The end of a school year is filled with memories, and I can't help but think back on some of my favorite memories of this year: The compassion and empathy I see on the playground each day. . . the look of discovery and understanding on the face of a child during a particularly difficult lesson . . . the sheer joy of teaching I see on our teachers' faces. It would be impossible to capture a picture of the dedication shown by our fabulous parents or the long hours the entire SOV community devoted to our WASC accreditation. There certainly was cause for joy when we received our full six year accreditation.

There are also fond memories of many other events this year, too. It was always a treasured moment for me when a class sang in chapel or presented their chapel program. McTeacher Night was a fun-filled evening, as were all of our fellowship events. Participating in the "Great Shake Out" with so many other schools and businesses in California was a fabulous learning experience for everyone. Watching so many of our students participate in after-school sports was always fun! And some of us are still humming the great songs from the Alley Cats assembly and our own Music Festival. Then there was the day I sat on the roof! Shepherd of the Valley children certainly banded together to ensure our Read-a-thon would be a success and I would be sent to the roof.

One of the best memories of any year is reflecting on the time our sixth graders have spent here at Shepherd. We've watched many of them grow and mature since kindergarten. The year of hard work culminated with their week spent at outdoor education at El Camino Pines, their fun trips to the beach and Knott's Berry Farm, and of course the moving and memorable graduation chapel. We wish them the best as they now take that giant step to middle school. In the words of Henry David Thoreau, "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you imagined." May God continue to bless you, Class of 2009!

In Christian Love,

Mrs. Haskell

Dear friends,

What a great year it has been at SOV! We have learned to care about God, the world, others, and ourselves. In caring about God, we have learned that God always loves us. In caring for the world, we have made our environment a better place. In caring for others, we strengthened our community. In caring for ourselves, we have grown more and more into the people God calls us to be through Jesus.

In Jesus' Name,

Pastor Bryan Woken

SOV cares! Your years here at Shepherd of the Valley have taught you what it means to be part of a caring Christian community. You have learned the importance of being part of something bigger yourself and for caring for those around you. May you continue to grow in your service in the world and your relationship with God. Blessings on all life has in store for you.

Your Sister in Christ,

Pastor Stacy Payne