Summer camp. 1981. In the midst of Summer '26, just a few months after losing my Mom, this is the summer memory that keeps flooding back to my mind. That was a summer wherein Jesus and I came to a very special understanding. It was Okoboji Lutheran's Family Bible Camp and my folks had loaded up the Oldsmobile station wagon and took the family to do camp
The camp's mess hall was on a hill that overlooked the entire camp in such a way that you could see sunlight rippling off the Okoboji water and the crystal clear reflection illuminated a majestic and monumental wooden cross that stood in the center of camp. Striking. Glorious. And, tempting. Too tempting for 7th grade Geoff Brown.
It was during dinner I had picked the time specifically when I knew that every family, every counselor, and every camper would be there. Eating Sloppy Joe's and looking out at the lake and the cross.
Climbing up on that cross was no easy feat. There were no hand-holds or edges I could grab It was impressive -- I shimmied up that crucifix, stretched out my arms, and hung on the cross.
To this day, I'm not completely clear why I did it. Perhaps I wanted to provide an object lesson for all the Christian campers Maybe I was looking to get some laughs I suspect the simplest explanation, the correct explanation, is the explanation with just two words: "seventh grade".
As it turns out, my pseudo-crucifixion-object-lesson was a huge mistake
A HUGE mistake.
Witnesses now report that the line of folks waiting to yell at me afterwards stretched from the Lutheran camp administrator's office all the way to the rec hall Some report that the great reformer Martin Luther himself had even come back from the dead to yell at me though, having never met the man, I cannot be too sure
Several hours later, after all the yelling, what my father and mother did when they finally got me alone, in solitary confinement and in my cabin where I would be grounded for the balance of the camp week, was the most impactful of all
They chuckled.
Again, I am not sure why but, somehow, once you push past all the heresy and iconoclastic junior high hijinks, I think that they may have thought it was funny. Perhaps it was because Mom had grown up Catholic and there was the whole Catholic/Lutheran thing Either way, I am almost positive that, before they came into the room, I heard my Dad whisper to my Mom, "Alex, I'll take 'religious martyrs' for $200, please " (Still not sure what that might have meant.)
That was the summer that my parents taught me -- because they modeled it for me -something very, very special about Jesus. At the time, I thought it might have been a dark and deep religious secret because no one had ever told it to me before: Jesus is fun. He's magnanimous. He's hilarious. It is enjoyable to spend time with Him. Sometimes, He's ridiculous. (Think "giraffes". He made giraffes. On purpose.)
On Earth, Jesus was a first-century carpenter turned itinerant preacher who attracted twelve young, rough-and-tumble, salt-of-the-earth fishermen, farmers, tax collectors, and the like to leave everything behind, follow Him for three years, and, eventually, die for Him.
In the four gospels, we are only given a picture of 24 of those days in sum That means there were 1,071 days that Jesus spent with these guys that we know nothing about Except this: you better believe He made them laugh. You better believe that He was captivating. Funny. Whimsical. Inspiring.
That's the Jesus I want your student to meet this coming year at Northwest Christian. Amidst the math, grammar, writing, clubs, events, concerts, sports, and theater, we are going to have some fun Some laughs We'll make memories Fun memories
What follows, within what we have come to call the “What’s Next?” packet, you will find all of our scheming, planning, and anticipating In short, all the fun we can fit in the 180 you have graciously agreed to give us with your precious students
In the process, my earnest prayer is that they will meet the same Jesus I met back in '81.
Pleased to serve your family, Geoff Brown Superintendent
Northwest Christian School (623)225-5573 (cell) gbrown@ncsaz org
All School
Early Education
Elementary
Middle School
High School
ALL SCHOOL NCS
Northwest Christian School
Calendar 2026-2027
AUGUST
5 MS & HS Registration
6 Elementary (K-5th) “Meet the Teacher” Day
Kindergarten - 2nd Grade “Back to School Night” Early Ed Orientation
10 School Begins- All Ground Including Early Ed
12-14 HS Camp 17 Online school begins
25 Elementary “Back to School Night” K-5 Picture Day
27 MS & HS “Back to School” Night
6-12 Picture Day
SEPTEMBER
4 No School - Teacher In-Service 7 Labor Day – No School 23-24 Preschool Picture Day OCTOBER
1 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences 11:00 a m Dismissal – K-12 No School Preschool, Mini Crusaders
2 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences No School for Elementary, Mini Cru, Preschool MS and HS – 11:00 a m Dismissal
5-9 Fall Break – No School
NOVEMBER
9 Veterans Day Observance- No School 23-24 Grandparents Days 25 Thanksgiving Vacation Begins –11:00 a.m. Dismissal
26-27 Thanksgiving Vacation DECEMBER
15 High School Final Exams – Full Day 16-17 High School Final Exams 18 Christmas Break Begins –11:00 a m Dismissal (All Grades)
JANUARY
School Resumes
Online School Resumes
No school - Teacher In-Service
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – No School
FEBRUARY 9 Open House & Curriculum Showcase 12 No School - Teacher In-Service All School Re-enrollment & Deposit Due 15 Presidents’ Day – No School
MARCH 11 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences 11:00 a.m. Dismissal – K-12 No School Preschool and Mini Crusaders 12 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher ConferencesNo School for Elementary, Mini Cru, Preschool MS and HS – 11:00 a.m. Dismissal 15-19 Spring Break 22 School Resumes 26 Good Friday- No School 29 Easter Monday - No School
30 No School - Teacher In-Service
17-21 Senior Final Exams 25 High School Final Exams – Full Day 27 11:00 a.m. Dismissal (Early Ed & HS) 28 Last Day of School – 11:00 a.m. Dismissal (All Grades) 8th Grade Promotion Senior Graduation – 7:00 p m
Northwest Christian School
Online Calendar 2026-2027
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
MAY
17-21 Senior Final Exams 25-28 8th-11th Grade Final Exams 26-27 On Campus Half Days - High School Only*
On Campus Half Day - All Grades*
Day of School 8th Grade Promotion Senior Graduation – 7:00 p.m.
ESA funding and AAA scholarship coordination with tax credits have provided great support for the funding of private education! Tricia Mucklow serves as the NCS Business Manager and Monette Mason is managing tuition accounts as the Accounts Receivable Assistant. Diane Shulda will continue to assist families with their MySchoolBucks lunch account needs.
As we go into the 26-27 school year, we want to remind our families that payments are due on the 1st of each month. A late fee of $50 will be charged to the tuition account after the 7th of every month, if the monthly payment is not received in full The tuition accounts of families awaiting tax credits or ESA funding are still subject to late fees. Any credit balances from the 25-26 school year will be applied to the 26-27 school year in July. Credit balances are refunded if your students graduate or are withdrawn from NCS. If your student is a Senior in the 26-27 school year, the ENTIRE family tuition balance through May AND the Senior’s entire tuition balance, is due by May 14, 2027 to guarantee participation in the graduation ceremony and year end trips For your convenience, tuition charges for seniors have been prorated over 10 months to assist families with meeting this deadline
If a family pays the full annual family tuition amount on or before August 10, 2026, a 3% discount of the full tuition amount will be applied at a later date Please click here for the 26-27 tuition schedules, the totals that reflect the 3% discount, and for details regarding family discounts. Tuition payments are made through your Blackbaud portal on the NCS website If you use a credit or debit card, Blackbaud Tuition Management (BTM) charges a 3 12% convenience fee Payments made with a checking account are charged a 1 00% + $0 30 platform fee (not to exceed $2.50 per transaction). Automatic payments are available through BTM and can be set up via the portal on our website. If you prefer to mail a check, please send it directly to NCS (not Blackbaud Tuition Management).) For your convenience, a secure drop box is available in the administration building. Payments by check, cash or money order are accepted in the Business Office
We receive tax credits starting in July and award cycles continue throughout the school year. Awards are available when they are posted to your NCS family tuition account Once you are notified of an award by the STO, it can take up to four weeks for that award to be received by the Business Office and posted to your account. For more information regarding tax credits and some of the STO’s we work with, please click here. The tuition accounts of families awaiting tax credit funding are still subject to late fees.
Empowerment Scholarship Accounts (ESA) are available to all K-12 students through the Arizona Department of Education ESA funding is PROHIBITED in the same school year that a student receives any tax credit funding. To learn more about this program or to apply, please visit the AZ Department of Education Website. In order to assist families with compliance, please inform the Business Office if you apply for ESA Funding. (Monette Mason, ext 527) ESA funding is available at the beginning of each quarter in July, October, January and April The funding should be disbursed QUARTERLY as soon as you receive notification that funds are available Parents should disburse funding to the school for tuition payments The Business Office has created a one page document to disburse ESA funding A personalized document and instructions will be emailed to families that have notified the Business Office regarding their signed ESA contract for the 26-27 school year. The tuition accounts of families awaiting ESA funding are still subject to late fees. Families utilizing ESA funds are expected to make regular monthly payments equal to 1/10 of the annual family responsibility A $50 late fee may be assessed each month a regular payment is not received even if the family account has a credit balance as a result of ESA funding or tax credits. For additional assistance please email Monette Mason mmason@ncsaz org
The Business Office is unable to direct your decision regarding Tax Credits or ESA. This is a personal choice based on the circumstances of individual families We are happy to assist with information as needed
Early Education students have a (BTM) tuition account that is combined with your student(s) in K-12. If your student(s) utilize our extended care program, those charges will be paid through your Procare App and are due weekly Preschool tuition must be paid monthly even if the family account has a credit balance as a result of ESA funding or tax credits received by older siblings. A $50 late fee may be assessed if preschool tuition is not paid monthly.
Activity fees will be added to your tuition account by August 1st Those fees vary by grade level and are due by AUGUST 11th Late fees of $50 per month will be charged for unpaid activity fees as of September 8th. Activity fees will be collected at Meet the Teacher and Registration Day or may be paid through your Tuition Management portal. Activity fees are nonrefundable and are not eligible to be covered by tax credits.
We appreciate your continued support! The timely payment of tuition is essential to the financial wellbeing of our school. We are blessed beyond measure to have teachers, faculty and community at a school like NCS!
We know families sometimes have financial difficulties and we are here to help Please contact the Business Office if you have an extenuating circumstance such as illness, loss of a job, death, divorce, etc. We appreciate communication and may be able to offer assistance.
$7.50/hr. Pre-Scheduled Available 7:30am - 8:00am and 3:00pm - 5:30pm
$8.00/hr. Drop in Fees - Non-Refundable
Fee, due upon acceptance
Re-Enrollment Fee, by 2/13/26
- includes $150 course credit, $400 if not completed by 8/1/26
Re-Enrollment Fee, after 2/13/26
- includes $150 course credit, $450 if not completed by 8/1/26
*Students in all grade levels with late re-enrollment agreement submissions may be subject to a wait list
$300
Program Change Fee $50
Student Activity Fees
K-5 (non-refundable) $50 *Student Activity Fees will be charged to Tuition Management accounts
6-8 (non-refundable) $120 *Fees are due in full before the first day of school, 8/10/26
9-12 (non-refundable) $225
*Student Activity Fees are subject to late fees after 8/10/26
Multi-Student Discounts (Kindergarten - 12)
1st Child Regular price
2nd Child 10% to both students
3rd Child 18% to all three students
4th Child + A discounted tuition rate of $4,000 for Kindergarten and $7,000 for grades 1-12 will be given to the 4th and any additional K-12 students in the family Online/Flex students will receive an 18% discount on their tuition Early Education, Preschool, Homeschool, or Frameworks are not included in the multi-student discount.
Enrollment Refund Policy
Enrollment and re-enrollment fees are non-refundable for the 26-27 school year.
Tuition Payment Policy
• Tuition for Kindergarten through 11th Grade on the ground students will be divided into eleven monthly payments. The first payment is due Aug 1 and the last payment is due on or before June 1. Tuition for Seniors will be divided into 10 monthly payments. The final payment is due on or before May 1.
• Any payment received after the seventh of the month will be considered late and the account will be assessed a $50 late charge.
• If an account becomes more than 60 days past due, the student may not be allowed to attend class until the account is brought current.
• There is a $25 charge on all checks returned by the bank.
• Tuition for graduating seniors must be paid in full by May 15th in order for the student to participate in year end trips and graduation ceremonies. Additionally, the remaining family account must be paid through May
• If annual family tuition is paid in full on or before the first day of school (8/10/26), the family will receive a three percent discount.
• Parents must inform the finance office upon acceptance of an ESA contract in any quarter
01/09/2026
Northwest Christian School
Early Education Tuition & Fees
2026-2027
Grade/Age Levels
Mini Crusaders Half Day Option (8:30 am - 11:30 am) - Walkers & 2’s
Tuesday/Thursday $ 3,390 Not
Monday/Wednesday/Friday $ 4,560 Not
$339 - Ten months, August through May
$456 - Ten months, August through May Monday through Friday $ 7,090 Not
Preschool Half Day Option (8:30 am - 11:30 am) - 3’s, 4’s/Pre-K
Tuesday/Thursday
3,730 $3,618
- Ten months, August through May
- Ten months, August through May Monday/Wednesday/Friday
through Friday
5,020 $4,870
- Ten months, August through May
7,790 $7,556 $779 - Ten months, August through May
Preschool Full Day Option (8:30 am - 3:00 pm) - 3’s, 4’s/Pre-K Tuesday/Thursday
agreement submissions may be subject to a wait list. Student Activity Fees
P3-PK (non-refundable) $50
*Student Activity Fees will be charged to Tuition Management accounts
*Fees are due in full before the first day of school, 8/10/26
*Student Activity Fees are subject to late fees after 8/10/26
(Preschool Only)
Northwest Christian School
K-12 Online School Tuition & Fees
2026-2027
Fee, after 2/13/26
- includes $150 course credit, $250 if not completed by 8/1/26 *Students in all grade levels with late re-enrollment agreement submissions may be subject to a wait list.
Enrollment and re-enrollment fees are non-refundable for the 26-27 school year.
Tuition Payment Policy
• Tuition for Kindergarten through 11th grade for full time online and flex students will be divided into ten monthly payments. The first payment is due August 1 and the last payment is due on or before June 1. Tuition for Seniors will be divided into 10 monthly payments. The final payment is due on or before May 1.
• Tuition for graduating seniors must be paid in full by May 15th in order for the student to participate in year end trips and graduation ceremonies. Additionally, the remaining family account must be paid through May
• Any payment received after the seventh of the month will be considered late and the account will be assessed a $50 late charge.
• If an account becomes more than 60 days past due, the student may not be allowed to attend class until the account is brought current.
• There is a $25 charge on all checks returned by the bank.
• If annual family tuition is paid in full on or before the first day of school (8/10/26), the family will receive a three percent discount.
• Parents must inform the finance office upon acceptance of an ESA contract in any quarter Updated 01/09/2026
OVERVIEW
TUITION ASSISTANCE
WAYS TO AFFORD A CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
Arizona offers two excellent School Choice programs to help families afford a Christian education: the Private School Tax Credit and the Universal ESA. These valuable options are widely used by families at Northwest Christian School to make a quality Christian education more accessible Explore the details of both programs here, and find the resources you need to determine which one is the best fit for your family.
PRIVATE SCHOOL TAX CREDIT
OVERVIEW
The Arizona School Tuition Organization (STO) program is a school choice option that allows Arizona taxpayers to redirect a portion of their state income tax liability to support private school tuition for eligible students. This initiative provides financial assistance to students who attend private schools by using tax credits rather than state funds. The Arizona tax credit system incentivizes taxpayers to contribute to private school tuition funds. By donating to an STO, individuals or corporations can reduce their Arizona state tax bill. This allows taxpayers to effectively "redirect" their tax dollars to support educational opportunities that align with their preferences, without spending extra money out of pocket.
ELIGIBILITY
Eligibility varies for each type of Private School Tax Credit. Learn more on the NCS Website under Admissions > Tuition Assistance.
FUNDING AMOUNT
There is potential for the full cost of tuition to be covered through the Private School Tax Credit program. Students can receive a combination of different types of tax credits in order to fully cover the tuition amount.
CONSIDERATIONS
You cannot use both ESA and receive money from STO’s, you must choose one option or the other.
Your total, combined award amount is unlimited meaning you can combine awards from multiple STO sources. This means you have the potential to get the full tuition amount covered.
Unused individual tax credits can carry over to future years if your results exceed the cost of tuition for the year.
You can "Bank" tax credits (not corporate) for future use while using ESA.
You can switch off every other year using ESA and then Tax Credits in order to allow your "Bank" of tax credits to build up.
USING PRIVATE SCHOOL TAX CREDITS FOR TUITION & FEES AT NCS
Family, friends, co-workers, neighbors, etc allocate their state tax liability to your student through an STO in return the funds can be applied to your students tuition.
Applications for the upcoming school year begin opening in January. Each STO has their own timeline.
If you are corporate qualifying we highly recommend you apply to all of the STO's on our list.
AAA & AOA are great corporate options as they typically award at the corporate maximum each year (currently $6,700 K-8, $8,500 9-12) and can be stacked with other corporate awards and tax credits. Families are responsible for the balance of tuition not covered by STO/Tax credit funds.
UNIVERSAL ESA
OVERVIEW
The Arizona Universal Education Savings Account (ESA) program, which was implemented in 2022, is a school choice initiative that allows all Arizona K-12 students, regardless of income or disability status, to receive state funds to use for a variety of educational expenses. These funds can be used for private school tuition, tutoring, special education services, online learning, college savings, and other approved educational costs.
ELIGIBILITY
The Universal ESA program is open to all Arizona students, including those currently enrolled in public, private, charter, or homeschool settings. Students who are currently enrolled in public schools can apply to receive an ESA, which provides them with funds to attend a private school or to pursue alternative educational options. There are no income restrictions, and any student who is a resident of Arizona is eligible to apply.
FUNDING AMOUNT
The amount of funding available to each student is based on the state's per-pupil funding for public schools. The funds are deposited into an individual education savings account (ESA) for each student, which can be accessed through a designated online portal. Students may receive on average, anywhere between $7,000-$7,500 annually. Kindergarten students receive closer to $4,000.
CONSIDERATIONS
You cannot use both ESA and receive money from STO’s, you must choose one option or the other.
If you choose to use ESA, you are guaranteed to receive money, however in most cases, it will not cover the full cost of tuition. You can switch off every other year using ESA and then Tax Credits in order to allow your "Bank" of tax credits to build up.
USING ESA FOR TUITION & FEES AT NCS
First, apply for the Universal ESA by visiting the website and filling out the application. It currently takes approximately 60 days to receive an approval from the state and determine how much you are eligible to receive. Once approved, monies will be dispersed in your ESA account quarterly: May, April, June, July. You will be expected to pay monthly tuition at NCS, so you must be on top of your payments. To pay NCS, you must login to your ESA portal and distribute the funds to NCS on a monthly basis.
REFERRAL CREDIT PROGRAM
NCS FAMILIES, DID YOU KNOW NCS HAS A REFERRAL PROGRAM?
That's right! Any Northwest Christian School family who refers another family (who then applies and is admitted) to NCS will receive a referral credit of up to $500 towards tuition!
HOW IT WORKS
Step 1. Any current NCS family (early education, K-12 or Online/Flex) refers a new, non-NCS family to an NCS program (early education, K-12 or Online/Online Flex/Homeschool Flex)
Step 2. The referred family submits an application and lists the referral family by name on the application (if multiple families are listed, the credit is split amongst the listed families.The split is limited to 2 families).
Step 3. The referred family is admitted to their applied NCS program (early education, K-12 or Online/Online Flex/Homeschool Flex) and remains enrolled for a full semester. The referred family account must be in good standing by the end of the semester.
Step 4. The referral family receives a referral credit towards their tuition! ($100 if the referred family is enrolled in early education, $500 if the referred family is enrolled in K-12 or Online/ Online Flex/Homeschool Flex).
WHY A REFERRAL PROGRAM?
Did you know that the #1 way that people hear about NCS is word of mouth? Would you consider supporting NCS by sharing about our wonderful school with your community?
WAYS TO SHARE/SUPPORT NCS & NCS ONLINE
1) Word of mouth, literally! Tell your friends!
2) Follow NCS (@ncscrusaders) on Instagram and consider sharing the profile or reposting a post on your Instagram account (don't forget to tag @ncscrusaders)
3) Like NCS Phoenix AZ on Facebook and consider posting about NCS!
FOR MORE DETAILED INFORMATION, PLEASE REVIEW THE REFERRAL CREDIT PROGRAM POLICY
QUESTIONS?
Please contact the Business Office for questions regarding the Referral Credit Program
CRUSADER CAFE - MY SCHOOLBUCKS
Cashless Payment
The Crusader Cafe utilizes a cashless payment system for all students and staff MySchoolBuckscom will be usedexclusively as thepaymentmethodas cashis notaccepted.
All elementary students will have an ID to present at the Cafe to purchase items All students (including elementary) will have a barcode on their ID which will be scanned to allow servers access to your student's account to purchase their snacks/lunches. MySchoolBucks gives parents the convenience and flexibility of one account to securely pay for all their student's meals with a credit card, debit card or electronic check MySchoolBucks accepts Visa, Master Card, Discover, and American Express.
Below, we hope to answer questions you might have about signing your student(s) up for MySchoolBucks account. There are a few options available to load money onto your student's account :
Pay As You Go: You may choose to load your child's account with any dollar amount up to $150 00 per student There is a $3 75 fee each time you load your students account with debit or credit and $3 50 when you load with echeck, however that fee is per transaction only - not per student. For example, you have three children, you may load all three accounts at one time for only $3.50 total. The pay as you go option accepts credit or debit card and echeck
Pay by Year Per Student: You may choose to pay a yearly membership fee of $12.95 per student which enables you to add funds up to $150.00 at any time. This would be ideal for households with one or two students Available by e-check only
Pay by Year Per Family: You may choose to pay a yearly membership fee of $26.95 for your "family" which enables you to add funds up to $150.00 at any time. This plan is ideal for families of three or more students Available by e-check only
To take advantage of the yearly membership plan when setting up your students account, "click" your name at the upper right corner on your screen, then "my user profile", then "update membership" You may also choose AutoPay when you are setting up your account by selecting "setup AutoPay" from the meal payment options page During the setup process, you may set up payments to occur when the account balance falls below your specified amount or on a set schedule. For example, when the account balance reaches an amount of your choice or on a given schedule, such as, on the first of every month, $X amount is deposited into your student's account After you have chosen your payment type and entered your settings, click "complete setup" to enable the settings. This convenient option lets you set it up once and lets MySchoolBucks handle the rest
Three Easy Steps to Setting Up MySchoolBucks Account
1. Go to MySchoolBucks.com or download the app and click on "sign up today".
2. Create a user profile with your email address, establish a password and add your students. 3 Pay with your credit/debit card or Echeck
Once you have created your account and selected your payment type, you're ready to go. Payments will show as "pending" on your meal account page until they post to your student's account at their school Meal funds are generally available for your student to use in 1-2 business days. At this time, you may also set up email reminders to add funds when your balance reaches a chosen amount.
MySchoolBucks also has a FREE Mobile app for both iPhone and Android at App Store or Play Store. You can quickly and securely add funds to your students account, using the same username and password you use on MySchoolBucks website
MySchoolBucks fees are subjectto change Ifyou have anyquestions, please contact Diane Shulda 602-978-5134ex 517or dshulda@ncsaz org
Monday – Samurai Sam’s
Teriyaki Steak and Rice
Teriyaki Chicken and Rice
Orange Chicken
Asian Chicken Salad
Tuesday – Chick-fil-A
5 count Nuggets
Sandwich
Spicy Sandwich
Apple Pecan Chicken Salad
Wednesday – Federico’s
Cheese Quesadilla
Bean & Cheese Burrito
Chicken & Bean Burrito
Chicken Taco Salad
Thursday – Sardella's Pizza
Small Slice of Pepperoni Pizza
Large Slice of Pepperoni Pizza
Italian Salad
Friday
Corn Dog
Cheeseburger
Chicken Pot Pie
Caesar Salad
Atomic Chicken
These items are subjectto change. Acomplete menu willbe available on registration day.
Quickly and easily order school meals in advance from your phone or desktop!
1 Go to mealorders.com and sign in with your MySchoolBucks account
Don’t have an account? Sign up free at myschoolbucks.com, then add your student(s) or give them access to place orders
2 Place meal orders for each of your student(s) for the upcoming week
3 Payment is deducted from your MySchoolBucks account when the meal is served (if applicable)
MEAL ORDERS INSTRUCTIONS & FAQs
Order Process
Go to MealOrders.com, Login using your MySchoolBucks log in credentials and “Create New Order.” Select Student, school, next, lunch period, in the cafeteria & next. From the list of dates on the right, select the day, choose the items, add the items to the cart. Multiple days may be selected up to 2 weeks in advance. Once order selections for the student are selected, go to your cart, review the cart and submit. Return to the home page and repeat the process for each student. Orders may be placed from 2 weeks in advance until the day of before 8:15am.
Menu Selection on MealOrders.com
The menu in the upper left corner may be used to start orders, cancel orders, add funds, view orders, add allergy settings and set up email preferences.
Order
Charges
MySchoolBucks accounts are not charged until the item is picked up from the Cafe. If your student is absent, please cancel the lunch order before 8:15am.
FASTER ORDER FULFILLMENT!
Student ID cards are scanned at the lunch counter. The order for the student populates and the lunch staff fulfills the order.
FAQs:
Will my student be able to get lunch if I forget to order?
Yes. The cafe prepares alternate meals each day. For example, on Mondays you may pre-order a meal from Samurai Sams or pick up Chicken Fried rice. The cafe also orders a limited amount of extra vendor prepared items. They are available on a First Come-First Served basis. Other nutritious items such as a bagel with cream cheese, yogurt and granola, string cheese, fruit, etc. may also be ordered at the lunch counter during lunch.
What is the order cut-off?
Orders may be placed from 2 weeks in advance until 8:15am the day of.
Do I have to pre-order sides and drinks?
Side orders, drinks, desert of the day, etc may be pre-ordered or ordered at the counter Pre-ordering of these items is required for 1st through 3rd grade. Pre-ordering is not required for 4th - 12th grade, however, pre-ordering is highly recommended to facilitate faster order fulfillment.
Who do I call if I need assistance?
Please call Diane Shulda in the Business Office at 602-978-5134 extension 517.
Can my student place a lunch order?
Secondary students may use their iPads to place orders on MealOrders.com once the student access has been granted by a parent. From the home page under student ordering select manage student access then send an “invite” to your student. Your student will login with their school email address and create an account for ordering.
What about my Kindergarten student?
Pre-ordering for Kindergarten students will begin September 8th Information will be communicated by Bree Tarbutton, Director of Early Education at a later date.
Can I add information about food allergies?
Yes! Please add food allergy information to your student’s profile on MealOrders.com. THE SCHOOL NURSE SHOULD ALSO BE MADE AWARE OF ANY AND ALL FOOD ALLERGIES ON THE STUDENT HEALTH FORM!!!
Technology Technology
Integrated suite of programs selected to reinforce and accelerate mastery of content for K-12
Robust learning management system tailored to needs of each grade level
K-3 Equip families with resources to support learning
4-5 Engage students with digital tools and citizenship
6-8 Enhance learning and practice responsible use of technology
9-12 Extend opportunities beyond campus in preparation for the future
Integrated student information system
Managed accounts for secure and seamless access to school digital tools
Variety of managed devices deployed to both classrooms and 1:1 for instruction and extra-curricular uses
Dedicated technology team to support students, parents, and staff in all facets of technology integration at Northwest Christian School
The Sutton Project, now the largest missions learning project on campus, epitomizes our mission fulfillment for all students as we meet the needs of those in our surrounding community. Through The Sutton Project we now provide 1700 Thanksgiving meal boxes for families at 16 different elementary schools across six districts. These food boxes serve as a sign of hope to those in a broken and needy community. We also partner with the local church to provide within the boxes an invitation to join their church community. Early Education and Elementary students participate by collecting/donating canned goods for the meal boxes. Middle School and High School students collect/donate money to go towards turkey vouchers that are provided within each box. At the end of the campaign, every student campus-wide participates in a ‘packing’ event to compile the various components of each box in an assembly-line setting. This is one of the best days on campus! High School Student Council then delivers and unloads the completed Thanksgiving meal boxes to each school!
Christmas Gifts
As we wrap up our Thanksgiving meal boxes, we immediately turn our attention to Christmas. The NCS community provides over 1200 Christmas gifts that are delivered to students at 3 elementary schools. These schools serve a significant number of refugees and their families. NCS high school students experience the joy of delivering these gifts to the students of these schools and have the opportunity to see our mission in action as we meet the needs of those less fortunate than us.
Sutton Game Day
Our Middle School Student Council hosts 3rd grade students from JB Sutton on our campus for ‘Game Day’ NCS middle school students enjoy a day of fun and opportunities to create community with our friends from Sutton!
According to Matthew 25:35-40, we are called to feed and clothe the needy. This project is a means by which our student body can come to understand that scriptural principle personally.
NEWYEAR. NEWGEAR.
VOTEFORNCS!!
#1 Ranked Private School in AZ!!
VOTE FOR NCS as #1 Ranked Private School in AZ!
AZ Big Media released their Ranking Arizona 2026 "Best of Arizona Business" list, and NCS was ranked 1st among the Best Private Schools in Arizona for it’s 11th consecutive year. Help us keep our #1 ranking and vote for NCS!
If you would like to vote NCS for next year's publication, just scan the QR code and follow the instructions below.
QUICK INSTRUCTIONS TO VOTE:
1) CLICK ON BUSINESS SERVICES (IN THE BROWN BOX)
2) EDUCATION PRIVATE SCHOOLS (ON THE LEFT, AS A SUB CATEGORY)
3) THEN, NORTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL.
You may vote for one company in each sub-category once per-hour.
Note: When voting, ensure the browser you are using (Fire Fox, Google Chrome, Safari, or Edge) allows cookies (third party) or you will find that you cannot proceed to vote.
VOTING FOR RANKING ARIZONA 2027 ENDS AT 11:59 pm JULY 31st, 2026.
Stitching Stitching
2026 Summer Stitching Events:
Early Ed. & Elementary:
KTR - July 29th @ 5:00pm-7:00pm
Middle School ONLY:
iFly Indoor Skydiving - July 21 @ 4:00pm-7:00pm s t
MS Back-to-School Party @ Gecko Climbing Gym - August 1 @ 6:00pm s t
High School ONLY:
Andretti Indoor Karting & Games - July 14 @ 4:00pm-7:00pm
HS Back-to-School Party @ Chicken N’ Pickle - August 4 @ 6:00pm-8:30pm
New HS Girls Dinner at Sauce Norterra - August 5 @ 5:30pm
The above events are an opportunity for both our new and existing families to connect and get "stitched" into the NCS family as well as meet others with children of the same age. Both parents and children are welcome to attend events and are responsible to arrange transportation and supervision as needed. If you would like to register, use the QR code above or click HERE!
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Scan the QR code to sign up and get connected with our Parent Service Cru!
CARPOOL SIGN UP
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS NCS
EARLY EDUCATION MINI CRUSADERSKINDERGARTEN NCS
FROM THE EARLY EDUCATION OFFICE
Hello NCS Early Ed Families!
Welcome to the Early Education program at Northwest Christian School. We thank God for His presence at NCS as we teach God's Word and principles every day on campus Thank you for joining us this year as we continue to provide a dedicated Christian education to your children. We look forward to partnering with you this year as we help your child grow developmentally, cognitively, academically, and spiritually
Extended Care (MC - 5th Grade)
Extended Care is available for all students aged 15 months through Kindergarten from 7:30 a m to the start of class. At the end of the school day Extended Care is available for students 15 months through 5th grade until 5:30 p m There is no student supervision prior to 7:30 a m If you will need extended care for your children, please contact the Early Education Office to make these arrangements. Parents must fill out new paperwork each school year if Extended Care is desired. Paperwork must be filed with the Early Ed Office prior to a student's first day of Extended Care All children Kindergarten through 5th grade must be either picked up from the classroom, from an ASAP class, taken to Extended Care or in an adult’s care Secondary students may pick a student that is in K - 5th grade Early Ed students may only be picked up by an adult listed on the blue card
You can find the Extended Care Agreement Form here, or you can click on the Extended Care tile in your Blackbaud account under the Resources Tab
Extended Care Emergency Forms (Mini Crusaders - Kindergarten)
The state of Arizona requires that a state required emergency contact blue card is filled out; the emergency form used for elementary is not sufficient for the Office of Child Care Licensure that oversees the Extended Care program These blue cards will only be accepted by the Early Education Office to ensure appropriate compliance to all details. No child may attend Extended Care until the required blue card is received
Dress Code
Please remember when buying school clothes that our children, from the walkers to the Pre-K program will enjoy getting messy and dirty as they learn We ask that all clothing not have logos contrary to our Christian testimony, that shoes have easy access with Velcro or slip on access unless the student can independently tie his/her own shoes Footwear is limited to tennis/athletic style shoes, without a stacked heel, in order that our children play safely throughout the day. For details, be sure to refer to the dress code in our handbook. If your child has enjoyed a summer hairstyle or color, please plan to have the style/color conform to the NCS school dress code by the first day of school. Kindergarten students will be wearing uniforms, please refer to the Elementary (K-5) handbook for more details.
Meet the Teacher (Mini Crusaders and Preschool): August 4th - August 7th
You will be invited to come on campus and meet your child's teacher in the classroom. This letter will arrive mid-summer and give you your child's teacher's name and a time for meeting. The classroom teacher will provide you with necessary information for the upcoming year and allow you and your child to become better acquainted with the classroom and some of those beginning of the year procedures. If you have not received your packet by July 18th, please reach out to Amanda in the EE Office
Meet the Teacher Kindergarten: Thursday, August 6th
Kindergarten – 5th grade students and their families are invited to the Don Sanderson gymnasium!
● If your last name begins with A-L, please join us at 9:00!
● If your last name begins with M-Z, please join us at 10:00!
(see next page for more information)
FROM THE EARLY EDUCATION OFFICE (CONTINUED)
We begin in the gymnasium where class rosters are posted, and you learn the name of your child’s regular classroom teacher for the first time. We also provide a great deal of additional information on our 20 After School Advantage Program (ASAP) classes, our new Reading Intervention Program, and other services as well. After you have received this information, please visit your child’s classroom, meet his/her teacher for the first time, and deliver those school supplies!
Important Dates in August
August 4th - 7th
Meet the Teacher (Mini Crusaders & Preschool)
Meet the Teacher (Kindergarten)
August 6th
August 10th
August 10th or 11th
Early Education Parent Orientation
(Mini Crusaders, Preschool, & Kindergarten)
Time TBD by teacher: Check letter to be received mid July Classrooms
9:00 am - 11:00 am (Open House) Gym
5:00 pm - 6:00 pm (Mini Crusaders/ Preschool)
6:00 pm - 6:40 pm (Kindergarten)
Cook Center see nextpage for map (Mini Crusaders & Preschool) Classrooms (Kindergarten)
First day of school (Kindergarten) 8:00 am Classrooms
First day of school (Mini Crusaders & Preschool) 8:30 am Classrooms
Partnering Together in Christ,
Bree Tarbutton
Director of Early Education and Kindergarten Principal
Btarbutton@ncsaz.org
602-978-5134 x642
MINI CRUSADERS CALENDAR OF EVENTS
AUGUST
OCTOBER
DECEMBER
JANUARY
PRESCHOOL CALENDAR OF EVENTS
AUGUST
6 EE Parent Orientation 5-6pm
10, 11 School begins
SEPTEMBER
4 No school: Teacher In-Service
7
23, 24 No school: Labor Day Picture Day
OCTOBER
1, 2 No school: Parent-Teacher Conferences 5-9 28, 29
No school: Fall Break Dad’s Day* - watch for details
NOVEMBER
9 No school: Veteran’s Day Observance
23, 24 Grandparent’s Day* - watch for details
25 11 am school wide dismissal
26, 27 30 No school: Thanksgiving Break
Possible day off (if Sutton goal met)
DECEMBER
18 11 am school wide dismissal
21- Jan 1 No school: Christmas Break
JANUARY
4, 5 School resumes
15 No school: Teacher In-Service
18 No school: Martin Luther King Day 22 Snow Night* - watch for details
FEBRUARY
12 No school: Teacher In-Service 15 25, 26 No school: President’s Day Rodeo Day* - watch for details
Mini Crusaders Half Day Option (8:30 am - 11:30 am) - Walkers & 2’s
Tuesday/Thursday $ 3,390 Not
Monday/Wednesday/Friday $ 4,560 Not
$339 - Ten months, August through May
$456 - Ten months, August through May Monday through Friday $ 7,090 Not
Preschool Half Day Option (8:30 am - 11:30 am) - 3’s, 4’s/Pre-K
Tuesday/Thursday
3,730 $3,618
- Ten months, August through May
- Ten months, August through May Monday/Wednesday/Friday
through Friday
5,020 $4,870
- Ten months, August through May
7,790 $7,556 $779 - Ten months, August through May
Preschool Full Day Option (8:30 am - 3:00 pm) - 3’s, 4’s/Pre-K Tuesday/Thursday
agreement submissions may be subject to a wait list. Student Activity Fees
P3-PK (non-refundable) $50
*Student Activity Fees will be charged to Tuition Management accounts
*Fees are due in full before the first day of school, 8/10/26
*Student Activity Fees are subject to late fees after 8/10/26
(Preschool Only)
BACK to SCHOOL NIGHT 2026 for EE, Kindergarten, First Grade, and Second Grade Parents
To the Parents of our Children in EE, Kindergarten, 1st Grade, and 2nd Grade!
Our teachers are excited to begin the new school year with your children! In preparation for the upcoming year, we ask that you plan to attend our Back to School Night for EE - 2nd Grade Students on August 6 This meeting is scheduled on Thursday evening before school begins for our teachers to orient our parents before the first day of school Your child’s teacher will provide all the information you need for a strong and confident start to the school year.
On Thursday, August 6th, there are two separate meetings for you to attend. We are asking that you attend both events as you prepare for Kindergarten, First, and Second Grade at NCS.
● Meet the Teacher is scheduled from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM for Elementary students* This is intended for both you and your child to attend. If your last name begins with A-L, please arrive between 9-10; M-Z, 10-11 This is a great opportunity for your child to meet their teacher, enjoy the classroom, and see friends who will be in their classroom
*EE Classroom Visits are scheduled by classroom teachers Please refer to your teacher packet arriving mid-July
● EE,* Kindergarten, First, and Second Grade Back to School Night is scheduled to occur in your child’s classroom (See Schedule Below). Parents of second-grade students will also have the opportunity to meet their child’s math teacher (who may be different from their child’s regular classroom teacher) in a separate 15-minute presentation.
*For EE families, please refer to the EE section of the What’s Next Packet for Back to School Night information.
During the evening session on Thursday, August 6th, your child’s teacher will cover important topics such as:
● How to help make the first week of school a special one for your child.
● Classroom management and developmental expectations for your child in class
● Lunch ordering and what is available for lunch for your child.
● Volunteering in the classroom
Also in Kindergarten - 2nd Grade
● Homework Expectations and Math Structures
● Digital Reading Supports
● Reading logs and grade-level expectations
● Red Word lists for reading.
● Curricular expectations for the year
Please see the next page for the EE-2nd Grade Back to School Night Schedule
Kindergarten - 2nd Grade Back to School
Session One 6:00 PM - 6:40 PM In your child’s classroom 6:00 PM - 6:40 PM In your child’s classroom 6:00 PM - 6:40 PM In your child’s classroom
Math
Session 6:45 PM - 7:00 PM In your child’s math classroom
Session Two 7:05 PM - 7:45 PM In your child’s classroom (Repeat of Session One Presentation)
** If you have multiple children, please go to your youngest child’s class first Or, if you have a 2nd grader (and a kinder or 1st grader), please use the following schedule:
1 Attend Session 1 (6:00) - In your child’s Kinder or 1st grade classroom,
2 Then attend the 2nd Grade Math Session (6:45) with your child’s math teacher in her classroom
3. Then, attend Session 2 (7:05) with your child’s 2nd-grade regular classroom teacher in her classroom.
Please join us at these events to best support you and your child in the upcoming school year. We look forward to talking with each of you. Parents of3rd - 5thgrade students willhave their Backto SchoolNight on the evening ofTuesday, August25th. Kindergarten
The Kindergarten Team The First Grade Team The Second Grade Team
Mrs Beiser
Ms. Currier
Mrs. Distler
Mrs Getz
Ms Ciero
Ms. Goodyear
Mrs. Skinner
Mrs Trueblood
Ms Hansen
Mrs. Muscari
Mrs. Schumacher
Mrs Young
Kindergarten Supply List
2026-2027
Please note: Supplies must be able to fit in the cubby, so please DO NOT buy anything in larger quantities or sizes than indicated. There will be some additional items needed that are not on this list - please see your classroom teacher for a list of those items. (tip: click on each item for direct link)
1 - labeled ziplock bag with one complete change of clothes
1 - "plug in" headphones (labeled with name) - no bluetooth headphones please
Backpack
Lunchbox
An activity fee will be charged to tuition accounts and is due by the 1st day of school. Please log in to Tuition Management to pay. Please bring all supplies on Meet the Teacher day. Please replenish all supplies as needed.
Boys
1 - paper towel
1 - hand sanitizer
1 - 100ct ziplock sandwich bags
Girls
1 - box of tissues
1 - Clorox/Lysol wipes
1 - box gallon ziplock bags
PROCARE
NCS Early Education uses an electronic record keeping system called Procare. Procare developed the Sign In-Out and Daily Activities program to meet the needs of preschools and after school programs It assists us with accurate record keeping while reducing the workload of the staff, allowing them to spend more time interacting with the students.
Our campus is using Wi-Fi internet connections to ensure that Procare is operational In the event of power outages or Wi-Fi disruptions, a paper copy of our Sign-In/Out form is kept for parents to use.
Procare App: You will receive an email from Procare with a unique 10-digit code and instructions on how to download and log into the app. Be on the lookout for this email, it should arrive within the next few weeks.
Procare Details: The Procare system has the ability to send sign in-out confirmations and daily activity alerts to parents through the Procare App. Along with saving paper, this is a much more efficient process in communicating effectively with parents. Coupled with additional communication tools through Procare, we are committed to achieving a more transparent relationship with our families.
Compliance: For Sign In-Out, each caregiver is given a unique 4-digit pin. Parents are encouraged to download the app where you can utilize the unique QR code Authorized pickups will only need their unique 4-digit pin These pin numbers will be kept confidential All caregivers, parents, and authorized pick-ups are required to provide a digital signature to remain in compliance with State regulations To ensure child safety, we will ask for identification for any pickup not recognized and verify that they are listed on the Blue Card before releasing the child to the caregiver. In the event of a missed sign-in or sign-out, the classroom teacher or administrator will sign the student in/out on the iPad.
Storage Use: The Sign In-Out Attendance and Daily Activities are available securely on the Procare website/App. They can be viewed online and printed immediately. This will assure that the records are available upon demand well beyond the minimum 3-year requirement. This continues to support our compliance with licensing and State regulations.
Child safety, efficiency, and communication are priorities in our Early Ed program Procare allows us the ability to meet those expectations while remaining in compliance with State Please reach out to the Director with any questions
Partnering Together in Christ, Bree
Tarbutton Director of
Btarbutton@ncsaz.org 602-978-5134
EXTENDED CARE INFORMATION
Extended Care
Extended Care is designed for children currently registered at NCS who need additional care outside of the regular school day This service is provided for students in early education, 15 months through fifth grade at NCS Extended Care teachers are background checked and provide a safe and less structured environment for our before and after school program
Extended Care is approved based on availability and requires specific forms to be filled out and submitted before attendance Prior approval must be obtained through the Early Education office for each attended day Extended Care is not designed to be a holding place for late pick-ups, but rather a class for parents who need additional care in the morning/afternoon Students who are not enrolled in After Care and are not picked up on time will be transferred to Extended Care and charged a late pickup fee of $25
If you are signing up for Extended Care on a regular basis, you will be charged $7 50 an hour for your scheduled hours Extended Care may be used on an occasional drop-in basis, depending on space availability, at $8 00 an hour All requests for occasional care must be pre-approved on a daily basis through the Early Education office Please make these requests by 2pm to ensure space availability
Early Education Extended Care Hours (Mini Crusaders, Preschool, Kindergarten)
Extended Care is available on school days from 7:30am to the start of class and/or dismissal through 5:30pm Students enrolled in Early Education must fill out a mandatory Emergency Card before attending their first day of extended care.
Early Education Mandatory Emergency Card
For Mini Crusaders, Preschool, and Kindergarten students, the State of Arizona requires that the State's Blue Emergency Card be filled out by a parent or legal guardian annually. These Blue Cards will only be accepted by the Early Education office to ensure compliance to all form details No child may attend until a Blue Card is received Elementary Students (1st - 5th grade) do not need a Blue Card
Elementary Extended Care (1st - 5th Grade)
Extended Care is available on school days from dismissal through 5:30pm..
Sign-In/Out Procedures
Each child must be signed in and out digitally on the teacher’s iPad for Extended Care A digital system (Procare) will automatically calculate your balance based on your sign-in/out times However, you must still physically sign in and out on the iPad with a first initial and full last name If your child is being dropped off by their teacher after school, the teacher will sign the child in. NCS will automatically bill accounts through 5:30pm each time and for each child when a physical sign-out entry is missing.
Signing-Up for Extended Care
If you are in need of Extended Care, please fill out the required Extended Care Agreement Form. You can find this form as a tile located in your BlackBaud account under the Resources Tab. You can also follow this link to fill out the Extended Care Agreement Form.
Mini Crusader Extended Care Billing
EXTENDED CARE BILLING
The Procare system begins charging for Extended Care for sign-ins before 8:25 am. If your child has not been enrolled in the Extended Care program, please do not sign your child in before 8:25 am The system will also automatically charge for late pick-ups or missed sign-out signatures Extended Care options include Before Care (7:30 am - 8:25 am); Lunch Flex (11:30 am - 12:30 pm); Nap Room (12:30 pm - 3:00 pm); After Care (3:00 pm - 5:30 pm)
Preschool Extended Care Billing
The Procare system begins charging for Extended Care for sign-ins before 8:25 am If your child has not been enrolled in the Extended Care program, please do not sign your child in before 8:25 am. The system will also automatically charge for late pick-ups or missed sign-out punches. Extended Care options include Before Care (7:30 am - 8:25 am); After Care (3:00 pm - 5:30 pm).
Kindergarten Extended Care Billing
The Procare system begins charging for Extended care for sign-ins before 8:00 am. The system will also automatically charge for late pick-ups or missed sign-out punches. Extended Care options include Kindergarten Before Care (7:30 am - 7:55 am); Preschool - Kindergarten After Care (3:00 pm - 5:30 pm).
Elementary Extended Care Billing
Extended Care options include 1st - 5th Grade After Care (3:00 pm - 5:30 pm). The system will also automatically charge for late pick-ups or missed sign-out punches.
Extended Care Billing vs. Tuition Billing
Extended Care will be billed through Procare. Any questions you have can be directed to the Early Education office.
Tuition will be billed through BlackBaud. Any questions you have regarding tuition can be directed to the Business office.
Billing Notes for Extended Care
● A delinquent account balance may result in a temporary suspension of Extended Care services. Access may be reinstated once the account is brought current.
● Past due accounts that are repetitively delinquent may result in termination in the program.
● Pick up time for all children may not exceed 5:30pm. Late fees are $1.00 for every minute after 5:30pm. Chronic lateness may result in your child(ren) being dropped from the program.
● Students that are not picked up on time will be charged a $25 late-pick up fee.
If you have further questions about Extended Care please contact the Early Education office We will provide the application, blue card (if applicable), and answer any questions you may have about Extended Care.
Contacts
Early Education Office (Mini Crusader, Preschool, Kindergarten)
Amanda LeDuc
aleduc@ncsaz org, 602-978-5134 x600
Elementary (1st-5th Grade) Extended Care
ElementaryExtendedCare@ncsaz org
480-594-2223 (call/text - we love text messages!)
K - 5TH GRADE PARKING LOT PROCEDURES
Arrival Procedures for Kindergarten
The Early Education program does not provide formal supervision until 7:30 AM (Extended Care). Classroom doors open at 7:55 AM. To prioritize student safety, a kindergarten student must be in the care of a parent/adult until the teacher has received the student We kindly ask that you refrain from using the Turf Field or Purple Playground as those areas are reserved for 1st-5th Extended Care students. The front lawn in front of the EE building is available for use while you wait for classrooms to open
Kindergarten Extended Care is available for students needing care before 7:55 AM Information regarding Extended Care can be found here
Morning drop off via drive thru lane is available for students beginning in 1stgrade.
Arrival Procedures for 1st-5th Grade
The elementary school program does not provide formal supervision until 7:30 AM. Students dropped off before 7:30 AM are not provided supervision or support The formal drop-off time runs from 7:30 AM to 7:55 AM when students go to class for the school day. The Elementary Library will be open at 7:30 AM and students may sit in the Elementary Library to study until 7:55 AM.
Students may be dropped off in the drive-thru lane, located near the yellow slide, starting at 7:30 AM* Parents are asked to use the formal drive-through lane as the only area for drop off All other parking lot areas are designated for driving or parking to walk children into the school. Elementary parents are asked to use the south parking lot associated with the school for drop off and pick up Parents may also escort students to the playground or classroom from the parking lot Elementary students and siblings should not walk through the parking lot alone nor be found in the parking lot unattended or left in cars unattended.
*Morning drop off via the drive-thru lane is available for 1st- 5th grade students Kindergarten students will need an adult to drop them off with the teacher at the classroom at 7:55am or be enrolled in Extended Care prior to that.
Dismissal Procedures for Kindergarten - 5th Grade
At the end of the day, K-5 teachers work to know where children are going and who is picking them up The teacher will keep an informal record of where the student is heading at the end of each school day. This applies to all children Kindergarten through fifth grade. Students will only be released to custodial parents/guardians/authorized individuals/secondary siblings If a teacher gets permission via email, text or phone call from a parent/guardian for release of his or her child to someone other than the custodial parent/guardian/authorized individual, the teacher will verify identity through a driver’s license.
Students may be picked up directly from their classroom. Students will be held in class for parents, secondary siblings, or identified adults to come and pick up the children unless they are using the Pick Up Zone with the drive-through area Please see pp 14-15 in the Elementary Parent and Student Handbook for more explicit drop-off and pick-up directions.
Parking Lot Guidelines
To help maintain a safe campus environment and ensure the efficient flow of traffic, we respectfully request that all families refrain from parking along any curbs in the main parking lots Parking along curbs can create challenges for traffic flow and make it more difficult for vehicles to safely maneuver through parking lot spaces.
We appreciate your willingness to work within these systems for drop off and pick up in the elementary parking lot and hope that this will provide safety and convenience for your family this year. Please feel free to drop by the office or give us a call if you have any questions.
Elementary Principal
EE Director/Kindergarten Principal Northwest Christian School Northwest Christian School
Eric Dowdle
Bree Tarbutton
8:30 AM9:00AM
2027 MAY 4TH
FOOTBALL FIELD
KINDER-SENIOR WALK KINDER-SENIOR WALK KINDER-SENIOR WALK
JOIN
1,000 BOOKS By Kindergarten
2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR
PLEASE SCAN THE QR CODE BELOW TO LOG YOUR BOOKS!
STUDENTS WHO HAVE READ 1,000 BOOKS BEFORE MOVING INTO KINDERGARTEN WILL RECEIVE A SPECIAL GIFT.
Happy Reading!
(THIS LOG WILL TRACK YOUR STUDENTS’ BOOKS THROUGHOUT THEIR TIME IN OUR EARLY EDUCATION PROGRAM)
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS NCS
ELEMENTARY 1ST-5TH GRADE NCS
FROM THE DESK OF ELEMENTARY PRINCIPAL, ERIC DOWDLE
Pursuing His Purpose
Since 1980, Northwest Christian School has been a significant light in this valley and a model for Christian schools in Arizona and the surrounding states I know this because I’ve been one of those Christian school administrators who have watched and learned from NCS over the years Now that I have completed my third year as Principal of the elementary program, my sense of gratitude has only increased To serve with Mr Brown, Mrs Maszton, our elementary administrative team, and our teachers and staff is a great joy and privilege We count it pure joy to serve with you, our parents and covenantal partners May our God fulfill the roles He has given each of us to encourage our children as they discover the gifts and talents He has given them, with a Biblical worldview!
In that process, our students will experience struggle, challenge, and success during the school year Let’s remind them that these are important and positive opportunities for our God to shape them so they can proceed thereafter with confidence and courage according to His will and the Word of God “For it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill His good purposes” (Phil 2:13) Thankfully, we can trust Him to accomplish these purposes in us
Although we still have some time before school begins on August 10th, we are excited to see you and launch the beginning of our 2026-2027 school year. Mrs. Bree Tarbutton (Director of Early Education and Kindergarten Principal), Ms.Tammy Neitch (her title is rightly changing to Assistant Principal, from Dir. of Curric. & Instruction), Mrs. Rebekah Emery (Administrative Assistant), Mrs. Jessie Brown (Front Desk Assistant), and I are excited for the opportunity to greet you at our annual MeettheTeacher event on August 6th!
Meet the Teacher Event – Thursday, August 6, 2026 Kindergarten–5th–grade students and their families are invited to the Don Sanderson Gymnasium!
● If your last name begins with A-L, please join us at 9:00!
● If your last name begins with M-Z, please join us at 10:00!
We begin in the gymnasium where class rosters are posted, and you learn the name of your child’s regular classroom teacher for the first time We also provide a great deal of additional information on the After School Advantage Program (ASAP) classes, our new Reading Intervention Program, and other services as well After you have received this information, please visit your child’s classroom, meet his/her teacher for the first time, and deliver those school supplies! We want to thank Mrs Emery and Mrs Brown for facilitating this extensive event for our elementary students and families!
We are Excited to Announce!
Mrs. Anna Fehringer - Third Grade: Mrs. Fehringer is replacing Mrs. Nagel, who is moving to serve at a fellow Christian school in the valley. Mrs. Fehringer has lived in British Columbia her entire life. She graduated in 2022 from Trinity Western Christian University, and she has served as a teacher at White Rock Christian Academy for the past four years. She and her husband are in the process of moving to Phoenix this summer. They plan to attend Open Door Fellowship church. She is called to serve in our Christian School. Her spiritual gifts are mercy/compassion and her ability as a teacher of the Word, her humility, and interpersonal/emotional quotient are significant! She will soon hold an Az. Teaching Certificate.
Mrs. Megan Rivera - Fourth Grade: Mrs Rivera is replacing Mrs Silva, who is moving to teach 8th-grade math at NCS Mrs Rivera comes to us from the Army Base, Camp Walker, in Daegu, Korea While at Camp Walker, she led the development of a successful new co-op for homeschool families Also on the base, she served as the co-leader of the children’s ministry in their church, where they experienced significant church growth due to the children’s ministry Mrs Rivera earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education and Special Education at GCU, and she will soon hold an Az Teaching certificate She and her family have made Pure Heart their church home Her relational abilities, resourcefulness, spiritual maturity, and enthusiasm will be greatly appreciated by her students, their parents, and her fellow NCS teachers She is clearly called to teach at NCS!
Mr. Steve Udowitz - 5th Grade: In the past 15 years, Mr Udowitz has not only successfully served in various teaching roles from elementary to high school, but also as an administrator in the Peoria school district and at a fellow Christian School. He and his family attend Mission Valley Church, where he and his wife currently serve in the children and youth ministries on Wednesday nights. In addition to Mr. Udowitz’s extensive experience, he is known for having a “servant's heart,” and he is well known for his easy-going, pleasant demeanor. In his classroom, he will focus on developing a classroom community that is structured and fun, and he looks forward to teaching with a Biblical worldview again. He holds an Az. Teaching certificate, he loves the Lord, and is excited to serve at NCS, where his four children attend.
When you see them, please help me welcome them to our wonderful NCS community! I am convinced they are each called by God to serve in their new roles! I am excited to watch God fulfill Psalm 145 in their lives. “One generation commendsyour works to another; they tellofyour mighty acts. They speakoftheglorious splendor ofyour majesty, andImeditate onyour wonderfulworks. They celebrateyour abundantgoodness andjoyfully sing ofyour righteousness.”(Psalm 145:4-6)
Our entire staff, along with Mrs. Emery, Mrs. Brown, Ms. Neitch, and I, look forward to seeing you on August 6th, at our “Meet the Teacher” event!
May the Lord bless you and your family this summer!
Elementary Principal - Northwest Christian School
Northwest Christian School
Calendar 2026-2027
AUGUST
5 MS & HS Registration
6 Elementary (K-5th) “Meet the Teacher” Day
Kindergarten - 2nd Grade “Back to School Night” Early Ed Orientation
10 School Begins- All Ground Including Early Ed
12-14 HS Camp 17 Online school begins
25 Elementary “Back to School Night” K-5 Picture Day
27 MS & HS “Back to School” Night
6-12 Picture Day
SEPTEMBER
4 No School - Teacher In-Service 7 Labor Day – No School 23-24 Preschool Picture Day OCTOBER
1 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences 11:00 a m Dismissal – K-12 No School Preschool, Mini Crusaders
2 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences No School for Elementary, Mini Cru, Preschool MS and HS – 11:00 a m Dismissal
5-9 Fall Break – No School
NOVEMBER
9 Veterans Day Observance- No School 23-24 Grandparents Days 25 Thanksgiving Vacation Begins –11:00 a.m. Dismissal
26-27 Thanksgiving Vacation DECEMBER
15 High School Final Exams – Full Day 16-17 High School Final Exams 18 Christmas Break Begins –11:00 a m Dismissal (All Grades)
JANUARY
School Resumes
Online School Resumes
No school - Teacher In-Service
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – No School
FEBRUARY 9 Open House & Curriculum Showcase 12 No School - Teacher In-Service All School Re-enrollment & Deposit Due 15 Presidents’ Day – No School
MARCH 11 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences 11:00 a.m. Dismissal – K-12 No School Preschool and Mini Crusaders 12 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher ConferencesNo School for Elementary, Mini Cru, Preschool MS and HS – 11:00 a.m. Dismissal 15-19 Spring Break 22 School Resumes 26 Good Friday- No School 29 Easter Monday - No School
30 No School - Teacher In-Service
17-21 Senior Final Exams 25 High School Final Exams – Full Day 27 11:00 a.m. Dismissal (Early Ed & HS) 28 Last Day of School – 11:00 a.m. Dismissal (All Grades) 8th Grade Promotion Senior Graduation – 7:00 p m
Northwest Christian School
Traditional Ground K-12 Tuition & Fees
2026-2027
Grade/Age Levels
Extended Care (K-8)
-
$7.50/hr. Pre-Scheduled Available 7:30am - 8:00am and 3:00pm - 5:30pm
$8.00/hr. Drop in Fees - Non-Refundable
Fee, due upon acceptance
Re-Enrollment Fee, by 2/13/26
- includes $150 course credit, $400 if not completed by 8/1/26
Re-Enrollment Fee, after 2/13/26
- includes $150 course credit, $450 if not completed by 8/1/26
*Students in all grade levels with late re-enrollment agreement submissions may be subject to a wait list
$300
Program Change Fee $50
Student Activity Fees
K-5 (non-refundable) $50 *Student Activity Fees will be charged to Tuition Management accounts
6-8 (non-refundable) $120 *Fees are due in full before the first day of school, 8/10/26
9-12 (non-refundable) $225
*Student Activity Fees are subject to late fees after 8/10/26
Multi-Student Discounts (Kindergarten - 12)
1st Child Regular price
2nd Child 10% to both students
3rd Child 18% to all three students
4th Child + A discounted tuition rate of $4,000 for Kindergarten and $7,000 for grades 1-12 will be given to the 4th and any additional K-12 students in the family Online/Flex students will receive an 18% discount on their tuition Early Education, Preschool, Homeschool, or Frameworks are not included in the multi-student discount.
Enrollment Refund Policy
Enrollment and re-enrollment fees are non-refundable for the 26-27 school year.
Tuition Payment Policy
• Tuition for Kindergarten through 11th Grade on the ground students will be divided into eleven monthly payments. The first payment is due Aug 1 and the last payment is due on or before June 1. Tuition for Seniors will be divided into 10 monthly payments. The final payment is due on or before May 1.
• Any payment received after the seventh of the month will be considered late and the account will be assessed a $50 late charge.
• If an account becomes more than 60 days past due, the student may not be allowed to attend class until the account is brought current.
• There is a $25 charge on all checks returned by the bank.
• Tuition for graduating seniors must be paid in full by May 15th in order for the student to participate in year end trips and graduation ceremonies. Additionally, the remaining family account must be paid through May
• If annual family tuition is paid in full on or before the first day of school (8/10/26), the family will receive a three percent discount.
• Parents must inform the finance office upon acceptance of an ESA contract in any quarter
01/09/2026
BACK to SCHOOL NIGHT 2026 for EE, Kindergarten, First Grade, and Second Grade Parents
To the Parents of our Children in EE, Kindergarten, 1st Grade, and 2nd Grade!
Our teachers are excited to begin the new school year with your children! In preparation for the upcoming year, we ask that you plan to attend our Back to School Night for EE - 2nd Grade Students on August 6 This meeting is scheduled on Thursday evening before school begins for our teachers to orient our parents before the first day of school Your child’s teacher will provide all the information you need for a strong and confident start to the school year.
On Thursday, August 6th, there are two separate meetings for you to attend. We are asking that you attend both events as you prepare for Kindergarten, First, and Second Grade at NCS.
● Meet the Teacher is scheduled from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM for Elementary students* This is intended for both you and your child to attend. If your last name begins with A-L, please arrive between 9-10; M-Z, 10-11 This is a great opportunity for your child to meet their teacher, enjoy the classroom, and see friends who will be in their classroom
*EE Classroom Visits are scheduled by classroom teachers Please refer to your teacher packet arriving mid-July
● EE,* Kindergarten, First, and Second Grade Back to School Night is scheduled to occur in your child’s classroom (See Schedule Below). Parents of second-grade students will also have the opportunity to meet their child’s math teacher (who may be different from their child’s regular classroom teacher) in a separate 15-minute presentation.
*For EE families, please refer to the EE section of the What’s Next Packet for Back to School Night information.
During the evening session on Thursday, August 6th, your child’s teacher will cover important topics such as:
● How to help make the first week of school a special one for your child.
● Classroom management and developmental expectations for your child in class
● Lunch ordering and what is available for lunch for your child.
● Volunteering in the classroom
Also in Kindergarten - 2nd Grade
● Homework Expectations and Math Structures
● Digital Reading Supports
● Reading logs and grade-level expectations
● Red Word lists for reading.
● Curricular expectations for the year
Please see the next page for the EE-2nd Grade Back to School Night Schedule
Kindergarten - 2nd Grade Back to School
Session One 6:00 PM - 6:40 PM In your child’s classroom 6:00 PM - 6:40 PM In your child’s classroom 6:00 PM - 6:40 PM In your child’s classroom
Math
Session 6:45 PM - 7:00 PM In your child’s math classroom
Session Two 7:05 PM - 7:45 PM In your child’s classroom (Repeat of Session One Presentation)
** If you have multiple children, please go to your youngest child’s class first Or, if you have a 2nd grader (and a kinder or 1st grader), please use the following schedule:
1 Attend Session 1 (6:00) - In your child’s Kinder or 1st grade classroom,
2 Then attend the 2nd Grade Math Session (6:45) with your child’s math teacher in her classroom
3. Then, attend Session 2 (7:05) with your child’s 2nd-grade regular classroom teacher in her classroom.
Please join us at these events to best support you and your child in the upcoming school year. We look forward to talking with each of you. Parents of3rd - 5thgrade students willhave their Backto SchoolNight on the evening ofTuesday, August25th. Kindergarten
The Kindergarten Team The First Grade Team The Second Grade Team
Mrs Beiser
Ms. Currier
Mrs. Distler
Mrs Getz
Ms Ciero
Ms. Goodyear
Mrs. Skinner
Mrs Trueblood
Ms Hansen
Mrs. Muscari
Mrs. Schumacher
Mrs Young
BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT 2026 for 3rd - 5th Grade Parents
Third, Fourth, and Fifth Grade Families!
We are made on purpose, for a purpose! One of the goals of the elementary program is to provide a rigorous program of education to help the students at NCS grow academically and spiritually so they can understand and enjoy God’s purposes for them. During Back to School Night, the teachers provide information on classroom academic expectations, classroom management, and events to look forward to throughout the year.
Please join us on Tuesday, August 25th, at Back to School Night. During this time, your child’s teacher will cover important topics such as:
● Projects and presentations expected during the year
● Classroom management and general expectations for your child in class.
● Lunch ordering and what is available for lunch for your child.
● How you can support the educational plans on campus each day
● Homework expectations and Math Fact Mastery.
● Accelerated Reader and Math Online opportunities
● Curricular expectations for the year.
The Schedule for 3rd-5th Grade Back to School Night: 5:30 PM
August 25th
Elementary Back to School Night for Parents of 3rd through 5th grade Students
Kinder, First, and Second Grade Parents met the evening of Meet the Teacher on August 6th
6:00 - 6:40 PM
6:45-7:00
7:05-7:45 PM
3rd Grade Floating Science Lab Trip Information Mtg Band Room (Gym Building)
Special Teachers Available In Classrooms
PE and Tech: In Tech Lab (431), Art (432), Spanish (433), and Music (442)
Session One: Back to School Night in the Classrooms: (Grades 3rd – 5th)
Session Two: Meet Your Child’s Math Teacher (In your child’s math classroom)
Session Three: Back to School Night in the Classroom (Grades 3rd – 5th)
*Repeat from 6:00 PM time
As always, we look forward to getting to know you better through these events! Thank you for choosing NCS for your child’s education!
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SUPPLY LISTS
small Fiskar
with sharp point 1 *box of Ziploc gallon size bags -
4 pack highlighters - assorted colors
*lg hand sanitizer pump bottle -
1 plastic school box (approx 5x8x2) 1 *box of Ziploc sandwich bags -
set of earbuds (no headphones) 8 tab set - two pocket plastic dividers
pack of 4 thin Expo markers (black) 1 5 inch 3 ring durable clear view binder (no zipper)
#2 Ticonderoga brand pencils (sharpened)
green folder with 2 pockets and 3 brass fasteners
2 yellow highlighters (not markers) 1 bottle of 8 oz hand sanitizer1 large box of tissues (250 count)
1 NIV Bible 1 pair of scissors (student size)
5 1-subject notebooks 8 glue sticks
1 1 5 inch 3 ring durable clear view binder (no zipper)
box colored pencils
small box thin washable markers
#2 pencils or mechanical ( 7mm lead)
plastic dividers with pockets
box Crayola Crayons
pack sheet protectors
roll of paper towels
large box of tissues
container of Clorox wipes8 pack Expo white board markers (black)
set of earbuds or headphones (computer)
thin highlighters (different colors)
box Ziploc sandwich size baggies
Spanish – green folder with 2 pockets and 3 brass fasteners
pkg 3X3 Post-It
ELEMENTARY DRESS REQUIREMENTS
This information is found on pp. 21-23 of the Elementary Parent- Student Handbook
We believe God’s Word has a practical application to the dress and grooming of students. It is appropriate and necessary to require students to dress modestly and appropriately. Extreme fads and styles in clothing and jewelry that are contrary to our Christian testimony are inappropriate and distract others in the learning environment. The NCS dress code is most effective when parents support this philosophy. The dress code has been established by considering various factors such as comfort, safety, modesty, appropriateness, and ease of enforcement
Enforcing the dress code is not the sole responsibility of the school. We ask our parents to partner with us to monitor their child’s daily attire to ensure compliance with the NCS dress code We greatly appreciate your support.
K-5th grade
Shirts are limited to polo shirts (short or long sleeves). Students are to wear uniform or “Docker” style shorts, slacks, skirts, skorts, capris, or jumpers made from cotton twill or corduroy in black, solid navy, or tan (khaki) colors. Please be aware that not all the clothing in the uniform section in stores meets our dress code requirements.
● Polo shirts are to be one solid color of your choice. If it has a logo, it must be no larger than a credit card. The logo should not be contrary to our Christian testimony. Shirts must have a button placket (no snaps, zippers, laces, etc ) and a collar with long or short sleeves Shirts must be long enough to fully cover the stomach when arms are raised. Shirts may be visibly layered under a standard polo shirt.
● Pants, shorts, or capris must be of a dress pant twill/cotton or corduroy material Pants may not be made solely of spandex, Lycra, nylon, rayon, or other materials that tend to cling to the body. Leggings may not be worn as primary pants; however, they may be worn under skirts. Any type of jeans is not allowed during the normal school day Pants must be of a navy blue, black, or khaki tan color only For girls, capri pants are acceptable Cargo pants and overalls are not acceptable Cargo shorts are acceptable
● Shorts are to be longer than the fingertips and no longer than the bend of the knee. Jumpers, skirts, or skorts are to be longer than the finger
● Skirts may be straight or pleated. Girls are encouraged to wear shorts under jumpers and skirts for modesty. Only polo shirt-type dresses following the solid color style, as in the polo shirt description, are allowed Skirts are to be made of cotton/twill, polyester, or corduroy
● Footwear is limited to tennis/athletic style shoes as students do not dress out for PE until they are in the secondary program There are to be no inset wheels in any shoes worn on campus Shoes with laces must be laced tightly and tied securely. Slip-on shoes, like Vans and Toms, must stay fastened on the child’s feet when walking It is preferred that students wear socks with their shoes
General
● Fit and Style: All clothing must be neat, clean, modest, and fit appropriately. Oversized or too-tight garments are not allowed
● Outerwear: Sweaters, sweatshirts, and windbreakers must be one solid color or NCS apparel and worn over an approved uniform shirt Coats and jackets are not restricted to one solid color If there is a design, logo, picture, or word, it must be appropriate for a Christian school
● Undergarments: All children must wear appropriate undergarments as a hygiene necessity.
● Hats/Caps: Hats/caps may be worn outside for protection from the sun. Hats/caps/hoods may not be worn in the classroom or any other school building. Hats are not restricted to one solid color. If there is a design, logo, picture, or word, it must be appropriate for a Christian school
● Makeup: We ask that our children not wear “makeup” or face glitter in the elementary program. When our elementary students are worried about checking their makeup and reapplying it during the day, it becomes a distraction to learning.
● Jewelry: Jewelry should be kept to a minimum for boys and girls Necklaces should be simple Earrings for our girls should not “hang” but be solid posts. Boys are not to wear earrings to school.
● Smart watches are not allowed at school, just as cell phones are not allowed at school for elementary students
● Hair: Hair for both girls and boys is to be kept neat, clean, and a natural color. Extreme styles are to be avoided Hair for boys must be shorter than their collars and cut so that their eyebrows and at least part of their ears are visible. Hair for girls must allow the student to see without hair covering the eyes.
● Free Dress: During free dress days, students must comply with the basic dress code, including the length of shorts and skirts. Jeans are allowed to be worn on “free-dress days.” No torn jeans may be worn during “free-dress days.” Appropriate and modest attire is expected at all times.
● The school administration reserves the right to make modifications to the dress code for special occasions such as jog-a-thon, field trips, spirit days, or other fun/reward situations.
● Any attire not described in this policy is not allowed.
Friday NCS School Shirt Days
● On Fridays, students may wear any NCS shirt with the required NCS apparel for shorts, skirts, and pants. The NCS shirt may be the school theme shirt, an ASAP shirt, a club shirt, or any NCS logo wear.
● Jeans/denim may be worn only on Fridays specified “free-dress” days
● Jeans are defined as denim/blue or black The apparel is to reflect the school dress code Attire must fit modestly, not too tight and not too loose, and without rips or holes The length of skirts and shorts must meet Dress Code requirements.
If you ever have questions about the dress code, please feel free to ask Thank you for your support We are grateful.
ELEMENTARY UNIFORM EXCHANGE
The annual elementary uniform exchange will take place in the Don Sanderson Gymnasium during Meet the Teacher Day, August 6, 2026. This free event, for current elementary families, offers a great alternative to purchasing new uniforms
DONATING ITEMS
Donated items may be brought to the front office during summer office hours.
Please bring in only the following items that are in good condition, without holes, stains, rips, or pilling:
● Black, navy blue, or khaki shorts, skirts, pants, or dresses
● Solid colored polos
● NCS t-shirts
RECEIVING ITEMS
During Elementary Uniform Exchange, parents will be invited to stop by the uniform exchange table at Meet the Teacher Day during their allotted time in the Don Sanderson Gymnasium. They can pick out clothes for their students for the upcoming school year If you take clothes, we ask that you consider donating clothes that meet the above criteria. Thank you!
K - 5TH GRADE PARKING LOT PROCEDURES
Arrival Procedures for Kindergarten
The Early Education program does not provide formal supervision until 7:30 AM (Extended Care). Classroom doors open at 7:55 AM. To prioritize student safety, a kindergarten student must be in the care of a parent/adult until the teacher has received the student We kindly ask that you refrain from using the Turf Field or Purple Playground as those areas are reserved for 1st-5th Extended Care students. The front lawn in front of the EE building is available for use while you wait for classrooms to open
Kindergarten Extended Care is available for students needing care before 7:55 AM Information regarding Extended Care can be found here
Morning drop off via drive thru lane is available for students beginning in 1stgrade.
Arrival Procedures for 1st-5th Grade
The elementary school program does not provide formal supervision until 7:30 AM. Students dropped off before 7:30 AM are not provided supervision or support The formal drop-off time runs from 7:30 AM to 7:55 AM when students go to class for the school day. The Elementary Library will be open at 7:30 AM and students may sit in the Elementary Library to study until 7:55 AM.
Students may be dropped off in the drive-thru lane, located near the yellow slide, starting at 7:30 AM* Parents are asked to use the formal drive-through lane as the only area for drop off All other parking lot areas are designated for driving or parking to walk children into the school. Elementary parents are asked to use the south parking lot associated with the school for drop off and pick up Parents may also escort students to the playground or classroom from the parking lot Elementary students and siblings should not walk through the parking lot alone nor be found in the parking lot unattended or left in cars unattended.
*Morning drop off via the drive-thru lane is available for 1st- 5th grade students Kindergarten students will need an adult to drop them off with the teacher at the classroom at 7:55am or be enrolled in Extended Care prior to that.
Dismissal Procedures for Kindergarten - 5th Grade
At the end of the day, K-5 teachers work to know where children are going and who is picking them up The teacher will keep an informal record of where the student is heading at the end of each school day. This applies to all children Kindergarten through fifth grade. Students will only be released to custodial parents/guardians/authorized individuals/secondary siblings If a teacher gets permission via email, text or phone call from a parent/guardian for release of his or her child to someone other than the custodial parent/guardian/authorized individual, the teacher will verify identity through a driver’s license.
Students may be picked up directly from their classroom. Students will be held in class for parents, secondary siblings, or identified adults to come and pick up the children unless they are using the Pick Up Zone with the drive-through area Please see pp 14-15 in the Elementary Parent and Student Handbook for more explicit drop-off and pick-up directions.
Parking Lot Guidelines
To help maintain a safe campus environment and ensure the efficient flow of traffic, we respectfully request that all families refrain from parking along any curbs in the main parking lots Parking along curbs can create challenges for traffic flow and make it more difficult for vehicles to safely maneuver through parking lot spaces.
We appreciate your willingness to work within these systems for drop off and pick up in the elementary parking lot and hope that this will provide safety and convenience for your family this year. Please feel free to drop by the office or give us a call if you have any questions.
Elementary Principal
EE Director/Kindergarten Principal Northwest Christian School Northwest Christian School
Eric Dowdle
Bree Tarbutton
SUMMER EXPERIENCES FOR ACADEMIC PRACTICE
Northwest Christian School: Elementary Program
It is our goal that all students find academic success at NCS. For elementary students we have provided the necessary tools for academic readiness and success for the next school year online Research has shown that academic engagement over the summer break can provide the skills needed for greater success the next school year We encourage you to have fun with your children this summer On those days when your children have some free time, please consider taking advantage of these academic opportunities to keep their skills sharp for the next school year.
Summer Success Boosters
This Canvas “course” hosts resources for each elementary school grade level that families can use to support their students - Summer Success Boosters These activities were created by our teachers for each incoming grade from kindergarten through fifth grade. Each grade level tab has resources to help sustain engagement over the summer and prepare for the upcoming school year. These activities provide families with the tools needed to assist with the grade that their child will be entering in the fall. Academic content varies by grade level. There are no assignments or things to submit - just tools for summer growth.
Lalilo (Former Kindergarten and 1st Graders), and IXL (Former 2nd-4th Graders)
NCS elementary students used one of the above enrichment programs this past year You can continue to enjoy the opportunity for your children to practice their math concepts and facts through June and July! The login information that your child used during the school year will remain usable through Friday, July 31.
Summer Reading in the NCS Library!
Don’t let your 2nd–5th grader lose momentum over the summer! Stay connected and keep your student learning with our Summer Reading Challenge: June 2nd–June 25th. It’s a fun way to stay engaged, build strong reading habits, and keep those skills sharp all summer long!
● Entering 1st & 2nd Grade info HERE
● 1st Grade Reading Log HERE
● 2nd Grade Reading Log HERE
● Entering 3-5th Grade info HERE
For reading at-home or on the road, consider Tumblebooks, which is a curated database of children's e-books Many books include read along options so children can hear the story while they practice reading. Visit Tumblebooks at https://www tumblebooklibrary com/home aspx and enter the username nwcs and password books.
Reading Intervention for the Struggling Student at NCS
In fall 2025, Northwest Christian School launched a new one-on-one reading intervention system to support struggling readers in grades Kindergarten through 5th NCS replaced the Barton reading program with the Sonday System program The Sonday System utilizes an initial assessment to determine the student’s specific needs before instruction, allowing us to create an individualized plan to support the student in growing in his/her deciphering of text and reading comprehension as well. Periodic assessment also allow the parents, teachers, and administration to monitor progress over the course of the school year. The Sonday System also utilizes an Orton-Gillingham multi-sensory approach to instruction, which aligns with our reading instruction in the kindergarten through 2nd grade classrooms where we learn how to read
The Sonday System enables NCS Reading Intervention teachers to instruct one-on-one with the student. In K-2 grades, we prioritize the need to read and spell single-syllable words and build toward multisyllabic words using “Sonday System 1,” by addressing the following skills:
● Review of pre-reading skills
● Phonics using vowels, vowel pairs, and diphthongs
● Consonant blends and digraphs
● Common patterns in the English language
● Phonemic segmentation for spelling
● Phoneme blending for reading
● English language rules
● Compound and non-phonetic words
● Reading and writing fluency
● Handwriting
In 3rd-5th grades, the Reading Intervention teacher utilizes the Sonday System 2 program to focus on the following skills:
● Review of concepts in Imagine Sonday System 1
● Syllable types and division
● Inflectional and derivational morphology
● Roots
● Non-phonetic words
●
Reading Intervention for the Struggling Student at NCS
How Can Students Enroll in the Reading Intervention Program?
The Reading Intervention Program is reserved for students who are demonstrating a delay or struggle in their reading development or the skills listed above. These are students who may also struggle to accurately decode words when reading, despite being taught phonics They also may be slow and inaccurate readers and often miss the oral reading fluency benchmarks Spelling may also be a struggle, especially when writing sentences, stories, and compositions.
● Parents or teachers may initiate the referral process, but the teacher and administrator (either our Principal or Assistant Principal) must approve the student’s participation in the program. Data derived from the school’s standardized test result, DIBELS, and the students' grades will be used in the approval process.
● Following the parent’s decision to approve the child’s placement in the Intervention program, the Reading Intervention Coordinator (Sarah Pilkington), will schedule a time to assess the student’s current strengths and needs as a reader, and work with the child’s teacher to schedule the student’s sessions with one of our Reading Intervention Teachers We will prioritize Math, English-Language Arts, and Bible instruction, so the student’s sessions may not conflict with this instruction.
Logistics and Cost:
● Students in K-5th grades are recommended to receive Reading Intervention support twice per week at 40 minutes per session.
● Upon receiving the signed “Parent Agreement Form,” the parent will be charged each month in addition to their tuition obligation ESA funds may be used to cover the cost of the program
● If the Reading Intervention teacher is absent from school and unable to meet with the student, the teacher will work to make up for that missed session at a different time
● If the child is absent from school, the Reading Intervention Teacher is not obligated to make up that missed session. Refunds will not be made due to student absences.
● The monthly fee will be reduced for Fall break, Christmas break, and Spring break
● Parents may choose one of two plans: Plan A = Two Sessions per Week
Plan B = Three Sessions per Week - 3rd - 5th Grade
* Fee amounts for the two different plans are being confirmed as of this writing.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact your child’s teacher (after the school year begins), Ms Neitch (Ms Neitch - Assistant Principal), Mr Dowdle (1st - 5th Principal) or Bree Tarbutton (Kindergarten Principal). Please look for our table at the “Meet the Teacher” on August 6th for more information!
NATIONAL ELEMENTARY HONOR SOCIETY
NCS is proud of our Northwest Christian Elementary School Chapter of the National Elementary Honor Society. This is an exciting program at NCS that offers students opportunities to pursue academic excellence and recognition of the development of strong Christian character through service.
The purpose of NEHS, a national organization dedicated to academic achievement and character development, is to recognize students for their outstanding academic achievement and demonstration of personal responsibility, to provide meaningful service to the school and community, and to develop essential leadership skills within the students of Northwest Christian Elementary School.
Eligibility
● Students must be enrolled in grades 4 or 5.
● Students must have been enrolled for at least one semester at NCS.
● Students must have a minimum of 90% grade in all subjects, including specials, based on a minimum of two semesters’ performance prior to candidacy.
● Students must have earned an ‘E’ in both conduct and work habits in all classes, based on a minimum of two semesters’ performance prior to candidacy.
● Students must have a track record of personal responsibility on campus.
Process
Upon meeting the requirements of grade level, enrollment, and GPA standards, candidates will be notified and asked to complete a Candidate Form for further consideration for membership The Faculty Council, anonymous faculty appointed by the principal, shall then review the Candidate Forms, Faculty Evaluation Forms, and other relevant information to determine membership. Membership is not to exceed twenty-five students for each school year.
If a student meets the eligibility requirements listed above, he/she will receive a Candidate Form in July At that point, the form is to be completed and submitted on or prior to the specified due date on the form In August, candidates will receive notification of acceptance or non-acceptance as a member
Members will be received into the NCS chapter of the NEHS at an annual Induction Ceremony held each fall. This will be a special time for NCS and guests to honor these highly excelling students.
Ms Wieland (5th Grade) and Mrs Krem (4th Grade) serve as the NCS Advisors to the NCS Chapter of the National Elementary Honor Society
ASAP CLUBS FOR FALL 2026
After School Advantage Program (ASAP) Clubs are for K-5 students. Specific days and the duration for each club will be available via online registration on Meet the Teacher Day. The majority of clubs start the week of September 14.
Chapel Cherubs
Unlike other clubs, this club meets sporadically throughout the year This club is an opportunity for those students who love to praise the Lord through movement and music! Mrs. Barrett will lead this group of children to use the Holy Spirit's power and presence in singing praises to the Lord during four elementary school chapels, beginning in October-May Dates are TBD Grades 1-5
Cheer and Pom
This is a class that builds basic cheerleading abilities and will prepare your child for future cheerleading endeavors. The Jr. Cheer Squad will learn crowd encouragement skills, chants, pom routines, arm angles, jumps, basic tumbling, and much more! An emphasis is also placed on positive leadership development Grades K-5
Christian Youth Theater
Since its founding in 1980, CYT has grown to be the largest youth theater program in the nation, with branches across the country. NCS is excited for this new partnership as we bring drama to the elementary school. More details to come.
Crazy Cool Science
In Crazy, Cool Science we take a hands-on, enthusiastic, mind-blowing approach! We learn through conducting our experiments and developing critical thinking skills through the steps of the scientific method And we even BLOW STUFF UP!!! Your child won't even realize they are learning because it just feels like exciting exploration! NEW LABS every Session! Grades K-5
Cross Country
This running club is designed to help our students become stronger, faster, and smarter runners. Grades 2-5.
Crusaders Chess
Chess Emporium teaches a fun and exciting introduction to the game of chess. Chess Club begins by teaching students how to play the game, chess openings, tactics, and endgames, while allowing students to practice with their friends. This class provides chess strategies and tournament play. Grades K-8
Dance: Jazz, Hip-hop and Basic Tumbling
In this upbeat dance class we’ll listen to age appropriate music all the kids know! We’ll have fun learning jazz, hip-hop & basic tumbling moves We’ll play dance games, make up dances to show at the end of the semester and learn a new dance every 3 weeks. No previous dance experience is required. If you’ve ever wanted to try dance, this is your chance! Grades K-3
Jump Rope Club
Come Have Fun Jumping for Jesus! Join us for a day full of energy, laughter, and love for Jesus! We'll have lots of jump rope games, fun prizes, and excitement for everyone Let's get our hearts pumping, our feet moving, and make Jesus proud together! Each participant will receive their very own jump rope! Come ready to move, play, and praise! Grades K-6
LEGO STEM
This club is designed to get elementary students excited about STEM learning at a young age with playful and relatable problem-solving challenges that help them become independent thinkers. We use SPIKE Essential and SPIKE Prime kits that are designed to engage students using LEGOs! Our building structures include a ferris wheel, cars, builders choice, and science/animal themes Grades 3-5
ASAP CLUBS FOR FALL 2026
Mathnasium at NCS
Through assessment, customized learning paths and targeted lessons for understanding and comprehension, Mathnasium can help students grow. Come visit the Mathnasium table at Meet the Teacher Day to inquire about the new program coming right here onto campus Grades K-8
PE Play
If you love PE class, then this is the club for you! The PE club will consist of all of your favorite games and activities that we play throughout the school year. Some of those games will include kickball, dodgeball, and capture the chicken! Grab a friend as we have fun playing and competing each week on the big solar panel field. Grades 1-5
Reptile Club by Phoenix Herpitological Society
Through the 6 week program students will learn about a different group of reptiles PHS will feature live reptiles every week including: tortoise, turtles, lizards, snakes, crocs, and end with the class favorites During the hour students will get to meet each reptile and learn all about them! Interactions are an essential part of our presentations and will be a part of each one
Soccer Shots
Soccer Shots offers three core programs to meet the developmental needs of children ages 2 to 8 It’s way more than just learning the game of soccer. We aim to build character, skills, and confidence while also having a whole lot of FUN. We’re committed to providing safe, positive experiences through the game of soccer. Each of our three core programs teaches the right skills at the right age Grades K-2
Snazzy Snacks
Students will create kid-friendly recipes and enjoy eating what they create! Grades K-5
Beginner Symphonettes/Intermediate Symphonettes
Do you love the violin? Do you love the sound of the cello? Does a viola sound cool? Come be a part of the Symphonettes or our String Orchestra and learn how to play these awesome instruments with friends and make music together! Clubs meet once a week 3:00-4:15 in the elementary music room (Room 442) located on the South end of campus Start date in August Grades 3-5
Worship Warriors
Do you have an interest in worshiping our Lord and Savior with your fellow Crusaders? Well, do we have the group for you! As Worship Warriors, we will not only sing and listen to classic hymns and new worship songs we will connect them to the Bible verses they are inspired by! Please join this club for some unforgettable fellowship with others. Grades K-5
JUNIOR CRUSADERS SPORTS PROGRAM
The Junior Crusaders Sports Program provides NCS students from Pre-K through 8th grade the fantastic opportunity to pursue their passion for sports in a safe, competitive, fun, and Christ-centered environment. Students who sign up to be part of the Junior Crusaders Program will have the unique privilege and experience of representing their school as Crusaders in a competitive and fun athletic environment. Our Junior Crusader teams will play under the umbrella of CCV STARS and NYS.
Junior Crusaders Sports is an inclusive program. It welcomes all Pre-K through 8th-grade boys and girls from Northwest Christian School, regardless of ability or prior experience! All are encouraged to participate and enjoy the fun, the community-building, and great learning experiences that come from team sports!
Fall 2026 Sports Programs
Sport Grades Gender Registration
CCV Flag Football ccvstars.com
CCV Soccer ccvstars.com
Pre-K/K 1st/2nd 3rd/4th 5th/6th 7th/8th Boys & Girls Teams
Pre-K/K 1st/2nd 3rd/4th 5/6/7 Boys & Girls Teams
Online Registration: ccvstars com
Registration is open *Request NCS team
Online Registration: ccvstars com
Registration opens mid June *Request NCS team
ASAP Clubs Starting in September for 8 weeks Sign up link on Meet the Teacher Day
Online Registration: www.nysaz.com Girls can join a team. Contact Dyee@ncsaz.org if you would like to help coach a NCS team.
Please note: Registration Deadlines do exist, but registration closes when capacity is reached.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS NCS
SECONDARY 6TH-12TH GRADE NCS
MIDDLE SCHOOL 6TH-8TH GRADE NCS
FROM SECONDARY PRINCIPALS
Dear NCS Family,
One of the most meaningful traditions at Northwest Christian School takes place each year when our high school student council gathers to select the spiritual theme for the upcoming school year. This student-led process reflects the heart of our school and provides an opportunity for students to prayerfully consider the message God may have for our community in the year ahead.
Approximately 30 student leaders participate in the selection process. Prior to the meeting, each student prepares theme ideas supported by scripture and comes ready to offer up and discuss prospective ideas. Throughout the afternoon, students thoughtfully evaluate the various themes, considering not only their personal preferences but also what message would best encourage and challenge our entire school community.
As our students engage in these conversations, they recognize the significance of their responsibility. The theme they select will serve as a guiding focus throughout the year, shaping chapels, spiritual formation opportunities, and campus events. Following the selection, students begin designing banners, graphics, and apparel that will visually represent the theme across our campuses.
I am excited to share this year's spiritual theme: Rooted in Christ.
Colossians 2:6-7 (ESV)
"Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving "
Just as a tree draws strength, stability, and nourishment from its roots, our prayer is that every student, family, and staff member would be firmly rooted in Christ and continue to grow in faith throughout the coming year.
In a world that often encourages us to find our identity, security, and purpose in temporary things, this year's theme reminds us that true growth begins with a strong foundation When our lives are rooted in Christ, we are strengthened in our faith, equipped to withstand challenges, and able to grow into the people God has created us to be As we remain grounded in His truth, we can confidently pursue His purpose for our lives and bear fruit that brings glory to Him
Year after year, we have seen God work through this student-led tradition in remarkable ways. We are excited to see how He will use this theme to shape our community, deepen our faith, and draw us closer to Him during the year ahead
Please join us in praying for our school as we begin this new year together, asking God to help us remain firmly rooted in Christ in all that we do.
Calendar for the School Year 26/27 School Calendar
Camp Information for HS Students
Click HERE for the details Please read this letter and complete all tasks on the checklist by July 3rd!
Missions Learning and Church Attendance for HS Students
Please click HERE for the details.
FROM SECONDARY PRINCIPALS
Updated Dress Code
Few topics generate as much conversation within a school community as the dress code. We understand that personal expression and school expectations do not always align perfectly, which is why we believe it is important to communicate both the purpose and the philosophy behind our approach
Our goal is to maintain a consistent, business-casual standard that is developmentally appropriate for students and helps prepare them for future environments, whether in college, the workplace, or other professional settings. We believe that learning to dress appropriately for different settings is an important life skill and one way we help students develop habits that will serve them well beyond their years at NCS
As we prepared for the upcoming school year, we reviewed the dress code and made one minor clarification. In addition to the existing five-inch inseam requirement for shorts, shorts must also extend beyond the student's fingertips when standing naturally This additional guideline is intended to provide greater clarity and consistency when determining appropriate length.
As we begin the new school year, I respectfully ask for your partnership in supporting these expectations. Please take an active role in the purchase of school attire and encourage your student to approach the dress code with a spirit of cooperation and maturity Consistency between home and school helps create an environment where students can focus on what matters most: growing academically, spiritually, and relationally.
We also ask for your support in reinforcing our expectations at extracurricular activities and school-sponsored events, including athletic contests Together, we can help ensure that our students represent themselves, their families, and Northwest Christian School in a manner that reflects our shared values.
Please review the updated dress code information HERE
High School - Updated Cell Phone Policy
Upon entering each classroom, students are required to turn their phones off and place their phones in the designated phone pocket Phones may be retrieved at the end of each class period Students are not permitted to take their phones to the restroom during class time.
HS Parking Permit Details
Student drivers parking on campus are required to complete the Student Driver Parking Permission form and submit the annual $60 fee A copy of both the student’s driver's license and vehicle insurance are needed, as well as a parent signature Adhesive parking permit decals will be issued and are to be displayed in the front windshield of the vehicle at all times. Students must park in grade level designated parking areas.
Health Office and Emergency Form
Earlier this year (during re-enrollment for returning students), you received a notification in Blackbaud to complete a Health Emergency Form for each of your students. You can check the status of your students forms by logging in, then clicking on “files and forms”. You will then be able to see if any forms are pending, or you can click to see completed forms Your student is not permitted to start the school year without an updated Health Emergency Form on file. If you have any questions please email the School Nurse, Destiney O’Connor, at doconnor@ncsaz.org.
The Health Office will have over-the-counter medications on hand for any student that has parental permission on file. Each student was assigned a medication permission form in their Blackbaud forms, and if permissions were given, the dose available to that student will be as prescribed on the bottle. Please provide any medications that your student might need, only if it is not listed on the form
If your child requires a prescription medication to be available at school, please plan to stop by the Health Office table on Registration Day or visit the Health Office directly to provide that medication and to ensure that all applicable forms are completed and on file.
FROM SECONDARY PRINCIPALS
Supervision When Attending Extra-Curricular Activities on Campus
We look forward to all of the amazing extracurricular events on campus this year! We have lots of fun activities planned and we hope that you all will attend as many as you possibly can. As you attend, we ask that you keep your early education, elementary, and middle school children in sight when you are on campus Please do not allow your children to be on campus unattended. We absolutely love the community that comes from all of these amazing events and look forward to an amazing year!
Before and After School Care
In the best interest of students, middle schoolers are not permitted to roam campus before or after school Additionally, they are not permitted to walk to nearby establishments while on campus, during, before, or after school hours This policy includes attendance of extra-curricular events on campus We recognize that there are times that students need to get to campus early or stay late, so there is an option below at no cost to parents.
Before School - Secondary Students can utilize the Teen Space before school Monday through Friday from 7:00 to 7:45 The Teen Space is located in room 201 and is staffed by an NCS staff member The Teen Space is available for studying, research, test make-up, tutoring, and homework.
After School - Secondary Students can utilize the Teen Space after school Monday through Friday from 3:00 to 5:00. The Teen Space is located in room 120 and is staffed by an NCS staff member. The Teen Space is available for studying, research, test make-up, tutoring, and homework
Secondary Registration Day
Wednesday, August 5th, will kick off the new school year with Secondary Registration Day Please attend during the time set aside for your child. MS and HS are combined to support families with students in both areas.
Time
8:00-9:00
9:00-10:00
Secondary Registration Group
Last name beginning with A, B, or C
Last name beginning with D, E, F, or G
10:00-11:00 Last name beginning with H, I, J, K, L
11:00-12:00 Teacher Lunch Break
12:00-1:00
1:00-2:00
2:00-3:00
Registration Day Stations
Last name beginning with M, N, O or P
Last name beginning with Q, R, or S
Last name beginning with T, U, V, W, X, Y, or Z
When you enter the Don Sanderson Gymnasium on Registration Day, you will get a list of stations offered and their location Some of the stations offered that day are listed below:
Lunch Menu
Club Offerings Bell Schedule
Health Office PE Uniforms to Purchase (MS) Student Schedule
Volunteer Sign-Up Table Senior Lunch Release Forms (HS) Student Driver Parking (HS) Camp Information (HS)
Registration Day Fee
A flat fee will be assessed to your student’s Blackbaud Tuition Management Account, which can be paid online with a debit, credit card, or bank account. You can also pay your fee on Registration Day by cash, check, credit or debit card The Registration Day Fee is due before August 4th Late fees of $50 will apply to unpaid fees as of August 8th.
Middle School: $120 High School: $225
FROM SECONDARY PRINCIPALS
Optional Items to be purchased on Registration Day (cash or check only)
● MS PE Uniform $25 - required for all MS students taking PE
● HS Parking Permit $60 (bring a copy of insurance and license) - required for HS students to park on campus
● MS and HS 2026-2027 NCS Theme T-shirt $20 - Students may wear jeans with this t-shirt on Friday’s throughout the year.
Please make every effort to attend your planned time for Registration Day, however, if you are unable to attend on August 5th, please contact Mrs Baldwin at mbaldwin@ncsaz org or 602-978-5134 ext 514 to make an appointment prior to the first day of school.
Important Dates in July/August Date Time Event Location
August 5th See Previous Page Secondary Registration Day Don Sanderson Gymnasium
August 6th 12:00 - 1:00 PM New Student Welcome Party Grades 6-8: MS Hallway Grades 9-12: Don Sanderson Gymnasium
August 10th 7:45 AM First Day of School Report to First Hour
August 12th-14th HS Camp Lost Canyon, Williams, AZ
August 27th 5:30 PM Secondary Back-to-School Night More details to come
August 27th During School Hours Secondary (grades 6-11) Picture DayWatch for more details in the Week-at-a-Glance Don Sanderson Gymnasium
We are looking forward to another great year at Northwest Christian School!
Sincerely,
JT Barnes Middle School Principal
Samantha Maszton High School Principal/Assistant Superintendent
Northwest Christian School
Calendar 2026-2027
AUGUST
5 MS & HS Registration
6 Elementary (K-5th) “Meet the Teacher” Day
Kindergarten - 2nd Grade “Back to School Night” Early Ed Orientation
10 School Begins- All Ground Including Early Ed
12-14 HS Camp 17 Online school begins
25 Elementary “Back to School Night” K-5 Picture Day
27 MS & HS “Back to School” Night
6-12 Picture Day
SEPTEMBER
4 No School - Teacher In-Service 7 Labor Day – No School 23-24 Preschool Picture Day OCTOBER
1 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences 11:00 a m Dismissal – K-12 No School Preschool, Mini Crusaders
2 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences No School for Elementary, Mini Cru, Preschool MS and HS – 11:00 a m Dismissal
5-9 Fall Break – No School
NOVEMBER
9 Veterans Day Observance- No School 23-24 Grandparents Days 25 Thanksgiving Vacation Begins –11:00 a.m. Dismissal
26-27 Thanksgiving Vacation DECEMBER
15 High School Final Exams – Full Day 16-17 High School Final Exams 18 Christmas Break Begins –11:00 a m Dismissal (All Grades)
JANUARY
School Resumes
Online School Resumes
No school - Teacher In-Service
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – No School
FEBRUARY 9 Open House & Curriculum Showcase 12 No School - Teacher In-Service All School Re-enrollment & Deposit Due 15 Presidents’ Day – No School
MARCH 11 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences 11:00 a.m. Dismissal – K-12 No School Preschool and Mini Crusaders 12 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher ConferencesNo School for Elementary, Mini Cru, Preschool MS and HS – 11:00 a.m. Dismissal 15-19 Spring Break 22 School Resumes 26 Good Friday- No School 29 Easter Monday - No School
30 No School - Teacher In-Service
17-21 Senior Final Exams 25 High School Final Exams – Full Day 27 11:00 a.m. Dismissal (Early Ed & HS) 28 Last Day of School – 11:00 a.m. Dismissal (All Grades) 8th Grade Promotion Senior Graduation – 7:00 p m
Northwest Christian School
Traditional Ground K-12 Tuition & Fees
2026-2027
Grade/Age Levels
Extended Care (K-8)
-
$7.50/hr. Pre-Scheduled Available 7:30am - 8:00am and 3:00pm - 5:30pm
$8.00/hr. Drop in Fees - Non-Refundable
Fee, due upon acceptance
Re-Enrollment Fee, by 2/13/26
- includes $150 course credit, $400 if not completed by 8/1/26
Re-Enrollment Fee, after 2/13/26
- includes $150 course credit, $450 if not completed by 8/1/26
*Students in all grade levels with late re-enrollment agreement submissions may be subject to a wait list
$300
Program Change Fee $50
Student Activity Fees
K-5 (non-refundable) $50 *Student Activity Fees will be charged to Tuition Management accounts
6-8 (non-refundable) $120 *Fees are due in full before the first day of school, 8/10/26
9-12 (non-refundable) $225
*Student Activity Fees are subject to late fees after 8/10/26
Multi-Student Discounts (Kindergarten - 12)
1st Child Regular price
2nd Child 10% to both students
3rd Child 18% to all three students
4th Child + A discounted tuition rate of $4,000 for Kindergarten and $7,000 for grades 1-12 will be given to the 4th and any additional K-12 students in the family Online/Flex students will receive an 18% discount on their tuition Early Education, Preschool, Homeschool, or Frameworks are not included in the multi-student discount.
Enrollment Refund Policy
Enrollment and re-enrollment fees are non-refundable for the 26-27 school year.
Tuition Payment Policy
• Tuition for Kindergarten through 11th Grade on the ground students will be divided into eleven monthly payments. The first payment is due Aug 1 and the last payment is due on or before June 1. Tuition for Seniors will be divided into 10 monthly payments. The final payment is due on or before May 1.
• Any payment received after the seventh of the month will be considered late and the account will be assessed a $50 late charge.
• If an account becomes more than 60 days past due, the student may not be allowed to attend class until the account is brought current.
• There is a $25 charge on all checks returned by the bank.
• Tuition for graduating seniors must be paid in full by May 15th in order for the student to participate in year end trips and graduation ceremonies. Additionally, the remaining family account must be paid through May
• If annual family tuition is paid in full on or before the first day of school (8/10/26), the family will receive a three percent discount.
• Parents must inform the finance office upon acceptance of an ESA contract in any quarter
01/09/2026
MIDDLE SCHOOL SUPPLY LIST
Below, you will find a MS Supply List. These are items that each student in grades 6-8 will need for the first day of school Included in the list are items that each MS student will use to build two binders on the first day of school that will serve as an organizational system for all of their classes. One binder will be used for the first half of the day and the other for the second half of the day. This is a complete list of supplies. No additional supplies will be needed
6th - 8th Grade Supplies
1 NCS Planner (given at Registration Day)
2 1.5” binders for AM and PM classes OR one 3” zippered binder for all classes
2 three-hole pencil pouches to be clipped inside AM/PM binders OR one pencil pouch/bag to hold all supplies
Instrument specific supplies such as reeds, valve oil, etc (Detailed info will be given at the beginning of the year)
Physical Education
1 Pair of athletic shoes
1 NCS PE uniform, available for purchase on Registration Day. Shorts $15 each, Shirts $10 each.
1 Deodorant (replenish as necessary)
SECONDARY DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS 2026/2027
Notes:
This is an excerpt of the dress code. The complete policy can be found in the Secondary Handbook.
Dress code issues related to modesty or judgment calls are at the discretion of faculty and administration. Modesty is the priority.
Students who are out-of-dress code will receive a minor violation and be required to change clothes with borrowed clothes from school or go home to change.
Please check guidelines on piercings and hair color before Monday
General Expectations of Dress Code
To be in compliance with dress code all students are required to have their NCS student ID accessible during the school day. A replacement fee will be required for lost cards.
1. All clothing must be neat, clean, and fit appropriately.
2. All outerwear (including jackets, sweaters, and sweatshirts) must be a solid color. Logos may be no larger than the size of a credit card. During out of dress, jackets, sweaters, or sweatshirts with rock bands, sexual innuendos, inappropriate messages or pictures, occult symbols, alcohol, drugs, or other questionable pictures that draw attention to self are not allowed
3. Footwear must have hard/puncture resistant soles. Sandals of any type meeting this description are acceptable Heels are to be no more than two inches
4. Hats may not be worn inside the buildings during school hours.
5. Hair is to be neat, clean, a natural color, and be kept out of the students' faces. No extreme styles allowed. Boys’ hair may not be over their eyebrows, earlobes or collars.
6. Male students must be clean-shaven, beards and mustaches are not allowed.
7. No piercings of any kind for boys; ear piercings only for girls. Clear plugs are not permitted as a substitute. No visible tattoos are allowed for boys or girls.
8. No extreme fashions are allowed.
9. Any clothing, book bags, notebooks, jewelry or other paraphernalia with rock bands, sexual innuendos, inappropriate messages or pictures, occult symbols, alcohol, drugs or other questionable pictures that draw attention to self are not allowed.
10.The school administration reserves the right to make modifications to the dress code for special occasions.
Parents have the responsibility for sending their children to school dressed and groomed properly.
SECONDARY DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS 2026/2027
Parents of students who violate the dress code will be notified Students who are out-of-dress code will receive a minor violation and be required to change clothes with borrowed clothes from school or go home to change.
Dress code issues related to modesty or judgment calls are at the discretion of faculty and administration Modesty is the priority
Specific Dress Code Requirements
Shirts – All Students
● Solid color or striped polo shirts are required
● Non-offensive logos are acceptable (logo must not exceed the size of a credit card).
● Any brand of solid or striped polo is acceptable.
● NCS/NC polos are also permissible (e g , striped golf polos)
● Polos may not be cropped
● Shirts must be long enough to cover the beltline when arms are raised above the head.
● Polos must have a finished hem and may not be cut.
● Polo shirts may be purchased from any store, as long as they meet the above requirements
● Students may layer shirts under the required polo
Pants – All Students
● Must be uniform style made of dress pant, twill/cotton, or corduroy material
● Not permitted: spandex, lycra, nylon, rayon, jeggings, jeans, denim, or blue jean material
● Acceptable colors: navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan, or brown.
● Capri pants and cargo shorts/pants are acceptable
● Overalls are not allowed.
Shorts – Girls
● Must be uniform style (not athletic)
● Minimum inseam: 5 inches and length must be past the fingertips when hands are fully extended at sides
● May be worn year-round.
● Must be loose-fitting and made of dress pant, twill/cotton, or corduroy material
● Not permitted materials: denim, spandex, lycra, nylon, rayon, mesh, flannel, velour, or terry-cloth
● Acceptable colors: solid navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan, or brown (white is not allowed).
Shorts – Guys
● Must be uniform style (not athletic)
● Minimum inseam: 7 inches.
● May be worn year-round
● Must be loose-fitting and made of dress pant, twill/cotton, or corduroy material.
● Not permitted materials: denim, spandex, lycra, nylon, rayon, mesh, flannel, velour, or terry-cloth.
● Acceptable colors: solid navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan, or brown (white is not allowed)
● No visible layering under shorts.
Skirts – Girls
● Must be uniform style and pleated
● Material: cotton or polyester.
● Athletic skirts are not permitted.
● Length: Must extend three inches past fingertips when arms are fully extended.
● Color: solid navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan, or brown (no white)
● No patterns or plaid.
● Opaque tights may be worn under skirts.
● Not allowed under skirts: sweatpants, pajama pants, leggings, or joggers
SECONDARY DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS 2026/2027
Outerwear, Sweatshirts, and Hoodies
● Solid-colored sweaters or sweatshirts may be worn over polos
● Sweatshirts with non-offensive logos are acceptable (logo must not exceed the size of a credit card)
● NCS logoed outerwear is permissible.
Friday Dress Code
● Students may wear the current year’s theme t-shirt with solid-colored jeans (no holes; frayed edges acceptable if clean cut).
● Any NCS or NC shirt may be worn with uniform bottoms.
Athletes on Game Day, Fine Arts, and Clubs
● May wear team/club-approved shirts with uniform bottoms only.
On-Campus Out-of-Dress Day Guidelines
● No tank tops.
● Shorts must have a minimum 5-inch inseam.
● No yoga pants or leggings.
● No holes in jeans, shorts, or skirts
● No band/performer shirts allowed except for Christian artists.
● Modesty is thegeneralrule
Spirit Week & Out-of-Dress Day Guidelines
● No tank tops.
● Shorts/Skirt length must have a minimum 5-inch inseam.
● Yoga pants/leggings may only be worn with shorts over top.
● No holes in any clothing
● Face paint and temporary hair color are allowed if it aligns with the dress theme (apply at home).
● No weapons (real or fake) allowed.
● Modesty is thegeneralrule.
Extra-Curricular Events - Including Athletic, Fine Arts, and Club Events
● Students are expected to practice modesty when attending school events.
● Students should wear shorts with 4 inch inseam for girls and 7 inch inseam for boys
The middle school teachers are committed to assisting students in organizing their work This will help them to get the most out of their academic experience Part of this is a uniform binder organizational system that we have designed for every middle school child.
Instructions:
Please have your child’s binders organized for the first day of school in the following manner.
1 Each child should have 2 - 1 5 inch view binders or 1 - 4 inch binder
2 Each binder should contain 5 page dividers with pockets and notebook paper in the back
3. Using your child’s class schedule obtained via Blackbaud on or after Registration Day, please label the tabs for the classes that your child will have before lunch. Your child will have the first four classes on his or her schedule before lunch Please keep in mind that their classes will likely change each semester
4. In the second binder, please do the same with your child’s afternoon classes which are the last three classes of the day.
5 The last pocket divider in each binder needs to be labeled “Keep at Home”
6 In each binder, please place a pencil pouch with the following items: pens (including a red one for grading), pencils, a whiteboard marker, and a highlighter. The items found on the supply list that are not in the binder or pencil pouch should be kept in the student’s locker and taken to class at the teacher’s request.
7. 8th GRADE ONLY - Please include graph paper in the math section of the binder.
8 Each student should take their planner to every class
9. Students should take their Bible with them to Bible class.
MIDDLE SCHOOL LOCKER PROCEDURES
Purpose of Lockers
The purpose of having student lockers is to provide storage for students during the day. The lockers are to be used to store student items that are school related. No items that may interfere with the school program may be stored in the lockers
This includes any potentially hazardous or illegal materials.
Locks
All students will receive a lock to use for the year but will be expected to return the lock on the last day of school The lock, including the combination, will be retained by the school so that locker inspections can be done throughout the year. Any other lock will be removed by the school administration. Students should not give their combination to another classmate and the student must keep the locker locked at all times. No student is to be in another’s locker for any reason
Inspection
Students must keep their locker clean and orderly taking any edible items out on a daily basis. The school administration has the right to inspect any locker without prior notice given to the student. Regular locker inspections will be done throughout the year to ensure proper maintenance
Decoration of Lockers
Students may personalize the inside of his or her locker with temporary embellishments No decorations will be permitted on the outside of the lockers. Students may personalize the inside by using magnets to decorate using school appropriate materials that are not contrary to our school’s mission No tape, stickers, or permanent markings may be placed on or in the lockers
Visit to Lockers
Students will be permitted to visit their locker between classes. No student will be permitted to leave class to retrieve items from their locker. In the event that items are left in the locker, the policies that apply to late work will also apply in this scenario
Hallway
No items may be stored on the hallway floor or ground of the locker cages without prior approval from the principal. The hallway must be kept clean at all times and all items are to be stored in the student’s locker. Oversized athletic totes can be stored neatly in the designated place at the north end of the hallway or in the appropriate locker room.
Use of Backpack
No backpacks will be permitted to be carried throughout the day into the classrooms. The backpack must be left in the locker
MIDDLE SCHOOL LATE WORK POLICY
Students are expected to appear in class, on time, and prepared Assignments are due on the day and hour in which the student has the class If the work is submitted after class, then the work will be considered late
Formative Assignments/Daily Work
1 day late = 20% off 2 days late = no credit
Summative Assignments/Projects or Tests
1 day late = 20% off 2 days late = 50% off 3 days late = no credit
Each student will be given two “oops passes” per class per semester. This will allow the student to turn in a formative assignment one day late for full credit with no penalty. The passes may be used on formative assignments only. Students may not use another student’s pass.
Students who are scheduled to be absent from classes due to athletics or field trips are required to turn in any work due on the determined day/time prior to their departure Additionally, these students must take all quizzes or tests that are due that day, or make arrangements with their teacher to take them on the next school day. It is also the responsibility of the student to obtain all assignments that will be given on that day and due the next day in class.
When a student is absent, it is his/her responsibility to make up for missed work If work is incomplete due to an excused absence, a student will have the number of days plus one to make up assignments
If a student is absent the day before a long-term project is due, it is still due on the original assigned date by the end of the school day. Long-term assignments are to be turned in the day they are due. Students must make arrangements to have projects delivered to school Students who are scheduled to be absent from classes due to athletics or field trips are required to turn in any work due on the determined day/time prior to their departure If a situation calls for an exception to this policy, the student must contact the teacher before the long-term project is due.
iPAD ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
Thepolicies, procedures, andinformation within this documentapply to allNCS-ownediPads. Parents&StudentsmustelectronicallysigntheiPadAcceptableUseForminBlackbaudpriortotheissuanceofan iPad. Thestudentandoneparentmustsigntheformwhileloggedintotheirindividualaccounts. Annual TechnologyFeepaidwithinRegistrationDayFee.
The purpose of assigning an iPad and providing digital tools to every secondary student is to enhance learning and extend opportunities beyond the classroom. These resources are academic tools and should be used accordingly, adhering to the stated user responsibilities
User Responsibilities
● Charge it. Starteachday at100%.
● Keep the case on and without decorations. The caseprotects the screen andiPadandmustremain in goodcondition. Do notaddstickers or decorations to the case.
● Be responsible. Obtainpermission before taking video orpictures ofothers, including teachers. Useyour iPadas a toolduring class andfor entertainmentwhenpermitted
● Keep backgrounds. The lockscreen andbackgroundimages mustremain the theme image Focus may be usedto organize apps andlimitnotifications only.
● Handle with care. Don'tspin or drop, putheavy objects, food, or drinks on top, or subjectitto extreme coldor heat - like directsunlightor insideyour car.
● Don’t lose it. Know whereyour iPadis locatedandcontactHelpDesk@ncsaz.org ifitis misplaced.
● Don’t leave it unattended. Secureyour iPadinyour locker or a classroom when notin use.
● Don’t lend it. You shouldbe the only user ofyour iPadandyour accounts.
● Back it up. Follow iPadSetup Instructions to backupyour workin Google Drive andiCloud. Data may be lostatany moment
○ Malfunctions or technical issues are not acceptable excuses for failing to complete school work.
○ NCS is not responsible for work that is lost or corrupted on the iPad.
○ If a malfunction occurs, email HelpDesk@ncsaz org and your teacher with details about the error
● Troubleshoot You willneedto establishany internetconnections offcampus Be resourcefulandask for help when needed.
● Check your email. Regularly checkyour schoolemailanduse itto communicate aboutschoolbusiness.
Failure to uphold these expectations may result in a technology-specific minor. Please see the Student Handbook for policies regarding school-owned and personal technologies, submission of original work, minor and major infractions, and consequences of minors
Division Specific Policies Middle School
● iPad may not be used during break, lunch, chapel, and Impact Groups Store iPads in your locker when not in use.
● Hard iPad shield must be kept on iPad when not in use High School
● Case may be substituted for a compatible, hard case with an attached keyboard. iPad must be returned with the original case Standard damage fees will apply
Loaner iPads
In the event that a student forgets their iPad or brings it to class uncharged, a loaner iPad may be borrowed for the day. Loaners should be returned at the end of the day. A technology-specific minor will be recorded for each instance of a borrowed iPad, except when authorized by the technology team. Additional minors may be issued for failure to return the loaner iPad by the end of the day
iPAD ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
Lost, Damaged, or Stolen iPads
Do not attempt to repair or disassemble any part of the iPad or take it to be repaired by an outside agency In the event that the iPad is damaged, promptly email HelpDesk@ncsaz.org or visit the HelpDesk window adjacent to the office If your iPad is misplaced or stolen, contact HelpDesk, by email or in person, as soon as possible, so that the tech team can help to locate it
The following fee structure applies to any school-owned iPad that is either lost, damaged, or stolen:
1 Damaged iPad, student will pay
● $200 per occurrence
2 Lost or stolen iPad, student will pay
● $400 per occurrence If a plan for payment has not been established within a week, the Principal and Finance Office will be contacted
iPad and Internet Prohibited Uses
The following behaviors are prohibited by the school:
● Sharing personal information online or communicating in public chats or forums
● Signing up for accounts, including social media platforms, using your school information without school approval
● Using school computers, iPads, or accounts for unlawful activities.
● Bypassing filtering or restrictions implemented by school staff, including the use of “unblocked” sites or games.
● Taking credit for ideas that are not your own; instead, use proper citations to give credit If at any time you feel uncomfortable or something doesn’t seem right, contact a teacher, Principal, or tech team member for assistance.
Frequently Used Programs
Additional programs or accounts may be assigned by teachers in accordance with the Instructional Technology Permissions form
● Canvas (NCS Plus & NCS Online) Mostclasses willpostresources, lessons, assignments, and assessments in Canvas. Notability andApple file types cannotbe readin Canvas. Uploadworkas PDFs wheneverpossible.
● iCloud & Managed Apple ID. Your schoolemailisyour Apple IDwith200GBofiCloudstorage. This Apple IDcannotaccess iMessage, iTunes, or FindMy services
● Google Drive Useyour schoolemailto access Google apps, including Docs, Slides, &Sheets
● Notability Afavorite note-taking app Be sure to auto-backup to Google Drive using “Note”file format andto iCloud.
● Jamf Student, Parent, & Teacher. The Studentapp allowsyou to download “on-demand”apps andto updateyour apps onyour own time. The Teacher app allows teachers to share class-specific apps and to restrictyour iPad’s functionality during class Ifrestrictions failto clear, emailHelpDesk@ncsaz org
Parent/Guardian and Student Usage Agreement (SignElectronicallyviaBlackbaudpriortoRegistrationDay) We have read the Northwest Christian School iPad Acceptable Use Policy and have discussed the expectations We understand and support the student’s responsibility for abiding by each policy. We understand that access is being provided to the students for educational purposes and activity may be monitored. However, we also understand that it is impossible for the school to filter out all offensive and controversial materials We will not hold NCS (or any of its employees or officers) responsible for materials that students may come in contact with while on the Internet. We agree to the replacement costs as outlined in the lost, damaged, or stolen section of the iPad Acceptable Use Policy We agree that the iPad will be returned in good working condition with its original case when collected by NCS.
MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETIC OFFERINGS
Northwest Christian Middle School offers the following sports programs as extra-curricular activities for middle school students
Fall Sports:
● Girls Volleyball (6th, 7th, and 8th)
● Co Ed Soccer (7th and 8th)
● Boys Tackle Football (7th and 8th)
● Girls Cheer (7th and 8th)
● Boys Wrestling October - December (6th, 7th, and 8th)
● Girls Wrestling October - December (6th, 7th, and 8th)
Winter Sports:
● Girls Softball (7th and 8th)
● Girls Cross Country (6th, 7th, and 8th)
● Boys Cross Country (6th, 7th, and 8th)
● Boys Baseball (7th and 8th)
● Boys Volleyball (7th and 8th)
Spring Sports:
● Boys Basketball (6th, 7th, and 8th)
● Girls Basketball (6th, 7th, and 8th)
● Co Ed Golf (7th and 8th)
● Girls Cheer (7th and 8th)
● Girls Flag Flag Football (7th and 8th)
Sports Fee:
The Middle School sports fee is $85.00 per sport per season with the exception of football which is $135.00.
Football begins Monday August 10 with practice all 5 days (M - F) the first 2 weeks. Equipment hand out will be on Friday, August 8 from 3:15-4:30pm
7th and 8th Girls Volleyball Tryouts on August 12 & 13 will take place from 4:45-6:00pm If students need a place to wait after school until tryouts begin, room 120 (High School Tech Lab) will be open and available
Eligibility:
Grades are taken from gradebooks every week after the first four weeks of the start of the semester to determine the athlete’s eligibility. If the athlete is earning a “F” in any course, they are deemed ineligible, and he or she will not be permitted to play in games for one week. The grades will be reevaluated by the athletic department or principal at the beginning of every week. The athlete may still participate in practice.
MIDDLE SCHOOL IMPACT GROUPS
Dear Middle School Family,
The middle school years are incredibly important and formative During this stage of life, students are beginning to ask big questions: Who am I? Where do I fit in? Do my choices matter? As they navigate these questions, meaningful relationships with caring adults can have a profound impact on their sense of identity, belonging, and purpose I am so thankful that the middle school staff at NCS feel called to this age group and work tirelessly to connect with students and point them to Christ
At Northwest Christian School, we are blessed to partner with families who are raising their children in Christian homes and connecting them to the local church. We also recognize that the ages of 10–15 are especially significant years in a student's faith journey
One way we intentionally partner with families is through Impact Groups. Each middle school student is part of a small group led by a staff member and made up of students in the same grade level. The simple goal of these groups is to cultivate meaningful relationships and a strong sense of belonging
Every Wednesday following Chapel, Impact Groups gather across campus During this time, leaders may follow up on the chapel message, pray together, enjoy snacks, play Just Dance, Extreme Pictionary, or participate in other fun activities. While the activities vary from week to week, the purpose remains the same: connection. We want students to know they are known, valued, and cared for by trusted adults who are invested in their lives and faith.
It is a privilege to build community with our students and walk alongside them during these formative years. Through Impact Groups, we hope to create relationships that encourage students as they grow in their faith and deepen their relationship with Christ. I would ask that you pray for our Impact Groups throughout the year and for the relationships that are formed within them.
God bless,
JT Barnes Middle School Principal
NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY
National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) is more than just an honor roll. Each Honor Society chapter establishes rules for membership that are based upon a student's outstanding performance in the areas of: Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character (plus Citizenship for NJHS). These criteria for selection form the foundation upon which the organization and its activities are built The advisors for our chapter are Mrs Coughlin and Mrs Shepherd. If you are new to NCS and have been inducted into NJHS in your previous school, please bring your certificate to be accepted into NCS NJHS. Inductions for NJHS are held in March.
Scholarship
Students who have made Principal’s Honor Roll, as determined by the local school's Faculty Council, meet the scholarship requirement for membership. These students are then eligible for consideration on the basis of service, leadership, and character (and citizenship for NJHS).
Service
This quality is defined through the voluntary contributions made by a student to the school or community, done without compensation and with a positive, courteous, and enthusiastic spirit.
Leadership
Student leaders are those who are resourceful, good problem solvers, promoters of school activities, idea-contributors, dependable, and persons who exemplify positive attitudes about life Leadership experiences can be drawn from school or community activities while working with or for others
Character
The student of good character upholds principles of morality and ethics, is cooperative, demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability, shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others, and generally maintains a good and clean lifestyle.
Citizenship
The student who demonstrates citizenship understands the importance of civic involvement, has a high regard for freedom, justice, and equal opportunity, and demonstrates mature participation and responsibility through involvement with such activities as scouting, community organizations, and school clubs.
Eligibility
For NJHS, students in the second semester of the sixth grade, or in grades 7 through 9 in a school with both an official charter of the National Junior Honor Society and an up-to-date affiliation with the NJHS national office are eligible for consideration for membership in NJHS Students must have completed the equivalent of one semester of enrollment.
MIDDLE SCHOOL FOOTBALL MINI CAMP
Dear NCS Families,
One of the greatest opportunities we have in middle school athletics is helping students discover their gifts, build meaningful relationships, and become part of something bigger than themselves Football provides a unique environment where young men learn discipline, perseverance, teamwork, and leadership while building friendships that often last for years.
As we prepare for the upcoming football season, we are excited to offer two Junior High Football Mini Camp days this summer for 7th and 8th grade students. Coach Inness and our Varsity staff are thrilled to host our MS football players! These sessions are designed to introduce students to the NCS football program, connect them with our coaching staff and players, and to begin working on skills that will help produce a successful fall season.
Whether your child has played football for several years or is completely new to the sport, these open field days are designed for all skill levels. Our goal is simple: provide a positive experience that allows students to prepare for the season, compete with one another, and build relationships while working alongside our excellent coaching staff
MIDDLE SCHOOL FOOTBALL MINI CAMPS
Who Can Attend?
All incoming and current 7th and 8th grade NCS students interested in football. No previous football experience is required
Mini Camp Days
Date: Saturday July 11th
Time: 7:30am - 9:00am
Location: NCS Baseball Field
Date: Saturday July 18th
Time: 7:30am - 9:00am
Location: NCS Baseball Field
What to Expect
Throughout the three sessions, students will:
● Meet NCS varsity coaches
● Work alongside current NCS football players
● Learn football fundamentals and position-specific skills
● Participate in competitions and team activities
● Experience the culture and excitement of NCS Football
What to Bring
● NCS Football Shirt (provided by NCS – please provide your child's shirt size in the registration link below)
● Athletic clothing
● Cleats
● Water will be supplied by NCS
Registration
To help us prepare for each session, we ask that all participants complete the registration form prior to attending. There is no cost to participate. Please register by July 3rd.
REGISTER HERE
Parent Information
MIDDLE SCHOOL FOOTBALL MINI CAMP
Parents are encouraged to attend. The baseball field has a number of bleacher chairs, but parents may also bring their own chair. Younger siblings may attend, but must be accompanied by their parents while they are on campus
Our desire is to partner with families as we continue building a football program that develops young men both on and off the field We are looking forward to welcoming both returning and prospective players to the NCS Football family.
If you have any questions, please contact JT Barnes at jbarnes@ncsaz org
We look forward to an exciting season ahead!
Sincerely,
JT Barnes
Middle School Principal
David Inness
High School Athletic Director and Varsity Football Coach
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS NCS
HIGH SCHOOL 9TH-12TH GRADE NCS
FROM SECONDARY PRINCIPALS
Dear NCS Family,
One of the most meaningful traditions at Northwest Christian School takes place each year when our high school student council gathers to select the spiritual theme for the upcoming school year. This student-led process reflects the heart of our school and provides an opportunity for students to prayerfully consider the message God may have for our community in the year ahead.
Approximately 30 student leaders participate in the selection process. Prior to the meeting, each student prepares theme ideas supported by scripture and comes ready to offer up and discuss prospective ideas. Throughout the afternoon, students thoughtfully evaluate the various themes, considering not only their personal preferences but also what message would best encourage and challenge our entire school community.
As our students engage in these conversations, they recognize the significance of their responsibility. The theme they select will serve as a guiding focus throughout the year, shaping chapels, spiritual formation opportunities, and campus events. Following the selection, students begin designing banners, graphics, and apparel that will visually represent the theme across our campuses.
I am excited to share this year's spiritual theme: Rooted in Christ.
Colossians 2:6-7 (ESV)
"Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving "
Just as a tree draws strength, stability, and nourishment from its roots, our prayer is that every student, family, and staff member would be firmly rooted in Christ and continue to grow in faith throughout the coming year.
In a world that often encourages us to find our identity, security, and purpose in temporary things, this year's theme reminds us that true growth begins with a strong foundation When our lives are rooted in Christ, we are strengthened in our faith, equipped to withstand challenges, and able to grow into the people God has created us to be As we remain grounded in His truth, we can confidently pursue His purpose for our lives and bear fruit that brings glory to Him
Year after year, we have seen God work through this student-led tradition in remarkable ways. We are excited to see how He will use this theme to shape our community, deepen our faith, and draw us closer to Him during the year ahead
Please join us in praying for our school as we begin this new year together, asking God to help us remain firmly rooted in Christ in all that we do.
Calendar for the School Year 26/27 School Calendar
Camp Information for HS Students
Click HERE for the details Please read this letter and complete all tasks on the checklist by July 3rd!
Missions Learning and Church Attendance for HS Students
Please click HERE for the details.
FROM SECONDARY PRINCIPALS
Updated Dress Code
Few topics generate as much conversation within a school community as the dress code. We understand that personal expression and school expectations do not always align perfectly, which is why we believe it is important to communicate both the purpose and the philosophy behind our approach
Our goal is to maintain a consistent, business-casual standard that is developmentally appropriate for students and helps prepare them for future environments, whether in college, the workplace, or other professional settings. We believe that learning to dress appropriately for different settings is an important life skill and one way we help students develop habits that will serve them well beyond their years at NCS
As we prepared for the upcoming school year, we reviewed the dress code and made one minor clarification. In addition to the existing five-inch inseam requirement for shorts, shorts must also extend beyond the student's fingertips when standing naturally This additional guideline is intended to provide greater clarity and consistency when determining appropriate length.
As we begin the new school year, I respectfully ask for your partnership in supporting these expectations. Please take an active role in the purchase of school attire and encourage your student to approach the dress code with a spirit of cooperation and maturity Consistency between home and school helps create an environment where students can focus on what matters most: growing academically, spiritually, and relationally.
We also ask for your support in reinforcing our expectations at extracurricular activities and school-sponsored events, including athletic contests Together, we can help ensure that our students represent themselves, their families, and Northwest Christian School in a manner that reflects our shared values.
Please review the updated dress code information HERE
High School - Updated Cell Phone Policy
Upon entering each classroom, students are required to turn their phones off and place their phones in the designated phone pocket Phones may be retrieved at the end of each class period Students are not permitted to take their phones to the restroom during class time.
HS Parking Permit Details
Student drivers parking on campus are required to complete the Student Driver Parking Permission form and submit the annual $60 fee A copy of both the student’s driver's license and vehicle insurance are needed, as well as a parent signature Adhesive parking permit decals will be issued and are to be displayed in the front windshield of the vehicle at all times. Students must park in grade level designated parking areas.
Health Office and Emergency Form
Earlier this year (during re-enrollment for returning students), you received a notification in Blackbaud to complete a Health Emergency Form for each of your students. You can check the status of your students forms by logging in, then clicking on “files and forms”. You will then be able to see if any forms are pending, or you can click to see completed forms Your student is not permitted to start the school year without an updated Health Emergency Form on file. If you have any questions please email the School Nurse, Destiney O’Connor, at doconnor@ncsaz.org.
The Health Office will have over-the-counter medications on hand for any student that has parental permission on file. Each student was assigned a medication permission form in their Blackbaud forms, and if permissions were given, the dose available to that student will be as prescribed on the bottle. Please provide any medications that your student might need, only if it is not listed on the form
If your child requires a prescription medication to be available at school, please plan to stop by the Health Office table on Registration Day or visit the Health Office directly to provide that medication and to ensure that all applicable forms are completed and on file.
FROM SECONDARY PRINCIPALS
Supervision When Attending Extra-Curricular Activities on Campus
We look forward to all of the amazing extracurricular events on campus this year! We have lots of fun activities planned and we hope that you all will attend as many as you possibly can. As you attend, we ask that you keep your early education, elementary, and middle school children in sight when you are on campus Please do not allow your children to be on campus unattended. We absolutely love the community that comes from all of these amazing events and look forward to an amazing year!
Before and After School Care
In the best interest of students, middle schoolers are not permitted to roam campus before or after school Additionally, they are not permitted to walk to nearby establishments while on campus, during, before, or after school hours This policy includes attendance of extra-curricular events on campus We recognize that there are times that students need to get to campus early or stay late, so there is an option below at no cost to parents.
Before School - Secondary Students can utilize the Teen Space before school Monday through Friday from 7:00 to 7:45 The Teen Space is located in room 201 and is staffed by an NCS staff member The Teen Space is available for studying, research, test make-up, tutoring, and homework.
After School - Secondary Students can utilize the Teen Space after school Monday through Friday from 3:00 to 5:00. The Teen Space is located in room 120 and is staffed by an NCS staff member. The Teen Space is available for studying, research, test make-up, tutoring, and homework
Secondary Registration Day
Wednesday, August 5th, will kick off the new school year with Secondary Registration Day Please attend during the time set aside for your child. MS and HS are combined to support families with students in both areas.
Time
8:00-9:00
9:00-10:00
Secondary Registration Group
Last name beginning with A, B, or C
Last name beginning with D, E, F, or G
10:00-11:00 Last name beginning with H, I, J, K, L
11:00-12:00 Teacher Lunch Break
12:00-1:00
1:00-2:00
2:00-3:00
Registration Day Stations
Last name beginning with M, N, O or P
Last name beginning with Q, R, or S
Last name beginning with T, U, V, W, X, Y, or Z
When you enter the Don Sanderson Gymnasium on Registration Day, you will get a list of stations offered and their location Some of the stations offered that day are listed below:
Lunch Menu
Club Offerings Bell Schedule
Health Office PE Uniforms to Purchase (MS) Student Schedule
Volunteer Sign-Up Table Senior Lunch Release Forms (HS) Student Driver Parking (HS) Camp Information (HS)
Registration Day Fee
A flat fee will be assessed to your student’s Blackbaud Tuition Management Account, which can be paid online with a debit, credit card, or bank account. You can also pay your fee on Registration Day by cash, check, credit or debit card The Registration Day Fee is due before August 4th Late fees of $50 will apply to unpaid fees as of August 8th.
Middle School: $120 High School: $225
FROM SECONDARY PRINCIPALS
Optional Items to be purchased on Registration Day (cash or check only)
● MS PE Uniform $25 - required for all MS students taking PE
● HS Parking Permit $60 (bring a copy of insurance and license) - required for HS students to park on campus
● MS and HS 2026-2027 NCS Theme T-shirt $20 - Students may wear jeans with this t-shirt on Friday’s throughout the year.
Please make every effort to attend your planned time for Registration Day, however, if you are unable to attend on August 5th, please contact Mrs Baldwin at mbaldwin@ncsaz org or 602-978-5134 ext 514 to make an appointment prior to the first day of school.
Important Dates in July/August Date Time Event Location
August 5th See Previous Page Secondary Registration Day Don Sanderson Gymnasium
August 6th 12:00 - 1:00 PM New Student Welcome Party Grades 6-8: MS Hallway Grades 9-12: Don Sanderson Gymnasium
August 10th 7:45 AM First Day of School Report to First Hour
August 12th-14th HS Camp Lost Canyon, Williams, AZ
August 27th 5:30 PM Secondary Back-to-School Night More details to come
August 27th During School Hours Secondary (grades 6-11) Picture DayWatch for more details in the Week-at-a-Glance Don Sanderson Gymnasium
We are looking forward to another great year at Northwest Christian School!
Sincerely,
JT Barnes Middle School Principal
Samantha Maszton High School Principal/Assistant Superintendent
Guidance Office Overview:
GUIDANCE OFFICE INFORMATION
Northwest Christian High School is a school rich in tradition and history, committed to providing a Christ-centered, Biblically-based, and academically rigorous education. The NCS Guidance Department is dedicated to preparing students both spiritually and academically to face the challenges of their world, while partnering with families to help students discover their life's purpose in Christ. As students approach graduation, the Guidance Office helps them navigate the many resources available for college and career exploration, bridging the gap between high school and life beyond Families are encouraged to reach out to the Guidance Office with any questions regarding college and career planning, scholarships, testing, and scheduling.
● For our Guidance website click HERE.
● For an overview of NCS’s 7 year guidance plan click HERE
Pursuing His Purpose Course Standardized Test Prep - NEW FOR 2026-2027:
Beginning Fall 2026, students will engage in standardized test preparation modules in addition to service learning and church attendance increasing understanding that academic excellence and diligence are acts of worship and stewardship (Colossians 3:23–24). These modules are designed to sharpen critical thinking, build confidence, and maximize performance on college entrance exams such as the ACT. Strong test scores can expand access to scholarships, grants, and higher education opportunities, equipping students to pursue their God-given calling with both faithfulness and excellence. Please reach out to Mrs. Enriquez with any questions at penriquez@ncsaz.org.
High School Schedule Course Change Request Process:
Schedules will be released Wednesday, August 5th on Registration Day in Blackbaud While every effort was made to accommodate students’ course requests, this is not always possible. Course changes will only be considered in cases of extenuating academic need For expedited assistance with a course change, students may complete a Course Change Request Form by 5:00 PM on Friday, August 14th. Please note that summer school grades may not yet be recorded on transcripts until early August Additionally, a parent email granting permission is required prior to requesting a drop from an Honors course. Students might be assigned a study hall for online coursework based on grade level unless a release has been approved. Email responses will be sent only if a change is eligible to be made, pending seat availability and graduation requirements, during the week following camp.
● For our High School Course Descriptions click HERE
● For our HIgh School Virtual Elective Fair click HERE
● For our Fall 2026 - Spring 2027 NEW Courses click HERE
● For our Fall 2026 Course Change Request Form click HERE
Dual Enrollment:
NCS is proud to offer Dual Enrollment (DE) credit through Grand Canyon University, Colorado Christian University, Northwest Nazarene University, and Glendale Community College for our 10th grade through 12th grade students DE courses allow NCS students to earn both college and high school credit for the same course taught by a NCS teacher. University affiliation varies by course. DE cost ranges $200-$300 per class which is more affordable than regular college tuition and many NCS students graduate one to two semesters early from college due to their dual enrollment credits The grade the student earns in their NCS class will be recorded on the specific University’s transcript once students have registered and paid for the class through the University portal All DE credits are transferable to other universities but check individual university requirements or transferology com for exact transfer equivalencies
● For our potential 2026-2027 Dual Enrollment offerings click HERE.
● New for 2026 - 9th grade students in Honors Biology may apply for dual enrollment, more details to come in August.
SECONDARY GUIDANCE OFFICE - HIGH SCHOOL
Rising Seniors - Senior Communication and Summer College Planning: Rising Seniors, your senior year is a special milestone, and we are so excited to walk alongside you and your family as we celebrate all God is doing in your lives! The “Senior Communication” tab in the “Week at Glance” email will serve as your central hub for important information so be sure to check every Sunday and stay up to date on deadlines, events, and senior information. Key upcoming events include Senior Sunrise, College and
Career Fair, and an ACT retake in the Fall, along with several meaningful spring events such as Senior Chapel, Awards Night, Senior Trip, and Convocation Be on the lookout for deadlines related to cap and gown ordering, senior ads, yearbook photos, and senior slideshow submissions Please do not hesitate to reach out to Mrs Maszton at smaszton@ncsaz.org or Mrs. Kipp at mkipp@ncsaz.org.
We also highly encourage future seniors to utilize their Naviance College Tab during the summer during their college application journey. Naviance provides scholarship finders, college matches, and financial planning under the “Colleges” tab Please review the Future Senior presentation provided in May Questions may be directed to Mrs. Kipp at mkipp@ncsaz.org over the summer and Mrs. Enriquez at penriquez@ncsaz.org during the regular school semester.
● For our College Application Exploration FAQ’s click HERE.
● For College Representatives and Visit Information click HERE
Naviance: Naviance, our College and Career Planning Portal, is our online College and Career resource. Naviance is an integral component of NCS’s Pursuing His Purpose to help students find their path from a Biblical perspective rooted in Christ Depending on the grade level, students will investigate gifts, learning styles, skills, career interests, and college plans. Students may complete grade-specific assessments and review their results over the summer Students may also update their digital Four Year Plan and discuss courses with you at home Parents may reach out to Mrs Enriquez for a student result overview via email at penrique@ncsaz org
● For Student Log On: Go to clever.com - log in - click the blue Naviance tile to go directly to your Naviance account (see photo in above right corner)
● For 4 Year Plans: Click Courses - Click "Manage Course Plans" - Click 4 Year Plan in Progress.
● For Assessments: Click Planner - see "Tasks Assigned to Me" and scroll down for various assessments assigned to your grade.
● For the Student Overview instructions click HERE
Transcripts:
Northwest Christian High School has partnered with Parchment to provide secure online transcript ordering available 24/7. Most seniors have already created their account and know how to access it. Click HERE to place an order. If a student does not have a registered account, please reach out to Mrs. Dennis at jdennis@ncsaz org for a registration code
● Transcript orders will be filled within 1 to 2 business days.
● Within their Parchment account, students will only see their most recent transcript order
● Students will need to place a new order at the end of each semester after report card grades are released (typically the second week of January and the first week of June)
● If ordering ahead of time, Remember to select “HOLD FOR GRADES” at checkout. An updated transcript will be sent after semester grades are posted
● Current NCS high school students may order transcripts free of charge.
SECONDARY GUIDANCE OFFICE - HIGH SCHOOL
West-MEC Career and Technical Education Program: West-MEC, the Western Maricopa Education Center, is a public school district that partners with 15 public and 2 charter school districts to provide innovative Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs offered as elective courses on designated high school campuses. Through our partnership with West-MEC, students have the incredible opportunity to gain hands-on, professional experience in a wide variety of trade and certification programs while completing their high school education as a powerful way to explore and pursue the vocation God has placed on their heart.
Students typically apply in October of the year prior to the beginning of their preferred West-Mec course. For example, sophomores may apply for two-year programs or juniors may apply for one-year programs. Once accepted, we work closely with each student to accommodate their schedule so they can take full advantage of this opportunity. Students are able to use their West-Mec credits towards their elective graduation requirement. Visit the West-MEC website to explore the many programs available and prayerfully consider whether this path aligns with their student's God-given talents and calling Families taking advantage of ESA funding will be required to use ESA towards West-Mec rather than NCS tuition while enrolled in a West-Mec program. Please contact the Finance Office with questions regarding ESA and West-MEC.
Northwest Christian School
Calendar 2026-2027
AUGUST
5 MS & HS Registration
6 Elementary (K-5th) “Meet the Teacher” Day
Kindergarten - 2nd Grade “Back to School Night” Early Ed Orientation
10 School Begins- All Ground Including Early Ed
12-14 HS Camp 17 Online school begins
25 Elementary “Back to School Night” K-5 Picture Day
27 MS & HS “Back to School” Night
6-12 Picture Day
SEPTEMBER
4 No School - Teacher In-Service 7 Labor Day – No School 23-24 Preschool Picture Day OCTOBER
1 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences 11:00 a m Dismissal – K-12 No School Preschool, Mini Crusaders
2 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences No School for Elementary, Mini Cru, Preschool MS and HS – 11:00 a m Dismissal
5-9 Fall Break – No School
NOVEMBER
9 Veterans Day Observance- No School 23-24 Grandparents Days 25 Thanksgiving Vacation Begins –11:00 a.m. Dismissal
26-27 Thanksgiving Vacation DECEMBER
15 High School Final Exams – Full Day 16-17 High School Final Exams 18 Christmas Break Begins –11:00 a m Dismissal (All Grades)
JANUARY
School Resumes
Online School Resumes
No school - Teacher In-Service
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – No School
FEBRUARY 9 Open House & Curriculum Showcase 12 No School - Teacher In-Service All School Re-enrollment & Deposit Due 15 Presidents’ Day – No School
MARCH 11 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences 11:00 a.m. Dismissal – K-12 No School Preschool and Mini Crusaders 12 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher ConferencesNo School for Elementary, Mini Cru, Preschool MS and HS – 11:00 a.m. Dismissal 15-19 Spring Break 22 School Resumes 26 Good Friday- No School 29 Easter Monday - No School
30 No School - Teacher In-Service
17-21 Senior Final Exams 25 High School Final Exams – Full Day 27 11:00 a.m. Dismissal (Early Ed & HS) 28 Last Day of School – 11:00 a.m. Dismissal (All Grades) 8th Grade Promotion Senior Graduation – 7:00 p m
Northwest Christian School
Traditional Ground K-12 Tuition & Fees
2026-2027
Grade/Age Levels
Extended Care (K-8)
-
$7.50/hr. Pre-Scheduled Available 7:30am - 8:00am and 3:00pm - 5:30pm
$8.00/hr. Drop in Fees - Non-Refundable
Fee, due upon acceptance
Re-Enrollment Fee, by 2/13/26
- includes $150 course credit, $400 if not completed by 8/1/26
Re-Enrollment Fee, after 2/13/26
- includes $150 course credit, $450 if not completed by 8/1/26
*Students in all grade levels with late re-enrollment agreement submissions may be subject to a wait list
$300
Program Change Fee $50
Student Activity Fees
K-5 (non-refundable) $50 *Student Activity Fees will be charged to Tuition Management accounts
6-8 (non-refundable) $120 *Fees are due in full before the first day of school, 8/10/26
9-12 (non-refundable) $225
*Student Activity Fees are subject to late fees after 8/10/26
Multi-Student Discounts (Kindergarten - 12)
1st Child Regular price
2nd Child 10% to both students
3rd Child 18% to all three students
4th Child + A discounted tuition rate of $4,000 for Kindergarten and $7,000 for grades 1-12 will be given to the 4th and any additional K-12 students in the family Online/Flex students will receive an 18% discount on their tuition Early Education, Preschool, Homeschool, or Frameworks are not included in the multi-student discount.
Enrollment Refund Policy
Enrollment and re-enrollment fees are non-refundable for the 26-27 school year.
Tuition Payment Policy
• Tuition for Kindergarten through 11th Grade on the ground students will be divided into eleven monthly payments. The first payment is due Aug 1 and the last payment is due on or before June 1. Tuition for Seniors will be divided into 10 monthly payments. The final payment is due on or before May 1.
• Any payment received after the seventh of the month will be considered late and the account will be assessed a $50 late charge.
• If an account becomes more than 60 days past due, the student may not be allowed to attend class until the account is brought current.
• There is a $25 charge on all checks returned by the bank.
• Tuition for graduating seniors must be paid in full by May 15th in order for the student to participate in year end trips and graduation ceremonies. Additionally, the remaining family account must be paid through May
• If annual family tuition is paid in full on or before the first day of school (8/10/26), the family will receive a three percent discount.
• Parents must inform the finance office upon acceptance of an ESA contract in any quarter
01/09/2026
HIGH SCHOOL SUPPLY LISTS
9TH GRADE SUPPLIES
● Bible (Physical ESV)
● 1 package college ruled paper
● 1 3” binder or multiple 1” binders
● Tab dividers for organizing binders
● TI-84 Calculator for Math (required)
● Graph paper for Math
● Pens (black or blue and red)
● Pencils
● Highlighters (3 different colors)
● Colored pencils
● White-out or correction tape
● 1 package of thin markers
● 3 composition notebooks
● Clear Sheet Sleeves (at least 10)
● Sticky Notes (3x3) 100 sheets
● A journal
● Earbuds (Bluetooth/USB-C connection only)
● Suggested- Paper copy academic planner
11TH GRADE SUPPLIES
● Bible (Physical ESV)
● 1 package college ruled paper
● 1 3” binder or multiple 1” binders
● Tab dividers for organizing binders
● 3 sets of 5-tab dividers for English
● 1 1” binder for US History
● 1 set of 5-tab dividers for US History
● Colored Pencils (Crayola preferred) for US History
● TI-84 Calculator for Math (required)
● Graph Paper for Math
● Pens (black or blue and red)
● Pencils
● Highlighters (3 different colors)
● White-out or correction tape
● Black Ultra Fine Point Sharpie pen or gel pen
● Sticky Notes (1”x1”)
● Clear Sheet Sleeves (at least 10)
● Earbuds (Bluetooth/USB-C connection only)
10TH GRADE SUPPLIES
● Bible (Physical ESV)
● 1 package college ruled paper
● 1 3” binder or multiple 1” binders
● Tab dividers for organizing binders
● Pens (black or blue and red)
● Pencils
● Highlighters (3 different colors)
● Colored Pencils
● White-out or correction tape
● 3 packages index cards (3x5)
● Composition notebook for English
● A journal for Bible
● Earbuds (Bluetooth/USB-C connection only)
● TI-84 Calculator for Math (required)
● Graph Paper for Math
12TH GRADE SUPPLIES
● Bible (Physical ESV)
● 1 package college ruled paper
● 1 3” binder or multiple 1” binders
● Tab dividers for organizing binders
● 3 sets of 5-tab dividers for English
● TI-84 Calculator for Math (Required)
● Graph Paper for Math
● Pens (black or blue and red)
● Pencils
● Highlighters (3 different colors)
● White-out or correction tape
● 100- 3x5 index cards
● Clear Sheet Sleeves (at least 30)
● Earbuds (Bluetooth/USB-C connection only)
ART/DRAW/PAINT/CERAMICS CLASSES
● Blank-paged sketchbook
SPANISH I and II
● 2”binder
● Composition notebook
HIGH SCHOOL CAMP 2026
Introduction
High school camp is one of the most meaningful and anticipated traditions at Northwest Christian School Each year, it serves as the launching point for our school year, bringing students together for a time of spiritual growth, community building, and intentional focus on Christ
As the largest spiritual experience of the year for our high school students, camp plays a vital role in shaping the culture, relationships, and spiritual direction of our community During these three days, students step away from the distractions and routines of everyday life to deepen their faith, strengthen friendships, and engage with the spiritual theme that will guide our year.
This year's theme, Rooted in Christ, is based on Colossians 2:6-7: "Therefore, asyou receivedChristJesus the Lord, so walkin him, rootedandbuiltup in him andestablishedin the faith, justasyou were taught, abounding in thanksgiving." (ESV)
Our prayer is that students will leave camp with a deeper understanding of what it means to build their lives on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ. Just as healthy roots provide strength, stability, and nourishment for growth, we desire for our students to be firmly rooted in Christ as they navigate the opportunities and challenges of the coming year.
In addition to meaningful worship, biblical teaching, and small group discussions, camp provides valuable opportunities for students to connect with one another, build lasting relationships, and create memories that often define their high school experience These shared experiences help foster the strong sense of community that makes Northwest Christian such a special place
We remain deeply committed to this tradition because of the lasting impact we consistently see in the lives of our students Thank you for partnering with us as we invest in their spiritual growth and development
Below you will find important information to help your student prepare for camp. Please take a few moments to read the entire letter carefully.
High School Camp Forms & Action Items Checklist
Please read through the entire document and complete the following forms and tasks to ensure your student is fully prepared for camp. All links and additional details can be found at the bottom of this page. All items on the checklist are due by July 3rd.
1. Camp Permission Form
○ Complete the required Camp Permission Form in Blackbaud.
2 Over-the-Counter Medication Authorization
○ Verify that the Over-the-Counter Medication Form has been completed in Blackbaud
○ If not yet completed, please log in to Blackbaud and submit this form as soon as possible
3. Cabin Requests
○ Students should submit their Cabin Mate Requests as soon as possible.
4 Lost Canyon Camp Waiver
HIGH SCHOOL CAMP
○ Submit the required LostCanyon Camp Waiver form
5. Medical Dietary Restrictions
○ Complete the MedicalDietary Restriction Form if your student has any food allergies or dietary needs.
6. Parent Volunteer Form
○ If you are interested in volunteering for camp, please complete the ParentVolunteer Form.
7 Camp T-Shirt Size
○ Complete the form below with your t-shirt size
Need for Volunteers
It will take approximately 50 parent volunteers to effectively run the camp. If you are willing to volunteer for the Work Crew, please take a moment to fill out Camp Volunteer Form. Mrs. Thruston has graciously offered to help coordinate the volunteer efforts and will be in touch with more details soon. Should you need to register with Protect My Ministry to complete your background check, we will be in touch via email. Your support plays a vital role in the success of camp, and we truly appreciate your willingness to serve. If you have any questions you can reach out to Mrs. Thruston at jlthruston@yahoo.com.
Lifeguards
We are in need of 3 lifeguards for camp. If you are interested, please reach out to Mrs. Maszton at smaszton@ncsaz org for more information
Cost
The cost of camp is included in your tuition and fees so there is no additional cost
Dates and Times
There are no high school classes on August 12th - 14th Juniors and Seniors should meet in the Don Sanderson Gymnasium at 12:00 noon and Freshman and Sophomores at 1:00 PM on August 12th. We will return via bus to NCS on Friday, August 14th at approximately 1:00 PM.
Campus Parking
While we do not recommend leaving a vehicle on campus during camp, if necessary, please park it in the dirt lot.
Location and Phone Number for Camp
Lost Canyon Camp, 1450 S Perkinsville Road Williams, AZ 86046, 928-635-2900.
Transportation
Students will be transported to and from camp via charter buses
Cabin Time
Cabin time, held after each chapel session, provides a valuable opportunity for students to reflect on the message and discuss how it applies to their personal lives It also provides an opportunity for students and cabin leaders to build relationships that will carry them through the academic year
Rooming Sign Ups
Sign up for a gender and grade-specific cabin using your school email (New students can use a personal email) via the link below, ensuring you select the same cabin as friends if you wish to room together; you can swap later using the same link if space allows. Please sign up for rooming ASAP by clicking on this link: Rooming Request. If you have any questions, please reach out to Mr. Southall at bsouthall@ncsaz.org.
HIGH SCHOOL CAMP
Waiver
EVERYONE MUST FILL OUT THE WAIVER
Every camp participant must fill out the Guest Consent and Release Form This includes every student, volunteer, and NCS faculty member
NCS Permission Form
EVERYONE MUST FILL OUT THE WAIVER
The NCS permission form has been added to your Blackbaud profile. Please log on to your portal and fill that out.
Food Requests for Medical Needs
ONLY FILL OUT FOR MEDICAL DIETARY REQUESTS
If your student has any dietary restrictions due to a medical reason, please fill this form out Lost Canyon Special Diet Requests
T-Shirt Size
Please take a quick moment to fill out the form with your camp t-shirt size We’ll be handing out shirts when you check in on the day we leave for camp, and we want to make sure yours fits just right! Click HERE for the form.
Over The Counter Medication Form
Nurse Anna Johnson will accompany us to care for any student needs while at camp. We will utilize the Over-the-Counter Medication Form that you completed during the re-enrollment process. If you have not yet completed this form, please check the status of your student’s forms by logging in to Blackbaud and clicking on “Files and Forms.” There, you will be able to see if any forms are pending or view those that have already been completed. If you have any additional questions, please contact Nurse Destiney O’Conner at doconnor@ncsaz org
What to Bring
● Camp shirt - will be distributed on registration day, at no cost to the student
● Lost Canyon will provide a pillow, a pillow case, sheets, a blanket & towel (please feel free to bring your own)
● Flashlight
● Bible, notebook, pen
● Money for Snack Bar/ Coffee Shop at Lost Canyon
● Cell phones – We kindly request that you leave them in the cabin during worship sessions. Cell phones may be used during free time, but phone usage should be kept to a minimum.
● Theme Items
○ Class color attire and accessories for class competitions on Thursday afternoon (Senior-Pink, Junior-Blue, Sophomore-Yellow, Freshman-Green)
○ Neon colors and accessories for Thursday night dinner and dance
● Pants, jeans, and shorts (need to be modest)
● T-shirts should be school-appropriate- no inappropriate graphics, vulgar language, or political references; no tank tops, halter tops, or crop tops allowed
● Raingear - just in case
● Jacket or sweatshirt
● Athletic shoes, flip flops, water shoes - be sure to bring more than one pair of shoes in case they get wet
● Modest, one-piece swimsuit
○ Girls must wear shorts and a t-shirt over their swimsuit when walking around
○ Guys must also wear a t-shirt with swim shorts when walking around
● Make sure all clothing covers any tattoos, no visible piercings for guys, and ear piercings only for girls
HIGH SCHOOL CAMP
Do not bring
● Firecrackers, matches, lighters, etc
● Weapons of any sort
● Water balloons
● Any items that are not allowed on the NCS campus
Senior Luau
Seniors, get ready to kick off an unforgettable year! On Thursday night at camp, we will be hosting a special Senior Luau just for the Class of 2027 Bring your favorite Hawaiian attire and your swimsuit for a fun-filled time with your classmates. This will be a great opportunity to make memories and celebrate the start of your senior year together.
Evening and Overnight Expectations
To ensure the safety and well-being of all students during high school camp, we have established clear expectations for evening and overnight hours. Students are expected to be in their assigned cabins by 11:00 p.m. each night, with lights out by midnight. This time allows for much-needed rest after a full and meaningful days of activities, worship, and community building.
For the safety of everyone, students must remain in their cabins from 11:00 p.m. until 5:30 a.m. the following morning. These boundaries help us maintain a secure and peaceful environment for all campers.
Please note the following important guidelines:
● If a student is not present in their cabin during the Wednesday night bed check, they will be required to return to Phoenix early on Thursday morning The transportation will be the responsibility of the parents
● If a student is not present in their cabin during the Thursday night bed check, they will be permitted to return with the group on Friday as scheduled, but will receive an in-school suspension due to the seriousness of the infraction.
We ask for everyone’s cooperation in honoring these expectations as an important part of fostering a safe, respectful, and spiritually focused camp environment.
Conclusion
This time would not be possible without the incredible dedication of our staff, the generous support of parents, and the many volunteers who help behind the scenes From transportation and logistics to prayer and encouragement, we are so grateful for each person who helps bring this vision to life Please join me in prayer for the upcoming school year, that God would use this time to awaken hearts, deepen faith, and call our students to walk confidently in the purpose He has set before them
God bless you,
Samantha Maszton
Assistant Superintendent and
High School
Northwest Christian School 16401 N. 43rd Ave. | Phoenix, AZ 85053
Phone: 602-978-5134 | Ext: 503
Email: smaszton@ncsaz.org
Principal
Dear NCS Families,
Thank you for your partnership as we launched our Missions Learning program last year We are grateful for the support, encouragement, and feedback we received from families and staff as we implemented this important initiative.
At Northwest Christian School, we recognize that parents bear the primary, God-ordained responsibility for shaping the hearts, minds, and worldview of their children. It is our privilege to partner with families in that sacred calling as we fulfill our mission: "To provide a Bible-based program of instruction that enables students to develop a biblical worldview." While biblical worldview development certainly takes place in the classroom, it is also strengthened when students have opportunities to put their faith into action through worship, service, and involvement in a local Bible-believing church.
One theme has consistently emerged from student feedback over the years: students experience some of their greatest community and spiritual growth within their Community Groups. As a result, many of our school-sponsored service opportunities will take place through Community Groups, allowing students to serve alongside their peers while strengthening relationships and living out their faith.
Rather than designating specific school days for service projects, we will provide students with multiple opportunities throughout the year to earn Missions Learning hours through Community Groups, athletic team service projects, school-sponsored events, local churches, parachurch ministries, and other approved service opportunities. This model allows us to partner more effectively with the ministries we serve while providing students with a broader range of meaningful service experiences throughout the year By offering a variety of pathways to serve, our goal is to cast the net as broadly as possible while helping students develop a lifelong commitment to serving others and living out their faith.
Students may begin banking hours for the 2026-2027 school year the summer before the school year begins. Hours completed during the summer may be applied toward the upcoming school year. Please keep track of your hours and log them during the first week of school in your Pursuing His Purpose Course (keep reading to learn more about this class).
Church Service
Students are expected to attend and log 30 church services and include a summary of the sermon Church services may be completed through participation in a local church, such as general church services and/or youth group services.
Missions Learning
Students are expected to complete and log 15 Missions Learning hours. Missions Learning hours may be earned through a local church, a parachurch ministry, Community Group projects, school-sponsored opportunities, athletic team service projects, or other approved service experiences. Local church service experience examples include missions trips, Vacation Bible School, and serving in children’s ministry. Outside service experience examples include St Mary’s Food Bank and Feed My Starving Children Please contact Mrs Maszton (smaszton@ncsaz.org) or Mrs. Kipp at (mkipp@ncsaz.org) with any questions regarding appropriate service experiences.
Pursuing His Purpose (PHP)
Beginning this year, all ground and Flex students in grades 9-12 will participate in Pursuing His Purpose (PHP), a course designed to support students' spiritual formation, biblical worldview development, and preparation for life beyond high school.
Students will earn 0.25 credit per year toward high school graduation through successful completion of the course. The total credit required will vary by grade level to reflect the number of years a student has remaining in high school. Incoming 9th grade students, Class of 2030 and beyond, will take PHP for all four years, earning a total of 1 0 credit by graduation Incoming 10th grade students will take PHP for three years, earning a total of 0.75 credit. Incoming 11th grade students will take PHP for two years, earning a total of 0.5 credit. Incoming 12th grade students, who have only one year remaining, will take PHP for that year and earn a total of 0.25 credit In every case, students earn 0 25 credit for each year they are enrolled in the course
In addition to church attendance and Missions Learning requirements, PHP will include Test Prep, College/Career Prep activities, and instruction designed to help students prepare for future success Topics will include college and career readiness, ACT/SAT preparation, vocational exploration, and other opportunities that help students identify and pursue God's purpose for their lives.
Because PHP is a course for credit, students will receive a grade based on course requirements. The grading schedule will be as follows:
● Church Attendance will be reviewed and graded monthly
● Missions Learning Points will be graded monthly. Students will earn points throughout the month toward that month's grade If the monthly requirement is not met, students will have the following month to earn the missing points and recover the previous month's grade
● Missions Learning Hours will be reviewed and graded quarterly at the conclusion of each nine-week grading period
● Test Prep and College/Career Prep will be reviewed and graded monthly.
Pursuing His Purpose Course to Log All Church Service and Missions Learning Hours
All Church Service and Missions Learning resources, updates, and the MobileServe link will be available through the student's Pursuing His Purpose (PHP) Canvas course Students and parents should view PHP as the primary source for information, requirements, and updates throughout the year. Students will use the course to track Church Services, Missions Learning activities, and any guidance-related requirements connected to the class
Students will continue using the Mobile Serve platform to log and track their Missions Learning hours. Students should use their school email address to access their Mobile Serve account and record participation throughout the year Church service attendance will be logged in the student’s PHP course in Canvas Detailed instructions, approved opportunities, and frequently asked questions can be found HERE on the NCS website. Bible teachers and school staff will continue to assist students with questions regarding logging and tracking requirements
As we enter the new school year, our spiritual theme is Rooted in Christ, based on Colossians 2:6-7. Our prayer is that as students become more deeply rooted in Christ, their faith will naturally overflow into a life of service, compassion, and obedience to God's calling We believe some of the most significant spiritual growth happens when students step beyond themselves and intentionally serve those around them.
Thank you again for your partnership and support We look forward to seeing how God uses these opportunities to help students grow in their faith, develop a heart for service, and live out the love of Christ in their communities.
In
Christ,
Samantha Maszton Assistant Superintendent and High School Principal
SECONDARY DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS 2026/2027
Notes:
This is an excerpt of the dress code. The complete policy can be found in the Secondary Handbook.
Dress code issues related to modesty or judgment calls are at the discretion of faculty and administration. Modesty is the priority.
Students who are out-of-dress code will receive a minor violation and be required to change clothes with borrowed clothes from school or go home to change.
Please check guidelines on piercings and hair color before Monday
General Expectations of Dress Code
To be in compliance with dress code all students are required to have their NCS student ID accessible during the school day. A replacement fee will be required for lost cards.
1. All clothing must be neat, clean, and fit appropriately.
2. All outerwear (including jackets, sweaters, and sweatshirts) must be a solid color. Logos may be no larger than the size of a credit card. During out of dress, jackets, sweaters, or sweatshirts with rock bands, sexual innuendos, inappropriate messages or pictures, occult symbols, alcohol, drugs, or other questionable pictures that draw attention to self are not allowed
3. Footwear must have hard/puncture resistant soles. Sandals of any type meeting this description are acceptable Heels are to be no more than two inches
4. Hats may not be worn inside the buildings during school hours.
5. Hair is to be neat, clean, a natural color, and be kept out of the students' faces. No extreme styles allowed. Boys’ hair may not be over their eyebrows, earlobes or collars.
6. Male students must be clean-shaven, beards and mustaches are not allowed.
7. No piercings of any kind for boys; ear piercings only for girls. Clear plugs are not permitted as a substitute. No visible tattoos are allowed for boys or girls.
8. No extreme fashions are allowed.
9. Any clothing, book bags, notebooks, jewelry or other paraphernalia with rock bands, sexual innuendos, inappropriate messages or pictures, occult symbols, alcohol, drugs or other questionable pictures that draw attention to self are not allowed.
10.The school administration reserves the right to make modifications to the dress code for special occasions.
Parents have the responsibility for sending their children to school dressed and groomed properly.
SECONDARY DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS 2026/2027
Parents of students who violate the dress code will be notified Students who are out-of-dress code will receive a minor violation and be required to change clothes with borrowed clothes from school or go home to change.
Dress code issues related to modesty or judgment calls are at the discretion of faculty and administration Modesty is the priority
Specific Dress Code Requirements
Shirts – All Students
● Solid color or striped polo shirts are required
● Non-offensive logos are acceptable (logo must not exceed the size of a credit card).
● Any brand of solid or striped polo is acceptable.
● NCS/NC polos are also permissible (e g , striped golf polos)
● Polos may not be cropped
● Shirts must be long enough to cover the beltline when arms are raised above the head.
● Polos must have a finished hem and may not be cut.
● Polo shirts may be purchased from any store, as long as they meet the above requirements
● Students may layer shirts under the required polo
Pants – All Students
● Must be uniform style made of dress pant, twill/cotton, or corduroy material
● Not permitted: spandex, lycra, nylon, rayon, jeggings, jeans, denim, or blue jean material
● Acceptable colors: navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan, or brown.
● Capri pants and cargo shorts/pants are acceptable
● Overalls are not allowed.
Shorts – Girls
● Must be uniform style (not athletic)
● Minimum inseam: 5 inches and length must be past the fingertips when hands are fully extended at sides
● May be worn year-round.
● Must be loose-fitting and made of dress pant, twill/cotton, or corduroy material
● Not permitted materials: denim, spandex, lycra, nylon, rayon, mesh, flannel, velour, or terry-cloth
● Acceptable colors: solid navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan, or brown (white is not allowed).
Shorts – Guys
● Must be uniform style (not athletic)
● Minimum inseam: 7 inches.
● May be worn year-round
● Must be loose-fitting and made of dress pant, twill/cotton, or corduroy material.
● Not permitted materials: denim, spandex, lycra, nylon, rayon, mesh, flannel, velour, or terry-cloth.
● Acceptable colors: solid navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan, or brown (white is not allowed)
● No visible layering under shorts.
Skirts – Girls
● Must be uniform style and pleated
● Material: cotton or polyester.
● Athletic skirts are not permitted.
● Length: Must extend three inches past fingertips when arms are fully extended.
● Color: solid navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan, or brown (no white)
● No patterns or plaid.
● Opaque tights may be worn under skirts.
● Not allowed under skirts: sweatpants, pajama pants, leggings, or joggers
SECONDARY DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS 2026/2027
Outerwear, Sweatshirts, and Hoodies
● Solid-colored sweaters or sweatshirts may be worn over polos
● Sweatshirts with non-offensive logos are acceptable (logo must not exceed the size of a credit card)
● NCS logoed outerwear is permissible.
Friday Dress Code
● Students may wear the current year’s theme t-shirt with solid-colored jeans (no holes; frayed edges acceptable if clean cut).
● Any NCS or NC shirt may be worn with uniform bottoms.
Athletes on Game Day, Fine Arts, and Clubs
● May wear team/club-approved shirts with uniform bottoms only.
On-Campus Out-of-Dress Day Guidelines
● No tank tops.
● Shorts must have a minimum 5-inch inseam.
● No yoga pants or leggings.
● No holes in jeans, shorts, or skirts
● No band/performer shirts allowed except for Christian artists.
● Modesty is thegeneralrule
Spirit Week & Out-of-Dress Day Guidelines
● No tank tops.
● Shorts/Skirt length must have a minimum 5-inch inseam.
● Yoga pants/leggings may only be worn with shorts over top.
● No holes in any clothing
● Face paint and temporary hair color are allowed if it aligns with the dress theme (apply at home).
● No weapons (real or fake) allowed.
● Modesty is thegeneralrule.
Extra-Curricular Events - Including Athletic, Fine Arts, and Club Events
● Students are expected to practice modesty when attending school events.
● Students should wear shorts with 4 inch inseam for girls and 7 inch inseam for boys
● No midriff tops
HIGH SCHOOL LATE WORK POLICY
Students are expected to appear in class, on time, and prepared. Assignments are due on the day and hour in which the student has the class If the work is submitted after class, then the work will be considered lat
HS Daily Work/Homework
No late work accepted
HS Short Term Assignments/Labs (2-5 days)
1 Day late = 50 % off
2 Days late = no credit
HS Long Term Projects/Assignments (6 or more days)
No late work accepted
Each student will be given a minimum of two “oops passes” per class per semester. This will allow the student to turn in a formative assignment one day late for full credit with no penalty. The passes may be used on formative assignments only. Students may not use another student’s pass.
Students who are scheduled to be absent from classes due to athletics or field trips are required to turn in any work due on the determined day/time prior to their departure Additionally, these students must take all quizzes or tests that are due that day, or make arrangements with their teacher to take them on the next school day It is also the responsibility of the student to obtain all assignments that will be given on that day and due the next day in class.
When a student is absent, it is his/her responsibility to make-up for missed work. If work is incomplete due to an excuse.
If a student is absent the day before a long-term project is due, it is still due on the original assigned date by the end of the school day. Long-term assignments are to be turned in the day they are due. Students must make arrangements to have projects delivered to school. Students who are scheduled to be absent from classes due to athletics or field trips are required to turn in any work due on the determined day/time prior to their departure If a situation calls for an exception to this policy, the student must contact the teacher before the long-term project is due
iPAD ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
Thepolicies, procedures, andinformation within this documentapply to allNCS-ownediPads. Parents&StudentsmustelectronicallysigntheiPadAcceptableUseForminBlackbaudpriortotheissuanceofan iPad. Thestudentandoneparentmustsigntheformwhileloggedintotheirindividualaccounts. Annual TechnologyFeepaidwithinRegistrationDayFee.
The purpose of assigning an iPad and providing digital tools to every secondary student is to enhance learning and extend opportunities beyond the classroom. These resources are academic tools and should be used accordingly, adhering to the stated user responsibilities
User Responsibilities
● Charge it. Starteachday at100%.
● Keep the case on and without decorations. The caseprotects the screen andiPadandmustremain in goodcondition. Do notaddstickers or decorations to the case.
● Be responsible. Obtainpermission before taking video orpictures ofothers, including teachers. Useyour iPadas a toolduring class andfor entertainmentwhenpermitted
● Keep backgrounds. The lockscreen andbackgroundimages mustremain the theme image Focus may be usedto organize apps andlimitnotifications only.
● Handle with care. Don'tspin or drop, putheavy objects, food, or drinks on top, or subjectitto extreme coldor heat - like directsunlightor insideyour car.
● Don’t lose it. Know whereyour iPadis locatedandcontactHelpDesk@ncsaz.org ifitis misplaced.
● Don’t leave it unattended. Secureyour iPadinyour locker or a classroom when notin use.
● Don’t lend it. You shouldbe the only user ofyour iPadandyour accounts.
● Back it up. Follow iPadSetup Instructions to backupyour workin Google Drive andiCloud. Data may be lostatany moment
○ Malfunctions or technical issues are not acceptable excuses for failing to complete school work.
○ NCS is not responsible for work that is lost or corrupted on the iPad.
○ If a malfunction occurs, email HelpDesk@ncsaz org and your teacher with details about the error
● Troubleshoot You willneedto establishany internetconnections offcampus Be resourcefulandask for help when needed.
● Check your email. Regularly checkyour schoolemailanduse itto communicate aboutschoolbusiness.
Failure to uphold these expectations may result in a technology-specific minor. Please see the Student Handbook for policies regarding school-owned and personal technologies, submission of original work, minor and major infractions, and consequences of minors
Division Specific Policies Middle School
● iPad may not be used during break, lunch, chapel, and Impact Groups Store iPads in your locker when not in use.
● Hard iPad shield must be kept on iPad when not in use High School
● Case may be substituted for a compatible, hard case with an attached keyboard. iPad must be returned with the original case Standard damage fees will apply
Loaner iPads
In the event that a student forgets their iPad or brings it to class uncharged, a loaner iPad may be borrowed for the day. Loaners should be returned at the end of the day. A technology-specific minor will be recorded for each instance of a borrowed iPad, except when authorized by the technology team. Additional minors may be issued for failure to return the loaner iPad by the end of the day
iPAD ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
Lost, Damaged, or Stolen iPads
Do not attempt to repair or disassemble any part of the iPad or take it to be repaired by an outside agency In the event that the iPad is damaged, promptly email HelpDesk@ncsaz.org or visit the HelpDesk window adjacent to the office If your iPad is misplaced or stolen, contact HelpDesk, by email or in person, as soon as possible, so that the tech team can help to locate it
The following fee structure applies to any school-owned iPad that is either lost, damaged, or stolen:
1 Damaged iPad, student will pay
● $200 per occurrence
2 Lost or stolen iPad, student will pay
● $400 per occurrence If a plan for payment has not been established within a week, the Principal and Finance Office will be contacted
iPad and Internet Prohibited Uses
The following behaviors are prohibited by the school:
● Sharing personal information online or communicating in public chats or forums
● Signing up for accounts, including social media platforms, using your school information without school approval
● Using school computers, iPads, or accounts for unlawful activities.
● Bypassing filtering or restrictions implemented by school staff, including the use of “unblocked” sites or games.
● Taking credit for ideas that are not your own; instead, use proper citations to give credit If at any time you feel uncomfortable or something doesn’t seem right, contact a teacher, Principal, or tech team member for assistance.
Frequently Used Programs
Additional programs or accounts may be assigned by teachers in accordance with the Instructional Technology Permissions form
● Canvas (NCS Plus & NCS Online) Mostclasses willpostresources, lessons, assignments, and assessments in Canvas. Notability andApple file types cannotbe readin Canvas. Uploadworkas PDFs wheneverpossible.
● iCloud & Managed Apple ID. Your schoolemailisyour Apple IDwith200GBofiCloudstorage. This Apple IDcannotaccess iMessage, iTunes, or FindMy services
● Google Drive Useyour schoolemailto access Google apps, including Docs, Slides, &Sheets
● Notability Afavorite note-taking app Be sure to auto-backup to Google Drive using “Note”file format andto iCloud.
● Jamf Student, Parent, & Teacher. The Studentapp allowsyou to download “on-demand”apps andto updateyour apps onyour own time. The Teacher app allows teachers to share class-specific apps and to restrictyour iPad’s functionality during class Ifrestrictions failto clear, emailHelpDesk@ncsaz org
Parent/Guardian and Student Usage Agreement (SignElectronicallyviaBlackbaudpriortoRegistrationDay) We have read the Northwest Christian School iPad Acceptable Use Policy and have discussed the expectations We understand and support the student’s responsibility for abiding by each policy. We understand that access is being provided to the students for educational purposes and activity may be monitored. However, we also understand that it is impossible for the school to filter out all offensive and controversial materials We will not hold NCS (or any of its employees or officers) responsible for materials that students may come in contact with while on the Internet. We agree to the replacement costs as outlined in the lost, damaged, or stolen section of the iPad Acceptable Use Policy We agree that the iPad will be returned in good working condition with its original case when collected by NCS.
HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC OFFERINGS
Northwest Christian High School offers the following sports programs as extra-curricular activities for high school students.
Fall Sports:
● 3A Girls Volleyball (F, JV, Varsity)
● D-IV Girls Cheer (JV, Varsity)
● 4A Boys Football (JV, Varsity)
● D-III Girls Cross Country (Varsity)
● D-III Boys Cross Country (Varsity)
Winter Sports:
● D-IV Girls Cheer (JV, Varsity)
● 3A Girls Soccer (JV, Varsity)
● 3A Girls Basketball (JV, Varsity)
● 3A Boys Basketball (F, JV, Varsity)
● 3A Boys Soccer (JV, Varsity)
● D-IV Boys Wrestling (JV, Varsity)
Spring Sports:
● D-IV Girls Track (Varsity)
● D-IV Boys Track (Varsity)
● D-III Golf Coed (JV, Varsity)
● 3A Girls Softball (Varsity)
● D-III Girls Tennis (Varsity)
● D-II Girls Beach Volleyball (Varsity)
● 3A Boys Baseball (JV, Varsity)
● 3A Boys Volleyball (JV, Varsity)
Eligibility:
Grades are taken from gradebooks every week after the first four weeks of the start of the semester to determine the athlete’s eligibility. If the athlete is earning a “F” in any course, they are deemed ineligible, and he or she will not be permitted to play in games for one week. The grades will be reevaluated by the athletic department or principal at the beginning of every week The athlete may still participate in practice
HIGH SCHOOL COMMUNITY GROUPS
A key component in providing Northwest Christian high school students the opportunity to develop a biblical worldview is experiencing biblical community One of the primary values of the early church was their dedication to fellowship, or “living life together” (Acts 2:42). We believe that sustained life change happens most effectively within the context of intentional relationships- to grow spiritually, one must be connected relationally. One area of campus life that offers a place for students to connect and grow with one another is Community Groups.
Community Groups provide an environment where high school students can develop personal, intentional relationships within a core community. Groups are composed of students within the same grade and gender (a typical group size is 5-8 students). Freshmen and Sophomore groups are guided by Juniors and Seniors who have been trained and mentored in small group leadership; Junior and Senior groups are led by Northwest Christian faculty and staff Groups meet every Wednesday after chapel to discuss and apply biblical truth, pray together, and encourage one another. Opportunities also exist throughout the school year for groups to serve together in the community as well as enjoy friendly competition and activities with other groups.
Learning to invest in biblical relationships is an integral part of a high school student’s spiritual developmentwe believe Community Groups provide an outlet for students to connect relationally as they grow spiritually in following Jesus.
NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
The National Honor Society (NHS) is an organization for high schoolers that promotes leadership, service, character, and scholarship There are over one million students participating in NHS activities today, in all 50 states and territories of the United States.
The National Honor Society started in 1921 by an association of principals. It was the first honor society created across the country. At almost 100 years old, the NHS is one of the most well-known educational and leadership groups.
The purpose of the National Honor Society is to elevate students’ and schools’ academics, leadership, and community engagement. NHS benefits students, communities, and colleges. Colleges have a way of seeing the academic and service commitment of an applicant through his or her Membership
Scholarship
Per NCS guidelines, at a minimum, students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.65
Service
This involves voluntary contributions made by a student to the school or community, done without Compensation.
Leadership
Student leaders are those who are resourceful, good problem solvers, and idea contributors. Leadership experiences can be drawn from school or community activities while working with or for Others
Character
The student of good character is cooperative; demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability; shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others; and generally maintains a clean disciplinary record.
For more information, please see the NHS Advisor.
STUDENT PARKING
Annual Student Parking Fee: $60.00
Those students who drive to school must follow the following regulations:
1. Students must park in designated areas.
2. Students are not to enter cars during the school day without office approval.
3. Each student driver is to register their driver’s license number, car description, and license plate number with the school office at the beginning of the school year or when they begin to drive Students will be issued a parking permit, which must be displayed in their front windshield
4. Students are to observe a speed limit of 5 mph while on school properties, operate vehicles in a safe manner at all times, and obey all parking lot procedures and traffic flow.
Violations of the above regulations may result in the following:
● First offense - Warning
● Second offense- Saturday school
● Third offense- Loss of driving privileges for the remainder of that semester
Personal vehicles and contents are the responsibility of the owner. NCS is not responsible for any lost or stolen vehicles or contents of vehicles.
Student Name Grade
Driver’s License #
*Attachedphotocopy ofdriver’s license required
Auto Insurance Company
*Attachedphotocopy ofinsurance cardrequired
Description of vehicle:
Year Make Model
Color License Plate #
Parent/Guardian Permission
By signing below I acknowledge that I have read and understood the Parking Rules as outlined in the Student Handbook.
Parent’s Signature:
Student’s Signature:
Date:
Date:
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS NCS
ONLINE & FLEX NCS
Dear NCS Family,
One of the most meaningful traditions at Northwest Christian School takes place each year when our high school student council gathers to select the spiritual theme for the upcoming school year This student-led process reflects the heart of our school and provides an opportunity for students to prayerfully consider the message God may have for our community in the year ahead
Approximately 30 student leaders participate in the selection process. Prior to the meeting, each student prepares theme ideas supported by scripture and comes ready to offer up and discuss prospective ideas. Throughout the afternoon, students thoughtfully evaluate the various themes, considering not only their personal preferences but also what message would best encourage and challenge our entire school community.
As our students engage in these conversations, they recognize the significance of their responsibility. The theme they select will serve as a guiding focus throughout the year, shaping chapels, spiritual formation opportunities, and campus events. Following the selection, students begin designing banners, graphics, and apparel that will visually represent the theme across our campuses.
I am excited to share this year's spiritual theme: Rooted in Christ.
Colossians 2:6-7 (ESV)
"Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving "
Just as a tree draws strength, stability, and nourishment from its roots, our prayer is that every student, family, and staff member would be firmly rooted in Christ and continue to grow in faith throughout the coming year.
In a world that often encourages us to find our identity, security, and purpose in temporary things, this year's theme reminds us that true growth begins with a strong foundation When our lives are rooted in Christ, we are strengthened in our faith, equipped to withstand challenges, and able to grow into the people God has created us to be. As we remain grounded in His truth, we can confidently pursue His purpose for our lives and bear fruit that brings glory to Him
Year after year, we have seen God work through this student-led tradition in remarkable ways. We are excited to see how He will use this theme to shape our community, deepen our faith, and draw us closer to Him during the year ahead
Please join us in praying for our school as we begin this new year together, asking God to help us remain firmly rooted in Christ in all that we do.
We are looking forward to another great year at Northwest Christian School!
Sincerely,
Samantha Maszton Assistant Superintendent
Jessica Gake Online Assistant Principal
Northwest Christian School
Online Calendar 2026-2027
JANUARY
FEBRUARY
MARCH
MAY
17-21 Senior Final Exams 25-28 8th-11th Grade Final Exams 26-27 On Campus Half Days - High School Only*
On Campus Half Day - All Grades*
Day of School 8th Grade Promotion Senior Graduation – 7:00 p.m.
Northwest Christian School
K-12 Online School Tuition & Fees
2026-2027
Fee, after 2/13/26
- includes $150 course credit, $250 if not completed by 8/1/26 *Students in all grade levels with late re-enrollment agreement submissions may be subject to a wait list.
Enrollment and re-enrollment fees are non-refundable for the 26-27 school year.
Tuition Payment Policy
• Tuition for Kindergarten through 11th grade for full time online and flex students will be divided into ten monthly payments. The first payment is due August 1 and the last payment is due on or before June 1. Tuition for Seniors will be divided into 10 monthly payments. The final payment is due on or before May 1.
• Tuition for graduating seniors must be paid in full by May 15th in order for the student to participate in year end trips and graduation ceremonies. Additionally, the remaining family account must be paid through May
• Any payment received after the seventh of the month will be considered late and the account will be assessed a $50 late charge.
• If an account becomes more than 60 days past due, the student may not be allowed to attend class until the account is brought current.
• There is a $25 charge on all checks returned by the bank.
• If annual family tuition is paid in full on or before the first day of school (8/10/26), the family will receive a three percent discount.
• Parents must inform the finance office upon acceptance of an ESA contract in any quarter Updated 01/09/2026
NCS ONLINE DATES AND GENERAL INFORMATION
Calendar for the School Year 26/27 Online School Calendar
NCS Online Orientation
Monday, August 10th, will kick off the new school year with the NCS Online Orientation week. During this week, students will complete orientation activities in Canvas and attend live sessions with their teachers. Students will meet their teachers, get to know other online students, participate in community-building activities, and learn how to be a successful online student. The NCS Online orientation is the best way to set your family up for success for the school year.
More information will be coming out about the orientation as well as accessing your NCS Google account, Canvas, and textbooks so please watch your email
Important Dates in August
Date Event Who
August 5th MS/HS Flex Welcome Day
Last Name A-H 8:30-10:00
Last Name J-Q 10:00--11:30
Last Name R-Z 1:00
August 7th
Elementary Online Curriculum pick up* 9:00-12:00
Secondary (6-12th grades) Flex Students and Parents
Additional Details
Location: Room 310
Elementary Online Parents Location: 310
August 10th-15th NCS Online Orientation All Online and Flex Students Online - Canvas LMS
August 12th Elementary Flex Welcome Day ● Chapel, Info Session, and curriculum pick up* 8:00-10:30
August 17th First Day of Online Classes
Elementary Flex Students and Parents
Location: Gym and Room 310/311
All Online and Flex Students Online - Canvas LMS
*You will be able to pick up your books during this time. If you are not local and would prefer to have your books shipped, please fill out and submit this form https://forms gle/S1iVRyHNRaiR7umA7 If you have any questions, please reach out to Caitlin Moore cmoore@ncsaz org
FLEX INFORMATION
Health Office and Emergency Form
Earlier this year (during re-enrollment for returning students), you received a notification in Blackbaud to complete a Health Emergency Form for each of your students. You can check the status of your students forms by logging in, then clicking on “files and forms”. You will then be able to see if any forms are pending, or you can click to see completed forms Your student is not permitted to start the school year without an updated Health Emergency Form on file. If you have any questions please email the School Nurse, Destiney O’Connor, at doconnor@ncsaz.org.
The Health Office will have over-the-counter medications on hand for any student that has parental permission on file. Each student was assigned a medication permission form in their Blackbaud forms, and if permissions were given, the dose available to that student will be as prescribed on the bottle. Please provide any medications that your student might need, only if it is not listed on the form
If your child requires a prescription medication to be available at school, please plan to stop by the Health Office table on Registration Day or visit the Health Office directly to provide that medication and to ensure that all applicable forms are completed and on file
Supervision When Attending Extra-Curricular Activities on Campus
We look forward to all of the amazing extracurricular events on campus this year! We have lots of fun activities planned and we hope that you all will attend as many as you possibly can. As you attend, we ask that you keep your early education, elementary, and middle school children in sight when you are on campus. Please do not allow your children to be on campus unattended We absolutely love the community that comes from all of these amazing events and look forward to an amazing year!
Camp Information for HS Flex Students
Click HERE for the details. Please read this letter and complete all tasks on the checklist by July 3rd!
Missions Learning and Church Attendance for HS Students
Please click HERE for the details
Updated Secondary Dress Code for Flex Students
Few topics generate as much conversation within a school community as the dress code. We understand that personal expression and school expectations do not always align perfectly, which is why we believe it is important to communicate both the purpose and the philosophy behind our approach
Our goal is to maintain a consistent, business-casual standard that is developmentally appropriate for students and helps prepare them for future environments, whether in college, the workplace, or other professional settings We believe that learning to dress appropriately for different settings is an important life skill and one way we help students develop habits that will serve them well beyond their years at NCS.
As we prepared for the upcoming school year, we reviewed the dress code and made one minor clarification. In addition to the existing five-inch inseam requirement for shorts, shorts must also extend beyond the student's fingertips when standing naturally This additional guideline is intended to provide greater clarity and consistency when determining appropriate length.
As we begin the new school year, I respectfully ask for your partnership in supporting these expectations. Please take an active role in the purchase of school attire and encourage your student to approach the dress code with a spirit of cooperation and maturity. Consistency between home and school helps create an environment where students can focus on what matters most: growing academically, spiritually, and relationally.
We also ask for your support in reinforcing our expectations at extracurricular activities and school-sponsored events, including athletic contests Together, we can help ensure that our students represent themselves, their families, and Northwest Christian School in a manner that reflects our shared values.
Please review the updated dress code information HERE.
HS Parking Permit Details
Student drivers parking on campus are required to complete the Student Driver Parking Permission form and submit the annual $60 fee. A copy of both the student’s driver's license and vehicle insurance are needed, as well as a parent signature. Adhesive parking permit decals will be issued and are to be displayed in the front windshield of the vehicle at all times Students must park in grade level designated parking areas
Guidance Office Overview:
ONLINE GUIDANCE OFFICE INFORMATION
Northwest Christian High School is a school rich in tradition and history, committed to providing a Christ-centered, Biblically-based, and academically rigorous education. The NCS Guidance Department is dedicated to preparing students both spiritually and academically to face the challenges of their world, while partnering with families to help students discover their life's purpose in Christ. As students approach graduation, the Guidance Office helps them navigate the many resources available for college and career exploration, bridging the gap between high school and life beyond Families are encouraged to reach out to the Guidance Office with any questions regarding college and career planning, scholarships, testing, and scheduling.
● For our Guidance website click HERE.
● For an overview of NCS’s 7 year guidance plan click HERE
Pursuing His Purpose Course Standardized Test Prep - NEW FOR 2026-2027:
Beginning Fall 2026, students will engage in standardized test preparation modules in addition to service learning and church attendance increasing understanding that academic excellence and diligence are acts of worship and stewardship (Colossians 3:23–24). These modules are designed to sharpen critical thinking, build confidence, and maximize performance on college entrance exams such as the ACT. Strong test scores can expand access to scholarships, grants, and higher education opportunities, equipping students to pursue their God-given calling with both faithfulness and excellence. Please reach out to Mrs. Johnson with any questions at mejohnson@ncsaz.org.
High School Schedule Course Change Request Process:
Schedules will be released Wednesday, August 5th in Blackbaud While every effort was made to accommodate students’ course requests, this is not always possible. Course changes will be considered by request via email to Megan Johnson, mejohnson@ncsaz org Please note that summer school grades may not yet be recorded on transcripts until early August Course changes may not be made after Friday, August 21st, 2026
● For our High School Course Descriptions click HERE
● For our High School Virtual Elective Fair click HERE
Dual Enrollment:
NCS Online is proud to offer Dual Enrollment (DE) credit through Colorado Christian University and Northwest Nazarene University for our 10th grade through 12th grade students DE courses allow NCS students to earn both college and high school credit for the same course taught by a NCS teacher. University affiliation varies by course DE cost ranges $200-$300 per class which is more affordable than regular college tuition and many NCS students graduate one to two semesters early from college due to their dual enrollment credits The grade the student earns in their NCS class will be recorded on the specific University’s transcript once students have registered and paid for the class through the University portal All DE credits are transferable to other universities but check individual university requirements or transferology com for exact transfer equivalencies
● For our potential 2026-2027 Dual Enrollment offerings click HERE
● New for 2026 - 9th grade students in Honors Biology may apply for dual enrollment, more details to come in August.
Rising Seniors - Flex Senior Communication and Summer College Planning:
Rising Seniors, your senior year is a special milestone, and we are so excited to walk alongside you and your family as we celebrate all God is doing in your lives! The “Senior Communication” tab in the “Week at Glance” email will serve as your central hub for important information so be sure to check every Sunday and stay up to date on deadlines, events, and senior information
Key upcoming events include Senior Sunrise, College and Career Fair, and an ACT retake in the Fall, along with several meaningful spring events such as Senior Chapel, Awards Night, Senior Trip, and Convocation Be on the lookout for deadlines related to cap and gown ordering, senior ads, yearbook photos, and senior slideshow submissions. Please do not hesitate to reach out to Mrs. Gake at jgake@ncsaz.org or Mrs. Johnson at mejohnson@ncsaz org
We also highly encourage future seniors to utilize their Naviance College Tab during the summer during their college application journey. Naviance provides scholarship finders, college matches, and financial planning under the “Colleges” tab Please review the Future Senior presentation provided in May Questions may be directed to Mrs Johnson at mejohnson@ncsaz org
● For our College Application Exploration FAQ’s click HERE.
● For College Representatives and Visit Information click HERE.
Naviance:
Naviance, our College and Career Planning Portal, is our online College and Career resource Naviance is an integral component of NCS’s Pursuing His Purpose to help students find their path from a Biblical perspective rooted in Christ. Depending on the grade level, students will investigate gifts, learning styles, skills, career interests, and college plans Students may complete grade-specific assessments and review their results over the summer Students may also update their digital Four Year Plan and discuss courses with you at home Parents may reach out to Mrs. Johnson for a student result overview via email at mejohnson@ncsaz.org.
● For Student Log On: Go to clever com - log in - click the blue Naviance tile to go directly to your Naviance account (see photo in above right corner).
● For 4 Year Plans: Click Courses - Click "Manage Course Plans" - Click 4 Year Plan in Progress
● For Assessments: Click Planner - see "Tasks Assigned to Me" and scroll down for various assessments assigned to your grade
● For the Student Overview instructions click HERE
Transcripts:
Northwest Christian High School has partnered with Parchment to provide secure online transcript ordering available 24/7 Most seniors have already created their account and know how to access it Click HERE to place an order If a student does not have a registered account, please reach out to Mrs. Dennis at jdennis@ncsaz.org for a registration code.
● Transcript orders will be filled within 1 to 2 business days
● Within their Parchment account, students will only see their most recent transcript order.
● Students will need to place a new order at the end of each semester after report card grades are released (typically the second week of January and the first week of June).
● If ordering ahead of time, Remember to select “HOLD FOR GRADES” at checkout An updated transcript will be sent after semester grades are posted.
● Current NCS high school students may order transcripts free of charge
West-MEC Career and Technical Education Program: West-MEC, the Western Maricopa Education Center, is a public school district that partners with 15 public and 2 charter school districts to provide innovative Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs offered as elective courses on designated high school campuses Through our partnership with West-MEC, students have the incredible opportunity to gain hands-on, professional experience in a wide variety of trade and certification programs while completing their high school education as a powerful way to explore and pursue the vocation God has placed on their heart
Students typically apply in October of the year prior to the beginning of their preferred West-Mec course For example, sophomores may apply for two-year programs or juniors may apply for one-year programs Once accepted, we work closely with each student to accommodate their schedule so they can take full advantage of this opportunity Students are able to use their West-Mec credits towards their elective graduation requirement Visit the West-MEC website to explore the many programs available and prayerfully consider whether this path aligns with their student's God-given talents and calling. Families taking advantage of ESA funding will be required to use ESA towards West-Mec rather than NCS tuition while enrolled in a West-Mec program Please contact the Finance Office with questions regarding ESA and West-MEC
Naviance:
SECONDARY ONLINE GUIDANCE OFFICE - MIDDLE SCHOOL
Naviance, our College and Career Planning Portal, is an online resource used by students in grades 6–12 As an integral part of NCS’s Pursuing His Purpose program, Naviance helps students discover their God-given path through a Christ-centered, Biblical perspective. Depending on grade level, students explore their gifts, learning styles, skills, career interests, and college plans as they prepare for their future with purpose and direction Parents are encouraged to contact Mrs. Johnson (mejohnson@ncsaz.org) for a Student Results Overview or with any questions.
● For Student Log On: Go to clever.com and Login. Then, click the blue Naviance tile to go directly to your Naviance account.
● For Assessments: Click Planner – see "Tasks Assigned to Me" and scroll down for various assessments assigned to your grade.
● For the Student Overview instructions click HERE
Guidance Office Overview:
At Northwest Christian School, our middle school guidance program is designed to help students grow academically, spiritually, and personally as they begin discovering their identity and purpose in Christ Rooted in NCS’s tradition of providing a Christ-centered, Biblically-based, and academically rigorous education, the Guidance Department partners with families to equip students to face the challenges of their world with wisdom, confidence, and faith Through intentional guidance lessons, college and career exploration, and Biblical integration, students are encouraged to develop their God-given gifts while preparing for the transition to high school and life beyond. Throughout grades 6–8, students participate in activities such as career interest assessments, spiritual gifts exploration, high school planning, and college visits, all while learning to view the world through God’s Word Pursuing His Purpose lessons and activities will be provided through Google Meet sessions with Mrs. Johnson.
● For an overview of NCS’s 7 year Pursuing His Purpose guidance plan, click HERE.
Middle School Schedules/Electives: Schedules will be available in Blackbaud on Registration Day
All elective change requests must be submitted by 3:00 PM on Friday, August 14th by a parent or guardian via email to Mrs. Johnson (mejohnson@NCSaz.org). Please include the student’s full name, current grade level, the requested elective change, and the reason for the request.
NCS ELEMENTARY ONLINE AND ONLINE FLEX
Elementary Online & Online Flex Offerings
NCS Elementary Online and Online Flex provide students with the flexibility of learning from home while receiving daily teacher-led instruction.
Daily Live Instruction (Elementary Online & Flex)
All Elementary Online and Online Flex students are invited to participate in live teacher-led instruction via Zoom each school day in Math and Language Arts Lessons are interactive, engaging, and provide direct instruction in our two core academic subjects
Kindergarten
Math: 10:20-11:00 AM
Language Arts: 12-12:45 PM
3rd Grade
Math: 10:20-11:00 AM
Language Arts: 1:15-2:15
1st Grade 2nd Grade
Math: 9:35-10:15 AM
Language Arts: 1:00-1:45 PM
Math: 9:35-10:15 AM
Language Arts: 12-1 PM
4th Grade 5th Grade
Math: 9:35-10:15 AM
Math: 10:20-11:00 AM
Language Arts: 12-1 PM Language Arts: 1:15-2:15
Elementary Online Flex students attend these same live lessons when on campus with support from NCS educational aides.
Elementary Online Flex Schedule
Flex students may attend campus Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 8:00 AM–2:30 PM to join their daily live Zoom classes, participate in specials and chapel, complete independent work in the Flex classroom, enjoy lunch and recess, and build friendships with other online students
8:10-8:40
8:45-9:15
8:10-9:00
9:00-9:30 Recess
9:35-10:15
10:20-11:00
11:05-11:45 Lunch / Recess
12:00-1:00 K & 1 dismissal after lunch
1:15-2:15
2:30 Elementary Flex Dismissal
Additional Elementary Flex Opportunities
● Academics
○ Accelerated Reader (AR)
○ ACSI Speech Meet
○ ACSI Spelling Bee
○ Book Fair
○ Read Across America Week
○ Library check-out
○ Flex Field Trips
● Athletics/Clubs
○ After School Clubs
○ Field Day
○ Homecoming Events
○ Summer Athletic Camps
● Fine Arts
○ Private Instrument/Music Lessons (available with a fee)
● Spiritual Formation
○ Red Letter Reading Challenge
○ The Sutton Project
○ Service Projects
○ Weekly Chapels
● And more!
NCS FLEX SECONDARY STUDENT LOUNGE
Secondary Flex students may utilize the NCS Flex Student Lounge: a dedicated space on campus designed to support and serve our secondary (6th -12th grade) Flex students during their on-campus hours.
Whether your student is taking a class, participating in chapel, or working independently, the lounge provides a structured and welcoming environment tailored to the needs of NCS Flex students Please take a moment to review the current policies and procedures for the lounge, as well as our updated check-in system.
Flex Room Usage:
● As part of their NCS Flex tuition, secondary Flex students are allotted twenty-one hours per week in the Flex Student Lounge at no extra cost.
● The NCS Flex Student Lounge is open to students from 7:50 AM to 3:00 PM
● Participation in chapel is a requirement for students utilizing the NCS Flex Student Lounge during chapel time on Wednesdays
VisitU:
We will use VisitU for sign-in and sign-out to track student attendance and ensure a safe and secure campus environment Parents can download the VisitU Mobile app to monitor their child's status Parents may also add authorized pickups if desired
Drop-Off and Pick-Up:
● NCS Flex Students will enter at the main office and sign in via VisitU upon arrival and specify what they will be participating in while on campus (e.g., a class on campus, chapel, Flex room, lunch).
● Parents must come into the office to sign their child out if leaving before 3:00 PM If your Flex student is a driver with a current student parking pass, they may sign themselves out.
● At 3:00 PM, students will be automatically signed out and sent to the Ramadas for dismissal
● Parents may park in the designated NCS Flex drop-off and pick-up areas between 8:30AM and 2:00PM. Due to traffic, parents must park in the general parking lot spaces before 8:30AM and after 2:00 PM
On-Campus Policies:
NCS Flex Students are expected to abide by all campus policies outlined in the student handbook, including those related to dress code and discipline While on campus, students must remain in their designated class or the NCS Flex Student Lounge NCS Flex students may participate in grade-level breaks and lunch while on campus.
Supervision and Support:
The NCS Flex Student Lounge will be staffed for supervision and general assistance Our staff is here to support and encourage students, fostering a productive learning environment. While this support is valuable, it is meant to complement the role of a learning coach or tutoring services. If your child needs additional academic assistance, tutoring services are available and can be scheduled to meet their individual needs
Technology:
NCS Flex Students are encouraged to bring their own personal computer or tablet and will be added to the NCS Flex Student Lounge wifi. The NCS Flex Student Lounge is equipped with a limited number of iPads with keyboard cases, available on a first-come, first-served basis Students must follow on-campus policies regarding personal devices. Middle school students' cell phones must remain put away at all times. High school students may use personal cell phones during breaks or lunch. Smart watches are not permitted.
If parents need to get in touch with their child while on campus, please call the front office at 602-987-5134 or email Caitlin Moore at cmoore@ncsaz.org.
NCS ONLINE MINIMUM TECHNOLOGY REQUIREMENTS
NCS Online students should have a designated workspace and regular access to a desktop or laptop computer that meets the following minimum requirements:
Computer
For best performance, you should access the learning management system and other digital tools with a computer that supports the most recent browser versions. It is recommended to use a computer five years old or newer
● PC with Windows 10
● Mac with OS 10 14 or later
● Chromebook*
System Requirements
● 250 GB Hard Drive
● 4 GB RAM
● Updated Antivirus program
Web Browsers
It is recommended to use the current or first previous major release of one of the following web browsers Javascript must be enabled in order for Canvas to run
● Chrome
● Firefox
● Edge
● Safari on Mac
Internet
It is recommended to have a minimum Internet speed of 512kbps.
Additional Required Technology
● Printer - recommend for printing worksheets, resources, and learning coach scripts
● Headphones
● Webcam
● Microphone
● Second monitor or device to view any digital textbooks (recommended, not required)
● Scanner - either a scanner app on a mobile device or a physical scanner (recommended, not required)
*A Chromebook will work for NCS Online and Frameworks courses with the exception of Business Applications for high school students. Please research whether a Chromebook will be right for your student and family before purchasing one. Chromebooks are web-based only and do not have the capability to download and use non web-based applications.
K-5th Grade At Home
Supplies
● Computer - see Minimum Technology Requirements document
● Headphones
● 5 Spiral journals or composition notebooks
● Pencils
● Pink Pearl Eraser
● Crayons, colored pencils, or markers
● Glue sticks
● Index Cards
● White Board
● Dry Erase Markers
● Bible NASB or ESV
● Optional Dictionary/Thesaurus (primary or intermediate)
● Ruler with inches and centimeters
● Math manipulatives
○ Playing Cards
○ Dice
○ Counters
○ Unifix Cubes
○ Base Ten Blocks
○ Fraction Pie Pieces (intermediate)
● Science lab supplies - varies by quarter, common household items
K-5th Grade Flex Supplies
In addition to the supplies your child will use at home, we ask that each student brings a separate set of supplies to be kept in the Elementary Flex Classroom. These items will stay in the classroom for the duration of the year and will not travel back and forth Please label each item with your child’s first and last name to help us keep everything organized. This allows students to have what they need for learning and activities each time they are on campus.
● 1 pair of scissors (student size)
● Glue stick
● 1 box Crayola Crayons
● 1 box colored pencils
● 1 small box thin washable markers
● #2 pencils or mechanical (.7mm lead)
● 1 small sharpener with holder for shavings
● 1 set of earbuds or headphones (computer)
● Highlighter
● 1 pkg. 3X3 Post-It notes
● 1 zipper pouch or pencil box
6th - 8th Grade Supplies
● Computer - see Minimum Technology Requirements document
● Headphones
● Hard copy (paper) academic planner of your choice
● 1.5 inch binder
● 7 Plastic Two-Pocket Insertable Index Dividers
● 8 5 x 11 college-ruled filler paper with three-hole punch
● 1" binder - for language arts
● 8 plastic binder dividers - for language arts
● 2-3 Spiral notebooks - for social studies and electives
● 1 graph paper composition notebook - for math
● 1 pack 200 count of 3 x 5 notecards
● 3x3 sticky notes - for language arts
● Pens
● Pencils (refill lead if mechanical)
● Colored pencils
● Pink Pearl Eraser
● 1 pack of red pens/pencils for grading
● 2 highlighters
● 1 scissors
● 4 glue sticks
● Texas Instruments TI-30X IIS Scientific Calculator (All middle school students in Algebra or Geometry will need a TI-84 graphing calculator)
● Bible NASB or ESV
● Science lab supplies - varies by quarter, common household items
9th-12th Grade Supplies
● Computer - see Minimum Technology Requirements document
● Headphones
● Hard copy (paper) academic planner of your choice
● Several one-inch binders w/dividers (5)
● Several large 3-inch binders w/dividers (5)
● 4 packages loose leaf paper (wide or college-ruled)
● 3 composition notebooks
● Several one-subject spiral notebooks (Five Star brand preferred)
● A journal
● Graph paper
● 3 packages lined index cards (3x5)
● 1 package of 3 x 3 post-it note (100 sheet pad)
● Pens
● Pencils (refill lead if mechanical)
● Colored pencils
● Pink Pearl Eraser
● Highlighters
● One package of thin markers
● TI-84 Calculator (required)
● Bible (Physical ESV)
NCS ONLINE & FLEX ELEMENTARY DRESS CODE
NCS Online students are expected to adhere to the on-campus dress code when on-camera or submitting video or pictures for an assignment This includes proctored tests, virtual presentations, meetings with facilitators, and any other on-camera activities
Flex students attending any classes or events on-campus must abide by the on-campus dress code.
Elementary K - 5th On-Campus Dress Code
● Shorts, pants , & capris
○ Uniform or “Docker” style
○ Solid black, navy blue & tan (khaki) only
○ Dress pant twill/cotton or corduroy fabric only
○ Shorts length - past fingertips to the bend on the knees
○ Cargo shorts are permitted (no cargo pants)
○ No overalls or jeans
○ No brand restriction on cargo shorts
○ Leggings are not permitted
○ Fingertip length
● Jumpers, skirts and skorts
○ Uniform or “Docker” style
○ Straight or pleated
○ Solid black, navy blue, & tan (khaki) only
○ Dress pant twill/cotton, polyester, or corduroy fabric only
○ Longer than fingertip length
○ Girls are encouraged to wear shorts under jumpers and skirts for modesty
○ Polo dresses are acceptable, solid colors, following the polo shirt description
● Shirts
○ Button polo (no snaps, zippers, laces)
○ Short or long sleeves
○ Polo shirts can be layered
○ Any one solid color
○ Logos smaller than a credit card, and not contrary to our Christian testimony
○ Long enough to fully cover the stomach when arms are raised
● Footwear
○ Tennis/athletic shoes only (no wheels)
○ Shoes are to be laced tightly and tied securely
○ Slip on shoes must stay fastened on the child’s feet when walking
○ Preferred that children wear socks with their shoes
General
● Fit and Style: All clothing must be neat, clean, modest, and fit appropriately. Oversized or too-tight garments are not allowed.
● Outerwear: Sweaters, sweatshirts, and windbreakers must be one solid color or NCS apparel and worn over an approved uniform shirt Coats and jackets are not restricted to one solid color If there is a design, logo, picture, or word, it must be appropriate for a Christian school.
● Undergarments: All children must wear appropriate undergarments as a hygiene necessity.
● Hats/Caps: Hats/caps may be worn outside for protection from the sun. Hats/caps/hoods may not be worn in the classroom or any other school building. Hats are not restricted to one solid color. If there is a design, logo, picture, or word, it must be appropriate for a Christian school
● Makeup: We ask that our children not wear “makeup” or face glitter in the elementary program When our elementary students are worried about checking their makeup and reapplying it during the day, it becomes a distraction to learning.
● Jewelry: Jewelry should be kept to a minimum for boys and girls. Necklaces should be simple. Earrings for our girls should not “hang” but be solid posts. Boys are not to wear earrings to school.
● Smart watches are not allowed at school, just as cell phones are not allowed at school for elementary students
● Hair: Hair for both girls and boys is to be kept neat, clean, and a natural color Extreme styles are to be avoided. Hair for boys must be shorter than their collars and cut so that their eyebrows and at least part of their ears are visible. Hair for girls must allow the student to see without hair covering the eyes.
● Free Dress: During free dress days, students must comply with the basic dress code, including the length of shorts and skirts Jeans are allowed to be worn on “free-dress days ” No torn jeans may be worn during “free-dress days.” Appropriate and modest attire is expected at all times.
● The school administration reserves the right to make modifications to the dress code for special occasions such as jog-a-thon, field trips, spirit days, or other fun/reward situations.
● Any attire not described in this policy is not allowed
NCS ONLINE & FLEX SECONDARY DRESS CODE
NCS Online students are expected to adhere to the on-campus dress code when on-camera or submitting video or pictures for an assignment This includes proctored tests, virtual presentations, meetings with facilitators, and any other on-camera activities
Flex students attending any classes or events on-campus must abide by the on-campus dress code.
Secondary 6 - 12th On-Campus Dress Code Notes:
This is an excerpt of the dress code. The complete policy can be found in the Secondary Handbook.
Dress code issues related to modesty or judgment calls are at the discretion of faculty and administration.
Modesty is the priority
Students who are out-of-dress code will receive a minor violation and be required to change clothes with borrowed clothes from school or go home to change.
Please check guidelines on piercings and hair color before Monday.
General Expectations of Dress Code
To be in compliance with dress code all students are required to have their NCS student ID accessible during the school day. A replacement fee will be required for lost cards.
1. All clothing must be neat, clean, and fit appropriately.
2. All outerwear (including jackets, sweaters, and sweatshirts) must be a solid color. Logos may be no larger than the size of a credit card During out of dress, jackets, sweaters or sweatshirts with rock bands, sexual innuendos, inappropriate messages or pictures, occult symbols, alcohol, drugs or other questionable pictures that draw attention to self are not allowed.
3. Footwear must have hard/puncture resistant soles. Sandals of any type meeting this description are acceptable. Heels are to be no more than two inches.
4. Hats may not be worn inside the buildings during school hours.
5 Hair is to be neat, clean, a natural color, and be kept out of the students' faces No extreme styles allowed Boys’ hair may not be over their eyebrows, earlobes or collars
6. Male students must be clean-shaven, beards and mustaches are not allowed.
7. No piercings of any kind for boys; ear piercings only for girls. Clear plugs are not permitted as a substitute. No visible tattoos are allowed for boys or girls.
8. No extreme fashions are allowed.
9 Any clothing, book bags, notebooks, jewelry or other paraphernalia with rock bands, sexual innuendos, inappropriate messages or pictures, occult symbols, alcohol, drugs or other questionable pictures that draw attention to self are not allowed.
10.The school administration reserves the right to make modifications to the dress code for special occasions.
Parents have the responsibility for sending their children to school dressed and groomed properly
Parents of students who violate the dress code will be notified Students who are out-of-dress code will receive a minor violation and be required to change clothes with borrowed clothes from school or go home to change.
Dress code issues related to modesty or judgment calls are at the discretion of faculty and administration
Modesty is the priority.
Specific Dress Code Requirements (Secondary)
Shirts – All Students
● Solid color or striped polo shirts are required.
● Non-offensive logos are acceptable (logo must not exceed the size of a credit card)
● Any brand of solid or striped polo is acceptable
● NCS/NC polos are also permissible (e.g., striped golf polos).
● Polos may not be cropped.
● Shirts must be long enough to cover the beltline when arms are raised above the head
● Polos must have a finished hem and may not be cut
● Polo shirts may be purchased from any store, as long as they meet the above requirements.
● Students may layer shirts under the required polo
Pants
– All Students
● Must be uniform style made of dress pant, twill/cotton, or corduroy material.
● Not permitted: spandex, lycra, nylon, rayon, jeggings, jeans, denim, or blue jean material
● Acceptable colors: navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan, or brown.
● Capri pants and cargo shorts/pants are acceptable.
● Overalls are not allowed
Shorts – Girls
● Must be uniform style (not athletic).
● Minimum inseam: 5 inches and length must be past the fingertips when hands are fully extended at sides
● May be worn year-round
● Must be loose-fitting and made of dress pant, twill/cotton, or corduroy material.
● Not permitted materials: denim, spandex, lycra, nylon, rayon, mesh, flannel, velour, or terry-cloth
● Acceptable colors: solid navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan, or brown (white is not allowed).
Shorts – Guys
● Must be uniform style (not athletic)
● Minimum inseam: 7 inches.
● May be worn year-round
● Must be loose-fitting and made of dress pant, twill/cotton, or corduroy material.
● Not permitted materials: denim, spandex, lycra, nylon, rayon, mesh, flannel, velour, or terry-cloth.
● Acceptable colors: solid navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan, or brown (white is not allowed)
● No visible layering under shorts.
Skirts – Girls
● Must be uniform style and pleated
● Material: cotton or polyester.
● Athletic skirts are not permitted.
● Length: Must extend three inches past fingertips when arms are fully extended.
● Color: solid navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan, or brown (no white)
● No patterns or plaid.
● Opaque tights may be worn under skirts.
● Not allowed under skirts: sweatpants, pajama pants, leggings, or joggers
Outerwear, Sweatshirts, and Hoodies
● Solid-colored sweaters or sweatshirts may be worn over polos
● Sweatshirts with non-offensive logos are acceptable (logo must not exceed the size of a credit card).
● NCS logoed outerwear is permissible
Friday Dress Code
● Students may wear the current year’s theme t-shirt with solid-colored jeans (no holes; frayed edges acceptable if clean cut).
● Any NCS or NC shirt may be worn with uniform bottoms.
Athletes on Game Day, Fine Arts, and Clubs
● May wear team/club-approved shirts with uniform bottoms only.
On-Campus Out-of-Dress Day Guidelines
● No tank tops.
● Shorts must have a minimum 5-inch inseam.
● No yoga pants or leggings
● No holes in jeans, shorts, or skirts.
● No band/performer shirts allowed except for Christian artists.
● Modesty is thegeneralrule.
Spirit Week & Out-of-Dress Day Guidelines
● No tank tops.
● Shorts/Skirt length must have a minimum 5-inch inseam.
● Yoga pants/leggings may only be worn with shorts over top.
● No holes in any clothing
● Face paint and temporary hair color are allowed if it aligns with the dress theme (apply at home).
● No weapons (real or fake) allowed
● Modesty is thegeneralrule.
Extra-Curricular Events - Including Athletic, Fine Arts, and Club Events
● Students are expected to practice modesty when attending school events.
● Students should wear shorts with 4 inch inseam for girls and 7 inch inseam for boys
● No midriff tops
NCS ONLINE ATTENDANCE AND LATE WORK POLICY
NCS Elementary Online: Grades K-5
Every student will be assigned a Teacher who serves as the primary point of contact for the student and family throughout the school year The Teacher will host daily live Zoom classes for Math and Language Arts Students are strongly encouraged to attend both live sessions each day. During these sessions, the Teacher will provide instruction on the daily course content and assist students with assignments due that day in Canvas. This model allows students to participate in daily instruction and engage with their peers in a virtual classroom environment. Assignments in all subjects are due as scheduled in Canvas. To provide flexibility for families, assignments may be submitted through Sunday at 11:59 p m without penalty unless otherwise specified by the Teacher
If a student will be unable to submit work by the established deadline due to travel, illness, or other extenuating circumstances, parents should communicate directly with the student's assigned Teacher as soon as possible to discuss an appropriate plan for completing missed work.
Secondary: Grades 6-12
NCS Online is an asynchronous program that allows students the flexibility to complete schoolwork from anywhere in the world while receiving ongoing support from their teachers. Regular participation is essential for academic success within the program. Students are expected to complete coursework daily and submit assignments by the due dates established in Canvas. Teachers may offer scheduled live sessions for instruction, academic support, collaboration, and assessment opportunities. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in these sessions when available. Students are encouraged to work ahead to prepare for planned absences and communicate regularly with their teachers to remain on pace and maintain good academic standing.
Each assignment is assigned a due date in Canvas. Assignments not submitted by the posted due date will be recorded as a zero in the grade book. Students may submit the assignment through the following Sunday at 11:59 p.m. without penalty. After that time, the assignment will remain recorded as a zero unless alternative arrangements have been approved by the teacher.
Long-term projects are expected to be submitted by the assigned due date and time. If extenuating circumstances require an exception to this policy, the student or parent must contact the teacher before the project due date.
Exceptions
To excuse an unexpected absence (i e , illness, bereavement, etc ), a parent or guardian must email the student's teacher(s) Students will have the number of days they are absent plus one additional day to make up missed work Communication is essential in cases of unforeseen absences
Google Workspace for Education
Google Workspace for Education will allow access to Gmail, Google Drive, Google Apps, and Google Calendar. It is designed especially for schools with productivity and safety in mind. These accounts are managed by Northwest Christian School staff and NCS reserves the right to view these accounts without prior notice. Only authorized staff will have access to student accounts. As the parent of a student at Northwest Christian School, you are entitled to access to your child’s account.
Some of the key benefits of Google Workspace for Education are:
1. Increase in communication and collaboration between students and teachers.
2. Storage of student work will be on the Internet and will be accessible from anywhere in the world.
3. No software needed – students will be able to work on projects from home just as they would at school with no extra software needed, Google provides a word processor, spreadsheet, presentation software, and more!
4. A student’s Google account also provides simplified access to Canvas learning management system and Blackbaud student information system with one username and password
Additional Services
In addition to utilizing Google's Core services (Drive, Docs, Slides, and Sheets), students may also interact with additional Google services (YouTube, Maps) as well as other education-related platforms.
In collaboration with the Technology and Curriculum Directors, teachers may select new platforms to use with their students These products have been assessed for curricular alignment and age-appropriateness These services may store and share student data for instructional purposes, such as recording grades to a teacher's account
For more information regarding instructional technologies, including privacy policies and age-enforced restrictions, contact Allison Van Liew at avanliew@ncsaz org *
*This document is for information purposes only Parental permission will be given via a fillable version of this form in Blackbaud
HIGH SCHOOL CAMP 2026
Introduction
High school camp is one of the most meaningful and anticipated traditions at Northwest Christian School Each year, it serves as the launching point for our school year, bringing students together for a time of spiritual growth, community building, and intentional focus on Christ
As the largest spiritual experience of the year for our high school students, camp plays a vital role in shaping the culture, relationships, and spiritual direction of our community During these three days, students step away from the distractions and routines of everyday life to deepen their faith, strengthen friendships, and engage with the spiritual theme that will guide our year.
This year's theme, Rooted in Christ, is based on Colossians 2:6-7: "Therefore, asyou receivedChristJesus the Lord, so walkin him, rootedandbuiltup in him andestablishedin the faith, justasyou were taught, abounding in thanksgiving." (ESV)
Our prayer is that students will leave camp with a deeper understanding of what it means to build their lives on the firm foundation of Jesus Christ. Just as healthy roots provide strength, stability, and nourishment for growth, we desire for our students to be firmly rooted in Christ as they navigate the opportunities and challenges of the coming year.
In addition to meaningful worship, biblical teaching, and small group discussions, camp provides valuable opportunities for students to connect with one another, build lasting relationships, and create memories that often define their high school experience These shared experiences help foster the strong sense of community that makes Northwest Christian such a special place
We remain deeply committed to this tradition because of the lasting impact we consistently see in the lives of our students Thank you for partnering with us as we invest in their spiritual growth and development
Below you will find important information to help your student prepare for camp. Please take a few moments to read the entire letter carefully.
High School Camp Forms & Action Items Checklist
Please read through the entire document and complete the following forms and tasks to ensure your student is fully prepared for camp. All links and additional details can be found at the bottom of this page. All items on the checklist are due by July 3rd.
1. Camp Permission Form
○ Complete the required Camp Permission Form in Blackbaud.
2 Over-the-Counter Medication Authorization
○ Verify that the Over-the-Counter Medication Form has been completed in Blackbaud
○ If not yet completed, please log in to Blackbaud and submit this form as soon as possible
3. Cabin Requests
○ Students should submit their Cabin Mate Requests as soon as possible.
4 Lost Canyon Camp Waiver
HIGH SCHOOL CAMP
○ Submit the required LostCanyon Camp Waiver form
5. Medical Dietary Restrictions
○ Complete the MedicalDietary Restriction Form if your student has any food allergies or dietary needs.
6. Parent Volunteer Form
○ If you are interested in volunteering for camp, please complete the ParentVolunteer Form.
7 Camp T-Shirt Size
○ Complete the form below with your t-shirt size
Need for Volunteers
It will take approximately 50 parent volunteers to effectively run the camp. If you are willing to volunteer for the Work Crew, please take a moment to fill out Camp Volunteer Form. Mrs. Thruston has graciously offered to help coordinate the volunteer efforts and will be in touch with more details soon. Should you need to register with Protect My Ministry to complete your background check, we will be in touch via email. Your support plays a vital role in the success of camp, and we truly appreciate your willingness to serve. If you have any questions you can reach out to Mrs. Thruston at jlthruston@yahoo.com.
Lifeguards
We are in need of 3 lifeguards for camp. If you are interested, please reach out to Mrs. Maszton at smaszton@ncsaz org for more information
Cost
The cost of camp is included in your tuition and fees so there is no additional cost
Dates and Times
There are no high school classes on August 12th - 14th Juniors and Seniors should meet in the Don Sanderson Gymnasium at 12:00 noon and Freshman and Sophomores at 1:00 PM on August 12th. We will return via bus to NCS on Friday, August 14th at approximately 1:00 PM.
Campus Parking
While we do not recommend leaving a vehicle on campus during camp, if necessary, please park it in the dirt lot.
Location and Phone Number for Camp
Lost Canyon Camp, 1450 S Perkinsville Road Williams, AZ 86046, 928-635-2900.
Transportation
Students will be transported to and from camp via charter buses
Cabin Time
Cabin time, held after each chapel session, provides a valuable opportunity for students to reflect on the message and discuss how it applies to their personal lives It also provides an opportunity for students and cabin leaders to build relationships that will carry them through the academic year
Rooming Sign Ups
Sign up for a gender and grade-specific cabin using your school email (New students can use a personal email) via the link below, ensuring you select the same cabin as friends if you wish to room together; you can swap later using the same link if space allows. Please sign up for rooming ASAP by clicking on this link: Rooming Request. If you have any questions, please reach out to Mr. Southall at bsouthall@ncsaz.org.
HIGH SCHOOL CAMP
Waiver
EVERYONE MUST FILL OUT THE WAIVER
Every camp participant must fill out the Guest Consent and Release Form This includes every student, volunteer, and NCS faculty member
NCS Permission Form
EVERYONE MUST FILL OUT THE WAIVER
The NCS permission form has been added to your Blackbaud profile. Please log on to your portal and fill that out.
Food Requests for Medical Needs
ONLY FILL OUT FOR MEDICAL DIETARY REQUESTS
If your student has any dietary restrictions due to a medical reason, please fill this form out Lost Canyon Special Diet Requests
T-Shirt Size
Please take a quick moment to fill out the form with your camp t-shirt size We’ll be handing out shirts when you check in on the day we leave for camp, and we want to make sure yours fits just right! Click HERE for the form.
Over The Counter Medication Form
Nurse Anna Johnson will accompany us to care for any student needs while at camp. We will utilize the Over-the-Counter Medication Form that you completed during the re-enrollment process. If you have not yet completed this form, please check the status of your student’s forms by logging in to Blackbaud and clicking on “Files and Forms.” There, you will be able to see if any forms are pending or view those that have already been completed. If you have any additional questions, please contact Nurse Destiney O’Conner at doconnor@ncsaz org
What to Bring
● Camp shirt - will be distributed on registration day, at no cost to the student
● Lost Canyon will provide a pillow, a pillow case, sheets, a blanket & towel (please feel free to bring your own)
● Flashlight
● Bible, notebook, pen
● Money for Snack Bar/ Coffee Shop at Lost Canyon
● Cell phones – We kindly request that you leave them in the cabin during worship sessions. Cell phones may be used during free time, but phone usage should be kept to a minimum.
● Theme Items
○ Class color attire and accessories for class competitions on Thursday afternoon (Senior-Pink, Junior-Blue, Sophomore-Yellow, Freshman-Green)
○ Neon colors and accessories for Thursday night dinner and dance
● Pants, jeans, and shorts (need to be modest)
● T-shirts should be school-appropriate- no inappropriate graphics, vulgar language, or political references; no tank tops, halter tops, or crop tops allowed
● Raingear - just in case
● Jacket or sweatshirt
● Athletic shoes, flip flops, water shoes - be sure to bring more than one pair of shoes in case they get wet
● Modest, one-piece swimsuit
○ Girls must wear shorts and a t-shirt over their swimsuit when walking around
○ Guys must also wear a t-shirt with swim shorts when walking around
● Make sure all clothing covers any tattoos, no visible piercings for guys, and ear piercings only for girls
HIGH SCHOOL CAMP
Do not bring
● Firecrackers, matches, lighters, etc
● Weapons of any sort
● Water balloons
● Any items that are not allowed on the NCS campus
Senior Luau
Seniors, get ready to kick off an unforgettable year! On Thursday night at camp, we will be hosting a special Senior Luau just for the Class of 2027 Bring your favorite Hawaiian attire and your swimsuit for a fun-filled time with your classmates. This will be a great opportunity to make memories and celebrate the start of your senior year together.
Evening and Overnight Expectations
To ensure the safety and well-being of all students during high school camp, we have established clear expectations for evening and overnight hours. Students are expected to be in their assigned cabins by 11:00 p.m. each night, with lights out by midnight. This time allows for much-needed rest after a full and meaningful days of activities, worship, and community building.
For the safety of everyone, students must remain in their cabins from 11:00 p.m. until 5:30 a.m. the following morning. These boundaries help us maintain a secure and peaceful environment for all campers.
Please note the following important guidelines:
● If a student is not present in their cabin during the Wednesday night bed check, they will be required to return to Phoenix early on Thursday morning The transportation will be the responsibility of the parents
● If a student is not present in their cabin during the Thursday night bed check, they will be permitted to return with the group on Friday as scheduled, but will receive an in-school suspension due to the seriousness of the infraction.
We ask for everyone’s cooperation in honoring these expectations as an important part of fostering a safe, respectful, and spiritually focused camp environment.
Conclusion
This time would not be possible without the incredible dedication of our staff, the generous support of parents, and the many volunteers who help behind the scenes From transportation and logistics to prayer and encouragement, we are so grateful for each person who helps bring this vision to life Please join me in prayer for the upcoming school year, that God would use this time to awaken hearts, deepen faith, and call our students to walk confidently in the purpose He has set before them
God bless you,
Samantha Maszton
Assistant Superintendent and
High School
Northwest Christian School 16401 N. 43rd Ave. | Phoenix, AZ 85053
Phone: 602-978-5134 | Ext: 503
Email: smaszton@ncsaz.org
Principal
SECONDARY FLEX IMPACT AND COMMUNITY GROUPS
Middle School Impact Groups
The middle school years are incredibly important and formative. During this stage of life, students are beginning to ask big questions: Who am I? Where do I fit in? Do my choices matter? As they navigate these questions, meaningful relationships with caring adults can have a profound impact on their sense of identity, belonging, and purpose. I am so thankful that the middle school staff at NCS feel called to this age group and work tirelessly to connect with students and point them to Christ
At Northwest Christian School, we are blessed to partner with families who are raising their children in Christian homes and connecting them to the local church. We also recognize that the ages of 10–15 are especially significant years in a student's faith journey
One way we intentionally partner with families is through Impact Groups Each middle school student is part of a small group led by a staff member and made up of students in the same grade level. The simple goal of these groups is to cultivate meaningful relationships and a strong sense of belonging.
Every Wednesday following Chapel, Impact Groups gather across campus During this time, leaders may follow up on the chapel message, pray together, enjoy snacks, play Just Dance, Extreme Pictionary, or participate in other fun activities. While the activities vary from week to week, the purpose remains the same: connection. We want students to know they are known, valued, and cared for by trusted adults who are invested in their lives and faith.
It is a privilege to build community with our students and walk alongside them during these formative years. Through Impact Groups, we hope to create relationships that encourage students as they grow in their faith and deepen their relationship with Christ Please pray for our Impact Groups throughout the year and for the relationships that are formed within them.
High School Community Groups
A key component in providing Northwest Christian high school students the opportunity to develop a biblical worldview is experiencing biblical community. One of the primary values of the early church was their dedication to fellowship, or “living life together” (Acts 2:42) We believe that sustained life change happens most effectively within the context of intentional relationships- to grow spiritually, one must be connected relationally. One area of campus life that offers a place for students to connect and grow with one another is Community Groups
Community Groups provide an environment where high school students can develop personal, intentional relationships within a core community Groups are composed of students within the same grade and gender (a typical group size is 5-8 students). Freshmen and Sophomore groups are guided by Juniors and Seniors who have been trained and mentored in small group leadership; Junior and Senior groups are led by Northwest Christian faculty and staff Groups meet every Wednesday after chapel to discuss and apply biblical truth, pray together, and encourage one another. Opportunities also exist throughout the school year for groups to serve together in the community as well as enjoy friendly competition and activities with other groups.
Learning to invest in biblical relationships is an integral part of a high school student’s spiritual developmentwe believe Community Groups provide an outlet for students to connect relationally as they grow spiritually in following Jesus.
JUNIOR CRUSADERS SPORTS PROGRAM
The Junior Crusaders Sports Program provides NCS students from Pre-K through 8th grade the fantastic opportunity to pursue their passion for sports in a safe, competitive, fun, and Christ-centered environment. Students who sign up to be part of the Junior Crusaders Program will have the unique privilege and experience of representing their school as Crusaders in a competitive and fun athletic environment. Our Junior Crusader teams will play under the umbrella of CCV STARS and NYS.
Junior Crusaders Sports is an inclusive program. It welcomes all Pre-K through 8th-grade boys and girls from Northwest Christian School, regardless of ability or prior experience! All are encouraged to participate and enjoy the fun, the community-building, and great learning experiences that come from team sports!
Fall 2026 Sports Programs
Sport Grades Gender Registration
CCV Flag Football ccvstars.com
CCV Soccer ccvstars.com
Pre-K/K 1st/2nd 3rd/4th 5th/6th 7th/8th Boys & Girls Teams
Pre-K/K 1st/2nd 3rd/4th 5/6/7 Boys & Girls Teams
Online Registration: ccvstars com
Registration is open *Request NCS team
Online Registration: ccvstars com
Registration opens mid June *Request NCS team
ASAP Clubs Starting in September for 8 weeks Sign up link on Meet the Teacher Day
Online Registration: www.nysaz.com Girls can join a team. Contact Dyee@ncsaz.org if you would like to help coach a NCS team.
Please note: Registration Deadlines do exist, but registration closes when capacity is reached.
MIDDLE SCHOOL ATHLETIC OFFERINGS
Northwest Christian Middle School offers the following sports programs as extra-curricular activities for middle school students
Fall Sports:
● Girls Volleyball (6th, 7th, and 8th)
● Co Ed Soccer (7th and 8th)
● Boys Tackle Football (7th and 8th)
● Girls Cheer (7th and 8th)
● Boys Wrestling October - December (6th, 7th, and 8th)
● Girls Wrestling October - December (6th, 7th, and 8th)
Winter Sports:
● Girls Softball (7th and 8th)
● Girls Cross Country (6th, 7th, and 8th)
● Boys Cross Country (6th, 7th, and 8th)
● Boys Baseball (7th and 8th)
● Boys Volleyball (7th and 8th)
Spring Sports:
● Boys Basketball (6th, 7th, and 8th)
● Girls Basketball (6th, 7th, and 8th)
● Co Ed Golf (7th and 8th)
● Girls Cheer (7th and 8th)
● Girls Flag Flag Football (7th and 8th)
Sports Fee:
The Middle School sports fee is $85.00 per sport per season with the exception of football which is $135.00.
Football begins Monday August 10 with practice all 5 days (M - F) the first 2 weeks. Equipment hand out will be on Friday, August 8 from 3:15-4:30pm
7th and 8th Girls Volleyball Tryouts on August 12 & 13 will take place from 4:45-6:00pm If students need a place to wait after school until tryouts begin, room 120 (High School Tech Lab) will be open and available
Eligibility:
Grades are taken from gradebooks every week after the first four weeks of the start of the semester to determine the athlete’s eligibility. If the athlete is earning a “F” in any course, they are deemed ineligible, and he or she will not be permitted to play in games for one week. The grades will be reevaluated by the athletic department or principal at the beginning of every week. The athlete may still participate in practice.
HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC OFFERINGS
Northwest Christian High School offers the following sports programs as extra-curricular activities for high school students.
Fall Sports:
● 3A Girls Volleyball (F, JV, Varsity)
● D-IV Girls Cheer (JV, Varsity)
● 4A Boys Football (JV, Varsity)
● D-III Girls Cross Country (Varsity)
● D-III Boys Cross Country (Varsity)
Winter Sports:
● D-IV Girls Cheer (JV, Varsity)
● 3A Girls Soccer (JV, Varsity)
● 3A Girls Basketball (JV, Varsity)
● 3A Boys Basketball (F, JV, Varsity)
● 3A Boys Soccer (JV, Varsity)
● D-IV Boys Wrestling (JV, Varsity)
Spring Sports:
● D-IV Girls Track (Varsity)
● D-IV Boys Track (Varsity)
● D-III Golf Coed (JV, Varsity)
● 3A Girls Softball (Varsity)
● D-III Girls Tennis (Varsity)
● D-II Girls Beach Volleyball (Varsity)
● 3A Boys Baseball (JV, Varsity)
● 3A Boys Volleyball (JV, Varsity)
Eligibility:
Grades are taken from gradebooks every week after the first four weeks of the start of the semester to determine the athlete’s eligibility. If the athlete is earning a “F” in any course, they are deemed ineligible, and he or she will not be permitted to play in games for one week. The grades will be reevaluated by the athletic department or principal at the beginning of every week The athlete may still participate in practice
STUDENT PARKING
Annual Student Parking Fee: $60.00
Those students who drive to school must follow the following regulations:
1. Students must park in designated areas.
2. Students are not to enter cars during the school day without office approval.
3. Each student driver is to register their driver’s license number, car description, and license plate number with the school office at the beginning of the school year or when they begin to drive Students will be issued a parking permit, which must be displayed in their front windshield
4. Students are to observe a speed limit of 5 mph while on school properties, operate vehicles in a safe manner at all times, and obey all parking lot procedures and traffic flow.
Violations of the above regulations may result in the following:
● First offense - Warning
● Second offense- Saturday school
● Third offense- Loss of driving privileges for the remainder of that semester
Personal vehicles and contents are the responsibility of the owner. NCS is not responsible for any lost or stolen vehicles or contents of vehicles.
Student Name Grade
Driver’s License #
*Attachedphotocopy ofdriver’s license required
Auto Insurance Company
*Attachedphotocopy ofinsurance cardrequired
Description of vehicle:
Year Make Model
Color License Plate #
Parent/Guardian Permission
By signing below I acknowledge that I have read and understood the Parking Rules as outlined in the Student Handbook.
