Dear Parents,
 
We had an excellent beginning for online learning! I want to thank God and you for entrusting your precious children to Valley Christian Schools’ teachers, staff, and administrators. Faculty and staff are "leaning in" like never before. Despite the uncertainty, these are exciting times with significant challenges, opportunities, discovery, and divine joy!
 
The pace at which our teachers ramped up to a complete online instructional program is amazing! The team effort is outstanding, from our terrific IT guidance and incredible parental support to the hard-working efforts of our students. What we are learning now will improve instruction when we return to our campuses. Faith, hope, and love are flowing from our Lord through each of you to our entire VCS community. 

We continue to assess the rapidly evolving situation. We are aligning with the latest guidelines set by the Santa Clara County Office of Education ( SCCOE) and the Santa Clara County Public Health Department (SCCPH) to postpone a return to campus through May 1 st . If the pandemic subsides sooner than expected and community restrictions to gather loosen, we will bring students back to campus as soon as possible.

Encouraging Parent Comments :

“The teachers and staff are amazing, but we can’t overlook what God did for us. Our successful launch is a miracle, and we need to thank Him!”
 
“From a parent’s perspective: What an awesome first week. A+ on technology, communication, and delivery. Very, very grateful …”
 
“Valley Christian rocks as the best school in terms of organization and everyone in the Bay Area is talking about it. Great job and God bless.”
 
“Praying for our teachers and staff daily. If only they knew the impact they’re making on our kiddos. My boys have loved and look forward to active learning with their teachers and friends. It’s a blessing to all of us.”
 
“Mrs. Roth called my granddaughter and talked to her on the phone. I can’t tell you how happy it made her.”
 
One report came from a mother who said she wants to join her student’s Bible class with her child because it’s so engaging and meaningful.
 
Faculty/Staff/Administrator Home Learning Tips :

“If there is one thing I have learned in these last few days with my children and my students, it’s the importance of stepping away from their screens to get outside for at least 15 minutes every day. It is incredibly easy for us all to get stuck behind our computers and iPads, forgetting to give our eyes, minds, and souls a rest.”
 
“I am urging my students to engage in creativity! During these times, when we feel isolated, alone, unconnected, and lacking our voice or choice, it is the perfect time to encourage students to cultivate their curiosity. We are not looking for perfection or a masterpiece but instead a vehicle or outlet to express God’s hope, beauty, and love for us even in adversity! This process is a way for them to develop their voice and a life-long tool to deal with hard times.”

“Technical online learning difficulties should be directed to the teacher as the first line of support. If the teacher is unable to address the concern, parents and students can visit http://support.vcs.net to ask a question. Inquiries are monitored and responded to promptly. All submissions are visible to the entire leadership team.”
 
Finally, as a Christian community, we care about each other. Perhaps you need help with grocery shopping or other errands. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to a teacher, administrator, or me with your requests. We certainly don’t want to lose even one student because of financial hardship during this COVID-19 pandemic. You may email my office and share prayer requests with Jennifer or Karina . Each campus also has prayer intercessor groups that meet weekly.
 
A promise from God came to mind this morning, and it’s a great comfort when we think of those in need, “Pray to me when you are in trouble. I will deliver you, and you will honor me.” Psalm 50:15 (NET)
 
Blessings and prayers for everyone’s good health and safety!
 
In His care,
Clifford E. Daugherty, EdD
President
Valley Christian Schools