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Ascend Magazine Volume Four

Page 1


Ascend Fourth Edition , 2025

Board of Directors

ROBBIE

JANICE

As you turn the pages of this year’s magazine, you will see that 2025 was a historic year in the history of Foundation Christian Academy. From a new building, remodeled spaces, and new activities, you will be amazed at the wonderful events taking place on the campus. From the moment the sun peeks over the water tower, you’ll see middle schoolers racing to greet each other in the morning. In the cafeteria at lunchtime, the air is thick with the smell of Ms. Tina’s teriyaki chicken and the sound of laughter as students open their milk cartons while trading stories like at Thanksgiving. It’s a daily reminder that whether you’re three years old and still learning to tie your shoes or eighteen and receiving a college scholarship, you’re never just a student here—you’re family. At Foundation Christian Academy, “Together” isn’t a slogan; it’s the glue that turns good into unforgettable. From the first “Go Falcons!” hollered in the car line to the singing of “Every day is a beautiful day at FCA”, this school feels less like a campus and more like the warmest front porch gathering you’ve ever known— one where every hand is held, every story matters, and every heart beats to the same joyful rhythm. We’re better, stronger, and infinitely happier together.

David Pahman, Ed.D. President

Administration

Dr. David Pahman

President

Lorie Baker

Preschool Director

Melissa Young

Elementary Principal

Matt Bastin

Upper School Principal

Dr. Derrick Perdue

Athletic Director & Assistant Principal

Table of Contents

Natalie Scarboro

Financial Manager

Dr. Nick Secula

Guidance Counselor

Holly Wilson Director of Admissions & Marketing

prayTogether, we

“that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love, and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ.” colossians 2:2

Togetherness is no accident - it’s the very heartbeat of FCA. When faculty returned this summer to the beautifully spread out campus, they realized separate spaces were perfect for learning, but one school means one family. Teachers, staff, and administration prayed together and landed on a single word to carry them through the year: Together. Straight from Colossians 2:2, the verse now stretches across chapel screens and bulletin boards: “that their hearts may be encouraged, being knit together in love.” Walk by any homeroom during small group chapel and you’ll catch circles of students - cowboy boots to pastel sneakers - holding hands and praying over everything from upcoming ball games to healing for grandparents. But the moment that brings every visitor to happy tears is whole-school chapel: picture the tiniest Falcons curled up in the laps of seniors, all of them belting out “Goodness of God”, to everyone bowing their heads united in prayer, praising and thanking God for His blessings on all. 5

- Dr. David Pahman President

Together, we laugh Psalms 133:1

“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!”

Building a Biblical Foundation

Foundation Christian Academy builds a spiritual foundation for life for its students. Christianity has long been the stabilizing base of Western Civilization. It is sad to recognize that society’s base has in recent years begun to erode (Hosea 4:6). FCA is committed to preventing this erosion by establishing a knowledge and understanding of God’s word. This knowledge and understanding of the Truth is the foundation for which our school is named. It is the foundation that fosters our students in developing a genuine faith and a Biblical worldview. Having a Biblical worldview will help FCA students to have a conscientious approach to this life, and the genuine faith prepares them for eternal life.

The character traits like integrity, work ethic, and empathy that were common expectations in our culture’s past are so important for our culture’s future. If you speak to people who are trying to find good employees, they have a difficult time finding applicants with these traits. The foundation that students receive at FCA is definitely valuable for their livelihood, but it goes much deeper than that. The foundation they receive helps our students develop meaningful relationships, build strong families, be good stewards, and become productive citizens in this country and the Lord’s Kingdom. FCA is committed to working together with the home and encouraging the parental values and goals that are based on the Truth, so our children will be noticeably different for all the right reasons.

513 14.25

STUDENTS

81% average years of T eaching ex P erience

Thanks to the donors who purchased our flag pole. of students scored at or above grade level on the MAP Growth Reading Assessment. school quality as rated by all students - “At FCA, I am encouraged to follow Jesus’ example.”

Caring

students were exempt from final exams due to outstanding attendance. quality of teachers as rated by students & other teachers

uPPer school sTudenTs scored In The ToP 5% of The naTIon on TheIr Pre-acT.

ba PT

7 students received ACT scores over 30.

Together, we

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.”

romans 8:28

accomplish

A new era dawned for FCA on July 31st, as the grand opening of the Falcons Nest transformed the campus.

Garnet Baker (A), the longest-serving board member, was utterly surprised by the unveiling of the G.H. Baker building in his honor — a heartfelt tribute that left him speechless amid thunderous applause (A).

The Falcons Nest

Teachers (B), beaming with pride, stood in the newly-renovated hallway they had poured their sweat and creativity into, snipping the ribbon with infectuous excitement that echoed through the building, symbolizing their unwavering commitment to shaping young minds. This moment wasn’t just about bricks and mortar; it was a testament to the school’s vibrant future, where every child felt like a soaring falcon. Additionally, the children of Louise Goodman (C) stepped forward with profound pride to sever the ribbon in the sleek new board room named after their beloved mother, a touching homage that brought tears and smiles alike. As the ribbons fluttered to the ground (D), the Falcons Nest (E) stood as a testimony that with God’s help and blessings, together, we accomplish!

B.
C.
D.
E.
A.
A.

elemen T ary renova T ions

Picture this: outdated VCT tiles that demanded endless waxing, forcing exhausted teachers to haul furniture out of classrooms every single summer. Dull lighting, cramped spaces, and a cramped kitchen that preps meals for over 500. That was the reality ...until now.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of the Falcon Parent Organization — who stepped up with the lion’s share of funding — the elementary building has undergone a stunning renovation that’s turning heads and sparking excitement!

Step inside and you’re greeted by a dazzling rotating Falcons logo that sets the tone for what’s next: bright lights illuminating vibrant new walls, sleek modern flooring that says goodbye to waxing forever, an expanded kitchen, and a spacious cafeteria perfect for buzzing lunchtimes. This isn’t just a facelift — it’s a game-changer that’s making learning brighter, easier, and way more fun for students and staff alike.

maTTheW 18:20 Together,

“For

where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.”

The Falcons Nest Welcome to preschool at

Imagine a sunny day on the playground, where giggles float through the air and the pounding of little feet on the slide stairs pulses in joyful rhythm. Children cover every surface - laughing, playing tag, using their imaginations to save the world, spinning in circles — together!

It only takes a few hours for a group of children to form a tight-knit unit and become best friends, especially with the loving guidance of teachers who remind them to be kind and model what it truly means to be a good friend.

That’s exactly what your children receive at the Falcons Nest: administrators, teachers, aides, and office staff all committed to helping the little ones in our care grow closer to God and closer together. We firmly believe this strong foundation of faith, friendship, and community will help them thrive — not just in preschool, but for years to come.

Elementary

Life in elementary school at FCA is full of joy, growth, and meaningful moments that shape both hearts and minds. Each day, our classrooms are places where faith and learning walk hand-in-hand. We celebrate one another, not only for accomplishments and talents, but also for the strengths we are developing and the weaknesses that remind us we all need grace. Our students learn early that success looks different for everyone. Whether it’s cheering for a classmate who mastered a difficult math concept, applauding a bold performance at the talent show or supporting a friend who is learning perseverance, we believe every child has value and purpose. These moments teach our students how to encourage one another and rejoice together, just as scripture calls us to do. Learning here is hands-on, joyful, and often filled with laughter. Science experiments spark curiosity and wonder as students explore God’s creation. Hallways echo with excitement during special days like the 50th day of school, when students step back in time for a lively 50’s bop, complete with music, smiles, and plenty of fun. Teachers and students build relationships rooted in kindness, patience, and faith, creating a safe environment where children feel known and loved.

With much love, Melissa Young (and Gilbert)

“Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you.”

luke 6:38

Middle School at Welcome

The 2025 school year has been an exciting season of growth for Foundation Christian Academy’s middle school students. Our students have learned, explored, and stepped into new opportunities that highlight the strength of our program. Each grade has enjoyed a memorable experience beyond the classroom. The 6th grade visited the Louisville Zoo, the 7th grade traveled to the Space Center in Huntsville, Alabama, and the 8th grade explored our nation’s capital in Washington, D.C. These trips brought lessons to life and helped students see God’s world in new ways. This year, we also launched our first-ever middle school drama program, which proudly produced its debut show, “12 Angry Villains”. Our students shined on stage, showing creativity, dedication, and teamwork Additionally, our Junior Beta Club continued to grow and excel, with students demonstrating strong leadership, service, and academic achievement. From field trips to fine arts to academic success, our FCA middle school students are thriving — and we’re excited for what’s ahead!

learnTogether, we

“For if we have been united together in the likeness of His death, certainly we also shall be in the likeness of His resurrection.”

romans 6:5

succeedTogether, we

“Now I plead with you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgement.”

1 corinThians 1:10

HighSchool

Upper school 2025 was a year of change and continued growth, yet students continued to excel. The new high school House System, set into motion by our Student Council (A), fostered leadership and camaraderie, while learning Chinese calligraphy (B) celebrated culture. Student creativity was showcased with the Living Literature display (C) of “Where the Wild Things Are” at Sr. Beta Nationals, relationships developed with Spring Banquet (D) and the Homecoming parade (E). Hands-on learning occured with shark dissection (F) and a yearbook workshop (G). We are committed to making sure our Falcons graduate (H) prepared for the path of life they choose.

- Matt Bastin Upper School Principal

Didknow?you

We now offer two diploma paths at FCA: our College Prep Diploma and our Honors Diploma. The Honors programs build on our College Prep program by adding some additional class requirements and honors credit requirements. All students are eligible to take any class they desire as long as they meet the pre-requisites for the course.

A closer look at our advanced course offerings

honors

Advanced high school classes that require more rigor. These classes do not provide college credit.

advanced PlacemenT

Classes that follow a national college-level curriculum where college credit is earned by passing a year-end exam.

dual crediT

Classes that earn guaranteed college credit through a partner university based on your final course grade. 19

Together, we

conquer

“Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us. For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.” romans 8:37-39

Athletics

The year 2025 has been one of tremendous growth for Foundation Christian Academy athletics. We expanded our program by adding bass fishing, tennis, track, high school girls basketball, and high school baseball — the largest increase in varsity sports in school history. We now offer 11 sports with more coming soon.

encourageTogether, we

“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.”

Communication of athletics improved with the launch of the FCA Athletics App (A), offering real-time updates for parents, staff, and supporters and helping us share the story of FCA athletics. Scan the QR code above to download the new app!

Our athletes achieved several memorable milestones in 2025. Varsity Soccer (B) advanced to the KCAC State Championship game, finishing as a runner up — a banner-worthy accomplishment now displayed in our gym. Our high school girls basketball team (C) captured its first-ever varsity win, and senior Kingston Utley (D) signed to play archery with Campbellsville University. In addition, basketball standout Logan Nix (E) was selected as a member of the KHSAA Student Advisory Group for 2025/2026. He also reached the 1,000-point career milestone (F).

FCA is continuing to raise money to provide lights for the soccer field and build a baseball field. A total of $550,000 is needed for both, and about $240,000 has been raised. Will you join in and help? Scan the QR code below or contact Dr. David Pahman at FCA. (G)

FCA officially petitioned to move from District 14 to District 13, and the request was approved. Beginning next season, we will compete against Franklin-Simpson, Logan County, Russellville, and Todd County. This move provides our student-athletes with a stronger path to compete and grow.

We are excited about the future!

a T hle T ics conT.

Drama

The great director Frank Hauser said “The audience has come to the theater to believe...”. The art of theater and performing on stage has great value in the lives of our students at FCA. Through participating in our programs, they are given the opportunity to engage in events that change the lives of those who are in the audience, as well as change the lives of the students themselves. Our students exhibit great courage and fortitude when they step onto the stage, and we are thrilled to offer them more opportunities than ever this year! We have been blessed to divide our drama program into middle school and high school groups — each with an opportunity for a class during school hours. The middle school program produced and performed their first-ever play this past fall, and the high school program presented the first-ever Drama Showcase in November. We have also added an after-school Drama Club that meets one day a month. The biggest blessing of all is that we can enjoy this experience in a safe, Christ-centered environment. We hope that our audiences will come to the theater to believe in dreams, kindness, love, and beauty, but most of all that it points them to the love and beauty of our Creator.

“And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.”

10:24-25

Together, weconnect

“This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends.”

john 15:12-13

FineArts

The year 2025 was one of many accomplishments for the FCA Fine Arts department. Our choral students were busy auditioning for the KyACDA Honor Choir. Eleven students, grades 5-9, were selected to participate in this state-wide honor’s performance. Our high school choral members were busy too. Two of our seniors were selected to the KMEA All State Choir. This is the top honor for Kentucky high school music choral students. In the meantime, our middle school and high school bands and choruses prepared and performed in two separate performances. One in October and another in December. In addition, one of our junior band members was selected to participate in the KMEA All District Orchestra. Our Junior Beta team performed a medley from the musical Annie, placing third at Nationals in a small group performing arts category. This past spring, the middle and high school choral groups competed in the 3rd District KMEA Festival. Both groups received a Distinguished rating. We look forward to attending Festival again this spring.

Together, the Falcon Family has made a difference in supporting the things that tuition does not cover. In 2025, the Falcons had three very successful fundraisers. This year, due to weather, our Golf Classic had to be moved to Friday, June 6th. While the change in date affected some teams, the Golf Classic held at Crosswinds Golf Course raised a new record of $55,413! We want to thank Hill Motley for being our Title Sponsor again as well as all of our other sponsors and players!

The Harvest Run is always the favorite fundraiser for the students. The students get sponsors to be able to participate in a fun day right before Fall Break in October. This year’s Harvest Run met our school goal again and raised a new record of $70,825!

The 28th Annual Chili Supper, held in November, did not disappoint! Because of your kindness, your generosity, and your heart for the Kingdom work happening here, together, we raised over $302,000 for FCA! We are overwhelmed with gratitude. Out of that total, more than $71,000 will flow directly into our classrooms and school departments through the wonderful baskets and items so many of you created and sponsored. And, an astonishing $230,290 was given during the special appeal for our new soccer field lights and baseball field construction.

Fundraising

supportTogether, we

“Let nothing be done through selfish ambition or conceit, but in lowliness of mind let each esteem others better than himself. Let each of you look out not only for his own interests, but also for the interests of others.” PhiliPPians 2:3-4

Yearin Review

Financial Numbers

2024-2025 acTual exPenses

$3,463,467

Wages, Taxes & benefiTs

$2,770,690 mainTenance & uTiliTy exPenses

$303,000 educaTional & oPeraTional exPenses

In Honor Of

Deloris Seaton’s 90th Birthday

Delores Proffitt

Garnet Baker

Jack Ray

Justin and Amanda Lohden

2024-2025 acTual revenue

$3,463,467

$389,777 TuiTion

$2,752,132

$484,335

$227,000

David and Sarah Pahman

Jack Ray

Justin and Amanda Lohden

Lee Duff

Marie Phelps

David and Sarah Pahman

J.R. and Judy Ray Pugh

Jack Ray

Latasha Tobin

Larry Phelps

Shirley Solzman

Doug and Linda Frasier

Justin and Amanda Lohden

Jack Ray

David and Sarah Pahman

Warren and Jo Nell

Vaughan’s 70th Wedding

Anniversary

Jack Ray

Audrey Lakoduk

Jack Ray

Ben and Martha Needham

Jack JustinRay & Amanda Lohden

David & Sarah Pahman

Betty Sue Boyles

Justin & Amanda Lohden

David & Sarah Pahman

Beulah Pharris

Bethel Church of Christ

Brenda Fay Gilbert

Sunshine Memorial Scholarship

Roger & Ellen Watt

Brian Smith - Larry & Marilyn Smith

Memorial Scholarship

Jerry & Glenda Vincent

Nancy RhondaWofford Jane Garland

Joan Busby

Gracie Norton

Barry Brown

Perry & Robin Lawrence

Torrie Taylor

Grant & Ann King

Dennis George

Carolyn Bandy

Cherry Grove Church of Christ

Cassie Lathan Ray

Jack Ray

Charles Williams

Judy Perry-Allen

Stephen & Lindsey Burton

David and Sarah Pahman

Craig Waddell

Justin & Amanda Lohden

David & Sarah Pahman

Danny Lee Windsor

Justin & Amanda Lohden

Jack Ray

James & Judith Pugh

Robin Windsor

David & Sarah Pahman

Darrel Mason

Jack Ray

Levi & Brenda Word

David & Sarah Pahman

Justin & Amanda Lohden

Del Hood

Darrell & Sondra Stinson

Dorothy Escue

David & Sarah Pahman

In Memory Of

Dot Mann

Jim & Alice Humphrey

Justin & Amanda Lohden

David & Sarah Pahman

DuWayne Northey

Memorial Scholarship

Jack Ray

Elsie Gardner Barbee

Cherry Grove Church of Christ

Emerson Dickerson

Glaydelle Rice

Dan Branham

Angie Cornwell

Mae Nell Dickerson

Charles & Brenda Creek

Southern States

Bowling Green CoOp

Roger & Joyce Johnson

Dennis & Angela Vaughn

Bonita Creek

Richard & Bonnie Huffman

Jim & Alice Humphrey

Margot Jones

Justin & Amanda Lohden

Janice Lawson

John & Wanda Dodson

John & Donna Matthews

David & Sarah Pahman

Jack BobbieRayJean Dickerson

Wallace & Patsy Proffitt

Fred Wolfe

David & Sarah Pahman

Garnet and Rheba Baker

Honorary Scholarship

Norma Porter

Dennis Goss

Gary and Betty Baker

Scholarship

Norma Porter

Susan Heideger

Dennis Goss

Dr. David & Sharon Kirby

Dan & Anne Bateman

Betty CherylBakerWolfe

Glenn-Payne

Memorial Scholarship

Barkley Payne

Hugh Runner

Darrell & Sondra Stinson

J.A. Floyd Jr.

Jessie Wilson

James Guill

Mary Frances Guill

Kyle, Holly, &

Forrest Wilson

Roger & Ellen Watt

Jean Kelley

David & Sarah Pahman

Jerry Duff

Jack Ray

Justin &

Amanda Lohden

Lee Duff

David & Sarah Pahman

JoAnn Lee Ray

Memorial Scholarship

Jack Ray

Marie Phelps

Justin &

Amanda Lohden

Robin Windsor

James & Judith Pugh

John Forsee

South Warren

Church of Christ

Kay Dillard

Jack Ray

LaThell Dymacek

Marie Phelps

Justin &

Amanda Lohden

Jack Ray

David & Sarah Pahman

Laverne Pinckley

Memorial Scholarship

Teena Steen

Dr. Pippa

Pinckley-Stewart

Lee Moore

Charles Dukes

Justin &

Amanda Lohden

Wanda Anderson

Daniel Reasons

Ray & Martha Smith

Freddie &

Nancy Moore

Robert &

Judy

RobertaHarrisonCoffman

Cary & Kathy Whitney

Allen & Linda Shocklee

Michael & Regina Kovach

Greenville High

School Class of 1968

Michael & Phyllis Jones

Jerry & Cindy McIntosh

David & Sarah Pahman

Clark’s Appliance & Tire Center

Bobby Pearson

Cherry Grove

Church of Christ

Bobby & Shirley Gardner

Louise Goodman

Randy & GoodmanJennifer

Mark Isenberg

James & Judith Pugh

Jack Ray

Mary Pahman

David & Sarah Pahman

Pat Lee

Jack Ray

Paul Hodges Harmony Fund

Gary & Ricki Keckley

Pat Hodges

Jack Ray

Robert B. and Linda H. Baker Scholarship

Norma Porter

Robert W. Allen

David & Sarah Pahman

Roy L. Ray

Jack Ray

Ruth Gunn Lee

Jack Ray

Sherry Grise

David & Sarah Pahman

Tom Hagan

David & Sarah Pahman

W.B. Adams Jr.

Ray & Linda Mann

William Alton Brumit

Memorial Scholarship

Levi & Brenda Word

Jack Ray: Teaching us to Love,

Live, & Give

Scan the QR code to donate to FCA.

Jack Ray’s

board member 2001-2005, 2014-PresenT

adminisTraTor 2002-2008

direcTor of develoPmenT 2008-2025

enduring legacy at FCA will always teach us to love, live, and give. His example and encouragement to give has helped shape FCA. At the heart of Ray’s impact is his profound belief in FCA’s mission to develop Christian character. While watching children play on the playground, he would reflect, “This is why I am doing this, because these children are developing their character, just like Jesus.” Under his guidance, FCA became more than a school; it is a place that gives students a foundation for life in this world and in eternity. Throughout his tenure, Ray encouraged others to support FCA’s vital work through generous giving, including designating FCA as a beneficiary in their wills. He viewed such gifts as investments in future generations, ensuring FCA’s sustainability long after his direct involvement. By advocating for legacy gifts, Ray helped secure resources to fund financial aid allowing needy students to attend. Ray retired at the end of 2024, but still continues to serve as a board member. Jack Ray’s story is a testament to how one individual’s faith and vision can have an incredible impact.

“So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.”

2 corinThians 9:7

Together, wegive

Upcoming Events

charlIe and The chocolaTe facTory musIcal March 27th - 29th

3rd annual

sPrIng flIng April 17th

esTaTe PlannIng semInar April 19th

golf classIc May 2nd

sPrIng band concerT May 5th

sPrIng chorus concerT May 7th

class of 2026 graduaTIon May 16th

sojourners on camPus May 25th - June 4th

fIrsT day of school

August 13th

chIlI suPPer & aucTIon November

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