Student Life and Activities at CLA

Student life at CLA is vibrant at all levels. Students can participate in a variety of activities on and off campus, each designed to build them up and encourage them to use their God-given gifts and abilities. We encourage family involvement, too!

All of our activities and experiences help students discover new interests and use what they’ve learned in the classroom for their own personal growth. As students progress in age, their options for involvement grow, allowing them to apply their accumulated skills and energy with joy and in service to others.

A speaker addresses elementary and junior high students seated in the chapel

Daily Devotions and Chapel (All Grade Levels)

Devotions and Chapel are special times of the day to reflect, connect to one another, and connect to Jesus. During the week, devotions and chapel are held separately for elementary, junior high, and high school students. Once a week our elementary and junior high students join together for a joint chapel service. Once each quarter, our entire K-12th grade student body worships together at a Unity Service in our chapel.

A large group of students poses for a photo on a trip with a castle-like building behind them

Field Trips (All Grade Levels)

Various field trips are taken throughout the school year, tied to academic units for fun and educational opportunities outside of the classroom.

“We deeply appreciate the individualized approach at CLA and how teachers intentionally support the whole child–intellectually, spiritually, and physically. The comprehensive curriculum provides strong academics along with meaningful opportunities in fine arts and athletics. Most of all, the teachers genuinely love and care for each child and work to build real relationships with the families. The welcoming environment and strong parent involvement also create natural opportunities for families to connect, leading to lasting friendships beyond the classroom.”

Haley J., CLA Parent
Close-up of two smiling high school girls wearing California Lutheran Academy jerseys

Big Sister/Big Brother Program (Grades 9-12)

New students at CLA are assigned an upperclassman to act as an older sibling, be their guide, and help them find their way as a student at CLA. These relationships can grow into friendships that last through their time together at California Lutheran Academy.

A teacher and a young elementary student sit together at a classroom table with a workbook and markers, both smiling

Student-Led Parent Teacher Conferences (Grades 1-8)

Parent–Teacher Conferences are a valuable opportunity for families to gain deeper insight into their child’s growth, achievements, and areas for improvement. What makes these meetings especially meaningful is that students take the lead, proudly sharing their work, reflecting on their progress, and explaining how their classes and overall school experiences are going.

Grade school students work at desks in a classroom with bookshelves during the academic fair

Spring Academic Fair (Grades 1-8)

Students may participate in our interscholastic Spring Academic Fair. The Academic Fair includes competitions in:

  • Art: Different mediums such as drawing, sculpting, collages, etc. are entered into the fair with prizes awarded by grade level.
  • Music: Students may present musical numbers on the piano or other Instruments.
  • Spelling Bee: Competition by grade level.
Student council members stand together in a group in front of a tall window

Student Council (Grades 9-12)

Student Council members are elected by their peers to help plan, organize, and promote activities and programs that bring our entire student body together. They serve as a voice for their classmates, sharing ideas and addressing concerns within their respective classes. In addition, council members represent the student body when working with faculty and administration, helping ensure that student perspectives are heard and valued.

“The ability to try unfamiliar extracurriculars was a tremendous blessing. I acquired new talents and interests that I wouldn’t have been able to consider at a large public high school. The energetic community pushed me to take on as many activities as I could, and it helped me with my college applications and discovering what activities I do/don’t enjoy. I have appreciated being able to stay in God’s Word every day, as it has prepared me to be a witness in my future collegiate community.”

EB, CLA Graduate
A group of students in blue shirts sit together on blue bleachers

C-Hawk Ambassador Program (Grades 9-12)

The CLA Ambassador Program is made up of students in good standing who demonstrate outstanding leadership and reflect a strong Christian faith through their attitude and actions. As ambassadors, these students proudly represent CLA by visiting area schools, guiding groups during C-Hawk for a Day, and leading tours for prospective students and their families—helping others experience the heart of our school community firsthand.

Class officers stand in a row indoors in front of tall windows

Class Officers (Grades 9-12)

Student led elections provide opportunities for students to learn valuable leadership skills and responsibilities. These students also assist our Student Council with fun activities throughout the year as well as lead the planning of Prom (Junior Class), the Senior Class Trip, and more!

Football players in uniform and students in dresses line up on the field under the lights for homecoming

Homecoming Week (Grades 9-12)

This is a week set aside in October to celebrate the fun traditions of fall athletics. From dress up days to activities and competitions, our students enjoy the week that culminates with featured volleyball and football match-ups and a school dance where a royal court presides.

Students in jerseys and spirit wear sit together on the grass at a night event

Winter Spirit Week (Grades 9-12)

Our students celebrate the Christmas season by decorating our hallways, participating in fun dress up days (ugly Christmas sweaters and all!) and fun activities.

A student presents from a laptop beneath a screen showing a Chinese New Year slide

Chinese/Lunar New Year (Grades 9-12)

Our international students share insights into this widely celebrated New Year, highlighting traditional foods, meaningful customs, and the cultural significance of festive attire. All C-Hawks then join in the celebration through engaging, hands-on activities inspired by Lunar New Year traditions.

Come Visit Us!

The best way to see if California Lutheran Academy is a good fit for your family is to see our campus in action. During your time, you will visit our classrooms and facilities, meet our school leaders, and have all your questions answered. We are here to help as your family explores the best place for your student.