Cornerstone Connection

Seasons from Head of School

Alumni, Hailey Burrow

Retiring Board Members & New Board Members

20th Anniversary

Sheepdogs

Daddy Daughter Dance

Bingo

CLAW Jr.

Athletics Winter/Spring Recap

TAPPS Awards

Warrior Classic

Warrior Houses

Students in Prayer Kids & Holy Week

Immersion Trips

Academic Advising

Parent Survey

SEASONS SEASONS

BY PETE VAN DER PUY - HEAD OF SCHOOL

There are many seasons in life. There are those that correspond to a time of year where we look forward to signs in nature that the season has arrived, although God sometimes sends us curveballs to keep us on our toes – 80's one day and 30’s a few days later. Sound familiar? Our seasonal wardrobes have been opening and closing in seemingly random patterns

Other seasons bring joy, tears, or both. We experience a burst of Spring with the birth or adoption of a child We experience Summer as our families grow and change and learn, milestone after milestone notched in our memories like the pencil marks on the wall where our children stood on their birthdays. We experience Fall as our nests empty, and we begin providing assistance to our own parents, shifting from care-receiver to caregiver. And we feel the icy cold of Winter during life’s challenges or the loss of a loved one.

Seasons are meant for us to experience and move through, but sometimes we can get stuck, caught up in our own story, unable to see God’s bigger story. We cling to His promises like the one given in Romans 8:28 where Paul reminds us as God’s own, “And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.”

Our partnership with you means that we travel the seasons of life together to encourage, support, and lift each other up when a season is more than we can handle on our own. It’s a beautiful thing that we get to do as a community. We invite you to enter this community, especially through the Parents in Prayer ministry where your struggles are lifted before the throne by your CCA community. I believe that God is preparing to do amazing things at CCA, and we are glad that you are here to be a part of it. Thank you for all you do to support and bolster discipleship training that occurs in your home and church. Let’s press into our great God and His faithfulness and follow where He leads.

CCA ALUMNI CCA ALUMNI

BY HAILEY BURROW

Howdy CCA! My name is Hailey Burrow. I am a CCA alumni who attended Cornerstone from my kindergarten to senior year when I graduated in 2020. From CCA I went to Texas A&M University where I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Science and minored in Geology. CCA’s university model style of teaching helped me adjust quickly to college even with the increased difficulty. The teaching style at CCA also pushed me to take responsibility for my own learning, to pursue curiosity on my own, and to think critically about the world around me, all invaluable skills to succeed in college and afterward. Teachers like Mrs Mathis and Mr Ledbetter also encouraged me to further pursue things that interested me, which helped me grow my passion for things like science and the natural world.

More recently I have had a wide variety of incredible opportunities to explore and learn more about God’s beautiful creation while also helping to protect it I have worked for the State Parks department here in Texas at Lake Ray Roberts State Park. I have also been a bird keeper at the Fort Worth Zoo, where I helped care for and educate the public about the hundreds of birds in the zoo collection. My most exciting opportunity so far has been as a wildlife interpreter at the Alaska Raptor Center, a wildlife rehabilitation center in Sitka, Alaska. I worked there as an educator (apple doesn’t fall far from the tree, eh Mrs Burrow?) doing tours for the hundreds of guests the center receives every day and telling them all about the birds there and the importance of wildlife conservation. While working at the center I have had the chance to see injured birds recover and be released back into the wild, learn more about wildlife rehabilitation and new environments, and even meet the US Secretary of the Interior! I am returning to work another summer at the Alaska Raptor Center soon, but after that I am excited to see what new opportunities I will have to keep being a steward of God’s Creation

RETIRING BOARD MEMBERS RETIRING BOARD MEMBERS

We would like to extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. Harry Ryan, Board President, and Jorge Diaz de Leon, Treasurer, for their faithful service and leadership on the Cornerstone Christian Academy Board. Their dedication and heart for this school community have helped strengthen our mission and vision over the years. We are thankful for their wisdom, encouragement, and unwavering support

NEW BOARD MEMBERS NEW BOARD MEMBERS

As we look ahead, we are excited to welcome Dr Tim Fischer as our new Board President Additionally, Lee Ann Watkins will step into the role of Treasurer, and Dan Van Roekel will join the Board as a new member We are grateful for their willingness to serve and look forward to the leadership and perspective they will bring to Cornerstone.

Please join us in thanking Harry and Jorge for their years of faithful service and in welcoming Tim, Lee Ann, and Dan to their new roles.

FAMILY MEETING 20TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

BY BECKY FUDGE - ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL

Kinder–3rd Grade Choir Shines in Leading Worship

Who knew that when we transitioned from a music special to a Bible special at the beginning of the year, our chapel time would naturally blossom into a beautiful choir experience? What a joy it has been to see our Kinder through 3rd grade students grow in confidence and unity as they led our families in worship to celebrate a wonderful year together. One of the highlights of our time was a special medley that included “I Love You, Lord” and “Oh, How I Love Jesus” two songs that have become part of our daily rhythm Each day, different students step up to lead these cherished songs at the end of chapel, and their sweet voices are a precious reminder of childlike faith and joy.

It has truly been one of the greatest blessings this year to listen to our students lift their voices in praise. What started as a simple change in scheduling has turned into something far more meaningful our very own worshiping choir.

Cecil Wilson has been a member of the Sheepdog Program here at CCA since its inception almost 2 years ago The program began after the shootings that took place on campus in Memphis, Tennessee. Michael Reed and his wife began to pray over something to do to help keep extra eyes out and be a deterrent here at our school. A notification was sent out and Cecil began to pray over his involvement. “I felt called to do this. I have two children in our school. We are all in a partnership with the school; we are all invested here, and this was an opportunity to not only protect my children but to also watch over all the students and staff at CCA.”

I encourage all dads to look at their schedules. “Everyone has an hour somewhere in the day even if it’s once a week or once a month.” The vision of this program is to eventually have a dad here walking around and always watching out during the school day. “For me, it has also been great exercise. It is a quiet time for me where I walk around spend time with God, listen to a sermon as I walk, and I get fresh air.” If you are interested in the program please contact the school and the school will get you connected with the right people.

Become a Sheepdog today!

CORNERSTONE CONNECTION

CANDYLAND DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE CANDYLAND DADDY DAUGHTER DANCE

BY CANDACE EDWARDS, VARSITY & JR HIGH CHEER COACH

The Daddy Daughter Dance, hosted by the CCA Cheerleaders, was a special afternoon immersed in a fun, colorful, Candyland theme. The event, held at the City Church Melissa, was filled with excitement, dancing, and so many memories for the dads and their daughters. We enjoyed hosting this event and appreciate all those who attended and created some special moments A special thank you to the cheerleaders and parents who helped make this a successful afternoon. We look forward to seeing what next year has in store!

FAMILY BINGO NIGHT BRINGS LAUGHTER, MUSIC, AND MEMORIES

BY DOTTI REGIER, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY LIFE

Cornerstone Christian Academy families gathered for a night of fun, fellowship, and a little friendly competition at our recent Family Bingo Night! The event kicked off with classic rounds of bingo, where kids and parents alike eagerly marked their cards and cheered on the winners of some fantastic prizes.

Cornerstone Connection

But the real surprise came with a twist Singo! In this fun variation, families traded in their bingo numbers for popular song titles. As the music played, everyone sang along, laughed, and tried to fill their cards with the songs they recognized. It was a joyful, lighthearted way to bring our community together and celebrate the gift of fellowship through music.

Thank you to everyone who came out and joined the fun, and to those who helped organize this memorable evening. We love seeing our Cornerstone families connect and can’t wait for the next event!

CLAW JR. CLAW JR.

BY PETE VAN DER PUY - HEAD OF SCHOOL

From Tuesday until Friday morning, the CCA 6th-8th grade students trekked to Camp Copass in Denton and attended CLAW Jr., where students were challenged mind, body, and spirit. Daily sessions prepared by their teachers engaged students in the elements of CLAW - critical thinking, logic, apologetics, and worldview in lively, hands-on sessions. Students also had the opportunity to learn a gospel-sharing technique called Three Circles, where they learned how to invite people into a conversation about salvation. These sessions were led by Denise Pacific, Jessica Knuckey, and members of the CLAW Student Rep Team. Several of our students put their training into practice when they had a conversation with some high school students from another school who were also onsite.

The afternoons were filled with free time where students could play soccer, basketball, volleyball, mini golf, Gaga ball, 9 Square in the Air, or even human foosball. There were also art supplies for crafts. Mrs. Dyer and Mrs. Glushko prepared evening activities as well as Clawlympics where the houses competed in a variety of activities such as long jump, a relay race that included some odd items such as Vaseline, cotton balls, and Legos. There was a hula hooping showdown, a sketch the Head of School contest, as well as playing memory match, puzzle making, and jump rope. Evenings held worship in song and messages from scripture, as well as a high school student panel who addressed questions about the move from Jr. High to High School. The talent show did talents were shared took home the top p

Mr. Van Der Puy w Growing, along with their 15 second test God truly blessed us great week of learni and memories!

WINTER & SPRING ATHLETICS RECAP WINTER & SPRING ATHLETICS RECAP

HUTTON FITCH, ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

The 2024–2025 athletic season has been full of incredible effort, remarkable achievements, and memorable milestones. From the Junior High courts to the State finals, our CCA student-athletes have represented our school and faith with dedication, sportsmanship, and heart. Here's a recap of how our teams and individuals performed this season:

2024-2025 Varsity Boys’ Basketball Team

This year marked the most successful season for Varsity boys’ basketball in recent memory, notching nine wins including a thrilling victory over the eventual district champions, Heritage Christian Their hard work and growth were evident in every game. With strong leadership and team chemistry, this group laid the groundwork for continued success.

2024-2025 Varsity Girls’ Basketball Team

For the fifth consecutive year, our Varsity girls’ basketball team claimed the District championship title! Their playoff run ended in a heartbreaking second-round loss, but their dominance in the district and resilient spirit continue to set the standard. Their unity and competitive drive make them a team to watch year after year.

2024-2025 High School Golf

Both the boys’ and girls’ high school golf teams are Regional champions and are now headed to the State tournament! We are incredibly proud of their achievements and look forward to seeing them compete on the State stage. Their teamwork and faith-filled approach to the sport have made this season unforgettable.

2024-2025

Our high school fencing team continues to grow both in numbers and in skill, showing remarkable development throughout the year. With a strong focus on discipline, strategy, and sportsmanship, these athletes have embraced the challenge of mastering a unique and demanding sport Their commitment to learning the intricacies of fencing and supporting one another has created a culture of excellence and encouragement. As interest in the program increases, we’re excited to see where this momentum leads in the coming seasons.

2024-2025 High School Swim

In a fiercely competitive field, our archery team placed 5th in the State among all Texas private schools an outstanding accomplishment that speaks to their focus and skill. Each member of the team showed incredible composure and accuracy throughout the season.

2024-2025 High School Fencing Team

CCA’s swim team made waves this year, sending three athletes to the State meet! Their commitment to excellence in and out of the pool has inspired swimmers across our program. Their achievements reflect the strength of their discipline, preparation, and faith.

History in the making our high school track and field program is sending the largest number of athletes CCA has ever qualified for a State meet! The future is bright, and we can’t wait to see what they accomplish. Their dedication, perseverance, and team spirit are truly inspiring.

2024-2025 High School Track and Field

2024-2025 Varsity Girls’ Tennis

First ever CCA Girls’ State Champion!!

Jasmine Nordstrom has etched her name in Cornerstone Christian Academy history by becoming the FIRST female athlete IN ANY SPORT to clinch a TAPPS State Championship! At the 2025 TAPPS

3A Girls’ Tennis Singles State Championship in Waco, Nordstrom delivered a commanding performance over the two days of competition, defeating Zoe Wang of San Antonio Keystone 6-2, 6-1 in the finals This victory marks a significant milestone for Cornerstone Christian Academy, highlighting Nordstrom’s dedication and skill on the court.

Our Varsity girls’ tennis team had an incredible season, taking home the District championship and finishing as State runners-up A special congratulations goes to Jasmine Nordstrom, who made CCA history as the first-ever female State champion in any sport! Her hard-earned victory has set a powerful example for young athletes at CCA

Not only is she a State Champion, Nordstrom is also the most decorated all-around athlete, male or female, to ever come through CCA She has been named First Team All-State in 4 different sports - Basketball, Tennis, Swimming and Golf!! She has qualified for the State Championships every year in all of her individual sports for a total of 10 trips to State where she excelled, consistently placing as one of the top in the State and putting CCA on the map.

She is also an 8-time Academic All-State winner with a 3.9 GPA. Her achievements bring pride to the school’s athletic program and also sets higher standards and aspirations for future athletes at the academy.

2024-2025 Jr. High Boys’ A Basketball Team

The JH Boys’ A Team gave it their all this season, making it to the playoffs and competing hard before falling in the first round We are proud of their commitment and sportsmanship Their determination and positive attitudes made them excellent representatives of our school

2024-2025 Jr. High Girls Basketball Team

Our JH girls’ basketball team showed true grit and determination throughout the season Though their playoff run ended in the first round, their teamwork and perseverance laid a strong foundation for the future These young athletes learned valuable lessons about commitment and unity that will carry into next season.

2024-2025 Jr. High Golf

Congratulations to our JH Boys’ B Team for a stellar season! The team advanced to the quarterfinals of the IAA playoffs, showcasing growth, hustle, and a never-give-up attitude Their passion for the game and resilience under pressure were evident in every matchup

2024-2025 Jr. High Softball

Building on previous success, our Junior High golfers continued their strong performance with multiple tournament victories. Their poise and precision were on full display. The team’s consistency and sportsmanship have been a shining example for younger athletes.

The Junior High softball team’s second season was one to remember, marked by exciting growth, energy, and impressive improvement on the field These young athletes bonded as a team and developed a strong competitive spirit They played with heart and showed what is possible with dedication and teamwork.

2024-2025 Jr. High Track and Field

Breaking barriers and records! The JH track and field team shattered multiple school records this season, pushing the limits and setting new standards for what is possible. Their energy, focus, and drive brought a new level of excitement to our track program.

TAPPS ACADEMIC COMPETITION WINNERS

BY ANNA BURROW, ENGLISH DEPARTMENT CHAIR

This year was CCA’s first time competing in the TAPPS academic competitions. We had 10 students competing in 4 different categories and CCA students placed in all 4 Top winners were Jenna Fischer with first place for Ready Writing and Reed Foley with second place in Social Studies. Jasmine Nordstrom was 6th place in the Science competition, Bella Penny took 6th place in Literary Criticism, and Mariella Johnson was 8th place for Ready Writing. Congratulations to all of our winners. We look forward to seeing our Academic TAPPS Team grow in the future.

Jenna Fischer.

1ST PLACE YEARBOOK WINNING TEAM 1ST PLACE YEARBOOK WINNING TEAM

BY DENISE SALTZ, YEARBOOK ADVISOR

The 2023-2024 Cornerstone yearbook titled “Unfiltered” was awarded 1st place overall among all entries. Senior students who participated in the production of the yearbook are Maddye Hornsby, Maddie Lonze, Mary Masters, Alexi Ore, Lexi Saltz, Katelyn Sorey, and Genna Welch. 2024 alumni contributors were Alexis Clancy, Nason Dorman, Gabe Foshee, and Luci

Academic Award Winners: Bella Penny, Jasmine Nordstorm, Reed Foley, and Mariella Johnson. Not pictured:

1st Place Yearbook Award: Genna Welch, Lexi Saltz, Katelyn Sorey, Maddye Hornsby, Alexi Ore, Maddie Lonze, and Mary Masters.

Mabrey.

CCA CELEBRATES ARTISTIC EXCELLENCE

BY CYNDI WELCH, JESSICA CHILCOAT, DENISE SALTZ - SECONDARY FINE ART TEAM

CCA student artists recently participated in the 2025 TAPPS Art Competition in Waco. Out of the 27 entries submitted, 14 received awards. This is by far the most in CCA history!

We would like to commend each student on their participation and offer special congratulations to the following:

2nd place – Piper Mathis for her painting titled “Nice Weather, eh?”

3rd place – Sophia Lee for her color drawing titled “Prairie Serenity”

3rd place – Samantha Raymer for her color seek and sketch drawing

4th place – Juliet Dimock for her black and white seek and sketch drawing

4th place – Mariella Johnson for her appliqué advent calendar titled “Countdown to Christmas”

5th place – Mariella Johnson for her color seek and sketch drawing

6th place – Mia Ross for her CD cover titled “Juliet”

6th place – Ana Arce Swartz for her mixed media painting titled “Childhood Adventures”

8th place – Mariella Johnson for her table runner titled “Good Fortune” 8th place – Mariella Johnson for her sculpture titled “Archie the Armadillo”

8th place – Sophia Lee for her mixed media titled “Shōtengai”

Honorable Mention Piper Mathis for her painting titled “Empathy”

Art Award Winners: Samantha Raymer, Jenna Mullins, Mariella Johnson, Piper Mathis, Juliet Dimock, Mia Ross, and Ana Arce Schwarz. Not pictured: Sophia Lee and Finley Wilson.

It has been a pleasure working with all of these talented students this year and helping to nurture the creativity placed in each by God.

2ND ANNUAL WARRIOR CLASSIC GOLF TOURNAMENT – A HUGE SUCCESS!

STACY LONZE, WARRIOR ALLIANCE CO-BOARD PRESIDENT

The 2nd Annual Warrior Classic Golf Tournament, hosted by The Warrior Alliance on March 10th at the Eldorado Country Club, was an incredible day filled with be some healthy competition on the green! We were thrilled to welcome 80 golfers and are deeply gratefu to our generous sponsors, Auction Donors, numerous dedicate volunteers, and the unwavering support of The Warrior Allianc Board members who helped make this event such a success. d generosity, we raised $13,000. directly toward fulfilling the item ne Art and Athletic Departments the school year.

something meaningful. next year!

HOUSES PARTY HOUSES PARTY

BY PHILIP LEDBETTER, HOUSE DIRECTOR

Our final big event for year one of Warrior Houses was House Wars, a series of field events held at the end of our new Spring Spirit Week. Students competed in water balloon tosses, a hula hoop competition, kickball, putting, and corn hole, and screamed themselves hoarse with every success. The final result of all this year’s competition was a come-from-behind victory for House Aetos! After falling behind early in the spring, the Jr. High contingent dominated at the Jr. CLAWlympics and gave their house a boost of momentum Going into House Wars the top three houses were withing a few points of one another, but ultimate victory went to Aetos, and they celebrated the fruits of that victory as they enjoy a barbecue lunch in the comfort of jeans at school. Thanks to all the staff, parents, and especially to our students for making this first year a success With many lessons learned, we look forward to a bigger and better year two Eyes up, Warriors!

STUDENTS IN PRAYER KIDS STUDENTS IN PRAYER KIDS

BY REBEKAH CARROLL, SIP KIDS COORDINATOR

We had 50 kids and 12 parent volunteers at our inaugural Students in Prayer (SIP) Kids meeting We learned the story of Hannah and Samuel and how God wants to talk with KIDS! We taught the students how to pray using the PRAY acronym: P is for Praise, R is for Repent, A is for Ask, and Y is for say Yes to God. Then, we broke out into small groups of 2-6 kids, led by a parent volunteer, who opened by praying over each child by name. We then practiced praying out loud using the PRAY acronym. Finally, we gathered back together to read a prayer based on 8 different Scriptures about wanting to learn to pray and be sheep who hear God’s voice. Every child left with a set of discussion questions to help stimulate conversations with parents about what they learned. As the playground of LEC filled with small groups of children learning to pray, I couldn’t help but be struck by how much God must have been smiling down on our school in that moment, glorying as little children came to him prayer. May we live up to our school motto of Pray, Train, Fight!

HOLY WEEK PRAYER ROOM CREATES SPACE FOR STUDENT ENCOUNTER

BY DENISE PACIFIC, SIP COORDINATOR & STACY LONZE, WARRIOR ALLIANCE

During Holy Week, CCA’s Parents/Students in Prayer Ministries and Warrior Alliance came together to offer a powerful spiritual opportunity for our 5th–12th grade students. The school was decorated with visual reminders of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, helping to center students’ hearts on the meaning of the week.

A highlight of the initiative was the transformation of Mr. Van Der Puy’s office into a dedicated prayer room Open during lunch hours throughout the week, the space welcomed students to pray, reflect, and be prayed over by caring facilitators. Many students took part, experiencing peace, encouragement, and a deeper connection with God

Parents and staff were also invited to join the effort through prayer and fasting, interceding for revival, healing, and spiritual breakthrough in the lives of our students. It was a meaningful week of faith, reflection, and community one that reminded us all of the power of prayer and the hope we have through Christ.

ELEMENTARY IMMERSION ELEMENTARY IMMERSION

BY BRIA CLEAVER, KINDERGARTEN TEACHER

Kindergarten visited the Dallas Zoo on Tuesday, April 8th. This was a fun way to end our unit on animals this semester We had the opportunity to see flamingos, lions, giraffes, elephants, and many more animals. Our kindergarten families enjoyed the opportunity to fellowship with one another while seeing all the fun animals at the zoo.

4TH GRADERS EXPLORE REVOLUTIONARY WAR HISTORY THROUGH INTERACTIVE PROJECT

BY MAGGIE HARRY, 4 GRADE HISTORY TEACHER T H

In January, fourth-grade students in Mrs Harry’s class received a unique opportunity to dive into American history with a visit from members of the Sons of the American Revolution. The organization, dedicated to preserving the memory and values of the American Revolution, brought artifacts and historical replicas to share with the students, offering a hands-on look at life during the Revolutionary War

During the visit, students engaged in a lively discussion with the presenters, asking questions about the roles and daily lives of men, women, and children during the 18th-century conflict. The event aimed to deepen the students’ understanding of the sacrifices and struggles faced during the fight for American independence

In addition to the presentation, students participated in the Sons of the American Revolution’s annual poster competition Each student researched a Revolutionary War hero and created a poster to showcase their findings. Local chapter members judged the entries, selecting several standout posters to advance to the statelevel competition.

A ceremony to honor the winners and recognize the efforts of all participating students is scheduled to take place in late April.

SNAPOLOGY & MARKETPLACE SIMULATION SNAPOLOGY & MARKETPLACE SIMULATION

KATIE SAYERS, JH HISTORY TEACHER

Our 6th grade students at CCA recently participated in an enriching STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Architecture, and Math) immersion trip, designed to complement their math and science curriculum. During this experience, students had the opportunity to build and code one of three weather-based robots: an earthquake simulator, a radar truck, or a snowplow In addition to the hands-on learning, students also enjoyed creative free time, where they added their own unique codes to make the robots perform fun and imaginative tasks. This event provided a wonderful opportunity for our students to explore STEAM concepts in an engaging and interactive way.

Mrs Sayers' World History class participated in an engaging marketplace simulation to explore three different economic systems: capitalism, socialism, and communism. Through this hands-on activity, students identified key features and distinctions between these systems while experiencing them in action. One highlight of the simulation was the capitalist marketplace, where students enjoyed creating, buying, and selling their own "products" through their privately owned businesses. This interactive approach helped deepen their understanding of economic principles in a meaningful and enjoyable way.

BY JENNY MERWIN, JH SCIENCE TEACHER

Mr POW Ponder visited the 8th grade Science classes Our students have been studying about weather patterns, clouds, extreme weather and ways that we can teach people to cause less pollution to avoid global warming.

A VISIT FROM THE MAYOR OF MCKINNEY A VISIT FROM THE MAYOR OF MCKINNEY

BY ASHLEY FITCH, JH HISTORY TEACHER

As part of our 8th-grade focus on civics, students had the unique opportunity to hear directly from the Mayor of McKinney thanks to the leadership of class president Breck Shannon. Breck took the initiative to reach out and invite the mayor to speak with our class

nment, the importance of community

8TH-GRADE IMMERSION TRIP: HISTORY, FAITH, & UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS

BY HUTTON AND ASHLEY FITCH, DC COORDINATOR & JH HISTORY TEACHER

Our 8th-grade Immersion Trip to Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City was more than just a tour it was a powerful experience that brought history, faith, and community to life in unforgettable ways Each day was filled with awe as our students explored the very places where our nation was shaped Independence Hall, the U.S. Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, the 9/11 Memorial, and more. They didn’t just learn facts; they walked through history, stood where our Founding Fathers once stood, and reflected deeply on the sacrifices that have been made to protect the freedoms we enjoy today. What made this trip especially meaningful were the daily small group reflections. After each full day of learning and exploration, students gathered in their groups to share thoughts, pray together, and connect what they saw to the biblical principles woven into our nation’s foundation. From the reminder in Galatians 5:1 that “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free,” to the truth in Micah 6:8 about doing justice, loving mercy, and walking humbly with God our students began to see history through the lens of faith

We were deeply moved by how our students embraced every opportunity not only with curiosity and enthusiasm but with maturity and respect. They asked thoughtful questions, showed leadership, and grew closer as classmates and friends

We are incredibly proud of the way they represented CCA and grateful for the ways God moved during our journey. Thank you to the parents, teachers, staff, and leaders who prayed, planned, and poured into making this trip possible Your investment helped create memories and lessons that will last a lifetime

KATIE BAUSLAUGH, HIGH SCHOOL HISTORY TEACHER

An 11th-grade field trip to the Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas offered students a firsthand look at the events surrounding the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The students explored the exhibits, including the reconstructed sniper's perch, the wedding ring of the accused assassin, and explanations of the various conspiracy theories They learned about the historical context, the investigation, and the lasting impact of the tragedy. In addition to the exhibits related to the assassination of the president, the students spent time learning about and discussing the Cuban Missile Crisis, a pivotal moment in the presidency of John F. Kennedy.

SENIORS DMA FIELD TRIP

BY ANNA BURROW, HIGH SCHOOL ENGLISH DEPARTMENT CHAIR

The Senior class studied how culture influences art and literature on a field trip to the Dallas Museum of Art. Seniors and their teachers started the day at Klyde Warren Park to enjoy the warm sunshine and eat lunch from the food trucks. Students then headed to the art museum and split up into teams and competed in a scavenger hunt for art that showed different characteristics of the literary eras we have studied this year.

HISTORICAL SIMMULATION CONFERENCE HISTORICAL SIMMULATION CONFERENCE

PHILIP LEDBETTER, HISTORY DEPARTMENT CHAIR

This Year’s HSC saw dueling committees trying to deal with the aftermath of the First World War One set of students represented delegates to the 1919 Paris Peace Conference, and the others acted as delegates to the First Communist International in Moscow that same year. What a joy to see students in suits, top hats, bowlers, and more than a few fake mustaches! What a pleasure to watch a highschooler stand up and loudly, passionately defend Italy’s right to provinces on the Adriatic coast! Our students worked so hard and researched so deeply as they debated peace treaties, women’s suffrage, worker’s rights, and disarmament. In some ways they bettered their historical counterparts, in others fell short, learning that every decision in global politics will set off a cascade of reactions that future generations will have to reckon with. With another global crisis safely in the past again, we look forward to the next in 2026 Many thanks to the staff and alumni who gave up their weekend to help run this for our students, and to our students for their passion and energy!

WHEN & HOW DO STUDENTS START PREPARING FOR LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL? WHEN & HOW DO STUDENTS START PREPARING FOR LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOL?

BY ANNA BURROW, ACADEMIC ADVISOR

As the class of 2025 graduates and heads out into life after CCA, it is time for the class of 2026 to start thinking seriously about their next steps after graduation. Here are a few basics to help you know when and how to take those next steps.

4-year University: If you are planning on heading straight to a four-year university, you should plan on applying this upcoming summer to the colleges of your choice. The two main application avenues are Apply Texas (https://www.applytexas.org/) and the Common App (https://www.commonapp.org/). Both of these sites allow students to enter their main information one time while also answering any specific questions or essays for specific universities. Most applications open either July 1 or August 1 and close in December After you complete the application, the colleges will email you a confirmation and information on how to login to their interface system to let you know what else your application requires When applying you will need: GPA, hours spent volunteering and where, clubs and activities in which you participated, meningitis shot record, transcript, test scores, etc – having this together will make your application experience a lot smoother

Collin College: For students applying to Collin College (or other community college/ 2 year associates schools in Texas such as Grayson, Blinn, etc.): If you are starting off at a community college or completing an associates or workforce program, you will not need to apply until the spring of your senior year. This is even if you have taken a dual credit or concurrent credit class at Collin during high school. Registration for summer and fall at Collin usually opens in April, so you want to start applying between January and April to get the best pick of classes when registration opens, but you can apply up until a few weeks before classes start. The earlier you apply the less stressful it will be to get documents you need and to the right people at the community college to get it processed

Military: If you want to attend a military academy such as Westpoint, The Naval Academy or the Air Force Academy, the sooner you know this the better. There are a few extra requirements including passing physicals, letters from your representative in Congress, referrals, and some extra classes you might need. Let Mrs. Burrow know so you can work with an admissions advisor to make sure you meet all the requirements. This allows you to go into the military as an officer (you can also go in with a four year degree from other schools). If you are interested in going straight into the military after high school, here is the link to those requirements as well: https://www.usa.gov/military-requirements. There are also numerous apprenticeships, certificate programs, entrepreneurial opportunities, etc. that might interest students. If there is anything I can help you figure out, please let me know and I will be happy to help see if I can find information or connect you with someone who might know about it if I can.

9th-11th graders: If you are not a senior yet, there are still a few things you can be doing to prepare Talk to people in your life about their experiences and jobs. Visit colleges both large and small, private and public to see what you might like. Take a course load that is the most challenging for you. Your 9th -11th grade scores and activities will be what college admissions boards are looking at so do your best. Find a volunteer opportunity, job, team sport, etc. that you can show a long-term commitment to and even receive some leadership opportunities in. Take the SAT and/or ACT in late 10th or early 11th grade. Just remember- just because you think you don’t want to go to college in 9th or 10th grade doesn’t mean you won’t change your mind before you graduate. Be sure to do all you can to give yourself every possible option you might want when you leave CCA.

PARENT SURVEY SUMMARY PART THREE

BY PETE VAN DER PUY, HEAD OF SCHOOL

In our last edition of the Cornerstone Connection, I shared summary information related to School Finance, Community Life, and Athletics. As I wrap up the survey summary, this edition will focus on survey results relating to Security, Technology, Culture, and Facilities. Following the same format, we will point out a celebration, an area for growth, and an action item identified for these three areas. CCA takes feedback seriously and continues to fine tune its programs, policies, and procedures to honor God and provide the best possible educational experience for your family.

Security

Celebration – Having an off-duty McKinney police officer on campus.

Growth Area – Ensuring doors are not propped open.

Action Item – Build our sheepdog program.

Technology

Celebration – The new website has been a great success.

Growth Area – Work on finding a platform that will handle multiple tasks.

Action Item – Continue to monitor student phone usage.

Culture

Celebration – A big shout-out to our office staff who ranked a 9.3 on friendliness and helpfulness.

Growth Area – Consistency in classroom enforcement of student expectations.

Action Item – Continue to offer open door for parents to come and share joys, ideas and concerns.

Facilities

Celebration – Summer work: remediation and campus improvements.

Growth Area – Lack of facilities

Action Item – Focus on land acquisition for facilities and/or expansion.