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VIKING VIEW Bellevue Christian School Magazine | September 2025

Celebrating God ’s Faithfulness

FEATURING •

75 Years of BCS - Page 4-5

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Performing Arts & Athletics - Pages 12-13

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Graduating Class - Page 6-7

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A Year in Photos - Pages 14-15

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Alumni Spotlight - Page 8

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New Building - Page 16

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Class Reunions - Page 9

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Community Outreach - Page 17

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Remembering Mr. B - Page 9

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Gratitude Report - Page 18

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Alumni Updates - Page 10-11

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In Loving Memory - Page 19

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Clyde Hill Campus

Mack Campus

Three Points Campus

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MISSION STATEMENT Preparing young people to live faithfully and fully for God in a rapidly changing world with the ability to understand, evaluate, and transform their world from the foundations of God’s unchanging values.

MIKE OLSON Interim Head of School

2025 - 2026 BOARD OF DIRECTORS

DR. TOM ALSBURY Associate Head of School DANIEL BLEVINS Director of Operations

DR. TONYA LOVING President

AMANDA FRANKLIN Director of Admissions & Marketing

KIRSTEN MILLER Vice President SCOTT LAMPE Second Vice President

ED HOOKE Director of Human Resources

GREG TOMLIN Secretary

JENNIFER SMITH Director of Development

DAN HODO Treasurer

REBECCA SMITH Director of Academics

RUTH BURNETT

MARK STINGLEY Director of Finance

JENNI CLARK RYAN FALLS

MARCUS FRANKLIN Clyde Hill Principal

DR. SHARLEEN KATO

AMY WASSON Director of Preschool

ANN KATS

STEPHANIE ANDREOTTI Mack Principal FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA TO STAY UP TO DATE WITH EVENTS & NEWS! INSTAGRAM • FACEBOOK • LINKEDIN @bellevuechristianschool

CORRINE NIELD Three Points Principal

BELLEVUECHRISTIAN.ORG 3

CELEBRATING 75 YEARS

OF FAITH, LEARNING, AND LEGACY AT BELLEVUE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL In 2025, Bellevue Christian School (BCS) marks an extraordinary milestone: 75 years of unwavering commitment to faith-based education, academic excellence, and Christcentered community. BCS was founded in 1950 by Joe and Al Greene, who envisioned a school rooted in biblical truth and academic rigor. BCS has grown from humble beginnings into a thriving institution that has shaped thousands of students, inspiring them to pursue lives of purpose and service.

knowledge but to understand their place in God’s story. Whether in the science lab, the art studio, or on the athletic field, faith informs every subject and interaction. It’s this holistic approach that continues to set Bellevue Christian apart. BCS has not defined itself by what it is against, but by what it is for.

The impact of BCS extends well beyond its walls. Alumni have become teachers, pastors, engineers, artists, doctors, and community leaders. They carry with them the spiritual formation and values instilled during their time at BCS.

From the first classes held in a church basement to the vibrant campuses now located in Medina, Clyde Hill, and Woodinville, the journey of BCS has been one of faith, perseverance, and God’s faithful provision. Over the decades, the school has remained steadfast in its mission: to prepare young people to live faithfully and fully for God in a rapidly changing world.

As BCS steps into the next 75 years, it does so with a deep sense of gratitude and bold faith. The world has changed dramatically since 1950, but the need for Christ-centered education remains as vital as ever. Looking ahead, Bellevue Christian School is committed to equipping students not just for college and career—but for life.

The 75th anniversary is more than just a celebration of longevity—it’s a celebration of legacy. It’s about the teachers who mentored generations of students, the alumni who went on to impact their communities around the world, and the families who partnered together to build something lasting. Through the decades, BCS has maintained a strong academic foundation while cultivating spiritual growth and a desire to be faithful to God’s Word.

So, we celebrate—not just the past 75 years, but the promise of what’s to come.

May the next generations of BCS students continue to shine as light in the world, grounded in truth, guided by grace, and fueled by a vision that began with faith.

Here’s to 75 years of excellence— and to a future filled with advancing our mission.

One of the defining strengths of BCS is its integration of faith and learning. Here, students are not only encouraged to pursue

1950 Our Beginning – Eastside Christian School was initially held in the basement of Juanita Community Church.

Total student population 16 students in grades 1-8

1962

1970s

1962 - Clyde Hill gym construction

1970 - B ellevue Preschool Campus opened at Westminster Chapel 1975 - F irst Girls Track State Champions & First Auction for BCS

1980s 1981 - B egan renting the Three Points Elementary Campus from Bellevue Public School District 1985 - W oodinville Campus & Preschool opened 1986 - C reation of the Educational Confession

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Gym Construction

Sonja Bennett

Mack Elementary

First Football Team

1990s 1991 - Adopted the mission statement; first mission trip to Tijuana.

1992 - C lyde Hill Greene Center & English Language Learning (ELL) International program was started 1996 - O pened the Mack Elementary Woodinville Campus.

Early Faculty & Staff

First Mission Trip

2000

2000s

Celebrating 50 years!

2003 - Second Sight, written by BCS teacher Lowell Hagan, published 2011 - First football team 2024 - AP Honor Roll Platinum Award & Renovation of Flynn Field at Clyde Hill 5

2025 First Girl’s Basketball State Champions Renovation of Clyde Hill MPR to the new South Campus Hub and Fitness Center

CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2025

The Bellevue Christian School Class of 2025 launched their senior year with an unforgettable overnight retreat at Black Lake, building bonds and making plans for their final year of high school. Throughout the year, they were showered with love through Senior Blessings—donuts, popcorn, hot chocolate, and a celebration of Easter. The year culminated in the cherished tradition of parent car decorating and a special graduation celebrating student achievements and spirit. The class of 2025 will explore the globe serving, working, and attending 46 different colleges and universities—leaving a legacy of faith, friendship, and fun here at home. Congratulations!

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POST-GRADUATE PLANS UNIVERSITY & COLLEGE CHOICES

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ARIZONA Grand Canyon University

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CALIFORNIA ArtCenter College of Design Azusa Pacific University Biola University California Baptist University California Polytechnic State University Chapman University Master’s University Point Loma Nazarene University San Diego University University of California Berkeley University of California Los Angeles University of California Riverside University of California Santa Barbara University of San Diego

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COLORADO Colorado Christian University

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IDAHO Boise State University

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ILLINOIS Loyola University Chicago University of Illinois UrbanaChampaign INDIANA Indiana University

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MASSACHUSETTS Boston University Williams College

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TEXAS Texas A&M University Texas A&M University Tarleton

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MICHIGAN Calvin University

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VIRGINIA Liberty University

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MISSOURI Washington University at St. Louis

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MONTANA Montana State University

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NEW YORK New York University Syracuse University

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OHIO Ohio State University

WASHINGTON Bellevue College Central Washington University Gonzaga University Lake Washington Institute of Technology Seattle Pacific University Seattle University University of WA - Bothell University of WA - Seattle Washington State University

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OREGON George Fox University Oregon State University University of Portland

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SOUTH DAKOTA South Dakota State University

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• • • • •

OUT OF COUNTRY • Simon Fraser University, BC • University of Greenwich, UK GAP YEAR • Work • London • Japan, Language Program • YWAM

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

DANIEL STABBERT (’03) NAVIGATES A LIFE OF IMPACT AT SEA From kindergarten forts and lunchroom laughs to worldwide marine exploration, Daniel Stabbert’s journey started at BCS and sailed into a life of extraordinary adventure and purpose.

Daniel now leads a global maritime solutions company focused on scientific research, humanitarian missions, and underwater robotics. His career has taken him to Antarctica, Singapore, Chile, the Philippines, and beyond.

He’s supported disaster recovery for Hurricane Katrina, Puerto Rico’s power crisis, and the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. He’s worked with NASA and NOAA, helped clean the Pacific garbage patch, and even assisted in the search for Amelia Earhart’s plane.

A 2003 graduate, Daniel attended BCS from preschool through high school. His family’s deep maritime roots played a significant role in his upbringing, and his father chose BCS not only for its Christ-centered education but also for the flexibility it offered. “We were constantly on the move with projects around the world,” Daniel recalls. “BCS supported that—sending homework on the road, encouraging real-world learning.”

But the project closest to his heart is “The Lost 52,” helping locate and honor WWII submarines and their crews. “Each discovery is sacred,” Daniel says. “We do a bell-ringing ceremony and 3D photogrammetry to preserve the site for future generations. It’s history. It’s closure.”

Looking back, Daniel credits BCS for shaping not only his academic foundation but his identity.

“I didn’t fit the mold—but I was supported, challenged, and equipped to think independently and faithfully,” he says. “BCS taught me how to ask why—not just what.”

Daniel’s memories at BCS range from fondly remembered nap cubbies to prank-calling 911 (an unforgettable life lesson, he laughs). But what left the deepest imprint was the way teachers challenged students to think critically and faithfully. “The toughest teachers—Mr. Jones, Mr. Seymour, Mr. Ulstein—weren’t just about content; they taught us how to build a worldview rooted in logic, faith, and integrity.”

Now a father, Daniel reflects on BCS’s 75-year legacy with gratitude.

“It influenced three generations of my family.

That kind of impact is rare—and it lasts.”

A pivotal moment came in a long-lunch AutoCAD class led by beloved teacher Charlie Brown (Mr.B). There, Daniel designed his first ship— and unknowingly charted his future. “That class launched my love of vessel design. I’ve been designing ships ever since.”

ALUMNI, WE WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU! Share your story and experiences with us at: bellevuechristian.org/alumni-stories-form 8

CLASS REUNIONS CLASS OF 1970 The Bellevue Christian School Class of 1970 recently gathered for a joyful reunion, reconnecting after decades apart. Laughter, stories, and old yearbooks filled the evening as classmates reminisced about their school days. The event was a warm celebration of friendship, shared history, and the lasting bonds formed over 50 years ago.

CLASS OF 1975 The Class of 1975 gathered at the Clyde Hill campus to celebrate their 50th reunion, filling the grounds with laughter, hugs, and stories from decades past. Alumni reminisced about favorite teachers, memorable games, and friendships that have stood the test of time.

The event blended nostalgia and joy, honoring the legacy of their shared years while looking ahead to the future with renewed connection.

CLASS OF 1985 The Bellevue Christian School Class of 1985 gathered for their 40th class reunion on September 7th at 4:00 pm at BCS. They reconnected with old friends, shared memories, and celebrated four decades since graduation.

CLASS OF 1995 The Class of 1995 gathered on August 3rd, 2025, at Seth Talbot’s neighborhood clubhouse for a long-awaited reunion. Stories filled the evening as classmates reconnected after three decades.

The night ended with promises to meet again soon, making it a celebration worth remembering.

CLASS OF 2003 The Bellevue Christian School Class of 2003 reunited to share memories, laughter, and life updates after more than two decades apart. Old friendships were rekindled, and the night was filled with stories that bridged the gap between then and now.

CLASS OF 2010 The Class of 2010 finally reunited for their 15th reunion after missing their 10-year gathering in 2020 due to COVID. They had such an amazing time that planning is already underway for their 20th reunion. If you were unable to attend and would like details about the next event, please contact Hannah Fenske at joyfenske@gmail.com.

CLASS OF 2015 The Class of 2015 gathered on Saturday, June 21st at Art Marble 21 in Seattle for a lively reunion filled with laughter, music, and reconnecting with old friends. Alumni reminisced about shared memories while enjoying great food, drinks, and the vibrant atmosphere of the venue.

IF YOU WOULD LIKE MORE INFORMATION about alumni reunions or need to update your contact information, please contact Linda Shelby at linda.shelby@bellevuechristian.org.

CELEBRATING MR. B Mr. Charlie Brown (Mr. B) is a celebrated retired teacher from Bellevue Christian School. Each morning, he welcomed students with Bible verses on colorful slips of paper as they arrived for class.

In later years, he continued encouraging others by sending out daily inspirational texts.

Former students have gathered Mr. B’s messages into a devotional book, available for purchase ($20).9 Scan the QR code to learn more.

ALUMNI UPDATES LORIN BROWN ‘63 Lorin Brown attended SPU, served in Vietnam, and graduated from WWU before a long career in corporate sales and marketing. Now retired in Arizona, he enjoys collecting vintage cars and fondly remembers his sister Bonnie, a beloved BCS teacher.

DEBBIE BENDER SAGE ‘82 Debbie Bender Sage lives in College Grove, Tennessee, working remotely for CRISTA Ministries in Seattle. She and her husband enjoy life in the South while staying connected to their PNW roots and their three grown children across the globe.

AMY FRANSEN SCHOUTEN ‘88 Amy Fransen Schouten teaches PE at Ebenezer Christian School in Lynden and is the coordinator of Summer Camps at Lynden Christian School.

TODD PHEIFER ‘90 Todd Pheifer recently released his third book, Diary of a Seattle Sports Fan: Lessons in Love, Losing, and Loyalty, chronicling his lifelong devotion to Seattle teams. The book is available now on Amazon.

JON ANDERSON ‘96 Jonathan Anderson, Ph.D., is a licensed psychologist and longtime Eastern faculty member who has held several key leadership roles, including Dean of the College of Professional Programs. He has received multiple awards for excellence in teaching, research, and service.

TAIHEAN (STEVE) CHOI ’99 Taihean (Steve) Choi earned a B.S. in Industrial Engineering from UW and has worked internationally since 2004. He and his family have lived in Nicaragua since 2020 working on a renewable energy project, soon returning to Korea as the project concludes.

MEANGGU (MICHAEL) CHOI ‘00 Meanggu (Michael) Choi, Steve Choi’s younger brother, is currently living in San Jose, California, with his wife and two daughters.

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PAIGE BERDAN SCHWEIGER ‘11 Paige Berdan Schweiger lives on a few acres in a small Palouse town with her firefighter husband and daughter Sophie Sage (born in January 2024). After 8 ½ years working in an OT/PT office, Paige is now enjoying time as a stay-at-home mom.

GRACE (SUNGEUN) CHUNG ‘12 Grace (Sungeun) Chung studied Math and Economics in college and now works in finance after seven years in ed-tech and earning a master’s from Georgetown. She and her husband live in D.C. with their two sons and recently helped start a Korean church in the area.

RACHEL BLAIR JAVOR ‘12 Rachel Blair married Alex Javor on July 19, 2024, in Snohomish, WA. Her sister Heidi Blair Ziegler ‘09 and Julia Olsby Murphy ‘11 were her bridesmaids in the wedding.

MELISSA PAGE DAVIS ‘15 Melissa Page Davis is a Pacific Northwest native and full-time apparel graphic artist based in Los Angeles. She illustrated the book, Come Out and Play! written by Mare Sullivan, a former BCS teacher, who now inspires young learners at a homeless shelter and outdoor preschool in Kirkland, WA. NATALIE FIREBAUGH-WOOSLEY ‘16 & CARTER WOOSLEY ‘16 Natalie Firebaugh-Woosley and Carter Woosley, high school sweethearts since sophomore year, met in 7th grade and recently celebrated their wedding anniversary in June.

NED CARLSEN ‘20 Ned Carlsen ’20 earned a History degree from the University of Puget Sound and has traveled widely since graduation.

CARTER GRUSZ ‘22 Carter Gruz attends Washington State University and has interned with WSU Football and Athletics Creative Video, gaining experience in filming and editing. He’s made the Dean’s List three times and recently joined the Seattle Seahawks as a pro shop associate.

TO READ THE WHOLE STORY VISIT: bellevuechristian.org/alumni 11

PERFORMING ARTS IN REVIEW: A YEAR OF FLOURISHING AND FUN

The 2024–25 school year was remarkable for Performing Arts at Bellevue Christian School.

Students excelled in Choir, Band, Jazz Band, and Drama, growing both in artistic talent and personal expression.

In Theatre, BCS formed a Thespian Troupe, competed in Regional and State Thespy’s, and celebrated senior Anna DeBord (Loyola University), who earned a National Qualifying Superior ranking. Our troupe also earned an Excellent for their one-act play, Gossip.

The fall theater production of The Mousetrap showcased 15 students in cast and crew roles. The spring musical, Shrek, brought together over 40 participants, including elementary, junior high, and high school students, staff, and a live pit orchestra. All performances were sold out and received rave reviews.

This year also marked the debut of our powerful Drum Line, bringing fresh energy and rhythm to sporting events and concerts. We were equally thrilled by the return of the Viking Pep Band! Both groups elevated our school spirit and brought energy to every performance.

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ATHLETICS IN REVIEW: A YEAR OF VICTORY AND VISION

The 2024–25 athletic season at Bellevue Christian School was marked by triumph, growth, and promise.

Viking athletes competed with excellence, integrity, and Christlike character across every sport.

In the fall, the Girls Soccer team won the District Championship and earned 2nd place at State, led by Lucy Carrel (Williams College). Dave Westburg, the girls’ soccer coach, was named the District Coach of the Year for the Nisqually League. Volleyball and Cross Country also advanced to the State level, with Adeline Daniel (Point Loma Nazarene) and Justyn Peterhans (Calvin University) as standouts.

Winter brought historic success as Girls Basketball claimed BCS’s first 1A State Title, led by Addie Taylor (Biola University). Coach Mark DeJonge was honored as Coach of the Year. The Boys’ Basketball team also reached the State tournament.

Spring brought continued success as the Boys’ Baseball team won its second 1A State Title in four years, with three players committing to college programs: Luke Evenson (South Dakota State University), Cash Erdman (Seattle University), and Mason Hill (New York University). Track & Field sent 17 athletes to the State Meet, earning four podium finishes, with Emily DeJonge heading to Calvin University. In Golf, Derek Lowry placed 12th. Off-campus, Jelly Davies (softball) and Levi Bengelink (javelin and water polo) also earned college spots at Dallas Christian University and Biola University, respectively. Roll Viks!

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NEW SOUTH CAMPUS HUB AND FITNESS CENTER The South Campus HUB officially opened its doors in January 2025!

Since then, it has quickly transformed into a vibrant, multi-purpose space for events, classrooms, and community connection.

Right next door, the brand-new weight room features state-of-the-art equipment and ample space for fitness classes, offering a modern environment for our students to focus on health and wellness.

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COMMUNITY OUTREACH CARNIVAL The 2024 All School Carnival was a blast!

Families from all three campuses came together to enjoy delicious food, exciting games, and the always-popular cake walk. A sweet celebration of community and fun!

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING In December, we joyfully gathered in community and celebrated the first annual Christmas Tree Lighting, honoring the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. It was a wonderful evening listening to the story of Christmas, singing carols, and enjoying cocoa and cookies together.

CELEBRATING A MILESTONE: BCS 50TH GALA & AUCTION SUCCESS! We are thrilled to share the incredible success of the Bellevue Christian School 50th Gala and Auction! Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of our donors, we raised over $1 million, with more than $871,000 added to the Teacher Endowment Fund—a powerful investment in the future of our educators and students.

OUT OF THE BLUE – THINKING OF YOU A New Tradition Brings a Heartfelt Surprise to First-Year Alumni Last fall, we launched a new tradition: Out of the Blue – Thinking of You care packages for our first-year alumni. As October rolled in and the “I miss home” feelings began to surface, dedicated parents came together to assemble packages filled with love and encouragement.

It was a beautiful evening of community, gratitude, and celebration of God’s continued provision for BCS. Thank you to everyone who attended, gave, and helped us reach—and exceed—our goals. Your support is a testament to the strength and spirit of the BCS family.

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GRATITUDE REPORT 2023-2024

2023-2024 YEAR

PERCENT OF TOTAL

OPERATING REVENUES Tuition and Fees

$19,683,587

78.7%

Contributions and Fundraising

$2,914,148

11.6%

Other Revenues

$2,424,746

9.7%

Total Operating Revenue

$25,022,481

OPERATING EXPENSES (including depreciation)

2023-2024 YEAR

PERCENT OF TOTAL

Instructional and Programs

$11,195,768

46.1%

Tuition Assistance

$1,716,087

7.1%

General and Administrative

$10,598,316

43.7%

Marketing and Development

$759,214

3.1%

Total Operating Expenses

$24,269,385

CONTRIBUTIONS AND FUNDRAISING

2023-2024 YEAR

Annual Fund/General

$496,053

17.0%

Auction and Events

$256,692

8.8%

Restricted

$2,161,403

74.2%

Total Contribution and Events

$2,914,148

Tuition + Fees

Contributions + Fundraising

Other Revenue

General + Administrative

Tuition Assistance Marketing + Development

Instruction + Programs

PERCENT OF TOTAL

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Restricted

Annual Fund/ General

Auction + Events

In Loving Memory The Bellevue Christian School community joins in prayerful remembrance of those who have passed away. May the families of those who are no longer with us in body be held in our prayers and may the departed rejoice in being eternally present with the Lord.

BELLEVUE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL ALUMNI •

Erin Peterson ‘10

09/13/2023

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Gerald Prior ‘72

12/29/2024

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Patricia Bodry ‘99

08/25/2024

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Tracy Priszner Heeb ‘86

01/04/2025

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Kristie Lloyd Nienaber ‘93

05/16/2025

Betty Greene | 04/30/2025 •

Children: Anna ’81, Thomas ’83, Carl ‘85 (deceased), Ted ’87

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Husband: Thomas ‘56

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Receptionist, Teacher, Payroll, Controller

Sally Paulus | 06/19/2025

FRIENDS, FAMILY, FACULTY & STAFF

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Children: Michael Jr.

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Husband: Michael (deceased 7/2025)

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Grandchildren: Junia and Elizabeth

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Kindergarten teacher for 21 years

Dan Ballbach | 07/06/2025

Nadzieja McMillan | 04/06/2019 •

Children: Margaret, Rosalie, Bob, David, and Barbara

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Children: Brett Ballbach ‘88

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Wife: Annelle

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Husband Robert (deceased in 2002)

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7th and 8th Grade English Teacher

Parent, Corporation Member, and Chairman of the School Board

Sheri Wilkerson | 08/26/2024 •

Children: Sierra

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Husband: Doug

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6th Grade Teacher at Three Points Campus

If you would like us to publish the passing of a loved one connected to Bellevue Christian School, please email Jennifer Smith, Director of Development at jsmith3@bellevuechristian.org 19

1701 98th Ave NW Clyde Hill, WA 98004

UPCOMING EVENTS •

October 4: All School Carnival

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October 10: Football Homecoming

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December 7: BCS Christmas Tree Lighting

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December 19: Basketball Homecoming

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March 28: BCS Auction

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April 24-25/May 1-2 : Clyde Hill Musical Theater Production of Bye Bye Birdie

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June 12: High School Graduation

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June 17: Last Day of School

QUESTIONS? VISIT US AT

BELLEVUECHRISTIAN.ORG

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