Jr. High History class at CMCS is not just about memorizing important dates and historical figures; students are actively engaged in higher order thinking skills based on Biblical truths, participate in engaging and hands-on lessons, learn how to take detailed and systematic notes, and apply their knowledge through rigorous academic evaluations like college-prep exams and historically-grounded argumentative essays. History class teaches students to think critically about historical and current events and be able to craft essays filled with evidence to support their claims. Our students utilize the Biblical teachings to critically analyze relevant historical events, actions, and figures; thus, training them to better evaluate real life social, political, and economic situations. Further developing them as quality Christian citizens in our world.

Best practices show that learning is best achieved through social, engaging, lessons. There is rarely a lesson in our history classes where students aren’t actively participating in hands-on learning. Whether through simulations, role playing, specifically designed games, or countless others of strategies, our history students actively participate in a fun and engrossing learning experience. There is never a boring lesson in our history classes, and your student will always remember both the fun and the purpose behind what we do. This has been shown to create deeper, more meaningful, and longer lasting connections between the students and the content matter.

Ms. Thwing is an alumna of Calvary Chapel Downey where her father served as both an administrator and pastor. This makes it especially meaningful for her to now be teaching at a school with such deep family connections. Ms. Thwing earned her Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies with minors in Biblical Studies and Psychology from Hope International University, where she also played collegiate softball. She is passionate about helping students grow both academically and spiritually. She loves reading her Bible, making memories with her children, taking photos, and playing volleyball. She feels honored to share the love of Jesus with her students each day.

Mr. Erik Tallakson graduated from Life Pacific Bible College where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biblical Studies with an emphasis in youth ministry. He has also completed a teaching credential in math from California State University, Bakersfield. His experience consists of teaching Fundamentals of Math, Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra 2, Physical Science, and Physics. He is married and has two children. His desire is that the children he is blessed to teach will receive an education that is glorifying to God.