3 TUE – HS Boys BB Away Regional
7 SAT – Missions Trip Training

 Dear VCS Families,

Do you know that we have an International Student Program here at our school? We have students from Korea and from China. Many of them attend from middle school all the way through high school and graduate from Valley Christian School. I believe it is in God’s plan that we are able to not only educate students from around the world, but also give them the Good News to be able to share when they return home.

We are having a special celebration this Saturday here at the school recognizing the biggest holiday on the Chinese calendar which is “The Chinese New Year”. The takes place every year in February. So make plans to stop by and enjoy some new traditions and possibly some new food. We count it a privilege to work with these students whom God has sent our way. If you are interested in becoming a “HOST FAMILY”, please contact Karen Cooley, our ISP director, at kcooley@vcoshkosh.com .

In His Service,

Brad Dunn

IMPORTANT SCHOOL CHOICE INFO

ATTENTION ALL SCHOOL CHOICE FAMILIES
If you currently hold a School Choice voucher there are a few things you need to do to secure your voucher and your spot for the 2015-16 school year. Before the April 20 deadline, you MUST re-enroll for the WPCP program with DPI (begin here). Click the “Online Parent Application” link in the blue box, then click “Click here to enter the Private School Choice Programs System”. Then you just log in to your existing account with your email and password. If you are not changing anything in your status with DPI (not adding any additional students to the application), you just need to verify your residency. If you are adding children, you must complete the residency verification and you must submit your tax return from the previous year. Both of those documents need to be turned into the school. It is very important that you take these steps, otherwise you will lose your voucher. DEADLINE IS APRIL 20, 2015

Additionally, it is necessary for you to complete the re-enrollment process here at VCS in the same way that other families are required. In addition to the online portion (here), there are two forms for you to sign and return. These forms, including the Tuition Payment Commitment (this will be adjusted to reflect School Choice) and the Statement of Faith are available for download here as well as on Sycamore. They must be signed and turned into the school office. You are not required to pay the re-enrollment fee.

ATTENTION FAMILIES WHO HAVE PREVIOUSLY ENROLLED IN SCHOOL CHOICE
If you have previously applied for a School Choice, but have not received a voucher, you must complete a short re-enrollment procedure with DPI. (begin here). Click the “Online Parent Application” link in the blue box, then click “Click here to enter the Private School Choice Programs System”. Then you just log in to your existing account with your email and password. Your previously saved information will be there, update any necessary information and complete the online registration, You are then required to provide proof of residency documentation to the school. DEADLINE IS APRIL 20, 2015

ATTENTION FAMILIES WHO HAVE NEVER APPLIED TO SCHOOL CHOICE
If your family qualifies and your student(s) is selected for a School Choice voucher, their tuition will be covered by the state of Wisconsin until they graduate from high school. If you would like more information about the School Choice program, including income qualifications, please follow this link. Here you will find a parent brochure, FAQ, and links to begin the application process. This information is also available on our website. DEADLINE IS APRIL 20, 2015

Please note that NOW would be a great time to apply for the School Choice program. There are changes to the School Choice Program before the state legislation now. The ability for families currently enrolled in private school to obtain a voucher may be limited in the future. DEADLINE IS APRIL 20, 2015

Forensics Team Going to State

The Group Acting team (Holly Simpson, Emma Lehman, Alivia Harvey, & Madeline McDonald) qualified for the State Meet! This was the 2nd year in a row that they qualified. The Infomercial team (Will Simpson and Josh Lehman) received a 2nd state qualification score on Friday. One more and they are headed to State as well. They also received a perfect score on their 2nd round. A VCS first!
Great Job Forensics team!

Warrior Wear Order

Several have asked if we could order more Warrior Wear. We will be placing another order on Wednesday, March 4. If you’d like to order a shirt or sweatshirt, please complete an order form and turn into the elementary or middle/high school offices by Wednesday morning, March 4.  Thank you.

Fan Bus Going to Regionals

The first round of regionals for our high school boys varsity basketball team is on Tuesday, March 3, 7:00 P.M. at Hilbert High School. We’d love to have as many fans there as possible. To accomplish this, we are offering bus rides for students for $1 each. If there’s room left, parents are also welcome to ride. See Mr. Abel. Let’s fill the bus and cheer on our Warriors!!

Help for the Homeless Feb 22 – Mar 15

“The supplies that were given are more than toothpaste and toilet paper; they are a sign that the community cares. Thank you.” –Thomas, Shelter Resident

We are collecting NEW hygiene and cleaning items for local homeless shelters and crisis agencies through the 23rd annual “Help for the Homeless” hygiene drive February 22 – March 15. Please place your donations in the Help for the Homeless collection boxes located at the school’s main entrance and The Commons by March 14. The most requested items include laundry detergent, garbage bags, dental and hair care items, diapers & baby care, tissue, etc. Your donations will remain in this community. Thank you! More information available at www.thefamily.net or 800-236-9364.

Find a detailed list of needed items here.

Oshkosh Area School District Summer School

Greetings from the OASD Summer School Office,
For general information and course offerings related to summer school, please see the link below. Step by step directions for online registration will be available on or after February 26, 2015 on the Summer School Webpage. Additional Summer School information can also be found on the Summer School Webpage found under the Schools Menu Tab on the OASD district webpage.

Summer Program

VCS is considering offering a summer day camp program in partnership with Community Christian Child Center. This program would run 5 days per week 7a-6p. The fee would be $185 which includes meals and most field trips. If you have any interest in such a program, please contact Brad Dunn at bdunn@vcoshkosh.com.

Chinese New Year Party

The Valley Christian International Club will be hosting a Chinese New Year party on Saturday, February 28, from 4-6 p.m. All high school students, as well as high school teachers, are invited to come and enjoy some cultural foods, traditions, and fun! The party will be held in the gymnasium. Please, come and join us for this celebration!

Enrollment is OPEN

It is time to secure your seat for the 2015-16 school year. Please take a few moments and fill out the online re-enrollment information. A $50 discount on the registration fee is available through the month of February. New families now have the same opportunity to claim available seats in each grade, so don’t delay. Please read the re-enrollment instructional letter here.

In addition to the online portion, there are two forms for you to sign and return. These forms (including the tuition and fees schedule) are available for download here as well as on Sycamore at the end of the online process. We are so thankful for what God is doing in and through our school.

Changes Happen

As happens throughout each season, especially basketball, game dates and times can change. Please check the Athletic schedule OFTEN!! Go to valleychristianoshkosh.com. Click on the “Athletics” tab toward the top of the page. Then click the “2014-2015 Athletic Calendar” button. You will see the week’s activities from that screen. To view an entire schedule, go to the “View Schedules” box on the right side of the screen, check mark the schedule you want, and click on “View”. The schedule will appear in a printable format. Please contact Mr. Abel via phone or email if you have any questions.

Game Schedules

HS Boys Basketball
Tue. March 3 – 7:00 pm – Away Regional Tournament Game @ Hilbert High School – Varsity Only

FAN BUS AVAILABLE FOR THE FIRST 50 STUDENTS WHO SIGN UP WITH MR ABEL.
 $1 PER STUDENT.

Congratulations to all of our basketball teams for a great season.  We are very proud of every one of our players.

20 FRI – 22 SUN – Grand Canyon Univ Visit
20 FRI – HS Girls BB Away
20 FRI & 21 SAT – MS Girls BB Away
21 SAT – Missions Trip Training
23 MON – HS Boys BB Away
24 TUE – MS Boys & Girls BB Home
25 WED – Pastor Appreciation
26 THU – HS Boys BB Home

Dear VCS Families,

I wanted to reach out and let you know about our upcoming annual benefit auction, The Big Event. The theme this year is a Masquerade Ball – “Unmasking the value of Christian Education”. This is our school’s largest fund raising event of the year. We do it up BIG at the Oshkosh Convention Center. This year our auction is on March 28th. Ticket prices are $75 each or two for $100. We will have a host of items to bid on during the silent auction. As well as premium and live auction items. We would love your help:

• Would you make plans to attend? 
• Do you have an item you could donate?
• Do you know someone who has something unique to donate?

A few items of interest still on our wish list include:

• Tickets to Augusta National to watch The Masters golf tournament
• A condo or hotel stay in Santa Barbara, CA to go with a fishing trip we have planned. 
• We could use some donated air miles to go with an African Safari package.

More information about table and event sponsorship, menu choices, advertising in our program and more is available by downloading the event brochure here, or by contacting Carey Holtz.

It is going to be a great night. We have entertainment for all of our guests. There will be a musical performance from the Broadway play Phantom of the Opera sung by VCS students, parents, and faculty.

Please take note of the bulletin board just inside the school’s front doors with a listing of businesses we wish to contact for donations. Thanks so much for all of your help in making this the best benefit auction our school has ever done.

Just 36 days until the event. NOW is the time for ACTION, please contact Carey Holtz for tickets or to donate an item. Carey may be reached at choltz@vcoshkosh.com or 920.231.9704 x20.

In His Service,

Brad Dunn

Help for the Homeless Feb 22 – Mar 15

“The supplies that were given are more than toothpaste and toilet paper; they are a sign that the community cares. Thank you.” –Thomas, Shelter Resident

We are collecting NEW hygiene and cleaning items for local homeless shelters and crisis agencies through the 23rd annual “Help for the Homeless” hygiene drive February 22 – March 15. Please place your donations in the Help for the Homeless collection boxes located at the school’s main entrance and The Commons by March 14. The most requested items include laundry detergent, garbage bags, dental and hair care items, diapers & baby care, tissue, etc. Your donations will remain in this community. Thank you! More information available at www.thefamily.net or 800-236-9364.

Find a detailed list of needed items here.

Oshkosh Area School District Summer School

Greetings from the OASD Summer School Office,
For general information and course offerings related to summer school, please see the link below. Step by step directions for online registration will be available on or after February 26, 2015 on the Summer School Webpage. Additional Summer School information can also be found on the Summer School Webpage found under the Schools Menu Tab on the OASD district webpage.

AAUW Tech Savvy—Registration Open!

This is a full day, hands-on STEM conference for girls in grades 6-9. Tech Savvy prepares girls to be scientists, engineers, or technology experts. Special sessions for parents and guardians help them learn how to support students on their path to college and career. It will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2015 at UW-Oshkosh, Halsey Science Center. Please see this flyer for more details and registration link.

Calendar Change

The Elementary Spring Concert date has been changed since the one page calendar came out at the beginning of the school year. The new date is Thursday, May 14, 2015, 6:30 at New Life Community Church. Please mark this on your calendar!

Summer Program

VCS is considering offering a summer day camp program in partnership with Community Christian Child Center. This program would run 5 days per week 7a-6p. The fee would be $185 which includes meals and most field trips. If you have any interest in such a program, please contact Brad Dunn at bdunn@vcoshkosh.com.

Chinese New Year Party

The Valley Christian International Club will be hosting a Chinese New Year party on Saturday, February 28, from 4-6 p.m. All high school students, as well as high school teachers, are invited to come and enjoy some cultural foods, traditions, and fun! The party will be held in the gymnasium. Please, come and join us for this celebration!

Pastor Appreciation Day

Wednesday, February 25 from 9:00 – 9:45 am. We would like to encourage all of our students to invite their pastors to attend this event held in honor of our local pastors. Please take a minute to invite them to join us. Elementary students will be coming home with invitations in their Friday Folders. We would like them to RSVP by Monday, February 23rd. They may contact Mrs. Busch in the front office @ 231-9704 x. 4 or lbusch@vcoshkosh.com to RSVP. We appreciate our pastors so much and we look forward to blessing them.

Enrollment is OPEN

It is time to secure your seat for the 2015-16 school year. Please take a few moments and fill out the online re-enrollment information. A $50 discount on the registration fee is available through the month of February. New families now have the same opportunity to claim available seats in each grade, so don’t delay. Please read the re-enrollment instructional letter here.

In addition to the online portion, there are two forms for you to sign and return. These forms (including the tuition and fees schedule) are available for download here as well as on Sycamore at the end of the online process. We are so thankful for what God is doing in and through our school.

Changes Happen

As happens throughout each season, especially basketball, game dates and times can change. Please check the Athletic schedule OFTEN!! Go to valleychristianoshkosh.com. Click on the “Athletics” tab toward the top of the page. Then click the “2014-2015 Athletic Calendar” button. You will see the week’s activities from that screen. To view an entire schedule, go to the “View Schedules” box on the right side of the screen, check mark the schedule you want, and click on “View”. The schedule will appear in a printable format. Please contact Mr. Abel via phone or email if you have any questions.

Game Schedules

HS Boys Basketball

Mon. Feb. 23 – Away @ Oakfield: JV-6:00 p.m.; Varsity-7:30 p.m.
Thurs. Feb. 26 – Home vs Montello: JV-6:00 p.m.; Varsity-7:30 p.m.

HS Girls Basketball

Fri. Feb. 20 – Away @ Oneida Nation: 6:00 p.m.

MS Boys Basketball

Tues. Feb. 24 – Home vs New Hope: B Team-5:30 p.m.; A Team-6:30 p.m.

MS Girls Basketball

Fri. Feb. 20 & Sat. Feb. 21 – Away Tournament @ Central Wisconsin Christian: TBD
Tues. Feb. 24 – Home vs New Hope: 4:30 p.m.

06 FRI – MS Boys BB Away (B only)
07 SAT – Community Carnival
07 SAT – MS Boys BB Away (B only)
09 MON – MS Boys & Girls BB Home
10 TUE – HS Boys BB Home
10 TUE – HS Girls BB Away
12 THU – HS Girls BB Home
12 THU – MS Boys BB Away
13 FRI – Early Release Day
13 FRI – HS Boys BB Away
13 FRI – MS Boys & Girls BB Away

Dear VCS Families,

     It is a huge blessing to partner with you in the education of your children.  I just wanted to let you know that every Wednesday evening there is a group that meets in the teachers’ lounge and prays specifically for God to bless the students in our school.  They pray that God will show Himself to these young people and that their hearts will be turned towards Him.

     I count it a blessing to serve our Lord and Savior here at Valley Christian School.  As I write to you this morning, I am attending our ACSI Administrators’ conference.  I am reminded again that our teachers not only teach our students head knowledge, but more importantly they teach them from the HEART.

     Have a wonderful weekend and if you have elementary students, come join the fun with the JR CARNIVAL.

In His Service,

Brad Dunn

Early Release on February 13

Reminder to all After School Care Parents: The next Early Release Day for students is February 13. There IS After School Care that day. The charge is
Read more →

30 FRI – HS Boys Away Game
31 SAT – MS Boys & Girls BB Home
3 TUE – HS Girls BB Home
5 THU – HS Boys BB Away
6 FRI & 7 SAT – MS Boys BB Away
7 SAT – Community Carnival

Dear VCS Families,

I wanted to draw your attention to four important pieces of information that you need to be aware of:

1. Re-enrollment for existing families ends February 1.  You need to have your forms submitted to hold your spot in next year’s class.  We are beginning to find ourselves with classes that will be full.  If this happens, we will start a waiting list.  Beginning February 2 a new family can guarantee their spot in a class for next school year.
2. Security entrance instructions – everything is ready to go live, we will use next week to work out any bugs so you may find the doors are locked and you will need to push the button to get in.  Starting Monday, February 9 they will be in use full time during school hours. Please read about all the details in this Family email below.
3. Family emails – please do your best to read and scan the family email each week.  This is our main form of communication to you so you know what is going on at school each and every week.  You can always read previous emails via our website under the blog section.
4. The Big Event – our school auction will be here before we know it.   Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 28.  We would love for you to attend.  We also need your help in securing table sponsors, and direct donations for items to place on our silent auction tables.  If you know of anyone who would be willing to donate a week in a warm place like Florida, Arizona, or California that would be appreciated.

We are truly blessed with an amazing student body and I believe more and more families want to join us as was evidenced by our recent Open House.  We had 21 new families in attendance!!  Keep spreading the word.

In His Service,

Brad Dunn

Security Doors

We are excited to begin using our new security doors and would like to share the new procedures with you. During arrival and dismissal times, the security doors will remain unlocked and parents and students may come and go freely. From 8:20 a.m. – 3 p.m. the doors will lock and anyone who needs to enter our building needs to follow simple procedures.
1. Push the button on the white box that is now mounted in our entryway near the door. This will alert the front office that you are there. You will then either be asked to identify yourself (via the speaker) or the door will be immediately unlocked for you if you are recognized.
2. Wait for the door to unlock (you will hear a click), it will remain unlocked for 8 seconds, then enter.
3. Sign in at the front office. ALL visitors MUST sign in at the front office and receive a visitor badge.
We will be testing this system next week, so you may encounter locked doors at some point. We will launch this system in full force beginning Monday, February 9. Thank you supporting our security campaign. We are excited to increase the security for our students, staff and visitors.

Carnival

The Classes of 2016 & 2017 invite you to attend the Community Carnival to be held Saturday, February 7, 1-3pm at Valley Christian School. There will be carnival games for ages 12 and under with some games dedicated specifically to ages 5 and under! A flyer was sent home in Elementary Friday Folders. Be sure to keep an eye on your Friday Folder next week for a special surprise!

Claim Your 2014 Tuition Tax Credit

2014 Tuition reports will be emailed to each family by the VCS Business Manager by February 6. If you prefer a paper copy instead, please contact Mrs. Abel in the Business Office.

Priority Re-enrollment is OPEN

It is time to secure your seat for the 2015-16 school year. Please take a few moments and fill out the online re-enrollment information. A $50 discount on the registration fee is available through the month of February. Currently we have in-house re-enrollment going on and you can guarantee your seat until February 1. At that time, new families will have the same opportunity to claim available seats in each grade. Please read the re-enrollment instructional letter here.
In addition to the online portion, there are two forms for you to sign and return. These forms (including the tuition and fees schedule) are available for download here as well as on Sycamore at the end of the online process. We are so thankful for what God is doing in and through our school.

6th-9th Grade Girls Technology Workshop

Are you tech savvy? You will be after a day of hands-on fun with science, mathematics, engineering, and technology! Attend a workshop at UWO on Saturday, April 18, 8:30am-4:00pm. Cost is $5 per person which includes a light breakfast and lunch, workshops, and a t-shirt for girls. Tech Savvy prepares young women to be a scientists, engineers, or technology experts. Special sessions for parents and guardians help you learn how to support your daughter on a path to college and career. Workshops include: Biotechnology, Chemistry, Coding, Environmental Science, Medicine, Nanotechnology and more! For more info and online registration visit: www.aauw.org/what-we-do/stem-education/tech-savvy/ (online registration opens February 1.)

Measles Information from WI Public Health Dept.

• The United States experienced a record number of measles cases during 2014, with 644 cases from 27 states
• From January 1 to January 23, 2015, 68 people from 11 states were reported to have measles. Most of these cases are part of a large, ongoing outbreak linked to an amusement park in California.
• There has been a case reported in Northern Illinois that does not appear to be associated with the California outbreak.
• No recent cases have been reported in Wisconsin.
• Measles spreads easily and rapidly. Getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent measles.
• For additional information on measles and the current outbreak please go to: http://www.cdc.gov/measles/
• Please click for informational letter and measles and fact sheet.

This notice from the WI Division of Public Health is to make parents aware of the measles outbreak, to encourage review of vaccinations and to make sure children are up to date with their MMR vaccines.

Auction Bulletin Board

We need your help securing auction items for this year.
We have created the auction retailer bulletin board again this year in the front hallway. We are asking families to help us secure items for the auction by approaching local businesses that have donated to our event in the past as well as adding some new retailers this year. Here is how it works:
Check out the special bulletin board in the front hallway near the double doors by the kindergarten room. We have displayed a wide variety of retailers for people to choose from. If you know someone who owns one of these businesses, or you frequent their establishment, you would be the perfect person to approach that business(es).
Take the number of index cards that you can approach within the next 10 days. Under each index card, there is a label for that business. Sign your name on that label so we know who took the index card. If you have time to approach more, please take them. Just make sure that you are able to follow through. Take a retailer donor letter for each index card taken. Many retailers require something in writing when you are making a request.
Make your contact within 10 days and follow up with those businesses as needed. Please have all items to the school by March 9th. They can be turned into the front office or the Business office.
Please join us in making this our most successful auction yet. Thank you in advance for your help. All questions can be directed to Carey Holtz @ 231-9704 x. 20 or choltz@vcoshkosh.com.

 Changes Happen

As happens throughout each season, especially basketball, game dates and times can change. Please check the Athletic schedule OFTEN!! Go to www.valleychristianoshkosh.com. Click on the “Athletics” tab toward the top of the page. Then click the “2014-2015 Athletic Calendar” button. You will see the week’s activities from that screen. To view an entire schedule, go to the “View Schedules” box on the right side of the screen, check mark the schedule you want, and click on “View”. The schedule will appear in a printable format. Please contact Mr. Abel via phone or email if you have any questions.

HS Boys Basketball

Fri. Jan. 30 – Away Game @ Green Lake/Princeton
JV – 6:00 p.m.; Varsity – 7:30 p.m.
Thurs. Feb. 5 – Away Game @ Randolph High School
JV – 6:00 p.m.; Varsity – 7:30 p.m.

HS Girls Basketball

Tues. Feb. 3 – Home Game vs Horicon – 6:00 p.m.

MS Boys Basketball

Sat. Jan. 31 – Home Tournament – 9:00 a.m. – A Team
Fri. Feb. 6 – Sat. Feb. 7 – Away Tournament @ Trinity Evangelical Lutheran School Oshkosh – B Team – TBD

Valley Christian School is excited to sponsor our Middle School A-team tournament tomorrow, 1/31. The game schedule is as follows:

9:00 am All Saints vs Celebration Lutheran
10:00 am Trinity Lutheran vs. Valley Christian
11:00 am All Saints vs. Trinity Lutheran
12:00 pm GIRLS: Trinity Lutheran vs. Valley Christian
1:00 pm Celebration Lutheran vs. Valley Christian
2:00 pm Celebration Lutheran vs. Trinity Lutheran
3:00 pm All Saints vs. Valley Christian

Since this is a tournament, all students will be required to pay. Admission charges are: FAMILY…$12, ADULT…$5, SENIOR…$3, STUDENT…$3.
It should be an exciting day of basketball! We hope to see you all there!!

MS Girls Basketball

Sat. Jan. 31 – Home Tournament Game vs Trinity Evangelical Lutheran School – 12:00 p.m.

23 FRI – 24 SAT – MS Drama Production
24 SAT – MS Boys & Girls BB Away
26 MON – HS Girls BB Home
27 TUES – HS Boys BB Home
27 TUES – MS Boys & Girls BB Away
29 THURS – MS Boys & Girls BB Home
30 FRI – HS Boys BB Away
30 FRI – 31 SAT – MS Boys & Girls BB Home

Dear VCS Families,

We had a fantastic Open House last night!  There were at least 21 families here to check out VCS!  When asked how they became aware of our Open House, we heard the following: direct invite from a friend, 91.9 The Family Christian radio, a post card sent from the school, a church visit presentation about VCS, recommendation/advertisement at their preschool.  We are so thankful for the new families that will join us next year.

With that being said, we encourage you to finish up your re-enrollment information and get signed up to reserve your seat in next year’s class.  This helps us make plans with faculty and with curriculum so that we are prepared.

Growth in our student body, enables us to offer more for everyone.  I love our school and we have the finest teachers anywhere who love the children God gives them each year.  We truly partner with you in the education of your child.

In His Service,

Brad Dunn

From Mr. Masseth

VCS Families,

As some of you may have already heard, I have accepted the position of head administrator at Community Christian School in Willmar, Minnesota for the 2015-2016 school year.  This means that my wife and I will be moving back to Minnesota on July 1^st.  I have enjoyed serving you and your children for the past six years.  I absolutely love VCS and my decision to leave has nothing to do with anything other than a door being opened up for us to return to a school that I served at for eight years prior to joining VCS.  It is clear to us that God is moving us back to this school where I will also be closer to my family.  My wife and I will always cherish the time spent here in Oshkosh.  We will miss all of you very much and will look back on these years with fondness.  Thank you for the opportunity to serve you all.

God Bless.

Steve and BoLynda Masseth

Community Carnival

The Classes of 2016 & 2017 invite you to attend the Community Carnival to be held Saturday, February 7, 1-3pm at Valley Christian School.  There will be carnival games for ages 12 and under with some games dedicated specifically to ages 5 and under!  A flyer was sent home in Elementary Friday Folders.  Be sure to keep an eye on your Friday Folder the next couple weeks for a special surprise!

Auction Bulletin Board

We need your help securing auction items for this year.  We have created the auction retailer bulletin board again this year in the front hallway.  We are asking families to help us secure items for the auction by approaching local businesses that have donated to our event in the past as well as adding some new retailers this year.  Here is how it works:

Check out the special bulletin board in the front hallway near the double doors by the kindergarten room.  We have displayed a wide variety of retailers for people to choose from.  If you know someone who owns one of these businesses, or you frequent their establishment, you would be the perfect person to approach that business(es).

Take the number of index cards that you can approach within the next 10 days.  Under each index card, there is a label for that business.  Sign your name on that label so we know who took the index card.  If you have time to approach more, please take them.  Just make sure that you are able to follow through.  Take a retailer donor letter for each index card taken.  Many retailers require something in writing when you are making a request.

Make your contact within 10 days and follow up with those businesses as needed.  Please have all items to the school by March 9^th.  They can be turned into the front office or the Business office. 

Please join us in making this our most successful auction yet.  Thank you in advance for your help.  All questions can be directed to Carey Holtz @ 231-9704 x. 20 or choltz@vcoshkosh.com.

Family Fun & Food Night

We want to thank everyone for coming out to the Family Fun & Food Night on Tuesday.  It was a great night and everyone had a blast.  The games in the gym were very entertaining and the varsity boys’ basketball team walked away with their first win of the season.  The Soup/Chili fest was a huge success.  It was our most profitable one to date.  Stacey Schiek was the winner of the cook-off and she rustled up an outstanding Taco Soup.  Congratulations!  Thank you to everyone that made soups, chili, and desserts for that night.  It was greatly appreciated.  Also, thank you to everyone that helped out during the event.  We couldn’t have done it without you.

Priority Re-enrollment is OPEN

It is time to secure your seat for the 2015-16 school year.  Please take a few moments and fill out the online re-enrollment information.  A $50 discount on the registration fee is available through the month of February.  Currently we have in-house re-enrollment going on and you can guarantee your seat until February 1.  At that time, new families will have the same opportunity to claim available seats in each grade.  Please read the re-enrollment instructional letter here.

In addition to the online portion, there are two forms for you to sign and return. These forms (including the tuition and fees schedule) are available for download here as well as on Sycamore at the end of the online process. We are so thankful for what God is doing in and through our school.

Changes Happen

As happens throughout each season, especially basketball, game dates and times can change.  Please check the Athletic schedule OFTEN!!  Go to valleychristianoshkosh.com.  Click on the “Athletics” tab toward the top of the page.  Then click the “2014-2015 Athletic Calendar” button.  You will see the week’s activities from that screen.  To view an entire schedule, go to the “View Schedules” box on the right side of the screen, check mark the schedule you want, and click on “View”.  The schedule will appear in a printable format.  Please contact Mr. Abel via phone or email if you have any questions.

 HS Boys Basketball

Tue. Jan. 27 – Home Game vs Markesan  ; JV – 6:00 p.m.; Varsity – 7:30 p.m.

Fri. Jan. 30 – Away Game @ Green Lake/Princeton; JV – 6:00 p.m.; Varsity – 7:30 p.m.

HS Girls Basketball

Mon. Jan. 26 – Home Game vs Madison Country Day School – 6:00 p.m.

Thu. Jan. 29 – Home Game vs Abundant Life Christian – 7:00 p.m.

 MS Boys Basketball

Sat. Jan. 24 – Conference Tournament – @ Berlin High School – 12:30 p.m.

Tue. Jan. 27 –Away Game vs. All Saints Catholic (@ Clay Lamberton School – Berlin); B Team – 5:30 p.m.; A Team – 6:30 p.m.

Thu. Jan. 29 – Home Game vs Trinity Lutheran School Menasha; A & B Mix – 5:30 p.m.

Fri. Jan. 30 & Sat. Jan. 31 – Home Tournament – TBD

 MS Girls Basketball

Sat. Jan. 24 – Conference Tournament – @ Berlin High School – 9:00 a.m.

Tue. Jan. 27 –Away Game vs. All Saints Catholic –(@ Clay Lamberton School, Berlin) – 4:30 p.m.

Thu. Jan. 29 – Home Game vs Trinity Lutheran School Menasha – 4:30 p.m.

Fri. Jan. 30 & Sat. Jan. 31 – Home Tournament – TBD

16 FRI – HS Boys BB Away
17 SAT – Missions Trip Training
19 MON – NO SCHOOL
19 MON – MS Boys & Girls BB Away
19 MON – HS Girls BB Home
20 TUE – Family Fun & Food Night
20 TUE – HS Boys BB Home
20 TUE – HS Girls BB Away
21 WED – Blood Drive
22 THU – Open House
22 THU – MS Boys & Girls BB Home
22 THU – HS Boys BB Away
23 FRI – 24 SAT – MS Drama
24 SAT – MS Boys & Girls BB

Student Council Bake-Off Friday, Jan. 23
Students, are you ready to show off your amazing baking talent? Adults and families, are you ready to eat amazing baked goods? Student Council is hosting a Bake-Off on Friday, January 23, from 3:15 until 4:45p.m. This event will be held in the Commons. Come and enjoy baked homemade desserts from the students. Then, vote on your favorite dessert, or vote just to support a class. All proceeds benefit the Steven Moore family. Everyone is welcome to participate.

Lunch Ordering for February Open
Lunch ordering is open for February until Wednesday, January 21st and will close at 1:00 p.m. Please have all past lunch orders paid for by January 21st to avoid having your February order cancelled. The lunch program is still looking for a volunteer for the Thursday lunch shift. The shift runs from 10:30 to 12:30 and is a great way to fulfill your family volunteer hours and get to know the kids. If you feel led to volunteer, please contact Amy Ruegsegger at lunch.program@vcoshkosh.com

Priority Re-enrollment is OPEN
It is time to secure your seat for the 2015-16 school year. Please take a few moments and fill out the online re-enrollment information. A $50 discount on the registration fee is available through the month of February. Currently we have in-house re-enrollment going on and you can guarantee your seat until February 1. At that time, new families will have the same opportunity to claim available seats in each grade. Please read the re-enrollment instructional letter here.
In addition to the online portion, there are two forms for you to sign and return. These forms (including the tuition and fees schedule) are available for download here as well as on Sycamore at the end of the online process. We are so thankful for what God is doing in and through our school.

Soup/Chili Fest and Family Fun Night
On Tuesday, Jan. 20, we will have a night packed with fun activities for the family and we will have supper ready and waiting for all. Don’t miss this night! Last year, this activity was a highlight, talked about for months.

Here is a lineup of activities (subject to change).
5:00-5:15-Dodge Ball game with students and parents from grades 1& 2
5:15-5:30- Dodge Ball game with students and parents from grades 3 & 4
5:45-6:30-MS Boys A Team vs. Faculty and Staff Team
6:40-Varsity Boys home basketball game
Halftime- 5th Grade vs 6th Grade basketball

The Soup/Chili Fest will be going on from 5-7 p.m. or until they run out of food!
Here’s how it works: Buy pre-sale food tickets (available in the Business Office): 6 tickets for $5, or buy food tickets at the door for $1 each
Food prices:
8oz soup/chili- 3 tickets
12oz soup/chili- 4 tickets
1 qt soup/chili- 7 tickets
Soda/water- 1 ticket
2 rolls- 1 ticket

HS Boys Basketball
Fri. Jan 16 – Away @ Montello High School –JV – 6 p.m.; Varsity – 7:30 p.m.
Tue. Jan 20 – Home vs Stockbridge High School Varsity – 6:40 p.m.
Thu. Jan 22 – Away @ Lourdes Academy –JV – 6 p.m.; Varsity – 7:30 p.m.

HS Girls Basketball
Mon. Jan 19 – Home vs FHCAA – 6 p.m.
Tue. Jan 20 – Away @ Washington County Homeschool Association – 7 p.m.
Game located at Crown of Life Evangelical Lutheran School, Hubertus, WI

MS Boys Basketball
Mon. Jan 19 – Away @ St. John’s Lutheran – Berlin: B Team – 5:30 p.m.; A Team – 6:30 p.m.
Thu. Jan 22 – Home vs Celebration Lutheran
B Team – 4:30 p.m.; A Team – 5:30 p.m.: Sat. Jan 24 – Conference Tournament – Away @ TBD

MS Girls Basketball
Mon. Jan 19 – Away @ St. John’s Lutheran – Berlin – 4:30 p.m.
Thu. Jan 22 – Home vs Celebration Lutheran – 6:30 p.m.
Sat. Jan 24 – Conference Tournament – Away @ TBD

12 MON – HS Boys BB Away Game
12 MON – HS Girls BB Away Game
13 TUE – HS Boys BB Home Game
13 TUE – MS Boys & Girls BB Away Game
15 THU – HS Girls BB Away Game
15 THU – MS Boys & Girls BB Home Game
16 FRI – Early Release Day
16 FRI – Movie Fundraiser for Missions Trip
16 FRI – HS Boys BB Away Game
17 SAT – Missions Trip Training

Dear VCS Families,

I wanted to remind you about our re-enrollment dates. Re-enrollment begins on Monday, January 12 at NOON and you have until March 1^st to take advantage of our lowest rates.  To secure your spot for the 2015-16 school year, please take a few minutes and begin this process by filling out your re-enrollment forms online. We are very thankful for each and every family that makes up Valley Christian School.

We are having our OPEN HOUSE on January 22^nd at 6:30 pm.  Please make plans to invite a family member or a friend to come and check out your school.  You can share our latest radio commercial advertising this event with someone who you think we benefit from a Christian education.  We would love to have new families just like yours here at VCS with us for next year.  You are our best advertising and we are asking for your help.  Coming to an OPEN HOUSE is a great way for families to get a feel for who we are and what we are doing around here.  We would be happy to come and present our school at your church on a Sunday or Wednesday.  Please let Lorie Busch or Carey Holtz know if you want to schedule a visit at your church.

In His Service,

Brad Dunn

Re-enrollment begins Monday, January 12 at NOON
It is time once again to secure your seat for the 2015-16 school year. Please take a few moments and fill out the re-enrollment information. You will want to keep this email handy so you have the links necessary to complete your re-enrollment. A $50 discount on the registration fee is available through the month of February. Currently we have in-house re-enrollment going on and you can guarantee your seat until February 1. At that time, new families will have the same opportunity to claim available seats in each grade.
Please read the re-enrollment instructional letter here.

In addition to the online portion, there are two forms for you to sign and return. These forms (including the tuition and fees schedule) are available for download here as well as on Sycamore. We are so thankful for what God is doing in and through our school.

Frozen Frenzy-Early Release Party and Panama Mission Trip Fundraiser

January 16, Noon to 3:30 PM
Cost: $10 suggested donation

Don’t go home and have nothing to do after school on January 16. Come hang with us! Elementary and middle school students are invited to party with the Panama Mission team on Friday, January 16 right after school. We’ll show the movie Frozen (prize for best Frozen costume for any who want to dress up), play some cool games and have a blast hanging out together. Snacks will be provided. Bring your own sack lunch.
Register and pay with Mrs. Busch.
(The suggested donation for 2 people from the same family $15, 3 or more people from the same family is $20). ALL proceeds from this fundraiser directly support the VCS student missionaries traveling to Panama in April, so LET’S SUPPORT THEM!

Soup/Chili Fest and Family Fun Night
On Tuesday, Jan. 20, we will have a night packed with fun activities for the family and we will have supper ready and waiting for all. Don’t miss this night! Last year, this activity was a highlight, talked about for months.

Here is a lineup of activities (subject to change).
5:00-5:15-Dodge Ball game with students and parents from grades 1& 2
5:15-5:30- Dodge Ball game with students and parents from grades 3 & 4
5:45-6:30-MS Boys A Team vs. Faculty and Staff Team
6:40-Varsity Boys home basketball game
Halftime- Mini game- 5th Grade vs 6th Grade basketball

The Soup/Chili Fest will be going on from 5-7 p.m. or until they run out of food!
Here’s how it works: Buy pre-sale food tickets (available in the Business Office): 6 tickets for $5, or buy food tickets at the door for $1 each
Food prices:
8oz soup/chili- 3 tickets
12oz soup/chili- 4 tickets
1 qt soup/chili- 7 tickets
Soda/water- 1 ticket
2 rolls- 1 ticket

We are in need of Soup/Chili chefs. If you would like to make a nesco of something scrumptious, please contact Mrs. Holtz ASAP. We need a variety of soups and chili as well as some bread items to go along with the soups.

Lost and Found
The lost and found bin is overflowing already! We will be setting out tables for the students to check for missing items that belong to them. Parents are welcome to check out the tables as well. We will leave them up for a week after which all items will be donated Friday, Jan. 16.

Next Early Release Day
Reminder to all After School Care Parents: The next Early Release Day for students is January 16. There IS After School Care that day, although we encourage families to take advantage of the FROZEN FRENZY FUNDRAISER (details in the highlight box above).

The charge for regular after school care that day is $10.00 per child until the normal dismissal time of 3:15, then regular after school rates apply until 5:30 PM. Your child must have a cold lunch with them. Please RSVP to either Mrs. Busch or Mrs. Patterson to reserve your child’s spot.

Lock Down Drill Scheduled for January
It is our desire to ensure the safest environment possible for the students and staff at VCS. Part of maintaining a safe environment includes running drills of various kinds throughout the year. We are all accustomed to fire drills and even severe weather drills, less familiar to many parents are “lock down” drills. These drills were developed in conjunction with the Oshkosh PD, and are practiced every year. We do not conduct these drills in a manner that would cause undue fear or anxiety for any of our students but we do conduct them with the same level of seriousness as our other drills. If you have questions or concerns regarding the procedures, or the drill itself, please feel free to contact a classroom teacher or Mr. Masseth.

Semester Grades
Semester report cards will be available on Sycamore after 3:30 p.m. today, January 9. Student report cards will be posted under the document tab of their student profile. Kindergarten students will come home with a copy of their report card in their Friday Folder.

CONGRATULATIONS, MRS. WAHL!
Mrs. Wahl was the winner of the Junior Class Turkey Raffle! Her name was drawn and she was awarded the 12-pound prize! The junior class would like to thank everyone who gobbled up the chance to participate!!

Weather Related School Closing Notifications
Valley Christian School follows the lead of the Oshkosh Public School District in regards to weather related school closings. Families will receive an email or a School Reach text message from Valley Christian informing you if school is cancelled. Notices will also be posted on the following radio stations and television networks as soon as the decision is made:
WBAY Channel 2 ABC
WFRV Channel 5 CBS
WLUK Channel 11 FOX
WGBA Channel 26 NBC
WEMI – 91.9 FM
WORQ – Q90 FM

HS Boys Basketball

Mon. Jan. 12 – Away @ Cambria-Friesland High School:
JV – 6:00 p.m.; Varsity – 7:30 p.m.

Tue. Jan. 13 – Home vs Oakfield High School:
JV – 6:00 p.m.; Varsity – 7:30 p.m.

Fri. Jan. 16 – Away @ Montello High School:
JV – 6:00 p.m.; Varsity – 7:30 p.m.

HS Girls Basketball
Mon. Jan. 12 – Away @ Fond du Lac Christian School – 5:30 p.m.
Thu. Jan. 15 – Away @ Madison Country Day School – 6:00 p.m.

MS Boys Basketball
Tue. Jan. 13 – Away @ Celebration Lutheran:
B Team – 5:30 p.m.; Team – 6:30 p.m.

Thu. Jan. 15 – Home vs Trinity Lutheran Evangelical School:
B Team – 5:30 p.m.; A Team – 6:30 p.m.

MS Girls Basketball
Tue. Jan. 13 – Away @ Celebration Lutheran – 4:30 p.m.
Thu. Jan. 15 – Home vs Trinity Lutheran Evangelical School – 4:30 p.m.

Changes Happen

As happens throughout each season, especially basketball, game dates and times can change.  Please check the Athletic schedule OFTEN!!  Go to the Athletics page of this website, click the “2014-2015 Athletic Calendar” button.  You will see the week’s activities from that screen.  To view an entire schedule, go to the “View Schedules” box on the right side of the screen, check mark the schedule you want, and click on “View”.  The schedule will appear in a printable format.  Please contact Mr. Abel via phone or email if you have any questions.

22 MON – Christmas Break
26 FRI – Volleyball ReSet Alumni Game
29 MON – HS Boys BB Away Tournament
30 TUE – HS Boys BB Away Tournament
05 MON – School Resumes
05 MON – HS Boys & Girls BB Home Games
06 TUE – MS Boys & Girls BB Home Games

Dear VCS Families,

On behalf of our entire staff we want to say thank you for your generosity during both Christmas concerts.  Your offerings enabled us to fund a bonus for the teachers. I would like to personally pray a blessing upon each and every VCS family this holiday season.  We trust that your vacation will be filled with wonderful memories being made with family and friends.  I love Christmas music (in our home, it can begin being played after Thanksgiving) and one song in particular this year is my favorite, “Mary Did You Know”.  Here is a version from an a capella group you might enjoy- So turn it up and rejoice in the birth of our Lord and Savior!!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!

In His Service,

Brad Dunn

Highlights

CHRISTMAS PROGRAMS
We hope you were able to make it to one of this week’s Christmas Programs. Our students did such a wonderful job celebrating the birth of Christ. Pictures from the Elementary Christmas Program are now available for viewing and purchase on Zenfolio.com. Grab a cup of coffee and take the time to look. There are a ton of adorable pictures, and there IS a picture(s) of your preschool/elementary student in there.

 

BOOK FAIR BOUNTY
Look at this bounty of books! VCS was able to purchase more than 90 books, many of them in library bound hardcover. We earned half back in scholastic dollars so our school earned $3,100 to spend on new books for the library this year, Thank you to all who supported our book fair this year. WOW!

Year End Giving

We just wanted to let you know that our online PayPal account will be open during the Christmas break.  If you wish to make a year-end gift to Valley Christian School, you can go to the front page of our website  and click on the SUPPORT US  link toward the bottom of the page.  Also, any checks sent to the school will be counted in your 2014 giving record if it is post marked by December 31.

Lunchroom News

The Lunch Program is in need of volunteers for next semester. One for the Tuesday and Thursday shift. The hours are from 10:30 to 12:30. This is a great way to fulfill your volunteer hours and get to know the staff and kids. If you feel led to do this, please contact Amy Ruegsegger at lunch.program@vcoshkosh.com

Semester Grades

Semester report cards will be available after 3:30 p.m. on Friday, January 9.  Student report cards will be posted under the document tab of their student profile.

Scrip Orders for the Holiday Season

Monday, Jan. 5 – Scrip Order Please inform your friends and family members who order scrip as well.  We will NOT place an order over Christmas break so please plan accordingly for those two weeks as well.  If you are signed up for PrestoPay, you can still buy ScripNow  and reload your cards during the Christmas break.    

HS Boys Basketball

Fri. Dec. 19 – Away Game @ Pardeeville High School – JV – 6:00 p.m.;  Varsity – 7:30 p.m. Mon. Dec. 29 & Tues. Dec. 30 – Away Tournament @ Lena High School – TBD Mon. Jan. 5 – Home Game vs Central Wisconsin Christian – JV – 6:00 p.m;  Varsity – 7:30 p.m.

HS Girls Basketball

Mon. Jan. 5 – Home Game vs Central Wisconsin Christian – 4:30 p.m.

MS Boys Basketball

Tues. Jan. 6 – Home Game vs Fox Valley Christian Academy –    B Team – 5:30 p.m.;   A Team – 6:30 p.m.

MS Girls Basketball

Tues. Jan. 6 – Home Game vs Fox Valley Christian Academy – 4:30 p.m.

Changes Happen

As happens throughout each season, especially basketball, game dates and times can change.  Please check the Athletic schedule OFTEN!!  Go to the Athletics page of this website, click the “2014-2015 Athletic Calendar” button.  You will see the week’s activities from that screen.  To view an entire schedule, go to the “View Schedules” box on the right side of the screen, check mark the schedule you want, and click on “View”.  The schedule will appear in a printable format.  Please contact Mr. Abel via phone or email if you have any questions.

12 FRI – MS Boys & Girls BB Away Games
12 FRI – HS Girls BB Away Game
15 MON – HS Boys BB Home Game
15 MON – MS Boys BB Away Game
16 TUES – Elementary Christmas Concert
17 WED – MS/HS Semester Finals
18 THURS – MS/HS Semester Finals
19 FRI – MS/HS Semester Finals – End of 1st Semester
19 FRI – Early Release Day
19 FRI – HS Boys BB Away Game

Dear VCS Families,

Merry Christmas!!  We were blessed by our middle school and high school students last night at the Christmas concert.  The true meaning of Christmas was proclaimed.  What a joy to watch and listen to our students.  I invite you to our elementary concert on Tuesday at New Life Community Church.

I wanted to report that our safety door campaign was a huge success.  We met and even exceeded our goal.  The doors have been ordered and we will be implementing the new entry system in February. We will need a couple of weeks to make sure we have everything in place and I’m being told installation is on average four weeks.  With the holidays, we may see a little longer lead time.  Thank you again for helping us to reach our goal and make our school a safer environment.

In His Service,

Brad Dunn

Jr. Class Turkey Raffle

Didn’t get enough Thanksgiving turkey? Well, now is your chance to secure a delicious turkey for that Christmas dinner! The Junior Class will raffle off a 20 lb. turkey on December 16.  Raffle tickets will be available before and after school, December 8-16, at the front door. Do not miss this wonderful opportunity!

Semester Grades

Semester report cards will be available after 3:30 p.m. on Friday, January 9.  Student report cards will be posted under the document tab of their student profile.

Vision Screening – Monday, December 15

We are very blessed to have the Children’s Screening Services (CSS) volunteers of Mercy Medical Center come to our school to conduct a free vision screening. They will be here on December 15 to screen grades K3, K4, K, 2^nd in the morning and 5^th, 7^th and 9^th in the afternoon. Permission slips are coming home in Friday Folders for grades K3, K4, K, 2^nd and 5^th. Permission slips were given out to grades 7^th and 9^th in homeroom. Please ask your student for the slip. After signing the slip, return to your child’s teacher by December 12. The screening is free and you will be notified if any vision problems are detected.

No After School Care December 19

Reminder to all After School Care Parents:  The next Early Release Day for Elementary Students is Dec. 19, the half day to start the Christmas Break. There is NO After School Care that day. Thank you for making a note of this. Please mark it on your calendar to make other arrangements if needed.

MS/HS Teacher Virtual Christmas Wish List Tree

Looking for a way to bless your child’s teacher(s) this Christmas? Check out the Christmas Wish List tree in the elementary front entryway or check out the MS/HS Virtual Christmas Tree wish list at www.SignUpGenius.com/go/8050949A8A823A02-2014

Yearbook Early Bird Discount

Now is the time to order memories!  Now through December 16 the high school yearbook is available at a discounted price of $45 and the elementary/middle school yearbook is $28.

After the holidays, the price goes up to $50 for high school and $33 for elementary/middle school.  The deadline to purchase a yearbook is January 16.  There will be a limited number of extra yearbooks at the time of delivery in spring. The cost at delivery will be $55 and $38.  Please turn in order form and money to Mrs. Busch or Mrs. Steeves.

Elementary Christmas Concert

Our Elementary Concert is Tuesday, December 16 at 6:30 pm at New Life Community Church, 3250 W. Ninth Avenue in Oshkosh.

Please do not arrive at the church before 6:00 p.m. and, in order to make sure we have our teachers in place before the doors are opened, the main doors will remain locked until 6:00 p.m. Please bring your child to the double-classroom (located in the children’s classroom wing) by 6:15 p.m. Please have your child dress in their “Christmas best” which means NO jeans or sweat pants.

International Club Invites You

Tomorrow, Saturday, Dec. 13, 2-4 p.m. in the Valley Christian School Commons. Open to all high school students. Come learn and discover other countries’ festivals. There will be games and food provided. We hope you all can come and join us for this event!

Host an International Student 2^nd Semester

ISP, the organization that coordinates the Chinese International Program, is looking for a full-time family to host a ninth grade boy for second semester.  Interested families should contact Karen Cooley at kcooley@vcoshkosh.com.  A monthly stipend is provided to the host family.  This is a great opportunity to make a difference in an international student’s American experience.

Scrip Orders for the Holiday Season

Monday, Dec. 15 – Scrip Order

Monday, Jan. 5 – Scrip Order

Please inform your friends and family members who order scrip as well.  We will NOT place an order over Christmas break so please plan accordingly for those two weeks as well.  If you are signed up for Prestopay, you can still buy ScripNow and reload your cards during the Christmas break.

HS Boys Basketball

Mon. Dec. 15 – Home Game vs Randolph High School – JV – 6:00 p.m.;  Varsity – 7:30 p.m.

Fri. Dec. 19 – Away Game @ Pardeeville High School – JV – 6:00 p.m.;  Varsity – 7:30 p.m.

HS Girls Basketball

Fri. Dec. 12 – Away Game @ Abundant Life – 6:30 p.m.

MS Boys Basketball

Fri. Dec. 12 – Away Game @ Trinity Lutheran Menasha – A & B Teams Mix – 6:30 p.m.

Mon. Dec. 15 – Away Game @ Fox Valley Christian Academy – B Team – 4:30 p.m.;   A Team – 5:30 p.m.

MS Girls Basketball

Fri. Dec. 12 – Away Game @ Trinity Lutheran Menasha – 5:30 p.m.

Changes Happen

As happens throughout each season, especially basketball, game dates and times can change.  Please check the Athletic schedule OFTEN!!  Go to valleychristianoshkosh.com.  Click on the “Athletics” tab toward the top of the page.  Then click the “2014-2015 Athletic Calendar” button.  You will see the week’s activities from that screen.  To view an entire schedule, go to the “View Schedules” box on the right side of the screen, check mark the schedule you want, and click on “View”.  The schedule will appear in a printable format.  Please contact Mr. Abel via phone or email if you have any questions.

05 FRI – HS Boys BB Away
06 SAT – Dinner for Host Families
08 MON – MS Boys & Girls BB @ Home
09 TUE – HS Boys BB @ Home
11 THU – MS/HS Christmas Concert
12 FRI – HS Girls BB Away
12 FRI – MS Boys & Girls BB Away

Jr. Class Fundraisers

The junior class is working hard to raise funds for their senior trip.  Below are some easy ways to support their efforts.  Thank you in advance for helping the junior class.

Christmas Turkey Raffle: Didn’t get enough Thanksgiving turkey? Well, now is your chance to secure a delicious turkey for that Christmas dinner! The Junior Class will raffle off a 20 lb. turkey on December 16.  Raffle tickets will be available before and after school, December 8-16, at the front door. Do not miss this wonderful opportunity!

Candy Count: Need sweets for the holidays? The junior class will be hosting a Candy Count, before and after school, December 8-12 near the front doors. Pay just one dollar to guess the amount of candy in a jar.  The closest guess wins the entire jar!  Increase your chances by entering several guesses.  Do not miss out on your share of candy, fill up that candy dish for company; it is just one dollar!

Vision Screening – Monday, December 15

We are very blessed to have the Children’s Screening Services (CSS) volunteers of Mercy Medical Center come to our school to conduct a free vision screening. They will be here on December 15 to screen grades K3, K4, K, 2 in the morning and 5, 7 and 9 in the afternoon. Permission slips are coming home in Friday Folders for grades K3, K4, K, 2 and 5. Permission slips were given out to grades 7 and 9 in homeroom. Please ask your student for the slip. After signing the slip, return to your child’s teacher by December 12. The screening is free and you will be notified if any vision problems are detected.

Elementary Teacher Christmas Wish List Tree

Once again in 2014, if you would like to bless your child’s teacher(s) with a gift, we have set up the Annual Christmas Wish List Tree.  The tree is set up in the front hallway outside of Mrs. Busch’s office.  Please browse the ornaments (tags) with the names and requested items from the teachers.  Feel free to wrap your gift, using the gift tag to label your gift.  Bring the gift to the teacher’s classroom before we break for Christmas (12/19).

There are also tags and ideas for Music, Library, After School Care and Special Services on the tree if you like to additionally bless those classrooms.

MS/HS Teacher Virtual Christmas Wish List Tree

Many MS/HS Parents do not have access to the wish list tree in the elementary hall by Mrs. Busch’s office. That being the case, a VIRTUAL Christmas tree has been created for Middle School and High School parents to use to consider ways to bless the MS/HS teachers. The teachers have provided a wish list.  Follow this link  for ideas of how your family can provide a gift for one of our MS and HS teachers.   Please contact Valerie Gehrke (vcohngehrke@sbcglobal.net) with questions.

Yearbooks Early Bird Discount

Now is the time to order memories!  Now through December 16 the high school yearbook is available at a discounted price of $45 and the elementary/middle school yearbook is $28.

After the holidays, the price goes up to $50 for high school and $33 for elementary/middle school.  The deadline to purchase a yearbook is January 16.  There will be a limited number of extra yearbooks at the time of delivery in spring. The cost at delivery will be $55 and $38.

Please turn in order form and money to Mrs. Busch or Mrs. Steeves.

Parking Lot

We have made a few changes in order to alleviate congestion in the school’s front parking lot.

In the morning: we have shortened the morning drop off lane so that it ends at the crosswalk, opening up additional parking spaces on the north portion of the lot, nearest the building.

In the afternoon: the buses arrive earlier than in previous years, when they arrive, they block cars parked in the spots nearest the building on the south side of the parking lot.  We are working with the drivers/bus company so that the buses don’t arrive until 3:30 p.m. when middle and high school students are released. Hopefully, this problem is resolved as well.

Please, as always, use extra caution when backing out of parking spaces and when walking through the parking lot.  Even with the new drop off lane, there are still many people walking through the parking lot.  Please help us keep everyone safe.

Family Email now on Facebook and Website

The Family email will now be available each week on Facebook.  Along with receiving it via email, for your convenience, we will also post it on Facebook as well as on our website “blog.”  The family email is the school’s main tool for communicating with our families about all the “goings on” here at VCS.

Christmas Concerts

Christmas concerts will be here before we know it.  Please save the dates and be sure to invite friends and family:

Our Middle and High School Concert is Thursday, December 11, at 7:00 p.m., at Plymouth Congregational Church.

Our Elementary Concert is Tuesday, December 16 at 6:30 pm at New Life Community Church, 3250 W. Ninth Avenue in Oshkosh.

For the elementary concert, we ask that you please do not arrive at the church before 6:00 p.m. and, in order to make sure we have our teachers in place before the doors are opened, the main doors will remain locked until 6:00 p.m. Please bring your child to the double-classroom (located in the children’s classroom wing) by 6:15 p.m. Please have your child dress in their “Christmas best” which means NO jeans or sweat pants.

International Club Invites You

Saturday, Dec. 13, 2-4 p.m. in the Valley Christian School Commons. Open to all high school students. Come learn and discover other countries’ festivals. There will be games and food provided. We hope you all can come and join us for this event!

Host an International Student over the Christmas Holiday

ISP, the organization that coordinates the Chinese International Program, is looking for a full-time family to host a ninth grade boy for second semester.  Interested families should contact Karen Cooley at kcooley@vcoshkosh.com.  A monthly stipend is provided to the host family.  This is a great opportunity to make a difference in an international student’s American experience.

SEEC is still in need of a family to host one HS boy or one HS girl over the Christmas holiday.  If you are interested in hosting a student during an upcoming holiday, please contact seecusa@gmail.com to discuss arrangements, or contact the International Student Program at VCS at kcooley@vcoshkosh.com.  Families willing to host a student for the full two-week Christmas holiday will receive financial compensation.

Scrip Orders for the Holiday Season

Monday, Dec. 8 – Scrip Order

Monday, Dec. 15 – Scrip Order

Monday, Jan. 5 – Scrip Order

Please inform your friends and family members who order scrip as well.  We will NOT place an order over Christmas break so please plan accordingly for those two weeks as well.

BLESS

The Panama Mission Team is collecting items to give away to the children in Panama. We will be hand delivering the gifts to the children and it is so cool to see their little faces light up when they get little toys and trinkets – items they could never afford. Please help us bless the children in Panama.  Here’s a list of items we are collecting:

• Toys:  small dolls, toy cars, small stuffed animals, kazoos, harmonicas, yo-yos, jump ropes, balls
• School Supplies: pens, pencils and sharpeners, crayons, markers, solar calculators
• Bags of non–melty candy
• Non-Liquid Hygiene Items: toothbrushes, bar soap, combs, washcloths, etc.
• Accessories: hair clips, jewelry, watches, flashlights (with extra batteries), etc.
• Do Not Include: Used or damaged items; war-related items such as toy guns, knives or military figures; chocolate; out-of-date candy; liquids or lotions; medications or vitamins; breakable items such as snow globes or glass containers; aerosol cans.

The people in Panama have also requested sandals of all sizes. They can be gently used or new. Thank you in advance for helping us bless the children of Panama on our spring mission trip.  Please bring donation items to either Mrs. Busch or Mrs. Steeves.

HS Boys Basketball

Fri., Dec. 5 – Away Game @ Markesan High School: JV – 6:00 pm; Varsity – 7:30 p.m.

Tues. Dec. 9 – Home Game vs Green Lake/Princeton: JV – 6:00 p.m.; Varsity – 7:30 p.m.

HS Girls Basketball

Fri. Dec. 12 – Away Game @ Abundant Life Christian – 6:30 p.m.

MS Boys Basketball

Mon. Dec. 8 – Home Game vs Central Wisconsin Christian: B Team – 5:30 p.m.; A Team – 6:30 p.m.

Fri. Dec. 12 – Away Game @ Trinity Lutheran School, Menasha: A & B Team – 6:30 p.m.

MS Girls Basketball

Mon. Dec. 8 – Home Game vs Central Wisconsin Christian – 4:30 p.m.

Fri. Dec. 12 – Away Game @ Trinity Lutheran School, Menasha – 5:30 p.m.

Changes Happen

As happens throughout each season, especially basketball, game dates and times can change.  Please check the Athletic schedule OFTEN!!  Go to valleychristianoshkosh.com.  Click on the “Athletics” tab toward the top of the page.  Then click the “2014-2015 Athletic Calendar” button.  You will see the week’s activities from that screen.  To view an entire schedule, go to the “View Schedules” box on the right side of the screen, check mark the schedule you want, and click on “View”.  The schedule will appear in a printable format.  Please contact Mr. Abel via phone or email if you have any questions.