Valley Christian Weekly News

April 22, 2025 - Issue 32

April 22, 2025: Issue 32

2024-25 Theme Verse: "I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God." Ephesians 3:17b-19

Preschool - Elementary School - Middle School - High School - Athletics - Friends of VCS

All VCS Parents are invited to the Annual Society Meeting, which will be held on Thursday, April 24, at 7:00 PM in the high school Legacy Chapel. This annual meeting includes voting for the election of board members, updates on the school year, and celebrations of important events. All school parents, faculty, and staff are encouraged to attend and vote. VCS parents are automatically VCS Society members. If you have questions about VCS Society membership, please get in touch with Marlaina Goldine at MGoldine@vcschools.org.

IMPORTANT VCS BUS INFO - This Friday, 4/25 is a half day, 11:30 AM dismissal. All buses will run their afternoon routes at 11:30 AM, NOT 2:45 PM. Buses will run their normal AM routes.

Friends of the Dumont Slope: Our next garden tending will be Saturday, April 26th, 11:00 AM-1:00 PM. We would love to have as many volunteers join us! It is helpful to bring your own garden tools. If you have any questions, please call Rob Kamstra, at 562-484-8546.

Support Grad Night 2025 AND enjoy a night off of cooking! The TACO NAZO Fundraiser will be on Monday, 4/28 from 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM! - Support the class of 2025 by eating at Taco Nazo, a school favorite! Just click on the digital link Taco Nazo and show it to the cashier upon ordering.

Defender Days Camps are back! Please visit go.vcschools.org/camps to check out the available camps and to register your student(s). Please email cchamberlin@vcschools.org with any questions.

Year End Concert Schedule! Mark your calendars and come out to support our musicians as they present their final concerts for the 25-26 school year!

Friday, 5/2, 7:00 PM - Swingin’ the Night Away - 7-12 Jazz Concert in the HS Legacy Chapel
Tuesday, 5/6, 7:00 PM - High School Spring Vocal Music Concert at BellOne Christian Reformed Church, Bellflower
Thursday, 5/8, 7:00 PM - 6th-8th Grade Choir Concert in the HS Legacy Chapel
Monday, 5/12, 7:00 PM - 5-12 Band and Handbells Concert in the HS Gymnasium
Tuesday, 5/13, 7:00 PM - 5-12 Orchestra Concert at BellOne Christian Reformed Church, Bellflower
Thursday, 5/15, 7:00 PM - Evening with the Madrigals in the HS Legacy Chapel

Only three more MOMS IN PRAYER meetings this year! It's not too late to join us - April 28, May 5 & 12. Anyone is welcome to leave prayer requests in the boxes in the school offices. Service hours can be earned. Contact Julie at julieflute@gmail.com with questions or prayer requests. Devote yourself to prayer, being watchful and thankful. Colossians 4:2

VCES Moms in Prayer meets Mondays 8:30-9:30am in the conference room off the elementary school office
VCMS Moms in Prayer meets Mondays 8:30-9:30am in Room 3
VCHS Moms in Prayer meets Mondays 8:30-9:30am in the VCHS Van Dyk Conference Room off the HS admissions office
we only meet on Mondays when school is in session

BROADWAY SHOWCASE 2025 VIDEO! The Broadway Showcase 2025 Video Recording is now on presale at https://www.vcschools.org/orderbroadwayvideo2025. Reserve your copy today!

Are you interested in providing a home to one of our amazing international students? Our HomeStay host application for the 25/26 school year is now available online. Not only do you get to bless one of these students making the brave choice to leave their home and study across the world, but you and your family get to experience their culture through them and be their safe space here in the US. Click here to apply!

VCS Employment Opportunities:

Elementary School Teacher
Middle School Teacher -7th Grade Science- Fall Semester
Middle School Robotics Exploratory Teacher Fall Semester
Elementary Counselor
Substitute Teacher
To see the full job descriptions and apply, please visit https://www.vcschools.org/employment

Preschool

Magnificent Mom will be held on Friday, 5/2 - 7:30-9:00 AM in the church friendship center. Enjoy a light breakfast with your preschooler as we celebrate Mom's. A sign-up genius will go out for donations and give Dad the opportunity to serve (parent service hours provided). We hope to see you all there!

Graduation: Children who are in Mrs. Tricia's, Mrs. Ericka's, and Ms. Jamie's classes will participate in our graduation celebration. Graduation will be held Thursday 5/15 at 6:30 PM in the Bethany Church sanctuary.

Dates to remember:

Thursday 4/24: Kindergarten Testing at Preschool Campus
Thursday, 5/15: Preschool Graduation (6:30 PM Bethany Church Sanctuary)
Thursday, 5/22: Last Day of School (Half day for ALL children, pick up at 11:45am)
Friday, 5/23-Friday, 5/30 PRESCHOOL CLOSED FOR SUMMER PREP
Monday, 6/2: First Day of Summer Preschool

Elementary School

The Kindergarten students will be going to The Aquarium of the Pacific on 4/23.

The Parent Association would love to give a heartfelt THANK YOU for your extreme generosity during Staff Appreciation Week! It simply would not have been possible to shower our amazing staff without your financial support and helping hands. This year we compiled a video so you can see how your contributions were utilized! CLICK HERE to watch. Thanks again!!

The Trot for Technology Obstacle Course and Raffle Drawing will be held on Thursday, April 24, during the school day for those who won that prize. Volunteers are needed for this event, service hours apply. Feel free to sign up for more than one spot. If you would like to volunteer, please use this SignUpGenius link. We appreciate and thank our students and families for making this fundraiser such a success!

MAPS Testing for students in grades K-6th will take place until 4/25. Testing will be at various times throughout the day depending on the classroom schedule. Please make sure your student gets a good night's rest, eats breakfast, and arrives at school on time.

Sports Day - Hot Dog Lunch - A hot dog lunch will be available for grades TK – 6 on Sports Day, Tuesday, May 20. The cost is $5.00 per lunch. Lunch includes one hot dog, chips, juice, and fruit. If you would like to order any extra hot dogs, please include an additional $2.00 per hot dog. Payment can be made either by cash or a check made payable to VCES. Please note: Choice Lunch is NOT available on Sports Day. Lunch will be served at the high school for grades 1 – 6, TK and Kindergarten students will have at the elementary campus. For your convenience, you may use this Order Form if you would like to order a hot dog lunch for your child. Please return the form with your payment by Friday, May 2.

Interested in becoming part of the Parent Association by becoming a ROOM PARENT or GRADE CHAIR for the 2025/2026 school year? CLICK HERE to fill out a survey and learn more about what each position entails. It's a great way to get involved on campus and fulfill your service hours!

The ACSI Speech Meet is Friday, 4/25. Students will be dismissed at 11:30.

6th Grade Students will be going to Science Camp April 28-30.

Superhero Spirit Day! Wednesday, April 30, students can show their school spirit by dressing up as their favorite superhero. Spirit Day is optional, if you choose not to participate, please be in uniform.

Save the Date for The Art Show & Ice Cream Social on Thursday, May 1, 6:00‐8:00 PM. This is a fun night for friends and family to come and see our children's artwork displayed at the elementary school campus, enjoy Kona Ice, and meet our great staff. We look forward to seeing you! All donations support our Art program.

No School for Kindergarten Students on 5/2 for both half-day and full-day kindergarten students, while we test next year’s kindergartners.

Registration for Summer Camp for students in K-8th grade is now open! Here is the link to sign up.

Youth Athletic Summer Camps for 2nd - 8th Grade are now available to register online. https://vcathletics.net/registrations/#!/camps/

We hope you enjoyed the changes we made to the Christmas Boutique this school year! The Parent Association has decided to remain in-house for the 2025 Boutique (vs buying from a company that picks the inventory) so if you have any suggestions for items to purchase, make, or curate, OR would like to be part of the inventory team, please email Carly Ploeger at Carlypdesignstudio@gmail.com. Our goal remains to keep the price point low, but would also love to get our VC community more involved and get moving on sourcing sooner than later to spread the workload out. Look forward to hearing your ideas!

6th Grade Families - The VCMS Orientation & Study Skills Class will be held July 28-31. In this class, incoming middle school students will learn organizational tips, iPad ins & outs, study strategies and time management. This class will also give students an opportunity to master their lockers, learn the VCMS campus, meet new friends and more! There are two sessions to choose from and classes will fill up fast. You can register your student now by clicking HERE.

Fast food lunch drop offs should only be used for birthdays and emergencies. This should NOT be a weekly or daily occurrence for your child.

LOST AND FOUND - Lost and Found items will be donated to Affordable Treasures on the last day of each month. Please have your child check for any missing items.

Pop Tabs: We are partnering with The Ronald McDonald House to help families in their time of need by collecting Pop Tabs. Students may bring in their pop tabs at any time.

Middle School

VCHS Choir Auditions & Praise Team Auditions for the 2025-26 school year will take place on Tuesday, April 22, 5:00-9:00 PM & Wednesday, April 23, 3:00-4:30 PM. Choir auditions are for Women’s Ensemble and Madrigals (advanced ensembles). The Concert Choir (beginner/intermediate ensemble) can be joined without an audition. A signup sheet is posted in the HS Music Room (C32) along with audition forms. Audition forms are also available at the MS and HS offices. You must sign up for a time slot and bring a completed audition form with you to the audition in order to be considered. Please contact Mr. Davis (ddavis@vcschools.org) for Choir Audition questions and Mr. Caleb Taylor (ctaylor@vcschools.org) for Praise Team Audition questions. We hope to see you there!

Reminder! Friday, April 25th, is a half day. Students will be dismissed at 11:30 AM. Buses will run their regular schedules at 11:30 AM.

8th Grade Graduation ticket request forms are due at the VCMS office by Monday, April 28th. The forms were sent to 8th grade families on 4/7 as an attachment to the 4th quarter email from the 8th grade team. Please contact the MS office if you have any questions.

VCHS Handbell Auditions for the 2025-26 school year are now open! Students currently in grades 8-11 are welcome to audition. Auditions require a video submission and a completed audition form. The last day to submit your audition form is Monday, May 5. Please email Mrs. Struiksma if you have any questions at lstruiksma@vcschools.org. Handbell audition link: VCHS Handbell Auditions 2025-2026

Donations are Needed for the 8th Grade Grad Dance - If anyone would like to help sponsor the 8th Grade Graduation Dance with a monetary donation, you can make checks payable to VCMS and put ‘Graduation’ in the memo. You can also donate using Venmo (@Jenna-Struiksma). Please specify ‘8th Grade Grad Donation’ in the comments. If you have something else you would like to donate please email Jenna at jrstruiksma@gmail.com. Thanks so much for your support of this fun event for our graduates!

Save the date! Thursday, May 8 at 7:00 PM - Choir Concert featuring the 6th grade choir and middle school gospel choir, VCHS Legacy Chapel.

7th Grade students will be taking their "Creation Appreciation" Field Trips on three different Fridays: May 2, May 9, and May 16. The three trips will be to Peters Canyon Regional Park in Orange for a nature hike, the Huntington Library & Gardens, and to Seal Beach for a clean-up. The order of the trips will vary depending on each student's schedule. If you would like to chaperone on any of these trips, please wait until the student schedules come out.

Youth Athletic Summer Camps for 2nd - 8th Grade are now available to register online. https://vcathletics.net/registrations/#!/camps/

VCMS - April & May At A Glance:

April 25 - ½ Day. Students dismissed at 11:30 AM
April 28 - 8th Grade Graduation ticket orders are due
April 29 - Spring Choir Concert
May 2 - 7th Grade ‘Creation Appreciation’ field trip
May 2 - Jazz Band Concert - Swinging the Night Away
May 5-6 - 8th Grade Graduation tickets can be picked up at the VCMS Office
May 8 - VCMS Preview Event at 9 AM
May 9 - 7th Grade ‘Creation Appreciation’ field trip
May 9 - 8th Grade field trip to Crystal Cove
May 12 - VCMS Spring Band/Handbells Concert
May 13 - All Orchestra Night
May 15 - VCMS Disneyland CA Adventure Field Trip - There is no school on this day for students who are not participating.
May 16 - 7th Grade ‘Creation Appreciation’ field trip
May 20 - 8th Grade picnic
May 21- 7th Grade Talent Show
May 21 - 8th Grade Graduation Day. 8th Grade students will be dismissed at 10:30 AM after graduation rehearsal. Parents are required to arrange their own transportation for their students on this day.
May 22 - 7th Grade - last day of school. ½ day, students are dismissed at 11:30 AM. Buses will run their normal routes.

8th-Grade Parents - please mark your calendars:

VCHS Check-In Days - Monday OR Tuesday, 8/4 or 8/5 - you pick a day to come in for school photos, book order pick up, buying VC Swag at the Spirit Store, iPad pick up, and more!
New Student Orientation Day - Monday, 8/11, 8:15-11:30 AM - Orientation Day for all new high school students
First Day of School - Tuesday, 8/12 will be the first full day of school for all students

High School

Signing Day! Wednesday, 4/23, 12:45 in the HS Gymnasium. There will be a short ceremony where we are celebrating 8 of our seniors who have committed to compete at the college level in their respective sports.

Defenders in Action! On Friday, 4/25 there will be a half day of school with a variety of options for high school students! General information was emailed previously on Wednesday, 4/2, for your reference. An additional email will follow with particular details depending on which option your student chose. Please communicate clearly with your students about plans for that day. If your student rides the bus to and from school, please note that the buses will run normal time on their AM routes, and then will run at 11:30 AM because of the half day. The buses will not run at 2:45 PM.

Support Grad Night 2025 AND enjoy a night off of cooking! The TACO NAZO Fundraiser will be on Monday, 4/28 from 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM! - Support the class of 2025 by eating at Taco Nazo, a school favorite! Just click on the digital link Taco Nazo and show it to the cashier upon ordering.

Senior Parents - please keep an eye on your email for important information as we count down the weeks until graduation. If you did not receive the email on Thursday, April 10 with the subject “Graduation is 6 Weeks Away” please reach out to the high school office at 562-865-0281, ext. 226 or at hsinfo@vcschools.org.

Senior Families- Save the date! Senior Blessing will take place on Monday, May 19, 7:00 PM at Bell One Christian Reformed Church in Bellflower. You won’t want to miss this special evening of worship and celebration. More details to follow.

TUX RENTAL DISCOUNT AND SCHOOL FUNDRAISER: VCHS has a partnership with Friar Tux Lakewood. VCHS students can save 25% on Suit/Tux rentals or purchases. Using code G10586 gets you the discount and raises funds for our school!

Important Dates - please mark your calendars:

Friday, April 25 - Half Day, HS Opportunity Day, Junior-Senior Banquet
Monday, August 4 or Tuesday, August 5 - VCHS Check-In Days - you pick a day to come in for school photos, book order pick up, buying VC Swag at the Spirit Store, iPad pick up, and more!
Monday, August 11, 8:15-11:30 - New Student Orientation Day - Orientation Day for all new high school students
Tuesday, August 12 - A full day of school for all students

Athletics

For a schedule of upcoming athletic events at each campus, please refer to the campus-specific athletic calendars online at the athletics website: www.vcathletics.net

Friends of VCS

Affordable Treasures Thrift Store - Call our store 562-866-0060 or schedule a pick-up on our website affordabletreasuresthrift.org.

Requested Announcements

Artesia Christian Home is seeking vendors for the May 3rd Family Market! If you're interested in participating, please email EEscobedo@achome.org or visit https://www.achome.org/family-market for more details. Spots are filling up quickly—secure yours today!

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April 14, 2025 - Issue 31

April 14, 2025: Issue 31

Preschool - Elementary School - Middle School - High School - Athletics - Friends of VCS

No School - On Friday, 4/18 and Monday, 4/21 in observance of Good Friday and Easter. We wish all of you and your families a blessed Easter weekend!

Congratulations to Valley Christian’s EPIC Robotz the winners of the Aerospace Valley Robotics Regional! This is the third win out of three competitions for EPIC Robotz! Let’s go EPIC! Next week EPIC will be competing at the world championships in Houston TX!

Defender Days Camps are back! Please visit go.vcschools.org/camps to check out the available camps and to register your student(s). Please email cchamberlin@vcschools.org with any questions.

The Blood Drive is coming back to Valley Christian! On Tuesday, April 15, from 8:30 AM-2:15 PM the American Red Cross is partnering with Service Leadership for students and adults to donate blood in the High School Legacy Chapel. Did you know that 1 pint of blood saves three lives? If you donate you will also receive 1 service hour. Students will sign up on campus. Parents please sign up using this link: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0B4BA8A62BA3FFCF8-48899171-blood We are excited to partner with you! If you have any questions, please email hcortez25@vcschools.org or scadarette26@vcschools.org

VCS Parents, please join us on Wednesday, April 16, at 3:15 PM in the VCHS Legacy Chapel. VCS will be having our joint accreditation site visit next week, April 14-16. The visiting team members representing ASC-WASC(ASC-Western Association of Schools and Colleges) and CSI (Christian Schools International) would like to meet with our school community to share major commendations. We hope to see you on 4/16 at 3:15 PM in the VCHS Legacy Chapel.

BROADWAY SHOWCASE 2025 VIDEO! The Broadway Showcase 2025 Video Recording is now on presale at https://www.vcschools.org/orderbroadwayvideo2025. Reserve your copy today!

VCS Employment Opportunities:

Elementary School Teacher
Middle School Teacher -7th Grade Science- Fall Semester
Middle School Robotics Exploratory Teacher Fall Semester
Elementary Counselor
Substitute Teacher
To see the full job descriptions and apply, please visit https://www.vcschools.org/employment

Preschool

Thank you to all those who donated to our trike-a-thon and ordered See's Candies. We were able to raise over $2,500 between the two fundraisers.

Easter Celebration and Egg Hunt: Thursday 4/17. Please see classroom teacher for more detail

Good Friday 4/18-Easter Monday 4/21: Preschool will be CLOSED

Dates to remember:

Monday 4/14: TK/Kindergarten Orientation (Elementary Campus)
Thursday 4/24: Kindergarten Testing at Preschool Campus
Thursday, 5/15: Preschool Graduation (6:30 PM Bethany Church Sanctuary)
Thursday, 5/22: Last Day of School (Half day for ALL children, pick up at 11:45am)
Friday, 5/23-Friday, 5/30 PRESCHOOL CLOSED FOR SUMMER PREP
Monday, 6/2: First Day of Summer Preschool

Elementary School

TK/Kindergarten Orientation for the 2025-26 school year will be held tonight, Monday, 4/14 at 6:30 PM: This meeting is for parents of students who will start TK or Kindergarten in August 2025. You'll meet the kindergarten teaching team as well as learn about important details, including "A Day in The Life of a Kindergartner" and kindergarten assessment.

Join VCES parents on April 17, 3:00-4:00 PM in the elementary conference room to explore ways to celebrate the many cultures represented by our student body. We will be brainstorming ideas for the 2025/26 school year. We hope to see you there!

4th Grade students will be going to the Artesia Christian Home on 4/17.

The Kindergarten students will be going to The Aquarium of the Pacific on 4/23.

MAPS Testing for students in grades K-6th will take place 4/14 through 4/25. Testing will be at various times throughout the day depending on the classroom schedule. Please make sure your student gets a good night's rest, eats breakfast, and arrives at school on time.

No School for Kindergarten Students on 5/2 for both half-day and full-day kindergarten students, while we test next year’s kindergartners.

Registration for Summer Camp for students in K-8th grade is now open! Here is the link to sign up.

Youth Athletic Summer Camps for 2nd - 8th Grade are now available to register online. https://vcathletics.net/registrations/#!/camps/

Fast food lunch drop offs should only be used for birthdays and emergencies. This should NOT be a weekly or daily occurrence for your child.

LOST AND FOUND - Lost and Found items will be donated to Affordable Treasures on the last day of each month. Please have your child check for any missing items.

Pop Tabs: We are partnering with The Ronald McDonald House to help families in their time of need by collecting Pop Tabs. Students may bring in their pop tabs at any time.

Middle School

Easter Break- NO SCHOOL- Friday, April 18-Monday, April 21.

VCHS Choir Auditions & Praise Team Auditions for the 2025-26 school year will take place on Tuesday, April 15 & 22, 5:00-9:00 PM & Wednesday, April 23, 3:00-4:30 PM. Choir auditions are for Women’s Ensemble and Madrigals (advanced ensembles). The Concert Choir (beginner/intermediate ensemble) can be joined without an audition. A signup sheet is posted in the HS Music Room (C32) along with audition forms. Audition forms are also available at the MS and HS offices. You must sign up for a time slot and bring a completed audition form with you to the audition in order to be considered. Please contact Mr. Davis (ddavis@vcschools.org) for Choir Audition questions and Mr. Caleb Taylor (ctaylor@vcschools.org) for Praise Team Audition questions. We hope to see you there!

Youth Athletic Summer Camps for 2nd - 8th Grade are now available to register online. https://vcathletics.net/registrations/#!/camps/

VCMS - April & May At A Glance:

April 18-21 - Easter Break - NO SCHOOL
April 25 - ½ Day. Students dismissed at 11:30 AM
April 28 - 8th Grade Graduation ticket orders are due
April 29 - Spring Choir Concert
May 2 - 7th Grade ‘Creation Appreciation’ field trip
May 2 - Jazz Band Concert - Swinging the Night Away
May 5-6 - 8th Grade Graduation tickets can be picked up at the VCMS Office
May 8 - VCMS Preview Event at 9 AM
May 9 - 7th Grade ‘Creation Appreciation’ field trip
May 9 - 8th Grade field trip to Crystal Cove
May 12 - VCMS Spring Band/Handbells Concert
May 13 - All Orchestra Night
May 15 - VCMS Disneyland CA Adventure Field Trip - There is no school on this day for students who are not participating.
May 16 - 7th Grade ‘Creation Appreciation’ field trip
May 20 - 8th Grade picnic
May 21- 7th Grade Talent Show
May 21 - 8th Grade Graduation Day. 8th Grade students will be dismissed at 10:30 AM after graduation rehearsal. Parents are required to arrange their own transportation for their students on this day.
May 22 - 7th Grade - last day of school. ½ day, students are dismissed at 11:30 AM. Buses will run their normal routes.

8th-Grade Parents - please mark your calendars:

VCHS Check-In Days - Monday OR Tuesday, 8/4 or 8/5 - you pick a day to come in for school photos, book order pick up, buying VC Swag at the Spirit Store, iPad pick up, and more!
New Student Orientation Day - Monday, 8/11, 8:15-11:30 AM - Orientation Day for all new high school students
First Day of School - Tuesday, 8/12 will be the first full day of school for all students

High School

No School - On Friday, 4/18 and Monday, 4/21 in observance of Good Friday and Easter. We wish all of you and your families a blessed Easter weekend!

VCHS Choir Auditions & Praise Team Auditions for the 2025-26 school year will take place on Tuesday, April 15 & 22, 5:00-9:00 PM & Wednesday, April 23, 3:00-4:30 PM. Choir auditions are for Women’s Ensemble and Madrigals (advanced ensembles). The Concert Choir (beginner/intermediate ensemble) can be joined without an audition. A signup sheet is posted in the HS Music Room (C32) along with audition forms. Audition forms are also available at the MS and HS offices. You must sign up for a time slot and bring a completed audition form with you to the audition in order to be considered. Please contact Mr. Davis (ddavis@vcschools.org) for Choir Audition questions and Mr. Caleb Taylor (ctaylor@vcschools.org) for Praise Team Audition questions. We hope to see you there!

Defenders in Action! On Friday, 4/25 there will be a half day of school with a variety of options for high school students! See the email sent out on Wednesday, 4/2 with more information. Students should use the link included in the email to sign up!

Important Dates - please mark your calendars:

Friday, April 18 - No school in observance of Good Friday
Monday, April 21 - No school in observance of Easter Monday
Friday, April 25 - Half Day, HS Opportunity Day, Junior-Senior Banquet
Monday, August 4 or Tuesday, August 5 - VCHS Check-In Days - you pick a day to come in for school photos, book order pick up, buying VC Swag at the Spirit Store, iPad pick up, and more!
Monday, August 11, 8:15-11:30 - New Student Orientation Day - Orientation Day for all new high school students
Tuesday, August 12 - A full day of school for all students

Athletics

For a schedule of upcoming athletic events at each campus, please refer to the campus-specific athletic calendars online at the athletics website: www.vcathletics.net

Friends of VCS

Affordable Treasures Thrift Store - Call our store 562-866-0060 or schedule a pick-up on our website affordabletreasuresthrift.org.

Requested Announcements

Artesia Christian Home invites you to a Lunch & Learn event on April 17th at 10 AM. Join us for a tour of our cottages and assisted living, learn more about the services we offer, and enjoy lunch on us. We currently have one two-bedroom cottage available, as well as rooms in assisted living and a few openings in memory care. Space is limited to 12 attendees, so please RSVP by emailing info@achome.org . We look forward to welcoming you!

Artesia Christian Home urgently needs VOLUNTEER DRIVERS to ensure all residents can attend bimonthly church luncheons. These luncheons occur only every other month, making this a minimal commitment—but without more drivers, fewer residents will be able to participate. The approval process takes time, so we need volunteers now to avoid limiting attendance. If your parent lives at ACH, we strongly encourage you to drive and accompany them to help alleviate the driver shortage. Please contact eescobedo@achome.org ASAP if you’re interested in becoming an approved driver!

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April 7, 2025 - Issue 30

April 7, 2025: Issue 30

Preschool - Elementary School - Middle School - High School - Athletics - Friends of VCS

Please invite your friends and family to our Preview Days this week:

Wednesday, April 9 - 9:00 AM - Elementary campus
Thursday, April 10 - 9:00 AM - Middle School campus
Thursday, April 10 - 10:00 AM - High School campus

A Night of Movie Music Concert this Friday, April 11^th, 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the VCHS Gym! This fun night will feature our 5^th to 12^th grade school bands and orchestras, performing songs from some of our favorite movie classics. You can’t have the music without the iconic movie snacks! Sign up to help out! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0D45ACA622A2F58-55716534-anight

Defender Days Camps are back! Please visit go.vcschools.org/camps to check out the available camps and to register your student(s). Please email cchamberlin@vcschools.org with any questions.

Golf Tournament: VCHS Athletic Booster Club is hosting their annual golf tournament this Friday, April 11th at Strawberry Farms Golf Course. Registration and sponsorship packages are available now at www.charityvalet.com/vcgolf25

ATTENTION GRADUATING CLASS OF 1975: You are cordially welcomed to attend, participate, and walk in our graduation ceremony joining our 2025 graduating class as our honored 50th anniversary guests on Thursday, May 22. Please let other classmates know about this opportunity. Contact Gene Bras gbras@vcschools.org to RSVP or let him know if you have any questions.

BROADWAY SHOWCASE 2025 VIDEO! The Broadway Showcase 2025 Video Recording is now on presale at https://www.vcschools.org/orderbroadwayvideo2025. Reserve your copy today!

VCS Employment Opportunities:

Middle School Teacher -7th Grade Science- Fall Semester
Middle School Academic Support Paraeducator
Middle School Robotics Exploratory Teacher Fall Semester
Elementary Counselor
HS Varsity Cheer Coach
Substitute Teacher
To see the full job descriptions and apply, please visit https://www.vcschools.org/employment
If interested, please submit a cover letter and resume to Tracie Jones, hr@vcschools.org

Preschool

Summer 2025: If you plan for your child to attend summer preschool and haven't already filled out the Google Sheet, please do so by this Friday, 4/11

Dates to remember:

Friday 4/18: Good Friday (Preschool CLOSED)
Monday 4/21: Easter Monday (Preschool CLOSED)
Thursday 4/24: Kindergarten Testing at Preschool Campus
Thursday, 5/15: Preschool Graduation (6:30 PM Bethany Church Sanctuary)
Thursday, 5/22: Last Day of School (Half day for ALL children, pick up at 11:45am)
Friday, 5/23-Friday, 5/30 PRESCHOOL CLOSED FOR SUMMER PREP
Monday, 6/2: First Day of Summer Preschool

Elementary School

5th and 6th Grade Parents - this one is for you! Our Parenting with Purpose gathering will be specifically geared for parents of 5th and 6th graders (although any parents are welcome) who are looking for insights and tips to help their student prepare for the transition to middle school. A panel of middle school parents will join us to share their perspective. Join us on April 8, 6:30-7:30 PM in the VCES Multipurpose Room.

The Kindergarten students will be going to The Aquarium of the Pacific on 4/23.

Registration for Summer Camp for students in K-8th grade is now open! Here is the link to sign up.

Youth Athletic Summer Camps for 2nd - 8th Grade are now available to register online. https://vcathletics.net/registrations/#!/camps/

6th Grade Families - The VCMS Orientation & Study Skills Class will be held July 28-31. In this class, incoming middle school students will learn organizational tips, iPad ins & outs, study strategies and time management. This class will also give students an opportunity to master their lockers, learn the VCMS campus, meet new friends and more! There are 2 sessions to choose from and classes will fill up fast. You can register your student now by clicking HERE.

Fast food lunch drop offs should only be used for birthdays and emergencies. This should NOT be a weekly or daily occurrence for your child.

The annual A Night of Movie Music Concert this Friday, April 11^th, 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the VCHS Gym! This fun night will feature our 5^th to 12^th grade school bands and orchestras, performing songs from some of our favorite movie classics. You can’t have the music without the iconic movie snacks! Sign up to help out! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0D45ACA622A2F58-55716534-anight

TK/Kindergarten Orientation for the 2025-26 school year will be held on Monday, 4/14 at 6:30 PM: This meeting is for parents of students who will start TK or Kindergarten in August 2025. You'll meet the kindergarten teaching team as well as learn about important details, including "A Day in The Life of a Kindergartner" and kindergarten assessment.

No School for Kindergarten Students on 5/2 for both half-day and full-day kindergarten students, while we test next year’s kindergartners.

LOST AND FOUND - Lost and Found items will be donated to Affordable Treasures on the last day of each month. Please have your child check for any missing items.

Pop Tabs: We are partnering with The Ronald McDonald House to help families in their time of need by collecting Pop Tabs. Students may bring in their pop tabs at any time.

Middle School

VCHS JV/Varsity Cheer Teams 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdDmb0MorQi_msyzndpWfs5VbZDlD7QpwsuRHCoMYVJxuYaCg/viewform. Tryouts will be held Monday-Wednesday April 7-9 at VCHS! Tryouts include: Two-day clinic Monday and Tuesday, 3:15-5:15 PM. Wednesday, auditions - 3:30-5:30 PM. More information will be emailed to you after you submit your application!

8th Grade Dance Meeting - Tuesday, 4/8, 7:00 PM - Come help plan the dance that will follow the 8th grade graduation! This meeting will be held in the Verhoeven College and Career Center located in the high school office building.

Our next MS Preview Event will be on Thursday, April 10 at 9:00 AM. This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in VCMS to tour our campus and learn about our programs. Tell your family and friends!

Shaved Ice Fundraiser THIS WEEK - SHAVE THE DAY! The Senior Grad Night Committee will be holding a shaved ice fundraiser during lunchtime at both the high school and middle school. High school date is Wednesday, April 9th and middle school Thursday, April 10th. Tickets are only $5.

Our annual A Night of Movie Music Concert is this Friday, April 11th from 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the VCHS Gym! This fun night will feature our school bands and orchestras from 5th to 12th grades, performing songs from some of our favorite movie classics. You can’t have the music without the iconic movie snacks! Sign up to help out! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0D45ACA622A2F58-55716534-anight

The 8th grade multicultural luncheon is coming up! The luncheon will take place on Friday, April 11th. Please refer to the email from your student’s advisement teacher with more specifics on how to prepare. Thank you for your support and willingness to share your family’s culture with us!

VCHS Choir Auditions & Praise Team Auditions for the 2025-26 school year will take place on Tuesday, April 15 & 22 from 5:00-9:00 PM & Wednesday, April 23 from 3:00-4:30 PM. Choir auditions are for Women’s Ensemble and Madrigals (advanced ensembles). The Concert Choir (beginner/intermediate ensemble) can be joined without an audition. A signup sheet is posted in the HS Music Room (C32) along with Audition Forms. Audition Forms are also available at the MS and HS offices. You must sign up for a time slot and bring a completed audition form with you to the audition in order to be considered. Please contact Mr. Davis (ddavis@vcschools.org) for Choir Audition questions and Mr. Caleb Taylor (ctaylor@vcschools.org) for Praise Team Audition questions. We hope to see you there!

7th Grade students will be taking their "Creation Appreciation" Field Trips on two different Fridays: May 2 & May 9. The two trips will be to Peters Canyon Regional Park in Orange for a nature hike and to Seal Beach for a clean-up. The order of the trips will vary depending on each student's schedule. More information will be given to students before Easter Break. If you would like to chaperone on any of these trips, please wait until the student schedules come out.

Youth Athletic Summer Camps for 2nd - 8th Grade are now available to register online. https://vcathletics.net/registrations/#!/camps/

VCMS - April & May At A Glance:

April 10 - VCMS Preview Event at 9 AM
April 11 - 8th Grade Multicultural Luncheon
April 11 - Band/Orchestra Concert- A Night of Movie Music
April 18-21 - Easter Break - NO SCHOOL
April 25 - ½ Day. Students dismissed at 11:30 AM
April 28 - 8th Grade Graduation ticket orders are due
April 29 - Spring Choir Concert
May 2 - 7th Grade ‘Creation Appreciation’ field trip
May 2 - Jazz Band Concert - Swinging the Night Away
May 5-6 - 8th Grade Graduation tickets can be picked up at the VCMS Office
May 8 - VCMS Preview Event at 9 AM
May 9 - 7th Grade ‘Creation Appreciation’ field trip
May 9 - 8th Grade field trip to Crystal Cove
May 12 - VCMS Spring Band/Handbells Concert
May 13 - All Orchestra Night
May 15 - VCMS Disneyland CA Adventure Field Trip - There is no school on this day for students who are not participating.
May 16 - 7th Grade ‘Creation Appreciation’ field trip
May 20 - 8th Grade picnic
May 21- 7th Grade Talent Show
May 21- 8th Grade Graduation Day- This is a minimum day for 8th grade.
May 22 - 7th Grade - last day of school. ½ day, students are dismissed at 11:30 AM.

8th-Grade Parents - please mark your calendars:

VCHS Check-In Days - Monday OR Tuesday, 8/4 or 8/5 - you pick a day to come in for school photos, book order pick up, buying VC Swag at the Spirit Store, iPad pick up, and more!
New Student Orientation Day - Monday, 8/11, 8:15-11:30 AM - Orientation Day for all new high school students
First Day of School - Tuesday, 8/12 will be the first full day of school for all students

High School

VCHS JV/Varsity Cheer Teams 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdDmb0MorQi_msyzndpWfs5VbZDlD7QpwsuRHCoMYVJxuYaCg/viewform. Tryouts will be held Monday-Wednesday April 7-9 at VCHS! Tryouts include: Two-day clinic Monday and Tuesday, 3:15-5:15 PM. Wednesday, auditions from 3:30-5:30 PM. More information will be emailed to you after you submit your application!

Senior Parents - please keep an eye on your email for important information as we count down the weeks until graduation. If you did not receive the email on Thursday, March 27 with the subject “Graduation is 8 Weeks Away” please reach out to the high school office at 562-865-0281, ext. 226 or at hsinfo@vcschools.org.

Shaved Ice Fundraiser this WEEK - SHAVE THE DAY! The Grad Night committee will be holding a shaved ice fundraiser next week during lunchtime at both the high school and middle school. High school date is Wednesday, April 9th and middle school Thursday, April 10th. Tickets are only $5.

Important Dates - please mark your calendars:

Friday, April 18 - No school in observance of Good Friday
Monday, April 21 - No school in observance of Easter Monday
Friday, April 25 - Half Day, HS Opportunity Day, Junior-Senior Banquet
Monday, August 4 or Tuesday, August 5 - VCHS Check-In Days - you pick a day to come in for school photos, book order pick up, buying VC Swag at the Spirit Store, iPad pick up, and more!
Monday, August 11, 8:15-11:30 - New Student Orientation Day - Orientation Day for all new high school students
Tuesday, August 12 - A full day of school for all students

Athletics

For a schedule of upcoming athletic events at each campus, please refer to the campus-specific athletic calendars online at the athletics website: www.vcathletics.net

Friends of VCS

Affordable Treasures Thrift Store - Call our store 562-866-0060 or schedule a pick-up on our website affordabletreasuresthrift.org.

Requested Announcements

The Grace Notes Community Choir invites you to join them in singing for an Easter Sunrise Service at Forest Lawn, Cypress. The service will be at 6:00 AM on Sunday, April 20. Rehearsals are on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 PM. For more information about rehearsal locations and schedules, please email Faith Rietveld at frietveld@msn.com.

Opt-In to our mailing list here.

March 31, 2025 - Issue 29

March 31, 2025: Issue 29

Preschool - Elementary School - Middle School - High School - Athletics - Friends of VCS

VCHS Handbells will perform at Disneyland on Monday, 4/7 as part of Disney's Imagination Campus at California Adventure. The group will play on the Hollywood Backlot Stage at 11:00 AM. If you have a pass to Disneyland, we invite you to come! Congratulations to these students for making the audition!

SAVE THE DATE for the annual A Night of Movie Music Concert on Friday, April 11^th, 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the VCHS Gym! This fun night will feature our 5^th to 12^th grade school bands and orchestras, performing songs from some of our favorite movie classics. You can’t have the music without the iconic movie snacks! Sign up to help out! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0D45ACA622A2F58-55716534-anight

Defender Days Camps are back! Please visit go.vcschools.org/camps to check out the available camps and to register your student(s). Please email cchamberlin@vcschools.org with any questions.

Golf Tournament: VCHS Athletic Booster Club is hosting their annual golf tournament on Friday, April 11th at Strawberry Farms Golf Course. Registration and sponsorship packages are available now at www.charityvalet.com/vcgolf25

Do you need parent service hours? If so, the High School Library is in need of some Spring Cleaning and also some light Gardening. If you would like to get those hours done, please reach out to Onnie Bomgaars at obomgaars@vcschools.org or 562-865-0281 x 242.

BROADWAY SHOWCASE 2025 VIDEO! The Broadway Showcase 2025 Video Recording is now on presale at https://www.vcschools.org/orderbroadwayvideo2025. Reserve your copy today!

VCS Employment Opportunities:

Middle School Teacher -7th Grade Science- Fall Semester
Middle School Academic Support Paraeducator
Middle School Robotics Exploratory teacher Fall Semester
Elementary Counselor
HS Varsity Cheer Coach
Substitute Teacher
To see the full job descriptions and apply, please visit https://www.vcschools.org/employment
If interested, please submit a cover letter and resume to Tracie Jones, hr@vcschools.org

Preschool

Chapel: For the remainder of the school year, chapel will be on Tuesdays - 9:15-9:45 AM. Continue to bring in your offerings as we raise money to support this summer's high school mission trip to Alaska.

Support the Scholastic Arts Society Fundraiser for scholarships by ordering a yard sign for your graduate. Signs will be customized with the name of the graduate. The cost is $30 per sign. Orders are due by 6:00 PM on Friday, April 4. https://go.vcschools.org/yardsign

See's Candies: Please consider supporting the preschool through this fundraiser. Orders are due no later than Wednesday, 4/2.

Summer sign-ups: have been emailed out to those families who responded that their child would be attending! Please fill out via google forms. Looking forward to a fun summer program!

Elementary School

The VCES teachers and staff would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Parent Association for the wonderful lunch and treats and the thoughtful ways you blessed our staff throughout the week. We also want to express our gratitude to our students and parents for the many kind and thoughtful gifts of appreciation.

Thank you to all the volunteers and parents who helped with our Trot forTechnology Day! We could not have done it with out your help. We appreciate you!

VCMS Cheer Tryouts for the 2025-26 school year will be held Wednesday-Friday, April 2-4 from 3:15-5:00 PM. For more details, please stop by the VCMS or VCES Offices to pick up an informational packet.

Join VCES parents on April 17 from 3:00-4:00 PM in the elementary conference room to explore ways to celebrate the many cultures represented by our student body. We will be brainstorming ideas for the 2025/26 school year. We hope to see you there!

6th Grade Families - The VCMS Orientation & Study Skills Class will be held July 28-31. In this class, incoming middle school students will learn organizational tips, iPad ins & outs, study strategies and time management. This class will also give students an opportunity to master their lockers, learn the VCMS campus, meet new friends and more! There are 2 sessions to choose from and classes will fill up fast. You can register your student now by clicking HERE.

Fast food lunch drop offs should only be used for birthdays and emergencies. This should NOT be a weekly or daily occurrence for your child.

Father-Daughter Luau - The Father Daughter dance is this Friday! Join us on April 4th, 6:00-8:00 PM! Turn in this form to the ES office before Friday to sign up. If you lost your flier, there are extras in the ES front office. This year’s theme is a Luau, so dads, dust off your favorite Hawaiian shirt and get ready to learn some traditional Hawaiian dances! The event will take place at the Legacy Chapel on the high school campus. Don't miss out!

No School for Kindergarten Students on 5/2 for both half-day and full-day kindergarten students, while we test next year’s kindergartners.

Fencing Class - We are excited to offer a fencing class after school on Tuesdays, until 5/6, 3:00-4:00 PM, at the elementary campus. Instructors are from the Los Angeles International Fencing Center, Orange County location. Information and registration can be found here.

Chess Wizards - The after-school chess class for students in grades K-6th will be held on Tuesdays on the VCES campus beginning April 1 - May 20, 3:00-4:00 PM. Information and registration can be found here. Information and registration can be found here.

Rocket Science - Valley Christian After-School Science Club for grades K - 5th. Eight-week classes are available on Wednesdays and Thursdays, until 5/8, 3:00-4:00 PM. Registration and information can be found here

Skatedogs Mobile Skateboard Park will be offering an 8-session class for students in K-6th at the elementary campus on Fridays, beginning 3/14. Information and registration forms may be found here. Class space is limited and early registration is recommended.

LOST AND FOUND - Lost and Found items will be donated to Affordable Treasures on the last day of each month. Please have your child check for any missing items.

Pop Tabs: We are partnering with The Ronald McDonald House to help families in their time of need by collecting Pop Tabs. Students may bring in their pop tabs at any time.

Middle School

A big ‘Thank you’ to the Parent Association and all who participated in making Staff Appreciation Week so special for us. We are thankful for your generosity and kindness!

Support the Scholastic Arts Society Fundraiser for scholarships by ordering a yard sign for your graduate. Signs will be customized with the name of the graduate. The cost is $30 per sign. Orders are due by 6:00 PM this Friday, 4/4, . https://go.vcschools.org/yardsign

VCMS Cheer Tryouts for the 2025-26 school year will be held Wednesday-Friday, April 2-4 from 3:15-5:00 PM. For more details, please stop by the VCMS or VCES Offices to pick up an informational packet.

SAVE THE DATE for the annual A Night of Movie Music Concert on Friday, April 11^th from 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the VCHS Gym! This fun night will feature our school bands and orchestras from 5^th to 12^th grades, performing songs from some of our favorite movie classics. You can’t have the music without the iconic movie snacks! Sign up to help out! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0D45ACA622A2F58-55716534-anight

VCHS Varsity Song Team 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://forms.gle/rBDKYbKXaEC8Qioy7 Tryouts will be held on Saturday April 5th at VCHS! Tryouts include: Dance clinic, 10:00-11:45 AM,15 minute break, with the audition starting at noon. More information will be emailed to you after you submit your application!

Shaved Ice Fundraiser NEXT WEEK - SHAVE THE DAY! The Grad Night committee will be holding a shaved ice fundraiser next week during lunchtime at both the high school and middle school. High school date is Wednesday, April 9th and Middle school Thursday, April 10th. Tickets are only $5.

VCMS - April & May At A Glance:

April 2-4 - VCMS Cheer Tryouts for 2025-26
April 10 - VCMS Preview Event at 9 AM
April 11 - 8th Grade Multicultural Luncheon
April 11 - Band/Orchestra Concert- A Night of Movie Music
April 18-21 - Easter Break - NO SCHOOL
April 25 - ½ Day. Students dismissed at 11:30 AM
April 28 - 8th Grade Graduation ticket orders are due
April 29 - Spring Choir Concert
May 2 - 7th grade ‘Creation Appreciation’ field trip
May 2 - Jazz Band Concert - Swinging the Night Away
May 5-6 - 8th Grade Graduation tickets can be picked up at the VCMS Office
May 8 - VCMS Preview Event at 9 AM
May 9 - 7th Grade ‘Creation Appreciation’ field trip
May 9 - 8th Grade field trip to Crystal Cove
May 12 - VCMS Spring Band/Handbells Concert
May 13 - All Orchestra Night
May 15 - VCMS Disneyland CA Adventure Field Trip - There is no school on this day for students who are not participating.
May 16 - 7th Grade Talent Show
May 20 - 8th grade picnic
May 21 - 8th Grade Graduation Day- This is a minimum day for 8th grade.
May 22 - 7th grade - last day of school. ½ day, students are dismissed at 11:30 AM.

8th-Grade Parents - please mark your calendars:

VCHS Check-In Days - Monday OR Tuesday, 8/4 or 8/5 - you pick a day to come in for school photos, book order pick up, buying VC Swag at the Spirit Store, iPad pick up, and more!
New Student Orientation Day - Monday, 8/11, 8:15-11:30 AM - Orientation Day for all new high school students
First Day of School - Tuesday, 8/12 will be the first full day of school for all students

High School

THANK YOU SO MUCH to the Parent Association and the many parents who contributed to make the Staff Appreciation Week so wonderful! The high school staff was incredibly blessed by the creativity and abundance of treats provided throughout the week!

Congratulations to Valley Christian’s EPIC Robotz the winners of the Arizona East Robotics Regional! With a record of 15-2 this is EPIC’s second regional win for this year! They also received the Autonomous Award for excellence in programming! EPIC’s next competition will be April 4-5 at the Aerospace Valley Regional! Let’s go EPIC!

Cheer on the EPIC Robotz Robotics Team at the Aerospace Valley Regional Competition in Lancaster on Friday and Saturday, April 4 and 5. Use THIS LINK to watch!

Support the Scholastic Arts Society Fundraiser for scholarships by ordering a yard sign for your graduate. Signs will be customized with the name of the graduate. The cost is $30 per sign. Orders are due by 6:00 PM this Friday, April 4. https://go.vcschools.org/yardsign

JEANS DAY FRIDAY APRIL 4th - Show your support for the class of 2025 by rocking your favorite pair of jeans for only $3.

Juniors and Seniors are invited to the Gatsby’s Golden Gala JSB aboard the “Endless Dreams” harbor cruise on April 25th from 5:30-10:30 PM. Late tickets are now available for $150 from March 31-April 2. Parents will go to the ticket purchase form here and will submit payment online. A variety of digital payment methods will be available. Because parents complete the form, there is no additional required form for VCHS students. The Guest Form is a hard copy that needs to be turned in by Wednesday, April 2nd to Mrs. Pheifer, or the guest will not be permitted to attend JSB (take note of the guest school’s spring breaks and plan accordingly for their administrator to complete the form in time to turn it in). The digital table sign-ups will be available to students who purchased tickets the week of April 7th.

VCHS JV/Varsity Cheer Teams 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdDmb0MorQi_msyzndpWfs5VbZDlD7QpwsuRHCoMYVJxuYaCg/viewform. Tryouts will be held Monday-Wednesday April 7-9 at VCHS! Tryouts include: Two-day clinic Monday and Tuesday, 3:15-5:15 PM. Wednesday, auditions from 3:30-5:30 PM. More information will be emailed to you after you submit your application!

Important Dates - please mark your calendars:

Friday, April 18 - No school in observance of Good Friday
Monday, April 21 - No school in observance of Easter Monday
Friday, April 25 - Half Day, HS Opportunity Day, Junior-Senior Banquet
Monday, August 4 or Tuesday, August 5 - VCHS Check-In Days - you pick a day to come in for school photos, book order pick up, buying VC Swag at the Spirit Store, iPad pick up, and more!
Monday, August 11, 8:15-11:30 - New Student Orientation Day - Orientation Day for all new high school students
Tuesday, August 12 - A full day of school for all students

Counselors News -

On Campus College Visits: Tuesday, April 1st - California Baptist University

Athletics

For a schedule of upcoming athletic events at each campus, please refer to the campus-specific athletic calendars online at the athletics website: www.vcathletics.net

Friends of VCS

Affordable Treasures Thrift Store - Call our store 562-866-0060 or schedule a pick-up on our website affordabletreasuresthrift.org.

Requested Announcements

Opt-In to our mailing list here.

March 17, 2025 - Issue 28

March 17, 2025: Issue 28

Preschool - Elementary School - Middle School - High School - Athletics - Friends of VCS

The Broadway Showcase Lost and Found items are waiting to be found in the high school office. These are things that were left in the Legacy Chapel from rehearsals and at the La Mirada Theater. They will be kept at the high school office until spring break.

SAVE THE DATE for the annual A Night of Movie Music Concert onFriday, April 11^th, 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the VCHS Gym! This fun night will feature our 5^th to 12^th grade school bands and orchestras, performing songs from some of our favorite movie classics. You can’t have the music without the iconic movie snacks! Sign up to help out! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/70A0D45ACA622A2F58-55716534-anight

MOMS IN PRAYER meets weekly to pray for our schools, students, teachers/staff and our own children. You are welcome! It's not too late to come weekly or occasionally. Anyone is welcome to leave prayer requests in the boxes in the school offices. Service hours can be earned. Contact Julie at julieflute@gmail.com with questions or prayer requests. Moms in Prayer International was founded by Fern Nichols in 1984 when her two eldest children started school at a public junior high and she joined with other moms to pray. Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them. Matthew 18:19-20

VCES Moms in Prayer meets Mondays 8:30-9:30 AM in the conference room off the elementary school office
VCMS Moms in Prayer meets Mondays 8:30-9:30 AM in Room 3
VCHS Moms in Prayer meets Mondays 8:30-9:30 AM in the VCHS Van Dyk Conference Room off the HS admissions office
we only meet on Mondays when school is in session

VCS Employment Opportunities:

Middle School Teacher -7th Grade Science- Fall Semester
Middle School Academic Support Paraeducator
Middle School Robotics Exploratory teacher Fall Semester
Elementary Counselor
Substitute Teacher
To see the full job descriptions and apply, please visit https://www.vcschools.org/employment
If interested, please submit a cover letter and resume to Tracie Jones, hr@vcschools.org

Preschool

Graduation photos for children moving on to TK or Kindergarten will be Tuesday 3/18. Children who do NOT attend this day may stop by between 9:00-10:00 AM to take their picture. The children can come dressed in their "Sunday best", and will wear a maroon cap with a gold tassel (picture 1), and maroon gown with cap and gold tassel (picture 2).

Support the Scholastic Arts Society Fundraiser for scholarships by ordering a yard sign for your graduate. Signs will be customized with the name of the graduate. The cost is $30 per sign. Orders are due by 6:00 PM on Friday, April 4, 2025. https://go.vcschools.org/yardsign

See's Candies: Please consider supporting the preschool through this fundraiser. Orders are due no later than Wednesday, 4/2.

Looking Ahead: Summer 2025: VCPS will be hosting an 8-week summer program - June 2-July 25 (closed June 19 and July 4). Please use the QR code sent home last week to share your summer intentions with us! Official registration link will be emailed out after Spring Break.

Elementary School

Yee- Haw, Staff Appreciation Week is here! Thank you to all who donated to make it so special for the elementary campus, we are humbled by your generosity. The PA invites you to head on over to the breezeway by the Library to see a surprise we have for the most "WANTED" staff in the West! You can also CLICK HERE for additional ways your kiddos can bless their teachers this week. We can't wait to share with you how the week goes! Ever so obliged, the Parent Association

Fast food lunch drop offs should only be used for birthdays and emergencies. This should NOT be a weekly or daily occurrence for your child.

Trot for Technology will be held on Friday, March 21, 8:15 - 11:45 AM - Each year we host a jog-a-thon fundraiser to raise money for elementary school technology. Be part of this exciting challenge and help VCES students raise $40,000.00 to fund classroom technology. Parents may help students seek pledges from family members, friends, neighbors, co-workers, etc. Donations may be made for a predetermined dollar amount or per lap with students. https://www.vcschools.org/support-the-trot Information and pledge envelopes will be sent home with students. Please join us for our annual Trot-for-Technology on Friday, March 21! Volunteers needed! Get your service hours in while supporting your kiddo! Trot for Technology Sign Up Genius

5th/6th 8:30-9:00 AM
1st/2nd 9:10-9:40 AM
3rd/4th 10:10-10:40 AM
TK/K 10:55-11:25 AM

Class Color Spirit Day Friday, March 21! Show your class spirit at the Trot for Technology by wearing the following colors by grade level: 6th-Black, 5th-Orange, 4th-Yellow, 3rd-Green, 2nd-Blue, 1st-Purple and TK/K-Red. Spirit Day is optional. If you do not wish to participate, please be in uniform.

Jersey/Sports Team Spirit Day, Monday, March 31! Sport your favorite team's jersey or a jersey from your own sports team! Spirit Day is optional. If you do not wish to participate, please be in uniform.

Spring Break Daycare registration is now open and ready on the Parent Portal! If you plan on having your child attend, please complete the registration as soon as possible. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to reach out to Rachel Robbins at RRobbins@vcschools.org

TK/Kindergarten Orientation for the 2025-2026 school year will be held on Monday, 4/14 at 6:30 PM: This meeting is for parents of students who will start TK or Kindergarten in August 2025. You'll meet the kindergarten teaching team as well as learn about important details, including "A Day in The Life of a Kindergartner" and kindergarten assessment.

No School for Kindergarten Students on 5/2 for both half-day and full-day kindergarten students, while we test next year’s kindergartners.

Father-Daughter Luau - It’s that time of year again! Mark your calendars for April 4th, 6:00-8:00 PM and join us on the HS campus for our annual Father-Daughter Dance. This year’s theme is a Luau, so dads, dust off your favorite Hawaiian shirt and get ready to learn some traditional Hawaiian dances! The event will take place at the Legacy Chapel on the high school campus. Sign-up flyers will be sent home in March. Don't miss out!

Fencing Class - We are excited to offer a fencing class after school on Tuesdays, 3/11-5/6, 3:00-4:00 PM, at the elementary campus. Instructors are from the Los Angeles International Fencing Center, Orange County location. Information and registration can be found here.

Rocket Science - Valley Christian After-School Science Club for grades K - 5th. Eight-week classes are available on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 3/13 - 5/8, 3:00-4:00 PM. Registration and information can be found here

Coding Class: Do you want your child to learn how to code? Come check out the beginner courses for newbie coders and experienced coders. Classes will be held on Thursdays, 3:00-4:00 PM, 3/13 - 4/24 at VCES. Easy, convenient, and your child will learn a valuable skill set. Limited space! Book today! Registration can be found here and a description of the class can be found here.

LOST AND FOUND - Lost and Found items will be donated to Affordable Treasures on the last day of each month. Please have your child check for any missing items.

Pop Tabs: We are partnering with The Ronald McDonald House to help families in their time of need by collecting Pop Tabs. Students may bring in their pop tabs at any time.

Middle School

Teacher & Staff Appreciation is this week March 17-21: This year's theme is "Saddle Up! Our Staff is the Best in the West!"

VCMS Orchestra and Handbells will be performing at Knott’s Berry Farm, Tuesday 3/18 at 3:30 PM.

You’re Invited!! The VCMS Science Fair will be held this Thursday, 3/20, 5:00 - 6:30 PM in the VCMS Chapel.

April Hot Lunch orders are due Friday, 3/21.

Spring Break is next week, Monday, March 24 - Friday, March 28. School will resume on Monday, March 31.

Support the Scholastic Arts Society Fundraiser for scholarships by ordering a yard sign for your graduate. Signs will be customized with the name of the graduate. The cost is $30 per sign. Orders are due by 6:00 PM on Friday, 4/4, . https://go.vcschools.org/yardsign

8th-Grade Parents - please mark your calendars:

VCHS Check-In Days - Monday OR Tuesday, 8/4 or 8/5 - you pick a day to come in for school photos, book order pick up, buying VC Swag at the Spirit Store, iPad pick up, and more!
New Student Orientation Day - Monday, 8/11, 8:15-11:30 AM - Orientation Day for all new high school students
First Day of School - Tuesday, 8/12 will be the first full day of school for all students

High School

Support the Scholastic Arts Society Fundraiser for scholarships by ordering a yard sign for your graduate. Signs will be customized with the name of the graduate. The cost is $30 per sign. Orders are due by 6:00 PM on Friday, April 4, 2025. https://go.vcschools.org/yardsign

EPIC Robotz will be competing in the Arizona East Regional Competition on March 21-22. Here is the link to watch the competition.

The Lost and Found is overflowing! Both the regular lost and found and the Broadway Showcase Lost and Found are filled with items waiting to be reunited with their owners. Everything will be cleared and donated over Spring Break, so if your student is missing something, encourage them to look for it this week!

The VCHS Orchestra along with the VCMS Handbells and Orchestra will be performing at Knott’s Berry Farm on Tuesday, March 18, 3:30 PM at the Wagon Camp Stage!

Senior Parents! Please remind your students to check out the various scholarships that are available to them made possible by generous VC alumni and supporters. The scholarships are posted as assignments in the High School Student Course in Canvas. All scholarship applications must be submitted on Canvas by Friday, 3/21 (the last day before Spring Break!)

Mark your calendars! Spring Break is March 24-28. The high school office will be closed over spring break, although voicemails and emails sent to hsinfo@vcschools.org will be checked daily.

Juniors and Seniors are invited to the Gatsby's Golden Gala JSB aboard the "Endless Dreams" harbor cruise on April 25th from 5:30- 10:30 PM. The ticket process will be digital this year starting Monday, March 17. Parents can use this link to purchase tickets and submit payment online. Regular ticket prices are $135 for students and guests from March 17-30. Late tickets are available for $150 from March 31-April 2. Because parents complete the form, there will be no additional required form for VCHS students. The Guest Form needs to be turned in by Wednesday, April 2, to Mrs. Pheifer, or the guest will not be permitted to attend JSB (take note of the guest school's spring breaks and plan accordingly for their administrator to complete the form in time to turn it in). The digital table sign-ups will be available the week of April 7th to students who purchased tickets.

VCHS JV/Varsity Cheer Teams 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdDmb0MorQi_msyzndpWfs5VbZDlD7QpwsuRHCoMYVJxuYaCg/viewform. Tryouts will be held Monday-Wednesday April 7-9 at VCHS! Tryouts include: Two-day clinic Monday and Tuesday, 3:15-5:15 PM. Wednesday, auditions from 3:30-5:30 PM. More information will be emailed to you after you submit your application!

Important Dates - please mark your calendars:

Monday-Friday, March 24-28 - Spring Break
Friday, April 18 - No school in observance of Good Friday
Monday, April 21 - No school in observance of Easter Monday
Friday, April 25 - Half Day, HS Opportunity Day, Junior-Senior Banquet
Monday, August 4 or Tuesday, August 5 - VCHS Check-In Days - you pick a day to come in for school photos, book order pick up, buying VC Swag at the Spirit Store, iPad pick up, and more!
Monday, August 11, 8:15-11:30 - New Student Orientation Day - Orientation Day for all new high school students
Tuesday, August 12 - A full day of school for all students

Counselors News -

On Campus College Visits:

Tuesday, March 18th - Hildegard College
Tuesday, April 1st - California Baptist University

Athletics

For a schedule of upcoming athletic events at each campus, please refer to the campus-specific athletic calendars online at the athletics website: www.vcathletics.net

Friends of VCS

Affordable Treasures Thrift Store - Call our store 562-866-0060 or schedule a pick-up on our website affordabletreasuresthrift.org.

Requested Announcements

The Grace Notes Community Choir invites you to join them in singing for an Easter Sunrise Service at Forest Lawn, Cypress. The service will be at 6:00 AM on Sunday, April 20. Rehearsals will be on Mondays and Thursdays at 7:00 PM starting on March 27. For more information about rehearsal locations and schedules, please email Faith Rietveld at frietveld@msn.com.

Artesia Christian Home Fundraiser: Family Market for the C.A.R.E. Fund - Saturday, May 3rd - 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM at First Artesia CRC - Artesia Christian Home will be hosting a fundraiser Family Market for the home's C.A.R.E. Fund. This event provides a cross-generational opportunity to participate in commerce and support a great cause! We would like to invite the community and all types of entrepreneurs to participate. There are vendor booth opportunities and exciting opportunity prizes to be won! This is a great chance to support our older adults and promote small businesses in our community. To become a vendor or donate a opportunity item, please contact Eden (EEscobedo@achome.org) or Kristin (KristinC@achome.org) for more information. Sponsorship opportunities are also available for local businesses and organizations to advertise.

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