Vida Specialist Classes
Vida leans in to whole-child learning. We respect multiple intelligences and the fact that core academics are only a portion of what make up a rich school experience. All students fro TK-6th grade have access to the following programs, as well as their core academics.
Mindfulness
Mindfulness—defined by Jon Kabat-Zinn as “the awareness that emerges through paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally”—can bring reduced levels of stress and anxiety, increased focus and self-regulation, and improved academic performance and sleep. Vida utilizes games, stories, breathing exercises, and affirmations to empower students in their ability to remain present, focused, and responsive rather than reactive.
Movement
Vida’s movement curriculum utilizes dance, martial arts, swimming, sports, outdoor exploration, and games. The movement program aims to assist in proper cardiovascular and body development. Through our movement activities, students develop agility, balance, and coordination. They learn sportsmanship, cooperation, and effort. Students also have the gift of exploring our rustic campus, which allows for daily hikes up hillsides, tree climbing, and other gross motor building movement.
Fine Arts
Vida students are given the freedom to discover their creative side and express themselves through fine arts. Vida students will explore famous artists, techniques and mediums as they dive into fine arts through painting, drawing, and sculpting. Beyond final product, Vida students are encouraged to focus on the process of expressing themselves artistically. As a class, they also explore self-directed and collaborative pieces, ethics and adaptations in the world of art, methods of artistic display, and strategies for reflecting and interpreting both their own art and the art of others.
Outdoor Education
In our Outdoor Education program, students can develop a deeper connection with nature and foster an appreciation for the outdoors. Outdoor Education provides students with an opportunity to apply scientific principles to the natural world. The environment becomes the classroom and provides experiences that increase ecological awareness and allow each child to develop greater self-reliance, leadership skills, and confidence. The goal of the program is to have students study concepts in science while understanding that the partnerships humans create with one another and with natural resources are essential. Applying science concepts to the environment, providing leadership opportunities, and developing social/emotional intelligence is a blend of learning that reaches all types of learners.The Outdoor Education program lets students experience nature, develop trust in others, and build teams while practicing cooperation and group problem-solving.
Musical Theatre
Our musical theatre program ignites young performers' passion for storytelling through the magical combination of music, movement, and drama. Students develop their triple-threat abilities through age-appropriate vocal training, dance fundamentals, and character development exercises. Our process-based approach ensures that every child, regardless of experience level, builds confidence through supportive instruction and creative exploration. Beyond performance skills, students develop crucial life skills as they collaborate on scenes, support each other through challenging dance combinations, and work together to bring musical numbers to life. The program culminates in fully realized production for our entire community to enjoy!