Faith Christian School February Newsletter

“With a grateful heart”

ANIMO GRATO Partnering to cultivate students with A Mind for Truth ~ A Heart for Christ ~ A Will to Serve Milestones...

It has been a great joy to watch this model of Christian classical education take root and thrive in Roanoke—and a true privilege to serve as Head of School at Faith Christian

School for nearly half of its thirty years. Over and over again, God has proven His faithfulness to this community, and I am deeply grateful to have witnessed and played a small part in His work here. As I look ahead, I do so with

confidence and hope, trusting that Faith Christian School’s impact will continue for generations to come. Lately, I find I am thinking a lot about milestones and how they invite reflection, and schools are particularly fertile ground for them. Consider the first day of school: the transition from lower school to middle school, then to upper school and graduation; recitation chapels; the kindergarten Christmas play; and senior thesis presentations, to name only a few. Special celebrations and traditions mark these moments, formally acknowledging the passage of time and inviting us to pause and reflect. Our Inceptio and Valedictio chapels are other such examples of traditions, thoughtfully designed to encourage reflection. The youngest faculty member has a designated role, as does the most senior. During the year-end Valedictio chapel, the senior banner is moved from the stage to join a ring of banners

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Milestones (continued from cover)

from previous graduating classes. A bell is rung once for each graduating senior as they recess from the stage. These symbols and movements are intentionally included to foster an appreciation for the passage of time and the importance of marking it rather than letting it pass unnoticed. I have had the great privilege of witnessing these milestones year after year as part of a marvelous community. I have welcomed the opportunity they provide to reflect on significant moments, growth, and transformation. Schools are rich with these reminders, continually pointing us to what has come before and what lies ahead, and to appreciate and value them. Another gift of these milestones is the profound sense of gratitude that comes from belonging to a community with moments worth marking. Most humbling of all is the recognition that the greatest milestone in the history of Faith Christian School is its founding—a courageous response by a small group of families who could not ignore God’s calling to bring Christian classical education to Roanoke, Virginia. As we turn the corner into the second semester of Faith’s 29th year, we find ourselves in a season of both gratitude and transition. For nearly three decades, students have graduated with the mission echoing in their ears: a mind for truth, a heart for Christ, and a will to serve. As I prepare to conclude my own season of service as Head of School, I do so with a profoundly thankful heart, confident that the same God who has faithfully guided Faith Christian School thus far will continue to lead it in the years ahead. I am grateful to pass this work into capable hands, trusting that the Lord will continue to guide Faith Christian School through its next season of leadership and growth.

“I have had the great privilege of witnessing these milestones year after year as part of a marvelous community.”

~ Peter G. Baur

“that rock still stands,

now a symbol of class pride”

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Forward in Faith: Honoring the Founding Visionaries

For generations, Faith Christian School has been shaped by prayer, vision, and faithful stewardship. What began as a bold step of faith—to establish a permanent home for a growing school—unfolded through seasons of generosity, perseverance, and trust in God’s provision. The original Forward in Faith capital building campaign made it possible to construct the building that now serves as the heart of our campus—a place where students are formed academically, spiritually, and relationally each day. Classrooms, athletics, gathering spaces, and shared traditions all trace their roots back to the faith and foresight of those who believed in the future of Faith Christian School. This vision was brought to life through the leadership and service of many. We are deeply grateful for former Head of School Sam Cox, whose 14 years of leadership helped shepherd the school through this pivotal season, and for Jay Whitmore, who led the building campaign that made our permanent home possible. Their commitment, along with the generosity of countless families and friends, laid a foundation that continues to bless our community today. Forward in Faith was more than a building project— it was an act of trust, obedience, and shared vision. The fruit of that faith surrounds us every day.

“Forward in Faith was an expression of trust—trust in God’s provision and in a community willing to step forward together for the sake of future generations.”

Sam Cox Former Head of School

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Finish in Faith: Completing the Vision

In the years following the completion of our campus, the Finish in Faith campaign emerged as a call to continue the work begun through Forward in Faith— specifically, to reduce and ultimately retire the remaining debt on our facility. Through the faithful giving of families, alumni, grandparents, faculty, staff, and friends, steady progress was made. When this effort was intentionally re-engaged last year, the remaining loan balance stood at $700,000. In addition to gifts made at the relaunch and to help accelerate this final stretch, a group of families and friends recently formed the Finish in Faith Leadership Circle. Through their generosity and shared commitment, the loan balance has been significantly reduced to $220,000. Their leadership reflects a collective belief that now is the time to finish what generations before us faithfully began. As Faith Christian School prepares for a Head of School transition, completing this campaign carries renewed significance. Retiring the remaining debt allows us to position the next Head of School for success—free from financial constraint and able to lead with clarity, stability, and vision for the future.

“There is no greater gift we could give the school than freedom from debt—allowing resources to flow directly to faculty, scholarships, and the mission that sustains us.”

Peter G. Baur

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The Leadership Circle CHALLENGE

We are deeply grateful to the faithful partners who have stepped forward to support the Finish in Faith campaign during its relaunch. Early leadership gifts, along with commitments made this year through the newly established Leadership Circle, have already helped reduce the remaining loan balance to $220,000. Guided by Peter Baur’s vision for a strong and faithful transition, $150,000 of these leadership commitments now form a Leadership Circle Challenge, inviting the wider Faith Christian School community to participate in completing this important work together. As we honor Peter’s years of faithful service, this effort reflects our shared desire to finish well and to care thoughtfully for the future of Faith Christian School. Whether through a generous commitment or a gift of any size, every contribution moves this work forward. You may give securely online through the Finish in Faith website or return your gift using the enclosed envelope. Every gift and pledge helps ensure a Christ-centered, classical education for today’s students and generations to come.

Give online at: fcsva.com/finish-in-faith

The Leadership Circle

The Baur Family Garry and Nancy Bayliss Kimberly Blankenship Aaron and Amanda Copeland Sam and Erin Cox Eugene and Katy Eng Dr. and Mrs. Howard Hansberry Ab and Connie Jones

Brett and Casey Jones Steven and Tess Jones

Jim and Tami Lowe Jason and Erin Myers Paul and Amy Nester Buzz and Donna Powell The Robert Todd Carter Foundation Dean and Susan Wadsworth

Thank you!

The Final Stretch

Finish Line Debt-Free!

Finish in Faith Reignited!

We invite every member of our community to prayerfully consider how you might participate in this final chapter.

Together, we can Finish in Faith.

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A Faithful Presence ~ Honoring Peter Baur

Those who shared memories for this tribute spoke often of moments—intentional moments—that together tell a larger story. A pause for silence before a meeting begins. A chapel that marks transition. Ceremonies that invite students to reflect, to speak, to listen, and to take responsibility for the work set before them. These practices are never about tradition for tradition’s sake. They are about forming attention, gratitude, and purpose. Peter frequently returns to an image he shares with students, faculty, staff, and families: a photograph of a single home left standing after a hurricane has passed. Around it, everything else lies in ruins. The house endures not because the storm is weak, but because its foundation is strong. For Peter, this image captures the heart of a Christian classical education—preparing students not for calm conditions, but for storms they have yet to face, grounding them in truth, trust in God, and a steady response marked by wisdom and grace. At Faith Christian School, the work of formation is always about building that kind of foundation. A foundation rooted in truth. Anchored in goodness. Oriented toward beauty. One that enables students to stand firm, faithful, and resilient in a changing world. “I will always hold you as a spiritual mentor that shaped me in my journey.” Jay Whitmore Former Director of Development, Alumni Parent

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For the past twelve years, Faith Christian School has been shaped not only by leadership and vision, but by a steady, faithful presence, one grounded in a deep conviction that education is ultimately about formation: the pursuit of what is good, true, and beautiful. Peter Baur often reminds our community that these are not abstract ideals. They are lived, practiced, and formed over time through habits, relationships, and shared experiences. Under his leadership, Faith Christian School is a place where students are invited not only to learn, but to be shaped: intellectually, spiritually, and morally.

“Faith Christian School is a more grace-filled community with a better understanding of what is good, true and beautiful thanks to Peter’s leadership.”

Kathy Martin Administration, Alumni Parent

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“Mr. Baur played an important and vital role in my experience at FCS, and it is difficult to imagine FCS without him. Mr. Baur, you will be deeply missed.” Adam Beecher, Class of 2024

He also established the Performing Arts Series, bringing professional musicians and performers to campus and affirming the place of artistic excellence as an essential part of school life. This same vision is reflected in Peter’s personal investment in the campus itself. Through landscaping, flowers, trees, and the cultivation of artistic spaces, he seeks to steward Faith Christian School’s remarkable grounds as a visible expression of care, order, and God’s created beauty. The campus becomes not only a place of learning, but a daily reminder that beauty matters—and that it transforms us.

Under Peter’s leadership, traditions took root and helped establish the rhythm and identity of school life. From meaningful commencement practices to moments of shared reflection in chapel, from student-centered ceremonies to faculty gatherings that foster trust and unity, these rhythms shape a community attentive to both excellence and care.

“Peter’s influence on me as a teacher, a man, and a friend is a significant hallmark in my life.” Scott Maynard Former Art Teacher

Peter also believes that formation extends beyond programs and schedules to the environment students inhabit each day. He holds a deep conviction that the arts and beauty play a unique role in shaping hearts and affections, helping students see the world—and God’s creation—in its most inspiring dimension. Under his leadership, the arts are embraced as a core component of Christian classical education.

Perhaps most consistently, those reflecting on Peter’s leadership speak of relationships. Students feel known. Faculty feel trusted and supported. Parents feel heard. His leadership makes room for people to bring their whole selves to the work of education—academic, spiritual, and personal—within a community grounded in shared purpose. This tribute is surrounded by photos, memories, and reflections because Peter’s impact cannot be captured by one voice alone. It lives in the shared experiences of students who cross the stage, faculty who gather in reflection, families who watch their children grow, and colleagues who work alongside him with mutual respect and faith. As Faith Christian School prepares for its next chapter, we pause to give thanks—for leadership marked by faithfulness, for traditions that continue to shape future generations, and for a vision rooted in the good, the true, and the beautiful.

Peter, thank you for the ways you lead, listen, and serve. Your legacy has been written in the foundations laid— in hearts, minds, and lives shaped for Christ at Faith Christian School.

To view or make a tribute visit A Tribute to Peter Baur www.fcsva.com/tribute

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Project Faith 2026: Serving Together Celebrating 25 Years of Putting Faith into Action

For 24 years, Project Faith has been a defining expression of our community—students, faculty, families, alumni, and friends putting faith into action through meaningful service. As we prepare for Project Faith 2026, we pause to give thanks to the businesses and organizations whose sponsorships made last year’s projects possible. Their generosity allowed hundreds of students and volunteers to serve together in tangible ways. Project Faith 2026 will take place on Friday, April 24, with students serving Apple Ridge Farm, a local organization whose mission aligns beautifully with the heart of Project Faith. Additional service details will be shared in the coming weeks. To help our community stay informed, we are also launching a new Project Faith website, which will serve as a central hub for key dates, updates, sponsorship information, and ways to get involved. Beyond a single day of service, Project Faith also supports the Faith Fund, strengthening the daily life and mission of Faith Christian School throughout the year. As we mark this 25th anniversary, we invite our community to join us—through prayer, participation, and support

CORPORATE SPONSORS

We extend a heartfelt thanks to all the sponsors who helped make Project Faith 2025 possible

as we prepare to serve together once again. Visit www.fcsva.com/project-faith-2026

2026 Service Partner!

Anderson Music Therapy | Atlantic Union Bank Bank of the James |First Citizens Bank | Freedom First

Interstate Battery of Roanoke Valley | Meade Tractor |Modern Day Roofing Mountain State Oral & Facial Surgery | Prestige Acres Landscaping, Inc. Roanoke Gas Co.| Rubicon Planning, LLC | Urology Associates | VFP, Inc.

Corporate Sponsorship Opportunities! Visit www.fcsva.com/project-faith-2026 to download your sponsorship packet today! Sponsorship Questions? Contact Amy Milberger at amilberger@fcsva.com Your support helps equip students to serve our community with purpose and faith!

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Faithful Giving Each year, the Faith Fund supports the mission and daily work of Faith Christian School, sustaining the programs, faculty, and staff that shape our students each day. With an annual goal of $425,000, the Faith Fund is made possible through the faithful generosity of individuals, families, foundations and businesses including gifts in response to our fall appeal, participation in the annual auction, and the collective efforts of our community through Project Faith.

Lasting Impact

As of this month, we are 45% of the way to our annual goal! We are deeply grateful to those of you who gave through the auction, to all who responded so generously to our annual campaign letter, and to those who continue to support this work in meaningful ways. Your faithfulness reflects a shared commitment to the mission of Faith Christian School and

provides strong momentum as we look ahead to Project Faith, now underway, which will further advance the work supported by the Faith Fund. Thank you for your support of the Faith Fund!

22nd Annual

Grandparents Day!

Hundreds of grandparents and grand-friends gathered at Faith Christian School for our 22nd Annual Grandparents Day, enjoying a special morning celebrating students, learning, and community. Guests were treated to student performances spanning JK through 12th grade, including songs, poems, and Scripture recitations that beautifully reflected both academic growth and joyful expression. Following the performances, grandparents had the opportunity to visit classrooms, see student work, meet teachers, and spend meaningful time with their grandchildren. Each guest also received a small token of appreciation as a thank-you for the encouragement, prayers, and support they provide to our students and school community. We are deeply grateful to all of the grandparents and grand-friends who joined us and helped make the day so special. We also extend sincere thanks to our parent volunteers and Student Ambassadors, whose hospitality and assistance ensured a warm welcome and smooth celebration for everyone.

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At Faith, we believe the Arts have a role in training our students’ affections to love things worthy of loving. The Arts play an important role in helping children to appreciate those things that are good, true, and beautiful. Whether children are gazing at a painting, listening to a musical piece, or watching a stage performance, the Arts reflect aspects of God’s nature and character in profound ways. Cultivating creativity through music, theatre, and the visual arts The Arts at Faith

Medieval Monologues The 8th grade theatre class has spent much of their fall semester working on a series of Medieval monologues. For their final project of the semester, they performed the monologues from “Good Masters! Sweet Ladies!” by Laura Amy Schlitz. They transformed the great room into a Medieval Village and moved about in various scenes as each student performed their monologue for their families as well as the 4th grade students, who are also studying this time period. Students will continue to expand on other basic theatre techniques throughout their theatre classes at FCS through their senior year. FCS is dedicated to a robust fine arts program, which also includes music and art in addition to theatre.

Veterans Day Program Thank you to the students who participated in the Veterans Day program on November 11. The Theatre Department performed a series of scenes depicting various moments across our armed forces history of our soldiers and their families. Cavatina, the Lower School Choir, performed several musical selections for the program. Veterans in attendance were also recognized during the playing of the Armed Forces Medley and Presentation of the Flags. Special thanks to Theatre Teacher, Mrs. Millirones and Music Teacher, Mrs. French, for their contribution to the program. And thank you again to all who served and are continuing to serve our nation.

During our November Performing Arts Chapel, we enjoyed musical selections from our Lower School Choir, Cavatina, Orff Ensemble, Junior and Senior piano students and our Middle and Upper School Warrior Worship Team.

A longstanding Christmas tradition in the Lower School is the annual performance of the play “This is the Stable” by Cynthia Cotton. Kindergarten students presented the true meaning of Christmas through this performance for their families, the Lower School students and teachers and their Senior Buddies.

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Alumni Community From the classroom to the court and into the community, Faith alumni continue to reflect the heart of a Warrior - staying connected, serving faithfully, and celebrating one another.

Celebrating milestones, mentorship, and meaningful connections

A Night to Honor Warriors On January 2, we commemorated the incredible career of Catherine Kagey, Class of 2020, with a special Jersey Retirement Ceremony to honor her amazing career. We also unveiled our new 1000 Point Club banner with new inductees added. In addition to Catherine, Ian Alligood, Class of 2019, Nick Witt, Class of 2020 and Kateleigh Wampler Wannenburg, Class of 2020 were honored and have been added to the banner. Thank you to all the families, past coaches, and teammates of these Warriors for joining us to celebrate!

Preparing Hearts and Minds for College

Each January, a panel of FCS Alumni visit with current Sophomores, Juniors and Seniors to share their college experiences. The Alumni panel gave students a valuable opportunity to hear directly from FCS grads about college life. The alumni spoke on how their education at Faith Christian School prepared them for college in a variety of different ways, including writing, public speaking and strong study skills. They repeatedly praised their teachers on preparing them well and counseled the students about time management, the importance of getting to know their professors, and finding a core group of Christian friends.

Faith Alumni Care Packages!

We sent well wishes to the Class of 2025 as they finished up their first semester of college! Earlier this fall, each member of the Class of 2025 received a care package from the Faith Christian School Alumni Association with some treats, some fun, and some swag!

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Warriors in Action

Competition, celebration, and community

Faith Christian School athletes wrapped up a strong fall season with impressive performances across multiple sports, reflecting dedication, teamwork, and Warrior spirit. The Warrior Cross Country team delivered an outstanding postseason. At the VACA State Championship, Sadie Ross earned her second consecutive Middle School Girls State Championship title, while both Middle School teams placed 2nd overall. The Boys Varsity team finished 3rd, led by medalists Seth Yoder and Owen Ellis, with Kinley McGee and Stella Guelich placing in the top 10 for the Girls Varsity race. Several teams and individuals advanced to the National Association of Christian Athletes Cross Country Championship title in Dayton, TN, where Sadie Ross claimed the Girls Middle School National Championship for the second year in a row, and Will Baggett and Owen Ellis each earned 9th-place finishes. This season also marked a milestone for the program, with over 30 runners—the largest team in school history. In Warrior Soccer, seniors Owen Matthews and Ryan Ridge were named to the VACA All-State Team, each earning Second Team All State honors to conclude their Warrior careers. Congratulations to both athletes on this well earned recognition. The Lady Warriors Volleyball team finished 3rd in the VACA South Region and was also recognized as Southwest District Champions. Individual honors were awarded to Lexie Beaumont (VACA South Region First Team; Southwest District First Team), Alexis Tice (VACA South Region Second Team; Southwest District First Team), Lillian Carmouche (Southwest District Second Team), and Savannah Green (Southwest District Second Team). We are grateful for the commitment of our student-athletes and coaches, whose dedication and teamwork made this a memorable season. Way to go, Warriors!

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Student Life

Learning, belonging and growing together

As part of Inceptio, a tradition that dedicates the year to the Lord, and marks new beginnings, seniors received a rose from their Junior Kindergarten buddies.

The annual SGA Luau kicked off the school year with swimming, greasy watermelon, and great fellowship at Spring Run Pool.

The class of 2026 carried on the tradition of painting the large rock in the upper circle of Faith Christian!

Third graders visited the Blue Ridge Institute, experiencing 1800s farm life through hands on stations aligned with their historical studies.

Ministerium members and volunteers served during Beautification Day, caring for campus together and proving many hands make light work.

Ministerium united students across divisions, creating fleece blankets for the Rescue Mission, cheerfully living out a will to serve.

Continuing tradition, the senior class enjoyed a special yearbook photo shoot.

An Enchanted Forest themed Vesperia, a cherished Upper School tradition, celebrated the Junior class.

The Junior Class Ring Ceremony marked a meaningful milestone as parents spoke blessing and purpose over their students.

Second graders enjoyed their annual Safari Park trip, interacting with animals while reinforcing their studies of mammals through hands-on learning.

Kindergartners and Senior Buddies enjoyed their cherished Layman Farms tradition, strengthening bonds through pumpkin picking, play, and shared memories.

The Middle and Upper School Fall Retreat fosters faith, deepens understanding of God’s purpose, and strengthens relationships among classmates.

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A Christian Classical Education in Practice At Faith Christian School, learning is shaped by a Christian classical approach that forms both the mind and the heart. Students are encouraged to ask good questions, think carefully, and see God’s order and beauty in all areas of study. From hands-on discovery in the early years to deep academic inquiry in the Upper School, each stage of learning builds clarity of thought, strong communication, and a lifelong love of learning. Cultivating wisdom, wonder, and disciplined thinking Early Learning & Lower School (Junior Kindergarten–5th Grade)

Junior Kindergarten: Learning Through “Works” Junior Kindergarten students rotate through hands-on “works.” Each day students choose their activities and the order in which they complete them, building independence and confidence. Works are grouped into practical life, academic, and just-for-fun activities and change monthly. Practical life works help children develop fine motor skills, focus, coordination and responsibility through activities such as pouring, tying, sweeping, using tools, and painting.

5th Grade: Science & Nature Studies In 5th Grade Science, students began studying Isaac Newton’s Three Laws of Motion—inertia, force, and action-reaction. Students learn how these laws describe the physical order of God’s creation and prepare for hands-on experiments, including a marble motion lab. In Nature Studies, students spend time outdoors observing the school campus and recording their observations in journals. This outdoor learning complements classroom instruction and encourages careful observation and appreciation of God’s world.

4th Grade: Viking Day Fourth graders celebrate their annual Viking Day, marking the culmination of their studies of Viking culture. Students dress in period attire and rotate through learning stations led by parent volunteers. The day concludes with a Viking-themed meal enjoyed together as a class.

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Middle and Upper School (9th - 12th Grade)

Middle School Literature Middle School students journey through The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis, beginning in fourth grade and continuing through seventh. Through reading and discussion, students explore themes such as courage, redemption, faith, and the nature of good and evil, making meaningful connections between literature and biblical truth.

8th Grade Science Mrs. DeMott’s 8th grade Physical Science students made elephant toothpaste - a fun way to demonstrate chemical reactions! Lab days are always a favorite day in physical science class! Thank you Mrs. DeMott for incorporating fun into learning!

Marine Science: Wallops Island Sophomore and junior students travel to Chincoteague Bay Field Station on Wallops Island for an advanced marine science experience, concluding with a visit to NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility Visitor Center. Students will continue building on this study in their biology and chemistry classes. Senior Thesis The Senior Thesis Program is the capstone of Faith’s Christian classical education. Beginning in junior year, students research and write a thesis on a debatable topic of interest. This process culminates in a formal presentation and defense before an audience. This January, seniors participated in Thesis Marathon Day, spending focused time writing and revising with faculty advisors available for guidance.

9th Grade Geometry Ninth grade geometry students go beyond memorizing formulas. Using compass and ruler, they learn to construct and prove geometric principles, developing logical thinking and imagination. Through geometry, students see order, beauty, and wisdom in God’s creation and

grow in disciplined reasoning. 11th Grade Chemistry

To better understand the uniqueness of elements, eleventh-grade chemistry students conduct flame tests, observing how different metals produce distinct flame colors when heated. The lab highlights both the order and beauty found in God’s creation.

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Board of Directors

Katy Eng Chair Greg Beecher Vice-Chair Jim Forney Secretary & Treasurer Stephen Hamilton Ellie Hammer Jason Hartman Jan Sessor Wesley Williams

OUR VISION A Mind for Truth. A Heart for Christ. A Will to Serve.

OUR MISSION The mission of Faith Christian School is to provide a Christ-centered classical education of academic excellence, spiritual depth, and moral integrity which will prepare students for godly participation in their society and promote loyalty to God and country.

Ways to Give Thank you for your support

Phone: 540-769-5200 ext. 138 Mail: Faith Christian School

3585 Buck Mountain Road Roanoke, VA 24018 Online: www.fcsva.com/ways-to-give

Scan this QR code to make a secure, online donation.

Society for Classical Learning

Newsletter Credits: Copy, Art Direction, Design, and Photography prepared in house by Faith Christian School staff and community unless otherwise noted.

Educational Records Bureau

Virginia Council on Private Education

Virginia Association of Christian Athletics

Printing and mailing provided in part by Wordsprint.