The truth behind Lodi's Seventh-day Adventist Academy and school

Although Seventh-day Adventist education has served the citizens of San Joaquin County for 100 years, local community members may not know the scope of learning that happens on the 30 acres of land at the corner of Kettleman Lane and Central Avenue.

So, I thought it was time to dispel rumors, inform and amaze readers with the truth.

1. Who we are: Lodi Academy and Seventh-day Adventist Elementary School are Christian schools with a Bible-based curriculum. The faculty and staff are dedicated to meeting the needs of our youth. We welcome students of various faiths who are interested in learning, growing and contributing to the school and local community.

2. Test results: Standardized test results indicate that graduating eighth graders and seniors performed significantly better in every subject area than their peers.

3. Accreditation: The elementary school receives accreditation through the Adventist Accrediting Association and Lodi Academy through the Western Association of Schools and Colleges. The academy also boasts a University of California-approved curriculum that offers the required courses needed for acceptance to a University of California school.

4. Teachers: The schools have a combined teaching staff of 25. Twenty-four have B.A. or B.S. degrees. Eleven have also earned their M.A. degrees. Though it is not required, 13 have additionally earned California state certification. And on top of all that, the Adventist Church requires its teachers to be denominationally certified.

5. Academic and bonding trips: Freshmen spend a week at Leoni Meadows, a camp near Placerville, as a part of their physical science program. Sophomores enjoy a week on the north coast at the Albion Biological Field Station. Every other year, juniors and seniors have the option of flying to Washington, D.C. for an exciting two-week history tour. In order to promote student bonding, the entire school goes on a short camp-out at the start of the year. Additionally, the seniors camp in Yosemite and hike Half Dome. Weeklong outdoor schools are held for sixt grade at Albion, seventh grade in Monterey, and eighth-graders become paleontologists on a dig in Nevada. Typically, the elementary students at every grade level enjoy multiple field trips each year.

6. Music programs: Both schools have skilled music directors with high expectations for their students. The academy offers choir, concert choir and band. The latter two groups perform in local churches and travel on a tour annually. The elementary school follows a comprehensive K-8 curriculum-based music program. Students in grades 5-8 can join band, choir or the hand bell choir. The musical groups perform in churches and at public venues. For the past six years, the choir has been invited to perform at the state capital inside the rotunda at Christmas time.

7. Leadership: Academy students can become class or student association officers, join the National Honor Society and work on the yearbook or newspaper staff. Elected leaders attend a five western state leadership camp to share, gain ideas, network and make new friends.

8. Spiritual growth: Students attend daily chapel services and enjoy two special weeklong spiritual series during the year with a guest speaker. Friday evening vespers programs are often available. The teens have the option of attending a grade-level weekend Bible conference. All students participate in quarterly community service projects throughout Lodi and the county. An annual mission trip is available. Eighth grade students also participate in quarterly service projects. The elementary school sponsors an annual "I Can" food drive. Last year, the students collected 3,500 cans! Many of the teachers involve their students in service projects. There are two youth pastors who spend time on campus guiding and relating with the students at both schools.

9. Sports: The sports program at Lodi Academy includes PE, varsity and junior varsity sports. The school is a member of the CIF Harvest League. The seventhand eighth-graders can play basketball, softball and flag football in a regional Christian league.

10. Home school options: If facing the prospect of helping your high school student with classes like chemistry, physics or advanced math scares you, Lodi Academy may be able to help. We offer a part-time option, which would allow your student to take up to two classes.

So, now that you know the truth, help us spread the good news about Lodi Academy and the Seventh-day Adventist Elementary School. Class starts Aug. 18. Families interested in information may call the Academy at 368-2781 and the elementary school at 368-5341. You'll be glad you did!

Denis Silber is a member of the academy's board of directors and the parent of academy graduates.