List of 39 items.

• 2/25/21 Superintendent's Update

  Dear Western Christian Family, God is Making a Way! We are now eight weeks out of our Christmas break. WCS now has every single grade, Preschool through 12th grade, returning for some measure of in-person instruction on our campuses, and not one single transmission of COVID-19 has occurred. Praise the Lord! He continues to fulfill the promise of Isaiah 43:19. He is making a way in the wilderness, and He is causing rivers to flow through the desert!  Our Continued Posture on Reopening I am writing to share with you our continued vision for further expansion of reopening at other grade levels. From the outset of the pandemic, our posture as a school has been to pursue and advance in the reopening of our campuses for in-person instruction. We have never wavered in that aim. Thus, when it has been possible to open a grade level for every day instruction because the class size allowed for it, we have acted quickly and reopened. This is why some grade levels have been able to open sooner than others. Simultaneously, we have also been determined to offer virtual instruction throughout the pandemic for every student/family that chooses it, and we remain committed to that service through the end of the 2020-2021 school year. We want families to continue to have a choice for their children. We believe that parents should be free to choose what best suits the needs of their family in this pandemic, and these two options will allow for that freedom. Again, students are not required to attend classes in person. I encourage any family that is uncomfortable with the risk of potential on-campus COVID-19 transmission to continue having their children learn from home virtually if they believe it to be best for their family. No matter the context of each family and their subsequent choice for the learning path for their children, WCS loves and aims to support every child and every parent in the delivery of a Christian education. Changes in California That being said, you have likely heard that California has now begun permitting schools to open for in-person instruction on the basis of significantly lower infection levels around the state. Many schools are reopening with limitations in place, and most will be doing what we have already been offering our students for months. Remember that our Claremont campus was one of only 300 schools in LA County to receive a waiver to reopen. We have and will continue to operate with a commitment to the safety of our students and employees.   Big News! I am happy to share that on the basis of our continued posture to expand, Mrs. Figueroa and I have decided, with the full support of our Board of Trustees, to continue expanding our reopening of grade levels over the next few weeks. Currently, TK, 3rd grade, 5th grade, and 12th grade students have the option of daily in-person instruction, and we are happy to share that it has been successful for those students and families. In addition, we now have high school students in need of more academic assistance attending daily. On Monday, March 1st, we will be welcoming our 4th grade classes back for in-person instruction if they choose. The following Monday, March 8th, we will be offering daily in-person instruction to our K-2 students. This means that after March 8 all of our elementary grades will have the option of attending school every day. We Are Not Stopping There. Know that we will be preparing for moving to daily instruction at the high school and middle school levels. We are not yet ready to announce dates for full expansion of those grades yet, but that announcement is coming soon. We want to ensure that the youngest of our students are in class first prior to moving toward greater expansion for the highest grade levels in school. Our middle school and high school students are next. These grade levels will also be seeing an increase in athletic activities and opportunities as state guidelines in athletics are beginning to shift in allowing more activity. Students, regardless of grade level, will continue to socially distance, wear masks, practice regular hand washing, and submit to daily screening upon entrance to campus. Many of our teachers and staff have been or will be vaccinated in the coming days and weeks. WCS will continue to operate in accordance with our COVID-19 Reopening and Prevention Plans. Claremont Chapels in the Gym Because the state of California has stated that religious activity is now permitted to take place indoors as long as attendance is limited to 25% of building capacity, we will now be holding chapels in our gymnasium for students at the same times for all three grade groups (TK-2nd, 3rd-5th, and 6th – 8th). This allowance will allow us to hold chapels independent of changes in weather. Students, again, will continue to be socially distanced and wear masks indoors. I pray that the Lord blesses you with what we all need right now – hope. Remember that hope ultimately is found in the person of Jesus Christ and the promises He offers us through his word. Continue to read His word and pray to Him. Ask him to lead your family, our students, and our school as we walk through the latter half of this school year together. I believe that the most important truth that any of us can take from this year, no matter our age, no matter our background, is that the Lord is in control and He will be faithful to those who love him. He will always make a way for his people. God bless you, God bless your family, and God bless Western Christian! Sincerely,   John Attwood Superintendent Western Christian

• 1/25/21 Superintendent Update

  Dear WCS TK-8 Parents,   I pray that you and your family are well. One of the great joys of my day is seeing your children arrive at school in the morning and waving to them and to you. They are so eager to learn, so eager to be with their classmates. Some of them are known to literally run to enter campus! It’s wonderful! I thank the Lord that our campus is open and our students are learning and growing daily. Thanks for waiving back!   You Get an A+ for Safety I am happy to share that Western Christian has had no known COVID-19 cases on campus since our school resumed for instruction following the Christmas break. Credit goes to our families, our students, and our amazing WCS teachers and staff for operating with caution and adhering to our safety protocols on campus. Thank you for your diligence and care, Western family! Let’s continue to practice the same precautions and behaviors that, through God’s provision and faithfulness, have helped us. Remember: stay home if ill (or a family member has symptoms), wear masks, wash hands, and maintain physical distance.   Significant Change in California for K-2 I am also writing to share with you a significant change at the state level for the K-2 age group at every school, public and private, in California. Recently, the state’s Department of Health, in cooperation with the Governor, released revised guidance mandating that children in grades K-12 must wear masks while at school as a means of remaining open for in-person instruction. This includes TK as the state deems this grade level to be the first section/level of kindergarten. This is a change from their September 4th guidance that stated that students in 2nd grade and below did not have to wear masks. In consultation with our legal counsel and after reviewing the state documents thoroughly, it is clear that this is state law, and no school in the state is exempt from it. The WCS Board of Trustees and I recognize that there is no alternative for our school but to comply beginning on February 1, the start of 2nd semester. We recognize and understand that there are strong opinions on this topic, and we care about your concerns. We are sorry for any potential frustration or discomfort this may cause you. We certainly never want that for you or our students. Ultimately, in order to keep our campus open for in-person instruction throughout this pandemic, it now has become necessary for us to require this of students. You can be proud that Western Christian is one of less than 300 schools (out of thousands) in LA County that is open with a waiver. This adjustment helps us continue to maintain that distinction and benefit for our students.   Even With This Change, We Will Still Remain Western Christian. I commit to you that our posture will be loving and grace-filled as we navigate this with our students. We recognize that children in these grades will need our patience and support with all of this. Our amazing teachers will lovingly lead our students through managing this. If students do not have or forget their masks we gladly provide them with a safe and comfortable mask.   We also want you to know that if your child has a physical or mental health concern that would not make this possible, we understand and will adapt. An exemption from this rule is possible under state guidelines. We would ask that you communicate that need to our administration in writing in order to receive that exemption. Though this mandate and others like it can feel overwhelming and frustrating, I want you to know that our commitment to you is to continue to be welcoming, loving, and patient with our children. We will continue to offer an environment that prioritizes the whole child – mind, body, soul, and spirit. We aim to be as safe as possible while also continually reminding our students in both word and deed that they are worthy of love, care, and affection. Jesus says so, and that’s what makes our school so special.   If you have any questions or concerns please share them with our administration. We love you and your children. We will continue to weather these challenges together. This is yet another hurdle in this race of the 2020-2021 school year. We’re running this race together. Remember that our God is good to us. Our school is open. Our kids can see each other and be in class with our teachers – something many other schools cannot do. Praise the Lord.   May God bless you, your children, and Western Christian!   Sincerely, John Attwood Superintendent Western Christian Schools

• 1/4/21 Superintendent Update

  Dear WCS Families,

   

  Happy New Year! I and the rest of the WCS teachers, staff, and administration are excited to begin 2021 with the return of our students in their cohort groups beginning tomorrow. Schedules for cohort groups and their arrival times remain the same as they were prior to the Christmas break. We look forward to seeing you!

   

  Please remember to consider keeping your children at home if they attended any mixed gatherings over the Christmas and New Year holidays. Please assess them for COVID-19 symptoms (fever, headache, fatigue, new cough, loss of taste and smell), and please do not send children to school if they exhibit any symptoms. We want to do our best to prevent the spread of infection on campus. As you know, we are very thin on staff due to having to simultaneously run classrooms and day camp for essential workers. Student and staff quarantines/isolation due to the potential presence of the virus on campus is something that we must all be vigilant to prevent against to both keep everyone safe and to maintain supervision of activity on campus. Remember that virtual instruction remains available to our students if they need to remain at home. I encourage you to avail yourself of this service if there is ever a question about whether or not to send your child to school.

   

  I truly believe that the Lord has amazing things in store for our students in 2021. He has carried us all this far as one WCS family, and I know He will never fail us. Keep your eyes on the Lord, WCS!

   

  “Behold, I am doing a new thing;
      now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?
  I will make a way in the wilderness
      and rivers in the desert.”

  -Isaiah 43:19

   

  Sincerely in Christ,

  John Attwood

  Superintendent

  Western Christian Schools

• 12/17 Superintendent Christmas Message

  Dear Western Christian Family,

   

  What a year it has been! We have been through so much this year together – the excitement of the start of a year, the advent of on-campus cohorts, “Zoomathons,” Zoom fatigue, virtual and in-person chapels. Our fantastic teachers and our precious students have had to learn and re-learn so much that we previously took for granted. They are truly pioneers in education. Our families have been so patient and supportive, willing to flex and adapt to the needs of this unpredictable year. Together, have steadily climbed the mountain that is the 2020-2021 school, and we have done it with the Lord leading us. I praise the Lord for his goodness to our school!

   

  Some Notes on COVID-19 Prevention and Planning

  As we prepare for the resumption of on-campus activity at our campuses on January 5, I would ask you to consider a few things:

  • We will return with the previously employed structures for on-campus activity for each grade level (TK-8 cohorts and HS outdoor Zooming) at the same times. We can’t wait to see our students!
  • If you or your family plan to travel or spend time with a larger group of people over the Christmas break, please consider keeping your children home to learn virtually for a week following the Christmas break. In addition, it might be helpful to get them tested for COVID-19 prior to a return to campus particularly if you have attended a gathering in an area with high virus transmission rates. San Bernardino County’s COVID-19 Website and Los Angeles County’s site both list locations for COVID testing.  Your caution and care in this way allows us to better manage potential COVID outbreaks connected with large gatherings. WCS believes in your freedom to make these decisions for you and your children. Yet, we also want to prevent the potential for student and staff quarantines related to COVID-19 exposures. We know and trust that you will carefully consider the implications of your Christmas plans.
  • I applaud our families, students, and staff for how they have navigated the requirements and implications of COVID-19 mandates and rules. This has not been easy for any of us. I am happy and proud to share that, through the conclusion of 2020, we had no known COVID-19 transmissions on our campuses. Though we have had a handful of students or employees contract COVID-19 through off-campus activity, by wearing masks, washing hands, and maintaining appropriate distance, our students and staff have helped sustain a safer campus. Our protocols and system are working, and I thank the WCS family for its shared commitment to them. Great job, Lancers!
  • As news of COVID-19 vaccinations spreads across the nation, optimism continues to grow. Regardless of opinions either for or against vaccinations, this development means that the end of this is pandemic is drawing nearer each day. As we proceed with the school year, our aim is to continue to open up more and more of our campuses to our students. That has been our aim from the beginning and will continue to be our approach as we move forward. Our administrators will continue to unveil additional opportunities to students in the weeks to come. This will take time, but be encouraged. We have turned a corner. We are on the home stretch. We need to continue to maintain the protocols addressed in our COVID-19 Reopening and Prevention Plans, and we will continue to try and meet the expectations of our county Department(s) of Public Health. Changes toward more on-campus opportunity are on their way.

   

  Why We Celebrate

  This Christmas, though it may be tinged by the melancholy of the pandemic, I encourage you to reflect on why we celebrate. Though Christmas is a special time for gift-giving and celebrating with family, it is about much more than those things. This is a time to remember that in the middle of the darkness and brokenness of humanity, God chose to send His only Son to save us from sin and death. The gift of life through Jesus Christ transcends the pain of every kind of suffering – loneliness, depression, and even COVID-19. Remember and worship Jesus for the eternal hope and love He offers us. He will never fail us!

   

  God bless you, all and Merry Christmas!

   

  Sincerely in Christ,

  John Attwood

  Superintendent

  Western Christian Schools

• 12/1 Superintendent Update

  Dear WCS Parents,   You are most likely already aware of an increase in COVID-19 cases locally. As the numbers of COVID-19 cases grow in the Los Angeles area, be assured that Western Christian will continue to provide on-campus education for its preschool through 8th grade students in alignment with public health guidance. Also, please be encouraged that, per the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH), there is no current plan or requirement for mass campus closures due to this increase in COVID cases. Praise the Lord!   I am ultimately writing to inform you of some adjustments made by Los Angeles County for schools and to provide context for what these adjustments mean for Western Christian in this difficult season. We believe that it is important that parents understand these policies/contingencies as we head into a season in which the spread of the virus is high so that, should these policies affect your student, you are informed and prepared. It is entirely possible that these policies/contingencies will not affect your student. In addition, I also wanted to share some practical considerations for daily attendance.   Please understand that as cases of the virus increase (particularly via asymptomatic transmission) in our area, logically the potential of cases at Western Christian also increases. WCS will do all it can to prevent the spread of any communicable disease, but it is important to understand that the potential for virus transmission does exist. As a result of these increases in COVID cases, these are important policies and contingencies to consider: If an exposure to a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 occurs in a classroom, all persons that were in the classroom during the infectious period are considered exposed and must quarantine for 14 days. Per the LACDPH, exposure in the classroom is independent of masking, physical distance, and duration of exposure. Again, any student or employee who has been in the classroom with a COVID positive individual during the infectious period is considered exposed. If WCS, in cooperation with the LACDPH, determines that 3 or more COVID-19 cases (students or employees) have been present on campus within a span of 14 days, it is possible that WCS would need to move to virtual instruction for all students for a 14 day period. This is a decision that will be made only after receiving direction from LADPH. WCS would resume on-campus instruction for cohorts immediately following that 14 day period. Therefore, we continue to encourage families to keep children at home who may have been exposed to a COVID-19 case or who are displaying symptoms of COVID-19 (fever, new cough, shortness of breath, muscle/body aches, loss of taste/smell). We also continue to encourage families to have their children tested immediately if their children are exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms.   Due to the potential of employee absences as a result of exposures outside of school and subsequent contact tracing requirements (quarantines), it is possible that on-campus classes and services might need to be suspended due to a critical lack of staffing. The key word here is “critical,” meaning an overwhelming number of employees. We do not necessarily foresee this happening, but as local COVID case numbers rise, we want you to be aware of the potential for a large number of our employees to be quarantined due to contact tracing. Like other schools, our substitute pool for both teachers and teacher’s aides is limited. This could mean that a teacher has to teach their class from home due to quarantine or that a section/cohort of our day camp has to close for 1 to 14 days if we cannot staff the position while waiting for the employee to return to work. WCS will do all that it can to staff positions to in order to maintain on-campus services, but we do have limited staff size. It is important to remember that any staffing setback experienced will be temporary. WCS will certainly communicate with you if this becomes a reality, and WCS will provide you with our plan for addressing it on the basis of the specific circumstance presented.  When dropping off students for temperature screening in the morning, please consider turning off the heat in your car prior to drop off. We are seeing occasional false temperature readings due to variation in the ambient temperature around the student in their car prior to arrival. Should we receive a high temperature reading for any student, we cannot allow them to enter campus. We will gladly retake their temperature following a high reading. If the reading continues to be high following the retake, we ask that the student either pass through the drop off line again for an additional temperature check (allowing for the ambient temperature around them to cool during the wait) or that the student continue virtual learning from home for the day. Out of an abundance of caution, we continue to strongly encourage K-2 students to wear masks in the classroom. Please feel free to send your child to school with a mask and our teachers will ensure that they wear it throughout the day. Though virus transmission in these lower grades statistically is much lower than in upper grades, we want to do all we can to prevent any spread in the classroom during this surge. Please remember that on-campus school attendance comes with inherent risk. Though it will do all it can to increase campus safety, Western Christian cannot guarantee student or employee safety from COVID-19 or other communicable diseases. By attending school on campus, parents assume this risk for their children. I thank you again for your continued support of Western Christian. I ardently believe that your continued commitment to Christian education is something that the Lord will bless abundantly in the life of your child. You continue to make a priceless decision to have your child at Western Christian. My prayers continue to be with you, your family, and our school community. We are going to make it through this, WCS, with the Lord leading us one day at a time!   Sincerely, John Attwood Superintendent Western Christian Schools

• 11/13 Superintendent Update

  Dear WCS Family,   I am pleased to share that Western Christian Schools will be allowing our Middle School (6th through 8th grade) students to return to campus for instruction beginning Monday, November 30th. Students in these grades, in a manner similar to our K-5 students, will be able to return to campus in cohorts, or smaller groups that do not mix.  Each student will be assigned to defined cohort groups at each grade level. Each group will be on campus twice a week for in-person instruction. We praise the Lord for our ability to expand in this way! He continues to be faithful to us, Western Christian.   Please understand that due to state and county guidelines, this return will necessitate a shift to a block schedule for our middle school students. Please know that we have planned for this shift since the beginning of the school year, anticipating that this would likely be a necessity. We believe that this block schedule will provide our students with a couple of benefits: 1) It will aid in the prevention of potential virus transmission due to decreased exchanges of students in classrooms, and 2) it will allow for students to receive more time for instruction in their subject areas. Mrs. Figueroa, our TK-8 Principal, will soon be sharing details related to the block schedule, necessary safety protocols, and information about changes to our morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up procedures for middle school students.   Virtual instruction will remain available to all students should parents want their students to remain at home rather than attend class on campus. Day Camp for students of essential workers will continue to be offered to students on the days that they cannot attend class in person.   Please continue to remember that attendance of any on-campus activity comes with inherent risk. Though we will do all we can to prevent the presence and transmission of  the virus on campus, Western Christian cannot guarantee safety from COVID-19 or any communicable disease. It is also important to understand that the presence of COVID-19 on our campus can have immediate ramifications on the operation of our classrooms due to county requirements. Please make sure that you do not bring students to school if they are ill or have been in contact with someone who is ill. Please do not take any chances with this. The result could trigger mandatory quarantines for entire groups of students and teaching staff. If we are diligent to adhere to this approach and the safety protocols required for our campus, we should be able to continue to keep our classes open and our campus safe.   I pray that the Lord blesses you and encourages you with this news. I thank the Lord for your family and our employees. With the Lord guiding us, we are making our way through this very difficult season as one community, a family that loves Jesus and His kids. In this Thanksgiving season, know that my heart is grateful to God for you.   Sincerely, John Attwood Superintendent Western Christian Schools

• 11/3 Superintendent Update

  Dear WCS Family,   I am pleased to share that Western Christian Schools has received approval from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health for our 2nd through 5th grade students to return to campus for instruction on Monday, November 9th. This approval allows our 2nd through 5th grade students, in the same manner as our Kindergarten and 1st grade students, to return to campus in cohorts, or smaller groups that do not mix.  We praise the Lord for this advancement! Each child will be assigned to one of two groups in each class at each grade level. Each group will be on campus twice a week for in-person instruction (either Monday-Tuesday or Thursday-Friday). Virtual instruction will remain available to all students should parents want their students to remain at home rather than attend class on campus. Day Camp for students of essential workers will continue to be offered to students on the days that they cannot attend class in person. Mrs. Figueroa, our TK-8 Principal, will share more detail in the coming days with 2nd-5th grade parents about the logistics of this plan and which days students will be on campus. Mrs. Figueroa will also be providing information about recent changes to our morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up procedures.   WCS is also currently monitoring the impact of an important settlement of a case in Los Angeles County that could benefit many Christian schools across the state, including Western Christian. Our legal counsel is providing me and the WCS Board of Trustees with guidance about the potential avenues that this settlement could provide to further expand opportunity to students for on-site instruction. We will certainly be communicating more about this should those avenues become more certain. My aim in stating this is not create unnecessary intrigue. Rather, I want you to know that we are diligently working behind the scenes to advance in safely returning our students to campus as soon as it is possible.   Good things are happening around us, Western, even if we cannot see or feel it. God is at work for our good. In the meantime, I ask that you continue to pray that the Lord would make a way where there seems to be no way. I believe that He hears our prayers and that He will be faithful to answer. I also ask that we pray for one another. I know this season is so difficult on students, parents, teachers, and staff. I also know that we have alumni out in the world navigating this tumultuous time. Pray for all in the Western Christian family – for their marriages, their safety, their mental and emotional health, their finances, their relationships with Jesus. Ask the Lord to bring peace, hope, and rest for the weary among us. Ask Him to reveal his great love through Christ for all of our people.   I pray for you daily. God loves you just as you are, WCS. He has you in the palm of His hand. God will never disappoint us. Our hope is secure in Him (Romans 5:1-5).   Happy Election Day! May God bless you, your family, and His school, Western Christian.   Sincerely, John Attwood Superintendent Western Christian Schools

• 10/23 Superintendent Update

  Dear WCS Family,
  
  County Data
  I am writing to provide you with another update about our reopening status. As you may be aware numbers in LA and San Bernardino County are headed in slightly different directions. LA county’s numbers (cases and deaths) continue to decline, while cases in San Bernardino County have increased due to a post-Labor Day spike. Currently, both counties remain in Tier 1 (purple), through next week, and this necessitates the continued closure of campuses.
  
  Where does this leave Western Christian in the campus reopening saga?
  First, I think it is important to reiterate Western Christian’s ardent belief in the value of in-person education. We believe and have always believed that the education of children is vital to the development of the whole child – mind, body, and soul. We believe that children are best served if this holistic education is offered in-person. If we did not always believe this, we would have sought a different means of education long ago. COVID-19 has not altered that belief. Virtual learning is a temporary substitute, but it was never intended to, nor can it replace, the quality of in-person instruction.
  
  Parents Have a Choice
  WCS also believes that parents, the God-chosen leaders of their children in all aspects of life, have the God-given right to pursue how and where that education should take place, no matter the societal context. Parents are given the burden and privilege of choosing how and what they want their children to learn. Western Christian proudly supports parents in their choice of education for their children. This has always been our position as a ministry and school, and, even in a pandemic, this continues to be our belief.
  
  Survey Says…
  I am pleased to share that Western Christian has been quite successful in its implementation of virtual instruction for our students. You have communicated this directly to us through our recently released survey. Over 80% of WCS parents shared that their children have been successful in Western Christian’s virtual learning program. Western Christian families rate our virtual learning program at 4.5 stars out of 5 stars. Our teachers have worked hard to maintain relationship and connection with their students, and 78 % of our parents have shared that their children feel connected to their teacher and classmates despite being physically distant. 97% of our parents share that they are satisfied with WCS’ communication during the pandemic, and 97% say they are satisfied with the customer service they have received in this season. We give thanks to God for this. Our desire is to serve your children and your family well.
  
  Our Growing Concern
  Outside of the threat related to COVID-19 transmission, we are deeply concerned as a school that 58% of WCS parents report that they are concerned about the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual development of their children as a result of WCS campus closures. While our health professionals (I thank the Lord for them) are experts in disease prevention, our teachers and school employees are experts in caring for the mental, emotional, and spiritual needs of their students. These statistics are unacceptable to us. 45% of our families communicated that their children are demonstrating signs of loneliness, 47% say their children are exhibiting higher levels of stress, and 46% see greater anxiety in their children while learning virtually. 70% of our high school students directly reported that they have felt stressed in virtual learning, and 58% have experienced anxiety since the beginning of school. While many of our students have continued to perform at a high level in our virtual learning program, many are also struggling academically due to the absence of in-person instruction. Though our virtually learning program is statistically successful, WCS does not see this as an acceptable long-term alternative for all of our children. The majority of parents appear to agree. Currently, 70% of parents support a reopening of our campuses for in-person instruction with appropriate safety measures in place.
  
  Our Commitment to In-person Instruction and the Reopening of Campuses
  Thus, our belief remains that WCS parents and students should be given the option of returning to campus safely or learning virtually from home until families feel comfortable to return in person. Both should be options in this season. Please understand that this is not a conviction connected to finances.
  
  This is not a capitulation to majority opinion. Western Christian has, for over 100 years, offered in-person instruction because it believes in face to face relationship and discipleship. Therefore, WCS continues to pursue the reopening of its campuses for in-person instruction as soon as possible. There is much happening behind the scenes on the legal and operational front to ensure a safe and responsible reopening very soon. When that time arrives, and it looks like it will arrive sooner rather than later, WCS will be ready.
  
  In the meantime, if you remain interested in your child receiving in-person instruction, consider doing the following:
  
  

  • Continue praying for a safe and orderly reopening of our campuses.
  • Schedule a flu shot for your child. As I have mentioned before, flu shots have the potential to keep our kids more healthy and at school in the flu season. Flu shots also benefit our healthcare system by impeding the spread of influenza in our community while in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Read through WCS’ Reopening Plan and discussing the safety expectations contained within it with your child. In reopening campuses, significant safety precautions must be adhered to, and our children, just as much as our employees, need to understand these precautions and commit to them.
  • Consider and take seriously that a return to campus carries with it risk of COVID-19 infection. While data appears to indicate that schools are not significant sources of virus transmission or COVID-19 hotspots,  WCS cannot guarantee safety from COVID-19 infections while on campus. WCS will do all it can to prevent COVID-19 transmission, but returning to campus carries inherent risk of transmission.

  More communication will be delivered to you soon about specifics connected to the future reopening of our campuses. God is making a way where there seems to be none. Isaiah 43:19 remains true! Have faith, WCS! Our God is with us, and we are climbing this mountain together.
  
  I pray that the Lord blesses you and your family, and I pray that He blesses his school, Western Christian!
   
  Sincerely,
  John Attwood

• 9/30 Superintendent Update

  https://www.westernchristian.org/vidlink3 Dear Western Christian Family, I am proud to share that the start to the 2020-2021 school year has been a success. Beginning a school year in a pandemic, virtually, in the midst of a constantly shifting landscape of guidelines, mandates, and cultural norms is no small task. Yet, God has made a way where we could not see it, just as our verse for the year, Isaiah 43:19, promises. Look for the promise in that verse to be found repeatedly true this year. God will make a way, WCS! I am so proud of our students and teachers. They are true Lancers, approaching the challenge of this season with bravery, hope, and commitment. They make me proud! HS and TK-8 Campus Reopening Status and TK-2 Waivers Without going into great detail about the process for county reopening by the State of California and how that interacts with county Department of Public Health (DoPH) guidelines, I will summarize by saying that we are not able to open yet, but we are drawing steadily closer to that time. Numbers in both San Bernardino County and Los Angeles County continue to fall. COVID-19 infection rates, death rates, and hospitalizations continue to plummet. This is great news. However, some of the metrics in our counties still have not met the threshold for the state to approve reopening. Thus, as of today, September 30, we remain in the Purple tier for both Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties. But here’s some good news! Los Angeles County did make an announcement on September 29 that waivers would begin to be considered for the reopening of grades TK-2. Waivers will only be granted for a small amount of schools and it appears that they will be prioritizing areas of low income. WCS will certainly be submitting our application as soon as they define the process for us and boundaries for us. We’ll be communicating about this as soon as we know more. What Does this Mean for Our Campus Reopening Timeframe? We are drawing nearer to a greater reopening for both of our campuses, but we are not there yet. Based upon the trending of virus metrics and the processes for reopening (including requirements for achieving tier movement and lags in data reporting to the state), WCS sees early November as a possibility. We wish for it to be sooner, but based upon what the state and county is requiring, November looks likely. I have grown leery of making bold pronouncements as the state seems to change their approach the moment I send anything to you, but I want you to have as clear of a view for the future at WCS as possible. Hold loosely to this timeframe knowing, all the while, WCS is passionately and consistently pursuing every angle to successfully reopening our campuses. A Successful Visit from LA County I am pleased to share that the County of Los Angeles DoPH recently made a scheduled visit to our Claremont campus (we asked them to come) to inspect how WCS was managing COVID-19 safety requirements for the reopening of campuses (particularly for our learning cohorts). Our helpful visitor from the county shared that we were doing an excellent job and had nothing negative to report to LA County. WCS is doing all it can to foster a safe, organized, and loving learning environment in this pandemic and LA County recognizes this. Praise the Lord! Keep Students Engaged through Opportunities for Safe In-person Interaction! As our students journey through the challenges of virtual instruction, it is vital that they maintain relationships with their peers and teachers. Please pay close attention to the communication coming from our campuses regarding athletics, clubs, chapels, discipleship and mentoring groups and more. These are the vehicles for safe and, often, in-person and on-campus experiences that allow for our students to have meaningful interaction within the WCS community. Our kids need this desperately, and even aid their performance in virtual learning because they know with/from whom they are learning. They feel connected, part of something that adds meaning to their daily coursework. This matters. Feel free to call our offices if you have further questions or concerns about this. We are making our way through this, Western Christian. You are doing an awesome job, parents. Hang in there, Mom and Dad. You are phenomenal. We are learning and growing together. The beauty, if there is any, in navigating a pandemic at Western Christian is that you are not alone. Your child is not alone. We are not forgotten or forsaken. We are a family, and the Lord is leading us, his school, through this together. May God bless you, may God bless your family, and may God bless Western Christian. John Attwood Superintendent Western Christian Schools www.westernchristian.org

• 8/14 Superintendent Update

  In This Update: Important Announcement from Mr. Attwood re: the Start of School We are still pursuing in-person instruction! A video message from Mr. Attwood New and improved remote Learning The focus: Jesus and relationships On campus activities Group support on campus with Emmaus Road Counseling Distance Learning Day Camp for Essential Workers The Alternatives – Western is better!   http(s)://www.westernchristian.org/2020-2021   Dear WCS Families,   I am writing to share the direction that I, with the full support of the Western Christian Board of Trustees, have decided on for the beginning of the 2020-2021 school year. This decision was not arrived at easily. We have been meeting weekly for some time to assess the medical and legal landscape of Christian education in the midst of this pandemic all with the aim of finding a route to re-open our campuses for in-person instruction. We have “turned over every stone,” consulted experts, measured data, discussed strategy and law with legal counsel, and assessed our ability to ensure longevity for Western Christian long into the future. After much research, thought, discussion, and prayer, we have concluded that Western Christian will begin the school year in a full remote learning mode.   Following a recent announcement made by both San Bernardino and Los Angeles counties stating that the re-opening of campuses for in-person instruction would be deemed criminal (a misdemeanor punishable with arrest and fine), a myriad of risks to the school and its future became apparent if we re-opened our campuses without approval. Though we passionately believe in offering in-person instruction and in many ways disagree with what we perceive to be overreach by the government, the risk to the future of Western Christian is too great. We have an obligation to do all that we can to ensure that Western Christian survives not only the COVID-19 pandemic but long into the future. Our children (some not even born yet) will need the hope of Jesus Christ shared at Western Christian Schools.   We will not stop pursuing in-person instruction. It is going to happen!   That being said, WCS is still pursuing every opportunity to re-open campuses for instruction this semester. We have not given up. This could happen as soon as our counties are moved off of monitoring lists and we receive approval from the Department of Public Health, and this is technically still possible before our September 8th start date. We have not stopped nor will we stop pursuing in-person instruction this year. The current data in Los Angeles County continues to look particularly promising. Infection rates continue to stay below the 8% marker in LA County. We are compiling our new reopening application (the process has been shrouded in mystery for some time) for delivery to the County Department of Public Health. We will be ready to offer in-person instruction quickly when approval has been granted.   I remind you that this is far more than our public schools can offer. They will remain in remote learning mode through the end of 2020. We, however, will be able to bring our students back to campus very quickly following approval. I am excited to share that our TK class will re-open for in-person instruction with our beloved Mrs. Goff on campus by operating within our Preschool building. This has been approved already through Community Care Licensing Division. This is one of the primary benefits of remaining with Western Christian – your child will likely have the opportunity to be in school on campus in 2020.   WCS Remote Learning – New and Improved   Our remote learning program will be excellent. We learned so much from our first journey into remote learning in the spring – what our students and parents needed and the technology that would make the experience better for all. Our Principals, who are both extremely tech savvy and current in educational technology, are doing a fantastic job of strategizing and organizing a phenomenal remote learning program. Utilizing Zoom (live, daily, interactive, and simultaneously recorded lessons), myWCS (teacher web pages full of resources and assignments), and a few other new platforms we have purchased that are designed to make the experience more convenient and enjoyable, WCS will offer live, daily, interactive instruction that closely resembles the standard school day for students. Our teachers will be able to assess and communicate progress to students and families with greater ease utilizing new platforms, Seesaw (Elementary and Middle School) and Microsoft Teams (High School). Students will be given time for breaks and recess throughout the school day. You will be able to experience our remote learning platforms in greater detail the week before school when WCS hosts its student orientation activities. Students will have the opportunity to “warm up” with the technology and their teacher. More details will come from campus Principals about this.   We remain focused on Jesus and relationships!   Our students desperately need meaningful and consistent relationships with their teachers and peers in this season of isolation and potential loneliness. Through the deployment of interactive, engaging online learning strategies and activities, students will be able to build meaningful, consistent relationships with their teachers and other students every day.   Most importantly, parents, you will have the peace and rest that attends knowing that your child is receiving a Christian education from loving, professional Christian teachers all day every day. The reason for why Western Christian maintains excellence in leading outstanding students is bigger than rigorous academics and people who care. Our students receive an education built on the truth of God’s Word. They learn right from wrong. They discover that they are made by God in the image of God because God loves them and has a purpose for them. WCS students learn this every day! There is no greater education you could offer.   On Campus Activities for Students   In addition to a robust remote learning program, we will also be offering enrichment and athletic activities to small groups on campus. We know how important it is for our children to connect with each other on our campuses, and we want to facilitate this outside of the classroom in a safe and organized manner. During these activities, all appropriate safety protocols will be maintained. Again, more will be shared about this by the Principals soon.   The Spiritual, Mental, and Emotional Health of Our Students Matters!   I am also pleased to share that we have grown our relationship with Emmaus Counseling Center to offer both group and individual support for all of our students in this season. Emmaus Road is a non-profit Christian counseling group that wishes to serve and minister to school age youth in relevant and biblically informed ways that grow children in their understanding of God and themselves.  Emmaus Road will be offering voluntary, on-campus, small group activities to WCS students in grades 4-12 (any younger would not developmentally appropriate). These fun, safe, engaging group sessions led by trained, Christian Emmaus Road therapists will offer encouragement, community, and spiritual/mental/emotional support to young people in a very challenging season for them. We need to know that our children are healthy, and Emmaus Road will provide our school and our families with the resources to ensure this.   On-campus Day Camp for Children of Essential Workers   We will also offer on-campus childcare and remote learning support for the students (grades K-8) of essential workers. Before and after school care will be offered from 7:00 am to 5:30 pm at a cost. Care during the standard school day will be offered at no cost. Students in our day camp will be on our campus, but not in our classrooms. Students will be grouped in smaller pods (10-15 students) by grade level and arranged around campus. Students will be offered remote learning support during the school day and will need to bring their own learning devices and headphones. Students have the option of bringing their own lunch or purchasing lunch. Please understand that we will have limited availability for this option due to a limited number of staff. We want to offer this service primarily to families who desperately need care for their children. If you are an essential worker but are able to provide care for your child at home, please allow for others in greater need to sign up. Information regarding signing up for this option will be sent to you soon by our Claremont campus.   The Alternatives – They Pale in Comparison   Online public education and the myriad of cheaper online programs may not prioritize a Christian worldview nor align with the values to which you and your family believe in. You chose Western Christian because it is fundamentally different than the alternatives. Our school is a Christ-centered family, a community that transcends a screen and is worth the cost. Staying with WCS ensures that our family remains intact in one of the most difficult seasons our families and students have ever experienced. You need Western and Western needs you. Your children will be known, loved, and connected to a life-giving school that prizes them and you because God brought you to us. Do not settle for less. Your child needs a Christian education and you need the peace of mind knowing that they will grow in an environment (digital or in-person) that will deliver hope and truth daily.   We look forward to serving you in what will be a very memorable year, a year in which I believe the goodness and faithfulness of God will be on display daily for our WCS family to see.   God bless you, God bless your family, and God bless Western Christian!   Sincerely,   John Attwood Superintendent Western Christian Schools   Western Christian Schools | 3105 Padua Ave | Claremont, CA 91711 | 909-291-4700 | support@mywcs.com

• 8/7 Superintendent Update - New Re-opening survey

  In this Update: Elementary Waivers No Longer an Option in LA County We need to know what you think. Take the new Re-opening Survey! A couple of things to keep in mind. Why tuition rates won’t change. Why the cost is worth it. Athletic teams can safely practice. The value of our teachers is at a premium. An encouragement via song.   Dear WCS Parents,   As we approach our September 8th start date (whether we open in person or through our remote learning program), it is vital to our reopening efforts that we receive information from you about your willingness to send your children to campus for in-person instruction.   New Re-opening Survey Though waivers for an elementary re-opening are not being granted, Los Angeles County will need to know that we have the support of our parents, teachers, and local community if we were to re-open in person due to a change in progression of pandemic data in our area. Please go to this link to take a two question survey and give us your feedback. Western Christian’s Board of Trustees, in partnership with me, continue to assess every legal remedy to reopening in person. Please pray for us as we continue to strategize and make decisions. We will make an announcement about our direction by the end of next week.   A couple of things to keep in mind: At the time of writing this letter (August 7), LA County is below the 8% infection rate keeping us on the watch list (currently at 7.8%). Schools could reopen in-person following 14 consecutive days of maintaining a rate below 8%. Pray that that happens. San Bernardino County continues to have a high infection rate, though numbers seem to be plateauing, which is good. Much can change in a short amount of time. We are monitoring legal cases advocating for the re-opening of schools, maintaining connection with local private Christian schools, and have conferred repeatedly with our legal counsel to understand the shifting landscape related to school openings and to understand our rights as a religious organization. I have learned in this season to never assume an outcome. God can do all things. Remote Learning and Tuition Cost in this Scenario In addition to a question about re-opening campus in person, the re-opening survey also inquires about your willingness to participate in our full remote learning program if campuses must remain closed. An important note as you consider your response: If we were required to provide instruction remotely, we would likely not be lowering tuition costs. There are a couple of reasons for this: Our school is a non-profit ministry that cannot lean on large profits and significant cash reserves in times of crisis. Our profit margins are very small.  Due to the impact of COVID-19, our income has decreased and our costs have only increased (added technology for remote learning, safety supplies and equipment on both campuses). Therefore, decreasing tuition costs in a time when our income is less and expenses have increased significantly and unexpectedly would make running the school impossible from a financial perspective. Our tuition does not simply pay for things. Tuition retains our amazing people. The heart of Western Christian is its teaching and support staff. Decreasing tuition, means decreasing staff. That equation does not work in a business built around our beloved Christ-centered community. Our money is invested in that community. Why is Remote Learning worth a Full Tuition Price? You made a choice to send your child to a decidedly Christian school for a reason, and it was a good reason. The ultimate value of a private Christian school is not in a location but in a set of Christ-centered relationships – relationships involving your child and their teachers, your child and God, our teachers and God, and you and God. In a Christian school, as children learn about the world around them, they learn about the One who made them and loves them. This happens in the context of relationships with teachers who LOVE and KNOW their students. Our remote instruction will be live. It will be interactive. It will mirror the standard school day. Most importantly, it will emphasize relationship. We are not offering a faceless, impersonal online education. We will see, know, and love your child daily, and they need that now more than ever. We will be there for your child.   And for those who long for in-person instruction and are not planning on spending the year learning remotely, remote instruction will not last forever. We believe that at some point WCS will be returning to campus this fall, and we will be ready to do so quickly. Many other schools cannot make that commitment.  When you pay your tuition at Western Christian, you are paying for the knowledge that your child, no matter where they are, will be receiving a Christian education that is built on meaningful daily interaction and committed to providing in-person instruction as soon as possible.   In addition, Mr. Doolittle and Mrs. Browning shared in their recent communication that our athletic teams, if they follow our athletic safety protocols, will be allowed to meet and practice throughout the fall even if we are in a remote learning scenario. We will be coordinating those practice opportunities and will be communicating them soon.   Finally, I am proud (beaming might be a more accurate description) to share that our teachers overwhelmingly expressed their willingness to teach students in-person in a survey we conducted with them. At a time when the majority of public school teachers would choose to not serve their students in-person, Western Christian teachers stand out. That is one of the great things about sending your children to WCS: whether teaching in person or through remote learning, WCS teachers LOVE what they do, they LOVE your children, and they boldly believe in serving your family. Many communities, sadly, cannot make that claim. You can.   I pray for you every day. I know that the Lord has something good in store for our WCS family. Do not give up. Hope in God (Psalm 42:5). He will not fail us. He loves you and your family, and he placed WCS in your life so that you and your children might be reminded, even in the darkest of moments, that God is near and that He will provide for us.   A good friend recently shared a song with me that I wanted to share with you. It is what I pray for you and your family. Listen here and be encouraged.   God bless you!   John Attwood Superintendent Western Christian Schools www.westernchristian.org   Western Christian Schools | 3105 Padua Ave | Claremont, CA 91711 | 909-291-4700 | support@mywcs.com

• 7/27 Superintendent's Update -Reopening Plan

  In this Communication from the Superintendent: WCS re-opening plans in two documents A note on risk CDC confirms that schools should re-open if able to do so safely Getting our campuses ready What’s changing? Why? Two Commitments Dear Western Christian Family,   I pray that all of our WCS families and students continue to be well and are enjoying the last month of summer.   Our Plans for Re-opening our Campuses for 20-21!   As Western Christian makes plans for the re-opening of its campuses for both in-person (if possible) and online instruction on September 8, we want you to know what school will look like under our new “WCS Re-opening Plan.” I have attached a copy of two campus re-opening documents for your review. The “WCS Re-opening Plan” contains helpful information about our approach to increasing safety on our campuses from COVID-19 in a very readable, accessible manner for families. In addition, the “WCS COVID-19 Prevention Plan,” provides a more detailed description of our campus safety standards and protocols. Both of these documents were written based upon guidance from the Center for Disease Control and the San Bernardino and Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. They have been reviewed by the WCS Board of Trustees, employees, parents, and local health experts with experience in COVID-19 treatment and policy.   Though they have remained open throughout this pandemic, our Claremont and Upland preschools will be beginning the new school year on August 17 as planned. They continue to operate under the guidance and direction of the California Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing Division in both San Bernardino and Los Angeles County.   Please remember that we live in a time of rapid change. It is likely that some of the protocols and standards in the document could change in accordance with new direction from medical experts/government officials and based upon the needs of our school. Our intention is to continue to refine this plan to achieve the safest possible route to the reopening of our campuses. We reserve the right to make changes to these documents in the interest of safety and the broader needs of our school if necessary.   Consider the Risk   It is important for our WCS community to remember that, while these plans provide a route to increased safety on campus from COVID-19, they do not ensure safety from the virus. It is highly possible, some might even say likely, for students and employees to be infected by COVID-19 in the 20-21 school year. WCS will do all that it can to mitigate the spread of virus on campus, but it cannot promise that infections will not occur. Parents must consider this possibility. I encourage you to also consider that medical experts claim that 40% of all COVID-19 transmissions come from asymptomatic carriers. This means that many who have the virus are unaware that they have it (no fever, no noticeable discomfort), and, therefore, they can very easily transmit the virus to others, even with screening processes in place. Therefore, the nature of the disease makes it very difficult to screen, and it will be difficult for us as a school to prevent the spread of virus with certainty.   For students who are immune compromised/family members who are immune compromised or for families who are simply not comfortable with their children returning for in-person instruction, WCS will be providing year round, live, daily online instruction through our remote learning program. If you are interested in this option please notify our front offices. More information about that program will be coming soon to those interested families.   WCS Students Need to Be in School   That being said, Western Christian believes that students need to be in school as soon as possible. Though the virus is real and certainly dangerous, Western Christian believes it must serve its students by offering an in-person education if possible. In its recently released (July 23) guidance for reopening schools in Fall of 2021, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) makes the researched case for school openings when it states: Schools are an important part of the infrastructure of our communities, as they provide safe, supportive learning environments for students, employ teachers and other staff, and enable parents, guardians, and caregivers to work.  Schools also provide critical services that help meet the needs of children and families, especially those who are disadvantaged, through supporting the development of social and emotional skills, creating a safe environment for learning, identifying and addressing neglect and abuse, fulfilling nutritional needs, and facilitating physical activity.  School closure disrupts the delivery of in-person instruction and critical services to children and families, which has negative individual and societal ramifications.  The best available evidence from countries that have opened schools indicates that COVID-19 poses low risks to school-aged children, at least in areas with low community transmission, and suggests that children are unlikely to be major drivers of the spread of the virus.  Reopening schools creates opportunity to invest in the education, well-being, and future of one of America’s greatest assets—our children—while taking every precaution to protect students, teachers, staff and all their families.   Our kids need to be in school. The medical leaders of our nation confirm that school is essential and that it is possible for schools to open safely.   What We Are Doing to Get Ready   As you will see in the attached plan, Western Christian is taking every precaution we can to protect our students on our campuses. In addition to the development and implementation of these plans we have/will be doing the following before school begins: Providing training to our teachers on promoting and educating students in positive hygiene habits and safe practices. Installing six new handwashing stations on campus Purchasing 4 new electrostatic disinfection packs (misters) for the cleaning of surfaces on campus Implementation of a cleaning/disinfection plans for high traffic areas, particularly bathrooms, classrooms, and playgrounds by a larger number of staff members Purchasing of “no touch” thermometers for screening of students and employees Purchasing of PPE (masks, face shields, hand sanitizer) for both employees and students Maximizing social distancing space in classrooms Ensuring proper ventilation and air filtration in classrooms Dedicating a space on each campus to hold suspected COVID-19 students or employees Installing plexiglass barriers in our Preschool, MS, and HS offices Conferring with medical professionals to ensure that we are as ready as we can be for school Appointing designated compliance liaisons on each campus to ensure that our plans are being followed and to provide education and communication to employees and students related to the plan. Assessing the viability of and potentially implementing a regular testing system for all employees. What’s changing? Why?   In order to re-open campuses as safely as possible, there will be necessary changes for students. We understand that some of this will be uncomfortable. Please know that the  intention of these changes is not to cause discomfort or anxiety for students and families, but rather to comply with expected safety standards provided by the Department of Public Health (DoPH) and to keep our students/employees healthy and at school. A lack of compliance in these areas could increase the spread of virus or expose someone to the virus and trigger DoPH required isolation from campus. Here’s what’s different: Students from grades 3-12 will be expected to wear a mask while on campus (there could be exceptions to this on the grounds of a medical position).Masks will be strongly encouraged but not required for grades TK-2. Teachers and other staff members will be required to wear a mask. Though we love the friendly and communal culture of our campuses, in this season campuses will be closed to parents and visitors. Please understand that this is out of a desire to prevent the potential of spread and mandatory quarantines for students, employees, and parents. We look forward to when the nature of the pandemic changes and we can have our families back on campus. Classrooms will look different. Desks will be spaced as far apart as possible. Some classes may even be in different locations to maximize distancing. Arrival and pick-up times will be staggered for TK-8. Recesses and lunches will be staggered to allow for smaller groups. The HS will be operating with a block schedule this year. Much more learning will be done outside as weather permits. Singing and the use of musical instruments will occur outside the classroom when required. WCS will provide campus-wide communication about COVID-19 infections. If there is a confirmed infection on campus, communication will be sent to all parents and employees. The identity of infected individuals will remain confidential.  There is certainly more for you to see and learn in the attached re-opening documents. Please look through them and become familiar with these changes.   Two Commitments   Our desire is to return as normally as possible as soon as possible, but that cannot happen unless we commit to do two things together: 1) support and follow these plans for the safe re-opening of our campuses, and 2) stay committed to the mission and future of Western Christian Schools no matter what happens this year. If we as a WCS family do those two things together, our campuses will remain open, safe, and our children will be able to continue to come to God’s school long into the future. Please continue to pray for our school, our families, and our nation. God is in control, and He loves us!   WCS Re-opening Plan.pdf WCS COVID-19 Prevention Plan.pdf   God bless you, God bless your family, and God bless Western Christian Schools!   Sincerely,   John Attwood Superintendent Western Christian Schools www.westernchristian.org Western Christian Schools | 3105 Padua Ave | Claremont, CA 91711 | 909-291-4700 | support@mywcs.com

• 7/21 Superintendent's Update

  In This Superintendent Update:   A word of encouragement from Mr. Attwood Western Christian’s Position on Recent Orders Regarding California Schools WCS continues to be the best option in ’20-’21 The Path to In-person Instruction for ALL students Changing of School start Date from August 17 to September 8 No additional tuition payments/costs A Better Remote Learning Program with Daily Virtual Classroom Experience Reopening Plan Update and Communication Date Change     Dear WCS Family,   Magic Mountain and the Need for Control What a crazy roller coaster ride we are on together! I remember the first time I went to Magic Mountain and saw real roller coasters. They were huge, intimidating in their scale, speed, and variety. If COVID-19 were a roller coaster, it might be the biggest, scariest ride in the park! Admittedly, I have never been a huge fan of roller coasters. There is something painful about giving up control to a machine designed to race you to what feels like the precipice of death and return you safely at the end. That process has never been a source of joy for me, though I envy those who can throw their hands up in the air and scream with a smile. Rather, in life I want control, and I tend to do all I can to avoid having to submit to anything outside of my control.   Yet, here we are in a season of what feels like little to no control. We cannot seemingly individually control the spread and impact of COVID-19, the resulting orders and mandates from government, or the ability to offer in-person education for all of our children. This roller coaster is screaming and careening down the tracks and we cannot see or feel how it will resolve. This would all be terrifying and depressing except for one reality: the existence of a sovereign, faithful, loving, and eternally good God who NEVER changes, the very God that our school loves and worships. He has allowed us, maybe even wants us (depending upon your theology) to ride this roller coaster together and all for the great purpose of seeing that He alone is to be the source of our hope and the primary object of our affection.   I believe that we will make it to the place of safety on this ride. In the process, try along with me to let go of fear and the need for control and instead hope in God (Psalm 42:5) and remember that He has us in His hands, and He will not fail us or our kids. Our school verse for ’20-’21, Isaiah 43:19, promises us that he will make a way where there seems to be no way. In this passage, God says, “Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.” He has us and this pandemic in His capable hands. You never know; at the conclusion of all of this, we just mind end up thinking it was a wild but worth it ride.   WCS’ Position on the Recent Mandate from Governor Newsom Some of you have responded to my July 19 update regarding Governor Newsom’s order with both pleas for obedience to governmental direction or with urgings to fight against governmental overreach. I understand and love the hearts of all of you. I know that both responses come from a place of love for people and for God, and I respect that greatly.  Western Christian believes in obeying God’s Word (the Bible). God’s Word gives the command (admittedly with exceptions, one notably mentioned in Acts 5:29) to submit to leaders in government. For the believer, there is no avoiding this command unless our ability to proclaim and worship Christ is fundamentally taken away. That has not happened (yet), and, therefore, we will comply with this order given that there is a defined and achievable path back to in-person instruction.   Some things to consider in relationship to this order: Governor Newsom has ordered that school campuses (public and private) remain closed until the counties in which those schools operate are removed from the state COVID-19 watch list and have received approval for reopening from a county Department of Public Health (DOPH) officer following submission of an approved reopening plan. While campuses remain closed, students, would be required to learn through remote instruction. As you know, Western Christian Schools has campuses in two counties – both San Bernardino and Los Angeles counties (you can view county specific watch list data here); thus it is possible for one county to be removed from the watch list and another remain. On behalf of WCS, I have already applied for a waiver that would, if granted, allow for elementary (potentially grades TK-8) students to attend school in person regardless of county infection rates, which is possible under Newsom’s order. The basis for WCS’ waiver request is that infection rates in our city and surrounding area are comparatively low compared to the rest of the county as a whole. Los Angeles County Department of Public Health will assign an officer to determine whether that waiver will be granted.   What makes ’20-’21 better at Western Christian? We see a path to in-person instruction in fall! You may be wondering whether in-person instruction for WCS students is even achievable this fall. Perhaps you are considering in enrolling in another online program. I would strongly caution against that, particularly because we have a route to in-person instruction, and even if that became unachievable, I believe that our new remote learning option will be better than anything offered elsewhere. So much is happening and changing around us so quickly that any move away from WCS would be imprudent.   First, know that whenever San Bernardino and Los Angeles County are removed from the watch list and have received DOPH approval, we will be back on campus and instructing students in person. That is not a question of if but when. Public school districts cannot say the same. Those sending kids to exclusively online programs are forfeiting the opportunity for in-person instruction. WCS parents do not have to make that difficult choice. There is also the reality of recent, significant, and positive developments in the creation of a vaccine that could completely change the complexion of this crisis. We also do not know how federal decisions on schools/intervention could impact this order from our Governor.   In addition to these possibilities and the granting of an elementary waiver, we believe that we have identified a solid route toward offering in-person instruction for all grade levels at the outset of our school year, and this involves changing our start date. Therefore, WCS has officially decided to push back our school start date for all grade levels to September 8. This change in start date will provide two immediate benefits to families and to our staff: This calendar adjustment will allow our counties more time to move off of the state watch list thus extending the window for starting school in person. Time (to adapt and prepare) is a tremendous blessing in a season of frequent change. Our hope is that within the next six weeks (up to September 8) our counties would be removed from watch lists and receive approval for reopening. Then all of our students might return. The change to our start date will also allow us more time to prepare our teachers and staff for a safe reopening of campuses and the fine tuning of our remote instruction program for students that will be learning online.   No additional tuition payments/costs No. Our tuition schedule and structure will remain the same. Our instructional time will be roughly the same, and the same tuition will be applied.   A Better Remote Learning Program with Daily Virtual Classroom Experience Our Educational Technology Staff and administrators have developed a means of providing live, daily instruction from the classroom from our amazing teachers. This means provides a virtual window into every classroom for every student of every grade every day school is offered. There are not comparable online options like this, not with our fantastic teaching staff and Christ-centered curriculum. Our teachers will be teaching every day from their own classrooms and utilizing all of the tools and resources available to them on campus. If students are unable to tune in for whatever reason, all instructional recordings will be automatically uploaded to a site where each student can view their teacher’s daily instruction in addition to tracking homework and resources via myWCS, Western Christian’s proprietary learning management system. We have acquired web cams for every classroom and microphones for all of our teachers so that they are heard and understood by all of our students. Thus, even if instruction was forced to take place online temporarily, Western Christian is poised to offer an online platform that is as close to being in the classroom as possible. This is the best of both worlds – a commitment to in-person instruction and live, daily online instruction through our remote learning program.   Reopening Plan Update and Communication Date Change We were poised to provide our Western Christian Campus Reopening Plan to families this Wednesday. However, given the nature of changes in the Governor’s requirements for the reopening of schools, we need to make adjustments to our plan and finalize these changes to our reopening plan with Board of Trustees. We now expect to provide that to families no later than Monday, July 27.   I continue to pray that you and your family would be safe from harm, at peace with God’s plan, and full of the joy that attends living a life following Jesus Christ. God bless you all!   Sincerely In Christ,   John Attwood Superintendent Western Christian Schools Western Christian Schools | 3105 Padua Ave | Claremont, CA 91711 | 909-291-4700 | support@mywcs.com

• 7/16 Superintendent's Update

  Dear WCS Families,   As you have likely heard/read, Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD) and many other school districts in Southern California announced that they will postpone the start of on-campus instruction and will reopen in a distance learning format until further notice. This announcement has huge implications for the learning and development of children in Southern California. However, Western Christian is not bound to their decision. Western Christian functions as its own school district, and as of now districts have the freedom to decide when and how to reopen. As the second largest school district in the country, LAUSD has massive, logistical complications to reopening successfully that smaller schools like WCS do not have. Under the direction of the Board of Trustees Western Christian Schools is committed to reopening our campuses for in-person instruction on August 17. We will be reopening utilizing a reopening plan that includes taking all necessary safety precautions. WCS administration will continue to evaluate the current state of LA and San Bernardino counties and guidance issued through them as we make reopening decisions. It should be noted that, at some point all schools, public and private, will have to reopen, and we, along with other private Christian schools in our area, doubt it will be after everything is declared 100% safe to do so. No one knows when that will be, and much learning could be forfeited by that time if campuses remained closed. Delaying the learning of our students and potentially putting them at risk to other social-emotional health concerns is too great a cost. We believe that children need to be in school. They need to be with their friends and teachers that love them, growing and learning every day. Most importantly, our students need to learn about our great God and His love for them through Jesus Christ every day! We plan to take advantage of the first few weeks of school to establish safety standards on campuses, build relationships, and assess the academic status of our students and bridge learning gaps that may have resulted from the previous year. We will also use the time to teach students and parents about online learning in the event that we are required to temporarily go online for all students. It is possible that, due to mandates from our counties, we would need to toggle in and out of online learning. We hope that will not be the case, but we want our students and families to be prepared for this if/when it occurs. We have every intention to keep your children on the learning continuum for their grade level. WCS kids will not fall behind! We want every parent to remember that in-person schooling has inherent risk. WCS can not promise or guarantee safety from COVID-19 or other communicable diseases. We will do all we can to provide a safe environment. Please remember that families have the option to attend school remotely in the convenience and safety of their homes and rejoin our school once they feel it is safe to do so. We plan to release our reopening plan on Wednesday of next week, July 22. Due to the fluid nature of pandemic and subsequent decisions/mandates in our area, it must also be noted that our plans could change based upon unforeseen decisions and circumstances. Thank you for your continued patience, and God bless you and your family! Sincerely,     John Attwood Superintendent Western Christian Schools www.westernchristian.org

• 6/30 Superintendent's Update

  Dear Western Christian Family,   I pray that your summer is going well and that you are enjoying some measure of adventure and fun with your family in this strange season. If you are like me, you may have experienced many highs and lows on this journey through the COVID-19 pandemic. The one constant that exists outside of my fluctuating feelings and the daily changes I see in world around me is the fact that God does not change (Hebrews 13:8, James 1:17, Numbers 23:19). Ever. Even better, His love for you and me is unchanging (Jeremiah 31:3). Despite what we see and hear in this challenging and frightening world, God is in control, and He promises those who love Him that it (as bad as it may be) will all work out for our good (Romans 8:28). Take heart in that promise from an unchanging God. Remind your family of it. No matter what, because of the unchanging goodness and faithfulness of God, we are going to be okay.   An Update on the WCS Campus Reopening Planning Process I wanted to update you on our reopening plan process. Western Christian has been working hard on developing its reopening plan. We expect to unveil it to you soon in mid-July. You may be wondering why it has taken this amount of time. Western Christian has been seeking both medical and legal counsel throughout this process, asking for opinions on everything from masking to temperature taking to how to manage a COVID-19 outbreak. We have also consulted with a variety of private Christian schools in our area to share ideas and find the ideal route to offering a full, Christ-centered education in this pandemic. In addition, we have frequently consulted with the San Bernardino and Los Angeles County Departments of Health. It has been a journey, particularly as state orders have changed in the middle of the process.   As Safe as Possible, As Free as Possible, While Honoring Authority We continue to plan for a full return to our campuses for our students and teachers on August 17. Again, our plan for that reopening will be communicated to you in mid-July. Our aim continues to be to provide education as safely as possible with as much freedom as possible. It should be noted that as we seek to provide both freedom and safety for our students we will obey those in authority over us. This is a biblical mandate, and our plan aims to honor what God has asked of us in this way.   Online Program – Contact Us if You Are Interested In addition to our full reopening of our campuses, we will also be offering a TK-12 online option for any student/family who, because of COVID-19 concerns, wishes to participate in our online program rather than receiving on-campus instruction. This program will be similar to what was offered in our period of distance learning with added personal connection through live streams of class sessions and a separate weekly tutoring/instruction period offered by our teachers for all online students. This would be offered at the same tuition rate as a full time, on campus tuition. If you already know that you wish to participate in this program, we would ask that you contact our offices and let our administrators know of your desire. We want to prepare for as accurate count of families as possible.   Please Pray for Us Pray for us as we continue to prepare for a monumental year in the history of our school. We need the Lord’s wisdom, knowledge, strength, and perseverance.  Pray that our hearts would be encouraged and readied for the 2020-2021 school year. We want to serve Jesus Christ and his children with boldness and gladness. No matter the challenges, no matter the uncertainty, Western Christian is built on loving a certain, unchanging, always faithful, God. He will guide us through this together!   Sincerely in Christ,   John Attwood Superintendent Western Christian Schools www.westernchristian.org

• 5/18 WCS Superintendent Update

  In this message from Mr. Attwood:

  • We made it! Congratulations!
  • Thank you!
  • What about next year?
  • ’20-’21 Tuition Deposit Reminder

   

  Hello, Western Christian Family!

   

  We Made It!

  Well, we have arrived at the finish line! You made it! Congratulations! The end of our 100th school year is here, and what a year it’s been. We’ve had some amazing memories together, haven’t we? Our fun 100 year rallies, our 100th Year Anniversary Dinner and Reunion, the best Homecoming Festival ever, amazing chapels, new academic courses, technological advancements in the classroom, CIF playoffs, sports league championships, and a monumental shift to distance learning. It ended with a very big and unexpected bang.

   

  We Did It Together!

  COVID-19 happened, and it affected all of us. There have been many highs and lows in this journey to the end of the year. I’m sure that in your home, like mine, there have been tears shed matched only in intensity by laughter and sweet moments of bonding that your family will remember forever. Who would have thought that we would be closing the year like this together. Yet, God knew, and He has brought and continues to shepherd our WCS family through this challenging time. My favorite memory of this year will actually center on this season of adversity. I witnessed a school community of teachers, students, parents, staff, and administrators join together to walk a generation of children through one of the most challenging seasons in our nation’s history. We didn’t know what the future held. We didn’t know all of the answers to questions. We made a decision together to love Jesus, teach the truth, and serve others. We concluded the 2019-2020 school year together all while fulfilling the mission of our 100 year old school. In the process, our students grew and are now ready for the next grade level. In a time of required distance, we stayed together to ensure our children were educated, discipled, and loved. God with us made that happen. What a God! What a school! What a family!

   

  Thank You, WCS Seniors and 8^th Graders! Thank you, WCS Students! Thank you, Parents!

  I am so proud of our Seniors and 8th graders. They have handled a very difficult and painful season with grace, patience, kindness, and focus. Beyond our test scores, beyond college admissions, the evidence of the fulfillment of our mission is in the quality of the character demonstrated by our students. Seniors and 8th grade students lost much at the conclusion of this year – Prom, trips to Uganda, New York City, and Washington DC, Senior Trip, a standard graduation and promotion (though we are still aiming for in-person events for both Seniors and 8th grade). They missed out on these moments, but they did not complain or despair. Thank you Seniors and 8th Graders for your courage, faith, and hope. I love you, and I’m proud of you.

   

  I am also very proud of the rest of our amazing students. Students, you have done an outstanding job in this transition to distance learning. You also sacrificed many special moments on campus and you did so with amazing patience and commitment. Thank you.

   

  Parents, you get a big virtual high five from me! You were awesome facing this crisis! You took on the challenge of distance learning with tenacity and faithfulness. You blessed your children in this way. I am grateful to you and so proud of you all for your willingness to see it through to the end with us. We went through this as a team, and you are phenomenal teammates. Thank you!

   

  What About Next Year?

  I know that the question you are likely asking right now is “What does next year look like?” We are asking the same thing and daily developing/searching for answers. There is much that we still do not know, but here is what I do know:

   

  • We plan to open campuses to students on August 17 as previously planned unless a change is required based upon the directions of our State and Local government and public health authorities. As you know, our preschools have remained open through this pandemic as they are licensed facilities and approved by the county continue offering services to families.

  • We will be prepared to move to distance learning, either a full-time or hybrid model, should a move back to that mode of education become necessary. One thing that I can assure you is that, should that move be required for a significant period of time (a month or more), our service to you will be even better – more robust, more personal, and more refined. I believe that WCS did an amazing job adjusting to the need of the time, but with more time to prepare and augment our service to you, we will be even better at delivering a quality, personalized, Christ-centered education. We are praying ardently that distance learning will not be needed. We love seeing and being physically present without students. Pray with us for a safe, on-campus school year for WCS in 2020-2021.

  • We recognize that safety for our students and staff will be of paramount importance as we begin the year. At this point, we are utilizing the School Reopening tool offered by the CDC as our basis for decision making, in addition to the shared plans of schools and universities in our area. I have attached and hyperlinked the CDC School Reopening in this communication so that you know the fundamental basis for our thinking as we reopen. Keep in mind it is a very general framework for the national reopening of schools. As you know, WCS has campuses in both Los Angeles and San Bernardino counties. More will become clear in those counties with regard to schools, and we will adjust our plans to meet these local requirements. In the meantime, we are strategizing everything from new classroom layouts, lunch times, and the beginning and end times of school days to ensuring necessary social distancing in cafeterias, during recesses, and on busses. We have our hands full with new and interesting challenges. Two things are certain, God will walk us through all of these changes and we will be ready for our amazing students in the fall.

   

  ’20-’21 Tuition Deposit Reminder

  As the weeks and months unfold with new direction for Western Christian and the ’20-’21 school year, we will continue to update you with guidance about what school will look like next year. I want to encourage you, if you have not already, to make sure to secure your student’s ’20-’21 enrollment by making  your $50 tuition deposit. Spots continue to fill, as the word about God’s great school, WCS, has spread, If you need any help in the enrollment/reenrollment process, please contact our offices for assistance. We are happily waiting to assist you with any of your questions.

   

  Western Christian, remember that God loves you. He has a wonderful plan for you. A pandemic cannot stop the faithfulness and sovereignty of our God, nor can it delay or inhibit His unceasing love for us. Take comfort and hope in that. I pray that the Lord continues to bless you and your family with protection and provision. God bless you, Western Christian!

    

   

   

  John Attwood

  Superintendent

  Western Christian Schools

  www.westernchristian.org

• 4/29 WCHS Let's Finish LANCER STRONG!

  Included in this update:

  • PLANS TO RETURN
  • “LET’S FINISH LANCER STRONG” PARENT AND STUDENT SURVEY
  • BE ENCOURAGED
  • ALL STUDENTS EXEMPT FROM FINAL EXAMS
  • PROGRESS REPORTS AND SEMESTER 2 GRADES
  • AP EXAMS
  • CHOIR TOUR AND SENIOR TRIP REFUNDS
  • CLASS OF 2020 END OF YEAR ACTIVITIES
  • GOD HAS A BETTER PLAN

   

  Hey Lancers,

   

  With less than one month to go before the start of summer vacation, I want to provide you with some important details and encourage everyone to finish Lancer Strong.

   

  PLANS TO RETURN

   

  Western Christian High School is praying that we will have an opportunity to resume on campus instruction before the end of the school year. However, we are ready and prepared to finish the school year through distance learning as necessary. We are evaluating this option every week in consultation with relevant governing bodies. If on campus instruction does resume and your student is not able nor comfortable to return to campus, we will continue to provide options for distance learning for you.

   

  “LET’S FINISH LANCER STRONG” PARENT AND STUDENT SURVEY

   

  As we venture into this final month, we’d like to offer families another opportunity to provide feedback on our distance learning program. I encourage both parents and students to visit www.westernchristian.org/hssurvey to let us know how you are doing and provide us information on how we can help students succeed and meet the needs of your family.

   

  BE ENCOURAGED

   

  Yesterday, Governor Newsom stated that there is a significant educational gap for California students. Public schools are being stifled by inadequate technology, teacher unions, and overwhelming teacher to student ratios making distance learning a near impossible feat. Many educational compromises are being made. Some school are having to issue credit only for courses in place of letter grades, negating all the hard work that students put in for the semester.

   

  I want to affirm your decision to be at Western Christian, especially during these times. I am pleased to inform you that WCHS students will not be behind. I am very proud of the determination and resilience of our teachers and students and I believe they will be set apart in the coming years.

   

  Allow me to share some specifics, so that you can continue to take advantage of your WCHS education.

   

  ALL STUDENTS EXEMPT FROM FINAL EXAMS

   

  In line with our goal for student success, the WCHS administration has made the decision to exempt students from all final exams. Final exams can be a challenge for students under normal circumstances and could prove even more difficult and stressful due to our time away from campus. Without finals, teachers will have more time to ensure all course learning objectives are achieved. Additionally, this will limit conflicts with the College Board’s schedule for AP exams taking place during the last two weeks of school. The weight of each final exam will be proportionately absorbed into the remaining categories of class gradebooks and thus have no impact on students’ Semester grades.

   

  PROGRESS REPORTS AND SEMESTER 2 GRADES

   

  The final progress report for Semester 2 is now viewable in myWCS. Without finals, students should now have a firm understanding of their course grades and the work that needs to be done to maintain or improve what will become their transcripted grade for Semester 2. Teachers are being extra generous with make-up work and corrections due to the present extenuating circumstances. It is imperative however, that students take advantage of every opportunity in this last month. Please reach out to directly to teachers if you’d like to discuss opportunities to improve students’ grades.

   

  AP EXAMS

   

  AP exams will be taken online and at home. A full schedule and course specific information can be found here: https://apcoronavirusupdates.collegeboard.org/students/taking-ap-exams/ap-exam-schedule. AP exams are conducted directly through their host company, College Board. Students have and will continue to receive communication via the email that they used when they registered for their exam. Students can communicate directly with College Board or their AP teacher for any assistance.

   

  CHOIR TOUR AND SENIOR TRIP REFUNDS

   

  WCHS is beginning to receive refunds from 3^rd party companies involved with our previously planned Choir Tour and Senior Trip. Refunds are schedule to be issued through each student’s SMART account. You can contact High School Student Accounts Coordinator, Chela Simpson, at csimpson@westernchristian.org if you have any questions.

   

  CLASS OF 2020 END OF YEAR ACTIVITIES

   

  This and next week, I will be working with the Senior Class and our “Senior Class Task Force” to solidify plans and dates for our end of year Senior activities. It doesn’t appear that a proper in-person graduation will be feasible on May 22^nd as scheduled. We will be exploring every opportunity to plan the best option for some form in-person graduation ceremony while also evaluating alternative dates to do so. While many schools have replaced graduation with a “virtual ceremony” or cancelled it entirely, we know that our students’ priority is to be together, to reconnect during this unusual year, and celebrate their tremendous accomplishment. While solidifying plans for graduation takes precedence, we acknowledge the importance of Prom and Senior Trip and will continue to discuss opportunity for these events.

   

  Seniors’ last day of “class” will remain May 15^th and we are discussing various opportunities to celebrate and connect with our seniors during the week of May 18^th. We are also planning a campus drive through activity so that Seniors can pick up their cap and gowns, cords and stoles, yearbooks, and other special items. Additionally, we are planning to stream a special Baccalaureate Service on Friday May 22^nd. Many more details will follow.

   

  If you have any input, ideas, or opinions regarding any senior activity, please email me directly.

   

  GOD HAS A BETTER PLAN

   

  I know that none of us planned to do school like this, and so far, each plan to return to campus has been extended by our government. I’m sure we can all relate to the frustration of not being able to make plans right now. As my own family’s plans have changed, and I encounter fear and uncertainty, God’s word has been more meaningful and alive than ever before. Consider the following verses:

   

  “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.“ -Romans 8:28

   

  “No mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him.” -1 Corinthians 2:9

   

  As Christians, if we really believe what we say we believe, then we know, that no matter what plans have been ruined by COVID-19, we will all be good. Love God above all else, trust in His promises for your life and for the lives of you children, and you can know that these trials and circumstances will be part of something good that God has planned for your family.

   

  I love you WCHS. I pray I get to see you in person soon!

   

  Principal Doolittle

• 4/29 Letter and Survey from Mrs. Browning

  Dear Western Christian Families,   We have 16 more days of school until summer vacation! I want to encourage both parents and students to fight to stay “Lancer Strong” as we cross the finish line.    PLANS TO RETURN Western Christian School is praying that we will have an opportunity to resume on campus instruction before the end of the school year.  However, we are ready and prepared to finish the school year through distance learning as necessary.  We are evaluating this option every week in consultation with relevant governing bodies.  If on campus instruction does resume and your student is not able nor comfortable to return to campus, we will continue to provide options for distance learning.   BENEFITS OF ENROLLMENT AT WCS DURING DISTANCE LEARNING Schools around the country continue to struggle in developing solutions to continue school.  Inadequate learning management systems, complicated negotiations with teacher unions, and overwhelming class sizes make distance learning a near impossible feat.  Of the many compromises schools are having to make, some are opting to only issue course credit in place of letter grades, negating all the hard work that students put in for the semester.   I am incredibly proud of the great work our teachers have done during this pandemic. Western Christian has continued to help students thrive in following ways: With small class sizes and the best teachers on the planet, students can depend on relationships with their teacher to ensure they don’t fall behind.  Any student at WCS can reach out to their teacher and receive one on one help and opportunity for improvement. Students will receive letter grades for the semester, and teachers will work with each of them to provide opportunities for continued success. Community interaction through devotions, chapels, ASB activities, Music, Library, Man Cave, Girls in Prayer, etc. have continued, as we seek to honor the school experience as best possible. WCS can provide opportunity and flexibility in response to each families’ unique circumstances. myWCS has allowed us the technological advantage to continue distance learning, while providing students an appropriate measure of independence in coordination with live instruction. In these unprecedented times, WCS is able and willing to work one on one with families to help each student succeed.   6th- 12th GRADE STUDENTS EXEMPT FROM FINAL EXAMS In line with our goal for student success, the WCS administration has made the decision to exempt students from all final exams. Final exams can be a challenge for students under normal circumstances, and could prove even more difficult and stressful due to our time away from campus.  Without finals, teachers will have more time to ensure all learning objectives are achieved.  The weight of each final exam will be mathematically absorbed into the remaining categories of class gradebooks, and thus have no impact on students’ semester grades.   GRADES Without finals, students should have a better understanding of their grades, and the work they need to do to maintain or improve what will be their final grades for the semester.  Teachers are being generous with make-up work and corrections due to the present extenuating circumstances.  It is imperative however, that students take advantage of every opportunity in this last month.  Please reach out directly to teachers if you’d like to discuss opportunities to improve grades.   “LET’S FINISH LANCER STRONG” SURVEY As we venture into this final month, we’d like to offer families another opportunity to provide feedback on our distance learning program.  Please let us know how you are doing, and provide us information on how we can help students succeed as we complete this school year.   Survey Links: Elementary School (grades TK-5):  https://www.westernchristian.org/elesurvey Middle School (grades 6-8):  https://www.westernchristian.org/mssurvey YEAR END ACTIVITIES Over the next couple of weeks, the WCS administration will be exploring every option to hold some form of an in-person 8th grade promotion ceremony, and evaluating alternative dates to do so.  While many schools have replaced promotion with a “virtual ceremony” or cancelled it entirely, we know that our students’ priority is to be together to celebrate this accomplishment.   We are also discussing ways to bring closure to the school year that is special and honors the work of all students. More details on these activities will be forthcoming.   Let’s finish Lancer Strong!   God bless you and keep you,       Mrs. Browning Principal

• 4/24 Superintendent Update

  Dear Western Christian Family,

   

  Be Encouraged!

  I pray that you are well. I have been thinking about you frequently in this time of absence, wondering about you and your family – whether you are encouraged, struggling, or in need of hope. Know this: No matter what you are facing in this crisis, you and your family matter to God. He sees you, loves you, and wants you to cast your cares on Him. Beyond any worldly comfort, I pray that the reality of God’s love through Jesus Christ would be your source of strength, peace and hope today. James 1:12 reminds believers in Christ, “Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” Hang in there! Keep the faith, Western Christian! Hope in the Lord Jesus Christ. He will never fail us! (2 Timothy 2:13).

   

  When Can We Return?

  Like you, I have been anxiously watching, praying, and waiting for encouraging news about a potential reopening of our economy and school. We miss you very much. However, the loosening of the restrictions placed on businesses and gatherings has not yet taken place. Governor Newsom has not given an indication of a clear reopening date, though over our Easter break, he did extend the earliest potential reopening to May 15. Certain criteria in our state and its counties must be fulfilled before reopening, and a clear time table (at the time of writing this letter) for that has not been provided. WCS will continue to wait and watch for the potential of a return this year. I want you to be assured of this – if we can give students even one day of school to see their classmates and be on campus (all while obeying guidelines for gatherings and proper social distancing, of course), we will do it. We know how much that means to our students and parents, and we will fight for every minute, hour, and/or day at Western Christian that we can secure for our students. As I have said before and will say many times in the future, our kids and families – you – are worth it!

   

  What If We Cannot Return?

  You may be asking what will happen if we cannot conclude the school year together on campus. Should that occur, then our school year will conclude with distance learning. Our Middle School and High School students will not be taking finals this year due to this crisis but will be concluding classes in a summative manner specific to the courses they are in. We continue to welcome your feedback about your child’s learning experience. Please do not hesitate to reach out to our teachers and administrators with any thoughts you might have. We are listening, and we care about what you think.

   

  Seniors and 8^th Graders – We’ve got you!

  Our hearts break for our students preparing to advance to the next stages of education. Seniors and 8th graders, your pain is our pain. We are in this with you! I particularly want our 12^th and 8^th grade students and their families to know that we remain committed to providing an in-person graduation and promotion ceremonyif we can do so lawfully, even if those events must take place in summer or a later date. We understand and agree that these are important moments in the lives our students, and we will not abandon these rites of passage because of this crisis. Again, we love our graduates and future 9^th graders, and we will do everything we can to ensure a safe, God-honoring, event that they can attend in person to receive a diploma and advance to the next stage of their education when we are permitted. Principals are actively working with students to solicit feedback about these events. Feel free to share your thoughts or desires with them. In addition to this, we will also be working on a virtual means of celebrating and honoring these students in this calendar year. We also have some special surprises for you just to let you know we love you!

   

  We Want to See You!

  In addition, we continue to plan for ways to express love and care for students in all grades. We have more fun and interactive social media campaigns that are on the horizon for preschool through 12^th grade, and our teachers are continually exploring new ways to make learning personal and meaningful from a distance. To the level that you are able/comfortable, please get involved with these campaigns. Post in our Facebook communities. Tag Western Christian with your accounts. We want to see you! It encourages all of us. Make sure you are connected to our Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and Twitter accounts to keep up with the fun we’re having as a school family.

   

  I pray that the Lord continues to bless you and your families with health, hope, and joy. Your WCS family and I love you very much.

   

  God bless you!

  Sincerely,

   

  John Attwood

  Superintendent

  Western Christian Schools

  www.westernchristian.org

• 4/03 Superintendent Update

  Dear WCS Parents,

   

  I have been praying for you, Western Christian family, for what feels like every hour of every day. You are dear to me and the Western Christian staff. We miss seeing you and your children. We cannot wait for this challenging season to be over so that we can see you and experience the joy of community once again. Know this: with each passing minute in what feels like darkness, we draw nearer to dawn.  

   

  I am writing to update you on the status of our campus closures. As you likely heard this week, California’s State Superintendent of Education made a recommendation for public schools not to return to campuses for the remainder of the ’19-’20 school year. Governor Newsom subsequently confirmed this decision. In addition to a commitment to providing safety to our community, there were/are many other factors that informed this decision. California’s Department of Education is an extremely large entity with a massive budget, thousands of employees, and has to negotiate all school plans for reopening campus closures and distance learning expectations with the California Teachers Association, one of the largest and most powerful teachers unions in the nation. The size and complexity of public schooling in California does not allow for flexibility with calendars, budgets, and personnel. As a result, are not able to make short term decisions in these areas.

   

  Western Christian Schools is not a public school, and we are proud of our identity. WCS is an independent ministry. We have significantly greater flexibility than public schools as it relates to calendar, finance, and personnel. Thus, we are more nimble in our decision-making process and communication. This is evident in our ability to so quickly pivot to remote learning in a week, an approach that many public school districts have yet to implement. This is a testament to the structure of our organization and a commitment to the greater good of our students. Loving and serving our families is our greatest commitment.

   

  Some of you have asked why we have not made an adjustment and closed campus for the remainder of the school year in concert with public schools. The quick answer is because we do not need to make that decision right now. We do not have any obligations to unions or governmental budget constraints, unlike public schools. We will abide by the legal mandates of Governmental authorities and consider the recommendations of both Los Angeles and San Bernardino County Department of Public Health. We continue to daily evaluate our return date, and if we have certainty about the need to extend campus closures for safety purposes or in accordance with the expectations of those in authority over us, then we will without hesitation. I can assure you that we will not ever put our students or employees in an unsafe learning environment. Safety is our first priority. That being said, we have until May to make a formal declaration about the remainder of the school year. We owe it to you, our families, to continue to prepare for a potential return to campus should things change. As soon as it is deemed safe to return, you can be sure we will be ready to receive our students.

   

  When it is safe to return (if it is within the ’19-’20 calendar school year), we will return – not a moment sooner or later. You can continue to look for weekly communication from me about this.

   

  On a separate note, I want to reiterate that if your family is experiencing a verifiable financial hardship as a result of this season, please contact our Student Accounts Coordinators, Jacqui Doolittle (for our Claremont campus at jacquidoolittle@westernchristian.org) and Chela Simpson (for our Upland campus at csimpson@westernchristian.org). We are helping families navigate this challenging season, and we are committed to aiding families so that their student can continue their education and be prepared for an awesome ’20-’21 school year at Western Christian. Please let us know if you need help.

   

  I pray that the Lord continues to bless your family with health, hope, faith, and love. He is with you.

   

   

  John Attwood

  Superintendent

  Western Christian Schools

  www.westernchristian.org 

   

• 3/31 WCHS Remote Learning Week 2 Update

  03.30-04.03 Live Zoom Session Tracker.pdf   03.31.20 WCHS Weekly Bulletin.pdf   Hey Lancers,   I am so proud of our school! Students, you are a cut above all the rest, and I applaud your discipline, efforts, and enthusiasm during these unconventional times. I am confident that God is accomplishing something wonderful in all our lives because of these cicumstances.  Who are we proud to be? Lancers!   A quick update for the week. If you need the abbreviated version, scan for the bold text 😊.   SURVEY RESULTS   Parents, thank you for taking the time to complete the Remote Learning First Week Parent Survey. Our staff was grateful for your your appreciation and encouragement.   “I am so proud of the efforts our teachers and staff are making during this difficult time thank you and may God continue to protect you and bless you all the days!!!"   “Keep up the great work.  Western light years ahead of the public-school system. What the teachers and administration has been able to accomplish in order to provide a remote classroom experience in such a short time is amazing. “   “I’m so thankful that I have my child at WCHS right now!”   Today at 3pm, after our staff devotions, we discussed opportunities for improvement based upon the feedback you provided. I want to encourage each of you to continue to reach out to me directly if you continue to see opportunity to better serve your family.   LIVE ZOOM SCHEDULES   A major theme in the survey results was that parents would like more clarity on the schedule for Live Zoom Sessions. In response to this, we will be sending out a complete “Live Zoom Session Schedule”, like the one attached here: 03.30-04.03 Live Zoom Session Tracker.pdf. This will be sent each week prior to Monday so that you can regularly track your student’s schedule in addition to the information provided in myWCS.   We understand that Mondays are long days for students, but we believe that meeting with each class will ensure students have the best opportunity to understand the objectives and assignments due each week.   All our Live Zoom Sessions are scheduled to provide the greatest service and benefit to students. We anticipate that students and families may have circumstances that may prevent them from joining live sessions. This is expected in these times and is completely okay. If your student is unable to attend a live session, simply message your teacher so they can help you locate a recording of the session that was missed.   If your student misses multiple sessions throughout the day our administrative team may check in, not because your student is in trouble, but because we want to make sure that you and your student have everything needed to be successful during this time.   ACADEMIC HELP FOR STUDENTS   There will be times that students need assistance beyond the scheduled Live Zoom Sessions. Please encourage your students to message their teachers through myWCS. Our teachers are committed to helping students however they can, including scheduling one on one Live Zoom Sessions.   Additionally, our school is still hosting Math Lab and Foreign Language Lab every day after school from 3-4pm.  Our Counseling Center is available on Tuesday's and Thursday's from 2:30-3:30pm. Visit one of the following links to join these Zoom Sessions at their scheduled times. https://www.westernchristian.org/mathlab https://www.westernchristian.org/languagelab http://www.westernchristian.org/counselingcenter   STUDENT LIFE   Who says we can’t have fun together while we are all at home? Clubs will continue to meet online and our athletic teams will have unique opportunities to stay active. Follow us on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/wchs_studentlife/ and https://www.instagram.com/westernchristian/ for Chaplin Devotions, Spirit Week Announcements, Lancer Nation News, Quarantine Challenges, a special Prom Court Announcement, Chapel Talks, Deep Devos with Mr. Nelson, and more.   Additionally, while a bit more complicated, we continue to evaluate our options to move forward with the Spring Musical Production of The Little Mermaid.   It may not be the same as being on campus, but we are committed to being creative and doing anything we can to provide the complete high school experience for our students. Who knows, even a Madden 20 Powder Puff tournament could be on the horizon.   Please see the attached Bulletin for further information: 03.31.20 WCHS Weekly Bulletin.pdf   SENIORS   It is difficult to plan specifics at this time, but let me assure you that this principal is resolved to provide a Prom, Senior Trip, and Graduation Ceremony for our seniors. I don’t know where and I don’t know when, but regardless of how long this “Safe at Home” order remains, we will find a way to redeem your senior year better than any other high school can.   I love you WCHS! God bless you,     Principal Doolittle

• 3/31 Superintendent Update

  Dear WCS Families,   Given the recent federal recommendation to remain at home through April 30, Western Christian has decided to keep our campuses closed and continue remote learning until Monday, May 4th. We plan for students and teachers to return to school on May 4th. With regard to campus events and activities that were scheduled within this time of campus closure, please look for relevant communication from our Principals, Mrs. Browning (TK-8th) and Mr. Doolittle (High School). Easter break will be observed from April 10 through April 17. Instruction will not take place during that time.   Our Claremont and Upland WCS Preschools remain open to preschool students, Transitional Kindergarten, and Kindergarten students. Our preschools are deemed an essential service to our community by the Department of Social Services, as many of our students are children of our brave and noble first responders and medical professionals. Because of our compliance with the rigorous cleaning standards required by DSS under Title 22, our Preschool facilities have been deemed clean and safe for children. If you are interested in having your Preschool –Kindergarten student attend, please contact our Claremont Office and we will assist you.   We miss you all, and we are looking forward to your return. Remember, this is temporary, and we are going to get through this together. You are doing great, Western Christian! You make me proud to be a Lancer!   “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”  2 Timothy 1:7   Sincerely, John Attwood Superintendent Western Christian Schools www.westernchristian.org

• 3/26 TK & Kinder Letter to Parents

  Hello, Transitional Kindergarten and Kindergarten Parents!   Great News from the Department of Social Services   Last Tuesday, Western Christian Preschool was part of an official conference with the Department of Social Services (DSS), a state-run agency that oversees all preschool and childcare facilities. DSS is not recommending closures for child care centers. In fact, they are encouraging us to stay open. DSS suggested preschools file for waivers allowing for Transitional Kindergarten and Kindergarten students to receive care in preschool facilities. Preschool and childcare facilities provide an essential service to parents in the community, particularly families of first responders, health professionals, and employees offering essential services in this uncertain time. We have filed that waiver and we have been approved to offer service to TK and Kindergarten families.   Our preschools are filled with the children of these wonderful people, people like you. Our hearts remain focused on the needs of our precious families. This is why we have accepted the call to extend care to our Transitional Kindergarten, and Kindergarten children within our preschool classrooms. You do not have to be a first responder or health professional to receive this care, though first priority will be extended to those families.   Our plan is to have Teacher’s Aides work to assist these students in remote learning within our preschool facility and supervise classroom interaction. The classes will be kept at a 10:1 ratio, and these students will not be co-mingled with the preschool students. Our preschool hours are 6:30 am -6:00 pm. Spots will be limited.   If you are interested in this offer for your child, please contact the Claremont Preschool at (909) 626-1377. You will need to fill out a few forms for emergency purposes before your child begins receiving this service. Your tuition payment will remain the same. This is a service our preschool would like to offer our families.   Cleaning and Disinfection Protocol – It sets us apart We are following best practices to keep our children safe, as recommended by the CDC and in compliance with DSS and Title 22. Because of our commitment to these cleaning and disinfection practices and based upon the communication from DSS, we have no immediate threats to our facility.   These are the measures we are taking immediately for those who choose to come to preschool: Temperatures will be taken as your child enters, any temp 99.0 or over will not be able to stay. Please wash your child’s hands at our hall bathroom before dropping them off to the teacher in the opening class, a teacher will accept your child, we are asking that no one enter the classroom, please. During pick up we will bring your child to you at the kiosk area at the front of the school, we are asking that no one but children and teachers enter the classrooms. We are running every classroom under ten students. We are sanitizing toys daily. We wipe all surfaces off throughout the day. Tables are cleaned before and after meal times. Floors and rugs are mopped and cleaned daily. No outside visitors are admitted into the preschools. All tours have stopped until further notice. TK and Kinder Temporary Room Schedule.pdf   Blessings and health to you all,   Christi Navarrette Executive Preschool Director

• 3/23 Helpful Tips From the CDC

  Dear WCS Families,   I hope you are having a productive Monday! I am so proud of our teachers and the work they are doing to keep our students moving forward academically. Please let us know if we can help in anyway, as we all adjust this week.   I ran across these tips to keep children healthy while school’s out from the CDC, and thought I would pass it along.     Michelle Browning Principal Western Christian School        Children and Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)   Based on available evidence, children do not appear to be at higher risk for COVID-19 than adults. While some children and infants have been sick with COVID-19, adults make up most of the known cases to date. You can learn more about who is most at risk for health problems if they have COVID-19 infection on Are you at higher risk for severe illness.   Steps to protect children from getting sick   You can encourage your child to help stop the spread of COVID-19 by teaching them to do the same things everyone should do to stay healthy. Clean hands often using soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer Avoid people who are sick (coughing and sneezing) Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces daily in household common areas (e.g. tables, hard-backed chairs, doorknobs, light switches, remotes, handles, desks, toilets, sinks) Launder items including washable plush toys as appropriate in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. If possible, launder items using the warmest appropriate water setting for the items and dry items completely. Dirty laundry from an ill person can be washed with other people’s items. You can find additional information on preventing COVID-19 at Prevention for 2019 Novel Coronavirus and at Preventing COVID-19 Spread in Communities. Additional information on how COVID-19 is spread is available at How COVID-19 Spreads.   Children may present with mild symptoms   The symptoms of COVID-19 are similar in children and adults. However, children with confirmed COVID-19 have generally presented with mild symptoms. Reported symptoms in children include cold-like symptoms, such as fever, runny nose, and cough. Vomiting and diarrhea have also been reported. It’s not known yet whether some children may be at higher risk for severe illness, for example, children with underlying medical conditions and special healthcare needs. There is much more to be learned about how the disease impacts children.   Children don’t need to wear face masks   No. If your child is healthy, there is no need for them to wear a face mask. Only people who have symptoms of illness or who are providing care to those who are ill should wear masks. School Dismissals   Children and their friends   Limit Social Interactions: The key to slowing the spread of COVID-19 is to limit social interactions as much as possible. Parents should minimize play dates, and if held, parents should keep the groups small. Advise older children to hang out in a small group and to meet up outside rather than inside. It’s easier to keep and maintain space between others in outdoor settings, like parks.   Practice Social Distancing: If you have small meetups, consider hanging out with another family or friend who is also taking extra measures to put distance between themselves and others (i.e. social distancing).   Clean and Disinfect: Make sure children practice everyday preventive behaviors, such as cleaning and then disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.   Revise Spring Break & Travel Plans: Parents should help their older children revise spring break plans that included non-essential travel to crowded areas.   Remember, if children meet outside of school in bigger groups, it can put everyone at risk. Information about COVID-19 in children is somewhat limited, but current data suggest children with COVID-19 may show only mild symptoms. However, they can still pass this virus onto others who may be at higher risk, including older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions. Help children continue learning   Stay in touch with your child’s school. Many schools are adapting in-person lessons to online or virtual learning. Review assignments from the school, and help your child establish a reasonable pace for completing the work. You may need to assist your child with turning on devices, reading instructions, and typing answers. Communicate challenges to your school. If you face technology or connectivity issues, or if your child is having a hard time completing assignments, let the school know. Create a schedule and routine for learning at home, but remain flexible. Have consistent bedtimes and get up at the same time, Monday through Friday. Structure the day for learning, free time, healthy meals and snacks, and physical activity. Allow flexibility in the schedule—it’s okay to adapt based on your day. Consider the needs and adjustment required for your child’s age group. The transition to being at home will be different for preschoolers, K-5, middle school students, and high school students. Talk to your child about expectations and how they are adjusting to being at home versus at school. Consider ways your child can stay connected with their friends without spending time in person. Look for ways to make learning fun. Have hands-on activities, like puzzles, painting, drawing, and making things. Independent play can also be used in place of structured learning. Encourage children to build a fort from sheets or practice counting by stacking blocks. Practice handwriting and grammar by writing letters to family members. This is a great way to connect and limit face-to-face contact. Start a journal with your child to document this time and discuss the shared experience. Use audiobooks or see if your local library is hosting virtual or live-streamed reading events. School meal services   Check with your school on plans to continue meal services during the school dismissal. Many schools are keeping school facilities open to allow families to pick up meals or are providing grab-and-go meals at a central location. Keep children healthy   Watch your child for any signs of illness. If you see any sign of illness consistent with symptoms of COVID-19, particularly fever, cough, or shortness of breath, keep your child at home and away from others as much as possible. Follow CDC’s guidance on “What to do if you are sick.” Teach and reinforce everyday preventive actions. Parents and caretakers play an important role in teaching children to wash their hands. Explain that hand washing can keep them healthy and stop the virus from spreading to others. Be a good role model—if you wash your hands often, they’re more likely to do the same. Make handwashing a family activity. Help your child stay active. Encourage your child to play outdoors—it’s great for physical and mental health. Take a walk with your child or go on a bike ride. Use indoor activity breaks (e.g., stretch breaks, dance breaks) throughout the day to help your child stay healthy and focused. Help your child stay socially connected. Help your child reach out to friends and family via phone or video chats. Help your child write cards or letters to family members they may not be able to visit. Some schools and non-profits, such as the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learningexternal iconexternal icon and The Yale Center for Emotional Intelligenceexternal iconexternal icon, have resources for social and emotional learning. Check to see if your school has tips and guidelines to help support social and emotional needs of your child. Limiting time with older adults, relatives, and people with chronic medical conditions Older adults and people who have serious chronic medical conditions are at highest risk of getting sick from COVID-19. If others in your home are at particularly high risk for severe illness from COVID-19, consider extra precautions to separate your child from those individuals. If you are unable to stay home with your child during school dismissals, carefully consider who might be best positioned to provide childcare. If someone at higher risk for COVID-19 will be providing care (e.g., older adult, such as a grandparent or someone with a chronic medical condition), limit your children’s contact with those people. Consider postponing visits or trip to see older family members and grandparents. Connect virtually or by writing letters and sending via mail.

• 3/20 Superintendent Update

  Dear Western Christian Family,

  We are praying daily for you and your families, and we are in this with you. Things are changing rapidly around us, but two things remain the same: God loves your family and so does Western Christian.

  I want to encourage you in this time, so please watch the video in this email. This all has a purpose. God has a plan, and I believe that it is for our good. Take heart. We will get through this together.

  I also wanted you to know that we have decided to change our plans for when children will return to school. In commitment to honoring the ‘Safe At Home” order given by Governor Gavin Newsome that is in effect until April 19, we will not return to school on the previously scheduled date of April 6. We will now plan to return to school on Monday, April 20. Easter Break will still be observed from Friday, April 10 through Friday, April 17. Keep in mind, things change rapidly, and any return date we select could change depending upon the direction we receive from our local health departments. We will continue to evaluate weekly and communicate any extensions should they be necessary.

  I am praying that the first week of remote learning is amazing for our kids!
  
  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abnMrH9ZBUk&list=PLbV3L44P-befkKGbCiL_V7BqptQ2ATRtG&index=1

   

  God bless you and your family!

  John Attwood

  Superintendent

  Western Christian Schools

• 3/20 TK-8 On-Line Learning Instructions

  Dear Western Christian Families,   We miss you on campus! This has been a busy week for us. Teachers have been preparing to deliver online learning to their students, and we are so excited to reconnect! I hope you enjoyed watching the “Lancer House” video! We managed to squeeze in some fun this week, as well!   Communication Tools WCS’ remote learning program will be a mixture of live and recorded instruction in combination with documents, presentations, activities, and assignments, hosted primarily within myWCS.  Our teachers’ intent is to continue the consistency that students are familiar with in the classroom, but in an online format.     Elementary teachers will be in communication with you either via email, or if your teacher has been using other modes of communication, such as Class Dojo, that will continue. Please check those modes of communication regularly. Elementary will also be using VocabularySpellingCity. They are offering free access to their site for the rest of the school year. Your teacher will send you the information you need for this. Middle School teachers will communicate primarily through myWCS and Zoom. Teachers will be posting their assignments and recorded lessons in myWCS. Please check-out the link for instructions on how and where to access the information. The lessons are recorded and accessible when you are available. We know that some parents will not be home during the day and may need to watch lessons with their child when they get home from work. There is no set schedule each day. You can access the information at the time convenient for you each day. Please see the instructions attached, and the information listed on the Tutorial Links Page below, for instructions on setting up your student’s myWCS account. This is their own account, which must be accessed for assignments and lessons. If you have already set up your student’s account, the credentials have been reset to what is listed below on the Tutorial Links Page. There will be live Zoom meetings available with teachers. As mentioned in my letter earlier this week, you will need to download the Zoom app to participate in these meetings. Teachers will schedule times for the entire class to Zoom, as well as individual Zoom meetings to check in with students and parents individually. Please check out the link for instructions on using Zoom. Each teacher will have a link to join their Zoom video conference in myWCS on their Homeroom Bulletin Board. Students can use a computer, phone, or tablet to join these meetings.   Some Things to Keep in Mind Students will need a device.  A computer with a webcam is ideal, but a tablet or even a phone will be mostly sufficient. Please familiarize yourself with Zoom, and be sure your myWCS accounts are set up by Monday. Our office can assist you with any difficulty you have. School will officially start up on Monday, but again, there isn’t a set time for watching lessons or doing assignments each day. Login at the time most convenient for your family. That being said, we think it best that you create a consistent routine for your children. The will both learn and behave better if they have regularity in this process. Again, watch for teacher communication and be sure you are checking email daily. If you get stuck and need help on your end, don’t panic! We will take next week to work out the bugs and get everyone online and comfortable. Tech support is available. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call the school office. We are receiving calls during the day, from 8:00am to 3:30pm.  AR testing will be paused during this time. We encourage your students to keep reading and read for fun! We recommend a minimum of 15-20 minutes of daily reading for our students. For younger children, a wonderful time to read is before bed. It also reinforces relationship and comfort with you, and your children need that right now. Some of you may have heard from your teacher this week. If you haven’t, don’t worry, you will very soon. I am so proud of the hard work and dedication this team has put in these past few days, challenging themselves to learn new ways to educate and connect with their students in the midst of such a tenuous time, while dealing with issues and concerns with their own families. I am so thankful for the spirit of perseverance our school community has displayed in this season.   This week I was comforted by a devotional email I received. It is so easy to let anxiety creep in during such an unpredictable and unprecedented time in history. The devotional provided a different perspective that I think we could all use right now.     In the present global shutdown, bars have closed, sports has shut down, Disneyland, recreation and entertainment has shut down. As a result, families are at home, talking and eating together. People are quiet. The world is quiet. Children are home safe. Attitudes are changing, people are showing compassion toward others, we are coming together in a unity of heart and mind, and people are praying and looking to God for answers. –Headstone Ministries Life’s distractions have been minimized. We are forced to slow down and prioritize family and physical health. Let’s lean into this time, to learn all God has for us in this season.   We are praying for you and for family.    Shalom,   Michelle Browning Principal Western Christian School      Tutorial Videos Links   https://westernchristian.myschoolapp.com/ftpimages/808/download/download_4433953.mp4  How to download zoom and connect to a class.   https://westernchristian.myschoolapp.com/ftpimages/808/download/download_4434138.mp4 -How to access and navigate your child's myWCS     Middle School Students should already know their myWCS login information.   TK-5th grade Students Your students myWCS credentials are as follows:   Username: firstname.lastname Password: FirstnameDayofBirth                  First character of first name capitalized                                                                                Two-digit day of birth   For Example John Doe was born on 3/03/15 Username: john.doe Password: John03   These are temporary passwords. You will be directed to reset them upon their initial login. This is explained in the video.   2-myWCS Student Login.pdf     Any questions related to this information can be directed to it@westernchristian.org

• 3/20 WCHS Remote Learning Instructions for Monday

  Hey Lancers,   I’ve been so blessed to visit our virtual classrooms these last few days and see your children's smiling faces. I hope this unique time of community will continue to be a blessing to your family during these unusual times.   Our first official day of Remote Learning is coming up this Monday, March 23, 2020. As we have evaluated what is best for our students, I’ve made a few changes that may alter certain instructions teachers shared with students during their orientations.   On Monday, every class will have a Live Zoom Session with each of their teachers starting at their regularly scheduled class time (see below). Sessions will vary in duration based on each course.  During this time, teachers will provide students a brief overview of the week to make sure they get off to a great start and understand the objectives and assignments due throughout the week.     Period Start Time 1          8:05 AM 2          9:03 AM 3          9:56 AM 4          10:59 AM 5          11:52 AM 6          1:20 PM 7          2:13 PM   Additionally, we’ve established a “Code of Conduct” for our remote learning live sessions. Please review these details below.   If you ever have questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me directly. Our aim is to educate, serve, and love your family in this time, and I covet your input as we move forward.   Remember, have your students check their assignment center daily so that each day they know what they are to do for each of their classes.   I love you WCHS. God bless you,   Brandon Doolittle Principal Western Christian High School   WCHS REMOTE LEARNING CODE OF CONDUCT   Live Zoom Sessions will be a foundational tool to keep students connected and interacting as we venture into Western Christian High School’s remote learning program. The following code of conduct will ensure that effective, efficient, and distraction free learning will continue for our students during video conferencing sessions.   We understand that students and families may have circumstances that prevent them from joining live sessions. If this is the case, please message your teacher so they can provide you with information to help you catch up.   Please see the following expectations for Live Zoom Sessions. Webcam Etiquette  During Zoom Live Sessions we would prefer that your webcam be turned on and you remain visible to your teacher and classmates so that you can be participate in class time discussion. Because of this, you must be fully clothed, not in underclothing or pajamas, or wearing anything that is immodest or contains vulgar images or language. Zoom Live Sessions are intended to simulate a classroom environment, therefore, please do not lay in bed or walk around your house. Please do not setup live sessions in the bathroom. Also, try and avoid any part of your home where multiple people will be present as this may be a distraction for other participants.  If your location is noisy please be sure to mute your microphone in consideration of others. Students should position themselves so that they are sitting up at a table or similar environment where they would be able to take notes as necessary. If a student is ill and needs to stay in bed, they may contact their teacher and watch the recorded session at a later time. Accurate First and Last Name on Profile Your correct name must be listed during Zoom sessions. Profile images should only include proper photos of students. Do not use an inappropriate, humorous, or otherwise distracting images. No Virtual Backgrounds Do not use “Virtual Backgrounds” as this can be distracting for other participants. The entire class should see each other. Remember, this should simulate a classroom therefore, your teacher needs to see you and have your attention. Sessions Recorded Each session is recorded so treat your class time and others with respect while we are together. Do not make comments or do anything that would distract from the learning or offend another person. Zoom Chat Your language in all discussion and in chats must be clean and free from lewdness or profanity. Use your words to build others up and to enhance the learning environment. Protection of Privacy Protect your privacy and the privacy of others. Do not share other student’s private information, post stories or pictures of other students or any other thing that involves another person.  Attendance Attendance will be taken at live Zoom sessions so that we can follow up with students who may be having difficulty. Teacher’s will notify students through the assignment center when Zoom sessions will occur. If a zoom session is scheduled for a particular day, it will take place during the regularly scheduled time of a standard school day schedule for each class period. These scheduled times will be available under “Schedule” in myWCS. If you are unable to attend a Live Session, please notify your teacher and they can direct you to the recorded session so that you will be able to catch up on any missed instruction.

• 3/17 TK-8 Further Online School Instructions

  Dear Western Christian Families,

   

  Day one of remote learning training is complete!  Our faculty is working together and doing a fantastic job working toward maintaining the connection with your family, and continuing education with your student during this campus shutdown.  What a blessing to be a part of the Western Christian family during such trying times. We are here to love and support you! Even though we are not physically together each day, we have a deeper spiritual connection that transcends distance. You are in our thoughts and prayers and we love you.

   

  I want to provide you with an updated schedule and some additional necessary information as we make this transition.

   

  THIS WEEK 03.16.20 – 03.20.20. 

  • Monday – Friday are teacher prep and training days as we acquire new tools and resources to provide the best remote education experience possible.
  • By Friday we will introduce remote learning orientation with families.  Our IT department is working hard to provide you with clear instructions on how to help navigate your students. More information will be forthcoming, but the goal of this time is to ensure that all families understand and have an opportunity to experiment with the structure and technology used in this remote learning format. 

  NEXT WEEK - MONDAY 03.23.20

  • Monday is the official start date for remote learning.  Families will receive teacher instructions for the week. Lessons will be recorded and available throughout the week for you to access during the timeframe that in convenient for you, realizing that some of you may be working during the day.

  WHAT YOUR STUDENT WILL NEED

  • Students will need a device.  A computer with a webcam is ideal, but a tablet or even a phone will be mostly sufficient.
  • Please download Zoom at https://zoom.us/.  Zoom has apps for computers, tablets, and phones.  Zoom is the platform we will be using for teacher hosted “live sessions”.  A “live session” is where teachers will video conference their classes or for a scheduled, individual or small group meeting.

  WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

   

  WCS’ remote learning program will be a mixture of live and recorded instruction in combination with documents, presentations, activities, and assignments hosted primarily within myWCS.  If you have not accessed your myWCS account, it is imperative that you do so immediately. Instructions are attached to this email. You will not be able to access lessons without having access to your account. Also, your student has their own myWCS account that will need to be accessed. Directions for accessing your student account will come later in the week.

   

  2-myWCS Parent First Login.pdf

   

  Our teachers’ intent is to continue the consistency that students are familiar with in the classroom, but in an online format.  Teachers will be available to students and interacting with them on a regular basis.  The teachers can’t wait to see your kids, and are doing everything they can to make this experience a blessing for your family during these difficult times. They have so many great ideas for ways to stay connected, from having story time together to devotionals and worship!

   

  More information will be coming later in the week.  Please feel free to contact me with any questions.

   

  Shalom,

   

  Michelle Browning

  Principal

• 3/17 WCHS Update and Important Info for this Thursday

  Hey Lancers,

   

  Schools around the nation have closed their campuses. Unfortunately, many schools are struggling to feasibly continue education remotely. Let me encourage you. As I’ve said many times before, you are enrolled at the best school on the planet! For the past two days our teachers have been training and preparing our plans for WCHS’ remote education program.  I have been blown away at the creativity and capability of our teachers. I’m confident that your family will be blessed to be part of the WCHS community during these difficult times.

   

  The following is an update of our schedule as we make the transition to remote learning.

   

  THIS WEEK 03.16.20 – 03.20.20. 

  • Monday through Wednesday are teacher prep and training days as we acquire and refine new tools and resources to provide the best remote education experience possible.
  • Thursday and Friday teachers will begin remote learning orientation with students. See schedule below.  The goal of this time is to ensure that all students have an opportunity to practice using our remote learning technology as they receive instruction and guidance from their teachers. Students will be able to join teachers virtually using “Zoom” video conferencing software.  Practice assignments, discussions, and assessments will be available so that teachers can work with students to troubleshoot any potential problems.

  WHAT YOUR STUDENT WILL NEED

  • Students will need a device.  A computer with a webcam is ideal, but a tablet or even a phone will be mostly sufficient.
  • Students will need to create a free Zoom account at https://zoom.us/.  Zoom has apps for computers, tablets, and phones.  Zoom is the platform we will be using for teacher hosted “live sessions”.  A “live session” is where teachers will video conference their classes as they would occur during the regular school day or for an alternatively scheduled individual or small group meeting.

  THURSDAY AND FRIDAY STUDENT ORIENTATION SCHEDULE

   

  Students are asked to join in live sessions with their teachers beginning this Thursday, 03.19.20. Each teacher will have a link to join their Zoom video conference orientation session on their class “Bulletin Board” in myWCS. Students can use a computer, phone, or tablet to join these meetings. Students should follow the times below to join these Zoom sessions as they correspond to the order of their course periods. These session will be brief, so be sure to sign in on time.

   

  Thursday 03.19.20

  • 1^st period – 9AM
  • 2^nd period – 10AM
  • 3^rd period – 11AM
  • 4^th period – 1PM

  Friday 03.20.20

  • 5^th period – 9AM
  • 6^th period – 10AM
  • 7^th period – 11AM
  • Q&A with teachers as needed – 1PM

  MONDAY 03.23.20

  • Monday is the official start date for remote learning.  As shown in their orientations, students will be directed to the assignment center for a comprehensive list of instructions and assignments for each of their courses.

  WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

   

  WCHS’ remote learning program will be a mixture of live and recorded instruction in combination with documents, presentations, activities, and assignments hosted directly within myWCS.  Our teachers’ intent is to continue the consistency that students are familiar with in the classroom, but in an online format.  Teachers will be available to students and interacting with them, on camera, on a regular basis.  The teachers can’t wait to see your kids. They are excited to continue your students’ academic progress while loving and caring for them.

   

  Please feel free to contact me with any questions.

   

  I love you WCHS.  God bless you!

   

  Brandon Doolittle
  Principal
  Western Christian High School

• 3/16 Superintendent Update

  Dear WCS Parents,

   

  The WCS Staff and I are praying for you and your families. Though there will be a temporary distance between us (and we pray that it ends soon), our hearts are with you and your precious children. We will continue to be available to you and your families over the phone, through email, and via our learning management system, myWCS.com. If you have any difficulty accessing myWCS.com please communicate that to our offices. We will support you as needed.

   

  Phasing in Remote Learning Using myWCS.com and Teleconferencing Software

  This week our teachers will continue to prepare for our implementation of remote learning that will begin on Monday. We have purchased webcams for all teachers who do not have one at home in order to facilitate teleconferencing. In the meantime, it would be wise for you to consider how you/your child can access the internet to utilize myWCS.com and the additional online resources that will be employed by the teachers. If you or your family do not have access to the internet at home, please contact your local internet provider. Many internet providers are offering 60 days of free service to families with children TK-12 at this time. We ask that all students acquire a Zoom teleconferencing account so that students have the capability of interacting with their teacher(s) in real time. This product is free and can be accessed at www.zoom.com. You will need to assess how your child might be able to teleconference using an existing webcam on your home computer or through a tablet. Teleconferencing will allow our teachers to have personal interaction with our students. Both our students and our teachers will need that interaction in this time of social distancing.

   

  Be Patient and Flexible

  We are all in new territory here. We are learning how to navigate this along with you.  Our teachers are smart, equipped, and fast learners, but there will likely be hiccups in the process of delivering remote education during our school’s temporary closure. Much of what we will spend this week addressing are those potential hiccups, but should you have a future issue or concern related to instruction, please direct your concern, as you typically would, to the teacher. If the issue/concern remains, or if it does not involve instruction, please contact your student’s campus administrator. By working together to solve issues, we will be able to navigate this well.

   

  Create A Daily Routine and Provide Boundaries

  As you know, children need routine, particularly in an uncertain time like this. Routines create order around what may feel like confusion and disorder, and order is needed for the mental and emotional health of our kids. Here are some thoughts to guide you:

  • Look for ideas about creating routine at home online. Here’s a nice article from Time magazine to get you started.
  • Limit screen time.
  • Make sure your kids get physical activity. Jumping jacks, running in place, playing basketball in the front yard – whatever it takes, get your kids moving each day.
  • Spend time talking and praying together each night. Our children will be feeling and thinking many things. They need a safe place to express them; they need you. Ask multiple questions. Pause to listen. Provide encouragement. Share scriptures that remind your student of God’s promises. Here’s a great article from Focus on the Family regarding talking to your children about COVID-19.
  • Our teachers will be providing recommendations and resources on myWCS.com to help you based upon what we believe is developmentally appropriate.  We will also share ideas through our social media accounts.
  • Establish expectations and boundaries for your routine. Kids need to know what is expected of them, and they need accountability to ensure that they rise to that expectation. Maintain loving discipline at home. We want to comfort and encourage our children, but we do not want to be lax in structure. It will make it all the more difficult when they need to re-enter a school environment when life returns to whatever normal will be at that point. No matter how it may feel, that time is coming, and our kids need to be ready.
  • Finally, reach out. Connect with other parents by connecting with our social media accounts. If you have some great ideas, share them through social media and feel free to tag Western Christian. Some things may work great, others might not. The key is consistency in commitment and flexibility in practice.

   

  Remember to Lead

  Leading is difficult in crisis. Fear and anxiety abound. It goes without saying, but as adults, we must discipline ourselves to manage our responses to things because young ones take their cues from us. We need to lead them through this crisis rather than commiserate with them in it. I was watching the news recently while my kids were doing their homework. As a breaking news story was delivered, my daughter, Abby, stopped her work and immediately looked at me wondering what kind of impact the story would have on me. “Dad, what does it mean?” her eyes said. She needed to see me confident and at peace. Measure your responses in front of your children, and try and not be like me – turn off/mute the news when they are around. They do not need to know everything the adults know.

   

  What about tuition and refunds?

  Some of you have inquired about tuition and refunds. First, please remember that school is not stopping. We are continuing with the education of every enrolled student. Grade level and subject specific learning objectives will still be met so that students are able to progress academically. Please also understand that tuition income is the lifeblood of our school. If we do not receive tuition income, then our school cannot operate and offer the education your child needs. We depend on tuition income to pay our wonderful teachers, aides, maintenance staff, and administrators who love and serve your children. If you are experiencing verified financial hardship in this season, we ask you to speak with our Finance offices on both campuses. We want to work with you through this challenging time. We can and will get through this together. Should you choose to withdraw your student, all current refund policies would apply. We believe that campus closures will be temporary. We do not know their duration yet, but we do not expect them to be long. In the meantime, I believe we will serve our students and families in way that maintains hope, peace and ensures a quality education for every child.

   

  If Your Family Is in Need…

  Remember that you are part of a bigger Western family. We want to care for you during this season. If you find yourself needing prayer, encouragement, or even supplies in this time of need, please reach out to our Family Care Team, led by Greg Letherer, at familycare@westernchristian.org. Greg Is a kind, loving, and trustworthy hero of Western Christian, as well as our Alumni Relations Director, and he and others on the team, will be a source of great hope should you need it.

   

  Hope Abounds

  Be encouraged. Our God is faithful. One of His names, Emmanuel, literally means “God with us.” If our faith is in Him and the work of Jesus Christ, then He is with us. We’re not alone in this. We have God and each other. That reality is what makes Western Christian Schools the best school on the planet. Psalm 91 has become our schools’ unofficial passage of scripture for this time. Read it with your family each night. Think on it. Pray it. It is a description of a powerful, faithful, protective, and loving God, our God. He is with us.

   

  God bless you and your family!

   

  Sincerely In Christ,

   

   

  John Attwood

  Superintendent

  Western Christian Schools

  www.westernchristian.org

• 3/13 Superintendent COVID-19 Update

  Dear WCS Parents,

   

  I pray that you and your family are well. What a fascinating and, yes, challenging time to be alive! But take heart – God chose you for this time to lead your family through this time. I am asking the Lord to encourage and strengthen your household as we face this unprecedented circumstance. God’s got this, and, because of that, so do you!

   

  Our Communication Strategy

  I am writing to share that we are broadening and streamlining our communication strategy to give you the most specific and up to date information. The majority of information forthcoming will be given to you from our school Principals, Michelle Browning (TK-8) and Brandon Doolittle (High School), our Preschool Director, Christi Navarette (for both our Upland and Claremont Campuses), and our Athletic Director, Mike Hargis. I will still be communicating with you, but I want to make sure that, as circumstances change, the information you receive is as specific and timely as possible. Having all communication flow through me does not allow for the speed needed to address a dynamic situation for a variety of families with students in varying grade levels and on two campuses. You can be assured that I will be assessing and even contributing to all of the communication that comes your way. Any “all school” communication will continue to come from me.

   

  School Next Week?

  We are assessing the continuation of school next week by the minute. We are aware of an increase of district closures in Southern California. We want to offer education and care to our students and families as long as we possibly can. We will make every effort to stay open, but, as I have mentioned before, the health and safety of our students and employees are our first priority. We are in communication with the CDC, San Bernardino and Los Angeles County Departments of Health, our local school districts, and local health professionals (including an Infection Control Officer/Disease Specialist for hospitals in our area and Emergency Medicine Physician affiliated with multiple hospitals who is also overseeing testing sites in a nearby county for COVID-19). Our preschools will continue to operate under the direction of the Department of Social Services. We will continue to avoid rumor and conjecture and listen to the experts. We have tremendous sources of information, and we use that information to communicate with you. Be encouraged that WCS is giving you accurate and timely info. More information and direction will be coming to you later today from our Principals and Directors.

   

  What’s Happening Today?

  As of today, recesses and lunches will take place in classrooms (the rain helped with that transition for our students, thank you Lord!) We continue to follow our cleaning and disinfection protocol that was communicated to you earlier this week.

   

  If You Are Not Comfortable Sending Your Child to School…

  We understand. Please do what you believe is right for your family. Your student will be well taken care of at school as campuses remain open, but we respect and stand by the decisions you make as parents in this unique time.

   

  Teacher Readiness

  Our teachers have already begun training in remote learning. They will be ready and are 100% bought in to meet the needs of our students remotely. I addressed our high school and TK-8 teaching staffs yesterday at the beginning of a training meeting, and I want you to know what I witnessed firsthand – they love your children and are passionate about leading and teaching them through this challenging season. They are engaged, hopeful, even excited about serving you in a new manner. They love their students and your family, and they want you to know that. I love our teachers and staff!

   

  Again, more information and direction will be coming to you later today. In the meantime, take courage. You and your family are loved by God and by Western Christian Schools.

   

  John Attwood

  Superintendent

  Western Christian Schools

  www.westernchristian.org

• 3/13 Preschool COVID-19 Update

  Dear Preschool Parents,

   

  In response to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus), Western Christian Preschool will follow the direction of Department of Social Services (DSS), Community Care Licensing Division’s Title 22 for both campuses. You may have already received communication from our High School and TK-8 Principals about campus closures for high school and TK-8 students. At the time of this communication, our preschools will remain open. WCS Preschool will continue to abide by direction from DSS and the Department of Health regarding any future changes.

   

  I thought it would be fitting to share what we do at our schools every day in compliance with Title 22. We have strict cleaning standards that we follow every day at our preschools to keep children healthy, and to counterattack the possibilities of viruses and communicable diseases. We wash down all of our school surfaces and tables daily. We sanitize tables before and after they eat snacks, lunches, crafts or play. We wipe our chairs down daily, and spray toys with a sanitizer every evening. Every child in our preschools wash their hands every time they use the restroom. We always wash the hands of our younger children in diapers when they are finished being changed.

    

  Again, this is not simply because of COVID-19; rather, this is our everyday process, even without a threat of what we are facing now. Rest assured that we take all of these measures daily to keep your children safe and healthy. We have custodians who empty our trash, clean and sanitize floors, carpets and our restrooms every evening. Western Christian Schools has added a daily, early morning anti-viral spray to be sprayed on all surfaces throughout every classroom and bathroom in the early mornings at both campuses and in every school.

   

  We have also instructed all staff to stay home when they are sick, and we need students to do the same. Please contact the school office if your child is absent and/or if your child has come in contact with anyone exposed to COVID-19.

   

  Helpful websites:

   

  https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/workplace-school-and-home-guidance.pdf

  https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/prevention/Pages/Prevention-In-Child-Care-or-School.aspx

  https://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/prevention/Pages/Hand-Washing-A-Powerful-Antidote-to-Illness.aspx

   

  In this unpredictable time that we face in our world today, we know that our God is unshakable. We will keep you posted on any changes that take place immediately. Let’s all pray for Western Christian Schools protection and wisdom together. We will march forward and get through this as a Western Christian family. Take comfort in what God says to us:

   

  “Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High will rest in the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, ‘He is my refuge and my fortress, my God in whom I trust.’ Surely he will save you from the fowler’s snare and from the deadly pestilence. He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. You will not fear the terror of night, nor the arrow that flies by day, nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness, nor the plague that destroy at midday.” Psalm 91:1-6

   

  God bless you and your family,

   

  Christi Navarrette

  Executive Director

  Western Christian Preschools

• 3/13 High School Campus Closure Beginning Next Week

  Dear Western Christian High School families,

   

  The administration and Board of Trustees for Western Christian Schools has made the decision to close WCS campuses for grades TK-12 effective Monday, March 16. This decision has been made out of an abundance of caution in collaboration with our neighboring school districts.

   

  At this time, in cooperation with the Ambassador League, all athletic competition is being postponed until further notice.

   

  These changes initiate our plans for remote online instruction. Our faculty have been preparing for this transition, and we fully intend to continue student learning so that students will be prepared for graduation, college admission, and AP testing.

   

  Our faculty will meet on campus next week to continue extensive training and planning for the initiation of remote education. Parents and students should verify that they have access to our myWCS.com platform and that all contact information, specifically email and phone numbers, are accurate for both students and parents.

   

  Further information will be communicated next week as plans for remote education are solidified. A start date for students beginning classwork will be communicated next week.

   

  Students are asked to take all schoolbooks and related class materials home today, Friday March 13^th, in preparation for this transition.

   

  We do not currently have a known case on campus, but given the increasing spread in the region and the heightened global concern, we are making this decision to prioritize the health and well-being of our students and families. As of today, our plan is to remain in step with our local school districts and return to campus Monday, April 6. However, we will continue to monitor and assess the global and local situation, and make changes to this date if necessary.

   

  We will be doing a deep cleaning of the campus during this closure. You can expect further communication from us as we continue to assess the end-of-year events, such as trips and gatherings.

   

  I understand that this is a great deal of information to take in, and that there are immediate plans that need to be made. I ask that you reach out to us with your questions and concerns so that we can be of assistance to you. We will be in frequent communication in the coming days and weeks.

   

  I can think of no better time to be a Lancer. Selfishly speaking, there is no place I would dare have my children at this moment. I know that they are loved, cared for, and encouraged by the entire WCS community. I encourage us all to embrace this time with our children to reflect on the importance of our faith and the eternal hope we have in Jesus Christ.

   

  We will get through this together, as a family, and we will all be better for it. Glory be to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

   

  I love you, WCHS. God bless you!

   

   

  Brandon Doolittle

  Principal

  Western Christian High School

• 3/13 COVID-19 TK-12 Closure

  Dear Western Christian Families,

   

   

  The administration and Board of Trustees for Western Christian Schools has made the decision to close campuses for grades TK-12 effective Monday, March 16. 

   

  This decision has been made out of an abundance of caution in collaboration with our neighboring school districts.   This will begin our process for remote online instruction. 

   

   

  Our faculty have been preparing for this transition, and we fully intend to continue student learning. Our faculty will meet on campus next week to continue extensive training and planning for the continuation of remote education.  Parents and students should verify that they have access to our myWCS.com platform and that all contact information, specifically email and phone numbers are accurate for both students and parents.

   

  Students are asked to take all school books home today, Friday March 13^th, in preparation of this transition. Further information will be communicated next week as plans for remote education are solidified.  Students will not be expected to complete work on Monday.  A start date will be communicated next week.

   

  We do not currently have a known case on campus, but given the increasing spread in the region and the heightened global concern, we are making this decision to prioritize the health and well-being of our students and families. As of today, our plan is to remain in step with our local school districts and return to campus Monday, April 6. However, we will continue to monitor and assess the global and local situation, and make changes to this date if necessary.

   

  We will be doing a deep cleaning of the campus during this closure. You can expect further communication from us as we continue to assess the end-of-year events, such as class trips and gatherings.

   

  I understand that this is a great deal of information to take in, and that there are immediate plans that need to be made. I ask that you reach out to us with your questions and concerns so that we can be of assistance to you. We will be in frequent communication in the coming days and weeks.

   

  I encourage us all to embrace this time with our children and reflect on the importance of our faith and the eternal hope we have in Jesus Christ. We will get through this together, as a family, and we will all be better for it. 

   

   

  Glory be to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

   

  Shalom,

   

  Michelle Browning

  Principal

• 3/11 WCHS Preparation and Plans for COVID-19

  March 11, 2020

  
  Dear Western Christian High School Families: 
  
  I’d like to express how proud I am of our school community’s continued response to the developments of COVID-19. Our parents, students, faculty, and staff have shown tremendous maturity and poise during these unsettling times. Today, I am proud to be a Lancer.

   

  As our school navigates this developing situation, I want to keep you informed of the various plans and steps that are being taken to secure the safety and health of our high school community. The administrative team is working daily to get the most up-to-date information so that best decisions are made. As of this afternoon, there are ZERO confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the San Bernardino County. Because of the nature of the disease, we might see that change. The Department of Public Health has assured us that we will be contacted with any update affecting our school community.

   

  Campus Sanitation Enhancements. We are increasing our sanitizing schedule with regular scheduled cleaning of surfaces in the classroom, cafeteria, offices, restrooms, common areas, etc. All staff have been informed and asked to adhere to the CDC’s best practices for disinfecting surfaces. The following are some specific adjustments:

  • Disinfectant cleaning will occur every evening
  • Disinfectant spray will be utilized each morning before school
  • Teachers will be provided supplies for intermittent disinfectant cleaning throughout the school day
  • Hand sanitizer with a minimum 70% ethyl alcohol content has been provided to each classroom and is available in dispensers outside of buildings and in hallways

  Situation Monitoring. WCHS is daily in contact with and following all directions and recommendations made by global, national, state, county and local health departments. We are also collaborating with local school districts for school specific plans and information.

  • World Health Organization
  • Center for Disease and Control
  • California State Health Department
  • San Bernardino County Department of Public Health
  • Upland Unified School District

  Readiness for Modification. As we work with these governing bodies, plans are in place to modify daily school operations as directed. The following are modifications WCHS is preparing to enact when needed:

  • Limiting large gatherings
  • Canceling school trips
  • Limiting off-campus visitation
  • Campus closure with continued education through remote learning facilitated by WCHS teachers (see Mr. Attwood’s previous email for further detail)

  General Guidelines

  • Students and staff are required to remain at home if they are sick
  • Students’ temperatures should be measured at home regularly
  • Any person with a fever is required to stay at home for a minimum of 24 hours after the fever breaks
  • Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue. If you do not have a tissue, cough and sneeze into the inside of your elbow, not your hands
  • Wash hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol
  • Students found to be sick on campus will be isolated and required to return home.

  I promise that WCHS will demonstrate wisdom and caution as we manage this unprecedented situation. Our goal is to provide information to you as we learn it and to infuse peace into our school community through our communication.  If there is ever a need for urgent communication, please expect to receive information through our text messaging system. 

   

  In this time, as believers, we are reminded of the peace found in the salvation of Jesus Christ. While we may be shaken by the nightly news, our God is unshakeable. “For God did not give us a spirit of fear but of power and love and self-control.” - 2 Timothy 1:7. Please continue to lift up WCHS in prayer. We will get through this together, as a family, and forever be stronger because of it.

   

  Please don’t hesitate to contact me with your comments, questions or concerns.

   

  I love you, WCHS. God bless you!

   

   

  Brandon Doolittle

  Principal

  Western Christian High School

• 3/11 COVID-19 Teacher Training & Calendar Change

  Dear WCS Parents,

   

  I am writing to inform you of proactive steps we are taking to train our teachers and staff in the event of a closure of our Western Christian campuses due to COVID-19 and share a slight change to the school calendar. It should be noted that this is a dynamic situation. Our sources of information, the Center for Disease Control and California Department of Public Health, provide updated information that changes frequently. We are constantly monitoring developments and will make changes as needed to our contingency plans rooted in direction given to schools from these sources. Our aim continues to be ensuring the safety of our students and employees while offering continued education to students. As stated in previous communication, we do not necessarily expect campus closures but we are preparing for them.

   

  This is a unique time. It is important that we as a school community walk through this together, encouraging and supporting one another. Our teachers and staff are calm, focused, flexible, and prepared to serve you and your children no matter the circumstance. You and your student are a part of an amazing school family!

   

  Calendar Change and Teacher Training in Remote Learning

  Teacher training in remote student learning, or teleschooling, will begin tomorrow on each campus during our standard professional development time. Remote learning allows the student to follow a teacher directed learning plan from home. However, in order to better train our teachers for potential campus closure, I have decided that we will not have school on Friday, March 20. This is not a campus closure, but rather a planned day of training.  Bus routes to/from both campuses will be canceled for this day. Childcare will not be provided on our Claremont Campus. Our Upland Campus Preschool will be open, while our Claremont Campus Preschool will be closed for a pre-scheduled professional development session.

   

  We will use that day to train our teachers on this method of education. Our teachers will be instructed in the further use of our learning management system, myWCS, to assign learning tasks, provide links to other online resources, administer quizzes and tests, and gather feedback from students. In addition, they will be trained on the use of screen casting and teleconferencing software to facilitate instruction.

   

  Implementation of Training in the Classroom

  Following this training and in the remaining weeks prior to Easter break, our teachers will begin implementing their training with students in the classroom to increase teacher-student preparedness in the event of campus closure. We will be waling students through learning tasks that employ the variety of types of online resources needed. This implementation for students will, of course, take into account their developmental level. More will be shared with parents of younger students who will need direction and support at home from parents. As long as we are able, we want to facilitate preparedness in all of our students for these contingencies. We are assessing the viability of other alternatives to an automatic campus closure to students – e.g. minimum days, an extension of Easter Break, etc. We will, again, let you know as soon as possible if those changes are to be implemented.

   

  Students with Existing Medical Conditions or Compromised Immune Systems

  If your student has an existing medical conditions or a compromised immune system and this gives you concern about their school attendance at this time, please contact an administrator on your campus. We want to implement a learning plan that will flex to the needs of your child while allowing them to be at home.

   

  Again, please keep in mind that this is a dynamic situation. You can be assured that we will make decisions in the best interest of our students and employees. We will continue to communicate with you as information leads us.

   

  Know this:

  The Lord loves you. He loves Western Christian. He loves our teachers. He is watching over us and leading us. He is our dwelling place (Psalm 90:1), and our hope is in Him.

   

  God bless you and your family!

   

  Sincerely,

   

  John Attwood

  Superintendent

  Western Christian Schools

  www.westernchristian.org

• 3/11 TK-8 COVID-19 Preventative Measures

  Dear Parents,

   

  These are interesting times. Who would have thought our days would be consumed with monitoring a public health crisis? I want you to know, we are doing just that at WCS. Our team is in constant communication, discussing, planning and executing efforts to protect our school community against COVID-19.

   

  I would like to take a moment to share with you the things in place on campus as we work toward preventive measures. The areas we are focusing on are disinfecting/sanitizing surfaces, hand washing and staying away.

   

   

  Disinfecting/Sanitizing

   

  We are increasing our sanitizing schedule for Covid-19 prevention with regular scheduled cleaning of surfaces in the classroom, cafeteria, offices, restrooms, common areas, etc. Specifically for classrooms, teachers will wipe down desks, chair tops, door knobs, etc. while students are at morning recess, lunch recess and after school.

  All staff have been informed and asked to adhere to the CDC’s best practices for disinfecting surfaces, which includes the following.

   

  1. Know the difference between cleaning, disinfecting, and sanitizing

   

  Cleaning removes germs, dirt, and impurities from surfaces or objects. Cleaning works by using soap (or detergent) and water to physically remove germs from surfaces. This process does not necessarily kill germs, but by removing them, it lowers their numbers and the risk of spreading infection.

   

  Disinfecting kills germs on surfaces or objects. Disinfecting works by using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces or objects. This process does not necessarily clean dirty surfaces or remove germs, but by killing germs on a surface after cleaning, it can further lower the risk of spreading infection.

   

  Sanitizing lowers the number of germs on surfaces or objects to a safe level, as judged by public health standards or requirements. This process works by either cleaning or disinfecting surfaces or objects to lower the risk of spreading infection.

   

  2. Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that are touched often

   

  Follow your school’s standard procedures for routine cleaning and disinfecting. Typically, this means daily sanitizing surfaces and objects that are touched often, such as desks, countertops, doorknobs, computer keyboards, hands-on learning items, faucet handles, phones, and toys. Some schools may also require daily disinfecting these items. Standard procedures often call for disinfecting specific areas of the school, like bathrooms.

  Immediately clean surfaces and objects that are visibly soiled. If surfaces or objects are soiled with body fluids or blood, use gloves and other standard precautions to avoid coming into contact with the fluid. Remove the spill, and then clean and disinfect the surface.

   

  3. Simply do routine cleaning and disinfecting

   

  It is important to match your cleaning and disinfecting activities to the types of germs you want to remove or kill. Most studies have shown that the flu virus can live and potentially infect a person for up to 48 hours after being deposited on a surface. However, it is not necessary to close schools to clean or disinfect every surface in the building to slow the spread of flu. Also, if students and staff are dismissed because the school cannot function normally (e.g., high absenteeism during a flu outbreak), it is not necessary to do extra cleaning and disinfecting.

  Flu viruses are relatively fragile, so standard cleaning and disinfecting practices are sufficient to remove or kill them. Special cleaning and disinfecting processes, including wiping down walls and ceilings, frequently using room air deodorizers, and fumigating, are not necessary or recommended. These processes can irritate eyes, noses, throats, and skin; aggravate asthma; and cause other serious side effects.

   

  4. Clean and disinfect correctly

   

  Always follow label directions on cleaning products and disinfectants. Wash surfaces with a general household cleaner to remove germs. Rinse with water, and follow with an EPA-registered disinfectant to kill germs. Read the label to make sure it states that EPA has approved the product for effectiveness against influenza A virus.

  If a surface is not visibly dirty, you can clean it with an EPA-registered product that both cleans (removes germs) and disinfects (kills germs) instead. Be sure to read the label directions carefully, as there may be a separate procedure for using the product as a cleaner or as a disinfectant. Disinfection usually requires the product to remain on the surface for a certain period of time (e.g., letting it stand for 3 to 5 minutes).

  Use disinfecting wipes on electronic items that are touched often, such as phones and computers. Pay close attention to the directions for using disinfecting wipes. It may be necessary to use more than one wipe to keep the surface wet for the stated length of contact time. Make sure that the electronics can withstand the use of liquids for cleaning and disinfecting.

   

  5. Use products safely

   

  Pay close attention to hazard warnings and directions on product labels. Cleaning products and disinfectants often call for the use of gloves or eye protection. For example, gloves should always be worn to protect your hands when working with bleach solutions.

  Do not mix cleaners and disinfectants unless the labels indicate it is safe to do so. Combining certain products (such as chlorine bleach and ammonia cleaners) can result in serious injury or death.

   

  6. Handle waste properly

   

  Follow your school’s standard procedures for handling waste, which may include wearing gloves. Place no-touch waste baskets where they are easy to use. Throw disposable items used to clean surfaces and items in the trash immediately after use. Avoid touching used tissues and other waste when emptying waste baskets. Wash your hands with soap and water after emptying waste baskets and touching used tissues and similar waste.

   

  Handwashing

   

  The following handwashing schedule has been established for each day.

   

  We understand this will cut into instructional time, and that’s ok during this time of higher risk.

   

  Each teacher has been instructed to demonstrate the correct hand washing protocol with their class as we launch this regular practice. Every restroom and sink area will have a posting of correct handwashing procedures.

   

  We will follow this handwashing routine as a minimum requirement per day:

  • First thing in the morning all students will wash their hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer.
  • Before leaving the class for break/recess
  • Upon returning from break/recess
  • Before leaving for lunch recess
  • Upon returning from lunch recess

  Wash Your Hands Often to Stay Healthy from the CDC:

  You can help yourself and your loved ones stay healthy by washing your hands often, especially during these key times when you are likely to get and spread germs:

  • Before, during, and after preparing food
  • Before eating food
  • Before and after caring for someone at home who is sick with vomiting or diarrhea
  • Before and after treating a cut or wound
  • After using the toilet
  • After blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing
  • After touching an animal, animal feed, or animal waste
  • After handling pet food or pet treats
  • After touching garbage

  Follow Five Steps to Wash Your Hands the Right Way

  Washing your hands is easy, and it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Clean hands can stop germs from spreading from one person to another and throughout an entire community—from your home and workplace to childcare facilities and hospitals.

  Follow these five steps every time.

  1. Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap, and apply soap.
  2. Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails.
  3. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
  4. Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
  5. Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.

   

  Stay Away

   

  We have instructed all staff to stay home when they are sick, and we need students to do the same. We will work with you during this high-risk season by sending home schoolwork and communicating via email. Please contact your child’s teacher(s) directly for questions on schoolwork.

  Please contact the school office if your child is absent and/or if your child has come in contact with anyone exposed to COVID-19.

  WCS will take the following measures per CDC recommendations to separate ill community members:

  • Any student, teacher, and staff who present with fever and/or respiratory infection symptoms will be sent home immediately.
  • They will be separated and wait in the sick room until they are picked up.
  • We are removing all sick students from the office area and they will be required to sit in the sick room until they are picked up, per CDC recommendation. The restroom in the sick room will not be available to staff or visitors. Staff will be rerouted to use the upstairs restroom or Sider Hall. The CDC has recommended a sick room where people are not passing in and out of on a regular basis.
  • Stay home when sick. Remain at home until fever has been gone for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medicines.

   

  To this end, we want to help students stay home, and work with you to stay on top of their work. Putting work packets together to be picked up from the office, and communicating over email works very well.

   

  This morning our leadership team reflected on Psalms 91. What a comfort that chapter brings as it reminds us that our Almighty God is our refuge and our covering. I am praying that in the midst of this chaos, with so many voices and bits of information slamming us, that we would know the peace that passes all understanding (Philippians 4:7), because we cling to a Savior who holds all things together (Colossians 1:17)— even when it looks like they’re falling apart.

   

  Shalom,

   

  Michelle Browning

  Principal

• 3/06 Weekly Update: Important Coronavirus Info

  March 6, 2020   Dear Western Christian Families,   Concern about COVID-19 (commonly known as the coronavirus) remains high, and speculation continues to abound about its potential global and local impact. This weekly update is provided to keep you informed about developments related to COVID -19 and Western Christian’s response. Some of the information shared here was in last week’s update, but we want to make sure that information is available to all families no matter when they see this communication.    As mentioned before, at Western Christian, we always seek to protect our students and families, and we want to be methodical and wise in our responses to concerns of this nature. We will take every step to safeguard our students, parents, and employees. We also do not want to be ruled by fear or speculation. That has a significant cost of its own.   The Facts and Our Sources of Information– Updated March 5, 2020 The WCS administration is regularly consulting the Centers for Disease Control, California Department of Health, San Bernardino County Department of Public Health, and Los Angeles County Department of Public Health for updates. We have also continued to consult with local public and private schools in our area for perspective and advice. It is important to remember that this is a fluid situation. Therefore, stating anything with absolute certainty about any future potential impact on Western Christian would be unwarranted and even inappropriate.   Per the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) website, “As of March 5, 2020, as of 10 a.m. Pacific Time, there are a total of 60 positive cases and one death in California: 24 cases are from repatriation flights. The other 36  confirmed cases include 18 that are travel related, seven due to person-to-person exposure from family contact, three due to person-to-person exposure in a health care facility, four community acquired and four from unknown sources.”   Per the San Bernardino County Public Health website, “The health risk from COVID-19 to the general public in San Bernardino County remains low at this time. No cases have been reported in the county.”   What You Can Do According to CDPH, the health risk to the general public in California remains low, but schools and families can take common-sense precautions to prevent the spread of all infectious diseases. CDPH recommends the following steps to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses by: • Washing hands with soap and water. • Avoiding touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands. • Avoiding close contact with people who are sick. • Staying away from work, school or other people if you become sick with respiratory symptoms like fever and cough.   Please discuss this with your children and encourage them to follow these guidelines while at school.   WCS’ Current Plan As mentioned in previous communication, daily operations at Western Christian will continue as usual on both of our campuses. The current information we have acquired from health services and professionals leads us to conclude that no change in daily operation is necessary at this juncture.   Public Events We will continue to follow the direction of CDPH. With regard to public events, the CDPH website states, “The California Department of Public Health is not recommending the cancellation of public events. The health risk from COVID-19 to the general public remains low at this time… California state and local health officials are actively working to help protect the health of Californians. California has a limited number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 and we don't have indication of it spreading widely in our communities at this time.”   Potential Campus Closures? We want you to be aware that we are planning internally for the contingency of school campus closures. Please know that we do not necessarily expect this to occur. There is no information we have received up to this point that would lead us to that conclusion. However, we want to be prepared to continue to deliver education should students and teachers be required to stay home. Per the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, “A call for large scale closure of many schools would happen only if there was significant community transmission that could not be well-controlled through other strategies.”   Therefore, we are doing our due diligence by assessing how we (our teachers and administrators) can leverage our online resources to deliver an education to students at home. The resources include the unique educational features of myWCS (our very own online Learning Management System capable of delivering content to all students), current free meeting software like Zoom, and other available grade-appropriate internet resources. We believe that the online resources will allow for us to bridge absence from campus. We are grateful for those resources as they will allow for some form of education and connection to continue in an emergency. We will be prompt in our communication with you should that possibility become a reality. In the meantime, take comfort in knowing that we are thinking ahead and planning for this contingency.   School Sponsored Trips within the United States Based upon our findings and the most recent information at the time of this communication, risk of exposure due to travel within the United States remains low and does not appear to be a concern at this point. At this time, we have no changes to report with regard to our trips to New York (High School Choir),Tour of California Senior Trip, Washington D.C. (8th Grade), Catalina (7th grade), Camp Pali (6th Grade), San Diego (5th grade), or Sacramento (4th grade). We are doing all we can to plan for these trips, but also want to do our best to ensure student, parent, and employee safety. Please consult the leaders of each trip with regard to refund policies, as with many of these trips, refunds are not optional. Again, this situation is fluid, so it is possible that our position on these trips could change.   International School Sponsored Trips International travel is of greater concern. We have chosen to cancel our high school missions trip to Uganda. For a variety of reasons involving risk to students and employees, concerns about re-entry into the United States, and increasing financial limitations, we have decided to cancel this trip. Pray that those students and families would be encouraged, as many of them were committed no matter the risk or cost. They are amazing people.   International Travel Implications for Current Students Because the risk of exposure to COVID-19 is increasing over time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a guidance indicating that travelers from mainland China and Iran will be denied entry into the United States. Travelers going to or coming from Italy, South Korea, Japan, and Hong Kong have been given health notices of varying risk levels by the CDC. Students arriving in the United States from any of these locations, will be excluded from school for 14 days, beginning the day arrive in the United States.   Parents and guardians of any Western Christian student impacted by this travel guidance should contact the school office for assistance in arranging for independent study work to minimize the impact of any required absences on academic progress. Upon arrival back at school after the 14 day wait period, students are required to provide a doctor’s written verification of health.  Individuals who have recently traveled to any of the listed countries and who become ill with fever, cough or shortness of breath should contact their health provider or local health department.   Parents and guardians of students are asked to continue to follow our Western Christian Parent Student Handbook’s policies on student illness in determining when a child should be kept home from school for illness, fever, vomiting/diarrhea, or other contagious conditions. Please contact the school office should you have further questions. Again, please do not send your child to school if they are sick.   Ensuring Kindness and Care for Our Students Please also consider that many WCS students who are from other countries. They are a part of our school family and we want to ensure that they are treated well during this time of uncertainty and worry for their families and friends in their home country. I continue to be pleased and proud that our students continue to respect and encourage one another. Every single student at our school is a part of the WCS family and worthy of love and acceptance. That is the Western Christian way.   Again, WCS will continue to work closely with our local Department of Public Health, as well as state and national agencies, and provide updated information to parents and guardians as it becomes available. Additional information regarding the novel coronavirus is available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and California Department of Public Health websites.   Be in Prayer Please be in prayer for those suffering from this terrible virus around the world, for the safety of our nation, and for the safety of the students, parents, and employees of Western Christian Schools. Do not be afraid. Be encouraged and remember that we believe in a God who is good, who loves us, and who is in control of all things.   God bless you, God bless your family, and God bless Western Christian!     John Attwood Superintendent Western Christian Schools www.westernchristian.org

• 2/28 Important information regarding the Coronavirus

  Dear Western Christian Families,

   

  As you are likely aware, concern about COVID-19 (commonly known as the coronavirus) is high, and speculation abounds about its potential global and local impact. At Western Christian, we always seek to protect our students and families, and we want to be methodical and wise in our responses to concerns of this nature. We will take every step to safeguard our students, parents, and employees. We also do not want to be ruled by fear or speculation. That has a significant cost of its own.

   

  That being said, I want you to be aware of our school’s response at this point in time to this mounting concern.

   

  The Facts and Our Sources of Information
  The WCS administration is regularly consulting the Centers for Disease Control and California Department of Health for updates. We have also consulted with local public schools and public health officials for perspective and advice. This afternoon I had a discussion with an amazing California doctor and friend of Western Christian who is on the frontlines of treating the coronavirus. This gentleman provided me with valuable information about how we can operate in a safe, informed and calm manner as things progress both nationally and globally and he has contributed to the content of this letter. Our aim is to be as informed as possible. It is important to remember that this is a fluid situation. Therefore, stating anything with absolute certainty about any future potential impact on Western Christian would be unwarranted and even inappropriate.

   

  Per the California Department of Health (CDPH) website as of February 27, 2020, “there are a total of 33 positive cases in California: 24 are from repatriation flights. The other nine confirmed cases include seven that are travel related, one due to person-to-person exposure from a very close contact (a spouse) and one from an unknown source as mentioned in the February 26, 2020, news release. These numbers align with the CDC. Approximately 200 persons have been tested to date.”

   

  WCS’ Current Plan
  At this point in time, daily activity at Western Christian will operate as usual on both of our campuses. All of the information we have acquired from health services and professionals leads us to conclude that no change in operation is necessary at this juncture. We do, however, plan to communicate more regularly with you via weekly updates on this topic simply to keep you informed of what we know and how we are responding.

   

  Some parents have inquired about our various trips coming up in April. Based upon our findings and the most recent information at the time of this communication, travel within the United States does not appear to be a concern. However, international travel is of greater concern. We are currently assessing whether our high school missions trip to Uganda should continue as planned. We do not want to take significant risk of harm to our students or employees. Again, this perspective on school operations and travel could shift if official public health opinions change in the United States or in our area. We are internally discussing contingency plans for our students and staff should our community be impacted in a more direct manner. We will, of course communicate these plans with you as circumstances dictate. Look for a weekly update.

   

  What You Can Do
  According to CDPH, the health risk to the general public in California remains low, but schools and families can take common-sense precautions to prevent the spread of all infectious diseases. CDPH recommends the following steps to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses by:
  • Washing hands with soap and water.
  • Avoiding touching eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands.
  • Avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
  • Staying away from work, school or other people if you become sick with respiratory symptoms like fever and cough.

   

  International Travel Implications for Current Students
  Because the risk of exposure to COVID-19 is increasing over time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued a guidance indicating that travelers from mainland China, Iran, Italy, and South Korea arriving in the United States, should be excluded from school for 14 days, beginning the day after they left any of those countries. Parents and guardians of any Western Christian student impacted by this travel guidance should contact the school office for assistance in arranging for independent study work to minimize the impact of academic progress due to any required absences. Upon arrival back at school after the 14 day wait period, students are required to provide a doctor’s written verification of health. Individuals who have recently traveled to any of the listed countries and who become ill with fever, cough or shortness of breath should contact their health provider or local health department. Parents and guardians of students are asked to continue to follow our Western Christian Parent Student Handbook’s policies on student illness in determining when a child should be kept home from school for illness, fever, vomiting/diarrhea, or other contagious conditions. Please contact the school office should you have further questions.

   

  Ensuring Kindness and Care for Our Students
  Please also consider that many WCS students are from other countries, particularly in Asia. They are a part of our school family and we want to ensure that they are treated well during this time of uncertainty and worry for their families and friends in their home country. I am pleased and proud to share that we have not heard of any negative behavior directed at students from those countries in connection to COVID-19. Praise the Lord! Our school should be different in this way. We want to love and encourage all of our students and treat them in the way Jesus would. As this situation progresses, I would encourage you to speak with your child about this and reinforce to them that all of our students should be treated with encouragement, kindness and compassion regardless of race, ethnicity, or country of origin. Every single student is a part of our WCS family and worthy of love and acceptance. That is the Western Christian way.

   

  Again, WCS will continue to work closely with our local Department of Public Health, as well as state and national agencies, and provide updated information to parents and guardians as it becomes available. Additional information regarding the novel coronavirus is available on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and California Department of Public Health websites. Please be in prayer for those suffering from this terrible virus around the world, for the safety of our nation, and for the safety of Western Christian. Be encouraged and remember that we believe in a God who is good, who loves us, and who is in control of all things.

   

  God bless you, God bless your family, and God bless Western Christian!

  John Attwood
  Superintendent 
  Western Christian Schools
  www.westernchristian.org