WINGSPAN | Volume 2 | Issue 3 | Spring 2016 by Maranatha Christian Schools

Department

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

Department Spring 2016 | Volume 2, Issue 3 EDITOR IN CHIEF Francine Good

PRODUCTION MANAGER Kathy Wall

COPY EDITORS Francine Good Kathy Wall Soncee Partida Nicole Shepard

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jess Hetherington Superintendent Pete Plotnik High School Principal Bryce Forrester Junior High Principal Mary Cook Elementary Principal Patrice Andrews Director of Early Education Nate Jackson Director of Biblical Studies Steve Whitley Director of Athletics Jayne Howard Director of Performing Arts Autumn Gray Director of Curriculum Doris Thurman Director of Admissions Francine Good Director of Marketing | Development Kathy Wall Marketing Coordinator Brigit Sheng and Katie Sherpbier Co-PAC Presidents

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Trevor Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Keefe Johnnie Voegtley Nicole Shepard Tom McCormick Carey Schumacher Rachel Miller Micki Stark

GRAPHIC DESIGN Nicole Shepard 4

A Life Transformed

Destination Panama

Eagles Spread Their Wings â&#x20AC;&#x201C; College Map

Rocket Science

Campus Life

DEPARTMENTS

FEATURES

Curriculum

High School

Junior High

Elementary

Preschool

Development

Marketing

Admissions

Athletics

Performing Arts

PAC

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

Jess Hetherington (as a college senior) gazes over the rolling hills and bustling city of Edinburgh, Scotland in 1998. It was around this time when he discovered a distinct calling and purpose for his life.

“FOR THE FIRST Department TIME IN MY LIFE, I WAS PRAYED FOR, MENTORED, AND ENCOURAGED TO SEE AND EXPERIENCE GOD AND HIS TRUTHS THROUGH EVERY SUBJECT, SOCIAL EVENT, AND RELATIONSHIP.”

“You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength, and all your mind.’ And, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.” -Luke 10:27

grew up in the sunny, coastal town of Carlsbad, and attended what was considered to be one of the very best school districts in San Diego. Throughout the entire duration of my formative educational years I was watched over, managed, and encouraged to be driven and successful in whatever I set out to accomplish. Unfortunately, I was never taught to know and understand that God was Creator, Sustainer, and Redeemer by any of my teachers or through any of my textbooks – since my early education was entirely secular. Beyond the pressures of academic life, I also had to contend with

the ‘dreaded’ social life. Competition and insecurities oftentimes fueled the day-to-day drama, and trust between my peers was just a word. To put it simply, an authentic and nurturing community was nowhere to be found! The Babylonian social undercurrent in which I was immersed carried quite the education; teaching me many things well beyond my parents’ training, classroom instruction and prescribed state standards. This ‘hidden’ curriculum (ever-present, but never fully recognized) impacted my heart and mind powerfully in a way that was under the radar but life-altering. The things that I learned on the

bus, in the hallway, in the locker room and on the sports field could never be defined as ‘neutral’ or separate from my learning environment. It was all one big learning experience that carried agendas, ethics, and morality. Simply put, it was not a Christian worldview. Yet, it affected and carried deep implications in my outlook of life and upon the way I viewed myself. It was not until I went off to a private Christian University on an athletic scholarship that my spiritual life and entire perspective of the world was radically transformed. I will go so far as to call my time in college a ‘spiritual and worldview revolution.’

Message from the Superintendent and talents in ways I could never have dreamed possible. For the first time in my life, I was prayed for, menMy life has been forever changed for the good – thanks tored, and encouraged to see and experience God and to the power of God and Christian education. I am so His Truths through every subject, social event, and passionate about this transforming relationship. Whether I was in my power and the potential it carries, that British Literature class or my Biology I have made it my calling and mission class, every professor I encountered “I am confident God in life. My hope and prayer is that all carried a passion to express the reality is touching lives of us will come to know and experiand intimacy of a loving God through ence our own unique gifts and callthe entire scope and sequence of in a powerful way ing in Christ. I know that my life, as their curriculum. Because of this, I was well as my family’s life, continues to personally introduced to a powerful, every day on this experience this same transformation creative, intimate and redeeming God. here at MCS...along with many others. campus, because This life-changing transformation began I am confident that God is touching to accelerate in my life even more so I see and hear the lives in a powerful way every day on when I began to see a divine correlation this campus, because I see and hear between all of my studies and a powtestimonies day the testimonies day after day. When erful God-narrative that was emerging. I after day.” I look out upon our campus I can was starting to understand more about fully agree and resonate with 3 John 1:4, God’s love, redemption, reconciliation “I have no greater joy than to and adoption. I realized that I was a part hear that my children are of God’s plan, and that He had a distinct ‘call and purpose’ walking in the truth.” for my life. I was astonished to learn that I didn’t need to be a pastor, priest, or third-world missionary to please God or to be used by Him. Moreover, I discovered I was uniquely crafted and I had Jess Hetherington with wife special talents that God had entrustCourtney, son Owen, new baby ed in me. He called me to partner girl Marley, and daughters Waverly and Hensley. (December 2015) with Him to employ these gifts

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

THE PROOF IS IN THE “IF I HAD SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN,

I WOULD SEND THEM HERE. YOU GET A LOT OF BANG FOR YOUR BUCK!” -Al Baeder, Chairman of the ASCI Accreditation Team ————————— NOTE: Mr. Baeder, has served in the field of education for 50 years, and on accreditation teams for 30 years. His endorsement is very much valued, considering his wealth of knowledge and broad background in assessing exceptional learning environments.

Director of Curriculum Autumn Gray is the perfect person to testify about our continued pursuit of excellence, having been employed at MCS for 20 years. According to Autumn, our original accreditation was granted by ACSI in 2001. Since that time, our staff has diligently maintained records and curriculum documents–while participating in a variety of professional development opportunities and collaborating on strategic plans. The result is a ministry that is current, relevant and intentional. Read on and learn more about the ‘nuts and bolts’ of building a transformational school through good planning and well thought out strategies every step of the way. I love history! I love to pause, look back and focus on all that God has done. I had an opportunity to do so this past winter when I was given the assignment to lead our school through the Mid-term Accreditation Process. This process included gathering evidence of all that has happened at MCS over the last 3 years, and reporting on the methods we used to address the four major recommendations that were given to us in 2013. Last February, a team from ACSI and WASC came to visit our school to gain first-hand “…THEY WERE BLOWN AWAY! experience about our program. After a visit with our teachers, administrators, THEY COULDN’T the school board, and a student comBELIEVE ALL THAT HAS mittee – they were blown away! The BEEN ACCOMPLISHED team couldn’t believe all that has been accomplished since their last visit. Here SINCE THEIR LAST VISIT!” are some highlights that were especially impressive to them: the new High School building, our intentional style of instruction, the extent of the professional development of our teachers and staff, the number of AP courses in our High School, and the size and caliber of our Performing Arts Program, to mention a few. If you have the time, I would encourage you to read the entire report here. It is quite impressive to see all of the blessings the Lord has provided us over the last three years! As you can imagine, this process was a collaborative effort. I would like to personally thank parents Melissa Van Dyken and Katie Scherpbier for their help in hosting and feeding all of those involved. I would also like to thank Jake Bronson, our ASB president for leading the student group who met with the team, as well as John Cook, our School Board President for all of the hours he has invested in updating our bylaws and procedures. Finally, my heartfelt thanks to each and every teacher, Preschool through 12th grade, who contributes everyday behind the scenes to make our school look great – the proof is in the Accreditation Report! *Maranatha Christian Schools became dually accredited through both the ACSI (Association of Christian Schools) and WASC (Western Association of Schools and Colleges) associations in 2001.

ACCREDITATION REPORT Autumn Gray, Director of Curriculum

HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE REPORT

The committee commends the School Board and Administration for:

2. COMPLETING A DETAILED PLAN FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE NEW HIGH SCHOOL BUILDING PARTIALLY FUNDED THROUGH A 3-YEAR CAPITAL CAMPAIGN.

1. DEVELOPING A FORMAL 3-YEAR STRATEGIC PLAN AND REORGANIZING THE MARKETING AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENTS.

3. UPGRADING ALL AREAS OF TECHNOLOGY – FACILITATING A LARGE VARIETY OF SCHOOL OPERATIONAL FUNCTIONS.

4. PROVIDING SIGNIFICANT PROFESSIONAL GROWTH OPPORTUNITIES.

5. CREATING PROCEDURAL DOCUMENTS THAT WILL ALLOW THE SCHOOL TO FUNCTION SMOOTHLY & WITHIN STANDARDIZED PROCEDURAL GUIDELINES.

FOCUS ON MCS FAMILIES Don’t miss this glowing letter from the Accreditation Team, who were so impressed by the MCS Community, they made it a point to include these accolades in their final report. The Visiting Committee would like to thank the School Board, Administration, faculty, staff, parents and students for a great experience in this brief mid-term visit accreditation process.

It would be impossible not to be impressed by the level of d edication that seems apparent at every level of the school family. Everyone we met shared in an open and gracious manner. It was delightful to spend time with students who so enthusiastically embraced the philosophy of the school and expressed it so clearly through their daily lives. It was clear that there was no fear or hesitation in sharing with us, further giving evidence to the fact that improvement as the school moves forward is a desire of the entire school community.

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

Nate Jackson, Director of Biblical Studies and Discipleship

THROUGHOUT OUR HIGH SCHOOL CHAPELS THIS SPRING, WE HAVE EMPHASIZED THE IMPORTANCE OF CLEARLY SHARING THE GOSPEL OF JESUS CHRIST TO THOSE WHO ARE LOST. Solomon says in Proverbs 11:30, “...he that wins souls is wise.” Our students have come to recognize the need, God’s command, and the privilege of sharing God’s plan of salvation. What better way to help our students put that into practice, than by offering a trip to Panama where they could go two-by-two (along with a translator) into classrooms throughout many schools in Panama, to make clear the things of God through His Son Jesus Christ! The Apostle articulates the following in the tenth chapter of Romans: 12

“For everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in Him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!”…So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:13-17, ESV)

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

Our students began to meet with High School Youth Pastor Trevor O’Keefe and his staff last October. Since then, they have been hard at work, preparing to share their personal stories and learning how to present the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Due to the large number of students who signed up for the trip, the group had to be split in half each day before heading out toward separate schools. This allowed our students to actually reach thousands of Panamanian students with the Gospel throughout the week.

“THE STUDENTS IN THE SCHOOLS WE VISITED WERE SO RESPONSIVE TO THE GOSPEL. THE FIELDS WERE RIPE & READY FOR HARVEST!” -Trevor O’Keefe | High School Pastor Trevor O’Keefe commented, “So much of the time we can view the world, even our own neighborhoods, and have the opinion that people don’t want to hear about Jesus or have any interest in allowing Him to be Lord of their life. Jesus however seemed to see things differently when He told His disciples that the fields were ripe and ready to be harvested. We saw firsthand not only does Jesus see things 14

differently from the way we do, He sees them as they really are! The students in the schools we visited were so responsive to the Gospel. The fields were ripe and ready for harvest!”

Department

Our team saw hundreds of Panamanian students, school teachers and administrators respond to the message of the Gospel and personal testimonies of our students. Pastor Trevor O’Keefe recounted a day when a few of our students were sharing their testimonies to a small group of 7th and 8th graders. “The classroom seemed non-responsive, and our students were beginning to look uncomfortable. Still, they continued to faithfully and meticulously share their stories and the Gospel, and even took the time to lead students in a simple prayer to profess their faith in Jesus. The class was wrapping up when a young girl stood up and walked towards the translator who stood with our students. The young girl motioned for our translator to stoop down to hear her quiet whisper. Half way through their private conversation she had to pause to wipe the tears that were now streaming down her cheeks. She told him that the stories the students had shared were a perfect representation of her struggles as well as those of her classmates. She continued to whisper, explaining the reason why she and her classmates were seemingly unresponsive. She said God was addressing the secret hurts and issues of their lives through our students. The only English we heard from this young girl was when she looked up, her cheeks still damp with tears, in order to look our three students in the eye and simply say – ‘Thank You.’”

“…SHE LOOKED UP, HER CHEEKS STILL DAMP WITH TEARS, IN ORDER TO LOOK OUR THREE STUDENTS IN THE EYE AND SIMPLY SAY – ‘THANK YOU.’”

WATCH THE PANAMA HIGHLIGHT VIDEO WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

High School

REFLECTING ON TEN YEARS OF TRANSFORMATION

Pete Plotnik, High School Principal

In 2006, Maranatha Christian Schools embarked upon a new venture – the development of a comprehensive College Preparatory High School Program, which initially (2006-07) started with 38 students in the 9th and 10th grades, with no upperclassmen. From this humble beginning, we completed three years before our six-student class of 2009 celebrated their graduation, walking down the aisle at Maranatha Chapel. The ‘pomp and circumstance’ of that first graduation signified the successful development of an academic program that conformed to the 150 University of Califor-

group meetings with church and school adult mentors to foster community, and for the first time this year, engaged in the Judah Life purity curriculum, which received an overwhelmingly positive response from our students and staff.

Academically, our students’ SAT scores rank well above national and state standards. Our average by category for the top 10 SAT scores from the current student body show Reading: 604, Math: 655, Writing: 609 for an outstanding total of 1868. Additionally, we boast an 89% pass rate on AP examinations from the past year with an 89.2% success rate over the most recent five year span. Exceptional!

nia “a-g” credit requirements including an additional 100

The universities and colleges where our students have

credits that incorporated a four-year Bible sequence. That

been accepted are too numerous to list in this article.

achievement was only a springboard to further growth in

However, you can refer to our 2014-15 school profile on

all facets of High School life – leading us well on the way

the MCS website. This report is updated annually, follow-

to our mission – ‘Transformed Lives...Transforming the World.’

ing each school year and will include this year’s college

In time, Digital and Performing Arts expanded to provide opportunities in musicals, through the directed artistry of Jayne Howard, such as Peter Pan, and Beauty

% OF AP STUDENTS WITH A SCORE OF 3+ 100% 89.2%

and the Beast. The drumline, with direction from the gifted Mike Holguin, became a staple under the Friday Night Lights, and our athletic program blossomed to include several league championships and San Diego County’s all-time

64%

leading goal scorer in Boys’ Varsity soccer, Luke Kadillak. Social opportunities abound for our student body with annual dances, school clubs, and other events that draw

57.4%

60.8%

50%

our students together to celebrate life at Maranatha, such as the Hoedown, Homecoming float building, games, Luau, and of course the Prom. All of this occurs under the excellent student leadership of our Associated Student Body. Spiritual growth and development rests at the core, and remains the primary focus of our programs. The High School participates in an annual retreat (current location Palomar Christian Conference Center), participates in small

2011-2015 MCHS

CA STATE

NATIONWIDE

GLOBAL

High School

acceptances and placements. I appreciate the perspective

tunity to expand programs, course offerings, and student

of our College and Career Advisor, Joe Mireles, who when

opportunities. Projections for the coming year forecast High School enrollment at 200

asked where our students go to college, responds with “wherever they choose.” The Class of 2016 will add 43 graduates to the 183 who have gone before them in our previous seven graduating

“PROJECTIONS FOR THE COMING YEAR FORECAST HIGH SCHOOL ENROLLMENT AT 200 PLUS – ANOTHER RECORD ENROLLMENT!

plus – another record enrollment! We look forward with great anticipation and excitement to what He will do through MCS in the years to come. Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know the

classes. Praise the Lord!

thoughts that I think toward you, And we are just getting started! 2016-17 will bring the new

says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you

High School building to our campus with increased class-

a future and a hope.”

room capacity, which will provide an even greater oppor-

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

EAGLES SPREAD TH

TO TRANSFORM T

M C S C O L L E G E A C C E P TA N C E S

WESTERN WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY

SEATTLE PACIFIC UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON

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GONZAGA UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY OF IDAHO

CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY PORTLAND STATE UNIVERSITY

PACIFIC UNIVERSITY

GEORGE FOX UNIVERSITY CORBAN UNIVERSITY MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY

OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF OREGON NORTHWEST CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY OF ST. THOMAS BETHEL UNIVERSITY

BOISE STATE UNIVERSITY HUMBOLDT STATE UNIVERSITY IDAHO STATE UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH DAKOTA

DORDT COLLEGE

WILLIAM JESSUP UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, DAVIS UC BERKELEY UC SAN FRANCISCO SANTA CLARA UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY OF THE PACIFIC HOLY NAMES UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY OF WYOMING

SAN JOSE STATE UNIVERSITY

CAL STATE UNIVIERSITY MONTEREY BAY

UNIVERSITY OF IOWA

CREIGHTON UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA CRUZ

UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO BOULDER

UC MERCED

COLORADO CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY OF DENVER

CAL STATE FRESNO COLORADO SPRINGS UNIVERSITY OF KANSAS

CAL POLY SAN LUIS OBISPO

UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SANTA BARBARA

WILLIAM WOODS UNIVERSITY WASHI

COLORADO STATE UNIVERSITY - PUEBLO FORT LEWIS COLLEGE

ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY SOUTHWEST BAPTIST UNIVERSITY

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CALIFORNIA LUTHERAN UNIVERSITY PEPPERDINE UNIVERSITY LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY PLATT COLLEGE VANGUARD UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA IRVINE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA RIVERSIDE CALIFORNIA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY POINT LOMA NAZARENE UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA SAN DIEGO

CAL STATE SAN MARCOS PALOMAR COLLEGE MIRAMAR COLLEGE SAN DIEGO CHRISTIAN COLLEGE SAN DIEGO CITY COLLEGE SAN DIEGO STATE UNIVERSITY

NORTHERN ARIZONA UNIVERSITY

ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY, TEMPE

OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY

GRAND CANYON UNIVERSITY

LE TOURNEAU UNIVERSITY

THE UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA

HAWAII PACIFIC UNIVERSITY

HARDING UNIVE

UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO

ABILENE CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

TEXAS CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY

SOUTHERN METHODIST UNIVERSITY

BAYLOR UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS OF THE PERMIAN BASIN

TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS SAN ANTONIO

LOUISIANA ST UNIVERSITY

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UNIVERSITY OF MAINE

UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT

RENSSELAER POLYTECHNIC INSTITUTE ROCHESTER INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER

CALVIN COLLEGE

MARIST COLLEGE MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY WHEATON COLLEGE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO

THE KING’S COLLEGE

UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH

PENN STATE UNIVERSITY BOWLING GREEN STATE UNIVERSITY VALPARAISO UNIVERSITY

PURDUE UNIVERSITY

ROSE-HULMAN INSTITUTE OF TECH.

BUTLER UNIVERSITY

ASHLAND UNIVERSITY

PENN STATE ALTOONA

OHIO WESLEYAN UNIVERSITY OHIO STATE CEDARVILLE UNIVERSITY OHIO UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY

GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY

GORDON COLLEGE

SUFFOLK BOSTON UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY

QUINNIPAC UNIVERSITY

NEW YORK UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF VISUAL ARTS

FORDHAM UNIVERSITY PARSONS THE NEW SCHOOL FOR DESIGN ST. JOHN’S UNIVERSITY PRATT INSTITUTE

JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY

CALVARY CHAPEL BIBLE COLLEGE HUNGARY

UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY

INDIANA UNIVERSITY LIBERTY UNIVERSITY

INGTON UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY OF SAINT ANDREWS SCOTLAND BELMONT UNIVERSITY TREVECCA NAZARENE UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY OF SAINT ANDREWS UNIVERSITY OF NORTH CAROLINA

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SAMFORD UNIVERSITY

GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

UNIVERSITY OF ALABAMA

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PALM BEACH ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

Congratulations to our International Space Station (ISS) Team on the recent launch of the NASA SpaceX Rocket to the ISS! Our team of 7 students (along with 5 others from local high schools) worked diligently on a MicroLab experiment* that is now activated and processing data aboard the space station.

“THE LONG TERM GOAL IS TO PAVE THE WAY FOR STUDENTS TO MAKE REAL CONTRIBUTIONS TO SCIENCE – EXTENDING THEIR REACH BEYOND THE CLASSROOMS AND INTO SPACE.” Not just any high school experiment – the MicroLab is a real science project that will contribute to the knowledge of space. This year, the students chose to study phototropism in an effort to understand the effects of microgravity on plant growth. After the data is captured over the course of approximately 32 days, the experiments will be loaded onto a return rocket to earth; splashing down May 11 in the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California. MCS is extremely proud

of ISS Team members Neil Cai, Melody Hwangbo, Ryan Park, Alex Partida, Luis Tian, Nick Wu, and Jessica Xu. The science project is under the direction of MCS Science Teacher Mr. Bill Miller with the assistance of Mentors Rongda Xu and Miles Weida. *MCS is one of the few schools who have the opportunity to partner with the AMSE Institute of Valley Christian High School (VCHS) in San Jose. VCHS has been partnering pho•tot•ro•pism (n) with high schools the orientation of a plant around the world to or other organism in conduct MicroLab experiments that response to light, either take place aboard toward the source of light the ISS. (positive phototropism)

or away from it (negative phototropism).

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

JUNIOR HIGH LIVES UP TO ITS MISSION

Bryce Forrester, Junior High Principal

We have arrived at the end of another awesome year for MCS Junior High. What has God been able to accomplish in and through our students? Have we lived up to our mission statement, “Transformed Lives...Transforming the World?” Let’s turn the pages back to August and read forward. Over the course of this school year we have continued to meet the high academic standards established by MCS students, parents and staff alike. Approximately three quarters of our students continue to make the Honor Roll and many of those also made the Principal’s Honor Roll with straight A’s throughout the year. Our students continue to place exceptionally well in ACSI math, spelling,

and writing competitions as well as in regional Math Club competitions. Our higher level math classes Algebra I and Geometry have grown in numbers. We now offer high school credit for 8th grade students in both Spanish I and Geometry. STEAM is on the move. We added a 6th grade computer class to our schedule, and continue to teach Digital Citizenship, Word, PowerPoint, Email, Google Docs and Slides. The entire JH participated in the Hour of Code, Robotic Clubs gained momentum; iPad Carts are used in all JH classes, and more. Our athletic teams competed well in both girls and boys sports, with seventy percent of our students participating in at least one sport this year. Forty-five students played a sport that they had never played before, and eighteen participated in an organized sports program for the first

Junior High

GOD’S VISION IS JUNIOR HIGH’S MISSION

5 66

NEW COMMITMENTS TO JESUS

SHARED THE GOSPEL

19 109

LED SOMEONE TO CHRIST

RECOMMITMENTS

time this year. On a bi-weekly basis our JH Future Christian Athletes known as ‘Huddle’ meet for lunchtime devotion with our PE coaches. About one third of our JH students, twelve of those for the first time, participated in one or both of our show stopping plays; Shrek in the fall, and Beauty and the Beast this spring. Our music program continues to grow with our talented students singing and playing for chapels, concerts and a variety of special events here at school and out in the San Diego community. By the time this article is published, we will have reached a 90% retention rate for returning students.

of all of our staff, most of whom have been here more than a decade; “It is always a joy to acknowledge God giving us the privilege to partner with Him here at MCS. Our greatest pleasure through Him is His gifts of daily joy and peace in loving our students. As Christ pours His love into our hearts, we have a deep love for our students. We strive to inspire them in a quest for excellence in everything they do, specifically living and loving the Lord Jesus through obeying the Word of God.” As the JH Principal, I am both humbled and excited to share a few more statistics and accomplishments that truly speak to our mission at MCS. Five of our students committed their life to Jesus this year. One hundred and nine that have already received Jesus as their personal savior have recommitted their lives during this school year. At least sixty-six of our students shared the gospel with another person, and nineteen students actually led someone to Jesus this year. All Thanks and Glory to God; Transformed Lives…Transforming the World. Have a great summer.

These are all amazing statistics by any standard which through God’s blessing and empowerment, our students, parents, and staff all work together to achieve. One could hardly read through these accomplishments and not conclude that MCS is “‘transforming lives….transforming the world” but all of this is in vain if our Lord and Savior is not at the forefront of everything. I have taken the liberty of paraphrasing a message from our Bible teacher, Mrs. Carter, who has succinctly presented the heart WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

Elementary

GIFTED TEACHERS HELP ELEMENTARY STUDENTS TRANSFORM EVERYDAY Mary Cook, Elementary Principal

As the school year winds down, it’s the perfect time to review some of the brilliant things accomplished this year. We’ve seen the vision of MCS “Transformed Lives…Transforming the World” lived out daily in the lives of our students. Throughout the year, gifted teachers have been molding children’s spiritual understanding of who God is, and in doing, so acknowledging that God is the author of transformation in a child’s heart and mind. Spiritual transformation combined with teaching relevant and strong academics, gives our young children a sturdy foundation to truly make a difference in our communities, country and world. Here are a few ways the Elementary Team has worked at making our vision statement a reality. • Teachers were trained this year in a new process of Biblical Integration that gives context to God’s truths into all academic subjects. This program, combined with weekly scripture memorization, Bible lessons, and vibrant chapel experiences, all help to prepare students to spread the Gospel message to their families, friends and neighbors. • Robotics clubs in grades 1-5 have had an amazing first year! Not only did the students develop programming, presentation, and team skills every week after school, they also went into the community and shared their skills. In the fall, the MegaBots placed in 3rd in the district meet

at Preuss School, and went onto the regional finals at LEGOLAND, competing against 60 teams where they placed 16th. Other teams in the JrFLL division also had a chance to shine at LEGOLAND, showing their building skills and teamwork.

• Praising God through music, dance and drama is another way our students are being transformed into the children that God has designed. In the fall, many Elementary students were part of the hilarious Shrek performance held at the church. Over 1400 public school students were invited to see our kids shine. In addition, our 5th grade Band Performance and Elementary Christmas Musical provided a wonderful way for students to share their talents with the MCS community. Children are busy at work preparing for the Spring Musical and Band Performances in May.

COMING SOON! 20 inquisitive, energetic and adorable Transitional Kindergarten students will be joining the Elementary Program at MCS. The TK program has grown in the last three years at the Preschool campus on Coastwood Road under the expert leadership of Early Education Principal Patrice Andrews. We look forward to its continued success here!

“SPIRITUAL TRANSFO WITH TEACHING REL

RMATION COMBINED

EVANT AND STRONG

ACADEMICS, GIVES O U CHILDREN A STURDY

R YOUNG

FOUNDATION

TO TRULY MAKE A D IF

FERENCE

IN OUR COMMUNITIE

S, COUNTRY,

AND WORLD.”

HIGHER LEARNING STARTS WITH A STRONG FOUNDATION

Preschool

Patrice Andrews, Early Education Principal

Our mission – “Transformed Lives….Transforming the World” starts in Preschool. It is the driving force behind our program, which helps build essential skills that will last a lifetime. Maranatha Christian Preschool has been blessed this year with active parent participation that has made partnering together a success in preparing students for their future. Classrooms are filled with parent volunteers assisting students with teacher-planned learning activities in math, language, STEAM, and art. When young children are encouraged to build upon their natural curiosity, it gives them the opportunity to become active learners who are capable of deep cognitive engagement with topics relevant to their lives. This is the foundation that starts in Preschool early education. The year began with implementing STEAM activities into the classroom curriculum. Preschool students used scientific inquiry skills to actively explore the world around them, developing process skills that are critical to future school success. Another developmental growth area in academic readiness this year was intentional ‘phonological awareness’, the concept of print and alphabetic knowledge. The Trike-a-Thon Fundraiser allowed the Preschool to purchase bookshelves and create a school resource library with

a wonderful assortment of theme books, fiction and non-fiction, and ‘wordless’ books. By making literacy instruction an active component of the student’s day, foundational emergent reading skills are woven together with developmental readiness skills. This serves to solidify comprehension, while simultaneously developing social-emotional, language, and gross motor skills. Students participate in ‘turn and talk’ discussions, and extend their learning through art and outdoor play. It has been a rich year of learning and we look forward to what God has planned for the 2016-2017 school year! Blessings to all of our families for a safe and fun-filled summer!

“WHEN YOUNG CHILDREN ARE ENCOURAGED TO BUILD UPON THEIR NATURAL CURIOSITY, IT GIVES THEM THE OPPORTUNITY TO BECOME ACTIVE LEARNERS WHO ARE CAPABLE OF DEEP COGNITIVE ENGAGEMENT…” WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

Development

SUPPORT AND PLEDGES NOW TOTAL 64% OF THE ‘ANSWERING THE CALL’ CAPITAL CAMPAIGN GOAL! Francine Good, Director of Marketing | Development

By now you have received the ‘Answering the Call’ Capital Campaign brochure. In the materials you’ll read about the scope of our Phase I project, which includes the High School building, the expansion and renovations of the athletic fields, the new Black Box Theatre and the teacher salary matrix. Our campus is expanding because our student body is growing! The growth of our campus will allow:

• High School to expand its innovative College Preparatory program

• Athletics to bring its expanding program to a whole new level

• Performing Arts to have a Black Box Theatre for more dynamic student performances

Plus, we have included the teacher salary matrix because we believe our human resources are our greatest asset. The one-onone attention students receive from our teachers is life-changing. This project is a big undertaking – both in scale and financially – but as Pastor Ray says, “Where God guides, God provides.” And HE is providing, and the momentum is growing! Support and Pledges have now reach 64% of our goal of $9.7 million! This was achieved by a $5 million loan from Maranatha Chapel and a generous $1.2 in pledges from families, staff, and Board Members. As the building goes up, so does the financial support! Praise the Lord! Thank you MCS community for stepping out and joining us on this journey. But we’re just getting started, we still have a little ways go to raise $3.5 to complete Phase I of the project. Please prayerfully consider how you can be a part of this exciting campaign as we reach our final goal. Be sure to follow our blog for the latest project updates – you’ll even find an electronic Letter of Intent to make things simple and easy. If you have any questions, please contact the Development Department.

Development

WATCH OUR CAPITAL CAMPAIGN VIDEO

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

Marketing

TRANSFORMING MCS’ MESSAGING

Francine Good, Director of Marketing | Development

As the school year comes to a close, the Marketing Department is opening our doors and inviting you to step in so we can share all that we have been doing to promote MCS during the 2015-2106 school year. You’ve now entered into an environment where thoughts are focused on signage, advertising, print copy, graphic design, radio advertising, press releases, communication, collateral materials and so much more. We have worked hard to transform and streamline MCS’ messaging and the look of our brand. What are some of the things planned for the 2016-2017 school year? We will continue our awareness campaign and partner with the Admissions Department to go out into the surrounding communities to share about our programs. And speaking about community, it will be our 3rd year participating in the ‘RB Alive Expo!’ on Sunday, June 5, so stop by and see us! We have found this type of event is a great way for families to get to know us. One of our goals for next year is to participate in more or these types of local events. We look forward to seeing you there! 30

Here are some examples of what the team has accomplished in 2015-2016: • Athletics Programs & Brochures • Performing Arts Collateral • Print Advertising – Z-Code, Scripps Ranch, Directories • Radio Advertising – Special Event Coverage on KPRZ • Banners Promoting All External Events • Quarterly Magazine – Produced 3 Issues of WINGSPAN • Press Releases – (Groundbreaking Ceremony, ISS, Father| Daughter Social, Honor Roll, National Arts Award, etc.) • Eagle Express – Editing, Content, Photos and Graphics • Social Media – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram • Maranatha Chapel Communications – Bulletins, Web, Ads • Capital Campaign – Groundbreaking, Vision Nights, On-Going Awareness Campaigns, Short and Long Term Development Plan (Building Plans and Fundraising) • Website Updates (Phase I) Communication (Phase 2) Planning Redesign, Web Content • Marketing Collateral – Division & Event Flyers, Admissions Folders • Events – RB Alive, KPRZ Pastor’s Lunch, Open House & Info Nights, Church Booth • Videos – Groundbreaking Highlights, Jog-a-thon, Superintendent’s Message, Development Updates

Admissions

MCS ENROLLMENT IS CLIMBING! Doris Thurman, Director of Admissions

We are experiencing God’s blessings as we re-enroll our current students, and meet and enroll new students as well. As of May 4, 2016 our retention rate is 86% (average 1st-12th grade) – but there is even more exciting news – re-enrollment is trending in an increasingly upwards direction. We anticipate a re-enrollment of over 87% as more students continue to register. Our High School division is experiencing a tremendous amount of growth with applications increasing by 56% over last year! We are truly excited about the future of Maranatha Christian Schools and feel extremely thankful for God’s provision. The Admissions Department is always eager and ready to assist your family – serving you is our primary focus! Whether you want to know more about our school, or how to navigate

through the enrollment process, or need information about your students records, we are here to answer your questions. If there is anything we can do to help you with the registration process, please do not hesitate to call or drop by. Our doors are always open, and we truly enjoy hearing from you. We’re excited and delighted to experience what God is doing here at MCS each and every day, and we are looking forward to a wonderful summer and an exciting new school year!

WE’RE OPEN DURING THE SUMMER! If you happen to run across a friend or neighbor who is looking for a new school over the summer, please tell them about MCS! We would love to give them a private tour of our campus to show them what we have to offer their children. We will be open every day in preparation for the fall.

86% retention rate

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

Athletics

A BANNER YEAR FOR MCS ATHLETICS Steve Whitley, Director of Athletics

Just two short years ago, the girls athletic teams at Maranatha were ranked near the bottom in all of San Diego County among schools that offered the same sports. Only two of these 92 high schools had a lower ranking. Wow, how times have changed... It has literally been a banner year for the girls, as every team that competed in the fall and winter seasons have brought home a league championship banner. Previously in WINGSPAN, we detailed the success of the volleyball team but now the soccer and basketball teams have added league titles of their own. Both teams won their first-ever league championships with JD Tena’s soccer team finishing 11-6-1 overall and a 7-1 Ocean League record. Nate Jackson’s basketball team, which was the lowest ranked team in the county when he took the helm in 2014, went from worst-to-first by posting a 19-8 mark and sweeping through the Ocean League with a perfect 12-0 season.

IZZY LANDIS OCEAN LEAGUE PLAYER-OFTHE-YEAR

GIRLS SOCCER ALL-LEAGUE

1st TEAM

Kayla McCormick Sarah Trent Morgan Wurtzler

Sr. So. Sr.

2nd

Jessica Hewett Kianna Olson Hannah Rutland

So. Sr. Sr.

TEAM

GIRLS BASKETBALL ALL-LEAGUE

1st TEAM

Izzy Landis Rae Salas

Jr. So.

2nd

Sydney Sheng

So.

TEAM

Both teams qualified for CIF playoffs. The soccer girls lost a 1st round heartbreaker to Mountain Empire in overtime. When regulation play ended, the score was deadlocked at 1-1 and was decided with penalty kicks. The basketball team won it’s first-ever CIF playoff game with a dramatic come-from-behind victory over High Tech San Diego. They were eliminated in the quarterfinals by The Rock Academy. Not surprisingly, many of the girls received post-season All-League honors highlighted by Junior Izzy Landis who was named Ocean League Player-of-the-Year for girls basketball. On the boys side, David Cabral’s soccer team moved up to the tougher Pacific League after winning the Ocean League title in 2015 and nearly won back-to-back league championships. They finished second in league with an 8-1-1 record and ended the season with an impressive 15-3-4 overall record. They lost a tight 1-0 contest to El Camino in the 1st round of CIF playoffs.

The boys basketball team had an uncharacteristic season with a 6-19 overall record in a rebuilding year. Both teams play in the Pacific League and for the second straight year, Senior Isaac Schwan was named Player-of-the-Year in boys soccer.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Athletics

LEAGUE CHAMPIONS 2016

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

Department

GIRLS SOCCER

LEAGUE CHAMPIONS 2016

Athletics

BOYS SOCCER ALL-LEAGUE

1st TEAM

Andre Escoffier Matt Schumacher Issac Schwan

Sr. Jr. Sr.

2nd

Jake Brambila Brett Doig

So. Jr.

TEAM

BOYS BASKETBALL ALL-LEAGUE

1st TEAM 2nd TEAM

James Rohde

Sr.

Matt Brashear

Fr.

MOVING UP TO THE NEXT LEVEL One of our primary goals is to develop athletes for a higher level of play and help them in their quest to play beyond high school. Three MCS athletes recently committed and will be moving on! Senior baseball player Aaron Polley recently signed his National Letter of Intent to pitch at Westmont College next season on scholarship. Westmont recently clinched

© Carey Schumacher the Golden State Athletic Conference title finishing 41-9. They are currently ranked 7th in the nation in the NAIA. Two months ago, a private workout was arranged with the Westmont coaches where Aaron threw a bullpen for them AARON POLLEY and consistently COMMITTED TO PITCH AT WESTMONT COLLEGE hit 88 MPH. They NEXT YEAR! were impressed with his current level and projectability and subsequently made him an offer.

Junior baseball player Byron Smith, who transferred from Escondido Charter this year, courted offers from multiple colleges and recently gave his verbal commitment to play on scholarship at Point Loma Nazarene. Senior multi-sport athlete Kianna Olson, who lettered in volleyball, soccer and cheer, was recently offered a guaranteed roster spot at Bethel University, a Division 3 NCAA school in St. Paul, MN. She will be playing volleyball.

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

Department

PETCO PARK REVISITED

Despite having the first date rained out, nearly 700 Maranatha fans came to Petco Park to watch the boys baseball team face San Diego Jewish Academy. On the field, the game started off great when Pastor Ray Bentley threw a perfect strike for the ceremonial first pitch. The actual game didn’t go quite as well…since the Eagles were defeated 5-0. Off the field and in the stands, everyone in attendance had a fantastic time!

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

1800

audience members attended Beauty & the Beast

ÂŠ Natalia Neumerkel

Department

PERFORMING ARTS PUTS MCS CENTER STAGE Jayne Howard, Director of Performing Arts

It has been an exciting end of the school year for all divisions! Our Spring Musical production of Disney’s ‘Beauty and The Beast’ was a huge success with over 1800 people attending six performances at Maranatha Chapel. A BIG thank you to the church for letting us take over their stage with our sets and costumes and supporting us in so many ways! What a delight it was for me to see our students glorifying our Lord through the Arts in this amazing story of redemption and transformation – not unlike the one Jesus gives us when we accept Him as our Savior!

This May will be a busy one for the Performing Arts Department with two Elementary productions in the MCS gym on Thursday, May 12: • Kindergarten - 2nd Grade “Shake, Rattle and Soul” • 3rd & 4th Grade - “Back to the Cross” Our Spring Music Concert will be Tuesday, May 17 at 7pm in the MCS gym. This will feature Junior High and High School Bands, High School Worship Team, Junior High Choir and Drama Team and the 5th Grade Band. This school year will end with an All School Chapel on Wednesday May 18. Don’t miss this special event with

performances from all divisions and ending with an amazing performance of a medley from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Phantom of the Opera”! Don’t forget to register for our very popular Summer Theatre Arts Camps for 1st-9th grade MCS and community students. This year we are offering a morning camp 8:30am-12pm, and an afternoon MCS CONTINUES TO camp 1- 4:30pm RAISE THE BAR IN Monday-Friday PERFORMING ARTS TO June 20-July 1. TRANSFORM THE WORLD Students take classes in voice, FOR CHRIST. dance, acting, set design, stage combat and more. The camps end with a Broadway Showcase on July 1 in the MCS gym.

Get ready to soar away on a magic carpet ride at our fall production – Disney’s Aladdin! The script is full of nonstop thrills as Aladdin and his mischievous monkey embark upon a spectacular adventure to free Princess Jasmine. I am excited to see what God has in store for the Performing Arts next school year!

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

Three Varisty baseball players take in their incredible surroundings before the game at Petco Park

ÂŠ Carey Schumacher

M A R A N AT H A

CAMPUS LIFE 40

One of our parents, Mr. Coil, makes his MCS stage debut playing Belleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s father Maurice in the spring musical

Junior Jessica Xhu shows off her award-winning AP Art piece with teacher Ms. Shanmugam

Elementary students pray before running the obstacle course at the Jog-A-Thon

In the spirit of Martin Luther, Junior High students write cards of appreciation for MCS staff members

Pastor Ray Bentley gives a Good Friday message at our All-School Chapel

1st graders pray for our new High School building during Spiritual Emphasis Week

7 of our MCS students were featured on the cover of the March/April issue of 92127 magazine to promote our program and summer camps

ARTFEST 2016 – CELEBRATING ART, FELLOWSHIP & FUN! Brigit Sheng & Katie Scherpbier, Co-PAC Presidents

The ArtFest dazzled and delighted – from the student art displays to the action packed Talent Show – the gifts and talents of our remarkable students were exciting to see! As you walked into the courtyard, people were welcomed to ArtFest with a showcase of items from various artisans in ‘Artist’s Alley’. The inside of the gym was truly transformed. Specially constructed walls and track lighting fixtures were installed to give guests a bona fide art gallery experience, featuring artistic selections from all grades including Kindergarteners and High School AP students. And let’s not forget to mention the awesome talent that was represented by our MCS staff!

Not only did the gym house a fantastic selection of art for visitors to see, they could also exit at the back of the gym and take a turn at winning a delicious dessert at the new ‘Dessert Walk.’ Tantalizing goodies from the food trucks catered to a variety of palates, and the inflatables catered to kids’ love of play. Everywhere you went, the air was filled the sound of laughter. We are touched by the incredible love and support of our wonderful MCS families. You have made this end-of-year tradition a huge success, once again!

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

STARTING IN JUNE | OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY

ENRICHMENT & FUN CLASSES SPORTS CAMPS

THEATRE CAMP

SUMMER GAMES

JR HIGH CLASSES

WINGSPAN | VOLUME 2 | ISSUE 3 | SPRING 2016

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2016! MCS seniors have been accepted to the following colleges and universities:

Abilene Christian University Ashland University Azusa Pacific University Bethel University-MN Biola University Boise State University Bowling Green State University California State University, San Marcos Calvin College Cedarville University Central Washington University Chapman University Colorado Christian University Colorado State University Colorado State University Pueblo Fordham University George Fox University Grand Canyon University Humboldt State University Idaho State University Liberty University Northeastern University Northwest Christian University Oklahoma State University Palm Beach Atlantic University Pennsylvania State University - All Campuses Pepperdine University Point Loma Nazarene University

Purdue University Regent University Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Rochester Institute of Technology Samford University San Jose State University Santa Clara University Southwest Baptist University Texas A&M University, Commerce The Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s College The Ohio State University The University of Texas, Permian Basin The University of Texas, San Antonio Trevecca Nazarene University University of California, Davis University of California, Merced University of Idaho University of Maryland, College Park University of New Mexico University of San Francisco University of South Dakota University of St. Thomas Valparaiso University Vanguard University of Southern California Westmont College Whittier College Whitworth University William Jessup University

Transformed Lives...Transforming the World. 9050 Maranatha Drive San Diego, CA 92127 maranathachristianschools.org maranathachristianschools

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