There is a certain charm in an empty campus…for abouttwo weeks. After those two weeks, however, it starts to get a little lonely.
Actually, not a little lonely Alotta lonely
In short, we are ready to have you back.
And, for all the pages and pages of content that follow my opening letter within this, our annual “What’s Next?” packet, that is the overarching message: we are bothfiguratively andliterally ready to haveyou back! Right now, we have faculty and staff working feverishly towards preparing to make wonderful memories for your children as we move them forward academically, socially, spiritually, athletically, and artistically And in the mass of pages to follow, I trust you will get that sense of just that
Will the new classroom building be ready? As our construction adventure continues, with the completion of a new building that represents the latest chapter in our “Build Here, Build There” campus improvement campaign on the imminent horizon, I’m excited to be able to announce that this 12-classroom elementary building has an official name: the Ernest andBeverly Shortridge Classroom Building, named in honor of a benefactor who has been a tremendous partner to the many, many families that gave so generously to see this huge step forward in campus improvement And, as we have watched this building come together, tt has been the most pressing question of the summer: Willthe new classrooms be ready for August5th? As of this moment, this remains aquestion unanswered. In short, if everything goes as planned, there is a path to completion by July 29th, affording us a week to move-in and be ready for August 5th However, very rarely do things go as planned So, as the brand new 12-classroom building comes together we have prepared a “plan B” Unless a more immediate date circumstantially presses itself upon us sooner, we intend to make “the call” regarding the building’s opening during the week of July 15th, communicating that decision to faculty and families as soon as possible. Please be in prayer with us!
Annual spiritual emphasis theme Annually, our Student Council takes time during the summer to prayerfully determine the spiritual emphasis theme for the school year As we prepare for 2024/2025, on the heels of a summer spent in the wisdom literature, I truly appreciate both the theme and the scripture that they have chosen. “Living in Light”, based on John 8:12 connects our summer reading’s emphasis on our pursuit of Godly wisdom and living out the resulting Christian worldview John 8:12 states, “Again, Jesus spoke to them, saying, ‘I am the light of the world, whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life ” Once more, I’d ask you to pray that this theme and this remarkable passage find life on our campus in the coming year!
Is your summer homework done? As mentioned, our “Crusaders Charge into Summer 2024 Reading” campaign is centered around Scripture’s wisdom literature In particular, as this “What’s Next” packet hits your inbox, I am very excited to call our community to a reading of the 31 Proverbs over the 31 days of July If you never have, I would urge you to use this coming month to establish a daily time for your entire family around God’s word exploring the profound, life-affecting truths presented in Proverbs In addition to the weekly videos that are already arriving in your inbox, to assist you in this wisdom odyssey, we are providing two resources. The first is a wonderful journal/book called “31 Proverbs in 31 Days”, a guide of sorts that enables you to capture and discuss the things that you are reading and learning. *This book, as well as another “Solid Ground” by T W Lewis, is available for free in the school office ) The second is rooted in our school’s podcast, Kingdom Culture Conversations, where you will find a five-to-ten minute episode each day featuring different members of our faculty and staff reflecting on the very same Proverbs that you are reading!
Speaking of wisdom… As summer has progressed, it has been fun to see the number of families that are participating in our required Parent University online course. Just this morning, I received an email from a dad that said, “I just wanted to say thank you for the wisdom, coordination, and time taken in putting together the Parent University course! The school's dedication to a Biblical worldview is class-leading Further, there isn't a day as a family that we aren't discussing and or debating something Biblical.” I love this! And, I want the same for your family! Remember, as a part of the re-enrollment process, you have been invited to participate in the course by the start of the school year, August 5th To get started, please visit this site!
Are you reading for What’s Next? If you are still relishing in a sunny summer doldrum of relaxation and have not given the coming year a single thought, please set this digital packet aside and come back to it when you are ready! However, if your mind has already started churning in anticipation of the adventures in learning that lie ahead, simply turn the digital page and off you shall go…
Geoff Brown Superintendent Northwest Christian School (623)225-5573 (cell) (602)978-5134x505 (office) gbrown@ncsaz.org
All School
Early Education
Elementary
Middle School
High School
ALL SCHOOL NCS
Northwest Christian School Calendar 2024-2025
JANUARY
School Resumes 14 Future Freshman/New Student Night 17 No school - Teacher In-Service
20 Martin Luther King, Jr Day – No School
FEBRUARY
(2nd -5th) “Back to School Night”
7-11 Fall Break – No School
a.m. Dismissal (All Grades)
11 Open House & Curriculum Showcase 14 All School Re-enrollment & Deposit Due 14 No School - Teacher In-Service 17 Presidents’ Day – No School
6 EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher Conferences 11:00 a m Dismissal – K-12 No School Preschool and Mini Crusaders
7
EE and Elementary Parent/Teacher ConferencesNo School for Elementary, Mini Cru, Preschool MS and HS – 11:00 a.m. Dismissal
10-14 Spring Break
17 School Resumes
APRIL
18 Good Friday – No School 21 Easter Monday – No School
MAY 2 No School - Teacher In-Service
12-16 Senior Final Exams
20 High School Final Exams – Full Day 21-23 High School Final Exams –11:00 a.m. Dismissal (9th-11th Grade)
23 Last Day of School – 11:00 a.m. Dismissal (All Grades) 8th Grade Promotion Senior Graduation – 7:00 p.m.
Extended Care (K-8)
Northwest Christian School K-12 Tuition/Fee Schedule
2024-2025
$7.00/hr. Pre-Scheduled
$7.50/hr. Drop in
,
Fee, by 2/14/24
- includes $150 course credit, $400 if not completed by 8/1/24
Re-Enrollment Fee, after 2/14/24 $300
- includes $150 course credit, $450 if not completed by 8/1/24
*Students in all grade levels with late re-enrollment agreement submissions may be subject to a wait list
Registration Day and Activity Fees
K-5 (non-refundable) $50
*Registration Day and 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, 8/5/24
9-12 (non-refundable) $220 *Registration Day and Activity Fees are subject to late fees after 8/5/24
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, or Frameworks are not included in the multi-student discount.
Enrollment Refund Policy
Tuition
Kindergarten through
Aug 1 and the last payment is due on or before June 1.
• Any payment received after the seventh of the month will be considered late and the account will be assessed a $25 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 graduation ceremonies. Additionally the remaining family account must be paid through May
• If annual tuition is paid in full before the first day of school (8/5/24), the family will receive a three percent discount.
• Parents must inform the finance office upon acceptance of an ESA contract in any quarter
• ESA Families: For 2024-2025, tuition can ONLY be paid through the “pay vendor” option directly to the school. ESA is no longer allowing reimbursements for tuition.
Updated 6/17/2024
Northwest Christian School K-10
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Grade/Age Levels
Northwest Christian School Early Education Tuition/Fee Schedule
2024-2025
Mini Crusaders Half Day Option (8:30 am - 11:30 am) - Walkers & 2’s
Tuesday/Thursday $ 3,256 Not eligible $296 - Eleven months, August - June
Monday/Wednesday/Friday $ 4,378 Not eligible $398 - Eleven months, August - June
Monday through Friday $ 6,809 Not eligible $619 - Eleven months, August - June
Preschool Half Day Option (8:30 am - 11:30 am) - 3’s, 4’s/Pre-K
Tuesday/Thursday $ 3,575
Monday/Wednesday/Friday $ 4,818
Monday through Friday $ 7,491 $7,266
Preschool Full Day Option (8:30 am - 3:00 pm) - 3’s, 4’s/Pre-K
5,500
- Eleven months, August - June
- Eleven months, August - June
- Eleven months, August - June
- Eleven months, August - June Monday/Wednesday/Friday
7,898
- Eleven months, August - June Monday through Friday $10,340 $10,030
- Eleven months, August - June
Extended Care is available between the hours of 7:30 am - 8:30 am and 3:00 pm - 5:30 pm*
Pre-Scheduled Extended Care is $7.00/hr. Drop-in Extended Care is $7.50/hr.
*Mini Crusaders offers afternoon Extended care from 11:30 am - 5:30 pm
Fee, by 2/14/24
*Students in all grade levels with late re-enrollment agreement submissions may be subject to a wait list
Multi-Student Discounts (Preschool Only)
1st Child Regular price
2nd Child 10% to both students
3rd Child + 18% to all students
*Early Education/Preschool is not included in any K-12 discount
Enrollment Refund Policy
Enrollment and re-enrollment fees are non-refundable for the 24-25 school year
Tuition Payment Policy
• The Early Education program runs from August - May (10 months); however, the tuition for Early Education students is divided into eleven monthly payments. The first payment is due on August 1 and the last payment is due on or before June 1.
• Any payment received after the seventh of the month will be considered late and the account will be assessed a $25 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 tuition is paid in full before the first day of school (8/5/24), the family will receive a three percent discount.
• Mini Crusaders are not eligible for any discounts.
• ESA Families: For 24-25, tuition can ONLY be paid through the “pay vendor” option directly to the school. ESA is no longer allowing reimbursements for tuition.
Updated 6/17/24
TUITION ASSISTANCE
Dear NCS Family,
Due to the consistent efforts of NCS parents, Northwest Christian School continues to be the leading private, Christian school in the State with regard to both the number of tuition assistance awards received by students and in student annual award totals. Together, NCS has helped make Arizona a “parent choice, school choice” leader I am encouraged by the many praise reports each year and with the Universal Empowerment Scholarship (ESA), the impact and reach of tuition assistance has never been stronger. Your successful efforts to make a Christ-centered, private education an affordable reality are both an inspiration to others and a testimony of God’s perfect provision.
There are several ways to learn more about the various private school tuition assistance programs.
1) Consider self-scheduling a phone consultation: Schedule Tuition Assistance Consult. Additional appointment dates will be posted in August.
2) Review the 5-Step Action Plan available on the Tuition Assistance webpage on our website.
3) For K-12th grade students, consider applying for the Universal ESA. To learn more, go to: Azed.gov/esa The ESA cannot be combined with tax credits for the same student during the same fiscal year (July 1 - June 30).
4) Review the following links to learn more about the various tuition assistance options in Arizona: Ways to Afford A Christian Education, Tax Credits "At A Glance".
5) Review the AZTO Applicant Guide as well as the materials from other STO’s such as: ACSTO, APESF, IBE, PSTF123, and STO4KIDZ.
6) Consider creating a family landing page unique to your student(s). This tool allows you to promote the tax credit program easily to family, friends, and colleagues. See the samples available from AZTO, ACSTO, and STO4Kidz.
7) Low to medium income families may want to apply for Corporate Tax Credits: AAA, ALF, SCA, APSTO, ATC, PSTF123, and AZTO. The best time to apply is in the spring. Corporate awards cannot be combined with ESA. Each Corporate STO posts income guidelines.
If you have questions about the Arizona tuition assistance programs, login into your NCS portal and review the tuition assistance tile under the “Resource” tab. Resource links are updated throughout the year. You may also contact the tax credit or ESA organizations directly. If you are a current family with questions relating to your tuition account balance or if you would like to discuss a financial hardship, please contact the NCS finance office at 602-978-5134 ext. 507. Our team is happy to assist you.
Whether you are new to NCS or a long-time NCS family, there is a tuition assistance program for you You are a valued part of the NCS family and it is our privilege to partner with you as you seek to provide an affordable, Christ-centered education of excellence for your family.
Joyfully Serving Him,
Holli Barnes
Director of Admissions, Marketing and Development
Northwest Christian School
Phone: 602-978-5134 | Ext: 524
Email: hbarnes@ncsaz.org Web: www.NCSaz.org
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 24-25 school year, we want to remind our families that payments are due on the 1st of each month. A late fee of $25 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 23-24 school year will be applied to the 24-25 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 24-25 school year, the ENTIRE family tuition balance through May AND the Senior’s portion of June tuition, is due by May 15, 2025 to guarantee participation in the graduation ceremony. 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 tuition amount before August 5, 2024, a 3% discount of the full tuition amount will be applied at a later date. Please click here for the 24-25 tuition schedule, 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, however payments made with a checking account are free 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.
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 finance 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 MUST disburse funding to the school for tuition payments. For detailed instructions regarding how to disburse ESA funding, please see the ESA tab on the Resources board or email Monette Mason mmason@ncsaz org The Business Office has created a one page document to disburse ESA funding. This document may be obtained and personalized by parents through their Blackbaud portal on the Resources Board. The tuition accounts of families awaiting ESA funding are still subject to late fees.
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.
Activity fees will be added to your tuition account by August 1st Those fees vary by grade level and are due by AUGUST 5th. Late fees of $25 per month will be charged for unpaid activity fees. Activity fees will be collected on 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.
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 $120 00 per student There is a $2 75 fee each time you load your students account, 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 $2.75 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 $120.00 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 $120 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.
Ifyou have anyquestions, please contactDiane 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
Chef 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
FROM THE DESK OF INSTRUCTIONAL TECH COORDINATOR,
Elementary
We are in the second year of a multi-year development for the technology which supports instruction and learning in elementary classrooms. Our goal is to support teachers as they foster learning and community, enabling them to be responsive to the students within their classrooms and to integrate technology accordingly. One of the exciting developments this year is that each student from kindergarten through senior year will have an iPad allocated for his or her use For kindergarten through 4th grade, the iPads will have a streamlined set of apps and features to increase efficiency and productivity For 5th grade, the iPads are more personalized to increase responsibility and academic utility. All elementary iPads will be housed in the classrooms for protection and simplicity, while secondary iPads move with students to extend opportunities beyond campus. In the next year, we are continuing to expand our application of Canvas, Clever, and Blackbaud for both students and parents. If you have questions about any of these programs, feel free to email me at avanliew@ncsaz.org. If you need support at any time, email HelpDesk@ncsaz org and I or another member of our Tech Team will respond
Secondary
This year we have updated the iPad Acceptable Use Policy to include 3 different types of expectations and I want to highlight them so that you can partner with us in educating our students about responsible technology use. The first series includes behaviors that properly care for the iPad itself, such as not leaving it in the elements, not being careless with it, and preempting issues by backing up and saving data. The second group includes actions that support productivity in the classroom, such as maintaining the assigned theme image for the background, arriving to class with sufficient battery charge, and checking school email frequently The third set, labeled iPad and Internet Prohibited Uses, includes actions that we see as contradictory to good digital citizenship. These behaviors can have consequences at school, in the workplace, or in life. Additionally, the fee structure for damaged or lost iPads has been updated.
● The fee for damage is a constant $200 regardless if it is the first or fifth instance of damage
● The fee for a lost or stolen iPad is $400
Please take time to discuss this information with your student before you both sign the iPad Acceptable Use Policy in Blackbaud If you would like resources or more information, please email me
I appreciate your input as we continue to develop resources to equip our students and support their families Feel free to email me if you have any questions or feedback regarding the technologies utilized at Northwest Christian School.
To sign forms, access schedules, review school documents and announcements, and check posted grades, use the BlackbaudStudentPortalor BlackbaudParentPortalaccessible from the Login button at the top right of the school’s ncsaz.org website or directly at ncsaz.myschoolapp.com. This web-based portal allows users to easily toggle between their roles, if applicable (Student - Parent - Faculty - Alum) and to see the features relevant to that role
Blackbaud requires all users to login with Blackbaud ID, which is setup during the admissions process.
Parents
● Enter your primary email address listed in Blackbaud for your Blackbaud ID Click Next
○ If you see an option to enter your password, an error has occurred
● On the second login page, continue to login by entering the same email address and your chosen password or by using the Sign in with Google or Apple ID options.
○ If you forget your password, there is a link on this page where you may reset it.
Students
● Enter your school email address for your Blackbaud ID then click Next
● You will be routed to a second login page. Click the Sign in with Google button at the bottom.
○ If you need help resetting your password, contact HelpDesk@ncsaz.org and mention your first and last name and that you are requesting a password reset for your Google email
Troubleshooting Tips
● If having trouble with login using a Google account or Apple ID, verify that all similar accounts are signed out.
● If Blackbaud is not loading correctly, try using a different device, a different browser, or clear website history
● If you receive a specific error message, please take a picture and contact HelpDesk@ncsaz org
If you have any difficulty logging in, please contact the Tech Team at HelpDesk@ncsaz.org for additional support
Please note: At this time, there is not an app for the Blackbaud Portal; however, a mobile browser should enable necessary features of the website.
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
CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
TITLE (limit 1) EVENT
DETAILS
Monday Folders - SOLD
Football Magnets - SOLD Spirit Shirts - SOLD
Homecoming - Title
Informational table at event
Logo on all emails promoting the event
Logo on postcards sent to the neighborhood surrounding NCS regarding our fireworks and event
Organization mentioned/thanked by emcee during the football game Organization mentioned/thanked on social media (Facebook & Instagram)
Homecoming - Event (1 available)
Logo on all emails promoting the event
Organization logo included in exciting, top-secret game ball delivery Organization mentioned/thanked by emcee during the football game Organization mentioned/thanked on social media (Facebook & Instagram)
Alumni Tent
Informational table at event
Logo on all emails promoting the event Organization mentioned/thanked by emcee during the football game Organization mentioned/thanked on social media (Facebook & Instagram)
Sponsorship banner hung at Alumni Tent
Taco Tailgate
Organization logo on all emails about the event
Organization mentioned/thanked by emcee during the football game
Big Boys on Campus
Logo on all emails promoting BBOC each month
Organization mentioned/thanked on social media (Facebook & Instagram)
Sponsorship banner hung each week of the event
Auction - Title
Organization acknowledged as the "Title Sponsor" of event in program Organization logo on all emails promoting the event
Organization mentioned/thanked on social media (Facebook & Instagram)
Organization logo included in post-event video
Auction - Event
Multiple Opportunities Available - contact Holli Barnes for details if interested Jogathon
Logo on all emails promoting the event Organization mentioned/thanked on social media (Facebook & Instagram)
NXNW Film Festival - Title
Organization acknowledged as the "Title Sponsor" of event
Informational table at event
Organization logo on all emails promoting the event Organization mentioned/thanked on social media (Facebook & Instagram)
NXNW Film Festival - Event
Organization logo on all emails promoting the event Organization mentioned/thanked on social media (Facebook & Instagram)
Spring Musical - Title
Full-page ad in Spring Playbill
Informational table at event
Organization logo on all emails about the event Organization mentioned/thanked on social media (Facebook & Instagram)
Spring Musical - Event
Organization logo on all emails about the event
Organization will receive a quarter-page ad in the Spring Playbill
Staff Appreciation Week (4 days) Organization mentioned/thanked on social media (Facebook & Instagram)
Organization logo displayed in Staff Lounge Organization logo in daily email that goes out to all faculty & staff
Summer Stitching Organization logo on all emails about the event Organization mentioned/thanked on social media (Facebook & Instagram)
FUNDRAISING POLICY
Northwest Christian School Fundraising Policy
It is the policy of Northwest Christian School (NCS) that any group, club, or individual interested in fundraising on the NCS campus or through the NCS community must receive approval from the Development Office.
Interested parties must submit a completed Fundraising Request Form to the Development Office for approval at least two weeks prior to the event and/or sale A review will be made for approval or denial of each request
Each group, club, or individual is limited to one fundraiser per school year. Exceptions may be made for additional fundraisers at the discretion of the Development Office.
Fundraising activity/event signage and marketing materials (including digital materials) must be approved by the Development Office prior to use. Use of the school logo in material is permissible, pending approval of the Development Office.
Fundraising efforts that too closely match another fundraiser may be denied in the interest of both groups, clubs, or individuals fundraising success
Fundraising Request Forms are available atthe requestofthe DevelopmentOffice.
Contact Information
Joni Keith, Marketing & Development Coordinator 602 978 5134 x 128 jkeith@ncsaz.org
Holli Barnes, Director of Admissions, Marketing and Development 602 978 5134 x 524 hbarnes@ncsaz org
Tricia Mucklow, Business Manager 602 978 5134 x 507 tmucklow@ncsaz.org
NEWYEAR. NEWGEAR.
Northwest Christian’s
BIG BOYS ON CAMPUS
Annual BBOC Kick-off breakfast
7:00 a.m. - Friday, August 16th on the Crusader Legacy Plaza (weather permitting)
B.B.O.C. is the monthly prayer group for the men of NCS. Each month we will enjoy wonderful fellowship, a complementary breakfast, time in God’s word and a time of prayer for our students, faculty, families and churches.
Proudly sponsored by our friends at Arizona Christian University
If YOU are not praying for your child, WHO is?
For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them. - Matt 18:20
We are moms and grandmothers coming together every week to connect and pray for our children and NCS, impacting them for Christ.
First Meeting on August 14th
Wednesdays at 8:05 AM
Where: Stan Cook Building Room C-206 (2nd Floor)
(Up-to-date Information will be in NCS Week-At-A-Glance Emails)
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES!
Fall: AthleticGames
Clockatgames
MoneyGate
Concessions
CopyRoomParent
HomecomingCarnival
Setupandteardown
Runningbooths
MainOffice
MSAmazingRace
MSSpecialOlympics
JBSuttonThanksgiving
JBSuttonChristmasDrive
Spring: AthleticGames
Clockatgames
MoneyGate
Concessions
CopyRoomParent
SpeechMeet
FundraisingDinner andAuction
SpringMusical
StaffandFaculty
AppreciationWeek
MSImpactDay
MainOffice
NCS FAMILY
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Join Us!
The following events are an opportunity for both our new and existing families to connect and get "stitched" into the NCS family and meet others with children of the same age. Both parents and children are welcome to attend events and are responsible to arrange supervision as needed. If you plan to attend an event, please RSVP here!
EARLY EDUCATION & KINDERGARTEN
Friday, June 21, Early Ed, Peter Piper Pizza, 11:00am
Pizza and tokens will be available for purchase. Peter Piper Pizza on 75th Ave. and Bell Road.
Friday, July 19, Early Ed to Elementary, Uptown Jungle, 12:00noon
Uptown Jungle for Early Ed to Elementary. Uptown Jungle at Cactus and 75th Ave. Water and snacks will be available.
Details and RSVP here!
ELEMENTARY
Thursday, June 20, Elementary, Peter Piper Pizza, 11:00am
Pizza and tokens will be available for purchase. Peter Piper Pizza on 75th Ave and Bell Road.
Friday, July 19, Early Ed to Elementary, Uptown Jungle, 12:00noon
Uptown Jungle for Early Ed to Elementary. Uptown Jungle at Cactus and 75th Ave. Water and snacks will be available
Details and RSVP here!
MIDDLE SCHOOL & HIGH SCHOOL
Thursday, June 20, Adventure Cru to serve at St. Mary’s, 8:30am
Secondary students join Mr. G and serve the vulnerable at St. Mary’s food bank. We will enjoy lunch afterwards. Meet at NCS and students will be driven over via school van to St. Mary's. Pick up at NCS. Contact Chris Gardiner, cgardiner@ncsaz.org with questions!
Friday, June 21, Pickleball Tournament at The Pickleball Space
Join us for a Pickleball tournament at The Pickle Ball Space on Bell Rd. Address is 5665 W. Bell Rd. Glendale, AZ 85308. Meet and pick up your student at The Pickleball Space.
Friday, July 12, Indoor Paintball
Join the NCS Adventure Cru for indoor paintball on July 12th! Meet at NCS at 10:15am and return at 2:00pm. Drop off and pick up your student at NCS, we will take the school vans! $15 per person. Please fill out this waiver before attending. Contact Chris Gardiner, cgardiner@ncsaz.org with questions!
Monday, July 15, Adventure Cru H2WHOA at Lake Pleasant, 7-9:00pm
Join the adventure crew for our annual trip to the world’s largest floating water slide. Limited transportation to the lake will be provided, or you can meet us there. Please fill out the waiver before you come. Drop off and pick up your student at the Lake, please meet a bit before 7pm on the 15th! Find directions here. Address is 40202 N 87th Ave., Peoria, AZ 85383. The cost for this event will be $10 per student. Contact Chris Gardiner, cgardiner@ncsaz.org with questions!
Details and RSVP here!
HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS ONLY
Tuesday, July 30, New High School Girls Dinner at Sauce, 5:00pm
New High School girls to NCS are invited to join us at Sauce at Norterra for dinner. This will be a great time to meet some other new faces, as well as some current NCS high school girls. See you there!
Details and RSVP here!
NCS Middle & High School Clubs
There is a place for you in a Crusader Club! Below is just a sampling of the growing number of clubs that are available to Northwest Christian students. Each Monday, throughout the school year, check your email for dates, times, and details!
NC Amateur Radio Club
HAM radio has proven effective within public safety and emergency response. NCARC offers opportunities to explore different specialties within the ham radio world, making it a hub for those eager to grow in the field.
Wyldlife/YoungLife
The mission of YoungLife and Wyldlife is to introduce adolescents to Jesus Christ. Unlike any other club program in the valley, the NCS chapter of these clubs sees that within dynamic events!
NCS Missions
God has adventure planned for your life and this is the perfect chance to begin discovering it! NCS has numerous missions teams for you to join and to begin training for evangelism, discipleship, service, and, of course, adventure!,
Prayer Warriors
Prayer Warriors brings together high school students with a passion for prayer and the needs of their peers. The group offers weekly support and encouragement to others throughout the school. (HS)
NCS Law Club
Led by an alumni attorney, law club learns the Biblical foundation for law and participates in Mock Trial competitions. (HS)
Off the Page Book Club
The Come & See Creativity Journal
This club pulls together different resources to support high school students during difficult times. Led by an alumni, the club focuses on helping the hurting in our community.
Crusader Archery
For both amateurs and experts, Crusader Archery is meant to be both fun and competitive. Students will learn the basics and compete in tournaments. Expect more info mid-August.
Happy Hands ASL Club
Happy Hands represents a committed group of HS ASL students that are working to make a difference through service in the community of the deaf and hard-of -hearing.
Off the Page works through books of different genres and enjoys stimulating discussions as they savor complimentary lunches together. We have both MS and HS chapters!
Fellowship of Christian Athletes
High school coaches and athletes in pursuit of a deeper relationship with Christ come together once-a-month for fellowship and fun. (HS)
Students For Life
The NCS chapter of Students for Life rallies pro-life middle and high school students in practical support of two local crisis nurse-
NCS Student Ambassadors
The biggest club on campus works to meet the needs of campus visitors through hospitality and service. (HS)
High School Chess Club
“Knights of the Square Table” is for beginners and experts! The club enjoys free food, fellowship, and competitive play as we prepare for AIA matches with other schools.
Crusader eSports
eSports is now an official high school AIA sport. Join other varsity athletes as we take on other high schools around the state towards the first eSports state championship!
NCS Adventure Cru
Return of a legend! Adventure Cru leads high school students through amazing outdoor adventures across the state on a monthly basis. (MS and HS)
2024/2025 MISSION TRIPS!
MEXICO TO KIDS KINGDOM ORPHANGE
HIGH SCHOOL DATES: SEPT 26-29, DEC 14, APRIL 24-27
COST: 275
AGE REQUIREMENT: HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
TEAM CAPACITY: 35 for each trip
TEAM LEADER: MR. GARDINER
CrusadersGO
In keeping with the mission and purpose of NCS “to enable students to develop a Christian world view and prepare them to fulfill their God ordained role in the home, the church, their country, and the world.” We are excited to offer several trips during the school year to support that purpose. Here are the trips offered for 6-12 grades at NCS. To register please visit ncs.managedmissions.com/ourtrips
Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris Sonora has been a light in that community the last 14 years. In that time Arturo and Lilia Jimenez have had the charge of caring for the children in the DIF system as well as families in the surrounding community. NCS has been partnering with Kids Kingdom for the last 10 years and we have built a pretty fantastic relationship. There will be a parent info meeting on Aug 29 at 7:15 a.m. OR 3:15 p.m. in room 203
For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
MEXICO WITH ONE MISSION
DATE: October 17-20
COST: $375
AGE REQUIREMENT: CURRENT HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
TEAM CAPACITY: 24
TEAM LEADER: MR. SOUTHALL
1 Mission is a community development organization that gives people in poverty the opportunity to earn a house by serving their community. This team of students will travel to Rocky Point Mexico and work side by side with a family in the construction of their very own home. The home will be completed by the time the team leaves on Sunday. For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
MEXICO TO KIDS KINGDOM ORPHANGE
8TH GRADE DATES: Oct 31-Nov 3 OR FEB 6-9
COST: 275
AGE REQUIREMENT: CURRENT 8TH GRADERS
TEAM CAPACITY: 30
TEAM LEADER: MR. GARDINER
Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris Sonora has been a light in that community the last 14 years. In that time Arturo and Lilia Jimenez have had the charge of caring for the children in the DIF system as well as families in the surrounding community. NCS has been partnering with Kids Kingdom for the last 10 years and we have built a pretty fantastic relationship. There will be a parent info meeting on Aug 29 at 7:15 a.m. OR 3:15 p.m. in room 203
For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
SERVE THE CITY
DATE: MARCH 4-6
COST: $175
AGE REQUIREMENT: Current 6TH 8TH GRADE STUDENTS
TEAM CAPACITY: 26
TEAM LEADER: MR BURSON
We will be serving together at several local ministries in Phoenix such as St Vincent de Paul, St. Mary’s Food Bank, Phoenix Rescue Mission, Deep Within Rehab etc...We will be staying at a local church and make that our home base.
For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
FCA is a club on campus that is open and welcome to ALL high school students who want to participate.
On average, 50 students from all high school grades meet once a month for HUDDLES where we partake in: FOOD, FUN, & FELLOWSHIP!!
Some families open their homes to host a huddle and some events are held on campus.
Dodgeball, kickball, spikeball, cornhole, movie night, etc are just some of the things we do.
Keep an eye out each month for what FCA is doing.
At registration you can order an FCA shirt for $5. These shirts can be worn to school on the day of an FCA event along with school bottoms.
First event of the year: FCA DODGEBALL – FRIDAY AUGUST 16 6:30 PM
Over 100 students usually show up for dodgeball—fan favorite
FCA VALUES: Our relationships will demonstrate steadfast commitment to Jesus Christ and His Word Integrity, Serving, Teamwork and Excellence
NCS ANNUAL STUDENT TRIP OPPORTUNITIES
ELEMENTARY
3rd Grade - San Diego Floating Lab Trip - March 2025
Description: The annual elementary excursion to San Diego has become a family favorite each Spring Break Centered around time aboard a half-day harbor excursion, the Floating Lab allows students to see the wonders of God’s marine creations up close. The trip also affords families discounted opportunities to visit Sea World and the San Diego Zoo Costs are varied based on the activities and events each family chooses Additional information will become available to families at Back to School Night on August 13, 2024.
5th
Grade Camp
Description: Traveling to a sleep-away camp in northern Arizona, the fifth graders will enjoy a time of fellowship and learning that is centered around a distinctively Christian science-based curriculum. Students will spend two nights at the camp Though the final prices will be determined after some fundraising this fall, historically, the camp has been in the neighborhood of $150 per student Additional information will be provided to families on Back to School Night on August 13, 2024.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
6th through 8th Grades - Serve the City
Description: This is an amazing opportunity for all MS students to serve those in need in our local community! Students spend 2 nights and 3 days together as we serve and partner with various ministries around town to help our fellow community members who are in need.
8th Grade - Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris, Mexico Fall 2024 and Spring 2025
Description: This is a service opportunity for students to experience a culture that is different from ours The goal of the trip is to help give NCS students a new perspective of service in hopes of fostering a love for serving the poor With additional info to follow from 8th grade Bible, the cost of the trip varies but students will be involved in raising their support
8th Grade - End-of-the-Year trip
Description: It is a tradition for many years that 8th grade students end the school year with an exciting event (local or out of town)! Watch your email for more information.
HIGH SCHOOL
9th through 12th Grades - Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris, Mexico, Fall 2023 and Spring 2024
Description: This is a service opportunity for students to experience a culture that is different from ours. The goal of the trip is to help give NCS students a new perspective of service in hopes of fostering a love for serving the poor. With additional info to follow, the cost of the trip varies but students will be involved in raising their support. Additional information regarding the orphanage can be found at: www facebook com/imuriskidskingdom
9th through 12th Grades - Fine & Performing Arts Trip
Description: The every-other-year HS choir trip is an incredible opportunity for high school students to experience major cities around the world. This year’s trip will include musical instruction and performances that speckle the itinerary promoting skill development and a greater appreciation of the arts. For more information, please email Julie Dennis at jdennis@ncsaz org Don’t miss out on this one in a lifetime experience!
VOTEFORNCS!!
#1 Ranked Private School in AZ!!
VOTE FOR NCS as #1 Ranked Private School in AZ!
AZ Big Media released their Ranking Arizona 2024 "Best of Arizona Business" list, and NCS was ranked 1st among the Best Private Schools in Arizona for it’s 10th 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.
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS NCS
EARLY EDUCATION MINI CRUSADERSKINDERGARTEN NCS
FROM THE EARLY EDUCATION OFFICE
Hi NCS Early Ed Families!
Welcome to the Early Ed world 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 student’s 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 on the website 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.
Meet the Teacher: July 31 - August 2
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. At this time, you may pick up the Early Education Handbook, information for ASAP (After School Advantage Program), or other school related activities that might interest you The teacher will provide you with necessary information for the upcoming year. Families will be able to access online information via NCS Plus and Canvas during the school year through our school student information system Our staff will facilitate parents in understanding how to access this electronic reporting forum during this time.
FROM THE EARLY EDUCATION OFFICE
Important Dates in August
July 31 - August 2
August 1
August 5th
August 5th or 6th
Meet the Teacher (Mini Crusaders/Preschool)
Time TBD by teacher: Check letter to be received mid July Classrooms
Meet the Teacher (Kindergarten) 9:00 - 11:00 am (Open House) Gym
Early Education Parent Orientation (Mini Crusaders, Preschool, & Kindergarten)
5:00 - 6:00 pm (Mini Crusaders/ Preschool)
6:00 - 7:00 pm (Kindergarten)
Cook Center (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
Btarbutton@ncsaz org 602-978-5134
Grade/Age Levels
Northwest Christian School Early Education Tuition/Fee Schedule
2024-2025
Mini Crusaders Half Day Option (8:30 am - 11:30 am) - Walkers & 2’s
Tuesday/Thursday $ 3,256 Not eligible $296 - Eleven months, August - June
Monday/Wednesday/Friday $ 4,378 Not eligible $398 - Eleven months, August - June
Monday through Friday $ 6,809 Not eligible $619 - Eleven months, August - June
Preschool Half Day Option (8:30 am - 11:30 am) - 3’s, 4’s/Pre-K
Tuesday/Thursday $ 3,575
Monday/Wednesday/Friday $ 4,818
Monday through Friday $ 7,491 $7,266
Preschool Full Day Option (8:30 am - 3:00 pm) - 3’s, 4’s/Pre-K
5,500
- Eleven months, August - June
- Eleven months, August - June
- Eleven months, August - June
- Eleven months, August - June Monday/Wednesday/Friday
7,898
- Eleven months, August - June Monday through Friday $10,340 $10,030
- Eleven months, August - June
Extended Care is available between the hours of 7:30 am - 8:30 am and 3:00 pm - 5:30 pm*
Pre-Scheduled Extended Care is $7.00/hr. Drop-in Extended Care is $7.50/hr.
*Mini Crusaders offers afternoon Extended care from 11:30 am - 5:30 pm
Fee, by 2/14/24
*Students in all grade levels with late re-enrollment agreement submissions may be subject to a wait list
Multi-Student Discounts (Preschool Only)
1st Child Regular price
2nd Child 10% to both students
3rd Child + 18% to all students
*Early Education/Preschool is not included in any K-12 discount
Enrollment Refund Policy
Enrollment and re-enrollment fees are non-refundable for the 24-25 school year
Tuition Payment Policy
• The Early Education program runs from August - May (10 months); however, the tuition for Early Education students is divided into eleven monthly payments. The first payment is due on August 1 and the last payment is due on or before June 1.
• Any payment received after the seventh of the month will be considered late and the account will be assessed a $25 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 tuition is paid in full before the first day of school (8/5/24), the family will receive a three percent discount.
• Mini Crusaders are not eligible for any discounts.
• ESA Families: For 24-25, tuition can ONLY be paid through the “pay vendor” option directly to the school. ESA is no longer allowing reimbursements for tuition.
Updated 6/17/24
2024-2025 MINI CRUSADERS CALENDAR OF EVENTS
August
23 - No school: All day teacher in-service
September 2 - No school: Labor Day
20 - No school: All day teacher in-service
October
3, 4 - No school: Parent-Teacher conferences 7-11 - No school: Fall break
November
8 - No school: All day teacher in-service
11 - No school: Veterans Day
27 - Early Release - 11am
28, 29 - No school: Thanksgiving Break
December
20 - 11am school-wide dismissal
23 - Jan 3 - No school: Christmas break
January
6, 7 - School resumes
17 - Early Release - 11am 20 - No school: MLK day
31 - Snow Night - watch for details
February
14 - No school: All day teacher in-service
17 - No school: President’s Day
March 6, 7 - No school: Parent-Teacher conferences 10 - 14 - No school: Sall break
April
18 - No school: Good Friday 21 - No school: Easter Monday
May
22 - 11am dismissal
23 - 11am dismissal
2024-2025 PRESCHOOL CALENDAR OF EVENTS
AUGUST 1
5 & 6
Parent Orientation (5:30 pm)
School begins
23 No school - all day teacher in-service
SEPTEMBER 2 No school - Labor Day
20 25, 26 No school - all day teacher in-service Preschool Picture Day
OCTOBER 3 & 4 No school - Parent-Teacher Conferences 7-11 30, 31 No school - Fall Break
Dad’s Day - watch for details
NOVEMBER 8 11
25, 26
No school - all day teacher in-service
No school - Veterans Day
Grandparent’s Day - watch for details
27 11 am school wide dismissal- no EC after class 28, 29 No school - Thanksgiving Break
DECEMBER 20 11 am school wide dismissal
21- Jan 3 No school- Christmas Break
JANUARY 6, 7
School resumes
17 No school- all day teacher in-service
20 No school- Martin Luther King Day 31 Snow Night- watch for details
FEBRUARY 14 No school- all day teacher in-service
17 20, 21 No school- Presidents Day
Rodeo Day- watch for details
MARCH 6,7 No school- Parent-Teacher Conferences 10-14 No school- Spring Break
APRIL 18 No school - Good Friday
21 No school - Easter Monday
MAY 2 8, 9 22, 23
No school - all day teacher in-service
Mother’s Tea - watch for details
Mud Day - watch for details - 11 am dismissal
EARLY EDUCATION DRESS CODE
MINI CRUSADERS
Mini Crusaders will engage in a variety of sensory activities throughout the day Please send your child in clothing that you won’t mind getting dirty
PRESCHOOL
Preschoolers will engage in a variety of sensory activities throughout the day. Please send your child in clothing that you won’t mind getting dirty.
● Shirts may have designs as long as they are not contrary to our Christian testimony
● No overalls as the straps are difficult for preschoolers to manage alone and often end up wet
● Velcro Strap tennis shoes only and only those with closed heel, toe and no platforms or boots are allowed. Those children that can independently tie their shoes may wear shoes with laces. Even though teachers and aides frequently sweep the sidewalks, sand gets back on the walks very quickly. Only the completely closed tennis shoe provides the comfort and stability necessary to safely participate in both free play and our various perceptual motor activities.
● No dresses. Again, due to the perceptual motor activities, the girls need to have a freedom of movement that dresses do not allow. Dresses are allowed on photo or party days.
● No rompers unless your child is able to be fully independent with toileting procedures (undressing/dressing)
● Shirts of modest length.
KINDERGARTEN
● Shorts, slacks , & capris
○ Black, navy blue & tan only
○ Heavy cotton or twill fabric only
○ Shorts length - fingertips to the bend on the knees
○ Cargo shorts are permitted (not cargo pants)
○ No overalls or jeans
○ No brand restriction on cargo shorts
○ Leggings are not permitted
○ Fingertip length
● Jumpers, skirts and skorts
○ Black, navy blue, & tan only
○ Cotton fabric only (no jersey or polo shirt fabric)
○ Approved Dennis uniform or Educational Outfitters plaids (there are only two)
○ Fingertip length
○ Polo Dresses are acceptable, solid color.
● Shirts
○ Button polo (no snaps, zippers, laces)
○ Polo shirts can be layered
○ Any one solid color
○ Logos smaller than a credit card
● Footwear
○ Tennis/athletic shoes only (no wheels)
○ Shoes are to be laced tightly and tied securely
● Hats
○ May be worn outside for protection from the sun. They may not be worn in the classroom or any other school building. Any logo needs to be smaller than a credit card.
● Hair
○ Needs to be the students’ natural color.
○ When combed out, boys must show earlobes, collars and eyebrows.
○ No extreme hairstyles.
General: During “dress down” days students must comply with the basic dress code of covering necessities and length of shorts and skirts No torn pants/jeans/clothing may be worn during dress down days Most dress down days occur on Fridays
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 $7.00 an hour for your scheduled hours. Extended Care may be used on an occasional drop-in basis, depending on space availability, at $7.50 an hour. All requests for occasional care must be pre-approved on a daily basis through the Early Education office.
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 Procedure: 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.
EXTENDED CARE BILLING
Mini Crusader 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
Director of Early Education and Kindergarten Principal Bree Tarbutton
btarbutton@ncsaz org, 602-978-5134
STUDENT EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
Student Educational Services
Student Educational Services provides services to the students at NCS in a variety of capacities It is our desire to provide a Christian education to students and to serve those students whose needs can be met within the classrooms on campus. While we fully recognize that we cannot meet every child’s needs, we do seek to provide services to those children who can function in a traditional classroom with a modicum of support.
Please Note: When parents are concerned about their child’s progress, they should first speak with their child’s teacher and then a Student Study Team meeting (S.S.T.) may be scheduled with the Principal to assess next steps and develop a plan of action Referral to Student Educational Services or other services off campus are usually initiated through the SST meeting
The scope of SES has grown to meet the needs of students at every age and stage. Most of the time SES vendors work with families through direct pay from the family to the vendor. A few of the vendors work with us to provide consultative services for those times when a teacher needs more information as to how to help a child in class Each vendor is professionally and educationally qualified to provide the services described The vendors adhere to our Statement of Faith and are fingerprinted and certified The following provides a description of service provided through Student Educational Services
Outside Services
Southwest Human Development: NCS partners with SWHD to provide support for teachers in the early education program, Preschool and Mini Crusaders SWHD provides a coach that works with the classroom teacher Teachers are provided suggestions to increase student engagement and success in the early education classroom. No students are worked with directly, the teacher is provided the support to better understand student needs. Parents are supported through the education provided by the teacher.
AzEIP: NCS works with Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP) This statewide interagency system of supports and services helps us with children through age 3 with identified developmental delays or disabilities and their families. AzEIP partners with community providers like NCS to support families. Contact the Director of Early Education for information regarding the services mentioned above.
SES Facilitators and Services on the NCS Campus
Barton Tutoring: Barton Tutoring provides reading tutoring through the Barton Reading Program. This systematic and phonological approach to reading has a verifiable positive impact on students struggling to read in the first years of school Parents may use the materials for their child on campus, they can trade services with other parents for tutoring or parents can utilize a paid tutor The program must be used on campus as it is a site-licensed program. Tutors are required to participate in the training program. Students are tested at each level of Barton Tutoring prior to moving on to the next level. Contact Colleen Pfitzinger for more information. cpfitzinger@ncsaz.org.
Occupational Therapy: NCS partners with Cornerstone Pediatric in both consultative services as well as school-based services for children with identified needs. For questions about the process for involvement with school based OT at NCS please contact one of the principals Contact Cornerstone Pediatric for more information. kirsty.chris.stclair@gmail.com
STUDENT EDUCATIONAL SERVICES (CONTINUED)
Speech and Language: Building Blocks, Inc. provides speech and language assessment at NCS followed up with services on campus for those students with identified needs in the areas of articulation, receptive language, expressive language, and pragmatics The program is direct pay as the speech therapist works with students in the SES classroom during the school day For questions about the process for involvement with speech and language services at NCS please contact the elementary principal or early education director. Or, contact Building Blocks for more information at buildingblocksspeech@gmail.com
Student Tutors: Our high school students involved with the National Honor Society often agree to provide tutoring services for our elementary students at a very reasonable rate Please check with the elementary principal for a list of student tutors if you might be interested in services for your child. Contact our Guidance Services Director, Maggie Kipp, for more information. mkipp@ncsaz.org
DIBELS and PELI: NCS provides screening through DIBELS and PELI testing for students as we continue to provide excellence in reading education at NCS. These screenings provide information for teachers on growth in reading processes Contact your grade-specific administrator for more information.
Outside Assessment Services
School Districts: Northwest Christian School (NCS) works directly with the districts surrounding it (Washington Elementary School District and Glendale Union High School District) to provide academic testing as well as information on academic support to students with learning disabilities. Each district provides TAP meetings and follow-up testing. The relationships with the districts are positive. Districts only provide testing when the team (comprised of NCS personnel, district personnel, and the parents agree For more information contact the high school guidance counselor, Magge Kipp for the high school program with GUHSD. mkipp@ncsaz.org For the K – 8 program, please contact Melissa Burkert, the NCS liaison for testing services with WESD. mburkett@ncsaz.org
Academic Testing and Services: There are times when parents prefer to use direct pay or insurance to cover the cost of academic testing as the school and family work together to determine the scope of a child’s needs in school. NCS works with a number of off-site services that provide testing and information. Contact your grade specific administrator for a list of providers.
Counseling: NCS works with a variety of off campus counseling services For a list of services available at parent cost please contact your grade-specific administrator.
Vision Therapy: NCS works with Accent Eye Care to direct students with identified needs for vision therapy. This program provides screening and services for students who struggle with vision and tracking. Contact Accent Eye Care for more information Dr Aleta Gong 602-547-3255
KINDERGARTEN AND FIRST GRADE PARENT NIGHT 2024
Welcome to Kindergarten and First 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 Kindergarten and First Grade Information Night This meeting is scheduled on the Thursday evening before school begins for teachers to share about the Kinder and First Grade entry points into the school. The teachers will help you all begin the year with the information you will need for a strong and confident start to the school year.
On Thursday, August 1st there are two separate meetings for you to attend. We are asking that you attend both events as you prepare for Kindergarten and First Grade at NCS.
● Meet the Teacher is scheduled from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. This is intended for both you and your child to attend. Feel free to come any time during this time frame. This is an opportunity for your child to meet their teacher, enjoy the classroom, and see friends that will be in their classroom
● Kindergarten and First Grade Back to School Night is scheduled from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM. This evening is intended for parents only It will help parents prepare their children for the first day of school There are so many new things for our Kinder and First graders to know that we provide a time to educate parents about lunches, homework, curriculum, and even where students play and line up before the first day of school.
During the evening session on Thursday, August 1st at 6:00 PM your child’s teacher will cover important topics such as:
● How to help the first week be a special one for your child.
● Classroom management and general expectations for your child in class.
● Lunch ordering and what is available for lunch for your child
● Volunteering in the classroom.
● Homework expectations and Math Fact Mastery.
● Lalilo (1st Grade Only), RAZ Kids (Kindergarten Only) and IXL.
● Reading logs and grade level expectations.
● Red Word lists for reading
● Curricular expectations for the year
Please join us on these events to best support you and your child in the upcoming school year We look forward to talking with each of you Parents of Second through Fifth-grade students will have their Back to School/Curriculum Night on the evening of Tuesday, August 13h from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
In His Service,
The Kindergarten Team
Mrs Beiser
Miss Currier
Mrs Distler
Mrs. Getz
The First Grade Team
Ms Ciero
Mrs. Skinner
Mrs Trueblood
Ms. Goodyear
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, a missed sign-out fee of $7.50 will be added to your account.
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 Early Education and Kindergarten
Btarbutton@ncsaz.org 602-978-5134
Kindergarten Supply List 2024-2025
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)
An activity fee will be charged to tuition accounts and is due by the 1st day of school. Please log into Tuition Management to pay. Please bring all supplies on Meet the Teacher day. Please replenish all supplies as needed.
Last Names: A-L
1 - paper towel
1 - hand sanitizer
Last Names: M-Z
1 - box of tissues
1 - Clorox/Lysol wipes
ASAP CLUBS FOR FALL 2024
Specific days and number of weeks will be available via online registration the first week of August.
Jr. Robotics
The Bricks 4 Kidz Junior Robotics class offers all the fun of building with our B4K Lego® Bricks, plus the challenge of computer programming! WeDo 2.0, a drag-and-drop, icon based program is used to introduce kids to computer programming and robotics! Grades K-3
Chapel Cherubs
Unlike other clubs, this club meets sporadically throughout the year. This club is an opportunity for those kids who love to praise the Lord through movement and music! Mrs Barrett will enthusiastically lead this group of children to use the Holy Spirit's power and presence in singing praises to the Lord during four to five elementary school chapels, beginning in October-May. Dates are TBD. Grades 1-5
Crafting with Mrs. Burke
Each week students will get to create a craft and take it home. Grades 3-5
STEM with Ms. Pfitzinger
Encourages students to prepare for future success in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Fun activities include: Engineering Challenge, Chemical Reactions, Pipeline Challenge, Ice Cream, Tumbling Towers, Marble Races, Circuits, and more. Grades 3-5
Little Veterinarian School
Section I: After “adopting” their very own plush puppy, students will role-play the key responsibilities of a veterinarian, including how to properly perform a nose-to-tail exam. These future veterinarians will learn how to sew stitches, remove ticks, make healthy treats, and vaccinate their dog. Grades K-5
Little Doctor School
Section I: Basic anatomy, medical instruments and prepping for surgery. Through role-play and activities, students will learn the key responsibilities of a doctor and explore the heart, lungs, and digestion. Students will use real medical instruments (stethoscope, reflex hammer, and blood pressure cuff) and practice scrubbing, suturing, and tying knots like a real surgeon. Grades K-5
Running Club
This running club is designed to help our students become stronger, faster, and smarter runners. 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.
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
STEM Robotics by STEM LABS
Level 1: Robotics Fundamentals
Neotech mission is to build a global STEM labs platform for students to learn, build and express their ideas. Most importantly, learn it as fun. We focus on hands-on learning with real-world applications. The curriculum is built around 5 principles - Leadership, Teamwork, Problem-Solving, Creativity & Learning it as a Fun. Grades 3-6
Homework Club
Mrs. Roman and high school helpers will give students extra help with practicing spelling words, Bible verses, vocabulary, extra AR time and assistance with any worksheets or assignments. This is not individual tutoring. Grades 2-5
PE Play
If you love PE class, then this is the club for you! 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
Snazzy Snacks
Students will create kid-friendly recipes and enjoy eating what they create! Grades K-5
JUNIOR CRUSADERS SPORTS PROGRAM
The Junior Crusaders Sports Program provides NCS students from Pre-K through 8th grade with a fantastic opportunity to pursue their passion of sports in a safe, competitive, fun, andChrist-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.
The Junior Crusaders Sports Program is an inclusive program. It welcomes and encourages all Pre-K through 8th grade boys and girls from Northwest Christian, regardless of their ability and prior experience, to participate and enjoy the fun, community-building and great learning experiences that come from being involved in team sports.
Fall 2024 Sports Programs
Sport Grades Gender Registration
CCV Flag Football ccvstars.com
CCV Soccer ccvstars.com
CCV Basketball (Peoria Campus only) ccvstars.com
Jr. Crusaders Cross Country
NYS Volleyball
Pre-K/K 1st/2nd 3rd/4th 5th/6th Co-ed
Pre-K/K 1st/2nd 3rd/4th 5/6/7
Pre-K/K 1st/2nd 3rd/4th 5th/6th 7th/8th
Boys & Girls Teams
Boys & Girls Teams
Grades 2nd - 5th Co-ed
Grades 3rd/4th 5th/6th Girls
Online Registration: ccvstars com
Now- August 7th
*Request NCS team
Online Registration: ccvstars.com
Now- August 7th
*Request NCS team
Online Registration: ccvstars.com
Now- August 7th
*Request NCS team
ASAP Clubs
Starting in September for 8 weeks
Sign up link in August Week at a Glance
Online Registration: www.nysaz.com
*Request NCS team Now Open
ELEMENTARY DROP OFF AND PICK UP
We are often asked, “Will the new K-2 building and the location of our elementary office in the new building change our drop off and pick up routine?” The answer is, no. If you drop off or pick up, please continue to use the Drop Off and Pick Up Lane in the south parking lot as usual. We do not believe a change to the traffic flow will be advantageous. We ask that drivers do not utilize driving pathways for drop off and pick up. We also ask that NCS families respect church parking and curbs restricted for church use only.
Parents may choose to park and walk their children to class or they may choose to drive their children through the designated drop-off zone.
● The drop-off zone on the east side of the south parking lot will have our educational assistants help students get out of their cars and move safely to the elementary school area behind the fence We ask that parents follow the drive along the new K-2 building to drop off their children. As you proceed in these drop lanes, we ask that you do not back up or exit your vehicle and that you observe the 5-mile-an-hour speed limit to protect our children.
● If you use the drop-off/pick up zone, please do not stop in front of the new K-2 building to drop off or pick up your child This will only frustrate other drivers, and restrict the flow of traffic. Please continue to the regular drop-off/pick-up zone where our staff can safely receive your child.
● For the end-of-day pickup, we have partnered with PikMyKid. PikMyKid is an app that parents download on their phones. At the end of the day, when parents arrive on campus, the app is used to notify our educational assistants that the parent is on campus This helps to stage our students and decrease the time our parents and children must wait in the heat after school. More information will be available during the Meet the Teacher event on August 1st.
● All students expecting to be picked up in the pick up zone, must proceed to the covered basketball court immediately after school, to wait.
● Parents are asked to display a placard behind their front windshield to notify our staff of your family name for pick up. We will provide this placard to you at the Meet the Teacher event.
ELEMENTARY DROP OFF AND PICK UP (CONTINUED)
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.
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.
Eric Dowdle
Elementary Principal
Northwest Christian School
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 in recent decades, 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 has watched and learned from NCS over the years Now that I have completed my first year as Principal of the elementary program, my sense of gratitude has only increased To serve alongside the administrative team and our teachers is a great privilege, as 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 and their Biblical worldview!
In that process, our students will experience struggle, challenge, and success during a school year Let’s remind them to know 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 5, we are already excited to meet you and launch the beginning of our 2024-2025 school year. Mrs. Bree Tarbutton (Director of Early Education and Kindergarten), Mr. JT Barnes (1st-8th Assistant Principal), Mrs. Melissa Kovalesky, (our new Administrative Assistant),Mrs. Jessie Brown (our new Front Desk Assistant) and I are excited for the opportunity to greet you at our annual MeettheTeacher event on August 1st!
Meet the Teacher Event – Thursday, August 1st
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 our After School Advantage Program (ASAP) special classes and other services After you have received this information, please visit your child’s classroom and meet his/her teacher for the first time, and deliver those school supplies! We want to thank Mrs Kovalesky and Mrs. Brown for facilitating this extensive event for our elementary students and families! Some other quick reminders:
● Please know, that in just a few weeks from now (before school begins) we will send information on our new math pacing structure in grades 2-5. Please look for that email to arrive no later than mid-July.
● Please remember to watch the new Parent University Course. This explains the Biblical foundation and structures that fuel the NCS mission in the lives of our students. You will also receive a financial discount on the registration fee upon completion. Please watch here.
● Please see Mr Brown’s update on the construction of our new Kindergarten - 2nd Grade Building in the Letter from the Superintendent here!
● Please note that our elementary school office and administrative team are moving to the new building upon its completion. Mr. Dowdle, Mr. Barnes, Mrs. Kovalesky and Mrs. Brown will oversee the elementary program from that new office location. Students who arrive late to school or are picked up early will be signed in or signed out from that location. May the Lord bless you and your family this summer!
Eric Dowdle
KINDERGARTEN AND FIRST GRADE PARENT NIGHT 2024
Welcome to Kindergarten and First 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 Kindergarten and First Grade Information Night This meeting is scheduled on the Thursday evening before school begins for teachers to share about the Kinder and First Grade entry points into the school. The teachers will help you all begin the year with the information you will need for a strong and confident start to the school year.
On Thursday, August 1st there are two separate meetings for you to attend. We are asking that you attend both events as you prepare for Kindergarten and First Grade at NCS.
● Meet the Teacher is scheduled from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. This is intended for both you and your child to attend. Feel free to come any time during this time frame. This is an opportunity for your child to meet their teacher, enjoy the classroom, and see friends that will be in their classroom
● Kindergarten and First Grade Back to School Night is scheduled from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM. This evening is intended for parents only It will help parents prepare their children for the first day of school There are so many new things for our Kinder and First graders to know that we provide a time to educate parents about lunches, homework, curriculum, and even where students play and line up before the first day of school.
During the evening session on Thursday, August 1st at 6:00 PM your child’s teacher will cover important topics such as:
● How to help the first week be a special one for your child.
● Classroom management and general expectations for your child in class.
● Lunch ordering and what is available for lunch for your child
● Volunteering in the classroom.
● Homework expectations and Math Fact Mastery.
● Lalilo (1st Grade Only), RAZ Kids (Kindergarten Only) and IXL.
● Reading logs and grade level expectations.
● Red Word lists for reading
● Curricular expectations for the year
Please join us on these events to best support you and your child in the upcoming school year We look forward to talking with each of you Parents of Second through Fifth-grade students will have their Back to School/Curriculum Night on the evening of Tuesday, August 13h from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
In His Service,
The Kindergarten Team
Mrs Beiser
Miss Currier
Mrs Distler
Mrs. Getz
The First Grade Team
Ms Ciero
Mrs. Skinner
Mrs Trueblood
Ms. Goodyear
2ND - 5TH GRADE BACK TO SCHOOL
Second, 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 enjoy the purposes for which God made 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 13th at Back to School/Curriculum 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 following will provide the times for events that will be covered that evening.
5:00 PM
5:30 PM
August 13th
Elementary Back to School Night for Parents of 2nd through 5th grade Students
Kinder and First Grade Parents met the evening of Meet the Teacher on Aug 1st.
6:00 - 6:45 PM
3rd Grade Floating Lab Information Band Room
● AR info in the Library for NEW 3rd - 5th graders
● Specials Teachers Available
PE and Tech in Tech Lab in Tech Lab Room #310
Spanish, Art and Music in Art Room #311
Session One: Curriculum Night in the Classrooms: Grades 2nd – 5th 6:50 PM
Session Two: Curriculum Night in the Classrooms Grades 2nd – 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!
STUDENT EDUCATIONAL SERVICES
Student Educational Services
Student Educational Services provides services to the students at NCS in a variety of capacities It is our desire to provide a Christian education to students and to serve those students whose needs can be met within the classrooms on campus. While we fully recognize that we cannot meet every child’s needs, we do seek to provide services to those children who can function in a traditional classroom with a modicum of support.
Please Note: When parents are concerned about their child’s progress, they should first speak with their child’s teacher and then a Student Study Team meeting (S.S.T.) may be scheduled with the Principal to assess next steps and develop a plan of action Referral to Student Educational Services or other services off campus are usually initiated through the SST meeting
The scope of SES has grown to meet the needs of students at every age and stage. Most of the time SES vendors work with families through direct pay from the family to the vendor. A few of the vendors work with us to provide consultative services for those times when a teacher needs more information as to how to help a child in class Each vendor is professionally and educationally qualified to provide the services described The vendors adhere to our Statement of Faith and are fingerprinted and certified The following provides a description of service provided through Student Educational Services
Outside Services
Southwest Human Development: NCS partners with SWHD to provide support for teachers in the early education program, Preschool and Mini Crusaders SWHD provides a coach that works with the classroom teacher Teachers are provided suggestions to increase student engagement and success in the early education classroom. No students are worked with directly, the teacher is provided the support to better understand student needs. Parents are supported through the education provided by the teacher.
AzEIP: NCS works with Arizona Early Intervention Program (AzEIP) This statewide interagency system of supports and services helps us with children through age 3 with identified developmental delays or disabilities and their families. AzEIP partners with community providers like NCS to support families. Contact the Director of Early Education for information regarding the services mentioned above.
SES Facilitators and Services on the NCS Campus
Barton Tutoring: Barton Tutoring provides reading tutoring through the Barton Reading Program. This systematic and phonological approach to reading has a verifiable positive impact on students struggling to read in the first years of school Parents may use the materials for their child on campus, they can trade services with other parents for tutoring or parents can utilize a paid tutor The program must be used on campus as it is a site-licensed program. Tutors are required to participate in the training program. Students are tested at each level of Barton Tutoring prior to moving on to the next level. Contact Colleen Pfitzinger for more information. cpfitzinger@ncsaz.org.
Occupational Therapy: NCS partners with Cornerstone Pediatric in both consultative services as well as school-based services for children with identified needs. For questions about the process for involvement with school based OT at NCS please contact one of the principals Contact Cornerstone Pediatric for more information. kirsty.chris.stclair@gmail.com
STUDENT EDUCATIONAL SERVICES (CONTINUED)
Speech and Language: Building Blocks, Inc. provides speech and language assessment at NCS followed up with services on campus for those students with identified needs in the areas of articulation, receptive language, expressive language, and pragmatics The program is direct pay as the speech therapist works with students in the SES classroom during the school day For questions about the process for involvement with speech and language services at NCS please contact the elementary principal or early education director. Or, contact Building Blocks for more information at buildingblocksspeech@gmail.com
Student Tutors: Our high school students involved with the National Honor Society often agree to provide tutoring services for our elementary students at a very reasonable rate Please check with the elementary principal for a list of student tutors if you might be interested in services for your child. Contact our Guidance Services Director, Maggie Kipp, for more information. mkipp@ncsaz.org
DIBELS and PELI: NCS provides screening through DIBELS and PELI testing for students as we continue to provide excellence in reading education at NCS. These screenings provide information for teachers on growth in reading processes Contact your grade-specific administrator for more information.
Outside Assessment Services
School Districts: Northwest Christian School (NCS) works directly with the districts surrounding it (Washington Elementary School District and Glendale Union High School District) to provide academic testing as well as information on academic support to students with learning disabilities. Each district provides TAP meetings and follow-up testing. The relationships with the districts are positive. Districts only provide testing when the team (comprised of NCS personnel, district personnel, and the parents agree For more information contact the high school guidance counselor, Magge Kipp for the high school program with GUHSD. mkipp@ncsaz.org For the K – 8 program, please contact Melissa Burkert, the NCS liaison for testing services with WESD. mburkett@ncsaz.org
Academic Testing and Services: There are times when parents prefer to use direct pay or insurance to cover the cost of academic testing as the school and family work together to determine the scope of a child’s needs in school. NCS works with a number of off-site services that provide testing and information. Contact your grade specific administrator for a list of providers.
Counseling: NCS works with a variety of off campus counseling services For a list of services available at parent cost please contact your grade-specific administrator.
Vision Therapy: NCS works with Accent Eye Care to direct students with identified needs for vision therapy. This program provides screening and services for students who struggle with vision and tracking. Contact Accent Eye Care for more information Dr Aleta Gong 602-547-3255
THE BARTON READING AND SPELLING SYSTEM TUTORING
Northwest Christian School has worked to identify a reading program that brings value to struggling readers on campus. NCS has identified, through reputation and practice, the Barton Reading and Spelling System to meet that need.
NCS has invested in 8 levels within the Barton program for supporting students in early reading systems There is a campus administrator, Colleen Pfitzinger, who provides information on Barton tutors and the use of the materials and monitors who is currently getting tutoring through the Barton program Barton tutors on the Northwest Christian School campus can be parents, high school students, grandparents, volunteers, teachers and/or aides. The program is scripted and allows for a pre-test and post-test at the end of each level. This testing helps to assure all students are progressing before moving to the next level within the Barton program.
There is no cost to a tutor to use the Barton materials The materials are available to be used on campus by request of the campus administrator of the Barton program Tutors may request payment by parents, agreed to before tutoring begins, or volunteer at the discretion of the tutor. Each tutor must be able to sign the Statement of Faith for NCS and have a fingerprint clearance card that is current or agree to a background check. All tutoring will occur in a public place on campus, like the picnic tables, or in a classroom with a camera. This allows for protection of the tutor and the student Barton progress is best seen when the tutor meets with the student twice a week for 45 to 60 minutes each time
The elementary principal may give approval for Barton tutoring to occur during the school day. No other tutoring will be allowed during the school day. The tutor and the classroom teacher will agree to meeting times. The tutor will be provided a place to work, either in the tutoring room in the NCS Early Ed building, in the library or at a table outside After school, the tutor may be given space in a classroom with a camera or in one of the other rooms provided Students tutored with the Barton Tutoring Program will typically need tutoring for a year or two to see the value and retention of the Barton Reading and Spelling System
Often teachers or parents misunderstand who will benefit from Barton tutoring. The following provides information on who best will benefit from the Barton program and when the program is not a fit for students.
The Barton System was designed for students of any age who have, or are suspected of having reading issues mirroring the signs of dyslexia Students with dyslexia struggle to easily and accurately decode words when reading, despite being taught phonics. They also are slow and inaccurate readers and often miss the oral reading fluency benchmarks, and have always struggled with spelling – especially when writing sentences, stories, and compositions.
The Barton System has been used successfully with children as young as 5 years of age who are in kindergarten. Yet nothing in the Barton System will offend a teenager or an adult. This is not a “teach yourself” system. A student must work with a tutor.
THE BARTON READING AND SPELLING SYSTEM TUTORING
A Barton student must:
● Be at least 5 years old and in kindergarten.
● Speak and comprehend spoken English.
● The program is not for children with a receptive or expressive language disorder.
● The program is not intended to be an ESL program.
○ The program might work for a non-native English speaker who can speak and understand spoken English at a second grade level.
● Have an IQ of 71, or higher.
● Struggle with spelling when writing stories, and cannot easily sound out unknown words when reading.
○ If someone can already read accurately and rapidly, and spells well, but only has trouble with comprehension, then the Barton System would not be needed or appropriate
● Be able to pass the Barton Student Screening.
○ This screening is offered on campus by the campus administrator for Barton.
The process for enrolling a student in Barton Tutoring at NCS includes the following:
● The teacher/parent will look at DIBELS scores Is the student in the red and not improving with Progress Monitoring?
● The teacher/principal will ask the parents for vision screening We recommend seeing Dr Gong for vision screening for tracking and muscle development in the eye.
● The teacher/principal will ask the parents for recent Speech Screening to rule out articulation and language processing issues.
● The teacher will then refer the parent to the Campus Administrator for the Barton Tutoring Program, Colleen Pfitzinger, for Barton Screening. In kindergarten students must know all letters.
● Parents are asked to consider utilizing a high school student, family friend, grandparent or educational aide to tutor with the Barton after school tutoring
Students who will benefit from the Barton Reading and Spelling System include:
● Students who have reading difficulties that mirror signs of dyslexia
● Students who struggle to put sounds together
● Students who are failing in retaining sounds and spelling patterns
● Students who are not improving with DIBELS Progress Monitoring
Students who are not likely to benefit from the Barton Reading and Spelling System include:
● Students who are low readers and have not been Progress Monitored with DIBELS
● Students who are naturally slower at grasping concepts or fluency
● Students who have attentional issues
● Students considered "bubble" kids in DIBELS who just need more exposure/practice
○ Those students who need extra practice should not be pulled out during the school day
○ Parents are asked to consider utilizing a high school student, family friend, grandparent or educational aide to tutor with after school tutoring.
ELEMENTARY SUMMER IDEAS 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 student 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 that you have some free time please consider using some of these academic activities to keep their skills sharp for the next school year.
Summer Success Boosters
Go to our website www.ncsaz.org and navigate to the Elementary Program to access the Summer Success Boosters. These activities were created by our teachers for each incoming grade from kindergarten through fifth grade. On the website, there is a tab for each grade level. 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. Information on how to implement the various components is included in the introductory page at each grade level.
Spanish 3rd – 5th Grade
You and your student are able to practice Spanish during the summer Whether you have a rising third, fourth or fifth grader, we have created a website to simplify your child’s self-study NCS students can review what they have already learned in cycle 1 or practice what they will be learning, cycle 2, in the upcoming year. You need only to visit www.quizlet.com and search for NCS Elem Spanish. Once at the site, students can work openly or create their own username and password.
● 3rd Grade – NCS Elem Spanish (cycle 1)
● 4th Grade – NCS Elem Spanish (cycle 2)
● 5th Grade – NCS Elem Spanish (cycle 3) *Apple users may use a free app for Quizlet.
IXL, VMath, and RAZ Kids
If your child participated in IXL in our kindergarten through fourth-grade program this past school year, or VMath in our fifth-grade program, you can continue to enjoy the opportunity to have your children practice their understanding of math concepts and practice math facts through the end of July. The login information that was used during the school year is available to students through July of this school year If your child participated in RAZ Kids they may continue with their login information through the end of July to help practice reading.
Summer Reading Program for Students Entering 1st – 5th Grade
The NCS Summer Reading Program will be available from Sunday, June 1st through Wednesday, June 26th, 2023. Pick up candy and Cane’s Kids Meal Vouchers and pick up/drop off Reading Logs on Wednesdays, 6/5/24, 6/12/24, 6/19/24, and 6/26/24 from 10:00am 1:00pm in the NCS Library.
NATIONAL ELEMENTARY HONOR SOCIETY
NCS is proud to continue with the work of the 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 invited guests to honor these highly excelling students.
Select elementary teachers will serve as the NCS Advisors to the NCS Chapter of the National Elementary Honor Society.
ELEMENTARY DRESS CODE
DRESS CODE
“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” (I Timothy 4:12)
We believe God’s Word has a practical application to the dress and grooming of students. It is appropriate to ask students to dress modestly and appropriately. Extreme fads and styles in clothing and jewelry that are contrary to our Christian testimony are inappropriate. 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 expect parents to cooperate with the school in monitoring their child’s daily attire to assure compliance with the NCS dress code.
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 or club shirt or any NCS logo wear. Jeans/denim may be only worn on specified days during the year.
School Earned Dress Down Days
Dress down days such as PJ day or wear your favorite T-Shirt day will be typically scheduled for Fridays.
Denim/Jean Days
When students are allowed to wear denim/jeans (blue or black), the apparel is to reflect the school dress code Attire must fit modestly, not too tight and not too loose, without rips or holes, appropriate length in skirts and shorts with any décor not being contrary to our Christian testimony
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 heavy cotton twill or corduroy in black, solid navy or tan (khaki) colors. Please be aware that not all the clothing in the uniform section or department meet 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 have a button placket (no snaps, zippers, laces, etc.), 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 material that have a tendency to cling to the body No leggings are permissible for primary pants; however, they may be worn under skirts. Any type of jean or blue jeans are not allowed during the normal school day, nor are pants made of denim or blue jean material. Pants must be of a navy blue, black, khaki tan color only. For girls’, capri pants are acceptable. Cargo pants or overalls are not acceptable. No jeans are allowed for regular school dress days. Shorts are to be longer than the fingertips and no longer than the bend of the knee. Cargo shorts are acceptable.
ELEMENTARY DRESS CODE
● Jumpers, skirts, or skorts are to be longer than the fingertips 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. Plaid skirts and jumpers may be worn if they are the NCS approved apparel purchased from Dennis Uniform. Skirts are to be made of heavy twill 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 fast 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: All outerwear (including sweaters, sweatshirts, windbreakers, jackets, etc.) worn in the classroom 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, but cannot be worn in the classroom. 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: As our kids grow up they look forward to each “rite of passage” in school. We ask that our children not wear “makeup” or face glitter in the elementary program. When our elementary students are worried about checking makeup and reapplying it during the day it becomes a distraction to the classroom. Please save this rite of passage for middle school.
● Jewelry: Jewelry should be kept to a minimum for boys and girls. Necklaces should be simple. Watches may not be used to contact parents or access the internet during the school day. Earrings for our girls should not “hang” but be solid posts. Boys are not to wear earring to school.
● Hair: Hair for both girls and boys is to be kept neat, clean and the natural color. Extreme styles are to be avoided Hair for boys must be shorter than collars and cut so their eyebrows and at least part of their ears are visible Hair for girls must allow for the student to see without hair being in the eyes
● Free Dress: During free dress days, students must comply with the basic dress code of covering necessities and length of shorts and skirts. No torn jeans may be worn during dress down days. Appropriate and modest attire is expected at all times.
● The school administration reserves the right to make modifications of 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. Dress Code Violation Policy Parents have the responsibility to send their children to school dressed and groomed appropriately. Parents of students in violation of dress code will be notified, and the student will not go out to recess until the violation is corrected. Students unsure of the appropriateness of any clothing should receive administrative approval before wearing it Questions on dress code will be clarified by the administration as they arise Issues related to dress code matters, including modesty and/or judgment calls are at the discretion of the faculty and administration
ELEMENTARY UNIFORM EXCHANGE
The annual elementary uniform exchange will take place in the Don Sanderson Gymnasium during Meet the Teacher Day, August 1, 2024 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 with no 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 receive clothes for their students for the following school year If you take clothes, we would ask that you consider donating items from the previous school year that meet the above criteria.
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL SUPPLY LISTS
2 24 pack crayons
1 12 pack colored pencils
1 Fiskar scissors (for kids)
1 plastic pencil box (approx. 5x8x2)
1 hand sanitizer
1 set of headphones for the computer (no earbuds)
1 primary journal (Mead) with picture box and dotted lines ONLY!
1 NIV Bible
2 vinyl folders with pockets (any solid color) - label with your name
1 pack crayons
1 pack colored pencils
of 8 washable markers
Expo dry erase markers (black, fine tip)
large box of tissues (250 count)
disinfecting wipes
set of earbuds or headphones
(sharpened)
of large black EXPO markers
pencils
sticks 1 pack washable markers
2 lg. white erasers
1 small Fiskar scissors with sharp point
4 pack highlighters - assorted colors
1 large plastic school box (approx. 11x7x2)
1 Mead primary composition notebook wide ruled with dotted lines (no picture boxes) 100 sheets, 9 ¾ x 7 ½ ONLY! - label with your name
1 NIV Bible
1 composition notebook
mechanical pencils (9mm lead)
1 small box crayons
1 small box of thin markers
disinfecting wipes
box of tissues (250 count) - BOYS ONLY
of Ziploc sandwich bags - GIRLS ONLY
items will be collected for classroom supply.
soft white pencil eraser
set of earbuds
school box of pencils, crayons, scissors, etc.
container disinfectant wipes
green folder with 2 pockets and 3 brass fasteners
1 box colored pencils 1 Large box of tissue - BOYS ONLY
2 yellow highlighters (not markers)
1 NIV Bible
bottle of 8 oz hand sanitizer - GIRLS ONLY
pair of scissors (student size) 5 1-subject notebooks
sticks 1 ½ inch 3 ring durable clear view binder (no zipper)
Crayola Crayons 8 colored pens
colored pencils
Crayola thin washable markers
#2 pencils or mechanical (.7mm lead)
non-erasable red pens
pack sheet protectors
of paper towels
box of tissues (250 count)
container of bleach wipes (Clorox)
small sharpener with
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 $7.00 an hour for your scheduled hours. Extended Care may be used on an occasional drop-in basis, depending on space availability, at $7.50 an hour. All requests for occasional care must be pre-approved on a daily basis through the Early Education office.
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 Procedure: 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.
EXTENDED CARE BILLING
Mini Crusader 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
Director of Early Education and Kindergarten Principal Bree Tarbutton
btarbutton@ncsaz org, 602-978-5134
ELEMENTARY DROP OFF AND PICK UP
We are often asked, “Will the new K-2 building and the location of our elementary office in the new building change our drop off and pick up routine?” The answer is, no. If you drop off or pick up, please continue to use the Drop Off and Pick Up Lane in the south parking lot as usual. We do not believe a change to the traffic flow will be advantageous. We ask that drivers do not utilize driving pathways for drop off and pick up. We also ask that NCS families respect church parking and curbs restricted for church use only.
Parents may choose to park and walk their children to class or they may choose to drive their children through the designated drop-off zone.
● The drop-off zone on the east side of the south parking lot will have our educational assistants help students get out of their cars and move safely to the elementary school area behind the fence We ask that parents follow the drive along the new K-2 building to drop off their children. As you proceed in these drop lanes, we ask that you do not back up or exit your vehicle and that you observe the 5-mile-an-hour speed limit to protect our children.
● If you use the drop-off/pick up zone, please do not stop in front of the new K-2 building to drop off or pick up your child This will only frustrate other drivers, and restrict the flow of traffic. Please continue to the regular drop-off/pick-up zone where our staff can safely receive your child.
● For the end-of-day pickup, we have partnered with PikMyKid. PikMyKid is an app that parents download on their phones. At the end of the day, when parents arrive on campus, the app is used to notify our educational assistants that the parent is on campus This helps to stage our students and decrease the time our parents and children must wait in the heat after school. More information will be available during the Meet the Teacher event on August 1st.
● All students expecting to be picked up in the pick up zone, must proceed to the covered basketball court immediately after school, to wait.
● Parents are asked to display a placard behind their front windshield to notify our staff of your family name for pick up. We will provide this placard to you at the Meet the Teacher event.
ELEMENTARY DROP OFF AND PICK UP (CONTINUED)
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.
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.
Eric Dowdle
Elementary Principal
Northwest Christian School
ASAP CLUBS FOR FALL 2024
Specific days and number of weeks will be available via online registration the first week of August.
Jr. Robotics
The Bricks 4 Kidz Junior Robotics class offers all the fun of building with our B4K Lego® Bricks, plus the challenge of computer programming! WeDo 2.0, a drag-and-drop, icon based program is used to introduce kids to computer programming and robotics! Grades K-3
Chapel Cherubs
Unlike other clubs, this club meets sporadically throughout the year. This club is an opportunity for those kids who love to praise the Lord through movement and music! Mrs Barrett will enthusiastically lead this group of children to use the Holy Spirit's power and presence in singing praises to the Lord during four to five elementary school chapels, beginning in October-May. Dates are TBD. Grades 1-5
Crafting with Mrs. Burke
Each week students will get to create a craft and take it home. Grades 3-5
STEM with Ms. Pfitzinger
Encourages students to prepare for future success in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Fun activities include: Engineering Challenge, Chemical Reactions, Pipeline Challenge, Ice Cream, Tumbling Towers, Marble Races, Circuits, and more. Grades 3-5
Little Veterinarian School
Section I: After “adopting” their very own plush puppy, students will role-play the key responsibilities of a veterinarian, including how to properly perform a nose-to-tail exam. These future veterinarians will learn how to sew stitches, remove ticks, make healthy treats, and vaccinate their dog. Grades K-5
Little Doctor School
Section I: Basic anatomy, medical instruments and prepping for surgery. Through role-play and activities, students will learn the key responsibilities of a doctor and explore the heart, lungs, and digestion. Students will use real medical instruments (stethoscope, reflex hammer, and blood pressure cuff) and practice scrubbing, suturing, and tying knots like a real surgeon. Grades K-5
Running Club
This running club is designed to help our students become stronger, faster, and smarter runners. 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.
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
STEM Robotics by STEM LABS
Level 1: Robotics Fundamentals
Neotech mission is to build a global STEM labs platform for students to learn, build and express their ideas. Most importantly, learn it as fun. We focus on hands-on learning with real-world applications. The curriculum is built around 5 principles - Leadership, Teamwork, Problem-Solving, Creativity & Learning it as a Fun. Grades 3-6
Homework Club
Mrs. Roman and high school helpers will give students extra help with practicing spelling words, Bible verses, vocabulary, extra AR time and assistance with any worksheets or assignments. This is not individual tutoring. Grades 2-5
PE Play
If you love PE class, then this is the club for you! 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
Snazzy Snacks
Students will create kid-friendly recipes and enjoy eating what they create! Grades K-5
JUNIOR CRUSADERS SPORTS PROGRAM
The Junior Crusaders Sports Program provides NCS students from Pre-K through 8th grade with a fantastic opportunity to pursue their passion of sports in a safe, competitive, fun, andChrist-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.
The Junior Crusaders Sports Program is an inclusive program. It welcomes and encourages all Pre-K through 8th grade boys and girls from Northwest Christian, regardless of their ability and prior experience, to participate and enjoy the fun, community-building and great learning experiences that come from being involved in team sports.
Fall 2024 Sports Programs
Sport Grades Gender Registration
CCV Flag Football ccvstars.com
CCV Soccer ccvstars.com
CCV Basketball (Peoria Campus only) ccvstars.com
Jr. Crusaders Cross Country
NYS Volleyball
Pre-K/K 1st/2nd 3rd/4th 5th/6th Co-ed
Pre-K/K 1st/2nd 3rd/4th 5/6/7
Pre-K/K 1st/2nd 3rd/4th 5th/6th 7th/8th
Boys & Girls Teams
Boys & Girls Teams
Grades 2nd - 5th Co-ed
Grades 3rd/4th 5th/6th Girls
Online Registration: ccvstars com
Now- August 7th
*Request NCS team
Online Registration: ccvstars.com
Now- August 7th
*Request NCS team
Online Registration: ccvstars.com
Now- August 7th
*Request NCS team
ASAP Clubs
Starting in September for 8 weeks
Sign up link in August Week at a Glance
Online Registration: www.nysaz.com
*Request NCS team Now Open
NCS ANNUAL STUDENT TRIP OPPORTUNITIES
ELEMENTARY
3rd Grade - San Diego Floating Lab Trip - March 2025
Description: The annual elementary excursion to San Diego has become a family favorite each Spring Break Centered around time aboard a half-day harbor excursion, the Floating Lab allows students to see the wonders of God’s marine creations up close. The trip also affords families discounted opportunities to visit Sea World and the San Diego Zoo Costs are varied based on the activities and events each family chooses Additional information will become available to families at Back to School Night on August 13, 2024.
5th
Grade Camp
Description: Traveling to a sleep-away camp in northern Arizona, the fifth graders will enjoy a time of fellowship and learning that is centered around a distinctively Christian science-based curriculum. Students will spend two nights at the camp Though the final prices will be determined after some fundraising this fall, historically, the camp has been in the neighborhood of $150 per student Additional information will be provided to families on Back to School Night on August 13, 2024.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
6th through 8th Grades - Serve the City
Description: This is an amazing opportunity for all MS students to serve those in need in our local community! Students spend 2 nights and 3 days together as we serve and partner with various ministries around town to help our fellow community members who are in need.
8th Grade - Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris, Mexico Fall 2024 and Spring 2025
Description: This is a service opportunity for students to experience a culture that is different from ours The goal of the trip is to help give NCS students a new perspective of service in hopes of fostering a love for serving the poor With additional info to follow from 8th grade Bible, the cost of the trip varies but students will be involved in raising their support
8th Grade - End-of-the-Year trip
Description: It is a tradition for many years that 8th grade students end the school year with an exciting event (local or out of town)! Watch your email for more information.
HIGH SCHOOL
9th through 12th Grades - Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris, Mexico, Fall 2023 and Spring 2024
Description: This is a service opportunity for students to experience a culture that is different from ours. The goal of the trip is to help give NCS students a new perspective of service in hopes of fostering a love for serving the poor. With additional info to follow, the cost of the trip varies but students will be involved in raising their support. Additional information regarding the orphanage can be found at: www facebook com/imuriskidskingdom
9th through 12th Grades - Fine & Performing Arts Trip
Description: The every-other-year HS choir trip is an incredible opportunity for high school students to experience major cities around the world. This year’s trip will include musical instruction and performances that speckle the itinerary promoting skill development and a greater appreciation of the arts. For more information, please email Julie Dennis at jdennis@ncsaz org Don’t miss out on this one in a lifetime experience!
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS NCS
NCS
MIDDLE SCHOOL
6TH-8TH GRADE
FROM SECONDARY PRINCIPALS, SAMANTHA MASZTON & JEFF PARSONS
Dear NCS Family,
The new school year is just around the corner! We are so excited about the spiritual theme this year; “Living in the Light”. This will be the focus for the spiritual formation elements throughout the school year. The theme is student-chosen and is taken from John 8:12; “Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life ” Please join us in prayer for the upcoming school year!
In this packet you will find some helpful information to make the start of the school year a success. Please don’t hesitate to call or email the office with questions.
Wednesday, July 31st, 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
10:00-11:00
11:00-12:00
12:00-1:00
1:00-2:00
2:00-3:00
Secondary Registration Group
Last name beginning with A, B, or C
Last name beginning with D, E, F, or G
Last name beginning with H, I, J, or K
Teacher Lunch Break
Last name beginning with L, M, N or O
Last name beginning with P , 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
Bell Schedule
PE Uniforms to purchase
Volunteer Sign-Up Table
Student Schedule
Registration Day Fee:
Club Offerings
Health Office
Driver Registration Forms (HS)
Senior Lunch Release Forms (HS)
High School Camp Rooming
This year, we will be assessing a flat fee to your student’s Blackbaud Tuition Management Account, which can be paid with a debit or credit card You can also pay your fee on Registration Day by cash or check.
Middle School: $120 High School: $220
FROM SECONDARY PRINCIPALS, SAMANTHA MASZTON & JEFF PARSONS
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 - required for HS students to park on campus
-MS and HS 2024-2025 NCS Theme T-shirt. Students may wear jeans with this t-shirt on Friday’s throughout the year.
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, Anna Johnson, at anjohnson@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.
Attendance of 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 and 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.
FROM SECONDARY PRINCIPALS, SAMANTHA MASZTON & JEFF PARSONS
Important Dates in July/August
Date Time Event Location
July 31st See Previous Page Secondary Registration Day
Don Sanderson Gymnasium
August 1st 12:00 - 1:00 PM New Student Welcome Party Grades 6-2: MS Hallway Grades 9-12: Don Sanderson Gymnasium
August 5th 7:45 AM First Day of School Report to First Hour
August 15th 5:30 PM Secondary Back-to-School Night More details to come
August 29th During School Hours Secondary Picture Day - Watch for more details in the Week-at-a-Glance
Don Sanderson Gymnasium
If you are unable to attend Registration Day on July 31st, please feel free to contact Tammy Collins at tmcollins@ncsaz.org or 602-978-5134 ext. 514 to make an appointment prior to the first day of school
We are looking forward to another great year at Northwest Christian School!
Sincerely,
Samantha Maszton Middle School Principal/Assistant Superintendent
Jeff
Parsons High School Principal
FROM THE DESKS OF SECONDARY DEAN OF STUDENTS, JIM JAMES
Dear NCS Secondary Families,
I hope everyone is doing well and finding ways to escape the heat! As Secondary Dean of Students, I am tasked with upholding our school’s practices and policies in regards to attendance and discipline Please familiarize yourself with these policies prior to the start of the school year. Below you will find a brief explanation of our philosophy and points of emphasis.
Philosophy
Much of the day to day discipline at NCS is handled using a systematic approach The handbook clearly defines minor violations, major violations, and zero tolerance violations, and prescribes a general course of action as infractions are encountered. Progress and reform are both high priority goals in the implementation of such disciplinary steps Most importantly, the desire for the student to grow in their walk with Jesus Christ through loving discipline is the fundamental aim of the disciplinary policies of NCS.
God clearly establishes boundaries throughout scripture. There are consequences for stepping outside these boundaries. God does not do this because He is overbearing, but rather because He loves us so much and wants us to live abundantly in a right relationship with Him Every boundary, rule, or policy we have at NCS is set in place for the safety of the student, stewardship of our campus, and to provide a Christ-centered atmosphere that is conducive to learning.
Attendance
Punctual and regular attendance at school is necessary for quality education to occur, and is the shared responsibility between the student and his/her parent or guardian. Punctual and regular attendance prepares the student for the world of work and adult responsibilities.
A student may be tardy 3 times to each class per semester without consequence There will be a consequence for each tardy starting on the fourth The progression of consequences is listed in the handbook Tardies are excused only by a note from a doctor, an emergency, or a pass from the previous teacher, admin, or nurse Credit will be lost on the 10th tardy.
A student coming late to class more than 10 minutes through the class is considered absent. The administration has determined that a student who accumulates more than 12 absences (regardless of excused or unexcused) in a given subject in a semester may lose credit for the class. Please submit verification to the school office of any chronic/acute illnesses documented by a physician Class missed for school functions does not count as an absence
Discipline
Minor and major violations are listed in our handbook, as well as the subsequent consequences. Two minor violations per semester are given without consequence However, on the third minor, the progression of consequences will begin. Major violations are subject to immediate disciplinary action.
Thank you so much for your support of our practices and policies at NCS We value the opportunity to partner with you to assist your student to become the person God intended him/her to be. It is my desire for the Dean’s Office to be a safe place for your student to come for help when needing assistance in handling a difficult situation at school You and your student are always welcome to contact me if clarification on any of our philosophies or “boundaries and consequences” are needed.
Partnering in Christ,
Jim James Dean of Students
SECONDARY DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS
Shirts – All Students
All students are required to wear a solid color or striped polo shirt. Non-offensive logos are acceptable as long as the size of the logo does not exceed the size of a credit card Any brand of solid color or striped polo is acceptable. In addition, any NCS/NC polo is also acceptable (i.e striped golf polo is acceptable). Shirts must be long enough so that if a student’s arms are raised straight above their head, no beltline may be showing. Polo shirts may be purchased from any store as long as the requirements above are met Students may layer shirts under the required polo. Students may wear a sweater or sweatshirt over their polo for warmth; however, no shirt is to be worn over the polo unless it is for warmth.
Pants – All Students
Pants must be of a dress pant, twill/cotton or corduroy material Pants may not be made of spandex, lycra, nylon, rayon or other material that have a tendency to cling to the body. No jeggings are permissible. Jeans are not allowed, nor are pants made of denim or blue jean material. Pants must be of a navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan or brown color only Capri pants or cargo shorts/pants are acceptable Overalls are not acceptable.
Shorts – All Students
Shorts may be worn throughout the school year. Shorts must extend past the fingertips when the student’s arms are fully extended at their side Shorts must be loose-fitting and of a dress pant, twill/cotton, or corduroy material. Shorts may not be made of denim, spandex, lycra, nylon, rayon, mesh, flannel, velour, or terry-cloth. Shorts must be of a navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan or brown color only. Furthermore, shorts must be of a solid and non-extreme color; white is considered an extreme color and is not allowed
Skirts – Girls
Skirts may be worn by girls The skirt must be “uniform style” All skirts must extend past the fingertips when the student’s arms are fully extended at their side Skirts must be of a navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan or brown color. Skirts may be purchased from Dennis Uniforms. These skirts may be navy, blue, khaki tan, or Dennis Uniform approved plaid in color and must meet appropriate length and fit criteria The only plaids permitted are the two from Dennis No other plaids are permitted
On Campus Out-of-Dress Day Guidelines
-No tank tops
-Shorts/Skirt length must be a minimum of a 4 inch inseam
-No yoga pants/leggings
-No holes in jeans, shorts, or skirts
*Modesty is the general rule
Spirit Week Dress Day Guidelines
-No tank tops
-Shorts/Skirt length must be a minimum of a 4 inch inseam
-Yoga pants/leggings may be worn with shorts over top
-No holes above the fingertips in jeans, shorts, or skirts
-Face paint and temporary hair color may be worn during this week if it goes with the dress theme (we encourage you to apply at home)
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 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. 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/or 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
iPAD ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
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.
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.
● 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 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.
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 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
2 three-hole pencil pouches to be clipped inside the binders
1 NCS PE uniform, available for purchase on Registration Day. Shorts$15 each, Shirts $10 each.
1 Deodorant (replenish as necessary)
Geometry Students
All middle school students in geometry will need a TI-84 graphing calculator
MIDDLE SCHOOL BINDER ORGANIZATION SYSTEM
*Students needto come to schoolon the firstday withtheir binder organized.
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. 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 in the back.
3. Using your child’s class schedule attained at 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 for next 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 should be kept in the student’s locker and taken to class at the teacher’s request.
7. 8th GRADE ONLY - Please include the graph paper in the math section of your binder.
8 Each student should take their planner to every class
9. Students should take their Bible with them to Bible class.
MIDDLE SCHOOL IMPACT GROUPS
Dear Middle School Family,
The middle school years of a child are so incredibly important I am so thrilled that the MS staff here at NCS feel called to this age and work tirelessly at connecting with students and pointing them to Christ!
Here at Northwest Christian School, we are blessed to be a part of a community where students are living in Christian homes, involved in the local church, and attending a Christian school. However, we know that students within the age range of 10-15 years old are forming their own opinions about faith and what they believe.
As a way of partnering with our families, each middle school student is part of an ImpactGroup. These groups are composed of a teacher and a small group of kids that are the same grade level with the simple goal of building meaningfulrelationships
Every Wednesday following Chapel, Impact Groups are dismissed to head to their chosen destination on campus. Here teachers have an opportunity to follow-up on Chapel with discussion questions and get to know their group of kids outside of the classroom setting. This may look like Just Dance, Extreme Pictionary, Minute to Win It Games, or Relays but all of it intentionally serves a much deeper purpose. It’s a time for our kids to see us cheering them on, excited that they are “ours” and on our team . . . a time to buildmeaningfulrelationships.
We are privileged to develop relationships with students, build community, and walk them through this stage of life as they enter into a deeper relationship with Christ I would ask that you pray for Impact Groups throughout the year.
God bless you,
Samantha Maszton
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)
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 Wrestling (6th, 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)
Sports Fee:
The Middle School sports fee is $75.00 per sport per season with the exception of football which is $125 00
Fall Try-Outs:
Football equipment handout if in town - Saturday August 3, 2024
Tryouts for soccer and cheer will begin the second week of school TBD.
Sign ups for fall athletics will be at Registration Day 7/31. Specific tryout info will be available then
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.
JUNIOR CRUSADERS SPORTS PROGRAM
The Junior Crusaders Sports Program provides NCS students from Pre-K through 8th grade with a fantastic opportunity to pursue their passion of sports in a safe, competitive, fun, andChrist-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.
The Junior Crusaders Sports Program is an inclusive program. It welcomes and encourages all Pre-K through 8th grade boys and girls from Northwest Christian, regardless of their ability and prior experience, to participate and enjoy the fun, community-building and great learning experiences that come from being involved in team sports.
Fall 2024 Sports Programs
Sport Grades Gender Registration
CCV Flag Football ccvstars.com
CCV Soccer ccvstars.com
CCV Basketball (Peoria Campus only) ccvstars.com
Jr. Crusaders Cross Country
NYS Volleyball
Pre-K/K 1st/2nd 3rd/4th 5th/6th Co-ed
Pre-K/K 1st/2nd 3rd/4th 5/6/7
Pre-K/K 1st/2nd 3rd/4th 5th/6th 7th/8th
Boys & Girls Teams
Boys & Girls Teams
Grades 2nd - 5th Co-ed
Grades 3rd/4th 5th/6th Girls
Online Registration: ccvstars com
Now- August 7th
*Request NCS team
Online Registration: ccvstars.com
Now- August 7th
*Request NCS team
Online Registration: ccvstars.com
Now- August 7th
*Request NCS team
ASAP Clubs
Starting in September for 8 weeks
Sign up link in August Week at a Glance
Online Registration: www.nysaz.com
*Request NCS team Now Open
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.
NCS ANNUAL STUDENT TRIP OPPORTUNITIES
ELEMENTARY
3rd Grade - San Diego Floating Lab Trip - March 2025
Description: The annual elementary excursion to San Diego has become a family favorite each Spring Break Centered around time aboard a half-day harbor excursion, the Floating Lab allows students to see the wonders of God’s marine creations up close. The trip also affords families discounted opportunities to visit Sea World and the San Diego Zoo Costs are varied based on the activities and events each family chooses Additional information will become available to families at Back to School Night on August 13, 2024.
5th
Grade Camp
Description: Traveling to a sleep-away camp in northern Arizona, the fifth graders will enjoy a time of fellowship and learning that is centered around a distinctively Christian science-based curriculum. Students will spend two nights at the camp Though the final prices will be determined after some fundraising this fall, historically, the camp has been in the neighborhood of $150 per student Additional information will be provided to families on Back to School Night on August 13, 2024.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
6th through 8th Grades - Serve the City
Description: This is an amazing opportunity for all MS students to serve those in need in our local community! Students spend 2 nights and 3 days together as we serve and partner with various ministries around town to help our fellow community members who are in need.
8th Grade - Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris, Mexico Fall 2024 and Spring 2025
Description: This is a service opportunity for students to experience a culture that is different from ours The goal of the trip is to help give NCS students a new perspective of service in hopes of fostering a love for serving the poor With additional info to follow from 8th grade Bible, the cost of the trip varies but students will be involved in raising their support
8th Grade - End-of-the-Year trip
Description: It is a tradition for many years that 8th grade students end the school year with an exciting event (local or out of town)! Watch your email for more information.
HIGH SCHOOL
9th through 12th Grades - Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris, Mexico, Fall 2023 and Spring 2024
Description: This is a service opportunity for students to experience a culture that is different from ours. The goal of the trip is to help give NCS students a new perspective of service in hopes of fostering a love for serving the poor. With additional info to follow, the cost of the trip varies but students will be involved in raising their support. Additional information regarding the orphanage can be found at: www facebook com/imuriskidskingdom
9th through 12th Grades - Fine & Performing Arts Trip
Description: The every-other-year HS choir trip is an incredible opportunity for high school students to experience major cities around the world. This year’s trip will include musical instruction and performances that speckle the itinerary promoting skill development and a greater appreciation of the arts. For more information, please email Julie Dennis at jdennis@ncsaz org Don’t miss out on this one in a lifetime experience!
2024/2025 MISSION TRIPS!
MEXICO TO KIDS KINGDOM ORPHANGE
HIGH SCHOOL DATES: SEPT 26-29, DEC 14, APRIL 24-27
COST: 275
AGE REQUIREMENT: HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
TEAM CAPACITY: 35 for each trip
TEAM LEADER: MR. GARDINER
CrusadersGO
In keeping with the mission and purpose of NCS “to enable students to develop a Christian world view and prepare them to fulfill their God ordained role in the home, the church, their country, and the world.” We are excited to offer several trips during the school year to support that purpose. Here are the trips offered for 6-12 grades at NCS. To register please visit ncs.managedmissions.com/ourtrips
Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris Sonora has been a light in that community the last 14 years. In that time Arturo and Lilia Jimenez have had the charge of caring for the children in the DIF system as well as families in the surrounding community. NCS has been partnering with Kids Kingdom for the last 10 years and we have built a pretty fantastic relationship. There will be a parent info meeting on Aug 29 at 7:15 a.m. OR 3:15 p.m. in room 203
For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
MEXICO WITH ONE MISSION
DATE: October 17-20
COST: $375
AGE REQUIREMENT: CURRENT HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
TEAM CAPACITY: 24
TEAM LEADER: MR. SOUTHALL
1 Mission is a community development organization that gives people in poverty the opportunity to earn a house by serving their community. This team of students will travel to Rocky Point Mexico and work side by side with a family in the construction of their very own home. The home will be completed by the time the team leaves on Sunday. For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
MEXICO TO KIDS KINGDOM ORPHANGE
8TH GRADE DATES: Oct 31-Nov 3 OR FEB 6-9
COST: 275
AGE REQUIREMENT: CURRENT 8TH GRADERS
TEAM CAPACITY: 30
TEAM LEADER: MR. GARDINER
Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris Sonora has been a light in that community the last 14 years. In that time Arturo and Lilia Jimenez have had the charge of caring for the children in the DIF system as well as families in the surrounding community. NCS has been partnering with Kids Kingdom for the last 10 years and we have built a pretty fantastic relationship. There will be a parent info meeting on Aug 29 at 7:15 a.m. OR 3:15 p.m. in room 203
For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
SERVE THE CITY
DATE: MARCH 4-6
COST: $175
AGE REQUIREMENT: Current 6TH 8TH GRADE STUDENTS
TEAM CAPACITY: 26
TEAM LEADER: MR BURSON
We will be serving together at several local ministries in Phoenix such as St Vincent de Paul, St. Mary’s Food Bank, Phoenix Rescue Mission, Deep Within Rehab etc...We will be staying at a local church and make that our home base.
For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
ARTS & ABILITIES (AAA) CLUBS FOR FALL 2024
Specific days and weeks will be available via online registration the first week of August.
As Seen on Pintrest
As Seen on Pinterest Club-- Come join Mrs Coughlin as we make fun crafts from Pinterest! We will work with clay, paint, crochet, and make other fun projects you get to take home with you!
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
Senor Superheroes by STEM Labs
Semester 1: Sensor Skills: Delved into the fascinating world of sensors, unlocking their potential for real-world applications.
Semester 2: : Ocean Conservation Project: Champions of ocean conservation! Their robots tackled critical challenges – removing trash, cleaning up oil spills, rescuing animals from fishing nets, and even assisting stranded passengers – promoting environmental responsibility through robotics Throughout this journey, we fostered a learning environment built on five core principles:
Leadership: Students developed their confidence to guide and inspire their teams.
Teamwork: Collaboration and communication became key pillars of their success.
Problem-solving: From planning to execution, students learned to approach challenges with creative solutions
Creativity: Their imagination fueled robot design and innovative solutions. Fun: Above all, we ensured that learning robotics was an engaging and enjoyable experience! Grades 6-8
Amateur Radio Club
This club will help students learn the necessary skills for obtaining FCC amateur radio license. Students will learn about the radio arts through a multitude of science, technology, and math-related fields directly and indirectly related to amateur radio. Students may also participate in the Northwest Christian Amateur Radio Club (NCARC) Students will also be able to study for and (hopefully) pass the FCC Amateur Radio License (no fee charged) Open to all 6th to 8th Grade
NCS Middle & High School Clubs
There is a place for you in a Crusader Club! Below is just a sampling of the growing number of clubs that are available to Northwest Christian students. Each Monday, throughout the school year, check your email for dates, times, and details!
NC Amateur Radio Club
HAM radio has proven effective within public safety and emergency response. NCARC offers opportunities to explore different specialties within the ham radio world, making it a hub for those eager to grow in the field.
Wyldlife/YoungLife
The mission of YoungLife and Wyldlife is to introduce adolescents to Jesus Christ. Unlike any other club program in the valley, the NCS chapter of these clubs sees that within dynamic events!
NCS Missions
God has adventure planned for your life and this is the perfect chance to begin discovering it! NCS has numerous missions teams for you to join and to begin training for evangelism, discipleship, service, and, of course, adventure!,
Prayer Warriors
Prayer Warriors brings together high school students with a passion for prayer and the needs of their peers. The group offers weekly support and encouragement to others throughout the school. (HS)
NCS Law Club
Led by an alumni attorney, law club learns the Biblical foundation for law and participates in Mock Trial competitions. (HS)
Off the Page Book Club
The Come & See Creativity Journal
This club pulls together different resources to support high school students during difficult times. Led by an alumni, the club focuses on helping the hurting in our community.
Crusader Archery
For both amateurs and experts, Crusader Archery is meant to be both fun and competitive. Students will learn the basics and compete in tournaments. Expect more info mid-August.
Happy Hands ASL Club
Happy Hands represents a committed group of HS ASL students that are working to make a difference through service in the community of the deaf and hard-of -hearing.
Off the Page works through books of different genres and enjoys stimulating discussions as they savor complimentary lunches together. We have both MS and HS chapters!
Fellowship of Christian Athletes
High school coaches and athletes in pursuit of a deeper relationship with Christ come together once-a-month for fellowship and fun. (HS)
Students For Life
The NCS chapter of Students for Life rallies pro-life middle and high school students in practical support of two local crisis nurse-
NCS Student Ambassadors
The biggest club on campus works to meet the needs of campus visitors through hospitality and service. (HS)
High School Chess Club
“Knights of the Square Table” is for beginners and experts! The club enjoys free food, fellowship, and competitive play as we prepare for AIA matches with other schools.
Crusader eSports
eSports is now an official high school AIA sport. Join other varsity athletes as we take on other high schools around the state towards the first eSports state championship!
NCS Adventure Cru
Return of a legend! Adventure Cru leads high school students through amazing outdoor adventures across the state on a monthly basis. (MS and HS)
WyldLife . . . You were made for this . . .
What is WyldLife?
The WyldLife experience is a middle school version of Young Life open to all NCS Middle School students. In WyldLife, we love middle school kids! They are full of life and yet experiencing profound emotional and physical changes. Middle school is a time when kids make important decisions about who they are and what they believe. And so WyldLife leaders seek to model and express God's love to our young friends by learning their names, hearing their stories and honoring their God-given desire for a life of fun, adventure and purpose.
How do I get information about upcoming events?
Add your email to the WyldLife email distribution list for monthly reminders. The NCS Week at a Glance will have Save the Dates in the Middle School section. Pick up a flyer from Mr. Woods 1 week prior to the event.
How often does WyldLife meet?
1-2 times a month. Come when you can and just have fun.
Where are WyldLife Clubs/Events held?
Clubs are held at a NCS parent’s home. There is no charge and no need to bring anything.
There are a couple of events at Jump Street and Great Skate (these range from $10-$12).
Who runs Clubs/Events?
Mr. Woods and Jr. Leaders (HS and College Leaders)
Where do I see pictures from clubs/events?
Follow NCSWyldLife on Instagram
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS NCS
HIGH SCHOOL 9TH-12TH GRADE NCS
FROM SECONDARY PRINCIPALS, SAMANTHA MASZTON & JEFF PARSONS
Dear NCS Family,
The new school year is just around the corner! We are so excited about the spiritual theme this year; “Living in the Light”. This will be the focus for the spiritual formation elements throughout the school year. The theme is student-chosen and is taken from John 8:12; “Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life ” Please join us in prayer for the upcoming school year!
In this packet you will find some helpful information to make the start of the school year a success. Please don’t hesitate to call or email the office with questions.
Wednesday, July 31st, 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
10:00-11:00
11:00-12:00
12:00-1:00
1:00-2:00
2:00-3:00
Secondary Registration Group
Last name beginning with A, B, or C
Last name beginning with D, E, F, or G
Last name beginning with H, I, J, or K
Teacher Lunch Break
Last name beginning with L, M, N or O
Last name beginning with P , 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
Bell Schedule
PE Uniforms to purchase
Volunteer Sign-Up Table
Student Schedule
Registration Day Fee:
Club Offerings
Health Office
Driver Registration Forms (HS)
Senior Lunch Release Forms (HS)
High School Camp Rooming
This year, we will be assessing a flat fee to your student’s Blackbaud Tuition Management Account, which can be paid with a debit or credit card You can also pay your fee on Registration Day by cash or check.
Middle School: $120 High School: $220
FROM SECONDARY PRINCIPALS, SAMANTHA MASZTON & JEFF PARSONS
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 - required for HS students to park on campus
-MS and HS 2024-2025 NCS Theme T-shirt. Students may wear jeans with this t-shirt on Friday’s throughout the year.
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, Anna Johnson, at anjohnson@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.
Attendance of 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 and 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.
FROM SECONDARY PRINCIPALS, SAMANTHA MASZTON & JEFF PARSONS
Important Dates in July/August
Date Time Event Location
July 31st See Previous Page Secondary Registration Day
Don Sanderson Gymnasium
August 1st 12:00 - 1:00 PM New Student Welcome Party Grades 6-2: MS Hallway Grades 9-12: Don Sanderson Gymnasium
August 5th 7:45 AM First Day of School Report to First Hour
August 15th 5:30 PM Secondary Back-to-School Night More details to come
August 29th During School Hours Secondary Picture Day - Watch for more details in the Week-at-a-Glance
Don Sanderson Gymnasium
If you are unable to attend Registration Day on July 31st, please feel free to contact Tammy Collins at tmcollins@ncsaz.org or 602-978-5134 ext. 514 to make an appointment prior to the first day of school
We are looking forward to another great year at Northwest Christian School!
Sincerely,
Samantha Maszton Middle School Principal/Assistant Superintendent
Jeff
Parsons High School Principal
FROM THE DESKS OF SECONDARY DEAN OF STUDENTS, JIM JAMES
Dear NCS Secondary Families,
I hope everyone is doing well and finding ways to escape the heat! As Secondary Dean of Students, I am tasked with upholding our school’s practices and policies in regards to attendance and discipline Please familiarize yourself with these policies prior to the start of the school year. Below you will find a brief explanation of our philosophy and points of emphasis.
Philosophy
Much of the day to day discipline at NCS is handled using a systematic approach The handbook clearly defines minor violations, major violations, and zero tolerance violations, and prescribes a general course of action as infractions are encountered. Progress and reform are both high priority goals in the implementation of such disciplinary steps Most importantly, the desire for the student to grow in their walk with Jesus Christ through loving discipline is the fundamental aim of the disciplinary policies of NCS.
God clearly establishes boundaries throughout scripture. There are consequences for stepping outside these boundaries. God does not do this because He is overbearing, but rather because He loves us so much and wants us to live abundantly in a right relationship with Him Every boundary, rule, or policy we have at NCS is set in place for the safety of the student, stewardship of our campus, and to provide a Christ-centered atmosphere that is conducive to learning.
Attendance
Punctual and regular attendance at school is necessary for quality education to occur, and is the shared responsibility between the student and his/her parent or guardian. Punctual and regular attendance prepares the student for the world of work and adult responsibilities.
A student may be tardy 3 times to each class per semester without consequence There will be a consequence for each tardy starting on the fourth The progression of consequences is listed in the handbook Tardies are excused only by a note from a doctor, an emergency, or a pass from the previous teacher, admin, or nurse Credit will be lost on the 10th tardy.
A student coming late to class more than 10 minutes through the class is considered absent. The administration has determined that a student who accumulates more than 12 absences (regardless of excused or unexcused) in a given subject in a semester may lose credit for the class. Please submit verification to the school office of any chronic/acute illnesses documented by a physician Class missed for school functions does not count as an absence
Discipline
Minor and major violations are listed in our handbook, as well as the subsequent consequences. Two minor violations per semester are given without consequence However, on the third minor, the progression of consequences will begin. Major violations are subject to immediate disciplinary action.
Thank you so much for your support of our practices and policies at NCS We value the opportunity to partner with you to assist your student to become the person God intended him/her to be. It is my desire for the Dean’s Office to be a safe place for your student to come for help when needing assistance in handling a difficult situation at school You and your student are always welcome to contact me if clarification on any of our philosophies or “boundaries and consequences” are needed.
Partnering in Christ,
Jim James Dean of Students
SECONDARY DRESS CODE REQUIREMENTS
Shirts – All Students
All students are required to wear a solid color or striped polo shirt. Non-offensive logos are acceptable as long as the size of the logo does not exceed the size of a credit card Any brand of solid color or striped polo is acceptable. In addition, any NCS/NC polo is also acceptable (i.e striped golf polo is acceptable). Shirts must be long enough so that if a student’s arms are raised straight above their head, no beltline may be showing. Polo shirts may be purchased from any store as long as the requirements above are met Students may layer shirts under the required polo. Students may wear a sweater or sweatshirt over their polo for warmth; however, no shirt is to be worn over the polo unless it is for warmth.
Pants – All Students
Pants must be of a dress pant, twill/cotton or corduroy material Pants may not be made of spandex, lycra, nylon, rayon or other material that have a tendency to cling to the body. No jeggings are permissible. Jeans are not allowed, nor are pants made of denim or blue jean material. Pants must be of a navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan or brown color only Capri pants or cargo shorts/pants are acceptable Overalls are not acceptable.
Shorts – All Students
Shorts may be worn throughout the school year. Shorts must extend past the fingertips when the student’s arms are fully extended at their side Shorts must be loose-fitting and of a dress pant, twill/cotton, or corduroy material. Shorts may not be made of denim, spandex, lycra, nylon, rayon, mesh, flannel, velour, or terry-cloth. Shorts must be of a navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan or brown color only. Furthermore, shorts must be of a solid and non-extreme color; white is considered an extreme color and is not allowed
Skirts – Girls
Skirts may be worn by girls The skirt must be “uniform style” All skirts must extend past the fingertips when the student’s arms are fully extended at their side Skirts must be of a navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan or brown color. Skirts may be purchased from Dennis Uniforms. These skirts may be navy, blue, khaki tan, or Dennis Uniform approved plaid in color and must meet appropriate length and fit criteria The only plaids permitted are the two from Dennis No other plaids are permitted
On Campus Out-of-Dress Day Guidelines
-No tank tops
-Shorts/Skirt length must be a minimum of a 4 inch inseam
-No yoga pants/leggings
-No holes in jeans, shorts, or skirts
*Modesty is the general rule
Spirit Week Dress Day Guidelines
-No tank tops
-Shorts/Skirt length must be a minimum of a 4 inch inseam
-Yoga pants/leggings may be worn with shorts over top
-No holes above the fingertips in jeans, shorts, or skirts
-Face paint and temporary hair color may be worn during this week if it goes with the dress theme (we encourage you to apply at home)
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 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. 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/or 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
iPAD ACCEPTABLE USE POLICY
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.
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.
● 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 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.
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.
NCS 2024-2025 DRIVER INFORMATION
Student Name Grade
Driver’s License #
*Attachedphotocopy required
Auto Insurance Company
*Attachedphotocopy required
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: Date:
Student’s Signature: Date:
HIGH SCHOOL SUPPLY LISTS
9TH GRADE SUPPLIES
● Bible (Physical ESV)
● 4 packages of loose leaf paper (wide or college ruled)
● Graph paper
● 1 package of colorful Expo markers
● 2 composition notebooks
● A journal
● Earbuds
● 1 highlighter
● 1 portable battery charger (not required, but recommended)
● 2 packages lined index cards (3x5)
● Pens and Pencils
● Colored pencils
● Clear Sheet Sleeves (at least 10)
● 1 package of thin markers (any brand)
● 1 package of 3x3 post it note (100 sheets)
● Several one inch binders w/dividers (5) OR one large 3 inch binder/dividers (5)
● Several one subject spiral notebooks (Five Star brand preferred)
● Hard copy (paper) academic planner of your choice
● TI-84 Calculator (required)
10TH GRADE SUPPLIES
● Bible (Physical ESV)
● 4 packages of loose leaf paper (wide or college ruled)
● Graph paper
● Large 3 ring binders w/ dividers
● College ruled notebook paper
● Pens (black or blue and red)
● Pencils
● Colored Pencils
● Highlighters (3 different colors)
● White-out
● Erasers
● 2 packages index cards (3x5)
● TI-84 Calculator (required)
● Steno or simple notebook for Bible
11TH GRADE SUPPLIES
● Bible (Physical ESV)
● Pencils
● College ruled notebook paper
● Graph Paper
● Pens (black or blue and red)
● Black Ultra Fine Point Sharpie pen or gel pen
● Colored Pencils (Crayola preferred. 12 colors)
● Highlighter (2 colors)
● White-out
● Erasers
● 5 tabbed dividers
● Sticky Notes (1”x1”)
● Ear Phones/Ear Buds
● Correction Tape
● 3- 1” three ring binders
● Clear Sheet Sleeves (at least 10)
● TI-84 Calculator (required)
12TH GRADE SUPPLIES
● Bible (Physical ESV)
● College ruled notebook paper
● Pens (black/blue AND colored)
● Pencils
● Highlighters (3 colors)
● 3- 1 ½” three ring binders
● 100- 3x5 index cards
● Clear Sheet Sleeves (at least 30)
● Tab Dividers (3 sets of 5 tab)
● EarBuds
● Bluetooth Keyboard (Optional)
● TI-84 Calculator (Required)
● Graph Paper
● 1 portable battery charger (not required, but recommended)
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 development- we believe Community Groups provide an outlet for students to connect relationally as they grow spiritually in following Jesus.
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 – FR/SO, Varsity
● D-IV Girls Cross Country - Varsity
● D-IV Boys Cross Country - Varsity
Winter Sports:
● D-IV Girls Cheer – JV, Varsity
● 3A Girls Soccer – JV, Varsity
● 3A Girls Basketball – 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 ATHLETICS- Summer and Clearance Info
HOME OF THE NORTHWEST CHRISTIAN CRUSADERS
HIGHSCHOOLSUMMER2024
All Athletes–speed, conditioning & agility Tuesday & Thursday 6/4-7/18 on the NCS softball field 7:00AM – 8:00 Football is required to do the above conditioning along with the summer weight lifting 4 days a week M-TH this is also open to other sports (July 1st week -Mon wts 7-11 & 1-3, Tue wts 7-11 and no running Rest of the week off Regular schedule resumes july 8 week)
Cheer tryouts for all incoming 9th graders and new to NCS girls in 10th-12th grade
Second HS CHEER tryout - July 29 5:00pm NCS gym
Contact the Athletic Office for the tryout packet, to sign up and get times
HIGHSCHOOL-FALLSEASONBEGINS
High School Cross Country practice 8/5, 2024
High School Volleyball tryouts begin on August 12th , 2024
New yearly sport physicals and RMA clearance is due before you can start the first day
Girls volleyball will hold a highly recommended mini-camp for tryouts Mon & Tues 8/5 & 6 - prior to the Mon tryouts
Sign- ups for season start and tryouts will be at Registration Day in July 31
High School Football begins their official first day of practice –August 5th, 2024
New yearly sport physicals & RMA accounts due before the first day to start
Those invited to July FB camp by Coach Inness will need their physicals in by 7/22 BEFORE you leave for camp 7/23
Summer is a good time to take care of a few things to be ready for ALL seasons of sport High School Winter Season begins the end of October and Spring Season begins early February
Sports Physical
NCS will host a sports physical day July 20th- $25 paid to NCS and the cost will be donated back to your sport SignupGeniuslinkforphysicals- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0D4DADAF23AAFE3-sports3
ATHLETIC CLEARANCE
● All High School Athletes that participate in a sport are required to have a yearly sports physical prior to trying out-these are loaded on the Register My Athlete website.
● ALL Athletes participating in a sport need to have a “Register My Athlete” Account set up online to be cleared to participate the first day. Your physical forms and certificate of completion from the concussion and opoid course will upload here. Link to get started
● Register My Athlete | Northwest Christian School (ncsaz.org)
AIA Requirements to be eligible to participate
All 9th graders and any new student to athletics in 10th-12th grade must take the concussion & opiod course on the AIA website under AIA Academy & Brainbook and upload a copy of the certificate of completion on RMA-(if you did this last year you do not have to retake it)
1) If you are a 9th grader you do not need to fill out any other forms for AIA besides the physical & take the concussion and opiod course 2) If you are a new 10th – 12th grader transferring and plan to try to participate in Athletics you need to fill out a 550 transfer form on the AIA website
3) 10th-12th graders that are transferring in from another school - contact the NCS athletic office for eligibility status
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.
Wednesday, August 7th - Friday, August 9th
HIGH SCHOOL CAMP
This year, High School Camp will kick off the school year Wednesday through Friday of the first week of school! It gives us an opportunity to welcome our new classmates to NCS, introduce the school-wide spiritual theme, and begin to establish our year-long community groups This is an amazing opportunity for us to start the year united together as an entire school.
Location: Lost Canyon Camp, 1450 Perkinsville Rd., Williams, AZ 86046
Cost: High School Camp is included in your registration day fee
Basic Travel Information
● We will be traveling in charter buses to Lost Canyon
● Meet on Wednesday, August 7th at 11:45 am at the Ramadas
● We will be returning to NCS sometime between 1:00 pm and 2:00 pm on Friday, August 9th
Wednesday, Aug 7th
● We will not have high school classes on August 7th
● Students will not be required to come to school prior to 11:30 am
● Any student who arrives prior to the check-in will be asked to wait in the office or room 308
● Camp check-in for students will be at 11:45 am at the Ramadas
● Make sure you eat lunch before you arrive
High School Camp Expectations/Packing List:
Dress code is relaxed, but modest
● Pants, jeans or modest shorts; t-shirts
● Jacket or sweatshirt for mornings and evenings
● Athletic shoes, flip flops, and/or water shoes
● Swimsuit (no two piece swimsuits- guys or girls)
● No earrings for guys, no visible tattoos, no facial piercings
● Lost Canyon will provide Pillow, Pillow Case, Sheets, Blanket & Towel
● Flashlight
● Bible, notebook, pen
● Snacks
● Money for Snack Bar/ Coffee Shop at Lost Canyon
● Clothes for USA Themed Dance/Dinner
● Clothes for Class Colors (9th - Green; 10th - Yellow; 11th - Blue; 12th Pink
● Cell phone – We ask that cell phones be left in the cabin during worship sessions Cell phones may be used during free time, but you should be making memories, not on your phone.
Cabin Policy:
● Male students MAY NOT go into a female student cabin and female students MAY NOT go into male cabins.
● All students are expected to be in their cabins by 11:30 p m each night Lights out by Midnight
● All students are expected to remain in their cabins after lights out until 5:30 a.m. the next morning
● Students who are missing from their cabins on Wednesday night at bed check will be transported back to Phoenix first thing Thursday morning
● Students who are missing from their cabins on Thursday night at bed check will return as scheduled on Friday, but will receive an in-school suspension
● DO NOT LEAVE YOUR CABINS BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 11:30 p m – 5:30 a m
Friday, Aug 9th
● We will
NCS ANNUAL STUDENT TRIP OPPORTUNITIES
ELEMENTARY
3rd Grade - San Diego Floating Lab Trip - March 2025
Description: The annual elementary excursion to San Diego has become a family favorite each Spring Break Centered around time aboard a half-day harbor excursion, the Floating Lab allows students to see the wonders of God’s marine creations up close. The trip also affords families discounted opportunities to visit Sea World and the San Diego Zoo Costs are varied based on the activities and events each family chooses Additional information will become available to families at Back to School Night on August 13, 2024.
5th
Grade Camp
Description: Traveling to a sleep-away camp in northern Arizona, the fifth graders will enjoy a time of fellowship and learning that is centered around a distinctively Christian science-based curriculum. Students will spend two nights at the camp Though the final prices will be determined after some fundraising this fall, historically, the camp has been in the neighborhood of $150 per student Additional information will be provided to families on Back to School Night on August 13, 2024.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
6th through 8th Grades - Serve the City
Description: This is an amazing opportunity for all MS students to serve those in need in our local community! Students spend 2 nights and 3 days together as we serve and partner with various ministries around town to help our fellow community members who are in need.
8th Grade - Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris, Mexico Fall 2024 and Spring 2025
Description: This is a service opportunity for students to experience a culture that is different from ours The goal of the trip is to help give NCS students a new perspective of service in hopes of fostering a love for serving the poor With additional info to follow from 8th grade Bible, the cost of the trip varies but students will be involved in raising their support
8th Grade - End-of-the-Year trip
Description: It is a tradition for many years that 8th grade students end the school year with an exciting event (local or out of town)! Watch your email for more information.
HIGH SCHOOL
9th through 12th Grades - Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris, Mexico, Fall 2023 and Spring 2024
Description: This is a service opportunity for students to experience a culture that is different from ours. The goal of the trip is to help give NCS students a new perspective of service in hopes of fostering a love for serving the poor. With additional info to follow, the cost of the trip varies but students will be involved in raising their support. Additional information regarding the orphanage can be found at: www facebook com/imuriskidskingdom
9th through 12th Grades - Fine & Performing Arts Trip
Description: The every-other-year HS choir trip is an incredible opportunity for high school students to experience major cities around the world. This year’s trip will include musical instruction and performances that speckle the itinerary promoting skill development and a greater appreciation of the arts. For more information, please email Julie Dennis at jdennis@ncsaz org Don’t miss out on this one in a lifetime experience!
2024/2025 MISSION TRIPS!
MEXICO TO KIDS KINGDOM ORPHANGE
HIGH SCHOOL DATES: SEPT 26-29, DEC 14, APRIL 24-27
COST: 275
AGE REQUIREMENT: HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
TEAM CAPACITY: 35 for each trip
TEAM LEADER: MR. GARDINER
CrusadersGO
In keeping with the mission and purpose of NCS “to enable students to develop a Christian world view and prepare them to fulfill their God ordained role in the home, the church, their country, and the world.” We are excited to offer several trips during the school year to support that purpose. Here are the trips offered for 6-12 grades at NCS. To register please visit ncs.managedmissions.com/ourtrips
Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris Sonora has been a light in that community the last 14 years. In that time Arturo and Lilia Jimenez have had the charge of caring for the children in the DIF system as well as families in the surrounding community. NCS has been partnering with Kids Kingdom for the last 10 years and we have built a pretty fantastic relationship. There will be a parent info meeting on Aug 29 at 7:15 a.m. OR 3:15 p.m. in room 203
For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
MEXICO WITH ONE MISSION
DATE: October 17-20
COST: $375
AGE REQUIREMENT: CURRENT HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
TEAM CAPACITY: 24
TEAM LEADER: MR. SOUTHALL
1 Mission is a community development organization that gives people in poverty the opportunity to earn a house by serving their community. This team of students will travel to Rocky Point Mexico and work side by side with a family in the construction of their very own home. The home will be completed by the time the team leaves on Sunday. For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
MEXICO TO KIDS KINGDOM ORPHANGE
8TH GRADE DATES: Oct 31-Nov 3 OR FEB 6-9
COST: 275
AGE REQUIREMENT: CURRENT 8TH GRADERS
TEAM CAPACITY: 30
TEAM LEADER: MR. GARDINER
Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris Sonora has been a light in that community the last 14 years. In that time Arturo and Lilia Jimenez have had the charge of caring for the children in the DIF system as well as families in the surrounding community. NCS has been partnering with Kids Kingdom for the last 10 years and we have built a pretty fantastic relationship. There will be a parent info meeting on Aug 29 at 7:15 a.m. OR 3:15 p.m. in room 203
For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
SERVE THE CITY
DATE: MARCH 4-6
COST: $175
AGE REQUIREMENT: Current 6TH 8TH GRADE STUDENTS
TEAM CAPACITY: 26
TEAM LEADER: MR BURSON
We will be serving together at several local ministries in Phoenix such as St Vincent de Paul, St. Mary’s Food Bank, Phoenix Rescue Mission, Deep Within Rehab etc...We will be staying at a local church and make that our home base.
For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
NCS Middle & High School Clubs
There is a place for you in a Crusader Club! Below is just a sampling of the growing number of clubs that are available to Northwest Christian students. Each Monday, throughout the school year, check your email for dates, times, and details!
NC Amateur Radio Club
HAM radio has proven effective within public safety and emergency response. NCARC offers opportunities to explore different specialties within the ham radio world, making it a hub for those eager to grow in the field.
Wyldlife/YoungLife
The mission of YoungLife and Wyldlife is to introduce adolescents to Jesus Christ. Unlike any other club program in the valley, the NCS chapter of these clubs sees that within dynamic events!
NCS Missions
God has adventure planned for your life and this is the perfect chance to begin discovering it! NCS has numerous missions teams for you to join and to begin training for evangelism, discipleship, service, and, of course, adventure!,
Prayer Warriors
Prayer Warriors brings together high school students with a passion for prayer and the needs of their peers. The group offers weekly support and encouragement to others throughout the school. (HS)
NCS Law Club
Led by an alumni attorney, law club learns the Biblical foundation for law and participates in Mock Trial competitions. (HS)
Off the Page Book Club
The Come & See Creativity Journal
This club pulls together different resources to support high school students during difficult times. Led by an alumni, the club focuses on helping the hurting in our community.
Crusader Archery
For both amateurs and experts, Crusader Archery is meant to be both fun and competitive. Students will learn the basics and compete in tournaments. Expect more info mid-August.
Happy Hands ASL Club
Happy Hands represents a committed group of HS ASL students that are working to make a difference through service in the community of the deaf and hard-of -hearing.
Off the Page works through books of different genres and enjoys stimulating discussions as they savor complimentary lunches together. We have both MS and HS chapters!
Fellowship of Christian Athletes
High school coaches and athletes in pursuit of a deeper relationship with Christ come together once-a-month for fellowship and fun. (HS)
Students For Life
The NCS chapter of Students for Life rallies pro-life middle and high school students in practical support of two local crisis nurse-
NCS Student Ambassadors
The biggest club on campus works to meet the needs of campus visitors through hospitality and service. (HS)
High School Chess Club
“Knights of the Square Table” is for beginners and experts! The club enjoys free food, fellowship, and competitive play as we prepare for AIA matches with other schools.
Crusader eSports
eSports is now an official high school AIA sport. Join other varsity athletes as we take on other high schools around the state towards the first eSports state championship!
NCS Adventure Cru
Return of a legend! Adventure Cru leads high school students through amazing outdoor adventures across the state on a monthly basis. (MS and HS)
WyldLife . . . You were made for this . . .
What is WyldLife?
The WyldLife experience is a middle school version of Young Life open to all NCS Middle School students. In WyldLife, we love middle school kids! They are full of life and yet experiencing profound emotional and physical changes. Middle school is a time when kids make important decisions about who they are and what they believe. And so WyldLife leaders seek to model and express God's love to our young friends by learning their names, hearing their stories and honoring their God-given desire for a life of fun, adventure and purpose.
How do I get information about upcoming events?
Add your email to the WyldLife email distribution list for monthly reminders. The NCS Week at a Glance will have Save the Dates in the Middle School section. Pick up a flyer from Mr. Woods 1 week prior to the event.
How often does WyldLife meet?
1-2 times a month. Come when you can and just have fun.
Where are WyldLife Clubs/Events held?
Clubs are held at a NCS parent’s home. There is no charge and no need to bring anything.
There are a couple of events at Jump Street and Great Skate (these range from $10-$12).
Who runs Clubs/Events?
Mr. Woods and Jr. Leaders (HS and College Leaders)
Where do I see pictures from clubs/events?
Follow NCSWyldLife on Instagram
FCA is a club on campus that is open and welcome to ALL high school students who want to participate.
On average, 50 students from all high school grades meet once a month for HUDDLES where we partake in: FOOD, FUN, & FELLOWSHIP!!
Some families open their homes to host a huddle and some events are held on campus.
Dodgeball, kickball, spikeball, cornhole, movie night, etc are just some of the things we do.
Keep an eye out each month for what FCA is doing.
At registration you can order an FCA shirt for $5. These shirts can be worn to school on the day of an FCA event along with school bottoms.
First event of the year: FCA DODGEBALL – FRIDAY AUGUST 16 6:30 PM
Over 100 students usually show up for dodgeball—fan favorite
FCA VALUES: Our relationships will demonstrate steadfast commitment to Jesus Christ and His Word Integrity, Serving, Teamwork and Excellence
BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS NCS
ONLINE & FLEX NCS
NCS ONLINE LETTER TO FAMILIES
Dear NCS Online Family,
The new school year is just around the corner! We are excited to announce our school theme for this upcoming year as “Living in Light” The theme is based on John 8:12 that says "Again Jesus spoke to them saying 'I am the light of the world whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life '" We are so excited to see how God grows the student body as we ponder this verse. In this packet you will find some helpful information to make the start of the school year a success. Please don’t hesitate to call or email with any questions.
NCS Online Orientation
Monday, August 5th, will kick off the new school year with the NCS Online Orientation The elementary orientation includes a series of videos for parents and learning coaches to watch The secondary orientation includes a series of webinars for parents as well as a student orientation given through our learning management system, Canvas. Students and parents must complete the orientation before classes begin on August 12th. The NCS Online orientation is the best way to set your family up for success for the school year.
The NCS Online Orientation will cover the following topics:
● Welcome
● Get started in Canvas
● Google workspace
● NCS Online policies and procedures
● Study Skills
● And More!
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 July/August
July 31st MS/HS Flex Welcome Day Secondary (6-10th grades) Flex Students
August 2nd-9th Elementary Online Curriculum Pick-up* Elementary (K-5th grades) Online Students
August 5th-9th NCS Online Orientation
August 12th First Day of Online Classes
Location: NCS Gym Please watch your email for information about your designated time slot
Location: NCS Front Office
Online and Flex Students Online - Canvas LMS
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 We are looking forward to another great year at Northwest Christian School!
Sincerely,
Samantha Maszton Assistant Superintendent
Jessica Gake Director of Curriculum and Instruction for Online
Northwest Christian School
Online Calendar 2024-2025
APRIL
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 Recommended Technology
● Printer - recommend for printing worksheets, resources, and learning coach scripts
● Scanner - either a scanner app on a mobile device or a physical scanner
● Headphones
● Webcam
● Microphone
● Second monitor or device to view any digital textbooks
*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
NCS ONLINE - GOOGLE & INSTRUCTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES
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
NCS ONLINE SUGGESTED DAILY SCHEDULE
Having a routine and daily schedule is very important for student success We highly recommend having a daily schedule that you follow to keep you organized and on track with your school work. This is a sample schedule that you can use or adjust as needed. Time frames may need to be altered due to the varying lengths of daily lessons.
K-5th Grade
Please note that ELA will be the largest portion of your day as it encompasses many different subcategories (reading, vocabulary, grammar, writing, spelling, and other foundational skills) Time
8:00 - 8:15 Daily Devotion
8:15 - 9:15 ELA Vocabulary/Reading (5 Min Stretch or Brain Break)
9:15 - 9:45 ELA Spelling/Foundational Skills
9:45 - 10:00 Recess/Break
10:00 - 11:00 ELA Grammar/Writing (5 Min. Stretch or Brain Break)
● Computer - see Minimum Technology Requirements document
● Inexpensive pair of earbuds
● 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)
6th - 8th Grade Supplies
● Computer - see Minimum Technology Requirements document
● Inexpensive pair of earbuds
● NCS Planner (provided)
● 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-10th Grade Supplies
● Computer - see Minimum Technology Requirements document
● Inexpensive pair of earbuds
● 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)
The Middle School facilitators 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. Please have your child’s binder organized for the first day of school in the following manner.
1 Each child should have two 1 5-inch view binders or one 4-inch binder
2. After creating a schedule for your child’s school day, please add dividers and label the tabs of the dividers accordingly:
a. 2 binders: the first 4 classes in the first binder and the last 3 classes in the second binder.
b 1 binder: all 7 classes
3. The last pocket divider in each binder should be labeled “Keep”.
4. 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 should be kept in the student’s study area and used when appropriate
5. Each student should keep their NCS planner with their binder(s) and use it for each class.
NCS K-5 Online
Within the Online Program students are provided content for two weeks at a time to provide flexibility to families if they choose to work ahead. A weekly schedule is provided by the Facilitator to help students progress through the course at an appropriate rate We recommend that students complete assignments daily, but parents may choose to turn in assignments to the facilitator by the weekly due date in the learning management system. Math assignments may be required to be turned in daily in order for the facilitator to provide feedback and ensure that students are making adequate progress. Work turned in after the due date may result in a 10% deduction in points the following day and given no credit on the second day after it was due All work must be submitted, whether or not it is given credit, as the learning of content resulting in grades is reflective of a student’s achievement, not simply of the grades earned If an assignment earns less than 73% for a grade, a student may redo and make up the work to earn up to a 75% for a grade in order to provide the opportunity to master the content. If an assignment is redone it must be submitted within a week of the original due date. No work may be given credit for a redo after that date. No other “redos’ will be considered to raise grades.
Exceptions
When there are extenuating circumstances the student/family must contact the facilitator or area principal to discuss the circumstances to determine how each situation might be handled.
Secondary: Grades 6-10
NCS Online is an asynchronous program that allows flexibility to complete school work from anywhere in the world Regular participation is required to ensure academic success within the program The student is expected to complete work daily in each course. Lessons are published weekly with due dates and a task list for the week. The student must submit work by the due dates set in each course. Because the program is asynchronous, no exceptions will be made for planned absences such as vacations or appointments. Students are encouraged to work ahead to prepare for planned absences. For specific questions related to upcoming work, please contact each facilitator directly The student may be required to repeat the grade if academic readiness is not evident
Each assignment is given a due date in the learning management system. If an assignment is not submitted by its posted due date, the grade may be recorded as a 0 in the grade book. The student will be given until the following Sunday at 11:59 PM to make up the assignment without penalty after which the assignment will remain a 0
Long-term projects are expected to be turned in on their original assigned date and time. If a situation calls for an exception to this policy, the student must contact the facilitator before the long-term project is due.
Exceptions
To excuse any unexpected absence (i.e. sickness, bereavement, etc), a parent(s)/guardian(s) must email the student’s facilitators. Students will have the number of days they are absent plus one to make up any absent work Communication is of the utmost importance in the case of unforeseen absences
NCS FLEX - 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)
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 Wrestling (6th, 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)
Sports Fee:
The Middle School sports fee is $75.00 per sport per season with the exception of football which is $125.00
Fall Try-Outs:
Football equipment handout if in town - Saturday August 3, 2024 Football begins the first day of school Aug 5.
Try-outs for girls volleyball - 7th & 8th grade Tue & Thu 8/6 & 8/8. 6th grade Wed 8/07 & Fri 8/09 Tryouts for soccer and cheer will begin the second week of school TBD.
Sign ups for fall athletics will be at Registration Day 7/31. Specific tryout info will be available then
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.
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 – FR/SO, Varsity
● D-IV Girls Cross Country - Varsity
● D-IV Boys Cross Country - Varsity
Winter Sports:
● D-IV Girls Cheer – JV, Varsity
● 3A Girls Soccer – JV, Varsity
● 3A Girls Basketball – 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.
HOME OF THE NORTHWEST CHRISTIAN CRUSADERS
HIGHSCHOOLSUMMER2024
All Athletes–speed, conditioning & agility Tuesday & Thursday 6/4-7/18 on the NCS softball field 7:00AM – 8:00 Football is required to do the above conditioning along with the summer weight lifting 4 days a week M-TH this is also open to other sports (July 1st week -Mon wts 7-11 & 1-3, Tue wts 7-11 and no running Rest of the week off Regular schedule resumes july 8 week)
Cheer tryouts for all incoming 9th graders and new to NCS girls in 10th-12th grade
Second HS CHEER tryout - July 29 5:00pm NCS gym
Contact the Athletic Office for the tryout packet, to sign up and get times
HIGHSCHOOL-FALLSEASONBEGINS
High School Cross Country practice 8/5, 2024
High School Volleyball tryouts begin on August 12th , 2024
New yearly sport physicals and RMA clearance is due before you can start the first day
Girls volleyball will hold a highly recommended mini-camp for tryouts Mon & Tues 8/5 & 6 - prior to the Mon tryouts
Sign- ups for season start and tryouts will be at Registration Day in July 31
High School Football begins their official first day of practice –August 5th, 2024
New yearly sport physicals & RMA accounts due before the first day to start
Those invited to July FB camp by Coach Inness will need their physicals in by 7/22 BEFORE you leave for camp 7/23
Summer is a good time to take care of a few things to be ready for ALL seasons of sport High School Winter Season begins the end of October and Spring Season begins early February
Sports Physical
NCS will host a sports physical day July 20th- $25 paid to NCS and the cost will be donated back to your sport SignupGeniuslinkforphysicals- https://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0D4DADAF23AAFE3-sports3
ATHLETIC CLEARANCE
● All High School Athletes that participate in a sport are required to have a yearly sports physical prior to trying out-these are loaded on the Register My Athlete website.
● ALL Athletes participating in a sport need to have a “Register My Athlete” Account set up online to be cleared to participate the first day. Your physical forms and certificate of completion from the concussion and opoid course will upload here. Link to get started
● Register My Athlete | Northwest Christian School (ncsaz.org)
AIA Requirements to be eligible to participate
All 9th graders and any new student to athletics in 10th-12th grade must take the concussion & opiod course on the AIA website under AIA Academy & Brainbook and upload a copy of the certificate of completion on RMA-(if you did this last year you do not have to retake it)
1) If you are a 9th grader you do not need to fill out any other forms for AIA besides the physical & take the concussion and opiod course 2) If you are a new 10th – 12th grader transferring and plan to try to participate in Athletics you need to fill out a 550 transfer form on the AIA website
3) 10th-12th graders that are transferring in from another school - contact the NCS athletic office for eligibility status.
ONLINE 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 events on-campus must abide by the on-campus dress code.
Elementary K - 5th On-Campus Dress Code
● Shorts, slacks , & capris
○ Black, navy blue & tan only
○ Heavy cotton or twill fabric only
○ Shorts length - fingertips to the bend on the knees
○ Cargo shorts are permitted (not cargo pants)
○ No overalls or jeans
○ No brand restriction on cargo shorts
○ Leggings are not permitted
○ Fingertip length
● Jumpers, skirts and skorts
○ Black, navy blue, & tan only
○ Cotton fabric only (no jersey or polo shirt fabric)
○ Approved Dennis uniform or Educational Outfitters plaids (there are only two)
○ Fingertip length
○ Polo Dresses are acceptable, solid color.
● Shirts
○ Button polo (no snaps, zippers, laces)
○ Polo shirts can be layered
○ Any one solid color
○ Logos smaller than a credit card
● Footwear
○ Tennis/athletic shoes only (no wheels)
○ Shoes are to be laced tightly and tied securely
● Hats
○ May be worn outside for protection from the sun They may not be worn in the classroom or any other school building. Any logo needs to be smaller than a credit card.
● Hair
○ Needs to be the students’ natural color.
○ When combed out, boys must show earlobes, collars and eyebrows.
○ No extreme hairstyles.
General: During “dress down” days students must comply with the basic dress code of covering necessities and length of shorts and skirts. No torn pants/jeans/clothing may be worn during dress down days. Most dress down days occur on Fridays.
ONLINE DRESS CODE
Secondary 6 - 10th On-Campus Dress Code
Shirts – All Students
All students are required to wear a solid color or striped polo shirt. Non-offensive logos are acceptable as long as the size of the logo does not exceed the size of a credit card Any brand of solid color or striped polo is acceptable In addition, any NCS/NC polo is also acceptable (i e striped golf polo is acceptable) Shirts must be long enough so that if a student’s arms are raised straight above their head, no beltline may be showing. Polo shirts may be purchased from any store as long as the requirements above are met Students may layer shirts under the required polo Students may wear a sweater or sweatshirt over their polo for warmth; however, no shirt is to be worn over the polo unless it is for warmth.
Pants – All Students
Pants must be of a dress pant, twill/cotton or corduroy material Pants may not be made of spandex, lycra, nylon, rayon or other material that have a tendency to cling to the body. No jeggings are permissible. Jeans are not allowed, nor are pants made of denim or blue jean material. Pants must be of a navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan or brown color only Capri pants or cargo shorts/pants are acceptable Overalls are not acceptable
Shorts – All Students
Shorts may be worn throughout the school year. Shorts must extend past the fingertips when the student’s arms are fully extended at their side Shorts must be loose-fitting and of a dress pant, twill/cotton, or corduroy material Shorts may not be made of denim, spandex, lycra, nylon, rayon, mesh, flannel, velour, or terry-cloth. Shorts must be of a navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan or brown color only. Furthermore, shorts must be of a solid and non-extreme color; white is considered an extreme color and is not allowed
Skirts – Girls
Skirts may be worn by girls. The skirt must be “uniform style”. All skirts must extend past the fingertips when the student’s arms are fully extended at their side. Skirts must be of a navy blue, gray, black, khaki green, khaki tan or brown color Skirts may be purchased from Dennis Uniforms These skirts may be navy, blue, khaki tan, or Dennis Uniform approved plaid in color and must meet appropriate length and fit criteria. The only plaids permitted are the two from Dennis. No other plaids are permitted.
On Campus Out-of-Dress Day Guidelines
-No tank tops
-Shorts/Skirt length must be a minimum of a 4 inch inseam
-No yoga pants/leggings
-No holes in jeans, shorts, or skirts
*Modesty is the general rule
Spirit Week Dress Day Guidelines
-No tank tops
-Shorts/Skirt length must be a minimum of a 4 inch inseam
-Yoga pants/leggings may be worn with shorts over top
-No holes above the fingertips in jeans, shorts, or skirts
-Face paint and temporary hair color may be worn during this week if it goes with the dress theme (we encourage you to apply at home)
-No type of weapon (Real or Fake) is allowed
*Modesty is the general rule
Dress code issues related to modesty and/or judgment calls are at the discretion of the faculty and administration Modesty is the priority
Specific days and number of weeks will be available via online registration the first week of August.
Jr. Robotics
The Bricks 4 Kidz Junior Robotics class offers all the fun of building with our B4K Lego® Bricks, plus the challenge of computer programming! WeDo 2.0, a drag-and-drop, icon based program is used to introduce kids to computer programming and robotics! Grades K-3
Chapel Cherubs
Unlike other clubs, this club meets sporadically throughout the year. This club is an opportunity for those kids who love to praise the Lord through movement and music! Mrs Barrett will enthusiastically lead this group of children to use the Holy Spirit's power and presence in singing praises to the Lord during four to five elementary school chapels, beginning in October-May. Dates are TBD. Grades 1-5
Crafting with Mrs. Burke
Each week students will get to create a craft and take it home. Grades 3-5
STEM with Ms. Pfitzinger
Encourages students to prepare for future success in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Fun activities include: Engineering Challenge, Chemical Reactions, Pipeline Challenge, Ice Cream, Tumbling Towers, Marble Races, Circuits, and more. Grades 3-5
Little Veterinarian School
Section I: After “adopting” their very own plush puppy, students will role-play the key responsibilities of a veterinarian, including how to properly perform a nose-to-tail exam. These future veterinarians will learn how to sew stitches, remove ticks, make healthy treats, and vaccinate their dog. Grades K-5
Little Doctor School
Section I: Basic anatomy, medical instruments and prepping for surgery. Through role-play and activities, students will learn the key responsibilities of a doctor and explore the heart, lungs, and digestion. Students will use real medical instruments (stethoscope, reflex hammer, and blood pressure cuff) and practice scrubbing, suturing, and tying knots like a real surgeon. Grades K-5
Running Club
This running club is designed to help our students become stronger, faster, and smarter runners. 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.
ASAP CLUBS FOR FALL 2024 (CONTINUED)
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
STEM Robotics by STEM LABS
Level 1: Robotics Fundamentals
Neotech mission is to build a global STEM labs platform for students to learn, build and express their ideas. Most importantly, learn it as fun. We focus on hands-on learning with real-world applications. The curriculum is built around 5 principles - Leadership, Teamwork, Problem-Solving, Creativity & Learning it as a Fun. Grades 3-6
Homework Club
Mrs. Roman and high school helpers will give students extra help with practicing spelling words, Bible verses, vocabulary, extra AR time and assistance with any worksheets or assignments. This is not individual tutoring. Grades 2-5
PE Play
If you love PE class, then this is the club for you! 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
Snazzy Snacks
Students will create kid-friendly recipes and enjoy eating what they create! Grades K-5
Specific days and weeks will be available via online registration the first week of August.
As Seen on Pintrest
As Seen on Pinterest Club-- Come join Mrs Coughlin as we make fun crafts from Pinterest! We will work with clay, paint, crochet, and make other fun projects you get to take home with you!
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
Senor Superheroes by STEM Labs
Semester 1: Sensor Skills: Delved into the fascinating world of sensors, unlocking their potential for real-world applications.
Semester 2: : Ocean Conservation Project: Champions of ocean conservation! Their robots tackled critical challenges – removing trash, cleaning up oil spills, rescuing animals from fishing nets, and even assisting stranded passengers – promoting environmental responsibility through robotics Throughout this journey, we fostered a learning environment built on five core principles:
Leadership: Students developed their confidence to guide and inspire their teams.
Teamwork: Collaboration and communication became key pillars of their success.
Problem-solving: From planning to execution, students learned to approach challenges with creative solutions
Creativity: Their imagination fueled robot design and innovative solutions. Fun: Above all, we ensured that learning robotics was an engaging and enjoyable experience! Grades 6-8
Amateur Radio Club
This club will help students learn the necessary skills for obtaining FCC amateur radio license. Students will learn about the radio arts through a multitude of science, technology, and math-related fields directly and indirectly related to amateur radio. Students may also participate in the Northwest Christian Amateur Radio Club (NCARC) Students will also be able to study for and (hopefully) pass the FCC Amateur Radio License (no fee charged) Open to all 6th to 8th Grade
NCS FLEX - NATIONAL ELEMENTARY HONOR SOCIETY
NCS is proud to continue with the work of the 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 invited guests to honor these highly excelling students.
Select elementary teachers will serve as the NCS Advisors to the NCS Chapter of the National Elementary Honor Society.
NCS FLEX - 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
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.
Middle School Impact Groups
Here at Northwest Christian School, we are blessed to be a part of a community where students are living in Christian homes, involved in the local church, and attending a Christian school However, we know that students within the age range of 10-15 years old are forming their own opinions about faith and what they believe. As a way of partnering with our families, each middle school student is part of an Impact Group. These groups are composed of a teacher and a small group of kids of the same-gender and same grade level with the simple goal of building meaningful relationships.
Every Wednesday following Chapel, Impact Groups are dismissed to head to their chosen destination on campus. Here teachers have an opportunity to follow-up on Chapel with discussion questions and get to know their group of kids outside of the classroom setting. This may look like Just Dance, Extreme Pictionary, Minute to Win It Games, or Relays but all of it intentionally serves a much deeper purpose. It’s a time for our kids to see us cheering them on, excited that they are “ours” and on our team a time to build meaningful relationships We are privileged to develop relationships with students, build community and walk them through this stage of life as they enter into a deeper relationship with Christ
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 development- we believe Community Groups provide an outlet for students to connect relationally as they grow spiritually in following Jesus.
FLEX - NCS
ANNUAL STUDENT TRIP OPPORTUNITIES
ELEMENTARY
3rd and 4th Grade - San Diego Floating Lab Trip
Description: The annual elementary excursion to San Diego has become a family favorite each Spring Break Centered around time aboard a half-day harbor excursion the Floating Lab allows students to see the wonders of God’s marine creations up close. The trip affords families discounted opportunities to visit a creation museum, Scripps Aquarium, and the San Diego Zoo Costs are varied based upon the activities and events each family chooses. Additional information will become available to families in September.
5th Grade Camp
Description: Traveling to a sleep-away camp in northern Arizona, the fifth graders will enjoy a time of fellowship and learning that is centered around a distinctively Christian science-based curriculum. Students will spend two nights at the camp Though the final prices will be determined after some fundraising this fall, historically, the camp has been in the neighborhood of $150 per student
MIDDLE SCHOOL
6th through 8th Grades - Serve the City
Description: This is an amazing opportunity for all MS students to serve those in need in our local community! Students spend 2 nights and 3 days together as we serve and partner with various ministries around town to help our fellow community members who are in need.
8th Grade - Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris, Mexico Fall 2024 and Spring 2025
Description: This is a service opportunity for students to experience a culture that is different from ours The goal of the trip is to help give NCS students a new perspective of service in hopes of fostering a love for serving the poor. With additional info to follow from 8th grade Bible, the cost of the trip varies but students will be involved in raising their support
8th Grade - End-of-the-Year trip
Description: It is a tradition for many years that 8th grade students end the school year with an exciting event (local or out of town)! Watch your email for more information
HIGH SCHOOL
9th through 12th Grades - Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris, Mexico, Fall 2024 and Spring 2025
Description: This is a service opportunity for students to experience a culture that is different from ours. The goal of the trip is to help give NCS students a new perspective of service in hopes of fostering a love for serving the poor With additional info to follow, the cost of the trip varies but students will be involved in raising their support. Additional information regarding the orphanage can be found at: www.facebook.com/imuriskidskingdom
9th through 12th Grades - Fine & Performing Arts Trip
Description: The every-other-year HS choir trip is an incredible opportunity for high school students to experience major cities around the world This year’s trip will include musical instruction and performances that speckle the itinerary promoting skill development and a greater appreciation of the arts. For more information, please email Melissa McGuire at mmcguire@ncsaz.org. Don’t miss out on this one in a lifetime experience!
2024/2025 MISSION TRIPS!
MEXICO TO KIDS KINGDOM ORPHANGE
HIGH SCHOOL DATES: SEPT 26-29, DEC 14, APRIL 24-27
COST: 275
AGE REQUIREMENT: HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
TEAM CAPACITY: 35 for each trip
TEAM LEADER: MR. GARDINER
CrusadersGO
In keeping with the mission and purpose of NCS “to enable students to develop a Christian world view and prepare them to fulfill their God ordained role in the home, the church, their country, and the world.” We are excited to offer several trips during the school year to support that purpose. Here are the trips offered for 6-12 grades at NCS. To register please visit ncs.managedmissions.com/ourtrips
Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris Sonora has been a light in that community the last 14 years. In that time Arturo and Lilia Jimenez have had the charge of caring for the children in the DIF system as well as families in the surrounding community. NCS has been partnering with Kids Kingdom for the last 10 years and we have built a pretty fantastic relationship. There will be a parent info meeting on Aug 29 at 7:15 a.m. OR 3:15 p.m. in room 203
For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
MEXICO WITH ONE MISSION
DATE: October 17-20
COST: $375
AGE REQUIREMENT: CURRENT HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
TEAM CAPACITY: 24
TEAM LEADER: MR. SOUTHALL
1 Mission is a community development organization that gives people in poverty the opportunity to earn a house by serving their community. This team of students will travel to Rocky Point Mexico and work side by side with a family in the construction of their very own home. The home will be completed by the time the team leaves on Sunday. For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
MEXICO TO KIDS KINGDOM ORPHANGE
8TH GRADE DATES: Oct 31-Nov 3 OR FEB 6-9
COST: 275
AGE REQUIREMENT: CURRENT 8TH GRADERS
TEAM CAPACITY: 30
TEAM LEADER: MR. GARDINER
Kids Kingdom Orphanage in Imuris Sonora has been a light in that community the last 14 years. In that time Arturo and Lilia Jimenez have had the charge of caring for the children in the DIF system as well as families in the surrounding community. NCS has been partnering with Kids Kingdom for the last 10 years and we have built a pretty fantastic relationship. There will be a parent info meeting on Aug 29 at 7:15 a.m. OR 3:15 p.m. in room 203
For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
SERVE THE CITY
DATE: MARCH 4-6
COST: $175
AGE REQUIREMENT: Current 6TH 8TH GRADE STUDENTS
TEAM CAPACITY: 26
TEAM LEADER: MR BURSON
We will be serving together at several local ministries in Phoenix such as St Vincent de Paul, St. Mary’s Food Bank, Phoenix Rescue Mission, Deep Within Rehab etc...We will be staying at a local church and make that our home base.
For more information please email Chris Gardiner cgardiner@ncsaz.org
WyldLife . . . You were made for this . . .
What is WyldLife?
The WyldLife experience is a middle school version of Young Life open to all NCS Middle School students. In WyldLife, we love middle school kids! They are full of life and yet experiencing profound emotional and physical changes. Middle school is a time when kids make important decisions about who they are and what they believe. And so WyldLife leaders seek to model and express God's love to our young friends by learning their names, hearing their stories and honoring their God-given desire for a life of fun, adventure and purpose.
How do I get information about upcoming events?
Add your email to the WyldLife email distribution list for monthly reminders. The NCS Week at a Glance will have Save the Dates in the Middle School section. Pick up a flyer from Mr. Woods 1 week prior to the event.
How often does WyldLife meet?
1-2 times a month. Come when you can and just have fun.
Where are WyldLife Clubs/Events held?
Clubs are held at a NCS parent’s home. There is no charge and no need to bring anything.
There are a couple of events at Jump Street and Great Skate (these range from $10-$12).
Who runs Clubs/Events?
Mr. Woods and Jr. Leaders (HS and College Leaders)
Where do I see pictures from clubs/events?
Follow NCSWyldLife on Instagram
FCA is a club on campus that is open and welcome to ALL high school students who want to participate.
On average, 50 students from all high school grades meet once a month for HUDDLES where we partake in: FOOD, FUN, & FELLOWSHIP!!
Some families open their homes to host a huddle and some events are held on campus.
Dodgeball, kickball, spikeball, cornhole, movie night, etc are just some of the things we do.
Keep an eye out each month for what FCA is doing.
At registration you can order an FCA shirt for $5. These shirts can be worn to school on the day of an FCA event along with school bottoms.
First event of the year: FCA DODGEBALL – FRIDAY AUGUST 16 6:30 PM
Over 100 students usually show up for dodgeball—fan favorite
FCA VALUES: Our relationships will demonstrate steadfast commitment to Jesus Christ and His Word Integrity, Serving, Teamwork and Excellence
