Inquiries about joining the Bethany community can be directed to admissions@bethanycs.net.
Dear Friends,
By the time you hold this Bulletin in your hands, our faculty and staff will have eagerly walked through the newly opened doors of a finished lower school wing. This marks the achievement of a major strategic goal—building Bethany Christian Schools into a full K-12 school, thereby becoming a distinctive location for families with children of all ages who desire a faith-based, holistic education.
Every May, we proudly ‘open the doors’ for a new class of graduates, ready to embrace the bright futures that await them. We celebrate their achievements this year as 92% of our graduates are heading to university. Collectively, these exceptional individuals have secured hundreds of thousands of dollars in scholarships, a testament to their hard work and dedication. Others are embarking on exciting career paths or planning an enriching gap year abroad.
DEATHS
Francis Miller (’55)
Goshen, IN, Jan. 19, 2024
Wilmetta (Yoder) Maust (’59)
Goshen, IN, Feb. 7, 2024
Ruby (Mullet) Farmwald (’59)
MARRIAGES
Liz Martin (’03) and Randy Gingerich, Goshen, IN, Mar. 9, 2024
Nicholas Miller (’05) and Hailey Bunk, Sept. 30, 2023
Life is a series of doors opening and closing on opportunities, relationships, and seasons. In these moments, we find comfort in the words of Matthew 7:7, knowing that God is with us, guiding and sustaining us. We are deeply grateful for your presence in our story – for celebrating our shared history and eagerly anticipating the future. Your support is invaluable as we continue to open doors to a bright future for our students.
Sincerely,
Tim Lehman Head of School
BIRTHS
Ashley and Calvin Graybill (’08) Goshen, IN, son Merlin Ray, Nov. 18, 2023
BULLETIN
ethany Christian Schools
USPS 817-760
Editor: Eric Dyck Hilty
Designer: Sumer Schlabach
Consulting Editors: Tim Lehman
Kevin Miller
Abbe Buller
Summer 2024 Vol. 69 No. 2
2904 South Main Street
Goshen, IN 46526-5421 574 534-2567
info@bethanycs.net
POSTMASTER: Send form 3579 to Bethany Bulletin, c/o Bethany Christian Schools
2904 South Main Street Goshen, IN 46526-5421
Goshen, IN, Apr. 9, 2024
Judy (Crossgrove) Schwartz (’60) Leo, IN, May 10, 2024
Karen Miller (’64)
Riverside, IL, Nov. 29, 2023
Esther (Bontrager) Wenger (’65)
Shipshewana, IN, Mar. 17, 2024
Ephraim Martin (’67)
Apollo Beach, FL, May 18, 2024
Eva (Miller) Burroway (’69)
New Philadelphia, OH, Jan. 14, 2021
John Zimmerman (’69)
Elkhart, IN, Aug. 31, 2023
Grace (Schrock) Bradley (’70)
Indianapolis, IN, Apr. 20, 2024
Chrisann (Hensler) Longstreet (’74)
Noblesville, IN, Sept. 9, 2020
Jay D. Ganger (’75)
South Bend, IN, Dec. 14, 2023
Cindy (Bontrager) Hawkins (’82)
Middlebury, IN, May 8, 2024
Robinzina Bryant-Felton (’84)
Flossmoor, IL, Sept. 12, 2021
Eric Horst (’89)
Trussville, AL, Feb. 12, 2024
Darrel Hostetler (F ’67-75, 85-86)
Goshen, IN, Jan. 31, 2024
Irene Gross (F ’68-96)
Goshen, IN Apr. 4, 2024
Megan Schmucker (’12) and Nicholas Merriman Bourbon, IN, Feb. 25, 2023
Malaina Weldy (’12) and Charles Snyder, Grand Rapids, MI, Apr. 27, 2024
Laken Richer (’13) and Jeremy Good, Staunton, VA, Oct. 28, 2023
Jordan Haarer (’15) and Andrea Weaver, Tippecanoe, IN, Aug. 25, 2023
Noah Hochstetler (’15) and Amira Kupty, South Bend, IN, May 6, 2023
Ethan Miller (’15) and Estephania Peralta-Martinez, Mao Dominican Republic, Apr. 1, 2024
Ryan Oostland (’16) and Rowena Zuercher Estes Park, CO, Nov. 5, 2023
Alexa Haarer (’18) and Josh Friesen Sep. 27, 2022
Gabriella Klopfenstein (’18) and William Troyer, Tippecanoe, IN, Oct. 14, 2023
Anne and Philip Shenk (’07) Goshen, IN, son Calvin Darren, Dec. 2, 2023
Alaina and Kevin Hawkins (’13) daughter Sloane Cynthia, May 10, 2023
Kim and Aaron Johnson (F 2017-) Goshen, IN, son Xavier Raymond, Mar. 20, 2024
NOTES
Kent Dutchersmith (’86) belongs to The Lost Luggage jazz trio and produced several songs on their new album Carrion Items
Britt Kaufmann (’92) published ‘Midlife Calculus’ poem in Scientific American. A full length collection of her poetry, also entitled ‘Midlife Calculus’ will be published in the fall of 2024.
SaeJin Lee (’06) is an art therapist in training at the School of Art Institute of Chicago.
Keep in touch with Bethany and share your news. Give us an update by using the link www.bethanycs.net/apps/form/alumni
Bethany’s Lower School Wing
With the construction of a new lower school wing, Bethany is on the threshold of opening the doors this fall to our first kindergarten students and of providing dedicated classrooms for lower school students, art, and an outdoor amphitheater. Here is a recap of how Bethany made it to this point.
Through the hopes of a strategic plan, which was formalized in 2020, the administrative team and board of trustees envisioned Bethany becoming a K-12 school serving students in the community who come from Anabaptist traditions along with a broad range of religious and ethnic backgrounds.
After the completion of the Great Strides Campaign, which provided an update to the athletic complex, Bethany initiated the Bright Future Campaign. Then Advancement Director Sarah Krabill Lind began the process of obtaining pledges and funds. In the process lead donors, Ron (’64) and Liz Gingerich, made an initial commitment of $1 million to the project and invited alumni to join them.
In January of 2023, Bethany’s board of trustees gave the green light to start building. With nearly $4 million
committed of the $7.5 million needed for the project, the board felt the time was right to set the process in motion.
Mild spring weather allowed excavation and preparation of the new wing’s foundation to begin in April 2023. E.F. Hooley Construction, owned and operated by alum Eric Hooley (’75), was ready to start early so the building could be completed by the beginning of the 202425 academic year. Eric said, “Getting ahead of the game has so many ramifications, like making sure the subcontractors are available, pricing, and of course supplies are available. I am glad we were able to get started early and have the time to get things finished.” Construction continued along an aggressive schedule, allowing
Eric Hooley (’75)
the building to be sealed for interior work before the threat of winter weather.
Brent Miller, facilities director, said, “There are always little hiccups along the way, but we were fortunate there weren’t any major issues in this project.”
Funds are still needed for the capital building project. Lindsey Mason, who replaced Sarah as chief advancement officer in January 2024, is eager to complete the campaign, which has $2 million remaining. As Lindsey is getting to know the community, she is optimistic there are individuals and families who care about Bethany and will cheerfully give out of their own love and support of Bethany.
Bethany is opening the doors to a bright future, a future that envisions a dynamic K-12 learning community in which students are known, loved, and prepared for their journey beyond school.
As the lower school wing approaches completion, here are a few comments from people within Bethany’s community.
“I am so excited about our state-of-the-art facility and the opportunities it will give Bethany’s youngest students. The new spaces are flexible and allow us to do education how we want to. The architects built spaces for students to collaborate, cook together, and even store their muddy boots and rain pants! Our outdoor amphitheater will be a wonderful spot for students to explore, play, and perform.”
–Juanita Hershberger, lower school principal
“I am really happy how the amphitheater turned out. It is wonderful to have a retention area that isn’t just a hole in the ground. This is going to be a useful space that is in essence another classroom.” –Brent Miller, facilities director
“As an alum, I am glad to be a part of a major project here at Bethany nearly 50 years after I was a student. It has been one of the most enjoyable projects I have ever worked on.”
–Eric Hooley, president of E.F. Hooley Construction
“I’m looking forward to physically being a part of the school–not having to take an umbrella or a winter coat [from the “barn”] to go to lunch or chapel or to make copies! I love the lights and the big window in my new space and look forward to having neighbors for the first time.”
–Christa Janzen, art teacher
Friends, Fun, Field Day!
When the weather is gorgeous and attention spans are shortening, there’s no better way to spend an afternoon than at field day! Students in grades 1-6 heated things up by challenging each other in relay races, water games, and tug-of-war; a Kona Ice truck was on hand to cool everyone off. We’re thankful for teacher Sarah Yoder who has helped build this fun field day tradition for the last week of school!
Baking with KP
Bethany always has fantastic food in the cafeteria, but lunches became even sweeter on Fridays this semester! School Counselor Krysten Parson (KP) was looking for new ways to spend intentional time with lower school students who could benefit from a little extra small group time. Knowing that the best way to connect with kids is by doing a shared activity she brainstormed with Tara Swartzendruber Landis, cafeteria director, and the idea for baking Fridays was born. Each Thursday or Friday morning, KP chose several lower school students to help measure and mix the ingredients for that week’s treat and then to help with scooping the batter onto trays for baking. On Fridays during lunch, students took turns serving the treats to the rest of the student body (even kids who packed their lunches!), faculty, and staff. It’s been a super-sweet way to build relationships and brighten Friday lunches for everyone!
The Wind in the Willows Middle School Stages
Middle school students produced a touching rendition of the classic children’s tale “The Wind in the Willows.” Rewritten and reimagined for the stage by Director Evie Nafziger, the show combined both humorous and tender elements. Woodland creatures adventured through life with their friend Toad, learning valuable lessons about friendship and loyalty along the way. Kudos to all the directors, cast, and crew for a great show!
Each May, Bethany’s 8th-grade class spends a day away together to mark the end of their middle school years. This year, students spent a beautiful day near Grand Rapids, Mich., enjoying culture, fun, togetherness and bonding. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park provided an ideal natural setting for contemplation and reflection. Then, several hours at a family fun center were filled with lots of laughter and friendly competition during putt-putt, bowling, and arcade games. As these students transition to high school, the time they spend all together will be less frequent. We hope that experiences like this trip will serve as touchstones to remind them of their connectedness and strengthen their bond as the class of 2028!
Alumni Gathering at
Bethany alumni from Greencroft and surrounding neighborhoods were invited to a gathering at Greencroft’s Community Center on Friday, April 26. It was a wonderful morning to get to know each other and listen to a Bethany senior barbershop quartet.
Tim Lehman, head of school, welcomed everyone to Bethany’s first alumni gathering at Greencroft and quickly surveyed those in attendance. Alumni from different decades raised their hands, and former faculty members joined the gathering. Overall, 30 individuals attended the morning and represented the following graduating classes: 1955, 1956, 1958, 1959, 1961, 1964, 1966, 1968, 1970, and 1992.
The youngest alumna in attendance, Laura Yoder Moshier (’92), also a chaplain at Greencroft, said, “I was surprised by the individuals who showed up that I didn’t even realize were Bethany grads. What a wonderful opportunity to connect further with these individuals as I visit and work with them.”
The senior barbershop quartet sang, Edelweiss, Will the Circle be Unbroken, Who Will Buy, I Sing the Mighty Power of God, and Be Thou My Vision. The quartet included Adam Siemens-Rhodes (bass), Alina Bergstresser (soprano), Joryn Yoder (alto), and Alysson Barkman (tenor). The quartet performed the song Who Will Buy in a district competition for the Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA) competition earlier in the year. As a result of their performance, they received a gold rating with a perfect score!
After the quartet performance, Lindsey Mason, chief advancement officer, shared a Bethany update with the alumni. Highlights included news about the new lower school building construction and the addition of a kindergarten in the 202425 academic year. Lindsey, who began her role in January, emphasized the hope of hearing personal stories from alumni and getting to know them better soon.
After the update, Eric Dyck Hilty, advancement associate, offered alumni a chance to ask questions or share a short vignette about their time at Bethany. Bob Brenneman (’61) shared a story of traveling with Bethany classmates on their quartet tour to Michigan and the memories it brought back when listening to the current senior barbershop quartet.
It was a pleasure to have the alum share stories individually with the others present, especially as they gathered around tables with former teachers Leonard Gross, Wilmer Hollinger, and Dan Bodiker.
Bethany looks forward to future gatherings at Greencroft and hopes to provide more opportunities for interaction between students and alumni.
Melba Nunemaker, Paul Nunemaker (’61), and Jean (Lehman) Moyer (’61)
A Master Technician Restoring Pianos
Two miles south of Bethany is an overlooked gem of a business nestled next to a cornfield. A small, unassuming building beside a farmhouse is Chupp’s Piano Service, which was founded in 1975 by Dennis Chupp, a 1974 Bethany alum. He has dedicated his life and passion to piano restoration, leading him to become a Master Technician and one of the foremost experts in his field in the United States.
Dennis’ path to becoming a master piano tuner started early. His fascination with the craft was sparked in high school, where he observed a local piano tuner working on a church piano. This initial curiosity led him to think about a career of fixing things like his builder and cabinet maker father had been doing. During the tuning of the family piano by a local concert piano technician, he exhaustedly asked questions about the piano tuning business. The technician invited him to his shop to learn more and an apprenticeship soon started while he was still in high school. Little did he know then that the road would be the beginning of a career restoring pianos.
Under the tutelage of the regional Steinway & Sons service representative, Dennis honed his skills in piano tuning and repair. His dedication and talent were quickly recognized, earning him the opportunity for advanced training at the prestigious New York Steinway & Sons Factory. There he had the privilege
of receiving personal instruction from Fred Drasche, the legendary head service representative for Steinway & Sons. Fred’s expertise and mentorship were instrumental in shaping Dennis’ career, setting him on the path to becoming a true master in his field.
The family-owned Chupp’s Piano Service has grown from a workshop behind their home to a state-of-theart workshop that meets all their needs. The facility now includes an office managed by Carol, Dennis’ wife, a storage area for incoming pianos, three dedicated work areas for restoration, and a showroom capable of displaying nearly 30 grand pianos. Their son Tim is the VP of Operations and Sales and is a Master Refinisher, overseeing rebuilding production, piano moving, and scheduling. Daughter-inlaw Juliana contributes her skills in final piano assembly, marketing, and office management. The team is completed by Philip and Peter Balke, accomplished musicians and piano technicians who bring their tuning, action regulation, and refinishing expertise to the business, creating a harmonious blend of family and professional skills.
Dennis says, “Restoring pianos is a laborintensive business. A typical restoration, depending on the condition of the soundboard will take anywhere from 200 to 500 hours of work.” In his shop are multiple grand pianos in various states continue on page 13
Dennis with son Tim
Dennis with Fred Drasche in 1979
SENIOR Faith Statements
Jisel Lopez
I’ve grown up in church and with the assumption that everything, whether good or bad, happened because it was part of God’s will. I’ve struggled with this belief not understanding why God’s will would allow my mom to get diagnosed with lung cancer without ever having smoked in her life. Or why a few months after this my dad suffered a heart attack at the age of 42.
I believe that God is always ready for us to come to him no matter how far away we have strayed. Revelation 3:20 says, “Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.”
God does not intrude or obligate us to follow him; we all have free will. Instead, he patiently waits outside of the door knocking; it is up to us to decide if we will let him in or if we will choose to live our lives following the ways of the world.
Jisel plans to study nursing at Indiana Wesleyan University. She has longed to work in the medical field and says, “I think that my beliefs have really influenced my decision to go and help others and I believe I was put in this world to make a difference and try to spread the gospel anywhere I go.”
Art Purchase Award
Daven Molina
Proverbs 28:13-14, “Whoever tries to hide his sins will not succeed, but the one who confesses his sins and leaves them behind will find mercy. Happy is the one who always fears the Lord, but the person who hardens his heart to God falls into misfortune.” Revering God and following His commandments brings happiness and blessings, contrasting with the misfortune that befalls those who resist God’s guidance. Making mistakes isn’t inherently bad; how we respond to them matters. By acknowledging our faults, confessing them, and seeking reconciliation, we can learn and grow, finding mercy and wisdom.
One significant faith and life issue I am currently navigating and seeking clarity on revolves around balancing personal ambition with a sense of purpose and service to others. I wrestle with questions about prioritizing my personal goals while remaining mindful of the needs of others, especially those who may be less fortunate or marginalized. Additionally, I contemplate the role of ambition in shaping my identity and sense of fulfillment and whether it aligns with my faith values of humility, compassion, and service. In seeking guidance and clarity on this matter, I turn to my family and community for support and wisdom. Their perspectives, experiences, and advice offer valuable insights into navigating the complexities of life and faith. By integrating faith into my decision-making process, I strive to reconcile my ambitions with a deeper sense of purpose and service, ultimately finding peace and clarity amidst life’s uncertainties.
Daven plans to attend Eastern Mennonite University and double major in international business administration and marketing with a minor in Spanish. He desires to gain a comprehensive understanding of global markets and cultural dynamics. Upon completing undergraduate studies, he would like to pursue his passion of flying by taking aviation lessons.
Senior Amelia Stuckey is this year’s recipient of Bethany’s Art Purchase Award. Her winning entry was a series of three nature photographs.
In the winter theater production of Matilda the Musical!, more than 40 high school students took on the challenge of staging this large-scale musical. cast and crew members needed to be all in as they creatively found ways to make chalk write, to build a puzzle of a set, and to bring hyperbolic characters to life. An added delight was 46 lower school theater camp students joining them onstage during the performance of Revolting Children. The characters of the story—all exceptions to the rules in their own unique ways—discovered and harnessed their power together and then used it for good. It was delightful to watch students from ages 6 to 18 find their power and bring the story to life.
Choir Students Gather in Goshen
In April, Bethany hosted 220 students from eight other Mennonite schools for the Mennonite Schools Council Choir Festival. The theme for this year’s festival was Lead with Love and was under the direction of Goshen College professor Dr. Scott Hochstetler. The students rehearsed on Friday and Saturday and enjoyed fun and fellowship at Goshen College’s RecFitness center on Saturday evening. During a Sunday afternoon community concert in the incredible acoustics of Goshen College’s Sauder Concert Hall, each school’s choir performed an individual piece and then gathered as one mass choir to sing together. The students enjoyed making music with each other and making new friends throughout the weekend.
Athletics
Highlights – Class of 2024
Athletic Director Gary Chupp began the spring sports athletic awards program with a moment to celebrate the collective achievements of the senior athletes. These dedicated students have contributed to seven sectional championships, 13 Hoosier Plains Conference titles, and two state championship appearances. Gary, emphasizing community spirit, said, “This is one of the most successful classes, a testament to the power of unity in Bruin athletics.” Gary reflected on the top 10 career categories, “In a typical year, we would see six names from a class on this list. However, this year, we are thrilled to find 61 names from this class on the top ten career accomplishments.”
This year’s senior class included 17 scholar-athletes who maintained a 3.0 GPA during their athletic career. Six athletes received the Dan Bodiker Loyalty Award for participating in a sport every season during all four years of high school: Tyson Chupp, Justin Hochstedler, James Lind, Tristan Mast, Mariah Stoltzfus, and Zoe Willems.
Tyson Chupp and Zoe Willems were named Outstanding Senior Athletes. Tyson’s father Gary said, “These two have grown up together, are very competitive, and support each
other in their competitions.” Gary coached them when they competed together in basketball during elementary school. Tyson holds the boys’ basketball record in points scored (1,487) and steals (184). Zoe holds girls’ basketball career records in points (1,659), rebounds (885), and steals (355). Both plan to continue their playing careers in basketball: Tyson at Bethel College in Kansas and Zoe at Trine University.
Congratulations to all the student-athletes in the class of 2024!
of repair. In one area several keyboards and actions are waiting to be rebuilt with new moveable parts. He says, “A typical grand piano is made up of 12,000 parts, and the action or keyboard consists of nearly 8000 of these parts.” In a separate work area he has three pianos in various states of being restrung. In the back room is a refinishing area. Refinishing includes both the cabinet and the 400 to 700 pound cast iron plate. Each part is meticulously refurbished to its original quality. Sometimes individual parts are sent out for detailed work; for example, the screws for the plate are sent off to Chicago to be rechrome-plated. Currently, he has 63 pianos in process of restoration.
Dennis and his team have rebuilt over 2000 pianos during his career. His restorations are mostly vintage Steinway & Sons grand pianos, but he has restored multiple brands. Some were made in the late 1800s, and one was formerly owned by Kenny Rogers. The craftsmanship and precision of the nearly 20 beautifully pristine pianos displayed in the showroom is apparent. “The veneer on the cabinet of this piano is made of Circassian walnut and is native to the Caucasus region of the former Ottoman Empire and the Soviet Union, which is now Russia but most of the piano rims or cases are made of a laminate of maple and veneered with various woods such as mahogany and walnut.” Dennis sits down and starts to play. He says, “I consider myself a ‘hack’ at playing the piano but I enjoy playing. Two of our technicians are accomplished pianists
and are much better than I am. They are both in their 30s but are master technicians as well.”
Dennis doesn’t have any plans to retire as he enjoys his work and career. “The process of restoring and training others in the process is very fulfilling.” Reflecting on his time at Bethany he says, “The man whom I watched tune the church piano spoke at our church which met in the chapel at Bethany Christian when I was still in high school. He talked about his mission work in the West Indies and his passion for piano tuning. He was the one who inspired me and then gave me my initial training in piano technology.” This year the class of 1974 plans to visit Chupp’s Piano Service during its 50th reunion. Perhaps, if you give Dennis a call he might give you a tour as well.
Find out more about Dennis and his business https://www.chuppspianos.com/
Thanks to the Bright Future Campaign, Bethany’s new lower school wing will enable children in our community to experience Bethany’s unique, holistic education from the very start –kindergarten! We’re excited about welcoming our first Bruin kindergarten class this August. We can’t wait to open the doors, but the work is not done yet!
Here’s how you can make a difference:
WAYS TO GIVE
Visit bethanycs.net/ brightfuture or scan the QR code below.
Donate Today: Your contribution will have a direct impact on the future of education here at Bethany. Visit our website or scan the QR code and donate today!
Spread the World: Share our campaign on social media, with friends and within your community. Your network is powerful, and with your help, we can reach our goal!
Join Us: Consider ways you may help us reach our goal. Maybe it’s by becoming a vocal advocate for Bethany or by hosting a small gathering of Bethany alum in your home. Join us in making the Bright Future Campaign a success!
Dennis tuning piano
Dennis in showroom
Welcome NEW FACULTY AND STAFF!
Benji Hurst, Bethany’s current technology teacher, will transition to the role of technology director. He has been at Bethany for the past 14 years and has over 20 years of experience in tech education. Benji has a B.A. in elementary education from Goshen College and an M.A. in technology education from Ball State. He is well-organized, forward-thinking, a good problem solver, and has a clear vision for the future of Bethany’s technology program.
Madyson Kern will be one of Bethany’s new 5th-grade teachers. She has a B.A. in elementary education with a minor in American Sign Language from Bethel University (Mishawaka). She has taught 5th-grade language arts at Concord Intermediate School for the past two years. Madyson and her husband Kory (’18) attend Yellow Creek Mennonite Church, where Kory is the youth pastor. She helps with the worship team and assists with nursery and vacation Bible school. Madyson enjoys volleyball and will also begin her role as Bethany’s varsity volleyball coach this year.
David Stuckey will be one of Bethany’s new 5th-grade teachers. He graduated from Bluffton University with a B.S. in elementary education and earned an M.S. in educational leadership from Purdue University Fort Wayne. Dave has 24 years of 6thgrade teaching experience in the Middlebury school district. Dave and his wife Teneesa have two children: Amelia, a 2024 Bethany graduate, and Owen, a rising Bethany 10th grader. David is an aviation enthusiast and enjoys nature, astronomy, and music.
Cup of Kindness
Alina Bergstresser is this year’s Cup of Kindness Award recipient. This award is given to a senior who has exemplified exceptional acts of kindness, from helping others to showing compassion, that has left an indelible mark on Bethany Christian Schools’ community. High school Principal Hank Willems was honored to present this prestigious award during a senior recognition chapel.
Lynelle Yoder Hofer (’09) returns to Goshen as Bethany’s first Kindergarten teacher. For the past seven years, Lynelle has been at Freeman Academy in Freeman, South Dakota, where she most recently taught high school Spanish and was the spiritual life coordinator. While at Freeman Academy, Lynelle started its inaugural kindergarten program.
Lynelle graduated from Goshen College in 2013 with a B.A. in elementary education and minors in Spanish and TESOL. She enjoys spending time with family, experimenting in the kitchen, and running as time and weather allow. She and her husband, Josh, have two children: Gideon, age 4, and Lena, age 3.
Dustin Wyse-Fisher joins Bethany as marketing director. He graduated from Goshen College with a B.A. in communications, graphic design, and education and received an M.S. in technology education from Illinois State University. He comes from Illinois Central College, where he taught graphic design and multimedia. His previous experience includes building and managing websites, and maintaining social media.
Dustin and his wife Tiff have three children: Miles (16), Liam (14), and Oliver (11). They are members of Roanoke Mennonite Church in Eureka, Illinois, where Dustin has contributed to the administrative commission, led worship, and taught adult Sunday school. From 2011 to 2013, they lived and worked with The Corrymeela Community in Northern Ireland. His hobbies include reading and outdoor activities such as backpacking, running, and cycling.
Alina’s unique qualities have not gone unnoticed. One teacher aptly described her: “She is respectful to adults, cares about doing her best, and genuinely thinks the best of others.” Her positive attitude and respect for others serve as an inspiration to us all.
Another teacher expressed gratitude toward Alina, saying, “Even in the most stressful, challenging moments, Alina maintains a gentle, positive attitude. Her words to others are patient and kind, and I am impressed by her sincerity.” We are truly grateful for Alina’s presence in our school community.
Outstanding Service Awards 2024
Congratulations to Jen Bontrager and Sarah Yoder as the recipients of Bethany’s 2024 Outstanding Service Awards. Jen received the Excellence in Teaching award, and Sarah received the Community Contribution Award.
Jen is Bethany’s second-grade teacher. She has completed her second year at Bethany and in this short time she has made a significant impact within the community and in establishing the lower school program. Jen has a warm and caring spirit that makes the second graders feel right at home. She and her class are known for observing international and national days like National Dictionary Day, Chopsticks Day, National Pizza Day, and Sesame Street Day. One parent said, “Jen is a huge contributing factor to why my son never wants to miss a day of school.”
Sarah is Bethany’s intervention and special services teacher from Catapult Learning. During her last two years, she has made a significant impact within the school community and with students who are struggling academically. Additionally she has helped with coaching and at athletic events. Colleagues said, “Sarah is passionate about her students and wants them all to succeed. She is always wearing a smile, no matter how hard her day has been or the many directions she is pulled in.”
Since 1996, a Bethany family has funded this award to affirm and recognize the work of dedicated teachers at Bethany. In 2019, the tradition was changed to recognize two employees for outstanding service. Each award comes with a $1,000 cash bonus.
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DATES TO KNOW
AUGUST
Aug. 14 - First Day of School
SEPTEMBER
Sep. 13-14- Homecoming Weekend
NOVEMBER
Nov. 1 - Fish Fry
Nov. 22-24 - HS Play-All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten
DECEMBER
Dec. 3 - Giving Tuesday
Dec. 13 - Christmas Gala
JANUARY
Jan. 4 - Basketball Alumni Night
BCS Alumni
Join the Bethany Christian Schools Alumni Group on Facebook. Stay connected with your classmates while keeping up-to-date with what is happening at Bethany. Use the following link to join the group facebook.com/groups/bethanycsalumni
To stay connected with all the latest happenings at Bethany, follow us on bv
Music Department Awards
Bethany’s music department honored four seniors during the final chapel of the school year. Adam Siemens-Rhodes, Ally Barkman, Joryn Yoder, and Alina Bergstresser received a hymnal and a pitch pipe for their exceptional contribution to the music department.
The music department awards students based on their involvement in ensembles and individual music throughout high school. Students earn five points per semester for participating in curricular music classes such as band, orchestra, and choir. Additional points can be earned for diverse musical engagements such as participating in the jazz band, district and state music competitions, and church performances.
Alina played clarinet in the band and was one of the sopranos in the choir. Ally played piano and keyboard percussion for the band, jazz band, and choir. She also sang tenor parts when her low voice was needed in the choir and the musical. Adam sang bass in the choir and was a drummer and percussionist in the band. He worked as a stage manager in musicals and played in the pit during his senior year. Joryn played clarinet and saxophone in the band and sang alto in the choir. She also had several leading roles in musical theater, including the title role in Matilda.
The four seniors were all members of this year’s barbershop quartet, which earned a perfect score in this year’s state music competition.
