At Sheridan CCA, the rhythm of the academic year is punctuated by a rich variety of events that transform routine school days into extraordinary experiences. These gatherings—ranging from academic showcases and athletic competitions to service projects and seasonal festivals—are more than just dates on a calendar; they are the heartbeat of our community. They foster fellowship among families, provide platforms for student achievement, and reinforce the values that define a Christian education. As we look ahead at the upcoming weeks and months, we invite you to explore what’s in store, mark your calendars, and discover the many ways you can participate in the life of Sheridan.
The Annual Cycle of Celebration
The Sheridan CCA calendar is more than a list of dates; it is a carefully orchestrated journey through the seasons, each event intentionally designed to enrich the educational experience and strengthen community bonds. The school year typically begins in August with orientation sessions that welcome new families into the fold. These sessions are followed by a lively Back-to-School Night, where parents meet teachers, tour classrooms, and hear about the curriculum firsthand. Within the first few weeks, the annual Welcome Picnic invites everyone to share a meal on the lawn, an informal gathering that breaks the ice and sets a friendly, inclusive tone for the months ahead.
As autumn deepens, the campus embraces the harvest season with the much-loved Fall Festival. This event turns the school grounds into a bustling celebration featuring carnival games, face painting, a pumpkin patch, and a fiercely competitive chili cook-off judged by a panel of students and staff. It is a day when laughter fills the air and families linger long after the final game, building the relational fabric that makes Sheridan feel like a second home. Throughout the fall, classroom activities tie into the seasonal themes, and students engage in service projects such as collecting canned goods for local pantries, reinforcing the value of stewardship.
The approach of winter heralds one of the most meaningful seasons at Sheridan. The weeks leading to Christmas are filled with preparation for the Christmas Concert, a cherished tradition that showcases the musical gifts of every student. From the preschool handbell choir to the upper-grade worship band, each performance reflects hours of practice and a spirit of joy. The evening culminates in a candlelit sing-along and the lighting of the school’s Christmas tree, a moment that unites the community in the warmth of the season. These events are not just entertainment; they are an integral part of how the school imparts its faith and values.
After the holiday break, the calendar shifts toward academic and creative pursuits. The spring semester buzzes with energy: the science fair invites inquiry and innovation; the spelling bee tests linguistic skill; and the spring musical brings storytelling to life on stage. As the weather warms, Field Day gets students outdoors for a day of friendly athletic competition and team-building games. The year draws to a close with milestone ceremonies—moving-up celebrations for younger grades and a formal graduation for eighth graders—that honor each student’s growth and send them confidently into summer. Through this annual cycle, every child finds moments to shine and every family finds reasons to gather.
Academic Enrichment and Innovation
At Sheridan CCA, learning extends far beyond textbooks and worksheets. The school’s calendar is punctuated with events that spark curiosity and celebrate intellectual achievement. Among the highlights is the annual Science and Engineering Fair, a much-anticipated event where students from elementary through middle school present projects that range from volcano models to complex robotics demonstrations. The fair not only deepens scientific understanding but also hones public speaking and critical thinking skills as students explain their work to judges and visitors. It’s a night that transforms the gymnasium into a laboratory of discovery, with parents and peers marveling at the creativity on display.
Literacy takes center stage during the school-wide Reading Rally, a week-long celebration that includes author visits, book swaps, and a literary character parade. Events like these nurture a lifelong love of reading and connect students with the wider world of ideas. A particular focus for the youngest learners is the importance of developmentally appropriate practices. Sheridan’s Kindergarten Discovery Night offers parents a window into how play-based learning shapes early education—a philosophy we explore more deeply in our article The Death of Play-Based Kindergarten. By witnessing hands-on activities and engaging with teachers, families gain a profound understanding of how play fosters cognitive and social growth.
Another cornerstone is the school’s emphasis on critical thinking across all disciplines. The annual Logic and Problem-Solving Challenge invites students to tackle brain teasers, puzzles, and math olympics in a collaborative, low-stress environment. This event embodies the school’s commitment to teaching students how to think, not what to think—a principle echoed in our reflections on educational trends, such as in The Youngest Victims of Common Core. At Sheridan, academic events are designed not to induce stress but to ignite a passion for learning that lasts a lifetime.
Athletics and Outdoor Pursuits
Physical activity and teamwork are integral to the Sheridan CCA experience, and the events calendar reflects a deep commitment to healthy, active living. Each season brings its own athletic opportunities: fall soccer, winter basketball, and spring track and field. Game days are more than just competitions; they are occasions for the whole community to rally together, with sidelines filled with cheering families and enthusiastic faculty. The school’s no-cut policy ensures that every student who wants to play has a spot on the team, fostering an environment where participation and personal growth are celebrated as much as victory.
One of the most beloved annual traditions is Field Day, a full-day outdoor extravaganza held in late spring. Students compete in mixed-age teams through relays, obstacle courses, tug-of-war, and water games, earning points not just for speed but for sportsmanship and encouragement. The day culminates in an all-school picnic and the awarding of the coveted Field Day trophy, a spirited ceremony that leaves everyone exhausted but exhilarated. Field Day is a powerful reminder that joy and laughter are essential components of a well-rounded education.
For adults, the athletic calendar includes the highly anticipated Annual Golf Scramble. This fundraiser draws parents, alumni, and community supporters for a day on the greens that combines friendly competition with a shared purpose. Proceeds from the event support school programs and scholarships, making it a meaningful way to contribute while enjoying fellowship and fresh air. Whether on the athletic field or the golf course, Sheridan’s outdoor events build character, unity, and healthy habits that last a lifetime.
Celebrating the Arts
The creative arts hold a special place in the life of Sheridan CCA, and the calendar is dotted with events that illuminate the talents of every student. The spring musical is a monumental undertaking that involves not only the cast but also stage crew, set designers, and costumers—often drawing on parent volunteers and local artists. Past productions have ranged from classic tales to contemporary works, each chosen to challenge students artistically while conveying uplifting messages. The performances, held over multiple evenings, routinely sell out as the community comes out to support the young thespians.
The visual arts are equally celebrated. The annual Art Show transforms hallways and common areas into a gallery of student work, displaying paintings, drawings, sculptures, and mixed-media projects. Each piece reflects the artistic journey of its creator, from early explorations in color and shape to sophisticated compositions by older students. The show often includes interactive stations where families can create together, reinforcing the idea that art is for everyone. These events not only build confidence but also cultivate an appreciation for beauty and expression that aligns with the school’s mission to develop the whole child.
Music education is showcased through seasonal concerts, including the aforementioned Christmas Concert and a spring band and choir showcase. Students as young as kindergarten experience the joy of making music together, and many go on to participate in the school’s instrumental program. The concerts are powerful demonstrations of discipline, collaboration, and the sheer delight of performance, leaving audiences uplifted and proud. Through the arts, Sheridan students learn that creativity is a vital part of who they are and a gift to be shared with the world.
Community Building and Fellowship
While academics and activities are central, Sheridan CCA understands that a strong community is the foundation of a thriving school. That’s why the events calendar is peppered with opportunities for families to connect on a personal level. Monthly parent gatherings—informal coffee mornings, evening socials, and book clubs—create spaces for adults to build friendships and support networks. Meanwhile, all-school events like the Family Movie Night under the stars or the International Potluck Dinner celebrate the diverse backgrounds and shared values within the Sheridan family.
The annual spring season brings a concentration of fellowship events, culminating in our Spring Fundraisers. These events, which may include an auction, a fun run, or a gala dinner, are as much about community building as they are about raising essential funds. Volunteers pour countless hours into planning, and the resulting festivities embody the spirit of generosity and teamwork that defines Sheridan. The funds raised directly benefit classroom resources, technology upgrades, and tuition assistance, ensuring that every student can enjoy the full Sheridan experience.
When we come together—whether for worship, for learning, or for celebration—we are not just an audience; we are a family growing in grace, side by side.
A less formal but equally treasured tradition is the weekly community chapel, where students, staff, and often parents gather for worship and reflection. These services are open to the entire school community and provide a consistent rhythm of spiritual connection. Throughout the year, special service projects—such as assembling hygiene kits for shelters or writing letters to the elderly—extend fellowship beyond the campus walls. At Sheridan, events are never just about the moment; they are about weaving a tighter, more compassionate community.
Staying Connected
With so much happening, staying informed is key to making the most of the Sheridan experience. The school maintains a comprehensive online calendar that is updated regularly with event dates, times, and details. Parents are encouraged to subscribe to the weekly newsletter, which provides a curated look at the upcoming week’s activities along with important reminders. Additionally, the school’s social media channels offer real-time glimpses into daily life, from classroom moments to event highlights.
Deeper stories and reflections can be found on the Blog, where we explore the educational philosophies and community values that underpin our events. Whether it’s a behind-the-scenes look at a production or a teacher’s insight on the science fair, the blog enriches the experience by connecting the dots between what we do and why we do it. We invite you to bookmark the calendar, sign up for updates, and reach out to the front office with any questions. At Sheridan, every event is an open invitation to be part of something special.