The class of 2025 participated in the annual Senior Walk allowing students, faculty, staff and parents to honor the senior class as they walked the campus wearing their graduation gowns.
Each year, upper school students participate in Winterim — a designated week for students to interact and build relationships with classmates and faculty in a less structured format while participating in a variety of common interest educational opportunities.
Knight Tank 2025 was a resounding success with 20 proposals submitted for the annual program that provides funding for a new event, class, program or curriculum based need that is submitted by a team of teachers.
Valedictorian Shenghan Liu class of 2025
Shenghan Liu has attended Charlotte Christian since fifth grade and named AP World History and AP US Government as her favorite classes in upper school. Outside of the classroom, she volunteered with the multicultural and fine art committees. Shenghan believes the CCS community stands out for how it rallies around one another. “Even when I lost motivation,” she shared, “the community encouraged me to continue fighting and overcoming obstacles.” Shenghan also reflected on her relationships with teachers as unique and impactful: “I really enjoyed one-on-one conversations with my teachers…I always appreciate their receptiveness and insight.” Shenghan will study political science at New York University (NYU) and is considering a double major in biology since her dream job is working in public health and health policy.
Favorite Ccs memory:
The tenth grade San Francisco Winterim tripsitting on the rocks next to the Golden Gate Bridge.
Advice for Future Knights:
Keep asking people for opportunities and follow up until you get a definite answer.
Salutatorian Kelsey Mayers
Kelsey Mayers began her Charlotte Christian journey in sixth grade and swam on the varsity swim team all four years of high school. She will continue to swim in college at the University of New Hampshire where she plans to study marine biology with aspirations of becoming a shark biologist. AP Biology and BC Calculus top the list of Kelsey’s favorite classes for the ways they challenged her, deepened her knowledge and encouraged her to pursue her passions. Opportunities to grow in her faith through relationships with teachers and classmates made a valuable impression on Kelsey: “I have loved getting to learn evidence for Christianity rather than just accepting everything because that is just the way it is.” Relationships with teachers who show support, offer advice and genuinely love the Lord also made a significant impact on Kelsey’s experience at Charlotte Christian.
Favorite Ccs memory:
Visiting the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland this past Winterim and witnessing the beauty of God’s creation with my best friends.
Advice for Future Knights:
Be kind to everyone and meet new people! You never know who will end up being one of your best friends in the future.
On Friday, April 25, Charlotte Christian students, teachers, coaches, faculty and parents lined hallways and sidewalks all across campus to congratulate the Class of 2025 for their hard work and success. With cheers, applause and encouraging signs, the community showed the seniors their pride and excitement. The senior class ended this special walk across campus on the athletic field where parents and faculty prayed over them as they prepared to graduate and begin the next chapter of their lives.
charlottechristianschool2025
The class of 2025 celebrated their hard work and accomplishments with a week-long trip to sunny San Diego, Calif. before commencement. The soon-to-be graduates explored southern California with excursions to the USS Midway Museum, Petco Park, Balboa Park, San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld San Diego, whale watching, Coronado Island, La Jolla, Torrey Pines, Disneyland and California Adventure, and Belmont Park.
The seniors also participated in a half-day service experience during the week. At the San Diego Food Bank, students processed food donations in preparation for distribution to those in need. One group of students picked up trash on the shores of La Jolla Beach with “I Love a Clean San Diego.” Another group helped organize food pantries and volunteered in the kitchen preparing to serve meals to those experiencing homelessness or low-income housing with “Feeding San Diego.”
Head of School Barry Giller traveled with the group and held a daily session with the seniors where he shared advice from God’s word for the season that lies ahead: college. In each session, Mr. Giller asked questions for reflection such as — Who am I? Am I normal? What do I believe? Where to next?
Hanna Ali McGinnis East Carolina University
Andrew Askins
Southern Methodist University
Julian Barker* Superior School of Real Estate
Bella Benton University of Kentucky
Cohen Bettencourt* High Point University
Margaret Biggers~* Clemson University
Kaitlyn Blackson~* Samford University
Marshall Blakeney~* Wake Forest University
Aron Boykin
Alabama A&M University
Evan Boykin University of Kentucky
Andrew Boythe~+ Cedarville University
Harper Brown~ The University of Tennessee
Abigail Bryant~ Samford University
Sarah Buchmann~ Career in Childcare
Mitch Burrus* Coastal Carolina University
Parker Cadd* University of North Carolina at Wilmington
Hendrick Carlson College of Charleston
Max Carson~ University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Sofia Cohane~ University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Abby Conde University of North Carolina at Wilmington
Walker Darnell Michigan State University
Logan Davila~* Elon University
Jillian Del Corso~ University of Georgia
Nina Dominique James Madison University
Nick Dunkley Christopher Newport University
Madeline Efird~* University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Cristian Fahami~* Clemson University
Owen Farrell Charleston Southern University
Addison Floyd~ Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Griffin Fox~ Grove City College
Sydney Francois~ Appalachian State University
Faith Giller~* Wheaton College
Cai Gillette Central Piedmont Community College
Landen Goncharow University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Holden Greene The University of Tennessee
Stokes Greene Queens University of Charlotte
Finley Griffiths Auburn University
Corban Hall~ Dartmouth College
Sophia Harris Fairfield University
Cassie Hendricks Appalachian State University
Brandon Hettwer~ Marshall University
Anna Hinde~* Florida State University
Caleb Hinson* Liberty University
Sanai Horne University of North Carolina at Greensboro
William Horton* Wheaton College
Darcy Howard~* University of Georgia
Zoe Huff~ University of Mississippi
Natalie Johnson~* Clemson University
Matt Jones Auburn University
Katarina Kay~ Clemson University
Anthony Korolos~* Fordham University
Bella Korolos* University of Kentucky
Maddie Kotula~* North Carolina State University
Jack Krause~ Auburn University John Lash Postgraduate Program
Jewel Lewis~ North Carolina State University
Shenghan Liu~ New York University
Maisie Macholz Belmont University
Sarah Major* Elon University
Egypt Maxwell-Wright Central Piedmont Community College
Kelsey Mayers~ University of New Hampshire
Jonathan McCall Liberty University
Ronnie McCoy Appalachian State University
Dickson McLean~ North Carolina State University
Ashlynn Miller~ University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Madilynn Miller University of Mississippi
Grant Nicholson* Wake Forest University
Eva Nieto~* University of North Carolina at Wilmington
MadisonRae Noble North Carolina A&T University
Caroline Noonan* College of Charleston
Rachel Padilla~ University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Claire Pannell Georgia Southern University
Jenna Parascand Appalachian State University
Alexander Paschall~ Davidson College
Maryn Payne Liberty University
Ashlyn Preston~* Abilene Christian University
Caleb Reilly University of Kentucky
Caden Rice Charleston Southern University
Piper Rozsak~*+ Auburn University
Grant Scerri University of Georgia
Myra See* Georgia Southern University
Griffin Shaw James Madison University
Emily Shelton University of New Hampshire
Kaya Shropshire
Liberty University
Abigail Smith~ Baylor University
Cooper Solomon University of Kentucky
Cate Spaeth Texas Christian University
Alesia Sylverain Johnson C. Smith University
Wade Thompson Wingate University
Katelyn Turner~ University of North Carolina at Wilmington
Beckett Vance*+ Penn State University
Mia Webber University of Kentucky
Nicholas Welburn~ Auburn University
Sam Zinger* High Point University
~ Honors Graduates * Lifers + Legacy Graduates
INTERNATIONAL
KNIGHTS AT HOME & ABROAD
Each year, upper school students participate in Winterim — a designated week for students to interact and build relationships with classmates and faculty in a less structured format while participating in a variety of common interest educational opportunities. From local experiences to the other side of the country and across seas, Winterim 2025 was one to remember!
CUBA | DOMINICAN REPUBLIC | IRELAND | ITALY | MONTREAL/QUEBEC CITY | PANAMA | PUERTO RICO
Serving with Samaritan’s Feet in Cuba has reminded me that love isn’t just a word—it’s an action, and as students of Charlotte Christian, we are called to step out in our faith, serve others selflessly, and shine Christ’s light wherever we go. I hope we continue to seek opportunities to be His hands and feet in our community and beyond.
- Maisie Macholz, grade 12
DOMESTIC
ARIZONA | FLORIDA | SOUTH CAROLINA | TEXAS
LOCAL
The Marine Biology Winterim trip to south Florida was unforgettable. From paddle boarding and snorkeling in the Mangroves to swimming with dolphins, every experience was amazing. I especially loved serving at the preschool for children—it gave me a new perspective and made the trip even more meaningful.
- Madeline Smith, grade 9
WALK IN THE PARKS | CLT CULTURAL EXPERIENCE | FOOD AND FUN | MAN UP | TRANSFORMING CLT
Man-Up was a transformative experience that challenged us to reflect on Biblical manhood and live it out with purpose. Whether visiting the Billy Graham Library or Hendrick Motorsports, we saw servant leadership in action. Each day, we discussed what it means to reject passivity, accept responsibility, and commit to providing and protecting.
- Corban Hall, grade 12
Disney World
Big Bend, Texas
South Carolina Fishing
KNIGHTS HEADLINES
CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
A PLATFORM FOR CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION AT CCS
Over 20 ideas were submitted to this year’s Knight Tank! Each year, Knight Tank invites students to submit a diverse range of innovative ideas to enhance the Charlotte Christian community and student experience. The collaboration between students and faculty is truly valuable, fostering an environment of growth and shared learning. The highlight of the Knight Tank process is the student proposal presentations. These presentations are not only well-organized but also supported by extensive research and clear, actionable plans. Dr. Kasay, associate head of school, passionately leads this initiative, which empowers the CCS community to take ownership of the school’s growth.
One of this year’s Knight Tank winners Ruth Bandy shared that her experience with planning and executing her idea made her feel like she could make a difference in her school by doing something simple that would ultimately benefit many people. For future Knight Tank teams, Ruth says, “Be open to other people’s inputs and ideas. I met some roadblocks in this process, but listening to the voices of students and adults helped me to get over those challenges.”
Fourth grade student and Knight Tank winner Hudson Prewette offered advice as well: “Be brave, calm, confident and kind and also be willing to help your classmates when they ask questions or need you to help them.”
This year’s winners:
PILAR’S RUN
BOOKMARK STATION
Fourth graders Kaden Powell and Hudson Prewette with faculty sponsor Mrs. Molly French proposed adding a bookmark station in the lower school media center.
Fifth grader Olivia Metzelaars with faculty sponsor Mrs. Lauren Gyorfi proposed Pilar’s Run: a fun run on campus in memory of Ms. Pilar Cayetano, a beloved Johnson group employee who recently passed away from cancer. The run will raise money to support a local ministry or organization.
MIDDLE SCHOOL CHESS TEAM
Fifth grade students Zealand Green, Graham Potter, Charlie Smith and Brennan Worthington with faculty sponsor Mrs. Danielle Record proposed a middle school chess team that includes membership to the Charlotte Chess Center and the purchase of chess boards and clocks for the club.
Through Knight Tank, we encourage ideas that align with the four C’s of a 21st-century learner: critical thinking, collaboration, creativity and communication.
PAPER TOWEL DISPENSERS
Upper school student Ruth Bandy with faculty sponsor Mrs. Kaitlin Pleshko proposed paper towel dispensers be added alongside the hand dryers to the upper school restrooms.
Small but Mighty: Pop Can Tab Collection
Lower school students collected pop can tabs from soft drinks, cans of soup and even pet food — all to benefit the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Charlotte. This may seem like a small effort, but collecting dozens of pounds of tabs will make a significant impact on families in our community who are facing medical emergencies and extended
Serving Together
It is so important for our students to learn about showing compassion for others. My class absolutely loved packing meals for Servants with a Heart.
- Christy Roddy, kindergarten teacher
Students and faculty from all three divisions worked together for an all-school serve day this spring. Partnering with Servants with a Heart, students prepared and packed meals that will be given to families in need from Charlotte to Central and South America, Africa and parts of Europe. Servants with a Heart’s Brandon Faulkner shared, “I appreciated the great parent and teacher involvement at our event. The kids were fantastic and engaged, and I hope we can do another event in the future.”
Requiring a team effort and lots of busy hands, students packed hundreds of meals. Even our youngest students were impacted by this opportunity and the chance to make an impact.
hospital stays. Ronald McDonald House Charities of Greater Charlotte takes tabs to their recycling partner United Scrap Metal and exchanges those tabs for money for their guest family fund. It costs RMHC of GC approximately $130 a night to shelter a family in medical crisis, so the money from pop can tabs helps them accommodate every guest.
total Lower school pop tabs collected
Mrs. Roddy’s class collected the most at 21 pounds of tabs!
AROUND TOWN - LEARNING IN AND OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM
This semester, CCS lower school students engaged in a variety of enriching field trips and hands-on activities that brought their curriculum to life. From exploring local farms and natural history museums to experiencing state history and even baking together in the classroom, there was never a dull moment for these students.
Junior Kindergarteners visited Hunter Farm in nearby Weddington, where they fed friendly goats and learned how to care for plants and even got the opportunity to pick their own flower to take home. Kindergartners adventured to Patterson Farm to learn about being a farmer for the day. Students “worked” around the farm, experienced various interactive learning stations and increased their understanding of the hard work and dedication it takes to be a farmer.
First and second grade students explored the Schiele Museum of Natural History on two separate field trips. First grade students explored habitats and discovered how different types of animals have adapted to help them thrive in the wild. Students were able to see a live scorpion, toad, opossum, rat snake and tortoise. Second grade students explored how bees work in pollination and mined for gems.
Third graders enjoyed reading Thunder Cake by Patricia Polacco as a culminating activity to their social issues unit. They then incorporated measurement and fractions from math as they baked Thunder Cakes as a class. In February, third grade ventured to Discovery Place as part of their science unit on weather and climate. Students participated in a weather lab where they rotated to different stations — enriching their knowledge of weather patterns.
Fourth grade students went back in time with a visit to Reed Gold Mine, a historic site where the first gold in the US was discovered in the 1800s. During the trip, students panned for gold and investigated the underground mine. The fourth grade class also visited the North Carolina Capital, legislative building and science museum. This unique opportunity gave students a chance to see where their state representatives propose and vote on bills. These trips support the science and social studies curriculum, taking immersive learning to a new level.
Grounded in Faith
ON & OFF THE FIELD
We were excited to host our first Faith in Sports night this year. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students and families to hear from high-level athletes on our identity in Christ and what place sports should hold in our lives through the lens of Christianity.
- Reid Fronk, director of major gifts and director of baseball operations
In February, Charlotte Christian hosted its first ever Faith in Sports Night. The event centered around the performance-driven culture of athletics through a Christian lens and highlighted how embracing our Godgiven identity and faith empowers athletes to play freely on the field. The speakers included current and former standout athletes who also have children enrolled at CCS: Andy Dalton (NFL), Wes Hodges (MiLB & Chaplain for Charlotte Knights), Mark Reynolds (MLB) and Sheena Williams (Track & Field). Todd Blackledge (lead college football analyst for NBC Sports and former NFL player) moderated the conversation. The discussion equipped parents and athletes to navigate a journey grounded in faith, guided by God’s principles, both on and off the field.
This spring, parents and faculty engaged in a three-part series based on Jonathan Haidt’s book The Anxious Generation. Licensed family and play therapists, pediatricians and other experts in childhood and adolescence taught participants how engagement with play, technology and independence shape kids in today’s world. They also provided practical strategies to help parents lead their children well through the challenges of navigating childhood and family life in a fallen world.
By incorporating Haidt’s data and conclusions alongside biblical truth, the panelists and speakers encouraged parents to consider what they believe, value and plan to put into practice in their own homes. While the topic of parenting in the digital age is often accompanied with fear and worry, 2 Timothy 1:7 reminds us that God gives us a spirit not of fear but of power, love and self-control—an important truth for twenty-first century parents to be reminded of. At the final talk of the series, Mrs. Lauren Gyorfi, middle school counselor, urged parents to consider the good news of the gospel and how it impacts their parenting: “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, ‘Your God reigns’” Isaiah 52:7.
All are invited to join us for one of our parent engagement opportunities this fall. From book studies to engaging speakers, these sessions are designed to equip parents with practical tools, encourage them in their own spiritual walks, and provide meaningful connections for families.
Scan the QR code to access parent resources from the Anxious Generation series:
Pictured (left to right): Todd Blackledge, Andy Dalton, Sheena Williams, Mark Reynolds
SCHOLASTIC WRITING WINNERS
Four upper school students earned recognition in the 2024-25 Region-atLarge East Writing Competition, which encompasses Pennsylvania to Florida. This talented group of students earned three silver keys and one honorable mention writing awards as a testament to their achievement in creative writing.
• Sterling Devin Grade 9
READING KNIGHTS OF THE ROUND TABLE
A total of 46 fourth grade students were awarded the Reading Knights of the Round Table medal. To be recognized, fourth grade students must have completed their Reading Knights requirements every quarter during their time at Charlotte Christian. Lower school students read 20,816 books this school year as part of the Reading Knights program, and 391 students participated in all four quarters. Grades 3-4 read a total of 583,688 minutes.
Silver Key, Poetry, “Colors to the Blind” Honorable Mention, Poetry, “Sir Spider”
CREATION ENCOUNTER
Students who just completed fifth grade had the opportunity to go on a Creation Encounter. This fun-filled trip included visits to the Creation Museum, the Cincinnati Zoo and the Ark Encounter, where the students learned about and enjoyed God’s amazing creation.
NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY & NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY INDUCTIONS
Congratulations to the 38 middle school students recently inducted into the NJHS and the 49 upper school students inducted into the NHS!
SPELLING BEE
Thirty-two lower and middle school students showcased their spelling mastery during the annual spelling bee. Congratulations to this year’s winner Mason Ledford, grade 8 and runner-up Olivia Friedman, grade 6.
FIRST GRADE ANIMAL HABITAT PRESENTATIONS
First grade students created a non-fiction book on an animal they selected, combining literacy, science, speaking, listening, art and technology skills. Students researched their selected animal thoroughly — specifically how God created its characteristics to survive and thrive in its habitat. Students collaborated with Mrs. Cannon in their technology enrichment class to create covers for their books.
ATHLETIC SPOTLIGHT
WINTER & SPRING ATHLETIC SIGNINGS
Thirteen student-athletes from the Class of 2025 committed in February and April to participate in college athletics in signing day ceremonies. This group joins eight other students who committed earlier this year for a total of 21 students from the Class of 2025.
BASEBALL
Wade Thompson
Wingate University
FOOTBALL
Owen Farrell
Charleston Southern University
Corban Hall
Dartmouth College
Brandon Hettwer
Marshall University
GOLF
Stokes Greene
Queens University of Charlotte
LACROSSE
Griffin Fox Grove City College
SOCCER/TRACK & FIELD
Nick Dunkley
Christopher Newport University
SWIMMING
Kelsey Mayers
University of New Hampshire
TRACK & FIELD
Aron Boykin
Alabama A&M University
Evan Boykin
University of Kentucky
Nina Dominique
James Madison University
MadisonRae Noble
North Carolina A&T University
Alesia Sylverain
Johnson C. Smith University
Thank you and congratulations to Coach Shonn Brown on a stellar 25 year career! Over his time as the Director of Basketball Operations he led the knights to 486 wins, 10 conference titles and 1 state title. Above all, did it the right way — pouring into the lives of his athletes and pointing them to Jesus.
KNIGHTS RECORDS
The following athletes posted school records for CCS the winter and spring season.
Softball
Morgan Banks
500 career strikeouts
Strikeouts - season -
202
Anna Hinde
Hits - Career - 161
HR - Career - 44
Highest Batting
Avg - .679
Runs Scored - 38
Base on Balls - 31
Swim
Kelsey Mayers
100 Fly - 57.55
100 Back - 59.09
Track & Field (Indoor)
Josiah Amasa
Triple Jump - 41’-9.5”
Aron Boykin
Shot Put - 49-5.25”
Evan Boykin
55m - 6.33
60m - 6.79
300m - 33.43
Peter Caswell
High Jump - 5’-6”
Nina Dominique
55m - 6.96
MadisonRae Noble
High Jump - 5’-6”
Long Jump - 16’-4.25”
ALL-CONFERENCE & ALL-STATE HONOREES
Jamal Rule
500m - 1:04.07
Long Jump - 20’-7”
Alesia Sylverain
Shot Put - 38’-2”
Evan Boykin
Holden Greene
Jack Krause
Nick Dunkley 4x200 - 1.28.39
Evan Boykin
Jack Krause
Jamal Rule
Joey Wynn 4x400 - 3.18.01
Track & Field (Outdoor)
Aron Boykin Discus - 157’-7”
Evan Boykin
100 m - 10.47 (NCISAA state record)
MadisonRae Noble
Triple Jump - 37’-7.75”
Jamal Rule
400m - 47.22
Alesia Sylverain Discus - 124’-3”
Joey Wynn
400 hurdles - 56.73
Evan Boykin
Nick Dunkley
Jack Krause
Clete Saylor 4x100 - 40.78
(NCISAA state record & #3 overall in NCall time)
Evan Boykin
Andrew Caswell
Jamal Rule
Joey Wynn 4x400 - 3:15.82
(NCISAA state record)
Congratulations to the following student-athletes on earning CISAA All-Conference and NCISAA All-State recognition for spring sports.
CISAA ALL-CONFERENCE
Baseball
First Team
Grant Nicholson*
Cohen Bettencourt
Owen Farrell
Wade Thompson
Second Team
Ivan Andino
Jack Beard
Matty Carroll
Dance
First Team
Caroline Harkness
Zoe Huff
Sarah Major
Kendyl Meisel
Savannah Parker
Adaline Robinson
Cate Spaeth
Golf
First Team
Stokes Greene
Alexander Paschall
Lacrosse (Boys)
First Team
Griffin Fox
Beckett Vance
Second Team
Corbin Corum
Grant Jenkins
Lacrosse (Girls)
Second Team
Piper Fair
Soccer
Second Team
Caroline Coles
Softball
First Team
Morgan Banks
Anna Hinde
Second Team
Sydney Francois
Stella Spang
Tennis (Boys)
First Team
Justin Persinger
Second Team
James Langdon
Allen Shirazyan
Track
First Team
100m
Evan Boykin
200m
Evan Boykin
400m
Jamal Rule
*CISAA Player of the Year NCISAA ALL-STATE
Second Team
200m
Jamal Rule
400m
Evan Boykin
110m Hurdles
Joey Wynn
300m Hurdles
4x100m Relay
Josiah Amasa
Robert Amasa
Jack Krause
Clete Saylor
4x200m Relay
Josiah Amasa
Robert Amasa
Evan Boykin
Jack Krause
Discus/Shot Put
Aron Boykin
Alesia Sylverain
Triple Jump
MadisonRae Noble
Peter Caswell
Long Jump
Jamal Rule
Triple Jump
Clete Saylor
Wrestling First Team
Jason Deleon
Harrison Landon
Max McNeer
Second Team
Charlie Jenkins
Beck McNeer
Baseball
Grant Nicholson
Owen Farrell
Wade Thompson
Golf (Boys)
Alexander Paschall
Softball
Morgan Banks
Anna Hinde
Stella Spang
Tennis (Boys)
Justin Persinger
Track
Josiah Amasa
Evan Boykin
Andrew Caswell
Peter Caswell
Maddie Dawson
Nina Dominique
Nick Dunkley
Bella Eudy
Jack Krause
MadisonRae Noble
Jamal Rule
Clete Saylor
Alesia Sylverain
Joey Wynn
UPPER SCHOOL MUSICAL: FREAKY FRIDAY
A dedicated and gifted cast of thirty upper school students brought Disney’s Freaky Friday to life on stage in February. This story, set in the early nineties, reminded audiences just how valuable it can be to spend another day in someone else’s shoes and the healing power of giving and receiving grace.
KINGDOM COLLABORATION
KNIGHT OF THE ARTS
The incredible efforts of our JK-12 Fine Arts students were celebrated at the annual Knight of the Arts event with captivating sights and sounds. Families enjoyed outdoor fun with face painting, make and take crafts, concessions, a photo wall and live music performed by the US UKnight Worship team. The KnightVision gallery crawl was set up throughout campus, transforming our hallways into our very own museum with close to a thousand pieces of art. The evening concluded with a concert featuring the upper school choir, band and orchestra.
Upper school visual art teacher Mr. Bryn Gillette has used his gifts and talents in partnership with the Lausanne Movement to help spread the gospel worldwide. The Kingdom Collaboration exhibit included a collection of art from Bryn’s decade-long partnership with Lausanne; Dr. Leighton Ford, director emeritus of the Lausanne movement; Alexis Newsom, Lausanne collaborator; and collaborative pieces painted by Charlotte Christian visual art students.
SCHOLASTIC ART AWARDS
LOWER SCHOOL MUSICAL: ANNIE KIDS
Seventy five third and fourth grade students shone brightly in the spring lower school production of Annie KIDS in April! The courageous and talented cast made their theatre debut to sold out crowds and brought this Broadway classic to life through song and dance.
Seven upper school students earned national recognition in the 2025 Mid-Carolina Regional Scholastic Art Competition:
• Parker Cadd, Grade 12
Regional Gold Key Winner
- Time Portfolio (Digital Art Portfolio)
• Claira Cummings, Grade 9
Regional Gold Key Winner
- Hidden ( Photography)
• Kea Gillette, Grade 10
Honorable Mention
- Restoration (Painting)
• Katie Joe, Grade 11
Regional Gold Key Winner
- LET ME OUT! (Painting)
- Reflections of Dysmorphia (Painting)
- Sewing Myself Together (Mixed Media)
- Thinning (Painting)
Honorable Mention
- Cover My Insecurities (Painting)
- Stained in Bed (Mixed Media)
• Addison Rohm, Grade 11
Honorable Mention
- Danes avec Moi ( Painting)
• Jurney Schneck, Grade 11
Regional Gold Key Winner
- The Encounter ( Digital Art)
Honorable Mention
- The Serenity (Digital Art)
- A Small World (Drawing & Illustration)
• Madeline Smith, Grade 9
Regional Gold Key Winner
- The Streets of Gold (Printmaking)
Black History Month: Embracing Diversity and Connection
In celebration of Black History Month, both upper and middle school students heard inspiring testimonies and motivational words from a range of speakers within the Charlotte community. The speakers shared their own personal faith journeys, the professional work and ministries that they serve in, and the importance of Black History Month, both in their lives and in the lives of all people. Students were encouraged to make their own personal connections to the stories that they heard and were challenged to think of ways that they can create a positive impact and change in the spaces that God has called them to, including the Charlotte Christian community. In addition to this engaging experience, students in all divisions participated in a variety of educational experiences related to Black History Month, with some examples including weekly advisory lessons, intentional classroom discussions and project-based learning. We are thankful for the ways our faculty and staff continue to provide opportunities for students to engage with multicultural learning and expand their global awareness.
Black History Month Speakers
• David Arrington Community Leader and Artist
• Coach Anthony Gill JV Basketball Coach, CCS Alum Parent, Sales Professional, President & CEO of X Limits X Boundaries, Inc.
• Robin Krcelic CCS LS parent, Bank Accountant
• Josh Lawrence CCS MS Parent, Financial Consultant
• Meredith Ledford CCS MS Parent, Real Estate CEO
• Pier Scott CCS US Parent, CCS Board of Trustees Member
• Mike Slaughter Associate Minister, Nikao Church
• Alex & Jozi Walker CCS Parents
Alex - Real Estate Developer
Jozi - Director of Diversity, Belonging, and Global Awareness
Japanese Exchange Program: Trampolines, Surprise Parties and a Shared Love of Basketball
For the fifth time, Charlotte Christian School participated in the Japanese Exchange Program with Yamate Gakuin High School. Senior Robert Amasa, a member of the upper school Global Knights, was paired as a student buddy with a Japanese student, and his family also hosted two students. Robert was surprised that he was able to become friends with the visiting students so quickly, noting that their shared love of Lebron James was a fun commonality. The Amasas even planned a surprise birthday party for their guests at their home before they returned to Japan. Another host family, the Everetts, loved getting to know the everyday routines of their guests, noting that their love of rice and miso soup for breakfast was surprisingly tasty to all of them. A trip to the Whitewater Center, nightly trampoline jumping and shared interests in pop culture made the two weeks memorable for all of them. This impactful experience exemplifies loving others well and purposefully learning from another’s life experiences.
ROmans 12: End of year celebration
Multicultural
Day
In May, the Romans 12 community gathered to celebrate the conclusion of the school year and another year of growth and connection through R12. Celebrating the ways God continues to work at CCS included hearing testimonies and reflections from the R12 community, further highlighting the purpose of Romans 12 and the direct impact that these groups have on campus.
Lessons:
Made in God’s Image and Uniquely Designed
The annual Multicultural Day festivities continue to be a highlight on campus as lower school students spend the day learning about different cultures, tasting new foods, performing dances and songs from around the globe and participating in unique games and crafts. A team of upper school students also assists Mrs. Jozi Walker and Señor Fermin Abarca in making this day successful from the planning stages to the execution of the day’s activities.
Leaving Legacies
Retiring Faculty & Staff
Becca Edwards
49 years in education
Mrs. Edwards leaves behind an amazing legacy at Charlotte Christian. Through her hard work, intentionality and passionate love for our youngest learners, she planted seeds of faith and knowledge that have yielded a harvest in the lives of hundreds of CCS graduates.
Donn Headley
48 years in education
Dr. Headley served at CCS with genuine devotion and modeled a life of faith that inspired students to pursue a relationship with Christ. Dr. Headley fostered a strong sense of community in the classroom and encouraged students to live out their faith.
Joe Rego
44 years in education
Mr. Rego worked tirelessly, equipping students to use their knowledge and skills to serve God. Mr. Rego exemplified the mission of CCS by preparing students for academic success and instilling in them a desire to serve others.
Ben Ector
40
years in education
Mr. Ector dedicated his career to Charlotte Christian, fostering a classroom environment where students learned from a biblical worldview. Mr. Ector fulfilled the mission of CCS by consistently integrating biblical principles into his teaching.
Colleen Barnwell
26 years in education
Mrs. Barnwell blessed the school with a strong passion for Biblical truth and learning. Her instruction and example helped her students grow in their walks with Christ, and she enriched our school community with her wisdom and experience as a veteran teacher.
Eddie Horne
25
years in education
Eddie was a cornerstone of the technology team at CCS, quietly serving behind the scenes with unwavering dedication and an uplifting positive attitude. His steadfast loyalty and heartfelt concern for the team cultivated an atmosphere of trust and togetherness.
Dale Farish
23 years in education
Mrs. Farish served the lower school faithfully during her time at Charlotte Christian. Through her patient and loving support, her students grew in independence and confidence in their younger years, creating a firm foundation.
Beth Tiess
23 years in education
Mrs. Tiess’s passion for God’s creation was always rooted in her deep faith. Of the many marks she leaves on our school, the beloved seventh grade life science museum is among the favorites. Her dedication will be missed, but her legacy of knowledge and care will endure.
Patrice Gottcent 20 years in education
Mrs. Gottcent’s steadfast work in the classroom blessed teachers and students alike. Mrs. Gottcent exemplified what it means to show the love of Jesus as she took interest in her students, consistently providing gentle and gracious care.
FOREVER A KNIGHT A COMMUNITY THAT CARES
Alumni Scott Glover (‘09) shares what the Charlotte Christian community meant to him during a recent hardship he faced.
“In November, I suffered a major injury when I fell from the roof of my house. I do not recall much of the first 24 hours after the fall, but there was quite a bit of uncertainty regarding the severity of my injuries. My poor wife Ashley found me just minutes after I fell, and from there EMS responded quickly and I was rushed to Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center (CMC). During the initial workup in the emergency room, I was found to have many fractures, including several in my thoracic spine. By the grace of God through His mercy, I was able to undergo a surgery to stabilize my spine. Because of the diligent work of the excellent team of physicians and providers in the CMC emergency room, as well as the follow-up work performed by the trauma team and neurosurgery team, I have now made a remarkable recovery with no major lasting issues.
In addition to my family, friends and church, Charlotte Christian and the alumni board were among the first people to reach out with support and prayers. Several friends from CCS, as well as staff members, were wonderful in sending many prayers, cards, phone calls and messages of encouragement and support. People also generously sent many meals to make life a little easier for our family in the first days after coming home from the weeklong hospitalization.
I am thankful for the ways Charlotte Christian was instrumental in my recovery, and I know the many prayers prayed on my behalf helped me to be where I am today. The Christian foundation I received while I was a student at CCS helped shape me into the person I have become, and I know without God’s perfect plan, my hope in recovery would have been vastly different. My desire is that I will be able to use the difficult time I lived through to help others and to give God glory for His miraculous provision.”
GAME CHANGER: CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN’S NEW ATHLETIC CENTER
Our master campus plan is nearing completion as fundraising is wrapping up for the Athletic Center. This new, state-of-the-art facility will cost $25 million and be located at the top of the hill overlooking Knights Stadium. The more than 53,000 square foot center will house the main competition gym, athletic performance center, wrestling room, multipurpose room, locker rooms, Hall of Honor, athletic officies, school store and concessions. Construction is expected to commence in Fall 2025 and should complete in October 2026. We can’t wait to see how the Lord will use this space in the years to come.
calling all charlotte christian grandparents:
As part of this exciting project, we are creating a special Grandparent Donor Wall to recognize the generous support of grandparents support the school and its vital mission. For a pledge of $10,000, payable over two years, grandparents’ names will be prominently displayed on this wall — along with the names of their grandchildren — as a lasting testament to their commitment to our students and their development. Scan the QR code to join the wall.
charlotte christian school ‘25
Sporting Clays Tournament
Title Sponsor: Special thanks to...
Partner Sponsors:
The tenth annual Sporting Clays Tournament took place in May at Meadow Wood. Members of our community enjoyed morning and afternoon flights of shooting clays, lunch and a silent auction where more than $40,000 was raised for the Annual Fund. The silent auction included donations from DryBar, Hendrick MotorSports, Robinson Orthodontics, Carolina Sporting Arms and more.
The Charlotte Christian Annual fund is the foundation of Charlotte Christian School and allows us to fulfill our mission and impact our students for a lifetime. We thank you for your selfless giving and heart of service that has worked to advance Charlotte Christian’s mission.
This May, Charlotte Christian hosted a morning Ladies’ Tea with special guest speaker and a Charlotte Christian grandparent Jan Harrison. Open to any woman in the CCS community, the Ladies’ Tea included light refreshments and encouragement as Jan shared her personal story of Christ’s work in her life through God’s Word, the Holy Spirit and prayer.
$110,677 in 24 hours!
Charlotte Christian hosted its seventh annual 24 Hour Giving Day Challenge on March 11. 224 donors contributed to the campaign, allowing us to surpass our goal of $75,000 and unlock a $25,000 match from a generous donor! Thank you to the parents, grandparents, alumni, employees and friends whose generosity made Giving Day a success. This year’s proceeds will contribute to the construction of a lower school classroom and faculty workroom renovations.
CLASS NOTES
Send your alumni news to: alumni@charchrist.com
Jack Howard just received his Masters of Computer Science from NC State but is taking a hard left turn into a ministry position with Reformed University Fellowship (RUF) in Seattle at The University of Washington. As a campus intern, he’ll be learning the ropes of vocational ministry through evangelism, discipleship and study on one of the Church’s most contested battlegrounds: the college campus.
Chris Lohoff-Gaida married fellow alum Julia Hannum (‘18) outside of Nashville, Tenn. Several Charlotte Christian alum were included in the wedding party, including Julia Parker (Kocher) (‘18), Savannah Kasey (‘20), Willi LohoffGaida (‘18), Andrew Brannon (‘18), Jacob Giller (‘18), CJ Hannum (‘20), Alex Nations (‘18) and Keaton Gum (‘18).
AnnBrendle Allbert earned her bachelor’s degree in Integrated Marketing Communications with a minor in General Business from Ole Miss in 2020, and now lives in Los Angeles. She has recently been promoted to work as a Fashion PR Associate at The A List Company via The Honeyman Agency, a luxury PR showroom based in Beverly Hills. AnnBrendle sends a special thank you to Mrs. Crawford and Mr. Fair; their encouragement and belief in her during high school truly enriched her time at Charlotte Christian and gave her the confidence to pursue this path.
Jeb Blazevich and his wife Addy moved to Savannah, Georgia in the last year where he was fortunate enough to earn Partner at Sterling Seacrest Pritchard. In his role, Jeb helps businesses manage their employee benefits. Even more importantly, he was recently promoted to Father with the arrival of his daughter Blakely on Valentines Day. Life is great in the low country!
Keagan Piatek graduated from CCS in 2014 and went off to study biology at UNC Chapel Hill. After completing undergrad, she worked as a behavioral technician, implementing behavioral therapies to kids with autism. During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Keagan enrolled in an American medical school based in the Caribbean (on the beautiful island of Saint Maarten). In December of 2024, she officially received her Doctor of Medicine and successfully matched into a pediatric residency program at a university hospital in Camden, NJ.
Alex Payne married Emily Wigstrom on October 18, 2024, in Charlotte, North Carolina. Alex graduated from the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina in 2016 and earned his master’s degree in accounting from the University of South Carolina in 2017. Alex is a manager, CFO and business consultant with Forvis-Mazars. The newlyweds reside in Charlotte.
Blaydes Moore married Caroline Grasso on May 3, 2025, and moved to Waxhaw, North Carolina.
Kristi Rose recently became a real estate agent at the end of 2024 and joined Charlotte’s Finest Properties with RE/MAX Executive Southpark.
Chris Ferebee after eight fantastic years with Tesla, has made the exciting move into aerospace, joining the Dynamics Team at Relativity Space. He will be working to help them launch Terran R in late 2026. Chris and Jacque Von Gnechten Ferebee (‘07) reside in Round Rock, TX with their three children James, Eleanor and John.
Garrett Carter has started 7C’s Technologies. Focusing on nonprofits, 7C’s Technologies offers IT managed services solutions for a fraction of the cost to build, maintain and protect nonprofits and small business computers, networks and IT-related devices and products.
Ben Ector retired after 40 years in the classroom, 32 of those years at Charlotte Christian.
Legacy Breakfast
Charlotte Christian hosted the fourth annual legacy breakfast inviting alums with current CCS students to bring their family to campus for a special time to connect and fellowship. In the 2024-25 school year, there were 81 legacy students and 18 alumni on staff.
LUKE BOYTHE (‘98) Congratulations to
who in addition to his role as Assistant AD, is also the new director of basketball operations and head boys basketball coach.
Charlotte Christian will present the annual Distinguished Alumni Award and Alumni Service Award during the 2025-26 school year. Alumni will be recognized for their extraordinary achievements in their field of work; outstanding contributions to the welfare and advancement of Charlotte Christian; and exceptional acts of service.
Scan the QR code to nominate an outstanding alum. Nominations will run until Friday, Aug. 1.
