Wednesday, December 26, 2018

Photos For The Yearbook

Hi Parents! I was hoping you'd have photos that I can include in the yearbook that you've taken this year at school events. It can be from Chapel, Honor Roll, classroom, recess, Harvest Festival, Sunday BBQ, etc... please send them my way at megumi.nomura@gobethany.com Thank you so much!

Sunday, December 23, 2018

23 GENIUS CHRISTMAS TREE HACKS



Christmas decorations and ornaments are difficult to store because they are fragile and takes a lot of space. Check out the best ways to pack and organize Christmas ornaments and decorations!

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Christmas Eve Service at Bethany


Bethany Lutheran Church Invites you to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ!
Christmas Eve Candlelight Worship—7pm Experience the magic of candlelight and worship

Monday, December 17, 2018

10 DELICIOUS CHRISTMAS IDEAS



Christmas is coming! It's just around the corner. What is the most important thing about a good party? Presents? Decorations? Music? Well, I think that the most importnat thing about a good Christmas party is good food and a nice company. We can't help you with a company, but we definitely can help you with good food. Today, we collected the best Christmas recipes. Try to repeat all of them before Christmas!

Friday, December 14, 2018

NO PARKING & GETTING OUT ALLOWED in drop off and pick up line!

Parents: If you are using our Drop Off/Pick Up line you MUST NOT park and get out of your car. This is a moving line. Drop off or pick up your child then move on. If you need to speak with a teacher—DO NOT—get out of your car to do so. Make an appointment with them through email or park in the parking lot and get out of your car. Thank you for your cooperation.

What A Performance!


What a performance from all of our students at Bethany Lutheran School! The kids worked so hard and were so excited to perform well for all of their loved ones. Many special “little” moments that occurred throughout the performance not only made it fun for those children’s parents but for everyone else who was watching! There’s always some glitches along the way but the kids seem to power through.

Thank you to Dr. Nomura, Mrs. Bakken and Miss Donna for all of your hard work and to our staff for supporting all of their efforts with their own!

Thank you Church Council and Ministerial Advisory Team Members for helping with the cookies during intermission.

Each year we discuss how our evening went and try to implement changes that will make it even better and more streamlined for the next year. We will be doing that again this year as well. 

Thank you for always supporting Bethany!

Tuesday, December 11, 2018

11 Quick & Easy Christmas Cookie & Dessert Recipes



Panda can't imagine Christmas without cookies and desserts, they're essential for the holiday season! And with all these amazing recipes this Christmas might be the sweetest of them all. From classic gingerbread cookies to unseen desserts - everyone will feel inspired to make some festive treats this year!

Saturday, December 8, 2018

Minimum Days—Dec. 19 & 20 Christmas Break—Dec. 21—Jan. 6


Minimum Days—School Dismissal is at noon. Extended Care will be available on both days. Christmas break begins Friday, December 21 with school resuming on Monday, January 7.

Wednesday, December 5, 2018

This Macarons Decorating Process Is Really Mesmerizing



Macarons are small elegant cakes made of crushed almonds and meringues. This dessert is a great choice for the upcoming holidays!

Sunday, December 2, 2018

Annual BLS Christmas Program


Remember to mark your calendar for the night of December 12 for Bethany’s Christmas Program. This is a school-wide (grade K-8) production so every student will be involved. The location of the performance is at Vacaville Performing Arts Theater across the street from Bethany school. 

This event will begin at 6:30 P.M. and will feature our Kindergarten through fourth-grade students performing musical selections and first through eighth grade, performing “The Light Before Christmas” In addition, both of our bands will also be performing! You do not want to miss this great event!

All students (grades K-8) are expected to participate in the Christmas program. Students have been instructed that PERFORMANCE takes PRECEDENCE over a rehearsal, meeting, practice, and sorry to say...even birthdays. A performance does NOT take precedence over a wedding, a pre-booked vacation, or a once-in-a-lifetime event. All absences need to be documented AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Please inform your student’s teacher or Dr. Nomura. Emergencies will be treated as such.

Students must be at VPAT by 6pm. (K-4th) Students have been instructed on what they should wear through a notice that will go out to parents. (1st-8th) Band students MUST wear holiday attire or their chapel uniform but they are allowed to wear Santa hats if they would like. For the Christmas musical, students are allowed to wear nice holiday attire (school appropriate) or chapel uniform UNLESS they have specific costumes in the musical.

Thursday, November 29, 2018

The Case for Christ in Education – Core Knowledge

The end of the semester is right around the corner! Every student is bound to go through a number of interesting thoughts after finishing up their final assignments prior to the Christmas break. Staff is eager to get the holiday season ramped up, and parents are planning their precious time they will be afforded with the impending break. However, before we can all relax and relish in the time we will receive with friends and family, I want to take the time to share with you a priority and goal that our staff has committed to at the beginning of the school year.

As a staff at Bethany Lutheran, we realized that some of our current curricula were disjointed, our rigor in the classroom was below expectations, and our students could handle being challenged a bit more. Therefore, as a staff, we recommitted ourselves to providing the best Christian academic experience as we possibly could. We believe that in order to best prepare our students for the future, we needed to refocus our attention on content, as well as approach.

Please bear with me as I explain what all of this means: Education in America has a rich history dating back to the 1600s – but most primary, middle, and high school, as well as some colleges and universities, no longer see their priorities as helping students find the meaning of life, building a life of strong character, learning to serve others or preparing for civic Christian responsibility.

Now, most schools are about pre-professional vocational training and ethical and moral experimentation for the students and this shift away from the true foundational aim of education has been a disaster.

All too often this has led to our nation’s students being “academically adrift” – ill-prepared for adulthood and productive, meaningful careers, and distracted or injured by unhealthy school and life alternatives, political correctness and a lack of religious freedom at school.

At Bethany Lutheran, we are modeling the renewal of Christian education – combined with the study of liberal arts and sciences. Because of our commitment to general revelation, we believe we can study the finest books, art, and culture and learn much about God’s world. We believe all truth is God’s truth. We have recommitted ourselves to a broad liberal arts education where our students take classes focused and centered on Gods’ words and mandates.

A Christian education is designed to be broad and deep. Broad by encompassing a general core curriculum focused on Core Knowledge and deep by studying a lifelong concentration with rigor. Our learning is comprehensive, interdisciplinary and connected. We are deeply committed to teaching our students to ask the big questions, think profoundly and critically and communicate well.

Studying Core Knowledge principles and Christian ideologies teaches: Learning is for its own sake and not just for a diploma – we are learning to slow down, think deeply, be curious, to realize that knowledge brings great joy, and that wonder and curiosity are more important than IQ, a point made by a recent study in the Harvard Business Review.

Core Knowledge is about developing abilities – Study after study shows that high school teachers complain about the kind of graduate’s middle schools are pumping out – graduates who can’t write well, think critically, problem solve or work well in diverse groups. This is exactly what the Core Knowledge does best. It is what Bethany Lutheran does best.

Developing high moral character, habits of the heart and a strong sense of purpose and vocational call – BLS strives to cultivate students who work hard, enjoy life, and have a strong sense of purpose – a life of “faithful presence.” We want our students to see these years as a time to ask the big and hard questions about all aspects of  Christian life – to develop a meaningful philosophy of Christian life. We desire for them a Christian life of character, high moral integrity and a vision for their future.

In short, BLS attempts to provide students with quality academic years of transformative experiences that change them forever and set them on a trajectory of faithfulness to God, a rich and abundant life and a life that launches them into adulthood – one that contributes to our nation and world by productive work, building strong family and being a good neighbor. As we work even harder to ensure our students’ success we continue to ask for your wonderful prayers and support. There is much work yet to be done but with God, all things are possible!

Dr. Chris E. Smith
Principal

Monday, November 26, 2018

Get Your Tickets Now For The 17th Annual Crab Feed & Auction


17TH ANNUAL DINNER AND AUCTION

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2019
1000 ULATIS DRIVE, VACAVILLE, CA

DOORS OPEN AT 5:30 PM, DINNER AT 6:30 PM

MENU:  CRAB (CHICKEN OPTION AVAILABLE), PASTA, SALAD, GARLIC BREAD 

CLICK HERE or SCAN QR Code to Purchase Tickets

Friday, November 23, 2018

24 Fun Christmas Treat Ideas For Advent Calendar Desserts



It's the time of the year that we've been all waiting for! Christmas songs, decorations, hanging out and eating tons of food with the family. So let's start the countdown with a special dessert advent calendar, a new treat for every day until Christmas!

Tuesday, November 20, 2018

Saturday, November 17, 2018

It’s Officially COLD & FLU SEASON


It’s officially cold & flu season! Time to send out a friendly reminder that it is now more important than ever to make sure we all eat well and get our sleep. That we stay hydrated and we wash our hands throughout the day. We need to use tissues when we have a sore or runny nose. That when we cough we DO NOT cough into our hands (we can spread germs that way) but into the crook of our arms.

Wednesday, November 14, 2018

Photos For The Yearbook

Hi Parents! I was hoping you'd have photos that I can include in the yearbook that you've taken this year at school events. It can be from Chapel, Honor Roll, classroom, recess, Harvest Festival, Sunday BBQ, etc... please send them my way at megumi.nomura@gobethany.com Thank you so much!

Sunday, November 11, 2018

Pie Pick Up Day—Nov. 14!


Please remember to pick up your pies on Wednesday, Nov. 14th—we will not be able to store them for you. Pie distribution- 2pm—4:30pm

Thursday, November 8, 2018

Technology A Priority for BLS


Greetings in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! I pray this newsletter finds you doing well and enjoying the unseasonably warm Fall weather we are having. I wanted to take a moment and speak about our overall fundraising goals for Bethany. As you are aware, we are in the process of planning the construction of a new pre-school building on our campus, which means we will gain two classrooms back when the preschool moves into their new building. At that time, we would like to open our new Science & Technology Lab. The lab will be located where elementary music currently is housed. Ms. Donna would, of course, move back into the A building close to the primary school students as before.

It is our hope that our Science & Technology Center will house 25 - 30 desktop computers, a teacher workstation, overhead projector, 3D printer, laser printer, smartboard, and much more, making it one of the most innovative and progressively advanced centers in the area. With that being said, our goal through fundraising will be to cover the majority of this center over the next two years. Please bear in mind that this will take a huge effort on our part, as the cost will be between $20,000 - $35,000, but with God’s blessing and guidance we will reach our ultimate goal. Thank you, everyone, for helping us thus far, with your love and support we are putting a dent in that total already!

In HIS Service,
Dr. Smith

Monday, November 5, 2018

Chick-Fil-A To Partner With BLS


I am happy to announce that Bethany Lutheran will be partnering with Chick-Fil-A to bring nutritious and delicious lunches to our campus on Friday’s. Teachers, parents, and students will be able to place their order by Wednesday night to receive a hot and ready to eat meal. Meals can be various items such as chicken nuggets, chicken sandwiches, chips, salads, and much more. Complete information with ordering instructions will be disbursed as soon as the process has been finalized with the company.

Friday, November 2, 2018

Trunk or Treat Recap

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! Words can not express the sincere gratitude that I have for all of our wonderful parents and staff. Trunk or Treat this year was absolutely amazing. The evening was filled with fun games, good food, and some of the most wonderful trunk decorated themes I have ever seen. To quickly recap our top finishers; 1st place went to First Grade (Willy Wonka), 2nd place was Mrs. Fernandez Kindergarten (Magic School Bus), and 3rd place was 5th & 6th Grade (Fortnite). Honorable Mention went to our preschool team (Under the Sea). Everyone did a stellar job and it was exciting to see how competitive and well thought out the trunks were this year. I am very proud of everyone who participated in the event.

I want to also thank Paula Rush for her tireless efforts in helping put together the event; Janice Williams and Juanita McCallum for manning the kitchen; Jerry Miller who helped at the ticket booth; the preschool staff for running the multiple game stations; all the parents who worked tirelessly on the trunks, the Frizzies who picked up and returned the portable lights; the Dykes for helping with cleanup; Ron Shively and Mike McCall for making sure the sprinklers didn’t come on and the lights were on; the BLS staff for helping make the evening a total success, and everyone for their generosity and donations of items for the event.

I am reminded of a verse from the Bible which states “two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). Friday night was a living example of togetherness, unity, and teamwork. The only way to move Bethany Lutheran forward in a manner pleasing to our Lord and Savior is to continue to move as one in Christ. When the whole team is working for the glory of God, there is no internal competition: “I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow” (1 Corinthians 3:6). The unified team understands that reaching goals is God’s doing, and what God is doing requires teamwork on our part: “The sower and the reaper may be glad together. Thus, the saying ‘One sows and another reaps’ is true. I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor” (John 4:36–38).

Christian teamwork acknowledges God as the established leader and objective third party in every team, adding strength and cohesion to the bond. Having basic relational boundaries in place helps teams focus on the job at hand. With love for God and love for one another, unity is possible (Ephesians 4:13). It helps to be humble and “consider others better than ourselves” (Philippians 2:3). It is events like these which continue to inspire me, as I know that God has wonderful plans for Bethany. Again, thank you all for your dedication, support, and love of our school. Together, with God at the forefront, Bethany will set the standard in Christian education.

In HIS Service, Dr. Smith

Please send your Trunk-or-Treat photos to:

Tuesday, October 30, 2018

10 Last Minute Halloween Treats | Party Snacks | Twisted



Boo! It's Halloween time! And what better way to celebrate the spooky season with delicious Halloween treats? But if you're crunched for time, don't stress because this video will show you how to make the best last-minute treats.

Saturday, October 27, 2018

Christmas Wreath Sales


The Bethany Youth Group is once again selling Christmas Wreaths. All funds raised will go towards sending our youth group to the National Youth Gathering in Minneapolis, Minnesota from July 11 – 15, 2019. We are selling five types of wreaths.


All wreaths will be delivered to Bethany School during the first week of December. All orders must be in by November 4th!! So you only have Two Weeks!!
If you want to order a wreath, please contact Kevin Shaw (Youth Director) at nafl@nafl-usa.com Place order with him via email and you can bring a check made payable to Bethany here in the office.


Sunday, October 21, 2018

Apples for the Arts Pie Sale is Coming to an End—Oct. 25

LAST WEEK TO GET YOUR ORDERS! Don’t Miss Out! 
All orders and money are due in the school office Thursday, October 25th! Remember to ask all your friends and family as these pies are PERFECT for the upcoming Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays! Order forms are still in the school office.

All pies must be picked up on Wednesday, Nov. 14th. Please plan accordingly. 

Thursday, October 18, 2018

Minimum Day Schedule - Oct. 24-26 Parent / Teacher Conferences & Report Cards


Parent conferences with teachers will be held for K-4 families starting Wednesday, October 25 – Friday, October 26. Middle school conferences will be held both in the afternoon and in the evening on Thursday, October 25th. Please remember that all three days, Oct. 24-26 are minimum school days. Sign-ups will be available for individual teacher appointments beginning Monday, October 15th through their teacher’s. Please plan to be in attendance.

Extended Care will still be available. Please have your child bring lunch. 
Report Cards will be available in TADS beginning October 24.

Tuesday, October 9, 2018

DIY Halloween Treats!



Happy Halloween! These are three original treats I came up with perfect for Halloween.

Saturday, October 6, 2018

Fall Festival & Trunk or Treat

Special meeting just for the organization of this event on Tuesday, October 9 at 6pm—Ulatis Campus fellowship hall
(earn partnership hours by coming to this meeting)

Fall Festival & Trunk or Treat

 This year’s festivities will take place Friday, October 26 at 6pm on the Ulatis Campus. It is right around the corner! IT TAKES A LOT OF PEOPLE to make this event happen as this event is one of our most special for the year.

*Set-Up *Clean-Up *Games *Photos *Food *Activities/Arts & Crafts *Organize parent trunk sign-ups *Decorations *Organize class candy

Wednesday, October 3, 2018

Sunday, September 30, 2018

Message From The Principal

Hello Bethany K-8 Families:

VERY IMPORTANT

  • Shorts are no longer allowed at chapel. This was a Wednesday-by-Wednesday basis that was to be determined by Dr. Smith. The weather is now changing so going forward: Boys must wear navy long pants to chapel.
  • Chapel shoes: white, black, navy, tan or gray are allowed. NO RED or crazy colors for chapel.
  • You MUST "check in" your child in the school office if you arrive after 8:10am. Generally, roll has already been taken and we need documentation of when your child arrives on campus.


In His Service,
Dr. Smith

Monday, September 24, 2018

Fall Book Fair Update!


The Scholastic Book Fair theme this fall is Enchanted Forest! Think unicorns, fairies, owls, mushrooms, gnomes! Our Fall Book Fair will be here before you know it! This year’s Book Fair will be held October 15 through October 19 at BLS. Christine Dicker will be chairing this event.

  • Book Fair Week: Monday, Oct. 15—Fri. Oct. 19
  • Online Book Fair: Fri. Oct. 12—Mon. Oct. 22nd http://www.scholastic.com/bf/gobethany
  • Door Decoration/Locker Contest: PS—4th Grade Door Contest. 5th-8th Grade Locker Contest.
  • Please have your door/locker completed by the week of October 12. Judging will take place Friday, October 12 and winners will be announced during chapel the week of the book fair, Wednesday, October 17. Decorations should be within the theme of the book fair. All materials used should NOT damage lockers or doors—NO STICKERS!
  • Preview Day: Friday, October 12 (the book fair will be set up for students to VIEW the books and make wish lists)
  • Class Trip Day: Monday, October 15 the book fair will be open ALL DAY for all classes to come visit. Please be sure to send money with your child on this day so they can make their purchases during their class visit.

Tuesday, September 18, 2018

God Is Good, All The Time!


As you may have heard, our preschool located on South Orchard Avenue in Vacaville, CA. experienced a major fire August 14th. As a school community and church, it has been a very difficult time but a time in which we have seen God’s blessing through hardship. So many people in our community and around the world have reached out to us and asked how they can help and how they can pray and support us moving forward. The BLS staff and I invite you to prayerfully consider contributing much-needed items to our preschool ministry. We have created a list of children’s classroom items which will directly benefit our little ones in the days, weeks, and months ahead. If the spirit moves you to help, please feel free to send new or gently used items to Bethany Lutheran Preschool, 621 S Orchard Ave, Vacaville, CA 95688. Gift cards are always welcomed as well as an option to purchase items.

Thank you for the important part you play in our body of Christ, for the love and generosity you have shown us, and for your prayerful support through this difficult challenge.

In HIS Service Always,
Dr. Chris E. Smith, Principal

Saturday, September 15, 2018

Fall Book Fair



Our Fall Book Fair will be here before you know it! This year’s Book Fair will be held October 15 through October 19 at BLS. Christine Dicker will be chairing this event. We are looking for volunteers for our fall Book Fair — an exciting celebration of reading with hundreds of fun, engaging, affordable books for kids to discover. Join our volunteer team to:
●Bring Creative Flair to signs and decorations
●Organize and put things in place
●Offer a helping hand, set up, or pack up
●Help shoppers of all ages find the perfect
book.
Our Book Fair is quickly approaching so we need to get going in order to have a successful Book Fair.

Sunday, September 9, 2018

All Schools Candle Fundraiser


So many of us are ready for Fall—what a PERFECT fundraiser—Candles! Bethany Lutheran Schools are now selling wonderful candles. These candles are great quality with a long burn time. These would make terrific gifts! This fundraiser will run from September 5—September 17. Bethany Schools will receive 50% of the profits! Wow!!! Make sure to get the fundraising packet from your child as they went home at the beginning of the week.

Candles should be delivered at the end of September or 1st week of October.
Make checks payable to Bethany Lutheran School

Thursday, September 6, 2018

Organizing for Kids: How to Teach Kids Where Things Belong



In this video I show you an easy (and fun) way to teach your kids where things belong! Of course, there are so many things you need to do when it comes to teaching kids about organization, but this is just one way to make a fun "game" out of it!

Friday, August 31, 2018

Volunteer Opportunities


Hello Parents!

There are many volunteer opportunities that you can be a part of! Not only will this help you accomplish your Partnership Hours but it will keep you involved in your child(s) school. Please come in the office building and look at all the sign-up sheets for different volunteer opportunities. This is located in the hallway down from the office on a bulletin board. Sign up! Later on, when it is time to start that particular opportunity you will be contacted.

Tuesday, August 28, 2018

Hot Lunches Pricing


Food 4 Thought has contacted us and apologized that they incorrectly set our lunch prices for 2-3 times what they should be selling for. Those families who have been purchasing lunches through the program will be getting a refund from the company. Those of you who chose not to use the program due to pricing will be pleasantly surprised with the new pricing.

https://foodforthought.boonli.com - (please bookmark this page)

Click on create an account: Password is: bethany, add account, profile(s) information

Sign In with your username & password To begin ordering click on the calendar date

Questions: michael@f4t.com or 925-876-3150

Saturday, August 25, 2018

Reminders


Label everything your child brings to school with a permanent marker. Many items look the
same or similar and this will allow us to return items that are misplaced or left behind by your
student. If you purchased items from our used closet, please mark out the previous name and write
your student’s name. Otherwise, it might get returned to the used closet.
Leaving Campus—BLS students are not allowed to leave campus without an adult unless we have
a parent’s written authorization on file in the school office. Students who wish to walk or ride their
bikes home or walk across to the library must have a note from parents on file giving permission to
do so.

Wednesday, August 22, 2018

Pick-Up and Drop-Off Reminders

First and foremost we ask that you DO NOT park in or block the circle area in front of the school by
the flagpoles for any reason. This is a FIRE LANE and should be left open and free of congestion at
all times!

We also ask that you DO NOT park in the drop-off/pick-up area on the north side of the Fellowship
Hall for any reason. This is for cars moving through to drop-off or pick-up students only. It is not a
place to park and make your calls, emails, etc. If you need to come into the school or you
choose to come up to meet your child as they get out of school—please park in one the many
parking spaces available on campus.

Between the hours of 7:30 AM and 8:15 AM and again from 2:15 PM to 3:00 PM the Harbison
Drive entrance becomes ONE WAY ONLY! Please DO NOT exit onto Harbison Drive as it causes
a backup with those trying to turn in. Please drive around and exit onto Ulatis Drive ONLY.

PLEASE exercise courtesy and patience with each other. Remember that our children learn
from our example.

Sunday, August 19, 2018

Doctrinal Beliefs


Bethany Lutheran Church is a Christian church, part of the worldwide Christian Church.


  • We believe that there is only one true God, who reveals himself in the Bible as being three persons in one God– the Father, who created and sustains the world; the Son, who became and lived as a man, died, rose from the dead and returned to heaven, taking up again His full glory and power; and the Holy Spirit, who brings people to faith in Jesus Christ and imparts to them the blessings of faith. Each is fully God, and yet there is only one God, not three.
  • We believe that the Bible is the Word of God, spoken through human authors. It is trustworthy and without error. Its main message is the gift of eternal life found in Jesus, the only Son of God.
  • We believe that all people are born in sin (original sin) and that we sin against God every day and are in need of His forgiveness.
  • We believe that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior and that He is true God and true man and that He died on the cross to atone for the sins of all mankind. But the Good News is that Jesus rose from the dead on the third day and opened the gates of heaven to all who believe in Him.
  • We believe that we are saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ even though there is no merit or worthiness in us.

Bethany Lutheran Church is also a fellowship of Lutheran Christians. We are affiliated with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, a Biblically conservative church body. The LC-MS is called a “confessional” church body because we publicly confess our faith. We believe that the three ecumenical creeds are faithful declarations of the Christian faith. These include the Apostles’ Creed, the Nicene Creed, and the Athanasian Creed.

Our congregation is called “Lutheran” because we follow the Bible-based teachings of Martin Luther, which were the driving force for the Reformation of the Church in the 16th century. God used Luther to proclaim again the Biblical truth that in Jesus Christ, God is loving and merciful. Forgiveness and eternal life are gifts that God wants to give people through faith in Jesus. During the time of the Reformation, much of the church was reformed and revitalized and brought back to its Biblical roots. The teachings of the Lutherans were gathered together in the Book of Concord of 1580, and are used as a confession of faith by our church body.

Lutherans still hold to Luther’s theological teaching of Grace alone, Faith alone, Scripture alone. These comprise the very essence of Lutheranism:


  • Grace Alone. The Bible teaches that we are saved from sin, death, and everlasting condemnation only by God’s grace, his undeserved favor toward us. Human beings cannot earn their way to heaven. God, in his rich mercy, wants us to have eternal life with Him. See Ephesians 2:8-10.
  • Faith Alone. Faith is the only way by which we can receive God’s gifts of grace. Faith is trusting in Jesus Christ alone for eternal life, and is a creation not of man, but of God. 1 Corinthians 12:3 says, “No one can say Jesus is Lord except by the Holy Spirit.” Faith is created and sustained by God working through his Word, through Baptism, and through the Lord’s Supper.
  • Scripture Alone. The writings of the Old and New Testaments of the Bible are the only rule and norm by which all doctrines and teachers are measured and judged (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

Our church is a sacramental church. We teach and practice two sacraments, or sacred acts:  Baptism and the Lord’s Supper. In the Lutheran church these, along with God’s Word, are called “Means of Grace.” In other words, the Word, Baptism, and the Lord’s Supper are “vehicles” or means of God giving his grace to his people.


  • We believe that baptism is first and foremost God’s work, where he forgives sins, rescues from death and the devil, and gives eternal salvation to all who believe this. See Matthew 28:18-20; Mark 16:16; 1 Peter 3:20-21; Titus 3:5-7; Acts 2:38 etc. Because the Bible teaches that Baptism begins with God’s action of grace, we baptize children and infants as well as adults.
  • We believe that in the Lord’s Supper, along with the bread and wine, the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ is actually given and received by those who eat and drink. Jesus himself declares, “This is my body…This is my blood.”  See Matthew 26:26-28. The Bible teaches also that our sins are forgiven, for Jesus says in Matthew 26:28, “This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.” Because 1 Corinthians 11:28 says that we are to examine ourselves before we eat and drink, a period of instruction is appropriate before communing at the altar.

Monday, August 13, 2018

Accepting New Students


  • Dually accredited with Western Association of School & Colleges (WASC) & National Lutheran School Accreditation (NLSA)
  • Christ-centered education
  • Meeting the needs of the community
  • Qualified teaching staff
  • Family oriented, child-focused learning
  • An environment that is conducive to learning
  • Quality programs and individualized opportunities
  • Centrally located in Vacaville, minutes from I-80
  • Before and after school care programs available

Tuesday, August 7, 2018

Saturday, August 4, 2018

Pre-School Program


Bethany Lutheran Preschool strives to provide a program for preschool children (ages two years-nine months to Kindergarten) and their parents that offers the highest caliber of preschool education to the children of our community and is consistent with the Christian teachings of Bethany Lutheran Church of Vacaville.

We hope that as you browse our website, you’ll find that most of your questions and concerns are addressed. We look forward to meeting you and your child!

To schedule a tour please call 707-451-6678


Wednesday, August 1, 2018

Sunday, July 29, 2018

Please Join Us This Tuesday, July 31st For An Open House!



Bethany Lutheran School
(K-8th Gr, Toddler, Preschool, & EK)
1011 Ulatis Drive, Vacaville

Tuesday, July 31 – 6:00 PM

Attend the open house and receive
50% off Registration Fee

Monday, July 23, 2018

Tuesday, July 31 – 6:00 PM Open House 50% Off Registration Fee!



Bethany Lutheran School
(K-8th Gr, Toddler, Preschool, & EK)
1011 Ulatis Drive, Vacaville

Tuesday, July 31 – 6:00 PM

Attend the open house and receive
50% off Registration Fee

Friday, July 20, 2018

Summer Program: July 23 – July 27 “Bug" Week



Fun | Friends | Fellowship

Music | Arts & Crafts | Drama

Sports | Field Trips | Games | Water Days

Conduct | Character | Cooperation

Christ-Focused

July 23 – July 27 = “Bug" week
July 30 – August 3 = “Water" week
August 6 – August 10 = “Sports" week

$45.00 Registration Fee

Saturday, July 14, 2018

Open House Tuesday, July 17th! Join Us And Get 50% Off Your Registration Fee



Bethany Lutheran School
(K-8th Gr, Toddler, Preschool, & EK)
1011 Ulatis Drive, Vacaville

Tuesday, July 17 – 6:00 PM

Attend the open house and receive
50% off Registration Fee

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

4 Weeks Left Of Sensational Summer Program!



Fun | Friends | Fellowship

Music | Arts & Crafts | Drama

Sports | Field Trips | Games | Water Days

Conduct | Character | Cooperation

Christ-Focused

July 16 – July 20 = “Pirate Theme" week
July 23 – July 27 = “Bug" week
July 30 – August 3 = “Water" week
August 6 – August 10 = “Sports" week

$45.00 Registration Fee

Friday, June 29, 2018

Still 6 Weeks Left Of Our Summer Program! Check It Out!

Fun | Friends | Fellowship

Music | Arts & Crafts | Drama

Sports | Field Trips | Games | Water Days

Conduct | Character | Cooperation

Christ-Focused

July 2 – July 6 = “Red, White & Blue" week
July 9 – July 13 = “Animal" week
July 16 – July 20 = “Pirate Theme" week
July 23 – July 27 = “Bug" week
July 30 – August 3 = “Water" week
August 6 – August 10 = “Sports" week

$45.00 Registration Fee

Tuesday, June 26, 2018

Admissions



Thank you for considering Bethany Lutheran School for your child’s education! At Bethany, we strive for the highest level of academic learning and achievement and offer all our services in the context of a Bible-based and Christ-centered community of faith. Our students develop Christian character and excel academically while serving God and others.

Our staff is here to answer any questions you may have about Bethany Lutheran School and to assist you in every step of the enrollment process – and then help your student adjust to those first few days in a new school.

We would like to provide you additional information about Bethany Lutheran School and to arrange for a personally guided tour based on your availability. You can reach our Admissions Office by telephone through the school office, 707-451-6683, or via email at myschool@gobethany.com. Admissions forms and additional information are also available online at the bottom of this page.

After reviewing the information, visiting our campus, and submitting your Registration paperwork we will schedule an assessment test. (The $75.00 testing fee covers the cost of the assessment.) Once your child has taken the assessment test, we will work with you regarding the best placement for your student.

If your family is in need of financial assistance, scholarships are available through The BASIC Fund, a privately funded organization providing partial-tuition scholarships to low-income families across the Bay Area. For more information on how to apply for one of these scholarships, please visit basicfund.org.

We encourage our new families to participate in the many activities and events at Bethany Lutheran School. This not only provides families with the opportunity to meet the faculty and staff at Bethany, it also provides us an opportunity to introduce you to returning and other new families.   Before you know it, the school year will begin, and your child will have many new friends and experiences to tell you about.

We look forward to having you as part of our Bethany School family!

Wednesday, June 20, 2018

Sign Up For Our Fun Summer Program!

Fun | Friends | Fellowship

Music | Arts & Crafts | Drama

Sports | Field Trips | Games | Water Days

Conduct | Character | Cooperation

Christ-Focused

$45.00 Registration Fee

Sunday, June 17, 2018

What Is A Call?

In the LCMS, there are two types of Divine Calls: Minister of Religion-Ordained and Minister of Religion-Commissioned. Ordained Ministers are Pastors who have completed their education and training through an LCMS Seminary. Commissioned Ministers are Principals, Teachers, Directors of Christian Education, Directors of Parish Music, etc who have successfully completed a degree program and have the approval of a
college/university of the Synod for ministry.

The calling and placing of Ministers of Religion in the church involves the whole church. The Holy Spirit guides and directs the process of calling workers in His kingdom through people, on behalf of calling entities (e.g. a congregation, educational institution, etc.), according to their constitutional processes (e.g. church governance and bylaws). Each step of the process will always include prayer that God’s will be done and that the Holy Spirit guide the process and decisions.

A Call comes from God through the calling entity and is extended by God to the Called person. Thus, congregations, district officials, synodical officials, and college/university placement directors in the Concordia University System of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod work together cooperatively to provide the calling entity with ministers who are qualified and capable of carrying out the mission and ministry that the Lord has entrusted to His church.

When a church extends a Call to a Minister of Religion, the Called person receives a Call Document, called a Diploma of Vocation, which outlines the details of the Call. A sample Diploma of Vocation can be downloaded below.

The basic process of calling a Commissioned Minister is as follows:


  • Formulate position or job description
  • Collect names of eligible Commissioned Ministers
  • Inform and seek advice from District officials
  • Call committee narrows down the list of candidates through interviews
  • Candidates may visit church/school
  • Congregation votes to extend a Call to the chosen candidate
  • Candidate accepts/declines Call
  • If the candidate accepts, they are installed as a Commissioned Minister

Thursday, June 14, 2018

As The Page Turns Summer Drama Camp


Who: Children K thru 8th grade

What: Summer Drama Camp

When: July 23-26

Where: Bethany Lutheran Church
621 S. Orchard St.
Vacaville, CA

Time: 9:45-12:00 noon

Cost: $30

For more information click HERE

Monday, June 11, 2018

Friday, June 8, 2018

Frequently Asked Questions


Where are you located?
We are at 1011 Ulatis Drive in Vacaville, CA. For those of you who are familiar to Vacaville, it’s rather simple. We are across the street from the Vacaville Cultural Center at the corner of Ulatis and Harbison Drives. For those not familiar with Vacaville, we are minutes off of I-80 taking either the Allison Drive (EB I-80) exit or Nut Tree Drive (WB I-80) exit to Allison.  [East bound travelers may turn right onto Allison Drive; whereas, westbound travelers will want to turn left onto Allison Drive, going over the freeway. Proceed to Ulatis to then turn left at the light. Continue past the school to the next light after Harbison Drive and make a U-turn to allow access to the front parking lot. (It’s actually much simpler than it reads.)

What does it mean to be “Lutheran”?
Lutheran Christians believe in the inerrancy and authority of Scripture and that salvation comes as a free gift by God’s grace through His Son, made possible by the Holy Spirit nurturing in our hearts the faith God has given us. Faith is the confessed sinner’s acceptance of Jesus Christ as Savior and a trust in all of God’s promises. Forgiveness is the believer’s daily need, for total holiness is possible only after entering eternal life.

Do I have to be Christian/Lutheran to attend Bethany Lutheran School?
No. It is our desire that our actions as an overall ministry are a reflection of God’s love for us. If you desire to know more about what it means to be a redeemed child of God, you are welcome to ask any member of the church or school staffs. Know that your family will be in our prayers as a Christian community, regardless of your religious affiliation.

What is a “Christ-centered education?"
A Christ-centered education is an education that, quite simply, makes God’s love for all of us through His Son, our Savior Jesus Christ, the reason why we do what we do. Having that freedom allows us the freedom to look at multiple viewpoints when addressing classroom topics. Being Christ-centered also allows us to use any opportunity that comes along as a moment where we can reflect everyone in our midst the same love we understand as God’s redeemed people. In other words, the understanding of Christ as Lord is not limited to just Bible class or Chapel.

Is there a school uniform?
Yes. Chapel day (Wednesday) requires a specific uniform, and there is standard school attire for the remainder of the days. All acceptable clothing is outlined in the handbook and available through Dennis Uniform Company. We also operate a used uniform closet for the drop-off and purchase of previously used uniform clothing.

Are you accredited? What does it mean to be accredited?
We are dually accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and the National Lutheran Schools Accreditation (NLSA). Being accredited means that we have given a strenuous look at everything that makes us who we are, where we want to be, and how we are going to get there. Private schools are not required to be accredited; it is a voluntary process that allows a school to put into place a formal process for school improvement that involves the whole school community.

What are the average class size and teacher-to-student ratio?
While numbers fluctuate from one year to the next, it is expected that enrollment in any one class will not exceed twenty-five students (Kindergarten not to exceed 22). At this time the average class size is nineteen students and the staff: student ratio is 1:13.

What co-curricular opportunities are available for students?
The school’s Parent Teacher Organization facilitates and After-School Enrichment program for students that covers a wide range of interests. Band, Art (K-4), Computers, Physical Education, and Music are contained within the scheduled school day; athletics are slated for introduction beginning the 2013-2014 school year.

Is there a requirement for parent involvement?
Parents of Bethany students are not required to purchase SCRIP to lessen their cost of tuition. Parents are required to give hours of service to the school as part of the Partnership Program. More information and forms for completion of required hours can be found through the Parent Teacher Organization section of this website where you can also be updated on ways to get involved.

Is there Extended Care available?
Yes. There is before and after school Extended Care available for a cost specified in the registration materials. For further information on the program, please feel free to contact the school’s office at 707-451-6683.

Is there Financial Aid?
Yes. Information on Financial Aid is available through the office of the Business Administrator at the church by calling 707-451-6681.

Tuesday, June 5, 2018

Sensational Summer Program At Bethany

Fun | Friends | Fellowship

Music | Arts & Crafts | Drama

Sports | Field Trips | Games | Water Days

Conduct | Character | Cooperation

Christ-Focused

$45.00 Registration Fee

Saturday, June 2, 2018

Summer Drama Camp: July 23rd-26th


Who: Children K thru 8th grade

What: Summer Drama Camp

When: July 23-26

Where: Bethany Lutheran Church
621 S. Orchard St.
Vacaville, CA

Time: 9:45-12:00 noon

Cost: $30

For more information click HERE

Wednesday, May 30, 2018

Kindergarten & 8th Grade Promotions / Awards


It is amazing that we are already at that time of year. End of year projects, programs, field trips, award ceremonies and promotions...

Tuesday, June 5—Kindergarten Promotion will be held at our school campus in the fellowship hall @ 9:30am. Mrs. Fernandez will have more information regarding help needed etc.

Wednesday, June 6—End-of-Year Awards for all students will be given out to students during chapel—Wednesday @ 8:30am.

Wednesday, June 6—8th Grade Promotion will be held at Bethany Lutheran Church in the Sanctuary (621 S. Orchard Ave.) @ 6pm with a reception in the fellowship hall to follow.

Thursday, June 7—Field Day & BBQ—please see attached on what you can bring…

Thursday, May 24, 2018

Vacaville Fiesta Days



We're previewing the sounds of the Vacaville Fiesta Days event on the Good Day Stage.

Monday, May 21, 2018

Vacaville Fiesta Days: Partnership Hours Opportunity


If your student walks the Parade Route with Bethany we will allow that time to be used as part of your Partnership Hours. Please make sure to have a partnership hour sheet with you to have signed by someone from Bethany. They can be found online or right outside the school office.

We have an amazing opportunity on Saturday, May 26th to show our school pride and represent Bethany School and Preschool in the Fiesta Day Parade! We are asking everyone to come in Bethany dress (your school shirts or school colors: Red, White, and Blue). We will be walking in the parade, children may decorate and ride their bikes/scooters/wagons as well. We will be meeting at the corner of Mason St and Williams St. at 9:15am. The parade route ends at Bethany Preschool/Church so we would recommend parking at the Church and walking to meet us. Please let us know if you plan on attending so we can get a rough guess at the number of people joining us. We hope it is everyone!!

Friday, May 18, 2018

From The Principal

Security is Job 1
Dear Bethany Lutheran Community,
We are very proud to announce that additional security has been added to the school. Thanks in part to PTO and Scott Ledford, classrooms and offices around campus have been equipped with the new Lock Block safety feature to provide increased security in the event of danger on campus. This rubber device titled "Lock Block" prevents locked doors from completely closing, allowing the handle to stay locked and students to quickly lock doors without the need of keys in the case of danger on campus. Doors will remain locked at all times, and when students need to quickly go to the restroom or their locker, etc. they can use the door block to keep the door slightly ajar, without locking, until they return.

WASC / NLSA Accreditation Visit Completed
We did it! We made it through the accreditation visit this week, which began on Sunday afternoon. Thank you, first and foremost, to our staff, Church Council, and all the parents who were asked to be on focus groups throughout the process. Additionally, thank you to our students who did an amazing job welcoming our visitors and loving them as if they were already a part of our community.
The visiting team gave their evaluation feedback, which included commendations of the administration’s ability to equip the staff and students with the necessary resources needed to succeed academically. The visiting team also commended the school for its’ friendly, loving, and nurturing school climate. Some areas of attention or focus were also discussed during the closeout session. One area of critical need listed the assessment of student learning outcomes as a recommendation for improvement and a formalization of action plans to that end. Although the overall visit produced some very insightful information, I believe that the overall vision, mission, and direction of the school was clearly substantiated. This was a very tough process which also created some trepidation among faculty and staff, but I truly feel God’s ultimate plan for this campus is shining through.

Tuesday, May 15, 2018

What Are Your Summer Plans?

Fun | Friends | Fellowship

Music | Arts & Crafts | Drama

Sports | Field Trips | Games | Water Days

Conduct | Character | Cooperation

Christ-Focused

$45.00 Registration Fee

Saturday, May 12, 2018

Partnership Hours

It doesn’t seem possible but we only have five weeks of school left!
As we have said throughout the year, “Please do not wait until the end of the year to try to complete your hours. There are fewer and fewer opportunities as the school year comes to a close. However, there are a few opportunities coming up that will allow you to complete some of your hours, (i.e., helping teachers, lunch help, talent show, field trips, End-of-Year BBQ, etc.). Remember: in order to receive credit for your completed hours, YOU MUST record the hours on the Partnership Hours form, including the date, activity and/or job description and the number of hours. A BLS staff member or event coordinator must then initial that hours were completed. The completed forms are then turned in to the school office so they can be recorded by Student Billing. Partnership hour forms are available in the rack outside of the school office or on the school’s website at www.gobethany.com. All Partnership Hours for the 2017-2018 school year must be submitted to the school office by June 15, 2018. If you have completed your required number of hours for the 2017 2018 school year, there is no need to continue recording them…you are finished! Thank you for partnering with us and your continued support of the mission of BLS!

Wednesday, May 9, 2018

Summer Program At Bethany!

Fun | Friends | Fellowship

Music | Arts & Crafts | Drama

Sports | Field Trips | Games | Water Days

Conduct | Character | Cooperation

Christ-Focused

$45.00 Registration Fee

Sunday, May 6, 2018

Outdoor Worship and BBQ Picnic...


What an amazing time we all had coming together as one! We worshipped; we sang; we played musical instruments; we ate; we played field games; we had a scavenger hunt; we hiked and there were even Pena Adobe Museum tours! We did it all! THANK YOU to Bethany Lutheran Church for orchestrating this wonderful event along with our school staffs. THANK YOU to all of the volunteers: those who shared food items, those who helped set up and clean up, the Praise Team and Hannah, our soloist! THANK YOU to the children who sang and played during the service! THANK YOU—to our Bethany Families who came out in droves to help us celebrate each other and Jesus Christ! Truly a great time was had by all and everyone is already talking about when can we do it
again?!!!

Thursday, May 3, 2018

Paws For Books Book Fair!



“Come. Stay. Read a Great Tale!”

Our Scholastic Paws for Books Book Fair will begin on Monday, May 14 and last the week. Our focus for this book fair is to encourage summer reading. We will have many exciting events and activities planned for our Spring Book Fair. More information to follow… We will need help with: Registers Setup Decorations Breaking down If you can help, please contact Christine Dicker at dickerchristine@hotmail.com Thank you for partnering with us to make this another successful Book Fair!!!

Friday, April 27, 2018

Alliance Redwoods—5th-8th Grade Outdoor Education

5-8th Grade Outdoor Education
This is a part of our curriculum; it is not just a field trip.

Hello Bethany Parents -

Please make sure to go online to register your child and fill out their medical waiver forms at https://www.smartwaiver.com/v/arcg2018may/ These forms are mandatory and should be done ASAP. Your $200 is due no later than Tuesday, May 1—checks made payable to Bethany. Please direct your questions to Mrs. Bakken, Dr. Smith, and Paula Rush Thank you

Saturday, April 21, 2018

Minimum Day—Friday, Apr. 27


Friday, April 27 will be a minimum day and school will be dismissed at Noon. We will still have extended care so please have your child pack snacks and a lunch.

Wednesday, April 18, 2018

5 Easy Rainbow Snacks For Spring




5 Easy Rainbow Snacks for Spring

Rainbow Fudge

MATERIALS
24 ounces melted white chocolate
16 ounces cream cheese
3 teaspoon vanilla extract
8 cups powdered sugar
Food color gel
Hand mixer
9-inch square pan
Parchment paper

INSTRUCTIONS

1. In a large bowl combine melted white chocolate, cream cheese, vanilla extract with a hand mixer. Mix until smooth.
2. Slowly incorporate 8 cups of powdered sugar into the mixture. Mix with a spoon first then a hand mixer to avoid spills. Mix until smooth.
3. Separate mix into 6 bowls. Add food color gel to get the colors of the rainbow.
4. Line a square pan with two layers of parchment paper.
5. Pour the first layer of fudge into the pan and then smoothen out with a spatula. Tap the pan to remove any bubbles.
6. Repeat the pour and process with the other layers.
7. Refrigerate for at least one hour.
8. Remove fudge from pan and parchment paper.
9. Cut into one-inch squares. Serve and enjoy.

Rainbow Pretzel Sticks

MATERIALS
Melted white chocolate
Large pretzel sticks
Rainbow assortment of sugar sprinkles

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Dip pretzel stick in melted white chocolate. Leave about an inch of the pretzel uncovered.
2. On a large plate carefully layout sprinkles into rows of color.
3. Carefully roll the white chocolate portion of the pretzel in the sprinkles. Roll until the white chocolate is completely coated in sprinkles.
4. Serve and enjoy.

Rainbow Frosting

MATERIALS
Cake frosting
Food gel color
Piping bags
Plastic food wrap

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Separate frosting into 6 bowls. Add food gel color to create a rainbow assortment of color.
2. Place each color of frosting into a piping bag.
3. Layout a layer of plastic food wrap.
4. Carefully pipe outlines of frosting onto the plastic wrap in sequential rainbow order.
5. Carefully roll the plastic wrap and connect the first and last row of frosting.Twist the ends of the plastic wrap until the frosting is compacted into a long.
6. Cut the end of one side of the frosting log.
7. Slide the frosting log into a piping bag with the trimmed tip going in first.
8. Carefully pipe the rainbow frosting out of the bag. The colors will blend together to create a rainbow effect.

Rainbow Drip Ice Cream Cone

MATERIALS
Colored candy melts
Ice cream cone

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Melt colored candy melts in separate bowls.
2. In a clean bowl, spoon in small amounts of candy melts. Keep the colors separate.
3. Carefully dip the head of an ice cream cone into the candy melts.
4. Tap and turn the cone to control the drips of the cone.
5. Serve with ice cream and enjoy.

Rainbow Icing Dip

MATERIALS
2 cups powdered sugar
2-3 tablespoon milk
Food gel color

INSTRUCTIONS
1. Combine powdered sugar and milk. Mix until smooth.
2. Separate into 6 bowls and add food gel color.
3. On a shallow plate, carefully spoon out a small amount of icing in a rainbow sequence.
4. Dip a donut (or any other pastry) into the rainbow icing. Pull out to reveal the rainbow pattern.
5. Serve and enjoy.