FAQ's and Questions
(Compiled on this page are some of the questions that have been most asked by applicant families.)
What are the school hours?
Monday - ThursdayK-2 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
3-4 8:00 a.m. to 2:45 p.m.
5-8 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
9-12 8:00 a.m. to 3:50 p.m.
Fridays
K-8 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
9-128:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Minimum Days K-12 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Are the teachers Christian?
Yes. Each teacher has professed a personal belief in Jesus Christ and is a member in good standing of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, it is based on a student wearing clothing that is appropriate, modest and proper fitting (with an emphasis on good grooming). SFVA Uniforms from Michael’s Uniforms will be used for the current school year. Specific details and prohibitions are reviewed yearly and published for distribution to families in the annual Parent/Student Handbook.
What percentage of SFVA students go on to college?
According to data released in the spring of 2009, over 80 percent of the graduating classes go on to college.
Is there much homework?
Homework is planned for and expected nightly, however, it may vary according to the grade level and personal schedule. While no specific daily written homework is given for grades K-2, in grades 3 & 4 parents can expect one to two hours weekly; grades 5 & 6 two to five hours weekly; and grades 7 & 8 five to eight hours weekly. In grades 9-12 students can expect between 1-2 hours of homework nightly.
What are the means of communication between school and parents?
Every eight weeks parents receive progress reports and one final grade report. Teachers and counselors may communicate additional concerns by letter of telephone and are also available to meet with parents upon request. Through our website www.sfva.org parents may receive up-to-date status, and communication regarding their child’s progress may be obtained through our EDLINE link of this site. A Parent/Student Handbook and regular school bulletins are published and distributed to families. The Home and School Association has four meetings a year: Orientation, Back-to-School Night, Family Open House and Awards Night. The Advisory Council, composed of two or more parents from each grade level, meets an additional four times per year to communicate with administration. The Principal’s Page and The Paw Print are published periodically and designed to communicate information about the school to students and parents.
What about finances?
General finance information will be given during your interview. Specific information will be sent along with your acceptance letter. Inpidual questions may be discussed with the Assistant Business Manager.
Is there a program of tuition assistance available?
Yes. Based on documented need, there are a limited number of “scholarships” that may be applied for on a yearly basis. Requests for information need to be sent to the Business Office before the beginning of the school term.
Why does SFVA put emphasis on active church involvement?
This has been one of the criteria used in evaluating applicants. We feel that active church involvement supports the mission of Adventist education—where the home, school and church are partners in providing opportunity for students to accept Jesus Christ as their personal savior and where each student is challenged to develop a personal sense of mission for giving the gospel message to all the world in preparation for the soon return of Jesus.