The Forum Magazine - Spring 2024

SPRING 2024

THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF CORAM DEO ACADEMY

CELEBRATING LIKE IT’S

1999

Page 4 Then and Now – the CDA Education Page 18 Grateful for CDA Alumni

Celebrating!

Illustr ated well by 2 Peter 1:3, Cor am Deo Academy perseveres in pursuit of the mission, the high calling of God in Christ Jesus to students, supporting families and churches.

1999

2000

2001

Flower Mound Classical Christian School OPENS at Christ Presbyterian Church with 57 students, grades 6-12

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2002

2003

The school becomes Coram Deo Academy and expands to K-12

2004

2005

Flower Mound graduates its first senior class

2006

2007

Collin County campus opens in Carrollton

2008 Dallas campus opens with 33 students

2009

2010

2011

CDA celebrates its 10th anniversary with 1,043 total student enrollment

The Forum Contents

Dear CDA Family

4 Christian, Classical, Collaborative Then and Now

6 Highlights of 1999 8 University Model® Collaboration

What a wonderful time to be alive!

Although there are many challenges,

10 Historical Moments

and so many things don’t make sense

14 Shane & Shane

these days, we are certainly blessed to

16 CDA’s Complete Class of 2024

opportunities that God has given us. He

18 Alumni

purposes. Perhaps the greatest of which

be alive in a time like this with all the has placed us here, at this time, for His is to raise our children in His way and

22 Cor Leonis: Heart of the Lion Gala

with His Word, step-by-step through His Spirit.

24 Full STEAM Ahead

Coram Deo Academy has been helping families do just that for the last twenty-five years. Through the faithful efforts of many faculty and staff along with our wonderful families, we have left a legacy

Production

of Christian teaching in the classical, collaborative model that has

Editors – Shannon Haynes Laura Morlan Barbara Rogers Karli Scottow Michelle Simms Tristen Wilson

impacted hundreds of alumni. It is so good to be a part of what God

Layout and Design – Andrew Kendall

is doing at His school.

Production Management – Laura Morlan Michelle Simms

I know you will join me in celebrating His goodness to CDA during this twenty-fifth year! God has been so faithful to us, and we plan to continue to honor Him in this work of teaching ethical servantleaders and wise thinkers—reflecting His excellence back to Him for generations to come.

CDA Campuses Collin County

God bless you all,

PreK to 12

PreK to 12

Dallas

Flower Mound

9645 Independence Pkwy Plano, TX 75025 Phone 469.854.1300

6930 Alpha Rd Dallas, TX 75240 Phone 972.385.6410

4900 Wichita Trl Flower Mound, TX 75022 Phone 682.237.0232

PreK to 12

President, Coram Deo Academy

Cor amDeoAcademy.org

2012

2013

CDA becomes accredited as a school system/ district

2014

2015

Collin County graduates its first senior class

2016

Jeffrey Johnson, Ph.D.

2017

2018

Current Flower Mound Collin County Lyceum main building completed finished

2019

2020

CDA’s 20-year anniversary.

Total enrollment 1,342 students

2021

2022

2023

2024

CDA Celebrates 25 Years!

Dallas Graduates its first senior class Total ‘23-’24 enrollment 1,748 students 3

then and now

While we have deepened our understanding of classical Christian education over the past twenty-five years, it is remarkable that the core principles that motivated the founding of Coram Deo Academy are still our core principles.

First, though it is true that you don’t have to be a Christian to learn to read, write, or do arithmetic, it is also true that there is no neutrality in education. Education is concerned with hearts as much as minds, and Christ must be the Alpha and the Omega in all our educational endeavors.

Second, the founders of CDA believed that many of us had been shortchanged in our own educations: the wisdom of the great tradition in literature, history, philosophy, music, and art may not have been put before us in grade school or college. We had not been given the gift of the Liberal Arts of the Trivium and Quadrivium.

Finally, as parents, the school’s founders wanted to maintain their time and influence with their children and still play a key part in their education, while at the same time providing them with excellent teachers and like-minded peers. After twenty-five years, Coram Deo Academy is still committed to being Christian, classical, and collaborative.

- CDA Founding family and faculty, Mr. Robert Terry

“

We seek to educate Christian youth to live all of life “Coram Deo” [which is Latin for] “before the face” or “in the presence of God.” This will prepare them for lives of Christian influence in the Church and the broader culture.

We welcome you to join us in the adventure of changing the world for Jesus Christ by training young Christians.”

Introduction in the 1999-2000 yearbook of Flower Mound Classical Christian School, later renamed Coram Deo Academy

Inaugural faculty photo: Mrs. Robi Marshal, Mr. Rodney Marshall, Mrs. Sharon Miller, Mr. Robert Terry, Mrs. Elisabeth Terry, not pictured Mr. Eric Schaefer

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PHOTO BY SEAN KURIYAN

Christian, Classical, Collaborative

CLASSICAL EDUCATION

Seeking Truth, Goodness, & Beauty In classical education circles, you’re bound to come across the ideals of “truth, goodness, and beauty.” Plato called them the Transcendentals – the properties of being ... the things that can be known: what is true, what is right, what is lovely.

He connected these three properties of being with the human capacities to think, wish, and feel. In the ancient conception, they also corresponded to studies: science (truth), religion (goodness), arts (beauty). In philosophy, the trifecta became logic (truth), ethics (goodness), and aesthetics (beauty).

Of course, the conversation didn’t stop with Plato, and philosophers, theologians, and educators (and many along the line were all three!) have developed the categories and conceptions further. So now it is a commonplace trinity. We can use the categories to think about and define both our goals and our methods.

And, of course, it is not we who decide what a thing’s purpose is, or what reality is, or what beauty is – God, as the Creator, defines these things. He Is. Because He Is, we can know what is true, what is good, and what is beautiful – the more we know Him, the more we both understand and experience these transcendental realities.

You don’t need to study Plato to have truth, goodness, and beauty inform your decisions. You don’t need to fully grasp how the ancient triad of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty leads us to Christ and a fuller version of ourselves.

At the foundational level, we are pursuing an education grounded in Truth, Goodness, and Beauty when we are putting God first instead of ourselves. When we want to know Him and His world, we will prioritize truth. When we want to love Him, we will obey Him and grow in goodness. When we serve others and reflect God’s glory through creation and service, we practice beauty.

(Adapted from Simply Convivial.com: How Truth, Goodness, and Beauty Fit in Real Life; by Mystie Winkler, Sept. 14, 2017)

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Flower Mound Classical Christian School Launches Two Years Later, Changes Name to Coram Deo Academy

I

$$$ In 1999

n 1998, parents approached CDA founders Rodney and Robi Marshall asking the question, “Can we begin a learning program to challenge our children that allows

us to stay directly involved in their training?” Current

Milk... $2.80 Bread... $1.49 Postage... 33¢ Gas... $1.22/gal Dozen Eggs... 89¢ Ave. New House...$131,750 Interest Rates... 8.5%

English Chair, Mrs. Wendy Powell, describes three families sitting at the Village Grill in Highland Village sketching out a strategy on the restaurant’s butcher paper table covering.

“We drew up a vision for the school and it started the very next year with almost 60 students. The school almost doubled the second year. The growth was exponential, and we knew it was a felt need for a lot of Christian families.”

1999

2000

Faculty in 1999

6

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

HEADLINES FROM 1999 Hottest Christmas Gift: Nintendo Game Boy

WORLD World Braces for Y2K Pres. Bill Clinton Impeached George W. Bush—Gov. of Texas

SPORTS

Top Song: This Is Your Time, Michael W. Smith (honoring students who stood for their faith at Columbine) Top Artists: Audio Adrenaline, Stephen Curtis Chapman, Avalon Kyocera Releases Cell Phone With Built-In Camera

U.S. Women’s Soccer Win World Cup!

World Population Surpasses 6 Billion

Lance Armstrong Wins Tour de France Yankees Win World Series

CULTURE

Denver Broncos Win Super Bowl XXXIII

Top Box Office: Toy Story 2, October Sky, Star Wars: The Phantom Menace

Dallas Stars Win Stanley Cup Payne Stewart Wins Golf US Open Wearing WWJD Bracelet

Barbie Celebrates 40th Birthday

2012

2013

2014

These 6 original faculty & staff led…

2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 • 57+ Students • At Christ Presbyterian Church which

2020

‘99 Classes Offered

2021

2022

2023

English, Math 6th & 7th, Algebra I & II, Geography, Latin, Logic, Speech, Performing Arts, Drama, Study Hall

2024

hosted the original campus • 6th to 10th grades Teachers/Leadership in 1999: Mrs. Robi Marshall, Mr. Rodney Marshall, Mrs. Sharon Miller, Mr. Robert Terry, Mrs. Elisabeth Terry, Mr. Eric Schaefer (not pictured)

‘99 Activities

Christmas Programs, Skating Parties, Shakespeare “On the Go”, Outdoor Lunch, Yearbook

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UNIVERSITY MODEL®

Collaboration

by Karli Scottow

Collaboration is one of the foundational aspects of Coram Deo Academy’s unique University Model® education at all three of its campuses in the DFW Metroplex. Most of the 1,700+ students are on campus just two to three days a week, while continuing their studies at home on the remaining days. Over the last 25 years, this format has proven not only to result in a greater love for learning, but also in better test grades, enhanced family relationships, and broader access to co-curriculars.

CDA provides a carefully curated, classical curriculum for both

While some students may learn at home in a style that is similar to

on-campus days and at-home days, where the parent becomes

a classroom, others may finish their home day academics at a coffee

the co-teacher alongside specially-trained faculty who provide

shop, playground, or even a public museum. CDA’s university-like

the curriculum, instruction, and guidance along the way. This

schedule leaves room for innovative methods within our timeless

collaborative model allows parents to partner with CDA to

curriculum. Many parents and students discover creative and

accomplish an exceptional, well-rounded education with outlets

memorable ways to complete lessons.

that allow their student to grow successfully in mind, body, and soul.

“One thing that has worked well for my family is practicing spelling

“One of the main reasons I love CDA and why our family chose this

on windows instead of paper or whiteboard. The girls love getting

school in 2014 is because of the collaborative aspect. Specifically, my

to grab an Expo marker and practice. A lot of times we will make

husband and I wanted more time with our kids! The collaborative

sentences or pictures to go with the word. I think it is just a break

distinctive of CDA rightly reinstates the parents as the primary

from the regular form of study and allows for increased imagination

educators in their child’s life the way God intended. It is a joy and a

as well.” - Tristen Wilson, parent

privilege to share my days with my children.” - Mrs. Kimberly Lee, parent and teacher

Mrs. Wilson says another benefit of the collaborative model is the freedom for increased physical activity. “I have a child who needs to

The collaborative model cultivates habits that can be seen even

move! When she was in kindergarten, sitting and reviewing ABC’s or

years down the road: the practice of time management, the ability

counting by 5’s was very difficult. Instead, we would jump rope or

to solve problems quickly and efficiently, and finally the heightened

roll a ball back and forth as we counted. The extra movement really

communication skills between the triad of teacher, parent, and student.

helped, and it was fun!”

Thanks to the flexibility of home days, one alumni family discovered that their daughter was able to benefit from an additional eight hours

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of sleep each week, even with late night practices for club sports.

Additionally, their daughter used the skills she attained while at CDA to easily handle the challenges of university academics while playing a college sport. Other alumni also share that the advantages of CDA’s collaborative model extend well past graduation, resulting in closer connections with their parents even after they leave home.

Deeper connections, richer learning, more robust access to fine arts, athletics, STEM, and other activities are all part of the CDA experience. It’s this effective partnership of parent, child, and teacher—with faith in Christ Jesus as the lead—that allows CDA to successfully fulfill the three “C’s” of their school program: Christian, Classical, and Collaborative.

“Home days are our favorite.

Being able to spend so much time together and seeing the fruits of our labor first hand is priceless. We like to mix it up when reading and take play breaks if needed.”

– Michelle West, parent

How to shape the culture of your home to grow ethical servant-leaders and wise thinkers for the glory of God Being Christ-centered, classical, and collaborative, Coram Deo Academy believes that home life plays an important role in the education of our students.

Therefore, the CDA Curriculum Department developed The Family Curriculum Series to support families in shaping the culture of their at-home learning days. Via videos and articles, topics this past fall covered spiritual growth through being rooted in God’s word and prayer, along with habits that create a love for learning and lifelong reading. Spring will delve into cultivating a heart for service, family meals and hospitality, seeking more time outside, and converting boredom into imagination.

Explore the Series Here “I enjoy the freedom that CDA’s model gives us. Home days give us time to fully grasp concepts, whether that be by utilizing study resources or giving us time to study with our friends.” – Christopher Rogers

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For Such a Time as This…

HISTORICAL MOMENTS IN AND AROUND CDA THROUGH ITS 25 YEARS! A student-favorite teacher who started at CDA in 2000, Bill Rector, becomes 2nd Headmaster, serving students from 2010-2017

Now, more than ever

In a culture where education’s focus was increasingly utilitarian, CDA’s founding families were part of the rediscovery of classical education with its emphasis on the good, the true, and the beautiful.

In a society where peers often had more influence than parents, they worked to develop a rich and challenging curriculum with a structure that reinforced the central role of parents.

At a time when many schools emphasized standardized test scores but had no place for prayer, their goal was to build a school where children would flourish, growing in wisdom and in the love of God. Twenty-five years and hundreds of students later, this vision of education is still the heart of Coram Deo Academy.

CDA Collin County

The campus moves from Carrollton to Plano and later opens its new facility in 2015

1999

2000

2001

2002

Dr. Rodney Marshall, founder and 1st Headmaster Founding parent, Mrs. Powell joins teaching faculty

2003

CDA Welcomes Mrs. Moer Mrs. Cavender

2004

2005

CDA Welcomes Dr. Heitschmidt Mrs. Hooper Mr. Davis Mrs. Cavender

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

Great Recession

Barack Obama, 44th U.S. President

Mrs. Powell, 2001 Mrs. Loe, 2001 Mr. Ea, 2001

Pope Benedict XVI succeeds John Paul II

Y2K “Bug”

Born in a year of fear, CDA held bright hopes for its future.

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The euro becomes the official currency of the European Union in 2002.

EARLY LOGOS USED BY CDA (TM) OF LOYOLA MARYMOUNT UNIVERSITY

After 19 years teaching at CDA, beloved Mrs. Ligon retires

Dr. Alan Marshall becomes CDA president, 2017-2021

1st major public website update

2012

2013

2014

2019-2020 school year—Quarter 4 of 2020 was entirely virtual due to COVID

2015

2016

2017

2018

CDA Welcomes Mr. McCrory

2019

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

CDA Accredited as a District

Lyceum opens at Flower Mound

Brexit

Joe Biden inaugurated as the 46th U.S. President

Dallas Graduates First Senior Class

The Dallas Campus will celebrate its inaugural graduating class on May 18, 2024, as the Rhetoric School continues to grow. Six seniors: Madeline Graves, Joshua Lloyd, Pierce Sullivan, Jacob Turner, Ella Williams, and Maggie Wilson have blazed the trail as the first graduates from the Dallas campus. These students are heading to schools including Dartmouth College and Texas Christian University. The graduation ceremony will be held at Binerri Presbyterian Church and feature Fr. Malcolm Guite, a world-renowned poet, scholar, and Anglican Priest.

“This first graduating class of CDA Dallas is special,” senior parent Ruthanne Wilson said.

“These kids have been through a lot together - created a lot of memories and established a lot of firsts for our school. They have also given up a lot to make this happen. They have circled the wagons so to speak to make this first senior year a success.”

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For Such a Time as This In her 4th year at CDA, Polly Dwyer becomes the Flower Mound Logic School Director, and is now Headmaster.

She is known for her deep commitment to teachers and their callings, for her enthusiastic spirit, and faithful center.

Bible-Honoring Culture

Starting with the class of 2002, each class selects their class verse in Theology I during their sophomore year

An original CDA parent, prayerful and insightful Barbara Rogers joined staff leading Admissions

1999

2000

1st Athletic Director, Donnie Brake

2001

2002

Founded in 2004, Facebook surpasses MySpace as mostvisited platform which today has 3 billion active monthly users

The beginning of MySpace

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

CDA Welcomes Mrs. Vanderhill Mr. Oaks Mrs. Garland

George W. Bush elected president Bill Clinton serving his second term as 42nd president

CDA’s history spans five presidencies so far

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The World Changed

September 11th reshaped global security, fueling wars, altering policies, and intensifying surveillance, leaving a lasting mark on history.

Sept. 11, 2001

2008 CDA Welcomes Mr. Stultz

2009

2010

2011

CDA Welcomes Mrs. Williams

& Mrs. Southerland

Mrs. Howard

Dallas Headmaster, Rev. Jon Jordan, becomes a teacher at Flower Mound. He is known for his warmth and wisdom with students, Christian influence, and pastor’s heart.

FROM 2014, COLLIN COUNTY’S 2ND GRAD CLASS

Famous Fab-5

Abigail Koons, Emily McCalley, Grace McClure, Melissa Mullen, & Catherine Patterson — standout students, each embodying excellence in academics, leadership, and character.

2012

2013

CDA Welcomes Mr. Hudler

2014

2015

2016

Donald Trump elected 45th president of the USA

2017

Robin Scott becomes the Collin County campus Headmaster. She is known for her vision and optimism, personal thoughtfulness, and heartfelt team-encouraging leadership style.

2018

2019 CDA Welcomes Mrs. Thomas

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024

CDA Welcomes New President, Dr. Jeff Johnson

More Connected?

Starting in 2007 the first iPhones and other smartphones took off with social media promising more connectedness, but CDA’s leaders knew growing closer to God and family matter most.

20 years of Making Music that Glorifies God

Mrs. Elizabeth Bowen, Fine Arts Department chairperson, leads the band at her 20th anniversary event in 2023.

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SHANE & SHANE

by Michelle Simms

S

hane Everett and Shane Barnard never imagined when they met at Texas A&M’s Breakaway Ministries decades ago that God would call them into full time worship ministry, becoming bestselling recording artists.

“We were both business majors at Texas A&M and really had no business doing this [music],” Everett explains.

Barnard agrees: “When God saved me in high school, I quickly knew that I wanted to live my life for Him. I had no idea what that meant, just knew that I wanted to tell people about Him. At A&M, God took a basically visionless business major, and in His

sovereignty, set me on a path to sing about the greatness of our God. [It’s proof that] God can take anyone’s ‘yes’ and turn it into something great for Him.” “The Shanes,” as friends and coworkers affectionately call them, followed that path which led to dozens of albums, countless concerts, and a long career of following God’s calling to “Sing the Word,” as Everett describes it. Shane & Shane are distinguished by their acoustic harmonious style of contemporary worship music that is deeply rooted in Scripture.

One of their favorite memories is playing at the Brooklyn Tabernacle in New York. “Every time we are there, it feels like heaven ... a large room filled with every tongue and every tribe, lifting their voice in full devotion to the One who is Worthy, King Jesus. It feels like heaven.”

Their latest album, Psalms, Hymns and Spiritual Songs, was recorded live at Liberty University. Barnard describes, “What an incredible experience in the midst of 7,000 students hungry for Jesus. Such a crazy blessing to have their voices fill the songs written from God’s word.”

In addition to their artistic endeavors, Shane & Shane have devoted themselves to nurturing and supporting fellow worship leaders and their teams. Through The Worship Initiative, they have established an online resource for equipping and encouraging those in worship ministry. It reflects their heart for mentorship to foster a culture of worship that is both spiritually authentic and musically excellent.

OFFICIAL PHOTOS PROVIDED BY SHANE & SHANE

The duo serves the Kingdom in many ways and will be featured as special guests at Coram Deo Academy’s fundraising gala in April 2024, celebrating the 25th anniversary of the school. Both of the Shanes are CDA parents and say they could not be more excited to walk daily with the CDA community. Barnard remembers when he and his wife, fellow recording artist Bethany (Dillon), visited Coram Deo Academy ten years ago: “We both left the school, got in our car, and just wept. We were so taken back of how there was a place where Jesus was the center!”

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He goes on to say, “I see my girls learning to work hard ... learning things that are helping them to see God. I see wonderful counsel coming from teachers and faculty.”

The Everett Family

When asked what kind of atmosphere guests can expect at CDA’s Cor Leonis: Heart of the Lion Gala, Shane Barnard says, “We hope that folks would encounter God on that evening. That, like Colossians 3:16 says, we would let the Word of Christ richly dwell in us as we teach and admonish each other with all wisdom through singing Psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratefulness to God in our hearts.”

Following God’s Call to Sing The Word As for what comes next for Shane & Shane, they share an eager anticipation for their upcoming project. “By God’s grace, we are putting together a third Psalms album and recording it live in the Holy Land, Lord-willing, with many of YOU with us!” Details about their December 2024 adventure to Israel can be found at psalmstour.com.

The two Shanes still find amazement at the joy of following God’s call through leading people to worship through His Word in song.

“The Lord truly put us on this path, and as time passed, our hearts began to grow to love what we do,” says Shane Everett.

“Knowing Him and telling as many people as possible about the glory of His grace through His Son, Jesus Christ, became the reason I got out of bed in the morning,” explains Barnard.

Everett emphasizes that thought, “The Lord has really developed a passion [in us] to see the bride of Christ adore their Savior. And he has allowed us the privilege to do that through song. It is an incredible gift and honor.”

Join us as Shane & Shane leads a time of worship at this year’s fundraising event The Barnard Family

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Class of 2024 16

Join us in offering

Congratulations

to Collin County and Flower Mound Grads, and the First Graduating Class of Dallas!

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ALUMNI Serving Out His Fullbright Scholarship in Kyrgyzstan

A

fter graduation, Conner majored in English, Chemistry, and Biochemistry at Abilene Christian University, where he worked as a teaching assistant and student researcher.

His research focused on the development a new method of DNA visualization and analysis.

“The Fulbright Award sparked my interest. I’ve always wanted live in another part of the world. I decided to give the application a shot.”

Conner chose the country Kyrgyzstan in his application because of the opportunities for students with a STEM background, and his desire to learn Russian (one of the primary languages of the region).

It also offered opportunities to visit some of the world’s most beautiful mountains and lakes, which appealed to his love of hiking.

Conner currently teaches in the city of Naryn and believes his time in Kyrgyzstan, with its challenges and diversity, have strengthened his faith. “If I return from this experience with a richer understanding of what it means to love God and love others well—even if I learn nothing else—then it will have been invaluable.”

CDA PREPARES STUDENTS FOR THE FUTURE “CDA influenced both my interest in global communities and my love for language. I started reading and learning about world history and cultures in logic school. Far from stifling my curiosity, these classes encouraged me to explore how other religions relate to my own faith, which prepared me for life as a Christian in a predominantly Muslim community. Humility, understanding, and curiosity—qualities that my best teachers at CDA helped me learn and develop—have been three of my greatest assets for adjusting to life here.”

ADVICE FOR CURRENT STUDENTS

Conner Crawford CLASS OF 2018

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“

“First, I would tell students that every time I prepared a presentation or wrote a new paper, I was developing important life skills that have served me well. Doing my best work wasn’t about getting a good grade; it was about Doing my best work [at giving myself the best chances to grow. Second, explore opportunities that seem interesting, even CDA] wasn’t just about if they seem like long shots. While there have been getting a good grade; it was other times where my work hasn’t felt like it paid also about giving myself off, submitting the Fulbright application resulted in the best chances to grow. a life-changing opportunity. Do your best work, and then leave the long shots in God’s hands.”

JB Lilley

CLASS OF 2022

After graduation, JB accepted an offer to study History and Politics at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. He will graduate in June 2025 with a Bachelor of Arts, after which he intends to pursue law school.

JB interned on Capitol Hill, and he was able to continue his New Testament Greek learning (started under CDA Teacher Mr. Guthrie) with classes at the Cambridge University Language Program.

“I would not be at Cambridge in the first place were it not for the emphasis CDA placed on cultivating good writing skills. My coursework in the U.K. is entirely essay-based, and Coram Deo Academy’s university model and workload prepared me well for balancing essay writing and social activities.”

Emily McCalley

Grace Kendall CLASS OF 2019

CLASS OF 2014

“At CDA, I was educated by a community of people—faculty, staff, peers, and family—all integrating together in a way that was a gift to me.”

After graduating from Baylor University with a B.A. in Medical Humanities in 2018, Emily will graduate in May 2024 from UT Austin’s Dell School of Medicine.

Emily appreciated the classical Christian education CDA provided which helped her “become a person who knows how to ask questions that serve innovation, creatively navigate problems, and to serve others.” She connects this skill with her patients as well, “Rather than just finding the paper solution, I make sure the patient feels heard... showing them that they have dignity and their story matters.”

Emily encouraged current students by acknowledging that CDA is a challenge. “The workload, the time management, and the way the classes push you can all be difficult. But, that doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong... That pressure gives students an opportunity to be pushed towards the Lord, to learn to trust Him more.”

The fall after graduation, Grace began a BA in Art History at the University of Dallas in Irving, which she completed in May 2023. During that time, she studied abroad in Rome and was given the opportunity to conduct her own art historical research on Romanesque churches in Götland, Sweden, at the end of 2022. She is pursuing an MA in Art History at John Cabot University in Rome, with the goal of pursuing a PhD in Art History and/or Medieval Archaeology.

“My early introduction to the classics of the ancient and medieval world shaped me profoundly, planting within my third-grade self the seeds of fascination with the world of the Middle Ages.

“Now, as I read dense manuals on paleography or look with wonder on the remnants of the world I began to love at such a young age, I often thank God for the mission of Coram Deo Academy, the school that gave me both a voracious intellectual curiosity and an abiding yearning for Christ.”

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ALUMNI Rachel Meade CLASS OF 2015

Rachel is a Ph.D. candidate at Duke University. This spring, she is submitting and defending her doctoral thesis in Genetics and Genomics, specifically studying the hostpathogen interactions that underlie tuberculosis outcomes. As a Eugene McDermott Scholar at UT Dallas, she graduated Summa Cum Laude in 2019 with a bachelor’s degree in molecular biology. Rachel facilitates the accessibility of science and STEM careers to younger audiences by hosting “Skype a Scientist” sessions for K-12 students, volunteering for community education initiatives such as DNA Day, and improving scientific literacy of the public through her written work and as a leader in the Genetics Society of America. She shares, “As a daughter of a U.S. immigrant, I aim to prioritize inclusion of historically excluded communities through science mentorship programs.”

Max Christianson CLASS OF 2017

Max is currently working in Los Angeles, California as a Concert/Music Industry photographer and a photo editor for a BFA, a company which specializes in fashion photography.

“CDA prepared me for these experiences and work by making me learn time management skills, interpersonal skills, and the ability to quickly learn new industries or skills to make myself more valuable. I also feel like CDA prepared my faith for the future and gave me a grounding in truth for going into the craziness of Los Angeles.”

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Kayleigh Longcrier CLASS OF 2014

Kayleigh is currently in a Family Medicine Residency with the Mayo Clinic in Mankato, Minnesota.

“I will always be grateful for my time at CDA and the skills that I was taught there. It gifted me with friends, teachers, and coaches who encouraged me to dream big and trust in a faithful God. CDA gave me the tools to become a more thoughtful, compassionate, critically-thinking, and hard-working individual. It helped develop a framework of what it looks like to work well with people (or individually) in a way that honors God and honors people.“

Savanna Morris

Parker Smith CLASS OF 2011

CLASS OF 2023

Savanna received a scholarship to attend Pepperdine University. She is studying Business Administration and pursuing a musical career.

From an early age, Savanna played instruments and possessed a love for singing. She recently released her debut single “sober.” as in sobering thought, on all streaming platforms and plans to release an EP in 2024 titled eventually.

Her hope is to impact the lives of those who hear her praise to God and inspire, encourage, and uplift them. The world is a dark place, and she believes it is in these times of darkness that God calls His followers to be lights and leaders for Him. “Through CDA, I was able to learn how to manage and work out my schedule and assignments. Since arriving in college, I have been able to utilize those skills and apply them to my classwork, tests, and projects. CDA offered a close-knit community with fellow believers that I continue to miss every day. The people and friends I made in my time at CDA not only left a lasting impact on me but also inspired me in my walk with God. Additionally, CDA offered many opportunities to connect with Christ, and I am truly recognizing how special that was as I continue my life in college. Being able to foster an environment where God is talked about consistently and where questions about Christianity are answered is an experience unlike any other, and for that I am grateful. Thank you CDA!”

Bryton Praslicka

Parker studied entrepreneurship and business at Texas Christian University. He says, “I had three simple criteria for what kind of work I wanted to do: be entrepreneurial, creative, and make a difference.” He is the co-founder of a digital marketing firm called Snapmarket.co. He is also an author.

His latest storybook, Good Night, God, is a bedtime family liturgy that can paired with music and additional podcasts available on Apple, Spotify and many other music streaming platforms.

CLASS OF 2015

Bryton attended Texas A&M where he earned a B.S. in Electrical Engineering in 2019, and Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering in 2023. He is the Founder and CEO of FluxWorks, a growing Space & Defense company, and serves as an Advisory Board member to the Terry Foundation. Bryton recently married and lives in College Station with his wife.

“My education at CDA was instrumental, both in my studies and now in my work. CDA instilled core values and rhetoric training that allowed me to stand head and shoulders above my peers, both when communicating my own ideas and in discerning right from wrong when hearing from others.”

“I was at CDA from 6th through 12th grade, which were highly formative years. I met people who are still my best friends to this day, sharing life and growing families side by side. In my experience, the relationships were rich. In terms of skills and coursework, rhetoric and the emphasis in public speaking built a confidence in me that still manifests in my business consulting, podcasting, or author talks.”

Carolyn Schoonover

DVM VETERINARIAN, CLASS OF 2003

After graduating from CDA, Carolyn went to LeTourneau University, and then attended veterinary school at Texas A&M. She now practices at Tara Vet Clinic in Colleyville.

During her free time, Dr. Schoonover enjoys reading, scuba diving, and spending time with friends, and with her husband, daughter, and their two dogs.

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Celebrating the 25th Anniversary

Reflecting 25 years of excellence for Christ, Coram Deo Academy announces a new name, a new season, and new special guests for its annual gala. Reflecting CDA’s classical roots, Cor Leonis is Latin for “Heart of the Lion,” referring to our wholly dedicated pursuit of a life glorifying Jesus Christ, our Savior and King of kings. Not only does CDA’s mission seek to educate Coram Deo, “in the presence of God,” but we are eager to become more Christlike, seeking the heart of THE Lion of Judah.

Contemporary music artists Shane & Shane will share an interactive worship experience, and the unforgettable event will include dinner, live and silent auctions, dancing, photo booths, and the joy of the CDA community from our three campuses. All proceeds go to supporting the mission of CDA and benefit each campus through special projects, tuition assistance, and teacher bonuses.

Saturday, April 13, 2024 R EN A I S S A NCE L E G AC Y W E S T 22

2022 Gala

from the

AN EVENING OF CELEBR ATION, SUPPORT, AND FELLOWSHIP

WATCH THE FUN! FROM DEC. 2022

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Full STEAM Ahead

BY MRS. STEPHANIE WEINZIERL

Mrs. Weinzierl, who is in her 14th year of teaching third grade at Coram Deo Academy’s Flower Mound campus, pioneered CDA’s STEAM program and currently teaches two Logic School STEAM electives. She also created a STEAM + Lit Grammar School elective that incorporates great literature.

The Weinzierl family has been a part of CDA for 20 years, and all three children are CDA alumni.

Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics

Many are familiar with the acronym STEM, which stands for science, technology, engineering, and math. STEM studies denote an umbrella of disciplines related to specific occupations. STEM courses have a utilitarian end goal for a particular use. The modern goal of education is to teach students narrow skills to fulfill predicted jobs needed in the modern economy. “However, what is needed are those individuals who know how to think and how to communicate.”1 In contrast, STEAM is not just an acronym, but rather a philosophy of learning in which the students are presented with open-ended challenges engaging the imagination and stirring inquiry.

The “A” in STEAM represents Arts. By engaging the arts along with the other subjects, the trivium, which is the art of language, is developed.

The arts are displayed in a two-fold manner. Firstly, each team has a presenter, who must speak to the other teams describing the team’s procedures and strategies of construction. They articulate their team’s thoughts or reasoning in terms of explaining logic, successful or flawed efforts, or new areas of discovery. This provides the opportunity for inquiry by posing questions to the presenter or engaging other teams to question or comment. All three stages

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of the trivium are engaged in STEAM along with the quadrivium, which is the art of mathematics. Students are willing to speak freely since the focus isn’t solely on the product, but rather a discussion addressing the journey. Secondly, some targeted challenges focus specifically on the arts. For example, teams may create a bat that flies, along with composing and reciting a haiku poem that utilizes bat vocabulary. Teams may be challenged to create a brand-new, non-verbal language to convey a message, or a new instrument that produces sound.

The teacher serves as a guide but does not provide detailed blueprints or expect a specific solution. Students work in multi-grade teams and are confronted with many constraints such as time and materials. A growth mindset is built upon the ability to make a second iteration whereby good ideas are made even better.

Students see challenges as opportunities to grow and push beyond obstacles. This creates a love of learning and a resilient attitude.

Teams pass through the engineering process of recognizing the challenge, imagining ideas, collaborating, assessing, and evaluating.

STEAM develops self-confidence, creative and critical thinking, team building, problem solving, risk taking, project management, perseverance, and communication skills.

imagine, to communicate—these are the skills the economy needs, and they are in short supply.”3 Author Eva Brann says, “The liberal arts scheme, has a time-tried integrity—it is at least arguable that language and mathematics are in fact the two root activities of the human understanding … just because they are root skills, they are always applicable to new matter. A faculty forgoing fields and departments in favor of the arts will not be doing what is sufficient but, perhaps, what is necessary.”4 STEAM is a wonderful course allowing students the freedom to develop global skills by becoming confident creators and practice the essential skills needed to thrive in an ever-changing world.

STEAM is not just an acronym, but rather a philosophy of learning in which the students are presented with open-ended challenges engaging the imagination and stirring inquiry.

In a liberal arts education, students are free to pursue knowledge for the enjoyment of the journey. They are learning how to inquire and reflect. In the words of Dorothy Sayers, “The sole purpose of education is this ... to teach men how to learn for themselves and whatever instruction fails to do this is effort spent in vain.”2 So why does STEAM matter? According to the U.S. Department of Labor, 65% of today’s students will be employed in jobs that have yet to be invented. “The skills required for success in the modern world are general and diverse, and the ability to think in complex ways, to

Teams in the STEAM + Lit class identify a problem that the main character faces, and this becomes the challenge. Students recognize the true, beautiful, and good within the story, as well as noble sentiments, all while solving the challenge.

1 Raising Human Beings in a STEM World, Martin Cothran 2 The Lost Tools of Learning, Dorothy Sayers 3 Raising Human Beings in a STEM World, Martin Cothran 4 Paradoxes of Education in a Republic, Eva T. H. Brann

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A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.

Proverbs 22:1

From the time we are born, until long after we pass, our names bear our identity. They connect us to our past and sometimes to the history of our families. They represent who we are in story of our lives.

The final page of your story shouldn’t be a balance sheet, rate of return or tax statement. Our clients desire more, and they deserve more. For your heart truly reveals what you stand for, your family’s values and the legacy of your life’s impact.

2024 Gala Sponsor

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At 22 One Advisors, we recognize the story our clients want to write.

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Classical Education Honoring the Presence of God www.CDALions.org

Collin County PreK to 12

PreK to 12

Dallas

Flower Mound

9645 Independence Pkwy Plano, TX 75025 Phone 469.854.1300

6930 Alpha Rd Dallas, TX 75240 Phone 972.385.6410

4900 Wichita Trail Flower Mound, TX 75022 Phone 682.237.0232

PreK to 12