20 26 TA F
MAY 13, 2026
FESTIVAL OF
Welcome to Valley Christian Schools’ Festival of the Arts 2026!
There is something truly special about the moments when our entire Valley Christian community comes together in one place. Opportunities like this do not come often, and Festival of the Arts serves as a powerful reminder of the unique and vibrant artistic culture that spans our entire school community.
While we are so grateful for the wonderful experiences we shared over the past three years at the Mountain Winery, we are excited to return home to the Skyway Campus for this year’s Festival of the Arts. This evening reflects both the strength of what is already happening across our Conservatory and the promising future taking shape for the arts on the Skyway Campus as we seek to further establish Valley Christian as a leading voice for arts education in the Bay Area.
The 2025–2026 school year has been filled with extraordinary moments across our campuses. From stage productions including Treasure Island, Radium Girls, A Charlie Brown Christmas, Dare to Dream, My Fair Lady, and Willy Wonka KIDS; to our Emerge and Emotions dance productions; to milestone music events like Christmas at the California and An Evening of Note, along with the upcoming inaugural Conservatory Concerto Competition Winners Concert at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, our students share their gifts in ways that enrich and strengthen the life of our school.
At the heart of it all is a shared commitment to cultivating both excellence and purpose, grounded in the belief that our gifts are ultimately meant to honor God and serve something greater than ourselves. Tonight’s program reflects that spirit of growth, gratitude, and celebration, showcasing the remarkable breadth of artistry across our school community, from our youngest students just beginning to discover their creative voice to our most advanced artists who have spent years refining their craft.
Thank you for joining us for this special evening. I hope you leave encouraged by the extraordinary gifts of our students and inspired by the creativity, dedication, and beauty they bring to our community through the arts.
Warmly,
Troy Gunter VP/Director of K-12 Conservatory of the Arts
OF THE A RTS
FOOTBALL STADIUM
5:30pm K-5 Music
OUTDOOR STAGE
5:00pm JH Jazz Band
6:15pm HS Jazz Combos
6:45pm HS Jazz Ensemble
7:30pm HS Senior Showcase (Non-Piano)
8:00pm JH & HS Vocal Spotlight
CHAPEL
4:30pm JH & HS Piano Recital
5:30pm HS Chamber
6:45pm EL Piano Recital
STUDENT LIFE CENTER
4:00-9:00pm Visual Art Exhibit
5:00pm Fellows Reception (Private Event)
MAIN GYM
5:00pm JH Drums
5:30pm HS Percussion
7:00pm JH Bands 8:00pm HS Bands
CONSERVATORY HALL
6:30pm 5th-Grade Handchimes
7:00pm JH Strings 8:00pm HS Strings
THEATRE
4:00pm The Happy Fun Time Show Student Musical by Joshua Prabhakar
7:00pm JH Choir, HS Choir, and Advanced Vocal Ensemble
Schedule of Events
Time Group Location
4:00pm The Happy Fun Time Show Student Musical by Joshua Prabhakar Theatre
4:00pm Visual Art Exhibit Student Life Center
4:30pm JH & HS Piano Recital Chapel
5:00pm Fellows Reception (Private Event) Student Life Center
5:00pm JH Jazz Band Outdoor Stage
5:00pm JH Drums Main Gym
5:30pm K-5 Music Football Stadium
5:30pm HS Chamber Chapel
5:30pm HS Percussion Main Gym
6:15pm HS Jazz Combos Outdoor Stage
6:30pm 5th-Grade Handchimes Conservatory Hall
6:45pm HS Jazz Ensemble Outdoor Stage
6:45pm EL Piano Recital Chapel
7:00pm JH Bands Main Gym
7:00pm JH Strings Conservatory Hall
7:00pm JH Choir, HS Conservatory Chorus, and HS Advanced Vocal Ensemble Theatre
7:30pm HS Senior Showcase (Non-Piano) Outdoor Stage
8:00pm HS Bands Main Gym
8:00pm HS Strings Conservatory Hall
8:00pm JH & HS Vocal Spotlight Outdoor Stage
Congratulations, Class of 2026
“I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy… Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Philippians 1:3-6).
“It’s time now to sing out Though the story never ends Let’s celebrate Remember a year in the life of friends Remember the love Measure in love”
From Seasons of Love
Lyrics by Jonathan D. Larson
K-5 MUSIC at the Football Stadium
Greeting & Welcome
Mr. Troy Gunter
Opening Prayer
Mr. Brian Clemons (’87)
My Hope is in The Lord by Jay Stocker
Music from Mary Poppins by Richard M. Sherman and Robert B. Sherman
Arranged by Cristi Cary Miller and Jesse Marlin
Featuring K-3 Elementary Choir, 4th-Grade Choir, 4-5 Band and Strings
Narration by Tiffany Hormozian
Chim Chim Cher-ee
Narration by Dorothy Williams
Step in Time
Narration by Davis Dries
Let’s Go Fly a Kite
Narration by Stella Boekestein
A Spoonful of Sugar
Narration by Will Conway
I Love to Laugh
Narration by Cyrus Yang
Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious
Narration by Lila Foster
Your Way's Better by Forrest Frank
Closing Comments & Dismissal
Dr. Gabe Guven
Conservatory Administration, Music Faculty, and Staff
CONSERVATORY LEADERSHIP
Mr. Troy Gunter
VP/Director of K-12 Conservatory of the Arts tgunter@vcs.net
Mr. Britt Gunter
Associate Director of Conservatory Programs bgunter@vcs.net
Dr. Ivan Utomo
Associate Director and Worship Arts Director, Conservatory of the Arts iutomo@vcs.net
Mrs. Michelle McLaughlin
Associate Director of Student Learning mmclaughlin@vcs.net
Mrs. Dena Armeniakos Director of Conservatory Operations, Finance Manager darmeniakos@vcs.net
CONSERVATORY DIRECTORS
Mrs. Jill Carlson
K-12 Director of Visual Arts jcarlson@vcs.net
Mrs. Myra Kaelin (’94)
K-12 Director of Theatre Arts mkaelin@vcs.net
Mrs. Michelle McLaughlin
K-12 Director of Dance Arts mmclaughlin@vcs.net
Mr. Iain Roush
K-12 Director of Media Arts iroush@vcs.net
Mr. Jeffrey Wilson K-12 Director of Music Arts jwilson@vcs.net
CONSERVATORY MUSIC FACULTY
Mrs. Elizabeth (Lin ’14) Chang Piano Studies echang@vcs.net
Mr. Reggie Coates Guitar Studies rcoates@vcs.net
Miss Katelyn Dietz (’14) Woodwind Studies kdietz@vcs.net
Mrs. Samantha Elliott Elementary Music selliott@vcs.net
Mr. Britt Gunter Choral Studies bgunter@vcs.net
Mrs. Melissa Gunter Piano Studies mgunter@vcs.net
Mrs. Lily Homer Strings Studies lhomer@vcs.net
Dr. Scott Homer Strings Studies shomer@vcs.net
Dr. Michael Jones Brass Studies mjones@vcs.net
Dr. Shane Ryan (’16)
Brass Studies
sryan@vcs.net
Mr. David Sankus
Percussion Studies
dsankus@vcs.net
CONSERVATORY OPERATIONS & SUPPORT
Mrs. Colette Evans
Mr. William Fonda
Ms. Judi Fuller
Dr. Mark Hulse
Mrs. Ming Lo
Mrs. Lianne Rydquist
Mr. Duke Shrader (’17)
Mrs. Maribeth Wiens
Miss Cristina Zepeda
Mr. Justin McPherson (’07)
Mr. Robert Rubino
Conservatory Honors Fellows
2026-2027
Mia Arreola (Visual Arts)
Terri Choi (Music)
Ashlee Concepcion (Dance)
Leilani DeVore (Visual Arts)
AnaRose Flenniken (Visual Arts)
Jason Ham (Music)
Joshua Hsieh (Music)
Ginger Kaelin (Theatre)
Aiden Kim (Music)
Lumi Kim (Music)
Aanya Kothiyal (Visual Arts)
Aidan Kwon (Music)
Daniel Li (Music)
Ethan Li (Music)
Aria Liu (Dance)
Karen Matsui (Music)
Sophia Morais (Theatre)
Cailyn Park (Visual Arts)
Ashley Pham (Theatre)
Serena She (Music)
Rayce Snyder (Media)
Makena Suekawa (Dance)
Jacob Thomas (Theatre)
Landon Tsang (Dance)
Ellie Wong (Dance)
Ethan Wong (Music)
Meining Wu (Music)
Aeneas Yu (Music)
Grace Zhu (Visual Arts)
If you wish to apply to the Valley Christian High School's Conservatory Honors program, please visit vcs.net/conservatoryapply
with special alumni guest
marimba violin piano piano
The Summit Series
ABOUT THE SERIES
The Summit Series brings world-class artists and master teachers to VCS Conservatory for a season of one-on-one lessons, masterclasses, workshops, and performances. Our students work directly with GRAMMY® Award winners, faculty from the country’s leading conservatories, and the world’s top soloists, gaining the kind of mentorship and perspective that shapes a serious musical education. We invite you to join us this season of extraordinary music!
AFFIRMING THE ARTS
Spring 2026
Jan 24.............................. West Coast Elite Dance Competition - HS Dance
Jan 31................................ Conservatory Concerto Competition Finals Round - HS Music
Mar 5-7............................. 11-14 My Fair Lady - HS Theatre
Mar 26-28......................... Dare to Dream Jr. - A Disney Musical Revue - JH Theatre
Mar 30.............................. Spring Chamber Recital - JH/HS Chambers
Mar 31............................... Serenade to Spring - JH/HS Strings
Apr 18............................... An Evening of Note - K-12 Music
Apr 22.............................. Faith, Hope, and Love - JH/HS Choirs
Apr 23............................. Percussion Extravaganza - JH Drums/HS Percussion
Apr 23-25........................ Emotions: Sitcoms - HS Dance
Apr 30-May 2.................. Experiments in Comedy & Tragedy - HS Theatre
May 4-15.......................... Art Show - EL Art
May 8-9............................ Willy Wonka KIDS - EL Theatre
May 11.............................. Theatre & Dance Senior Showcase - HS Conservatory
May 12-15......................... Art Show and Visual Art Senior Showcase - JH/HS Art
May 13.............................. Festival of the Arts and Music Senior Showcase - K-12 Music
May 21-23......................... DanceScapes: Under the Big Top - EL/JH Dance
May 24............................. Conservatory Concerto Competition Winners Concert - HS Music
Grace Zhu (’27)
SUMMER ELEMENTARY BAND CAMP
for students entering 4th-5th grade
Friends • Music • Memories
Dates June 1-5 (Monday-Friday)
Time 8:30am-12pm
Cost $275
Grades
Entering Grades 4-5 (Co-Ed)
Location
Skyway Conservatory 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Instructors
Mr. Jeff Wilson
Dr. Shane Ryan (’16)
Miss Katelyn Dietz (’14)
The Elementary Band Camp offers rising fourth and fifth graders the opportunity to play a band instrument, including the flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, drums, and more. The camp welcomes both beginners and students with more experience and includes some fun activities along the way.
A short concert will occur on Friday, June 5 at 11:30am.
Note: All are welcome. Instruments are available to borrow.
EL Band Camp/PIE JR. Camp - DISCOUNT BUNDLE!
Bundle both EL Band Camp and PIE JR. Camp for a $50 discount savings.
Dates: June 1-5 (8:30am-12pm) / June 8-12 (9am-4pm)
Performance on Friday, June 12 at 3pm.
Note: Performers should wear comfortable athletic clothing and shoes. Snacks provided. Pack your own lunch.
SUMMER JUNIOR HIGH BAND CAMP
JUNE
1-5, 2026
for students entering 6th-8th grade
Friends • Music • Memories
Dates June 1-5 (Monday-Friday)
Time 8:30am-12pm
Cost $275
Grades
Entering Grades 6-8 (Co-Ed)
Location
Skyway Conservatory 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Instructors
Mr. Jeff Wilson
Dr. Shane Ryan (’16) Miss Katelyn Dietz (’14)
The Junior High Band Camp is an opportunity for students to begin their journey of learning a band instrument. It is also designed for students with experience who want to improve their skills on traditional band instruments, including the flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, drums, and more. All experience levels are welcome, from beginners to advanced junior high-aged students. Our goal is to make music and have fun with friends.
A short concert will occur on Friday, June 5 at 11:30am.
Note: All are welcome. Instruments are available to borrow.
JH Band Camp/PIE JR. Camp - DISCOUNT BUNDLE!
Bundle both JH Band Camp and PIE JR. Camp for a $50 discount savings.
Dates: June 1-5 (8:30am-12pm) / June 8-12 (9am-4pm)
Performance on Friday, June 12 at 3pm.
Note: Performers should wear comfortable athletic clothing and shoes. Snacks provided. Pack your own lunch.
SUMMER HIGH SCHOOL BAND CAMP
for students entering 9th-12th grade
Friends • Music • Memories
Dates June 1-5 (Monday-Friday)
Time 8:30am-12pm
Cost
$275
Grades
Entering Grades 9-12 (Co-Ed)
Location
Skyway Conservatory 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Instructors
Mr. Jeff Wilson
Dr. Shane Ryan (’16)
Miss Katelyn Dietz (’14)
The High School Band Camp is an opportunity for students to start their journey of learning a band instrument. It is also designed for students with experience who want to improve their skills on traditional band instruments, including the flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, tuba, drums, and more. All experience levels are welcome, from beginners to advanced high school-aged students. Our goal is to make music and have fun with friends.
A short concert will occur on Friday, June 5 at 11:30am.
Note: All are welcome. Instruments are available to borrow.
HS Band Camp/PIE JR. Camp - DISCOUNT BUNDLE!
Bundle both HS Band Camp and PIE JR. Camp for a $50 discount savings.
Dates: June 1-5 (8:30am-12pm) / June 8-12 (9am-4pm)
Performance on Friday, June 12 at 3pm.
Note: Performers should wear comfortable athletic clothing and shoes. Snacks provided. Pack your own lunch.
PERFORMING
JUNE 8-12, 2026
4th-12th grade
Friends • Creativity • Memories
Dates June 8-12 (Monday-Friday)
Time 9am-4pm
Cost $275
Grades
Entering Grades 4-12 (Co-Ed)
Location
Skyway Conservatory 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Instructors
Mr. Jeff Wilson
Dr. Shane Ryan (’16) Miss Katelyn Dietz (’14)
Introduction to the skills of our award-winning Performing Indoor Ensemble (PIE). Rising fourth through twelfth-grade students will learn how to apply band (woodwind, brass, and mixed percussion) and color guard (flags, choreography, and dance) to produce a “mini-show” performance in one week. Some band experience required. No experience needed to participate with the color guard.
Performance on Friday, June 12 at 3pm.
Note: Performers should wear comfortable athletic clothing and shoes. Snacks provided. Pack your own lunch.
SUMMER ART CAMP
Friends • Creativity • Memories JUNE
Dates June 8-12 (Monday-Friday)
Time 9am-12pm
Cost $300
Grades
Entering Grades 1-2 (Co-Ed)
Location Skyway Conservatory 100 Skyway Dr San Jose, CA 95111
Instructor Mrs. Jill Carlson
Art Camp emphasizes creativity as an integral part of the art process, regardless of a student’s level of experience. By teaching fundamental skills and concepts, the instructor encourages students to see art as a means of personal expression. The Valley Christian Elementary School Art Camp allows children to immerse themselves in an array of intensive art studio experiences. Children will be up to their elbows in fun as they dabble in a kaleidoscope of exciting art!
Note: Children should plan to wear clothing that can get messy and stained. Pack a snack and drink for a break outside.
SUMMER ART CAMP
JUNE 8-12, 2026
for students entering 3rd-5th grade
Friends • Creativity • Memories
Dates June 8-12 (Monday-Friday)
Time 1pm-4pm
Cost $300
Grades
Entering Grades 3-5 (Co-Ed)
Location Skyway Conservatory 100 Skyway Dr San Jose, CA 95111
Instructor Mrs. Jill Carlson
Art Camp emphasizes creativity as an integral part of the art process, regardless of a student’s level of experience. By teaching fundamental skills and concepts, the instructor encourages students to see art as a means of personal expression. The Valley Christian Elementary School Art Camp allows children to immerse themselves in an array of intensive art studio experiences. Children will be up to their elbows in fun as they dabble in a kaleidoscope of exciting art!
Note: Children should plan to wear clothing that can get messy and stained. Pack a snack and drink for a break outside.
SUMMER THEATRE CAMP
Dates June 8-18 (Monday-Friday)
Time 9am-12pm
Cost
$495
Grades
Entering Grades 3-5 (Co-Ed)
Location
Skyway Theatre 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Camp registration closes Monday, May 11. for students entering 3rd-5th grade JUNE 8-18, 2026
Instructor
Miss Sophia McCann (’15) Mr. Justin McPherson (’07)
Join us for a two-week, half-day camp for students entering grades 3-5. These young actors will focus on learning lines, basic stage directions, introductory vocals, choreography, and stage movement, culminating with a fun and energetic “mini-show” performance on June 18 at 12pm. This year’s camp is not to be missed and will give budding thespians great building blocks for their future at VCT.
Mandatory Camp Showcase June 18 at 12pm
Note: Camp fee includes a camp t-shirt. Students are responsible for bringing their own snack. If you have questions, or if all spots are full when you go to register, please contact Cristina Zepeda, czepeda@vcs.net, to be placed on a waitlist.
SUMMER THEATRE CAMP JUNE 8-26, 2026
for students entering 6th-12th grade
Summer Theatre 2026: Disney’s FROZEN JR.
Dates June 8-26 (Closed June 19) (Monday-Friday)
Time 9am-3pm
Cost $795
Grades
Entering Grades 6-12 (Co-Ed)
Location Skyway Theatre 100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Instructor
Miss Sophia McCann (’15)
Mr. Justin McPherson (’07)
Disney’s enchanting modern classic comes to life in Frozen JR. this summer at VCT! Based on the hit Broadway musical, the show brings Elsa, Anna, and the magical land of Arendelle to the stage with beloved songs and exciting new moments written for Broadway. Students will explore a heartfelt story of courage, acceptance, and sisterhood as Anna and Elsa discover their inner strength. Filled with magic, adventure, humor, and unforgettable characters, Frozen JR. promises a fun, inspiring, and confidence-building summer experience.
Join us for a three-week, full day camp for students entering grades 6-12. Students will spend their days rehearsing vocals, choreography, and staging, leading up to performances on June 25-26. Every student is guaranteed a role in the show! Join us for a summer filled with creativity, growth, and the magic of Frozen JR!
No camp on Friday, June 19, in observance of Juneteenth.
Mandatory Performances on June 25-26 at 6pm. Camp hours will be adjusted on these two days to accommodate the performances.
Note: Camp fee includes a camp t-shirt. Students are responsible for bringing their own snack and lunch. If you have questions, or if all spots are full when you go to register, please contact Cristina Zepeda, czepeda@vcs.net, to be placed on a waitlist.
Camp registration closes Monday, May 11.
SUMMER DANCE CAMP
JUNE 8-18, 2026 for students entering 1st-8th grade
Vivid 2 - The Dance Team Experience
Dates June 8-18 (Monday-Friday)
Time 1pm-4pm
Cost $475 Grades
Entering Grades 1-8 (Co-Ed)
Location Skyway Theatre
100 Skyway Drive San Jose, CA 95111
Coaches
Mrs. Colette Evans
Miss Megan Stagi
Vivid Dance Team
Sponsored and facilitated by the members of Valley Christian’s Vivid Dance Team, Vivid 2 introduces young dancers to the fast-paced and exciting world of competitive dance teams! Participants will learn cuttingedge routines, develop team spirit, and have a fantastic time while enhancing their performance skills and dance techniques.
The camp will culminate in a dynamic performance showcasing the combinations and techniques learned over the two weeks. Join us and be a part of our nationally ranked team! Let’s dance!
The camp performance will be held on Thursday, June 18, at 3pm in the VCHS Theatre.
Note: The fee includes a dance team shirt, daily nutritious snacks, and performance expenses. Students will need to provide jazz shoes. Fees will go directly to support Vivid: Valley Christian’s award-winning competitive dance team. If you have any questions, please contact Colette Evans, cevans@vcs.net
Valley Christian Schools Graduations
WARRIOR FUND
Tuition funds operations. Philanthropy fuels vision. Every gift makes a difference, so please consider donating to the Warrior Fund today.
UPCOMING EVENTS
May 2027
We look forward to welcoming the VCS community for a round of golf and a day of fellowship at the annual Golf Classic. vcs.net/golfclassic Thank
Giving PLANNED
The Shechem Oak Society honors alumni, parents, and friends who have included Valley Christian Schools in their estate plans, empowering future generations just as the oak at Shechem symbolized God’s faithfulness throughout biblical history. Your gift ensures our faithful witness to God’s kingdom mission through VCS to all generations.
We invite you to join the Shechem Oak Society. Visit plannedgiving.vcs.net or contact advancement@vcs.net to explore the variety of ways you can make a lasting impact at VCS.
ALUMNI CORNER
Once a Warrior, Always a Warrior
No matter where in the world you are, we’re here to support all of our alums as you lead, serve, and impact communities around the globe. Update your information and stay connected with all the latest alumni news and events. Join our Alumni Ambassador program and become part of a network to impact generations of Warriors worldwide.
Become an Alumni Ambassador
Apply to be an Ambassador today at vcs.net/alumniambassador
Alumni Ministries Team
Re-Connect & Update
Update your info today at vcs.net/alumniconnect
Dr. Steve Dang (’02) Senior Vice President, Chief Ministry Officer, and Director of Alumni Ministries
Vanessa (Makinster ’03) Galante Assistant Director of Alumni Ministries
Mark Lodewyk Vice President of Ministry Relations
valleychristianalumni vchsalumni alumni@vcs.net alumni.vcs.net vchsalumni
vcs.net/alumnistore
Show off your school spirit in style! Your purchase not only enhances your personal collection but helps fund future initiatives for your alma mater.
Learn more about our Alumni Community alumni.vcs.net
MISSION STATEMENT
Valley Christian Schools’ mission is to provide a nurturing environment o ering quality education supported by a strong foundation of Christian values in partnership with parents, equipping students to become leaders to serve God, to serve their families, and to positively impact their communities and the world.
VISION STATEMENT
A world where every student pursues their personal Quest for Excellence™
FOUNDING STATEMENT
Valley Christian Schools supports the homes and churches of students in providing an education that is grounded in the Judeo-Christian values of the Bible, as reflected in the life and teaching of Jesus Christ. Valley Christian Schools is committed to a Quest for Excellence™ in all of its educational programs, and provides a comprehensive kindergarten through twelfth-grade curriculum with a rigorous college preparatory program. Firmly founded on Christian values, Valley Christian Schools challenges youth to aspire toward lives of character, service, and influence while pursuing their individual Quests for Excellence
