LENAWEE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY 1
PHILOSOPHY Lenawee Christian School is a non-denominational, coeducational institution, preschool through grade twelve. The school is committed to the historic Christian perspective of life as set forth in the Bible, recognizing God as the Creator of all things, the Son of God as Savior of all who believe in Him, and the Holy Spirit as the Comforter and Convictor of all who believe in Him. Lenawee Christian School is committed to the Judeo-Christian ethic and holds that the knowledge of God is the beginning of wisdom; that the Bible is the infallible, inerrant word of God; that fellowship with God is the true basis for fellowship with one another; that each student is uniquely created by God and is endowed with particular talents. Therefore, the aim of our Christian school, functioning as an extension of the home, is to nurture each student in his or her development as a whole person: spiritually, mentally, physically, and socially, providing the opportunity to educate for eternity (2 Tim. 3:16-17) as we seek to see them grow toward maturity in Jesus Christ (Col. 1:28-29.) PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES The purpose of Lenawee Christian School (LCS) is to provide a learning environment centered around the Christian philosophy of the Lordship of Christ. In this atmosphere students can develop their intellectual, spiritual, physical, and social potential to the end that their lives will glorify God. Therefore, the school endeavors in every way to ensure that it offers a quality educational program thoroughly integrated with the truth as revealed in the Word of God. To achieve the purpose of a quality, Christ-centered education, the following objectives have been adopted (Romans 12:2, I Corinthians 10:31): SPIRITUAL 1. To teach an understanding of basic doctrines of the Christian faith (see Statement of Faith). 2. To teach application of Biblical ethics and standards of morality to every part of life (Col. 4:6). 3. To instill a desire to reach out to a world that is lost (Matt. 28:19-20). 4. To prepare young people for productive service in the local church and community. 5. To develop godly character and a desire to please God above all else. ACADEMIC 1. To encourage our students to apply themselves to work toward, recognize, and achieve their potential (2 Tim. 2:15). 2. To enhance the creative skills of each student (Eccles. 9:10). 3. To develop effective communication skills in order for our students to meet future needs in a learning, work environment, and family living (Eph.4:29, I Peter 3:15). 4. To recognize and foster the God-given abilities of each student (I Peter 4:10). 2
SOCIAL 1. To teach each student cooperation, fairness, courtesy, kindness, and other Christian graces in his contact with fellow students and non-students (Gal. 5:22). 2. To motivate our students to accept their civic responsibilities as citizens of our nation and citizens of heaven (I Thes.4:12, Rom. 13:1-7). PHYSICAL (I Cor. 6:19, 20) 1. To build within each student experience and knowledge for a lifetime fitness routine. 2. To teach students to maintain their bodies for the glory of God. 3. To instill a sense of personal worth, contentment, achievement, usefulness, and success. 4. To develop an awareness of bodily abuse. STATEMENT OF FAITH The basis of the Lenawee Christian School shall be the Word of God as interpreted by the following statement of faith: 1. We believe the Bible to be the inspired and only infallible authoritative Word of God (2 Timothy 3:15). 2. We believe that there is one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit (John 10:30). 3. We believe in the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ (John 10:33), in His virgin birth (Luke 1:35), in His sinless life (Hebrews 4:15), in His miracles (John 2:11), in His vicarious and atoning death (Ephesians 1:7), in His resurrection (John 11:25), in His ascension to the right hand of the Father (Mark 16:19), and in His personal return in power and glory (Revelation 19:11). 4. We believe that for salvation of lost and sinful man, regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential (John 3:16-19). 5. We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit, by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life (Romans 8:13-14). 6. We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost; those that are saved unto the resurrection of life and those that are lost unto the resurrection of damnation (John 5:28-29). 7. We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ (Galatians 3:26-28). 3
Art We believe God created all things (Rev 4:11 & Col 1:16) and that all things God created are good (Gen 1:21). In the area of visual art, we at Lenawee Christian School believe art should be taught in a way that glorifies God. We desire to educate students and give them a creative outlet as they honor the Lord. God created us in His image, and as His image-bearers we have been endowed with creativity. It is our goal to awaken and nurture that God-given ability. As artists we glorify God, share His truth, and lead others to an appreciation of His creative masterpieces. This is done through the study of how God uses the principles and elements of design in His creation. We can appreciate His creation by developing reflective thinking skills, making connection between skills and knowledge, and creative problem solving as individuals and as part of a group. The arts engage the imagination, which allows thought to be reflected on and constructed in new and fresh ways. Art cultivates active decision making, visual literacy, evaluation, and cultural appreciation. Through drawing, painting, printing, ceramics, sculpting, and other media and materials students learn and explore how art connects to every subject in the curriculum. The arts reinforce what is learned and puts it in another context for students. Through the study of art history, students are encouraged to develop a Christian worldview as it relates to artists, cultures and eras of history. Students will also see the fallen state of man through the study of the art masters' worldview. It is our desire to stimulate the students' interest in the visual arts, and to help them understand and appreciate its components so that they have the capacity to develop their talent and Christian worldview. Students learn the best when not only do they find a personal meaning in the art and are excited by the project but more importantly, have a safe and supportive environment to learn and express themselves. It is our aim to establish rapport and relationships with students so that each learner feels comfortable and safe in a classroom that fosters a genuine flow and expression of their God-gifted creativity. Bible The faculty and curriculum of the LCS Bible Department serves an integral role in fulfilling the school s mission to integrate biblical truth for life. The equipping of each student to effectively integrate biblical truth rests upon our commitment to glorify Jesus Christ through the clear and practical teaching of biblical truth at each grade level. We desire to instill in every student a Biblical worldview that is based wholly upon God s inspired, inerrant Word resulting in students who are equipped with the tools to be lifelong followers of Jesus Christ as they live Spirit-filled lives of Christlikeness. We commit to faithfully guide students in what God calls them to know about Himself and His world and into a deeper understanding of who He calls them to be. This knowledge and belief will manifest itself in a life of faith characterized by Christ-like humility and service to others as students discover that which they are to do. We pray that God will continually reveal His specific purpose for each individual and His methods for Kingdom building through the Living and Written Word. As we lead our students into a deeper understanding of God s Word in each grade, we believe the Holy Spirit is able to do the work of convincing each student of their need for Him, convicting them of sin, and empowering them for godly living. 4
While every class taught at LCS integrates biblical truth, we believe that classes existing for the sole purpose of focusing on the Word of God and how it relates to all of life are essential. These classes will seek to produce in our students a thoroughly biblical worldview, offering opportunities for discussion and application, and learning how to live out the Great Commandment (to love God and others) and the Great Commission of Jesus Christ. We seek to equip our students to make disciples as they love God with every part of their being. The hoped for result shall be a community set free by God s abundant grace. Through the work of Jesus death on the cross and the power of His resurrection from the grave, we have been given new life that we will proclaim in and out of the classroom. His supreme sacrifice and victory over death is the reason for our existence. We witness to Jesus as Lord and call others into repentance, faith, obedience, and hope. By making Biblical instruction a required core class for all grade levels, we are most able to offer our students opportunities to surrender to the Holy Spirit as He leads them into spiritual maturity measured by the manifestations of the fruit of the Spirit, genuine worship revealing a biblical understanding of the Creator-Redeemer and a commitment to a community of gathered believers. When confronted with erroneous worldviews and philosophies, students will be equipped to defend Truth as they take every thought captive, making it obedient to Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5; 1 Peter 3:15) We strive to provide students with access to biblical content and theology using best teaching practices. In order to provide a well-rounded biblical education, we will incorporate a variety of methods that will strive to meet each student at their level of spiritual maturity including: inductive Bible study, Scripture memorization, discussion, research/investigation, the exploration of Bible narratives, catechizing using a question and answer approach, active learning, and drama. We will also actively seek to promote a relational atmosphere of authenticity and honesty which allows each student to acknowledge where they are in their relationship with Christ and encourage one another to grow. English Language Arts As beings created in the image of God, we have been uniquely gifted with the ability to communicate with one another through the written and spoken word. This ability to communicate is an important part of all academic disciplines and social interactions; therefore, our pursuit of excellence in the area of language is inherently valuable. The English Language Arts program at Lenawee Christian School consists of a content-rich curriculum taught from a Biblical foundation and designed to give students at all grade levels the tools needed to skillfully and effectively communicate truth according to the abilities God has given them. The study of grammar, spelling, and vocabulary enables students to properly articulate their thoughts through speech and composition. Students will be equipped to clearly compose their ideas and, most importantly, learn to articulate God's truth, defend their faith, and persuade others to become followers of Jesus Christ. Reading rich works of literature provides students with examples of excellent writing. Class discussion based on these literary selections enhances the students ability to read and think critically, to discern truth from error with minds informed and transformed by biblical truth, and to reclaim that which was corrupted by the fall to its original 5
God-glorifying purpose. Through the study of English, students are encouraged to take advantage of the indwelling of the Holy Spirit as they read and seek better ways to express their thoughts in writing and speech. As beings created in the image of God, we have been uniquely gifted with the ability to communicate with one another through the written and spoken word. This ability to communicate is an important part of all academic disciplines and social interactions; therefore, our pursuit of excellence in the area of language is inherently valuable. Mathematics At Lenawee Christian School, we begin with the premise that All truth is God s truth (John 1:1-3, Col.1:16-17; Prov. 3:19-20). Jesus Christ, the Word of God, is the Source of all truth (John 14:6; Heb 6:17-8). He sustains truth, knowledge and matter; all of His creation is intended for His glory. Mathematics is the language God used to create the universe; its principles and truths permeate all subject matter. Specifically through mathematics, God has revealed aspects of His divine nature: His creativity(gen 1), precision( Gen 6-the ark; Ex 25-28 the tabernacle; Matt 5:48-justice), dependability and unchanging faithfulness (Gen 8:21-2; Deut 7:9; Jer 31:35-6; Mal 3:6), order (Ps 119: 89,97; I Cor 14:40; Heb 10:9; I Cor 7:35), His eternal and absolute nature (Ex 3:14; Ps 90:12), and His unfathomable greatness (Job 11:7-9; I Kings 8:27; Is 55:8.9). Throughout the scriptural narrative, we see God at work as the divine Problem-Solver (Gen 3:15 ; Romans 3-5). When Adam and Eve sinned in the Garden of Eden, all of creation bore the curse of the Fall (Gen.3: 14-19; Rom 8:19-22). Although we are created in the image of God, we are born with an inherent sin nature. Our nature, our character, and our reasoning are flawed (Rom. 1:21; 3:9-12). We see some of the effects of the Fall in math in the errors we make in calculation and reasoning, and that even the learning of mathematical principles takes hard work. Graphs and statistics can be manipulated to twist or slant their interpretation. Pride can creep into mathematics, as well, when we claim credit for abilities and accomplishments that the Creator has given. Mathematics can be applied for good or for evil purposes (Jer. 17:9). Mathematics has applications for progress in computer science, engineering, robotics, navigation, coding and cryptography, medicine, and network design, to name a few. However, these applications can each be used for evil purposes to hack into secure websites, design biological weapons, to create some model using technological advances with the intent to destroy or bring harm to mankind or the environment. We acknowledge the importance of having our minds renewed by the Spirit of God (Rom. 12:2) so that we can understand and know what is good. Wisdom and discernment for all of life come from God. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; fools despise wisdom and instruction. (Prov. 1:7) For the LORD gives wisdom; from His mouth come knowledge and understanding. (Prov. 2:6). Our purpose in mathematics at LCS is to reveal our glorious Creator and Sustainer to our students and for them to know and appreciate the beauty He has placed in mathematics. We want to pursue the breadth and depth of mathematics in the fear of the LORD. Since mathematics is the language God used to create the 6
universe, it is important to learn this language and be able to articulate it to begin to understand our Creator and His creation. Mathematics is also a tool for man s dominion and care of creation under God (Gen 1:28, 2:5,15; Ps.8:5-8; Is 28:23-9). We want our students to learn mathematical principles so that they will be prepared to organize, plan, calculate, and evaluate ideas and practices to better serve others and advance God s kingdom on earth (Col 1:28-2:8; Gal 6:9; Titus 3:1,8,14 doing good works should be all inclusive; surely we want good bridge builders who get their numbers right!) Ten Integrative Principles for LCS Mathematics: 1. In math we teach reasoning skills and logic, which find their source in God. 2. Math is characterized by problem-solving. Our heavenly Father is the original Problem-Solver in that He made a way for us to be reconciled back to Himself through the sacrifice of His only Son. 3. In math we learn about infinite sets of numbers. As finite creatures we can t fully grasp infinity. Yet this concept comes from the Eternal One. 4. Math is rich with patterns within sets of numbers, and patterns that can generate sets of numbers. The existence of patterns or design demands a Designer. 5. Some areas of math are abstract, such as the three undefined terms that form the foundation for Euclidean Geometry: point, line, plane. Abstract concepts remind us that God is unfathomable, far greater than we can comprehend. 6. Math has components that do not change. One of the most important of these is place value, which helps us interpret the value of arrangements of digits. The unchanging nature of place value points to the absolute nature of God. 7. Numbers can be arranged in order as they are compared by place value. Equations are solved by steps that follow order of operations. The concept of orderliness comes from the orderly God. 8. Measurement is an important concept in mathematics. Accuracy and precision in measurement are patterned after the precise Creator. 9. Students in math are constantly taught to check their work. This concept came from the creation model when God saw everything He had done and said it was good. 10. In math, answers or solutions are right or wrong; they can make a statement true or false. Truth is not relative, it is absolute. Jesus states that He is truth, and He does not change. Music Music is God's gift to us. In 1 Chronicles 23:5, it says, "... 4,000 shall offer praises to the Lord with the instruments that I have made for praise." The study of music and making of music develops the total person. 7
Music encompasses all of the disciplines. Instrumental music studies have shown that math scores improve when students are exposed to music. Studies also show that musical studies in the morning improve their brain development for the day. The study of music is essential: not a secondary course of study. Every facet of development is touched: intellectual, social, spiritual, psychological, and physical. This is at the core of our teaching at Lenawee Christian School. Whereas music is one of God's great gifts to mankind used as a primary means of worshipping God, intellectual stimulation, and can bring about emotional stability. This is done through high quality music, taught with love and understanding, to bring each student to a higher plane of skill, praise, emotional stability and intellectual understanding by way of this calling called MUSIC. Physical Education As a department of Lenawee Christian School whose mission is to integrate Biblical truth for life, we acknowledge God as creator and man as an integrated whole being. We recognize the effects of the Fall of man on all of creation and its need for redemption. Four foundational truths regarding the teaching of physical education define our purpose and form the basis for our teaching, our activities, and our evaluation. Based on these truths, we conclude that we are to lead physically active lives. Therefore, the goal of our program is that all students will have the knowledge, skills, and motivations to be physically active throughout their lives. Redemption: As fallen creatures, we are in need of God s redemptive work in our whole being physically, mentally, socially, emotionally and spiritually. Physical activity in our culture- is often a micro-cosom of life: and allows for revelation, evaluation and reconciliation in each of these areas. (Rom. 8:18-23, 2 Cor. 5:18-19) Stewardship: We should lead physically active lives because it is one of the ways to care for and maintain our bodies as the temple of the Holy Spirit. God has placed man in a position of vice-regent, caretaker under God, over all of creation. Our bodies, as a significant part of that creation, are to be cared for, maintained and reconciled for his glory. (Gen 1:26-28, 2:15, I Cor. 6:19-20, Rom. 8:20-21) Service: We should lead physically active lives, not as acts of self-service, but rather that we might be fit to be used in whatever way He calls. Having received the gift of life - physically, mentally, spiritually -we render all of it to His service. The wise steward was the one who invested the talents he was given in order that they would bring a profit to his master. Likewise, we should invest our talents that they would be used to advance His kingdom, not lie dormant nor be self-serving. (Rom 12:1, Luke 19:11-27) Celebration: We should lead physically active lives as an act of worship that celebrates the wholeness of life. Enjoying life in our Creator is one of the highest forms of praise. Physical activity presents an opportunity to bring together our whole self - physical, mental, emotional, social, etc. It reflects the wholeness in which we were created. (Deut. 6:1-2, 2 Sam 6:5, John 10:10, I Tim. 6:17) 8
Science Science is the systematic knowledge of the physical and material world gained through observation and experimentation (Dicitonary.com). True Science is limited to phenomena that can be observed, measured and repeated. Christian education and the teaching of scientific principles are not mutually exclusive. The purpose of acquiring knowledge is so that we discover truth which leads to a greater understanding of the Creator. God s fingerprints can be seen throughout creation and reveal His true character which will lead the believer to genuine worship (Romans 1 & 2). God s Word reveals the Truth about the creation of the universe. Psalm 19:1-6 tells us that all of creation declares the glory of God. Since God is outside the limitations of the natural laws of science, He may suspend them to perform the miraculous. Man, however, is bound by these scientific laws. As students study the different sciences, they have the opportunity to learn truth. It is the vision of the LCS science program to deliver a curriculum that combines the inerrant Truth of Scripture with inquiry based scientific methods to enable students to more fully discover the complexities of God s design. To accomplish this vision, our students will combine processes and scientific knowledge as they use scientific reasoning and critical thinking to develop an understanding of God s creation, beginning with the supremacy of Biblical Truth, using the following methods: Utilize a Christian Worldview curriculum with high academic rigor and relevance that recognizes God as the Creator of the Heavens and the Earth. Integrate inquiry based teaching to help students to maximize their critical thinking skills while enabling them to exhibit core knowledge on standardized tests and ultimately be able to better defend their faith. Create an environment with a focus on learning that is results oriented and declares the glory of God. Allow students to build their learning environment by using a hands-on and minds-on approach to encourage the discovery of answers to their own open-ended questions through the process of investigation with no fear because all Truth is God s Truth. Social Studies Social Studies is the academic discipline that treats the study of human behavior, institutions, and history (the human story from an institutional, cultural, and behavioral viewpoint). When taught and learned within the framework of our Christian curriculum, all branches of social studies require a proper understanding of 9
human beings as those created in the divine image, fallen into sin by nature and by choice, yet redeemed through the atoning work of Jesus Christ, who lived, died, and rose again for the salvation of all souls. Many who do not yet know Christ live in societies where their history and institutions are contrary to this Biblical view of humans. Therefore, our mission is to communicate and transmit to our students a Christian worldview by stressing in the various fields of social studies the rule of God s providence and guidance. Our inclusion of Social Studies into the LCS curriculum is integral for our students future capacity as Christfollowers who love God and love their neighbor. To further define the characteristics of our Social Studies program, these important principles will guide our content and instruction. 1. History is God s story. He rules as King of kings and Lord of lords, and permits and guides the events of history to his ultimate glory and for the good of those who love Him. We are first and foremost responsible to Him. His authority is not superseded by any nation state. 2. In order to love God we must love our neighbor. The definition of our neighbor is not found within tidy, orderly, socio-economic boundaries. Our neighbors are not found only in those nations with which we share political alliances. We are called to love beyond our comfort zone. 3. Government has been established by God (Romans 13:1) for the sake of order in the world, that the Gospel may be preached and taught and that our lives and property might be protected. 4. We have a civic and scriptural responsibility to be involved in the dispensation and protection of truth, justice, and order within our nation state and throughout the world. 5. The earth is the Lord s and everything in it; the world, and all who live in it (Psalm 24:1). Geography examines the Lord s earth and how all who live in it adapt to their environments and manage its resources. 6. The study of behavioral sciences (Psychology, Sociology) is the examination of the behavior of fallen sinners, helping us to understand ourselves and others, both individually and in groups. Our mission is thus to enhance our students view of their world and its people and to help them understand and appreciate cultural differences and unique histories and institutions, in the hope of reaching the unsaved with the good news of Christ. The effectiveness of our program resides in the students capacity to implement the commands of Christ. Real world application alongside complimentary discussion is necessary to measure success. Ultimately, our success will be measured by the development of attitudes, behaviors, and convictions within our student population which embody the six principles listed above. Technology Technology permeates civilization. It is more than just a tool; it is human activity. Dutch philosopher Egbert Schurmann regards human activity as giving form to nature for human ends, with the aid of tools [1]. Technology involves not only tools and techniques but also organizational and cultural aspects [2]. It is not harmlessly neutral, inherently evil, or innately good. 10
Because of sin s corruption of all that God created, interacting with fallen creation requires discernment, wisdom, accountability, law and prudence in bringing technology under the Lordship of Christ [3]. Technology should not be ignored, for within it resides the potential for great good, and as a part of the raw materials provided in God s good creation, it should fill the earth to develop and help the human condition. Yet, blindly embracing technology without an awareness that technology giveth and technology taketh away and that the disadvantage may exceed in importance the advantage, or the advantage may well be worth the cost would be foolish and dangerous [4]. It can ambiguously free and enslave, form and deform, create and destroy, prosper and impoverish. As an epistemology, it has less visible implications, but the effects of how the mind takes in knowledge must not be overlooked. The Christian school must view technology through the lens of biblical truth with redeemed minds and ready hands to restore technology to God s original intention. The Christian school must not ignore it nor embrace it uncritically. It must rule over it as a part of God s creation by taking every thought captive to the obedience of Christ for the glory of God (Genesis 1:27-28, 2 Corinthians 10:5, Psalm 115: 1). [1] Egbert Schuurman Technology and the Future(Wedge, 1983) p. 5. [2] Arnold Pacey The Culture of Technology (Backwell, 1983) pp. 4-7. [3] Mark Eckel Establishing a Personal, Biblical Philosophy of Internet Usage (2005) p. 1. [4] Neil Postman Five Things We Need to Know About Technological Change (1998) p.1. World Languages God set the world in order by speaking and continues to use language to speak to His creation. God communicates His message of salvation to people of every tribe, nation, and language. Furthermore, students reflect God s creative nature through their daily use of language. Learning and speaking diverse languages gives students an appreciation for God s diversity and allows them to form relationships with people of other culture groups who are also made in God s image. By increasing their language skills and learning about other cultures created in God s likeness, students can work towards overcoming the effects of the fall as they learn to value others and move past their egocentricity. By learning another language, they can grow in their ability to show hospitality, compassion, and friendship to otherwise strangers. As students better understand and communicate with others, they can love them as Christ does and bring His light into a dark world. Creation reflects God s law and order, His rules, principles, and patterns. The rules and patterns of language are also a reflection of the Divine Order throughout creation. Students need precision in their speech to communicate their thoughts, build relationships, and explain the Truth of Christ when given the opportunity. Through the use of language, God continues to bring His unity and love to people around the world. 11
Christian Philosophy of Education for Students with Exceptional Needs Lenawee Christian School views all students as valued, unique image bearers of God. (Genesis 1:26-27) Student Support Services exist to serve students who have identified exceptional needs which, in addition to the regular classroom, require supplemental services and/or accommodations. Education is seen as a means used by God to bring students to Himself through personal faith in Christ and to develop Christian minds so that they can fulfill God s will in their lives both personally and vocationally. Through Student Support Services (see below), students are encouraged to understand and use their Godgiven gifts and to identify growth in their areas of strength and stimulate weakness through individualized or small group settings. "God has created the human brain of all human beings, whether followers of Christ or not, in such a way that through proper stimulation the brain is open to modification at all stages of life, thus making it possible for all to learn as far as the cognitive systems are concerned; therefore, NILD's educational therapy can be effective for all people, whatever their spiritual condition." (NILD Board of Directors) As Christian educators, we are called to help bring restoration to the learning process within our students. As these students develop fundamental thinking skills, work to improve academics and understand their gifts, they become more fully able to participate in the mission of LCS: to integrate biblical truth for life with a commitment to glorifying Jesus Christ through academic excellence and spiritual maturity. As educators in a Christian school, we minister to the whole child but we focus primarily on his/her academic and spiritual life. Through interactions both in and out of class, each student is encouraged to learn to use his/her gifts to serve others so that God might be glorified (Matthew 20:25-28; I Peter 4:10) and to develop an understanding that through his/her weakness he/she can glorify God (I Corinthians 12:7-10). Student Support Services serves the total school ministry by partnering with parents as a support for their children s needs and teaming with teachers as a resource to implement instructional and testing accommodations in the regular classroom (I Corinthians 12:12-20). Our greatest desire for students is to know the Lord and to learn daily as they walk with Him. This walk encompasses the use of their gifts in pursuit of their learning, future career and life choices. We pray that each student will claim: with my God I can scale a wall (Psalm 18:29). Student Support Services Search and Teach Rx for Reading NILD Educational Therapy FIE 12
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