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THE MAGAZINE OF CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL • 2021-22 • ISSUE 1
Features
Departments
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LEARNING THROUGH CONSTRUCTION All three divisions are extending their classroom walls by stepping outside and into the building construction.
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STUDENT TAKEOVER Senior Brooke Russell shares how students are enjoying participating in beloved annual CCS community events and retreats.
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Send story ideas to laura.goodyear@charchrist.com Send alumni news to alumni@charchrist.com Send address changes to margaret.jackson@charchrist.com
KNIGHTS HEADLINES #IAMAKNIGHT EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT ACADEMIC SPOTLIGHT ATHLETIC SPOTLIGHT FINE ARTS SPOTLIGHT COMMUNITY
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DEVELOPMENT ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT CLASS NOTES ANNUAL REPORT SCRAPBOOK
Dear CCS Community, Every year in early December my closest friends and I gather for a weekend together. There are five of us and we each lead a Christian school. Our friendships have grown over the last two decades as we share triumphs, trials, prayer requests, best practices and lots of laughter. This year I was the host, so I met my friends at the Charlotte airport and we visited some of the sites of Charlotte. At one point, we made it to campus and since it had been a few years since several of them had been to Charlotte Christian, I proudly showed off Guy Field, Harvick Field House and the tennis courts. We also drove through the carpool lane and I shared about the middle school construction and the plans for the Upper School Building next year. The next day we went hunting in South Carolina and surprisingly this Massachusetts - raised, North Carolina transplant actually hit at least one quail. I actually believe I hit two but there was some debate. We were blessed on the hunt to interact with a Charlotte Christian graduate, a member of the class of 2017. This young man had recently graduated from college and was seeking to discern God’s calling for him. While in college he had thought and prayed about going to seminary and subsequently into full-time ministry. When I asked him about his current plans, he explained he was no longer thinking about the seminary and instead heading to work in the family business and his new focus was on ministry in the workplace. He was excited about sharing his walk with Christ with those he will encounter via God’s providence at work. My friends were extremely impressed with this young man and talked about how he was responsible, friendly, possessed perfect manners, easy to talk with and exuded a love for Christ. I was proud to show my friends our campus, but I was more proud to introduce them to our alumnus. I am grateful for how God, through our community, has provided the funds for an amazing campus, but I am more thankful for the impact our school is having on students just like Ike. He represents so many of our alumni that are simply seeking to be faithful to God’s call and that I know God will use to impact the culture for Christ. He along with many others is the embodiment of our mission. Praise God. God Bless,
Barry Giller Head of School
GRADES K-2 CHRISTMAS CHAPEL
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Photograph by Seventh Grader Morgan Shultz
Learning through
Construction
“Under normal circumstances, having a construction site in the middle of a JK-12 campus might present more challenges than opportunities; but our teachers have enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to turn this into a learning experience for our students,” shared Middle School Principal Brooke Morgan. Teachers and students in all three divisions and in multiple content areas have been able to extend their classroom walls by stepping outside and into the building construction.
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Drawing by Eighth Grader Caroline Coles
In lower school, kindergartners put on their hard hats and visited the construction site where they could ask the craft workers questions about what they saw. Afterwards they spent the day pretending to be engineers and builders: following plans and building from imagination usings LEGOS and blocks and trying to create a structure that could stand up with “beams,” (toothpicks) and “putty,” marshmallows. When reflecting on the kindergarten construction day, teacher Ms. Courtney Broocks shared, “I hope the students remember this day throughout all their years at Charlotte Christian. When they are middle schoolers sitting in their classrooms, they can think back to the day in kindergarten where they saw how the structure was built from the ground up and celebrated by becoming little engineers themselves.” All middle school science students visited the construction site and were challenged to think like a scientist using their five senses to observe, infer and make predictions. Throughout their observations, students were encouraged to reflect on the fact that all human beings are made in God’s image; made to love, to have intelligence and to be creative. Students were able to see how every person involved in the design
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and construction process is using their gifts and attributes to contribute to the building project. The project and safety supervisors shared about the many possible occupations in the construction trade. Middle school engineering students learned from the site supervisors about basic structural engineering concepts such as the use of triangles to provide strength and reinforcement in design and construction. As part of their study on the concept of design, upper school digital media students asked questions about architectural drawings and the process of turning those drawings into an actual structure. Architects and designers showed students different steps in the design process, reinforcing why design concepts are so important in engineering from beginning to end. Creative media classes in middle school took photos of the construction site from different angles, focusing on photography skills and composition. Photographers learned and practiced how to edit photos to enhance and improve the original shots
Drawing by Eighth Grader Lila Kelly
Photograph by Seventh Grader Jane Ramsey Darling
Construction began on the new Charlotte Christian Middle School Building in June of 2021 and the building is on schedule to be completed and open for the 2022-23 school year. “God has been so good to our school community and we are anxious to step into the new building next year. But in the meantime, our talented teachers will continue to maximize the gift that we have been given this school year, a front-row seat to an exciting new learning experience. What a blessing it is to serve your students in creative ways as we look forward to the opportunities the new building will provide,” Mrs. Morgan shared.
they took. Students selected a favorite photo and using Apple’s Procreate on their iPad, used different brushes, layering and effects to turn that photo into a piece of digital art. In middle school Art 3, artists created drawings that focused on the people and the details of the construction site. Katie Joe, grade 8, chose to draw a portrait from memory of one of the craft workers she had seen on campus. Several weeks later she saw him again and was able to share with him what she drew. Katie said of her experience, “It was fun to meet the person I drew! I appreciate his hard work to build our new Middle School Building.” The upper school Digital Photography classes applied the techniques of choosing composition and adjusting shutter speed and depth of field to capture images of the new Middle School Building. Students were inspired by focusing on the grid of the beams, the sky over the open construction and the workers who were busy in many different places around the structure. Ms. Karen Liebner, digital photography and middle school Art 3 teacher, shared about the opportunity of learning through construction, “As we have observed the construction over the past few months, we have been reminded of the many believers as members in the body of Christ - equipped and working in unity with different gift sets and building together.”
Drawing by Eighth Grader Claire Lucado
Drawing by Eighth Grader Elle Truax
Drawing by Eighth Grader Lexi Van Hoy 2021-22 ISSUE 1 n
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Bringing Community Back!
Lower School
After a year on pause, Charlotte Christian has been filled with joy and excitement as students began participating in their beloved athletic and co-curricular activities. Although continuing to look different with masks and social distancing, nothing stayed in the way of the special and ever-lasting memories being made between students and faculty members. One of this past semester’s highlights was the continued tradition of dedicating one week in September to fun, games and spiritual growth. The lower school spent S.L.A.M. days playing games and hearing a great message, while the middle and upper school took a turn heading up the mountains to Windy Gap, competing in class competitions and hearing the Lord’s message from amazing speakers.
During S.L.A.M. (spiritual life and meaning) lower school students dressed up in their class colors, competed in different activities while cheering on their classmates and listened to a devotion from Lower School Spiritual Life Director Christina Sachtleben. Each day they had fun together and listened to a message on Lamentations 3:22 and God’s great mercy “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, His mercies never come to an end.”
By Senior Brooke Russell
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First grade student Ari Williams shared about the fun-filled days. “We got to wear white, but I wish it was pink. I got to do a game where we had to take the teachers a bandaid on a scooter.” The lower schoolers also participated in the second annual Fall Fun Day. They spent the day bonding with their classmates in the beautiful fall weather. The cupcake walk was a class favorite, as the lower school students had the opportunity to win sweet treats brought in by parents. Although there were a few changes to keep everyone safe and healthy, the lower school students kept their spirits bright and cheerful during this first semester. “I won a cupcake…twice! I never won the cakewalk at Knightsfest so I was so excited to win one at the fall festival,” said fifth grader Mason Ledford.
Middle School
Upper School
“Historic” was the word used by seventh grader Kayla Brooks to describe her experience at Windy Gap this year. Despite having to mask up, nothing stayed in the way of the middle schoolers having the time of their lives. This year was more special than most, as it was the first trip up the mountains for both the sixth and seventh graders. During these three days, the students experienced deep emotion with the Lord and watched each other give their life to Christ. The students also participated in healthy competitions among their classmates. They played games like volleyball, ping pong, dodgeball and the unanimous class favorite, synchronized swimming. They racked up points to fight for the best advisory title.
Throughout the first semester the hallways of the upper school have been buzzing with busyness and the excitement of returning to a new normal. The upper school students also headed to Windy Gap this fall and the seniors went up a day before the underclassmen for extra class bonding time including a worship session around a bonfire and a karaoke night.
“I found that the speaker’s message was brilliant and that it brought emotion to Windy Gap and everyone in the middle school. It drew a lot of people closer to God and helped them to get on the right path closer to him and heaven,” shared seventh grader Kayla Brooks.
Another bright spot in middle school was the reintroduction of clubs this year. These clubs give the students great opportunities to serve their community, dive deeper into their academic interests or even just doing something fun to hang out with their teachers and classmates. The students were ecstatic to jump back into clubs after over a year off, and have a nice social break during their day. “There are several clubs that focus on putting others before themselves (like Mission Recycle Club and Christian Environmental Club) and learn that it is more beneficial to bring people up.”
Senior and spiritual life prefect, David Ntim, shared his favorite part of his senior Windy Gap experience. “I would say relationship because one of the biggest goals for me during this Windy Gap was to grow closer to God in prayer, and I believe that I was blessed to have that opportunity. I would also say I grew in my relationships with my friends which was a blessing to have, especially because we weren’t able to attend last year.” The students were also excited to be able to attend home sports events this fall! Friday night football games were a popular event after not being allowed to spectate last year. “Being back in the student section for football games was so much fun to cheer on our friends and come together as a school,” shared junior Connie Kofoed.
But the fan loyalty did not stop there, the student section also traveled to soccer and volleyball games to cheer on their friends. They also showed their support to the theatre department, as a live audience was allowed to attend this year’s musical as both middle and upper school students performed, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. “It was so amazing to perform in front of a live audience again,” said sophomore Karsen Betzhold. “They make the fine arts program what it is through their support. There was a significant boost in everyones’ spirits when we saw how many people came to enjoy the show. Our performance energy became immediately higher and helped us tell the story with new excitement after practicing for so long.” 2021-22 ISSUE 1 n
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KNIGHTS HEADLINES
To promote global awareness and empathy, our world language classes participated in Hispanic Heritage Month which is celebrated nationally every year in the fall. While our Spanish classes recognize Spanish speakers and Hispanic countries all year long, special projects and presentations were shared to honor the month.
“I enjoyed Hispanic Heritage Month and the exhibit project because it gave me the opportunity to expand my views of the Hispanic culture and learn more about Hispanic people and their important role in the world.”
In our lower school Spanish enrichment classes, Señor Abarca taught his students about the contributions and achievements of Hispanic Americans in the United States and shared pieces of literature from famous Hispanic authors to learn about different countries and cultures. Third grade students researched famous people of Hispanic descent and Addison Rohm, dressed up in costumes to share what they grade 8 learned with their classmates. “I enjoyed Hispanic Heritage Month because I thought it was cool to honor the Spanish individuals who accomplished great things,” said Graham Bengel, third grader who presented about Lionel Messi, an Argentinian soccer player. “Learning about Ellen Ochoa taught me to always reach for the moon,” said Isabel Mavico, third grader, who shared about the astronaut.
In middle school our world language teachers highlighted different Hispanic people who have contributed to our country in a special way. Señora Ferrari taught her students about “El 8
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Mate”, a typical Argentinian tea that builds friendship and community. “It is so ‘me’ that I love to share about it with the students as it is very authentic and far from stereotypical,” said Señora Ferrari. Eighth grade students in Spanish classes created an exhibit for Hispanic Heritage Month that they shared with fellow students about notable Hispanic Americans and culture, music, dance, art, food and games. “When we celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month, I really enjoyed the dances. I’m a dancer and I thought it was interesting how all the dances were created. I think it’s also a really great opportunity to learn about other cultures and to not just focus on American dances,” said Savannah Parker, grade 6.
Upper school students in Spanish classes created a collaborative poster of famous Hispanics and their quotes in addition to learning about the culture through music and activities around Dia De La Raza which is celebrated in Spanish-speaking countries. CCS Director of Diversity and Belonging Jozi Walker was a guest speaker in Honors Spanish and shared about intercultural communications.
Redesigning Fine Arts:
Music, Theatre, Visual Art and DIGITAL ART “Our media production curriculum provides students with a variety of options to explore as they seek to discover talents they have been blessed with,” said Mr. Don Humphries, digital music teacher. “The goal for students is to gain knowledge and excitement for the world of digital media that can be taken far beyond the walls of the classroom and into real-world application.”
Innovation in the digital arts at Charlotte Christian began nearly a decade ago with a few isolated electives in film production and digital music. The course offerings and digital classroom studios have blossomed in the past few years to include everything from digital photography and audio production to animation and graphic design.
This year the digital music studio was equipped with three new workstations that truly bring music composition, film production, audio engineering and graphic design together in one hightech playground. Scan the code to the right to look at how this new resource has created an atmosphere of curiosity, discovery and creativity in a new way on our campus.
Scan the QR code to experience the digital arts at CCS
Allison Reeves:
Author and speaker in Spanish doctorate program Mrs. Allison Reeves has been teaching Spanish 1, Spanish 2 and Spanish 2 Honors in the upper school at Charlotte Christian for six years and prior to that spent 12 years teaching in the CMS system. She earned her Master of Arts in Spanish from Winthrop University and is Nationally Board Certified. She is passionate not only about teaching Spanish, but also about building relationships with her students and colleagues, and supporting teachers and teacher development.
in October 2021. Her chapter analyzes the role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in education during the COVID-19 pandemic and the role that teachers have when reinventing their pedagogical practice to meet the needs of the 21st century.
She is currently working on a doctorate in education with UMECIT, an International University in Panama and plans to graduate in November 2022. The entire program is in Spanish and has included professors from Panama, Spain, Cuba, Colombia, Chile and other Spanish-speaking countries. As part of her doctorate program, Mrs. Reeves coauthored a chapter in Spanish of the book called “Gestión del Conocimiento: Perspectiva Multidisciplinaria Volumen 37 - COLECCIÓN UNIÓN GLOBAL” that was published
“God has put so much joy in my heart for teaching Spanish and for being a lifelong learner,” shared Mrs. Reeves. “Through the doctorate program, I am challenged not only with the coursework, but also with improving my language skills. Through my research the need for active learning and games-based activities in class has been reaffirmed. I have learned so much and have had such great conversations with professors and other educators about what it means to be an educator in today’s world.”
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MY FAVORITE THING
ABOUT BEING A CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN KNIGHT We asked students what they liked most about Charlotte Christian and here’s what they had to say…
“Everyone is really nice and I have a lot of friends and there are so many nice teachers and great rotations.” - Abigail Walker, grade 3
“Band class. I love band because it’s fun to do with others.” - Nico Nieto, grade 6
“Being welcomed wherever I go.” - Egypt Maxwell-Wright, grade 9
“I get to be a part of Charlotte Christian, learning more about education and God. It’s fun being a Charlotte Christian Knight!” - Christian Jordan, grade 1
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“Not only the delicious lunches or the amazing facilities, but also the community and amazing bonds you make with your teachers and friends.” - Burnam DuBose, grade 8 “The connection throughout the levels at CCS. There is a family with the elementary, middle and high school students.” - Judd Utermark, grade 12
“I already have a million jillion friends and it’s only my first year here.” - Adeline McArthur, grade 1
“Having such a great fine arts program.” - Ashlyn Nelson, grade 7
“The teachers want you to succeed and thrive.” - Stokes Greene, grade 9
“The teachers. They are always willing to teach us and help us grow.” - Hannah Woolery, grade 12
“We don’t have to skip ANY Bible lessons. We get to learn it all!”
“Having nice, loyal, kind friends and the best teachers in the world!”
- Graham Wilson, grade 1
- Henry McLean, grade 3
“That it is all faith based. I love this because it helps me be able to trust and be able to feel more comfortable at school.”
“That we have the opportunity to talk about Jesus and our love for him.”
- Ben Wales, grade 6 “Being surrounded by teachers, students and staff every single day who deeply care about sharing God with everyone and who genuinely care about the people they encounter.”
- Anthony Hernandez, grade 6
“Being able to talk freely about God in every class.” - Landen Goncharow, grade 9
- Katie Caldwell, grade 12
“We can learn about Jesus and how he died on the cross because he loves us so much.” - Ash Williams, grade 3
“The community and sports.” - Karis Blackson, grade 7
“All of the ‘fests’ we do like Knightsfest, Fall Fun Day and Field Day.” - Augusta Snyder, grade 3
“Having a great foundation for college from counselors and upper school staff.” - Triston Cropp, grade 12
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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
nding UnderstaEach Other’s Stories by
Jozi Walker, Director of Diversity and Belonging
As I reflect over my last 15 years in education, I am thankful for all of the unique experiences that each school environment offered and how these experiences helped me to grow into the leader that I am today. I have witnessed firsthand the impact that high performing instruction combined with building meaningful relationships can have on students’ ability to thrive in the classroom and develop into who God has called them to be. More than anything, I have found that the universal need of every child is to feel love and a sense of belonging in their school environment. I am grateful for the way our faculty, staff and students treat one another as family and strive to understand one another’s unique backgrounds and perspectives. I have been blessed to serve as an educator for grades JK12. This includes being a lead teacher, assistant principal and instructional coach. These experiences helped create my love for the school community as a whole and desire to help support and develop both students and teachers at all levels. One of the things I love most about being at CCS is the ability to interact with all grade levels and divisions. It has been a privilege to experience and be a part of our authentic community and witness firsthand the gifts and talents that God has placed in all of our students’ lives. As the director of diversity and belonging, I am committed to helping students build their confidence and competence in multicultural education as well as creating an atmosphere of unity in Christ. 12 CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
My desire is to help develop students and teachers on our campus and to affirm who God made them to be. Sometimes that is helping our students rewrite the narrative that they have learned about themselves as we each have our own diverse stories that are needed to complete the body of Christ. We all need to embrace our diverse backgrounds beyond just different skin colors. It is how God has fearfully and wonderfully made us and we need to understand the unique story that God is writing in each of our lives and allow Him to work through our identity, abilities and gifts to make an impact where He has placed us. I have had the privilege of sharing my story and discussing intercultural communication with our upper school world language classes. After I share my story, I encourage them to embrace the elements of their story and their history and identify misconceptions that others have had about them. I am blown away by the depth of their stories and the honesty with which they expressed the assumptions that others have placed on them based on their family history, skin color, socialeconomic status, gender and personality. We discussed that in reality, the depth of who we are is so much bigger that what we see, how those assumptions made us feel and how others feel when we make assumptions about them. My prayer is that our students develop empathy for others and pursue courageous conversations in God-honoring ways.
upporting Sour Female Athletics Programs “I’m excited for this opportunity and believe adding this position to the athletic department is a great next step to helping support female student-athletes and furthering the building of healthy relationships in our Charlotte Christian community.” Coach Naeher
One tangible way that we are working to make sure that we build unity on our campus and help all students feel a sense of belonging is on the athletic fields. A few years ago, a group of parents of female athletes met with Head of School Barry Giller, Athletic Director Andy Ross and Physical Education Department
Head Amanda Naeher to discuss the needs of female student-athletes and how to support them at Charlotte Christian. Coach Naeher was hired as the female athletics coordinator this past July. In this new role, Coach Naeher is charged with mentoring and supporting our female coaches and athletes and directly overseeing the girls’ volleyball, girls’ basketball and lacrosse programs. She also continues to serve as the lower school physical education teacher, P.E. department head and varsity ladies’ soccer head coach. With the addition of the new role, the athletic department is shifting its structure to utilize more athletic administration to help guide and support each sport. Assistant Athletic Director Jason Estep will now oversee boys’ soccer, baseball and track and field in addition to football. Director of Athletics Andy Ross will continue to oversee the remaining sport programs. When she first started coaching at the age of 22, Coach Naeher remembers not being sure what to do, how to
handle issues that came up as a coach and needing support and mentorship. Over the years, she has been blessed to find a group of women who support and encourage her that she can turn to for guidance when things are tough and to help celebrate the successes. God has created us to live in community and build up one another and support each other. This is the heart of the new role in supporting female athletes. Coach Naeher is working to create a network for our female student-athletes and coaches where they can build relationships and support each other as they compete in their sport. “Coach Naeher has already been a vital part of athletics at Charlotte Christian for years and I am confident this new role will allow her to have an even greater impact on our department and, ultimately, our student-athletes,” said Mr. Ross. “Her ability to build relationships and experience growing a program will be huge assets in the development of our female coaches and athletic programs.”
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ACADEMIC SPOTLIGHT
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2022 NATIONAL MERIT SEMIFINALIST AND COMMENDED SCHOLARS Congratulations to senior David Ntim who was named a semifinalist in the 67th annual National Merit®️ Scholarship Program. He was named in the group of approximately 16,000 students nationwide who were identified as semifinalists in the 2022 National Merit®️ Scholarship Program. David will now go on to compete for approximately 7,500 annual National Merit®️ Scholarships worth nearly $30 million that will be offered next spring. Five seniors were named Commended Students in the 2022 National Merit®️ Scholarship Program: Kendall Ficken, Luke Lancaster, Ginny Lash, Andrew Miles and Andrew Wallace.
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Behavioral and Social Sciences Category: 1st Place: Kendall James 2nd Place: Eden Davis 3rd Place: Claire Carson
Seniors David Ntim and Ryan Olivia Swilling were named College Board National African American Recognition Program Scholars based on their academic performance, PSAT score and their application they each submitted last spring.
Chemistry Category: 1st Place: Charlie Cataldo 2nd Place: Morgan Banks 3rd Place: Caroline Harkness
2021 AP SCHOLARS
JUNIOR SCORES MEDAL IN DECA COMPETITION Junior Emma Camper received a medal for her outstanding score on the DECA competition written exam. Emma was the district’s top scorer for the 100-question Business Administration Core exam! DECA’s competitive events involve both a written and interactive component that cover the areas of marketing, business management and administration, finance, and hospitality and tourism.
READING KNIGHTS SUCCESS Congratulations to the lower school students who participated in the first and second quarter Reading Knights program! The group read 4,109 books during the first quarter and were recognized before the varsity football home game. 5,132 books were read by 396 students for second quarter participation.
Eighth grade students participated in the annual middle school science fair before Christmas break. Students displayed their projects in the Huge Gallery, and judges included retired STEM professionals, CCS alumni, teachers and administrators. Some of these students will have the opportunity to continue to compete at the Regional North Carolina Science & Engineering Fair at UNC Charlotte Feb. 11-12, 2022. CONGRATULATIONS TO THESE WINNERS: Life Science Category: 1st Place: Anne Carlton 2nd Place: Charlotte Galbreath 3rd Place: Hannah Roddy
COLLEGE BOARD NATIONAL AFRICAN AMERICAN RECOGNITION PROGRAM SCHOLARS
CCS students and recent graduates earned Advanced Placement (AP) scholar distinctions. A total of 58 Advanced Placement honors were earned by students based on AP exams taken in May of 2021. Students who pass AP exams (3 or higher) after taking AP courses may be eligible to earn college credit based on their scores and the individual college/university requirements. 158 students took the AP exams in May 2021 with 79% receiving a score of three or higher.
2021 MIDDLE SCHOOL SCIENCE FAIR
Earth and Environmental Science Category: The Science Fair Award: Thomas Jokinen
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Physics and Mathematics Category: 1st Place: Libby Norvell 2nd Place: Keller Ulman 3rd Place: Drew Darling
MIDDLE SCHOOL CLUBS RETURN The middle school is excited for the opportunity to add clubs back into the schedule this school year. Clubs are led by teachers and they meet monthly during the school day. This year’s offerings include Bible journaling, sudoku and logic puzzles, American Sign Language, futsal, basketball, leadHERship, bucket beats, ukulele, environmental club, multicultural club and many more. Middle school is a great time for students to explore their personal interests and passions and clubs are just one more way to do so. Clubs foster a sense of community and belonging as students build relationships with their peers and teachers outside of a typical classroom setting. There is growing evidence that these types of extracurricular activities enhance academic learning and creative problem solving, encourage teamwork and develop leadership and social skills. We look forward to watching our students discover their interests, make new friends and have fun trying new and exciting activities.
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ATHLETIC SPOTLIGHT
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FALL & WINTER ATHLETIC SIGNINGS Congratulations to eight Charlotte Christian studentathletes who signed national letters of intent to participate in collegiate athletics. Moise Bennett University of Northern Colorado (track & field) Calvert Clark Clemson University (baseball) M.C. Eaton University of Virginia (softball) Wynne Gore NC State University (softball) Everette Harris NC State University (baseball) Rachel Noonan Miami University (soccer) Judd Utermark University of Mississippi (baseball) Holden Vance Wingate University (lacrosse)
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VARSITY BOYS’ SOCCER SENIORS LEAD THE WAY This year’s varsity boys’ soccer team set several Charlotte Christian soccer records as the Knights scored more goals than the previous seasons (43) and allowed the least amount of goals in the conference (16 in conference play). With more wins under their belt this season than in previous campaigns, the team continues to establish their style and brand of soccer. “This has been by far one of our most talented groups of players. It was great to make the second round of states this year,” said Varsity Boys’ Head Coach Donn Truax. Seniors Albert Bereguer, Habtamu McLain, Isaac Schmitke, Taylor Stolen and Charlie Williams led the way with major contributions. In addition to the players named to the all-state and all-conference teams, Habtamu, Isaac and Charlie were selected to the 2021 Men’s NCSCA All-Region Team for Region II. Goalkeeper Taylor Stolen finished the regular season with the best Goals Against Average (GAA) in conference, allowing only 16 regular season goals. “We will miss each of these seniors greatly and are thankful for their contributions on the field and personally in the program. I can’t wait to see what God’s going to do in and through these young men as they journey on from CCS to be an impact for Christ in the culture around them,” said Coach Truax.
CISAA PLAYER OF THE YEAR Congratulations to freshman Sophia Harris on being named the CISAA Player of the Year and named to the All-Observer Tennis First Team. She went 12-0 at the No. 1 singles position and tallied a 7-5 doubles record earning her first team all-conference and all-state accolades. She helped lead the Knights to their second best season in CCS tennis history of 9-4. Sophia is also a competitive tennis player outside of school and is currently ranked eighth in the state by tennisrecruiting.net and is a four star recruit. “Sophia was dominant in singles play and certainly an essential part of the CCS Lady Knights program,” said Varsity Ladies’ Tennis Head Coach Gary Brown. “She displays
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athleticism, savvy and an all-court game. She is a brilliant tactician on the court and has extraordinary power when she summons it.” Congratulations also to senior Savannah Perry who was named to the AllObserver Tennis Second Team.
LADY KNIGHTS VOLLEYBALL, REACHING NEW HEIGHTS The Lady Knights varsity volleyball team finished a season to remember with a record of 22-7 overall and 8-2 in conference play. The team finished second in the conference and topped out at fifth overall in NCISAA 4A high school volleyball. “This season was unforgettable. The team had many memorable accomplishments and standout players,” said Varsity Volleyball Head Coach Kathryn Hooks. The Lady Knights had an 11-game winning streak and all but two games were won in a three match shut out. Junior Connie Kofoed was named to both the allconference and all-state teams. Connie finished the season ranked 14th in hitting and 16th in kills in the state. Senior Caroline Natwick, junior Kai Carter and freshman Caroline Noonan were all selected to the all-conference second team.
ALL-CONFERENCE/ALL-STATE HONOREES Congratulations to the following student-athletes on earning CISAA All-Conference and NCISAA All-State recognition for fall sports. ALL-CONFERENCE Cheerleading: First Team Cassidy Levinsky Virginia Pletner Shelby Violette Second Team Sophia Abig Sophie Lillie Avery Rash Kennedi Thompson Cross Country: Second Team Kendall Ficken Football: First Team Hudson Jones Kyron Jones Micah Gilbert Danny Stevens Drew Waldrop Grant Tucker Second Team Brock Benton Gavin Major Ryan Henley
Soccer: First Team Charlie Williams Isaac Schmitke
ALL-STATE Football: First Team Hudson Jones Drew Waldrop
Second Team Habtamu McLain Albert Berenguer Taylor Stolen
Second Team Kyron Jones Micah Gilbert Danny Stevens Grant Tucker
Tennis: First Team Sophia Harris* Savannah Perry
Honorable Mention Brock Benton
Second Team Lilly McNally
Soccer: Charlie Williams
Volleyball: First Team Connie Kofoed
Tennis: Sophia Harris Savannah Perry
Second Team Kai Carter Caroline Natwick Caroline Noonan
Volleyball: Connie Kofoed
*also CISAA Player of the Year
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FINE ARTS SPOTLIGHT
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FESTIVAL IN THE PARK Each year CCS visual artists of all ages participate in one of Charlotte’s richest art traditions, Festival in the Park. Held annually at Freedom Park, this fun, family-friendly event spotlights the regional arts scene with a wide variety of visual arts and crafts, performance arts, and live music. These twodimensional pieces represent a wide range of grade level, media, and technique. Scan the QR code to see artwork from the CCS student artists who were chosen as winners in their respective divisions.
TRI-M MUSIC HONOR SOCIETY AND NATIONAL ART HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTEES Thirty-six upper school music students were inducted into the TRI-M Music Honor Society. Members of this honor society must maintain a B average, with an A in their music classes, and complete a minimum of two hours of service in music each semester. TRI-M has served this at Operation Christmas Child and performed Christmas carols at the Billy Graham Library. Thirty-four upper school art students who were inducted into the National Art Honor Society. Members of this honor society must be enrolled in a visual art class, maintain a B average, with an A in their art class, and complete service requirements. The NAHS students hosted an annual Christmas art sale in December and divided the proceeds between a local and international mission.
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NCTC PLAY FESTIVAL Congratulations to our ACT 1 cast and crew for their performance at the annual regional NCTC one act play festival. The team was awarded the following recognitions for their performance of an original piece called Cyrano Or: The White Plume by Edmond Rostand adapted by Matthew Minnicino: • Theatre Arts Award: Excellence in Production Design • Excellence in Directing • Excellence in Ensemble Acting • Honorable Mention Distinguished Play ACT 1 is Charlotte Christian’s upper school auditiononly competition drama team and is directed by Ms. Claire Hilton, director of theatre. This year’s team members are all sophomores: Thomas Albee, Rachel Baker, Karsen Betzold, Ruthie Caswell, Whitney Johnson and Jeffery Wilson.
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2021 NCAIS HONOR BAND The following middle and upper school band students were nominationed to represent Charlotte Christian School at the 2021 NCAIS Honor Band: junior Caroline Crews, alto saxophone, freshman Eva Nieto, trumpet, eighth grader Savannah Norvell, trumpet. Students from across the state are selected each year to participate in this merit-based clinic. Independent school band students from across the state gathered for a two-day intensive clinic to learn new skills and make music in a collaborative setting at Catawba College.
BLUMENTHAL PERFORMING ARTS JUNIOR AMBASSADOR Junior Lily Kate Snyder is participating in the Blumenthal Performing Arts Junior Ambassador program. This unique opportunity provides an excellent educational and hands-on volunteer experience, beyond-the-stage, in the performing arts. Lily Kate will serve as a volunteer theater usher in Blumenthal theaters, attend a series of seminars about career opportunities in the performing arts and develop new networks of peers and professionals in the performing arts world.
THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER: THE MUSICAL On Nov. 11 and 13 a group of our middle and upper school students presented The Best Christmas Pageant Ever: The Musical in Alkire Auditorium in front of a live audience. This musical followed the outrageous shenanigans of the Herdman siblings, or “the worst kids in the history of the world.” “I have been richly blessed by the depth of talent and heart in this cross divisional cast as we have spent time talking about why the Herdmans behave the way they do, examined the actions of the ‘perfect little town,’ and asked what if that town chose compassion and curiosity over passing judgement?” said Director Claire Hilton (‘11).
CHRISTMAS CONCERTS This year’s Christmas at Christian concert and performance season kicked off with the middle and upper school orchestra concert followed by the Service of Lessons and Carols performed by our middle and upper school choir students and the middle and upper school band students shared their holiday music. The lower school hosted two Christmas chapels and the junior kindergarten students put on a live Nativity performance.
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COMMUNITY
Topping Out Charlotte Christian School hosted a Topping Out Ceremony along with Rodgers Builders for the new Middle School Building that is slated to open in August 2022 for the 2022-23 school year. Participating in the topping out ceremony was Head of School Barry Giller; Board of Trustee Chair Brad Van Hoy; Middle School Principal Brooke Morgan; seventh grade student Andre Cox; senior and head prefect Olivia Jackson; Will Myer, Kelton Carpenter and Donald Alston of Rodgers Builders, general contractor; and donors. The ceremony celebrated the topping out or installation of the final piece of structure to the roof of the building. Charlotte Christian students and community members signed the beams that will be used in the construction of the building. “We are grateful for this new addition to our campus and for God’s provision through the generosity of our donors,” shared Head of School Barry Giller. “We appreciate the relationships we have built over the last eight years with Rodgers Builders and LS3P in partnering with us to advance the footprint of our master campus plan. The Graham Middle School Building was the center of campus and our longest standing building and one that served us well for just under five decades. Our students are excited for this new building that will provide space for innovative learning in the middle school.”
Dr. Gary Chapman and Dr. Shannon Warden
visit CCS
Dr. Gary Chapman, well-known author of The 5 Love Languages®, and Dr. Shannon Warden, licensed counselor and author, came to Charlotte Christian in November to discuss their recent book The DIY Guide to Building a Family that Lasts. Dr. Chapman and Dr. Warden shared practical tools for transforming home life and dramatically improving family’s culture, answering the question, Is it really possible
to have the home life you want with the people you love? Charlotte Christian parents as well as parents from the community were invited to this event to partner on the journey of parenting. CCS parent Genevieve Williams shared about the night, “Dr. Chapman was insightful. We all lead busy lives- he made us stop, think and reflect on our parenting and family life in a positive way.” 20 CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
2021 Homecoming 2021 was a success! Congratulations to seniors Abigail Atwater and Gavin Peach who were crowned this year’s queen and king. More than 200 alumni and their families enjoyed the pregame tailgate and CCS alum Joy Farley (‘08) was recognized on the field as the 2021 Alumni Service Award recipient. Members from the classes of 1990, 1991, 2000, 2010 and 2011 met throughout Homecoming and Thanksgiving weekends to catch up with their classmates. Please reach out the Reid Fronk, director of alumni relations, at reid.fronk@charchrist.com if you would like to plan or assist in next year’s reunions.
Save the Date for Homecoming 2022
FRIDAY, OCT. 21, 2022
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THE CAMPAIGN FOR THE ANNUAL FUND AND THE MASTER CAMPUS PLAN
DEVELOPMENT
Each year, parents, grandparents, friends, alumni and alumni families contribute to the Annual Fund at Charlotte Christian. This important campaign provides ongoing support to our campus that allows us to serve our faculty, students and community. Representing 2-3% of our operating budget, the Annual Fund touches every facet of our campus including enhanced security, improved technology, professional development for our faculty and campus beautification. Your Annual Fund gift is vital to the mission of Charlotte Christian School. Through your support, we are able to provide our students with academic excellence in a Christ-centered environment. Read what our students have to say about how your gifts have made a difference to them.
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“I love Charlotte Christian because the enrichments are fun! I really like music because I can sing new songs and art because I can use my imagination. I want to be a lifer because I can spend time with friends and stay with them until the 12th grade.” - Olivia Ogburn, grade 1 “I like Charlotte Christian because we are all one big family and love and support each other. I think of joy when I think of Charlotte Christian because all of my friends and teachers are here.” - Holden Grace, grade 5 “What I love about Charlotte Christian is the They teachers. are super kind, and supportive always there to help when you need them. In one word I would describe Charlotte Christian as community - we are all here as one community and love each other.” - Charlie Cataldo, grade 8 “I love Charlotte Christian because JK-12 the of community! I get to interact with the other grades, play a sport, create in visual arts and cheer at football games....it is just a fun community. When I think about Charlotte Christian I think about the word foundation. We are JK12 and it prepares you for college. Every grade you expand more about what you learn and do. - Lexi Van Hoy, grade 8
“I love CCS for how supportive our teachers and coaches are for academics our athletics. and They are all very supportive if we are going through anything and are there to help us.” - Micah Gilbert, grade 10 “I love Charlotte Christian because of how it feels like a community and how the teachers and the students care about you as you journey at CCS and your walk with God. One word I would use to describe Charlotte Christian is inclusive. Whether it is in classes or extracurriculars, I feel like there are a bunch of people who want to get to know you as a person and want to embrace our differences even though we might not all be the same in different areas of life.” - Zaliyah Emmanuel, grade 11 “I love Charlotte Christian because of the unity I have made with my closest friends and the growth in my faith through the Bible department and the amazing teachers we have here at CCS. I would describe Charlotte Christian as rigorous. Throughout my four years in high school it has not only been challenging but the teachers have really helped every step of the way.” - Noah Cannon, grade 12
Scan the QR code with your phone to give today!
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Upper School Building Ready for 2023-24 School Year Upper School Construction Timeline
June 2022
2022-23 school year
august 2023
Upper School Building Demolition
Upper School Classes in Cottages
New Upper School Building Opens
As soon as construction is complete on the new Middle School Building this coming summer, attention will be turned to the new Upper School Building. Back-to-back building construction was made possible thanks in part to the generous support of our community and allows for the school to utilize shared resources such as the cottages for both middle and upper school students during this time. Construction will begin in the summer of 2022 for the new building with plans to open it in August of the 2023-24 school year. For more information on either of these projects, please contact Director of Development Sara Reid at sara.reid@charchrist.com.
The two-story building will include: • • • • • • •
Around 30,000 square feet 15 classrooms and four science labs Broadcast room with production office Dedicated learning space and offices for the Academic Services Program Office space for director of diversity and belonging Office space and meeting room for spiritual life Additional common areas
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
2021
Charlotte Christian School
ALUMNI SERVICE AWARD
Joy Farley Class of 2008
The Alumni Service Award honors an alum who has consistently provided exemplary volunteer service to Charlotte Christian School, going above and beyond in devotion to the school. The award is given on an annual basis to an alum whose actions demonstrate outstanding personal service and commitment to the school in promoting either the mission of CCS and/or the CCS Alumni Association.
The 2021 Alumni Service Award recipient is Joy Farley who graduated from Charlotte Christian in 2008 and is now going into her 10th year professionally in real estate. Her goals focus on building and selling new homes and uplifting, inspiring and encouraging women. Additionally, she is the founder of MADE FOR MORE, an online community of women who exist to see their full potential and help empower other women to do the same. Their slogan is “When one woman wins we all win”!
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Ms. Farley is an inaugural member of the Charlotte Christian alumni board and is so excited to continue being a part of all the growth across the CCS community. One of her favorite memories is speaking to Mrs. Poole’s class of girls during J-Term. Ms. Farley is one of seven kids who are all doing amazing things at the highest of levels from the NFL, to sales, and the arts. Family comes first in her life and she is always her sibling’s biggest cheerleader.
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Charlotte Christian School
Austin Young Class of 2001
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD
The Distinguished Alumni Award is presented to an alum who has made outstanding contributions to God’s Kingdom through their field of work, demonstrated a heart for Christ as a servant leader in their community and shown exceptional dedication to Charlotte Christian School.
The 2021 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient is Austin Young who graduated from Charlotte Christian in 2001. As a student, Mr. Young was heavily involved within the Charlotte Christian community as a National Honor Society member, a representative on the Student Council and a varsity letterman. He went on to study engineering at North Carolina State University and graduated in 2006. He married Kayti and they have four children ranging in ages from 4-11. He thanks his mom and dad for their dedication to the Lord and for raising him to follow Jesus and his brother, Jon, who also graduated from CCS in 2006. Mr. Young and his family have a deep desire to see those in need helped, they love Jesus and serve Him wherever He asks them to go.
CLASS NOTES Send your alumni news to: alumni@charchrist.com
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Morgan Shrader is a sophomore at Pfeiffer University and a starter on the volleyball team. She helped lead the Falcons to their first ever conference tournament appearance this season.
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Ansley Corrigan graduated from Auburn University in August of 2021 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and focus in production. She started a new job with WTVM in Columbus, Ga. as a technical media producer and director.
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Kennedy Manyika recently began a new role as an associate worship director at Lake Forest Church Davidson. Emma VanDeVelde is a podcast content manager for Moody Radio and is the executive producer on a new narrativebased podcast that will premiere in the spring of 2022. She also hosts a podcast called Narrow Way to Broadway which aims to document many artists’ journeys while navigating the world of the arts. The episodes are designed to discuss the collision of faith and theater and to inspire the thespian and non-thespian, whether of a particular faith or not. Narrow Way to Broadway is a place for encouragement as well as a place to challenge and discuss issues affecting our hearts, minds and homes.
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Connor Clavin married Jordan Chapman on July 10, 2021. The couple currently resides in Norfolk, Va., where he is a Lieutenant Junior Grade on the USS George H. W. Bush and she is a pediatric community health nurse.
Jeb Blazevich moved to Atlanta, Ga. with his wife, Addy, to continue his career as an employee benefit broker to help companies of all sizes navigate the healthcare system. He enjoys living closer to Charlotte! He also volunteers with an anti-trafficking non-profit organization that is run by his wife and has seen the light of Christ shine in the darkest of circumstances.
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Michael Drury has dedicated this past year to helping those in need including in multiple villages across the Congo. He looks forward to being stateside again in time to attend the next reunion to share his experiences.
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Ellie Green Montgomery is a technical project manager at The Bible Project working with software developers and product leads to add features to their website and other technical platforms. This project provides a unique, creative and insightful way to share the Gospel.
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CLASS NOTES
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Rebecca Cofield Ashurst and her husband welcomed a baby girl, Elizabeth Reese, on Oct. 8, 2021. Rebecca graduated from nurse practitioner school this past spring and is living in Birmingham, Ala. with her family. Tyler Simmons (‘11) and Celeste Vitez Simmons (‘12) welcomed a baby boy, John Tyler, on Nov. 13, 2021. Austyn Durden Suits and her husband, Stephen, welcomed a baby girl, Olivia Ann, on June 22, 2021.
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Kelby Brown Jr. is one-third of the way through his intern year at UNC Hospital! His wife, Angel, is holding down the family while also working full-time for United Way of the Greater Triangle. Their daughters, Etta and Vanessa, are best friends! Blaydes Moore recently transitioned law firms to Stewart Law, P.A., on East Boulevard in Charlotte where he continues to specialize in wills, trusts and estate administration.
Mallory Severs Perks (‘10) and Kristian Perks (‘12) welcomed a baby boy, Miles, on Aug. 5, 2021. David Weaver recently opened Charlotte’s newest disc golf course at Eastway Park. He was given the opportunity by the Charlotte Disc Golf Club to design and build a new disc golf course at the park that has recently undergone a huge renovation over the last several years. Their local team of volunteers have committed more than 1,000 hours on the course that will feature an 18-hole layout as well as a short nine-hole overlay catered to kids and novice level players.
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Alexandria Kemp Baker and her husband, Austin, welcomed a baby girl, Ellison “Elle” Ruby, on Oct. 8, 2021. They are thanking the Lord for their tiny blessing! Ben Thompson and his wife, Alexis, welcome their second child, a daughter, Evelyn, on Nov. 1, 2021. She joins big brother, Pierce, who is three years old.
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Jared Bard and his wife welcomed a third child, a daughter, Ellis Anne, on July 3, 2021. She joins big brothers Graham and Oliver.
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Kyle Benjamin and his wife, Amy, welcomed their third child, Emerson Greer, in January 2021. Kyle now serves as the vice president of marketing and communications for Carson-Newman University following a career as a news anchor and motorsports journalist.
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Chris Carrara and his wife, Emily, welcomed their third child and first girl, Emilia Rose, on Aug. 31, 2021. Zak Kamm earned his MBA from Lee University and is currently working as a trainer for a financial tech company. He could not have completed this honor without the support of his amazing wife and three awesome kids.
ALUMNI ALBUM
Morgan Shrader (‘20)
Ansley Corrigan (‘17)
Alexandria Kemp Baker (‘07) Ben Thompson (‘07)
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Emma VanDeVelde (‘15)
Jared Bard (‘06)
Jeb Blazevich (‘14)
Connor Calvin (‘14)
Kyle Benjamin (‘04)
Ellie Green Montgomery (‘12)
Chris Carrara (’03)
Lindsay Vance Smith is an attorney practicing at Tharrington Smith, LLP, in Raleigh. Her practice focuses exclusively on providing representation to local boards of education and public school districts across the state of North Carolina.
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Derik Timmerman just published his first book, The 40 Laws of NonProfit Impact!
Carol Ann Kaur Whitt married Rupinder Singh Gill on Aug. 28, 2020 in a small ceremony at their home near Saxapahaw, N.C. On Aug. 21, 2021 they celebrated their nuptials with friends and family at The Addison Farm in Elon, N.C. Carol Ann is the vice president of product development and sales at American Fiber & Finishing and Rupe is a partner attorney at Walker Lambe, a business and estate planning firm in Durham. When not working, they enjoy spending time with their family and traveling.
Members of the class of 1992 gathered for their annual reunion this past spring. Pictured are Peaches May, Leslie Fogle Dunnegan, Matt Franklin, Todd Fuller, Todd Woolery, Stacey Evans, Sharon Rice Everett, Cynthia Stone Westbrook, Suzanne McClintock Smith, John Knapp, Chet Smith and Jason Johnson.
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Robin Herrin Eberhardt graduated from Appalachian State University in 1995 with a master’s degree in industrial and organizational psychology and human resource management. She previously worked as a corporate employer relations for a number of years. She currently lives in Atlanta, Ga. with her husband, Corey. They have two daughters: Mallorie, recently graduated from the University of Georgia and is starting nursing school this summer, and Abbie, is a freshman at the University of Georgia.
Rebecca Cofield Ashurst (‘11)
Tyler Simmons (‘11) & Celeste Vitez Simmsons (‘12)
Austyn Durden Suits (‘11)
Zak Kamm (‘01)
Derik Timmerman (‘98)
Carol Ann Kaur Whitt (‘92)
Kelby Brown Jr. (‘10)
David Scott Weed lives in the Charlotte area and works full-time at MUSC Health-Lancaster. David is also a published author having his first novel, Whispering Bones, published last year and having been sold in seven countries. His latest novel, They Only Come At Night, was recently released and has already been purchased in the U.S. and Japan. David writes supernatural thrillers that use fiction to reach people who would never set foot in a church.
Blaydes Moore (‘10)
Robin Herrin Eberhardt (‘90)
Mallory Severs Perks (‘10) & Kristian Perks (‘12)
David Scott Weed (‘90)
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2020-21
ANNUAL REPORT CHRIST-CENTERED. COLLEGE PREPARATORY. EDUCATING THE WHOLE CHILD.
2020-21 OPERATING REVENUES
tuition (net) 93.8% contributions
3.2%
other fees/revenues
3.1%
2020-21 OPERATING EXPENSES Salaries/Benefits
65.5%
Plant/Operations
26.0%
Instructional Costs
3.5%
Interest Expense
2.7%
General Admin.
2.3%
The financial results for Charlotte Christian School are audited on an annual basis by an external audit firm and presented to the board of trustees for review. A copy of the audited financial statements or the IRS 990 filing may be obtained by sending a written request to the address below. Questions on the financial data in this Annual Report or on other aspects of the financial operations of Charlotte Christian School may be directed to the chief financial officer. Charlotte Christian School | Attention: Terry Efird, Chief Financial Officer | 7301 Sardis Road Charlotte, NC 28270 | terry.efird@charchrist.com
CCS Employee Fun Day | Sept. 27, 2021
NET ASSETS (at June 30)
TOTAL DEBT OUTSTANDING (at June 30)
2019
2019
$29.5
2020
$32.4
2021
$39.9
MILLIONS
$8.2
2020
$20.0
2021
$20.0
MILLIONS In December 2019 the school structured a long term debt package for $20 million at a weighted average rate of 2.7% to refinance existing debt and to support future campus construction activity.
ENROLLMENT TRENDS
CONTRIBUTIONS - CASH RECEIPTS
2018-19
2019-20
2020-21
2018-19
Lower school
411
414
422
Capital $1,177,043 Improvements
$928,131 $3,120,746
Middle school
276
282
295
Annual Fund
$551,572
$630,336
$614,087
upper school
413
417
417
$7,749
$11,177
$7,614
1,100
1,113
1,134
retention
95%
96%
94%
Endowment Gifts Parent Partnership
$84,293
$88,166
$48,422
diversity
21%
21%
19%
$293,709
$418,952
$324,220
total enrollment
*Enrollment trends based on August data.
Miscellaneous Total Cash Receipts
2019-20
2020-21
$2,114,366 $2,076,762 $4,115,090
2020-21 Annual Fund Giving New Curriculum
• Purchased new STEM kits and math curriculum in the lower school. • Purchased new curriculum in the middle school for Latin and in the upper school for Chemistry, Physics, French and Latin. • Invested in a social and emotional curriculum called Character Strong for lower and middle school counselors to support our younger students.
Co-Curricular Purchases
• Purchased virtual platform subscriptions to aid in showcasing student work online - Kunstmatrix to digitally display artwork in a professional looking virtual art gallery and UpBeat Music app that provided student musicians a virtual platform to collaborate in real time and create multi-track performances to share. • Provided outdoor spring concert series with a “Pops in the Park” feel to substitute for live indoor performances. • Expanded orchestra instrument inventory by purchasing a cello and cello rack. • Purchased new sheet music collection to support the addition of the new upper school Honors Chamber Ensemble class. • Purchased two field turf sweepers and an athletic trainer cart. • Replaced basketball goals in Lamb/Johnson Gym. • Installed a new high jump pit. • Upgraded equipment in the weight room. • Upgraded the speaker system at the athletic stadium press box.
SUPPORT OF TECHNOLOGY INITIATIVE
• Replaced student MacBooks for grades 9-11 in the upper school and purchased new iPad carts for lower school classrooms and ASP. • Upgraded additional interactive display technology upgrades to eight classrooms in the lower and middle school. • Purchased TV for Huge Gallery to provide upgraded video capabilities for overflow parent seating and professional development opportunities. • Purchased four new 3D printers for middle and upper school to be utilized by engineering and robotics classes.
SUPPORT OF SECURITY IMPROVEMENTS
• Purchased two-way radios for campus management and security. • Continued security upgrades by installing new cameras. • Enhanced security alert system to provide security intercom system with improved coverage.
ADDITIONAL PURCHASES
• Displayed more than 70 years of CCS history via a History Wall located in the dining hall. • Dining hall equipment upgraded with dishwasher and convection oven. • Installed LS/MS spirit rock to celebrate student birthdays and milestones. • Installed more bottle fill stations across campus. • Purchased stools for upper school chemistry lab. • Planted trees along the hill at the Early Education Building to provide protective coverage.
2020-21 Capital giving Master Campus Plan
In June of 2021, construction began on our new Middle School Building, the next phase of our master campus plan, with plans to open the new building in August of the 2022-23 school year. In preparation for construction, cottages were installed in the back part of campus as well as building materials were recycled from the old Middle School Building - LED lighting went to the Early Education Building, middle school restrooms were renovated with partitions, cabinets added to the middle and upper school art room and HVAC coolant was removed and stored.
Charlotte Christian hosted the third annual 24 Hour Giving Day Challenge on March 9, 2021 to fund multiple campus improvements. There was an incredible response with 147 donors giving a record $55,465 to this campaign.
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CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
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SCRAPBOOK
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1.
Lower School Gingerbread Houses
2.
Upper School Fall Frenzy
3.
Middle School Pink Day
4.
Junior Kindergarten Nativity
5.
Upper School Windy Gap
6.
Middle School Windy Gap
7.
Grades 3-5 Christmas Chapel
8.
Lower School New Gaga Ball Pit
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Lower School S.L.A.M. Week
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First Day of School
11.
Upper School College Applications
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Workshop 12.
Upper School Physics Rocket Project
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First Day of School
14.
Lower School STEM Mad Science Day
15.
Upper School Fall Frenzy
16.
Middle School Marble Roller coaster Project
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Grades K-2 Christmas Chapel
18.
Upper School Teaching Fellows
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7301 Sardis Road Charlotte, NC 28270 (704) 366-5657 Fax: (704) 366-5678
24 HOUR
GIVING CHALLENGE CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
JOIN US! tuesday, march 8, 2022 $50,000
Our goal is to raise to go towards campus beautification, enhanced security and continued technology improvements.
FOLLOW US ON www.charlottechristian.com
