At VFA our innovative programs set us apart from every school in the country by providing our students with unparalleled opportunities for personal and academic growth.
Get More Out Giving Program
Bi-weekly community service opportunities to develop a sense of service and civic engagement
Exposure to a variety of service projects and non-profit organizations in the local community
Opportunities to participate in quarterly out-of-state service trips to gain cultural exposure and make a difference in different communities
Develop skills in leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving through service projects
Foster a sense of empathy and compassion towards others through volunteering and community service.
Culture Exposure Program
Monthly trips to explore the local community and culture
Two out of state trips per year to expose students to unique work and living environments
One school mission trip to give back to communities in need
Opportunities for students to participate in cultural events and activities
A focus on developing empathy and global awareness in students
Future Funds Program
We open a bank account on behalf of the student and place money in it regularly
Our goal is for students to graduate with $10,000 in savings
Students learn financial literacy and money management skills
We offer guidance on saving for college or starting a business
The program is designed to help students build a strong financial foundation for their future
We encourage students to continue saving and investing even after graduation
Money Literacy
Financial Fundamentals: Understanding the basics of money management, including budgeting, saving, and spending wisely.
Banking and Credit: Learning how to open and manage bank accounts, understanding interest rates, and the responsible use of credit and loans.
Investment Basics: Introduction to stocks, bonds, and other investment vehicles, along with the importance of starting early.
Debt Management: Strategies for managing and paying off debt, understanding credit scores, and avoiding common pitfalls.
Smart Spending: Making informed decisions about purchases, recognizing the difference between needs and wants, and avoiding impulse buying.
Life Skills
Effective Communication: Teaching verbal and non-verbal communication skills, active listening, and how to express ideas clearly and respectfully.
Time Management: Strategies for prioritizing tasks, setting goals, and managing time effectively to balance school, work, and personal life.
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking: Encouraging analytical thinking, creative problem-solving, and decision-making in everyday situations.
Personal Responsibility: Understanding the importance of accountability, self-discipline, and the impact of one’s actions on others.
Self-Care and Wellness: Promoting physical and mental health through nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mindfulness practices.
Public Speaking/Leadership
Confidence Building: Techniques to overcome stage fright, build self-assurance, and present ideas with confidence in front of an audience.
Speech Crafting: Learning how to structure and deliver speeches effectively, including the use of persuasive language, storytelling, and rhetorical devices.
Audience Engagement: Strategies for connecting with and engaging different audiences, using eye contact, body language, and interactive elements.
Leadership Styles: Understanding various leadership styles, identifying personal strengths, and developing a leadership approach that inspires and motivates others.
Team Collaboration: Fostering teamwork and collaboration by practicing group communication, delegation, and conflict resolution in leadership roles.
Health and Wellness
Physical Fitness: Promoting regular exercise and physical activity, understanding its benefits for overall health, and creating personalized fitness plans.
Nutrition Education: Teaching the importance of a balanced diet, understanding nutritional labels, and making informed food choices for long-term health.
Mental Health Awareness: Addressing the significance of mental health, recognizing signs of stress or anxiety, and providing strategies for coping and resilience.
Sleep Hygiene: Educating students on the importance of quality sleep, creating healthy sleep habits, and understanding its impact on cognitive and physical well-being.
Substance Abuse Prevention: Providing information on the risks associated with substance use and abuse, and teaching decision-making skills to resist peer pressure.
College and Career Readiness
College Application Process: Guiding students through college applications, including essay writing, filling out forms, and understanding admissions requirements.
Career Exploration: Helping students identify career interests, explore various professions, and understand the education and skills required for different career paths.
Resume Building and Job Applications: Teaching how to create effective resumes, cover letters, and how to navigate the job application process.
Interview Skills: Providing training on interview techniques, including mock interviews, dressing for success, and how to articulate skills and experiences confidently.
Financial Aid and Scholarships: Educating students on how to apply for financial aid, scholarships, and managing the financial aspects of college education.
Academic
Project-Based Learning: Engage in hands-on projects where students create financial plans, budgets, or investment portfolios, applying theoretical concepts to practical scenarios.
Online Modules: Utilize online resources and interactive tools to learn financial literacy topics, complete assignments, and participate in virtual discussions.
Small Group Work: Collaborate in small groups to analyze case studies, solve financial problems, and present findings, fostering teamwork and communication skills.
Hybrid Approach: Combine in-person and online learning experiences, such as attending live workshops and accessing digital content, to accommodate diverse learning styles.
Assessment and Feedback: Regularly assess progress through quizzes, presentations, and project evaluations, with personalized feedback to help students improve their financial literacy skills.