Valley Christian Weekly News
March 31, 2025: Issue 29
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
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/
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/
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!
- 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/
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 on our Trot for Technology Day! We could not have done it without 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!
5th and 6th grade Parent - 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.
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 coming up! Join us this Friday, April 4th, 6:00-8:00 PM! Sign up fliers have been sent home with your daughter. 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!
SAVE THE DATE for the annual A Night of Movie Music Concert on Friday, April 11th, 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the VCHS Gym! This fun night will feature our 5th to 12th 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.
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.
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/
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.
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!
SAVE THE DATE for the annual A Night of Movie Music Concert on 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.
VCHS Varsity Song Team 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://forms.gle/
VCHS JV/Varsity Cheer Teams 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://docs.google.
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!
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.
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!
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/
JEANS DAY FRIDAY APRIL 4th - Show your support for the class of 2025 by rocking your favorite pair of jeans for only $3.
SAVE THE DATE for the annual A Night of Movie Music Concert on Friday, April 11th, 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the VCHS Gym! This fun night will feature our 5th to 12th 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.
Senior Families- Save the date! Senior Blessing will take place on Monday, May 19 at 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.
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 Varsity Song Team 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://forms.gle/
VCHS JV/Varsity Cheer Teams 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://docs.google.
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
Friends of VCS
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.
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!
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-
March 17, 2025: Issue 28
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
SAVE THE DATE for the annual A Night of Movie Music Concert onFriday, April 11th, 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the VCHS Gym! This fun night will feature our 5th to 12th 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.
- 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
- 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
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.
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/
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/
- 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
SAVE THE DATE for the annual A Night of Movie Music Concert on Friday, April 11th, 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the VCHS Gym! This fun night will feature our 5th to 12th 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.
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
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.
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/
SAVE THE DATE for the annual A Night of Movie Music Concert on 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.
VCHS Varsity Song Team 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://forms.gle/
VCHS JV/Varsity Cheer Teams 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://docs.google.
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/
EPIC Robotz will be competing in the Arizona East Regional Competition on March 21-22. Here is the link to watch the competition.
SAVE THE DATE for the annual A Night of Movie Music Concert on Friday, April 11th, 6:00 – 8:00 PM in the VCHS Gym! This fun night will feature our 5th to 12th 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.
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 Varsity Song Team 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://forms.gle/
VCHS JV/Varsity Cheer Teams 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://docs.google.
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
Friends of VCS
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.
March 10, 2025: Issue 27
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
- Wednesday, March 12th - 9:00 AM - Elementary Campus.
- Thursday, March 13th - 9:00 AM - Middle School Campus.
- Thursday, March 13th - 10:00 AM High School Campus
Friends of the Dumont Slope: Please join us as we continue our preparations for the next growing season, March 15th, 2:00-4:00 PM. Any questions, contact Rob Kamstra at 562-484-8546.
VCS Employment Opportunities:
- Middle School Teacher -7th Grade Science- Fall Semester
- Middle School Academic Support Paraeducator
- Middle School Robotics Exploratory teacher Fall Semester
- 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
Trike-A-Thon: All children are invited to join us this Friday, March 14 for our annual Trike-A-Thon fundraiser. This is a fun opportunity for children to trike, scoot, or bike around the parking lot while raising money for the preschool campus. A small donation from friends and family goes a long way (donation forms went home last week)! Class ride times are listed below.
- Mrs. Elionor - 9:00-9:15 AM
- Mrs. Araceli - 9:30-9:45 AM
- Mrs. Tricia - 10:00-10:15 AM
- Mrs. Jamie - 10:30-10:45 AM
- Ms. Ericka - 11:00-11:15 AM
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.
Teacher Appreciation Week: We will be celebrating our preschool teachers from March 17-21. Please click the sign up genius link and check out how you can help! Teacher Appreciation Sign Up
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).
See's Candies: Order forms went home today! Please consider supporting the preschool through this fundraiser. Orders are due no later than Wednesday, 4/2.
Elementary School
Saddle Up! Our Staff is the Best in the West!" *WE STILL NEED HELP FOR STAFF APPRECIATION WEEK!* Can you work Recess Duty on Wednesday March 19th for service hours? Are you willing to donate donuts on Monday morning March 17 to kick off the week? CLICK HERE to sign up. A big thank you to those that have already contributed, we simply cannot do this without you! Much obliged, the VC 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.
Parenting with Purpose: Tomorrow, Tuesday, March 11 - 3:00 - 4:00 PM at VCES in Room 19. Many parents of students with ADHD or those wondering if their child might have traits of ADHD are looking for community and support. Some parents are new to the ADHD diagnosis, others are in the process of getting their child assessed, while others have already had their child diagnosed and can offer tips and tricks. We will discuss the highs and lows of ADHD; what works and what doesn't. Parents will share resources and strategies together facilitated by VCES 4th Grade Teacher, Mrs. Haugh and VCES Counselor, Mrs. Stahl. You are welcome to pay for an hour of childcare at VCES Daycare for your school-aged children if you need a place for them. RSVP to sstahl@vcschools.org.
Executive Functioning Skills Group for 4th-6th Graders! - Is your child always misplacing their things, forgetting assignments, or struggling to stay organized? Does their backpack look more like a disaster zone than a school bag? Mrs. Stahl is offering a fun and interactive after-school enrichment group designed to help 4th-6th graders develop critical executive functioning skills such as organization, time management, planning, emotional regulation and creative thinking. Through engaging activities like scavenger hunts, hands-on challenges, and even a smoothie-making competition, your child will practice these skills in a supportive and enjoyable environment. These skills are essential for academic, social, and emotional success! When: Mondays, March 17, 31 April 7, 14 and 28, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM. Cost: $50 (includes all supplies) Space is limited to 20 students - Sign up by March 12th in the front office.
The Multiage Class will be going to the Natural History Museum on Thursday, March 13.
Walk Through the Revolution for 5th grade students will be held on our high school campus on Monday, March 17.
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/
- 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
Spirit Day - St. Parick's Day March 17! - Let's go Green! Dress in your favorite green attire. This is optional, if you do not wish to participate, please be in uniform.
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.
Girls Flag Football and Boys Volleyball Tryouts will be held today, March 10th and Wednesday, March 12th, 3:00 - 4:30 PM. Please be aware that cuts will be made and that there is only one team for each sport. A mandatory parent meeting is on Wednesday, March 12th at 4:00 PM. This meeting is held before the teams are made because of all the information that is needed to be shared before making a commitment to the team. This season runs from the end of March until mid-May. In addition, we are still in need of an adult Girls Flag Football coach. This is a paid position. If you are interested or would like more information regarding the program, please email Danette Teays at dteays@vcschools.org
LEMONADE! The 1st and 2nd grade musical will be March 11th at Bell One CRC located at 17603 Ardmore Ave., Bellflower. There will be two performances of the same show presented by two separate groups. The first group will begin at 6:30 PM and the second group will begin at 7:30 PM. Please join us for a funny musical using the tragedies of nursery rhyme characters.
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
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!
Spring Enrichment Classes:
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
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.
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
8th Grade Parents! TONIGHT (3/10) is High School Registration Night at 7:00 PM in the VCHS Gymnasium. Students and parents are encouraged to attend - sign up for classes, meet coaches, staff, extra-curricular mentors, and more! We look forward to seeing you there!
8th-Grade Parents - please mark your calendars:
- VCHS Registration Night - Monday, 3/10/25, 7:00 PM, VCHS Gymnasium - sign up for classes, meet coaches, staff, extra-curricular mentors, and more! This night is important for students and parents - we look forward to seeing you there!
- VCHS Check-In Days - Monday OR Tuesday, 8/4/25 or 8/5/25 - 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, 8/11/2025, 8:15-11:30 AM - Orientation Day for all new high school students
- First Day of School - Tuesday, 8/12/2025 will be the first full day of school for all students
The next VCMS Preview Event is this Thursday, 3/13 at 9:00 AM. Tell your friends and family! This is a great opportunity for them to tour our campus and hear all about the programs that VCMS has to offer.
Dress Code Reminder: Parents, it is that time of year when your students have grown and their uniforms may need to be updated. Please take a moment to check your students' wardrobe to make sure their uniforms are fitting properly and have not become too small/short. For a full description of our dress code requirements, please see the Dress Code section of our Student Handbook, which can be found in the Parent Portal.
If you would like to purchase a uniform from our new vendor, Norman’s Uniforms, click here.
We appreciate you partnering with us to ensure that our students are dressed appropriately for school.
Teacher & Staff Appreciation week March 17-21: This year's theme is "Saddle Up! Our Staff is the Best in the West!" Please use the Sign Up Genius to see how you can help us bless the middle school staff https://www.signupgenius.com/
VCHS Varsity Song Team 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://forms.gle/
VCHS JV/Varsity Cheer Teams 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://docs.google.
Save The Date! The VCMS Science Fair will be held on Thursday, 3/20, 5:00 - 6:30 PM in the VCMS Chapel.
PARENT SERVICE HOUR OPPORTUNITY: Science Fair Judges are needed on Wednesday, 3/19, 6:00 - 8:30 PM: We are looking for men and women who work in the field of science to help judge science fair projects. Please contact Morgan McLurg at mmclurg@vcschools.org for more information.
High School
We are honored to celebrate our teachers for Teacher Appreciation Week, Monday, March 17 to Friday, March 21. If you would like to donate an item to bless our staff, please sign up here. There are also opportunities for service hours on the sign up genius during the Teacher Appreciation luncheon on Friday. Thank you for your generosity!
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!)
VCHS Varsity Song Team 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://forms.gle/
VCHS JV/Varsity Cheer Teams 2025-26 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://docs.google.
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
Students, join us for "Career Slices" tomorrow, Tuesday, March 11 at lunch in the VCCC. Get a piece of pizza and come hear from two members of the LAFD - Adam Granados from VCHS class of 2016 and Bryan Newon (Mrs. Newon's husband). The first 20 students to RSVP with their counselor will get a free piece of pizza!
Athletics
Friends of VCS
Requested Announcements
Tim Becksvoort (former VCHS Math and Bible teacher) is leading a trip to Israel this July! If you are interested in signing up or have any questions, please email Michelle Becksvoort at mbecksvoort@
KNOWN - KNOWN BY NAME. FOR A PURPOSE - You are invited to the 2025 Artesia - Bellflower - Cerritos (ABC) Young Life Fundraising Banquet this Friday, March 14 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Imago Dei Church In Bellflower. Please come and enjoy a fun evening of a Mexican Dinner, meet our ABC Young Life kids, and hear about introducing adolescents to Jesus Christ right here in our community! This is a fundraising event and the ministry has financial needs. Please come help support our worthy ministry. For more details please sign up at this link or contact Johann Reed at (209) 639-0119 or Jeff Westra at (562) 824-2063 (cell).
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.
March 3, 2025: Issue 26
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
Congratulations EPIC Robotz winners of the Orange County Regional Competition! EPIC went undefeated in the playoffs to win a place in the World Championships in Houston! Go EPIC!
The Spirit Store will be open on Monday, 3/10, 6:30-8:30 PM. The Spirit Store sells VC t-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets, hats, and socks. It is located on the high school campus in room B23. Cash, check, and digital payments are accepted. If those times do not work for you, but you need to do some shopping for school clothes, please email Alyson Hogan at spiritstore@vcschools.org.
25/26 RE-ENROLLMENT: The re-enrollment email was sent out on Monday, 2/3. If you didn't receive it, please email Ana Menendez at amenendez@vcschools.org. Th
Parent Service Hour Opportunity - We are looking for parent volunteers to serve as we host the SCSBOA Band & Orchestra Festival on Tuesday, March 11. This event is being held on the VCHS campus and there are volunteer time slots available from 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM. If you are interested in signing up, please email Cheryl Chamberlin at cchamberlin@vcschools.org. Thank you in advance!
Tickets for Broadway Showcase 2025 are on sale now through the La Mirada Theatre Box Office. The shows will be this Thursday, 3/6 and Friday, 3/7. Tickets can be purchased via the La Mirada Theatre website, by phone, or in person at the theatre box office. Visit www.vcschools.org/broadway for more information!
Broadway Showcase Parents: Thanks to the many who have already signed up to volunteer for rehearsals and shows. You can volunteer through the Canvas page or here: Volunteer Opportunities
VCS Employment Opportunities:
- Dean of Students for High School
- Preschool Substitute Teacher
- 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
Read Across America - Dr. Seuss Week is filled with dress-up days and lots of fun:
- Monday 3/3: Fox in Socks (Wear FUN socks)
- Tuesday 3/4: Dr. Seuss Sleep Book (Wear your Pajamas)
- Wednesday 3/5: Wacky Wednesdays (Wacky dress up)
- Thursday 3/6: Cat In The Hat (Thing 1 and Thing 2)
Reminder: Preschool will be CLOSED on Friday, March 7th
Spring Break Sign Ups: Preschool will be open for spring break from March 24-28. If you plan for your child to attend, you must fill out the form and submit it to the preschool office by Wednesday, March 5th. We will be open from 7:30 AM-5:00 PM each day.
Trike-A-Thon: All children are invited to join us on Friday, March 14 for our annual Trike-A-Thon fundraiser. This is a fun opportunity for children to trike, scoot, or bike around the parking lot while raising money for the preschool campus. A small donation from friends and family goes a long way (donation forms went home last week)! Class ride times are listed below.
- Mrs. Elionor - 9:00-9:15 AM
- Mrs. Araceli - 9:30-9:45 AM
- Mrs. Tricia - 10:00-10:15 AM
- Mrs. Jamie - 10:30-10:45 AM
- Ms. Ericka - 11:00-11:15 AM
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.
Teacher Appreciation Week: We will be celebrating our preschool teachers from March 17-21. Please click the sign up genius link and check out how you can help! Teacher Appreciation Sign Up
Elementary School
Congratulations to all the students who participated in the Fine Arts Festival last week. Great job! Thank you to all the music teachers, BOPA, and volunteers for making this day a great experience for our students.
Sixth-Grade VCMS Class Registration - It’s that time of the year for current VCES sixth-grade students who have completed re-enrollment to register for their upcoming middle school classes at VCMS. Students will receive class registration forms from their current homeroom teacher this week. These forms will need to be completed and turned back into homeroom teachers by Wednesday, March 5. The middle school registrar will then go to VCES on Thursday, March 20 to help students input their information into PowerSchool. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Gardner at lgardner@vcschools.org.
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.
Parenting with Purpose: Tuesday, March 11 - 3:00 - 4:00 PM at VCES in Room 19. Many parents of students with ADHD or those wondering if their child might have traits of ADHD are looking for community and support. Some parents are new to the ADHD diagnosis, others are in the process of getting their child assessed, while others have already had their child diagnosed and can offer tips and tricks. We will discuss the highs and lows of ADHD; what works and what doesn't. Parents will share resources and strategies together facilitated by VCES 4th grade teacher, Mrs. Haugh and VCES counselor, Mrs. Stahl. You are welcome to pay for an hour of childcare at VCES Daycare for your school-aged children if you need a place for them. RSVP to sstahl@vcschools.org.
The Multiage Class will be going to the Natural History Museum on Thursday, March 13.
Teacher + Staff Appreciation is coming up, March 17-21! This year's theme: "Saddle Up! Our Staff is the Best in the West!" CLICK HERE for ways you can donate and help bless the "Most Wanted" Elementary Staff in So Cal! Yee-haw! Much obliged, the VC Parent Association
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. Donations may also be made online. 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
Spirit Day - St. Parick's Day March 17! - Let's go Green! Dress in your favorite green attire. This is optional, if you do not wish to participate, please be in uniform.
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.
VCES Report cards were mailed out on 2/28.
Girls Flag Football and Boys Volleyball Tryouts will be held on Monday, March 10th and Wednesday, March 12th, 3:00-4:30 PM. Please be aware that cuts will be made and that there is only one team for each sport. A mandatory parent meeting is on Wednesday, March 12th at 4:00 PM. This meeting is held before the teams are made because of all the information that is needed to be shared before making a commitment to the team. This season runs from the end of March till mid May. In addition, we are still in need of an adult Girls Flag Football coach. This is a paid position! If you are interested or would like additional information regarding the program, please email Danette Teays at dteays@vcschools.org
LEMONADE! The 1st and 2nd grade musical will be March 11th at Bell One CRC located at 17603 Ardmore Ave., Bellflower. There will be two performances of the same show presented by two separate groups. The first group will begin at 6:30 PM and the second group will begin at 7:30 PM. Please join us for a funny musical using the tragedies of nursery rhyme characters.
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
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!
Spring Enrichment Classes:
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
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.
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
There will be no school for students this Friday, March 7 for a Teacher In-service Day.
Friday, March 7th marks the end of Quarter 3.
Dress Code Reminder: Parents, it is that time of year when your students have grown and their uniforms may need to be updated. Please take a moment to check your students' wardrobe to make sure their uniforms are fitting properly and have not become too small/short. For a full description of our dress code requirements, please see the Dress Code section of our Student Handbook, which can be found in the Parent Portal.
If you would like to purchase a uniform from our new vendor, Norman’s Uniforms, click here.
We appreciate you partnering with us to ensure that our students are dressed appropriately for school.
Parent Service Hour Opportunity - We are looking for parent volunteers to serve as we host the SCSBOA Band & Orchestra Festival on Tuesday, March 11. This event is being held on the VCHS campus and there are volunteer time slots available from 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM. If you are interested in signing up, please email Cheryl Chamberlin at cchamberlin@vcschools.org. Thank you in advance!
Teacher & Staff Appreciation week March 17-21: This year's theme is "Saddle Up! Our Staff is the Best in the West!" Please use the sign up genius to see how you can help us bless the Middle School Staff https://www.signupgenius.com/
VCHS Varsity Song Team 2025-2026 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://forms.gle/
VCHS JV/Varsity Cheer Teams 2025-2026 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://docs.google.
8th-Grade Parents - please mark your calendars:
- VCHS Registration Night - Monday, 3/10, 7:00 PM, VCHS Gymnasium - sign up for classes, meet coaches, staff, extra-curricular mentors, and more! This night is important for students and parents - we look forward to seeing you there!
- VCHS Check-In Days - Monday OR Tuesday, 8/4/25 or 8/5/25 - 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, 8/11/25, 8:15-11:30 AM - Orientation Day for all new high school students
- First Day of School - Tuesday, 8/12/25 will be the first full day of school for all students
Save The Date! The VCMS Science Fair will be held on Thursday, 3/20 from 5:00 - 6:30 PM in the VCMS Chapel.
PARENT SERVICE HOUR OPPORTUNITY: Science Fair Judges are needed on Wednesday, 3/19, 6:00 - 8:30 PM: We are looking for men and women who work in the field of science to help judge science fair projects. Please contact Morgan McLurg at mmclurg@vcschools.org for more information.
High School
Mark your calendar! There will be no school this Friday, 3/7.
Congratulations EPIC Robotz winners of the Orange County Regional Competition! EPIC went undefeated in the playoffs to win a place in the World Championships in Houston! Go EPIC!
Parent Service Hour Opportunity - We are looking for parent volunteers to serve as we host the SCSBOA Band & Orchestra Festival on Tuesday, March 11. This event is being held on the VCHS campus and there are volunteer time slots available from 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM. If you are interested in signing up, please email Cheryl Chamberlin at cchamberlin@vcschools.org. Thank you in advance!
We are honored to celebrate our teachers for teacher appreciation week, Monday, March 17 to Friday, March 21. If you would like to donate an item to bless our staff, please sign up here. There are also opportunities for service hours on the sign up genius during the Teacher Appreciation luncheon on Friday. Thank you for your generosity!
VCHS Varsity Song Team 2025-2026 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://forms.gle/
VCHS JV/Varsity Cheer Teams 2025-2026 season tryouts are almost here! Click on the link to apply! https://docs.google.
Planning ahead? Please mark your calendar with the following important dates:
- VCHS Check-In Days - Monday OR Tuesday, 8/4/25 or 8/5/25 - 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, 8/11/25, 8:15-11:30 AM - Orientation Day for all new high school students
- First Day of School - Tuesday, 8/12/25 will be the first full day of school for all students
Attention Junior and Senior students and families: Due to our venue and its time requirements, JSB this year will be held 5:30-10:30 PM. Please keep this in mind and plan your day on April 25th accordingly.
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!)
Counselors News - On Campus College Visits: Tuesday, April 1st - Cal Baptist University
Juniors! If you are interested in taking a digital SAT at VCHS on April 23rd, please fill out the following form! Register here
Athletics
Friends of VCS
Requested Announcements
Tim Becksvoort (former VCHS Math and Bible teacher) is leading a trip to Israel this July! If you are interested in signing up or have any questions, please email Michelle Becksvoort at mbecksvoort@
KNOWN - KNOWN BY NAME. FOR A PURPOSE - You are invited to the 2025 Artesia - Bellflower - Cerritos (ABC) Young Life Fundraising Banquet on Friday, March 14 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Imago Dei Church In Bellflower. Please come and enjoy a fun evening of a Mexican Dinner, meet our ABC Young Life kids, and hear about introducing adolescents to Jesus Christ right here in our community! This is a fundraising event and the ministry has financial needs. Please come help support our worthy ministry. For more details please sign up at this link or contact Johann Reed at (209) 639-0119 or Jeff Westra at (562) 824-2063 (cell).
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.
February 18, 2025: Issue 25
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
The Spirit Store Open Hours: The Spirit Store sells VC t-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets, hats, and socks. It is located on the high school campus in room B23. Cash, check, and digital payments are accepted. If those times do not work for you, but you need to do some shopping for school clothes, please email Alyson Hogan at spiritstore@vcschools.org.
- Tuesday, 2/25, 3:00-4:00 PM
- Monday, 3/10, 6:30-8:30 PM
Tickets for Broadway Showcase 2025 will be sold through the La Mirada Theatre Box Office and went on sale Wednesday, 2/19. Tickets can be purchased via the La Mirada Theatre website, by phone, or in person at the theatre box office. Visit www.vcschools.org/broadway for more information!
Broadway Showcase Parents: Thanks to the many who have already signed up to volunteer for rehearsals and shows. You can volunteer through the Canvas page or here: Volunteer Opportunities
Broadway Showcase Taco Man Fundraiser is on Friday, February 28th - 3:00-6:00 PM outside the Legacy Chapel. The cost is $15 for 3 tacos, rice, beans & a drink. Please come support the program! All are welcome!
Broadway Showcase: All Broadway Showcase cast members should now be enrolled in the "Broadway Showcase 2025" Canvas course. Refer to Canvas to stay up to date on the latest information about rehearsals, costumes, volunteer opportunities, show dates and more. If you or your students are not enrolled or able to view the Broadway Showcase Canvas page, please contact Mr. Davis at ddavis@vcschools.org.
VCS Employment Opportunities:
- Dean of Students for High School
- Preschool Substitute Teacher
- 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
Spring Break Sign Ups: Preschool will be open for spring break from March 24-28. If you plan for your child to attend, you must fill out the form and submit it to the preschool office by Wednesday, March 5th. We will be open from 7:30 AM-5:00 PM each day.
Read Across America - Dr. Seuss Week is filled with dress-up days and lots of fun:
- Monday 3/3: Fox in Socks (Wear FUN socks)
- Tuesday 3/4: Dr. Seuss Sleep Book (Wear your Pajamas)
- Wednesday 3/5: Wacky Wednesdays (Wacky dress up)
- Thursday 3/6: Cat In The Hat (Thing 1 and Thing 2)
Reminder: Preschool will be CLOSED on Friday, March 7 for Teachers-In-Service Training
Teacher Appreciation Week: We will be celebrating our preschool teachers from March 17-21. Please click the sign up genius link and check out how you can help! Teacher Appreciation Sign Up
Elementary School
Sixth Grade VCMS Class Registration - It’s that time of the year for current VCES sixth grade students who have completed re-enrollment to register for their upcoming middle school classes at VCMS. Students will receive class registration forms from their current homeroom teacher this week. These forms will need to be completed and turned back into homeroom teachers by Wednesday, March 5. The middle school registrar will then go to VCES on Thursday, March 20 to help students input their information into PowerSchool. If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Gardner at lgardner@vcschools.org.
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.
Parenting the Love and Logic Way - Tuesday, 2/25, 6:30 PM. This is the last session.
Teacher + Staff Appreciation is coming up, March 17-21! This year's theme: "Saddle Up! Our Staff is the Best in the West!" CLICK HERE for ways you can donate and help bless the "Most Wanted" Elementary Staff in So Cal! Yee-haw! Much obliged, the VC Parent Association
Safari Spirit Day - Friday, February 28. Come dressed as your favorite Safari Animal or Safari Guide! Spirit Day is optional. If you choose not to participate, please be in uniform. Here is the flyer.
VCES End of Trimester - Feb. 14. Report cards will be mailed the week of 2/24.
Girls Flag Football and Boys Volleyball Tryouts will be held on Monday, March 10th and Wednesday, March 12th from 3:00-4:30 PM. Please be aware that cuts will be made and that there is only one team for each sport. A mandatory parent meeting is on Wednesday, March 12th at 4:00 PM. This meeting is held before the teams are made because of all the information that is needed to be shared before making a commitment to the team. In addition, we are still in need of an adult Girls Flag Football coach. This season runs from the end of March till mid May. This is a paid position! If you are interested or would like additional information regarding the program, please email Danette Teays at dteays@vcschools.org
LEMONADE! The 1st and 2nd grade musical will be March 11th at Bell One CRC located at 17603 Ardmore Ave., Bellflower. There will be two performances of the same show presented by two separate groups. The first group will begin at 6:30 PMand the second group will begin at 7:30 PM. Please join us for a funny musical using the tragedies of nursery rhyme characters.
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
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!
Results for the Fine Arts Festival are now posted. Results can be found here. The Interscholastic Fine Arts Festival will be held Thursday, 2/27 throughout the school day at Crosspoint Church, 6950 Edison Ave., Chino. Parents must provide transportation and supervision for this event. If you have any questions about the festival, please contact your child's music teacher for more information.
Fine Arts Festival Service Hours Opportunity: Do you enjoy listening to students perform? Parents are needed as door monitors for on Thursday, 2/27 at CrossPoint Church, Chino. Please contact Miss Peppel at npeppel@vcschools.org, if you would like more information and/or are available to help.
Spring Enrichment Classes:
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
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.
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.
Chess Wizards - The after-school chess class for students in grades K-6th will be held on Tuesdays on the VCES campus through 3/11, 3:00-4:00 PM. Information and registration can be found here. Information and registration 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
8th-Grade Parents - please mark your calendars:
- VCHS Registration Night - Monday, 3/10/25, 7:00 PM, VCHS Gymnasium - sign up for classes, meet coaches, staff, extra-curricular mentors, and more! This night is important for students and parents - we look forward to seeing you there!
- VCHS Check-In Days - Monday OR Tuesday, 8/4/25 or 8/5/25 - 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, 8/11/2025, 8:15-11:30 AM - Orientation Day for all new high school students
- First Day of School - Tuesday, 8/12/2025 will be the first full day of school for all students
Dress Code Reminder: Parents, it is that time of year when your students have grown and their uniforms may need to be updated. Please take a moment to check your students' wardrobe to make sure their uniforms are fitting properly and have not become too small/short. For a full description of our dress code requirements, please see the Dress Code section of our Student Handbook, which can be found in the Parent Portal. We appreciate you partnering with us to ensure that our students are dressed appropriately for school.
The Interscholastic Fine Arts Festival is this Thursday, 2/27 at Crosspoint Church in Chino throughout the school day. If you have any questions about the festival, please contact your child's music teacher for more information.
Save The Date! The VCMS Science Fair will be held on Thursday, 3/20 from 5:00 - 6:30 PM in the VCMS Chapel.
PARENT SERVICE HOUR OPPORTUNITY: Science Fair Judges are needed on Wednesday, 3/19, 6:00 - 8:30 PM: We are looking for men and women who work in the field of science to help judge science fair projects. Please contact Morgan McLurg at mmclurg@vcschools.org for more information.
High School
Mark your calendar! There will be no school on Friday, 3/7.
We are honored to celebrate our teachers for teacher appreciation week, Monday, March 17 to Friday, March 21. If you would like to donate an item to bless our staff, please sign up here. There are also opportunities for service hours on the sign up genius during the Teacher Appreciation luncheon on Friday. Thank you for your generosity!
Planning ahead? Please mark your calendar with the following important dates:
- VCHS Check-In Days - Monday OR Tuesday, 8/4/25 or 8/5/25 - 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, 8/11/2025, 8:15-11:30 AM - Orientation Day for all new high school students
- First Day of School - Tuesday, 8/12/2025 will be the first full day of school for all students
Attention Junior and Senior students and families: Due to our venue and its time requirements, JSB this year will be held 5:30-10:30 PM. Please keep this in mind and plan your day on April 25th accordingly.
Our high school robotics team, EPIC Robotz, will be competing at the Orange County regional competition February 28th and March 1st. To watch the matches and cheer our team on, visit FIRSTinspires1 - Twitch or stop by the Orange County Fairgrounds. The competition is open to the public and free to attend! Matches will take place from 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM each day!
Scholarships for Seniors - The following scholarship applications have been posted and seniors are encouraged to apply. These are made possible through the generosity of VCHS parent organizations, VC Alumni, and VC supporters. For more details about each scholarship, please see the high school parent portal on our school website. Applications can be found on the High School Student course in Canvas, and are due and must be submitted on Canvas by Friday, 3/21.
- Athletic Boosters Scholarships
- Brett DeGroot Memorial Fine Arts Scholarship
- Cole-Terhorst-Westrup Scholarship for Christian Service
- DeBie Future Elementary Teacher Scholarship
- Kok Family Christian University Scholarship
- Koopman-Wilson Family Scholarship
- Postma Family Scholarship
- Scholastic Arts Society Scholarships - available for NHS members
- Trades and Techs Scholarship
Counselors News - On Campus College Visits: Tuesday, April 1st - Cal Baptist University -11:50 AM
Juniors! If you are interested in taking a digital SAT at VCHS on April 23rd, please fill out the following form! Register here
Athletics
Friends of VCS
Requested Announcements
KNOWN - KNOWN BY NAME. FOR A PURPOSE - You are invited to the 2025 Artesia - Bellflower - Cerritos (ABC) Young Life Fundraising Banquet on Friday, March 14 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM at Imago Dei Church In Bellflower. Please come and enjoy a fun evening of a Mexican Dinner, meet our ABC Young Life kids, and hear about introducing adolescents to Jesus Christ right here in our community! This is a fundraising event and the ministry has financial needs. Please come help support our worthy ministry. For more details please sign up at this link or contact Johann Reed at (209) 639-0119 or Jeff Westra at (562) 824-2063 (cell).
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.