell has taught at ACS for over 30 years. She currently teaches Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry and Anatomy.
 
“There are reasons why we do things,” she said. “From very early, we want the students to understand the logic behind why things are done a certain way. It’s not just a pragmatic reason—just because we have to get along. There is a deeper truth – our relationship to the Lord and what He expects of us. You don’t want the pragmatic to become the major reason for doing everything – it’s a more integrated approach to life.”

Mrs. Cardwell stresses that there is no aspect of the child that is not touched in some way with a positive message at ACS. Teachers have the same worldview as the parents, for the most part. While there may be some differences in the minors, the big idea is the same. “We are all created beings who are all responsible to God for our behavior,” she said. “We have a responsibility to one another beyond the secular. With Christians you take on a family relationship – it’s a brother/sister relationship.”
 
“The Lord has placed me here,” she said. “I believe that’s the calling of my life. It’s fascinating to see the Lord work in these kids’ lives. He does some marvelous things. It’s exciting.”
 
Mrs. Cardwell points out that sometimes the seed bears fruit quickly, and sometimes it comes later, which is of the Lord. He uses it when He sees fit.
 
The students receive a well-rounded education, she said. There is no aspect of any student’s life where they do not have an opportunity to develop the skills they have. “We’re small – you can always get involved and participate in some way. In larger institutions, you can get a strong education, but lack emotional and spiritual nourishment. These kids care about each other like brothers and sisters. Their sharpened by both adults and peers here.”
 
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