Engage - Spring 2015

{ SPRING 2015 }

I N S I D E feature >

LCS INSPIRES A LIFETIME OF SERVICE

Marris Smith, R.N., Serves on Board the Africa Mercy Hospital Ship

ON THE HORIZON “FOR THE SON OF MAN CAME NOT TO BE SERVED BUT TO SERVE, AND TO GIVE HIS LIFE AS A RANSOM FOR MANY.” (Matthew 28:20) Service should be normative for the follower of Jesus Christ. The Savior modeled this through various acts of service culminating with laying down His life on the cross to purchase redemption for His own. Our salvation is accomplished by His sacrifice. It is not earned by our service. However, a life of service does flow from the truly redeemed heart.

Servant leadership is a frequent theme today in both business leadership literature and in the church. Today’s schools are expected to instill a spirit of service in students. The notion of “community service hours” has been embraced throughout educational circles as an attempt to leverage extrinsic motivation via rewards and incentives in hopes of developing intrinsic motivation to serve others unselfishly. The formula itself appears to be somewhat of an oxymoron!

Preparation for service is one of the four-fold goals of the LCS mission statement. Since putting others first runs counter to our natural selfish tendencies, this trait is not easily cultivated. A life of service is more likely to be fostered via modeling by parents and teachers than by formalized reward-driven programs. The redemptive work of God’s Spirit at the heart level is an essential aspect of this process.

We are encouraged by the increasing involvement of our current students in serving others. It is our hope that their involvement will stir their hearts to pursue service for a lifetime. We are grateful for many graduates who have internalized this value and are living lives characterized by serving the Lord by serving others. We hope you enjoy reading accounts of some who have embraced the joy of service in this edition of Engage.

DR. MIKE SLIGH, Headmaster

COVER PHOTO: Mercy Ships volunteer nurse Marris Smith, R.N., (LCS Class of 2007) and patient Marinie walk the decks outside of the hospital wards onboard the Africa Mercy for exercise. Marinie received a free orthopedic surgery onboard the hospital ship. ©Mercy Ships / Ruben Plomp

MAGAZINE Editor Sandy Johnson, Communications Specialist

WHY Engage ?

Creative Design Clark/Nikdel/Powell

engage v. to commit; to involve intensely; to begin action

Cover Photography Ruben Plomp

The title for the LCS magazine describes – in one word – a

ADMINISTRATORS: Dr. Mike Sligh | Headmaster Steve Wilson | Director of Advancement Luci O’Byrne | Elementary Principal Nancy Bradley | Assistant Elementary Principal Wayne Shimko | Secondary Principal Darren Copeland | Assistant High School Principal Keith Overholt | Assistant Middle School Principal

great deal about our passion for Christian schooling and the effectual results. This active verb reflects our commitment to fostering lives of vibrant faith, active learning and intentional influence. Teachers engage students, students engage in their studies and co-curricular activities, and children and young people are prepared to engage their culture for the Kingdom. Engage will share encouraging stories of commitments to Christ, engagement in learning and active applications of faith for a lifetime.

Julie Rice | Director of Enrollment Matt Green | Chief Financial Officer

BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Kevin Knowlton – Chairman Jim Wilbanks – Vice-Chairman Beth Patteson – Secretary

IN THIS ISSUE:

Payton Albritton Kristen Bolter Dan DeLange

Feature: Marris Smith { 6 } Side Feature: Juda Norman Attkisson { 12 }

Dan Green David Miller

Campusclamor@LCS { 14 }

Bill Mutz Dean Nederveld Cory Petcoff Dr. Steve Sligh Dr. John Tucker

magazine is published quarterly by Lakeland Christian School and is distributed free of charge to parents, grandparents, alumni and friends of the school.

Send correspondence to: Lakeland Christian School Attn: Sandy Johnson 1111 Forest Park Street

Expressions@LCS { 16 } Fine Arts Feature: Tara Campbell { 18 } Faculty Feature: Discovery Program { 20 } Staff Scoop { 22 } Alumni@LCS { 23 } Sportszone@LCS { 24 } Fun Stuff { 26 } Cheerfulgivers@LCS { 27 }

Lakeland, FL 33803 You may send emails to sjohnson@lcsonline.org.

This magazine is printed by Area Litho, Lakeland, FL.

LAKELAND CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 1111 Forest Park Street, Lakeland, Florida 33803 | Phone 863-688-2771 Fax 863-682-5637 | lcsonline.org | facebook.com/LCSVikings | twitter.com/LkldChristian

AFTER 60 YE AR S, OUR MISSION REMAINS THE SAME

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THE MISSION OF L AKEL AND CHRISTIAN SCHOOL is to educate students in the light of God’s word to equip them for a lifetime of learning, leadership, service and worship.

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F E AT U R E

MARRIS SMITH:

Providing Healthcare and Sharing God’s Love in Africa { 6 }

“The Lord looks down from heaven; he sees all the children of man; from where he sits enthroned he looks out on all the inhabitants of the earth, he who fashions the hearts of them all and observes all their deeds …

Our soul waits for the Lord; he is our help and our shield. For our heart is glad in him, because we trust in his holy name. Let your steadfast love, O Lord, be upon us, even as we hope in you.” – PSALM 33:13-15, 20-22

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E N G A G E F E AT U R E continued

Marris Smith knew from an early age that she wanted

surgery, obstetric fistula repair and more. They have

a career in the medical field. She even remembers

treated 572,000 patients in village clinics and

having to explain to her fifth grade class what it meant

performed more than 305,000 dental procedures.

to be an OB-GYN. As a high school student, Marris

The organization also trains local teachers and

decided to pursue a career in nursing. So when

professionals in specific areas of expertise including

she graduated from LCS in 2007, she went to the

anesthesiology, midwifery, sterilization and more.

University of Tampa where she earned her BS in

In addition to medical procedures, Mercy Ships has

Nursing in 2011. She completed her final clinical

completed more than 1,100 community development

rotation at Moffitt Cancer Center and has been

projects focusing on water, sanitation, education,

employed with Moffitt ever since.

agriculture and infrastructure development.

But you won’t find Marris treating patients at Moffitt

The Africa Mercy ship, which Marris serves on, is the

Cancer Center right now; in fact, you won’t find Marris

world’s largest non-governmental hospital ship and

unless you visit her hospital ship – the Africa Mercy –

is dedicated to the continent of Africa. Launched in

docked in Madagascar off the coast of Mozambique

2007, this 16,500-ton ship features five operating

in east Africa.

rooms and 82 patient beds. It hosts an average crew

Marris first heard about Mercy Ships – a global charity that operates a fleet of hospital ships in some of the poorest parts of the world – during high school. She applied on the two-year anniversary of becoming a nurse and is now on her second trip with the organization.

ABOUT MERCY SHIPS AND THE AFRICA MERCY Mercy Ships is an international, faith-based organization that provides free healthcare throughout the world. It was founded in 1978 by Don Stephens, who dreamed of using ocean liners as hospital ships to care for the poor. The fleet of medical vessels has

of 450 at a time.

HER YEARS AT LAKELAND CHRISTIAN Marris was an active student during her time at LCS. She played in the band and performed in musicals and plays. She was a soccer player and served on the student council. She was also a member of several organizations including National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and more.

These activities and a close-knit group of friends have given Marris many fond memories, but it was also the influence of many teachers who were instrumental in preparing her for life after high school.

served 2.42 million direct medical beneficiaries since

“Mr. Joe DeRosa, Mrs. Kathy Johnson and Mr. Chuck

its founding, visiting ports in 56 of the poorest nations

Fulton all taught me to develop the gifts that God

including Benin, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Liberia, Senegal,

had given me. They also taught me to love music,

Sierra Leone, Togo and more.

the importance of dedication and how to strive for

Mercy Ships has performed more than 67,000

excellence,” Marris said.

operations such as cleft lip and palate repair,

“I first realized that Mr. Stabler would have a big

cataract removal, orthopedic procedures, plastic

impact in my life when he unintentionally ended up

“I ENDED UP FALLING IN LOVE WITH THE ONCOLOGY FIELD AND A FEW PATIENTS WITH CANCER WHO I MET THROUGHOUT MY CLINICAL ROTATIONS. ONE OF MY PROFESSORS SUGGESTED THAT I APPLY FOR MY FINAL CLINICAL ROTATION AT MOFFITT CANCER CENTER, AND I HAVE WORKED THERE FOR THE PAST THREE YEARS.” { 8 }

with a ninth grade Bible class made up entirely of girls!

He was very patient with us and utilized the situation well, engaging us in conversation about certain biblical application points in ways that probably wouldn’t have taken place had there been guys in the class. To date, it’s still one of my favorite classes!”

“Mr. Musick, Mrs. Oncu, the Livesays … can I keep going? I could list everyone! All of the teachers at LCS really did have a great impact on my life and my family as a whole – greater than I think they even realize.”

One specific area where Marris credits Lakeland Christian for preparing her for the future is in the emphasis on service.

HER COLLEGE YEARS AND THE START OF HER CAREER During her four years at the University of Tampa, Marris was involved with Campus Crusade for Christ and with a local church in downtown Tampa. She served on Student Government and in the Student Nursing Association. Early in her college career, Marris even rowed on the UT Crew team.

She planned to pursue pediatric nursing after graduation, but a nursing professor encouraged her in another direction.

“I ended up falling in love with the oncology field and a few patients with cancer who I met throughout my clinical rotations. One of my professors suggested that

“It started at a young age with tangible ways of

I apply for my final clinical rotation at Moffitt Cancer

serving such as singing at local nursing homes,

Center, and I have worked there for the past

then Work-A-Thon and eventually mission trips and

three years.”

community service requirements in high school. I also remember countless missionaries and local charities sharing in chapel. It seemed at every turn, we were being encouraged to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

Since her graduation, Marris has worked as a registered nurse on the Medical-Surgical, Hematology/Oncology and Chemotherapy units at Moffitt.

This is something I have carried on into college and beyond.”

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ENGAGE FEATURE continued

HER FIRST TRIP ON THE AFRICA MERCY While researching the organization, Marris learned that she needed two years of nursing experience

with alternating weekends off. The nurses rotated between day, evening and night shifts.

before being able to apply to serve with Mercy Ships.

“During the shift change, before we would give

After an extensive application process and many

‘report’ or hand-off, we would pray together as a

immunization requirements, her application was

group over our patients. All the nurses, translators

approved in 2013, and she received her first

and sometimes even the patients would join it. It

two-month assignment for service in early 2014.

was the sweetest part of my day.”

Marris’ first trip on the Africa Mercy was to the

HER SECOND TRIP ON THE AFRICA MERCY

Republic of Congo. She served as a ward nurse and performed typical duties of a floor nurse – prepping for surgery, monitoring patient recovery, addressing complications, checking vital signs, charting, changing dressings, managing drains, communicating with the surgical team, giving medications and teaching exercises.

After her first trip, Marris returned home and resumed her duties as a registered nurse at Moffitt.

Knowing that she was passionate about serving again but challenged by the unclear logistics of returning for a longer field service – and knowing how hard it would be to spend so much time away from her family – Marris spent much time in

“There was much that was different than typical

prayer before committing to another trip on

‘westernized nursing’ on the Africa Mercy,” Marris

the Africa Mercy.

said. “All of the patients are in one large room – 20 patients plus their caregivers who slept under the patients’ beds. Free time included playing games with the patients on the floor such as Jenga or Connect Four. Communication was through translators. There was a whole lot of laughter and much prayer.”

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Marris worked eight-hour shifts five days a week

“I came to the conclusion (with the help of Psalm 33:13-15, 20-22) that God himself has knit together my heart and prepared me for this role, and because of the freedom I have through Christ, I can bring this hope to others as well! He joins me in this excitement and has promised to be with me every step of the way.”

Currently, Marris is working on a 10-month field

were admitted with severe burn contractures,

service in Madagascar. The trip was originally

rendering a part of their body nonfunctional and

scheduled to leave for Benin in August of 2014, but

severely deformed. These patients would leave

the outbreak of Ebola in West Africa postponed her

smiling, happy and freely moving again. It seems

trip until mid-October and forced a location change.

so simple, but it was a joy to be a part of

The last-minute change of plans and waiting on word

their transformation!”

of her assignment was challenging for Marris, but also a teaching experience for her.

“Over the days and weeks of their recovery, patients came to realize that they were loved by us and, more

“It taught me to just live day by day, not knowing

importantly, they were treasured by God. It became

what tomorrow will bring. I am learning how to trust

so tangible to these men, women and children that

God in ways I have not yet learned – with finances,

God has loved them all along, in whatever state they

my health and even my future.”

were in. But he offered restoration to them – both

For this service, Marris is part of the Palliative Care Team and travels to homes of patients to provide care rather than on the ship’s inpatient unit.

physically and spiritually.”

THE INFLUENCE OF HER LCS EDUCATION The mission of Lakeland Christian School is to

“When Mercy Ships screens for potential

educate students in the light of God’s word to equip

patients, many come out of the screening site who

them for a lifetime of learning, leadership, service

cannot benefit from the surgeries offered. Either

and worship. For Marris, it is easy to see how this

it is an inoperable ailment or a chronic condition.

mission has played out in her life.

This is where the Palliative Care Team comes in,” Marris said. “This team is able to partner with local organizations to provide symptom management and sometimes end-of-life care, community resources and, most importantly, hope in Christ.”

“I remember in Dr. Sligh’s senior Bible class that we talked about our biblical worldview – how it was a framework rather than ‘rose-colored lenses’ through which to view the world. This means that we can learn as much as possible about the world

“The goal of our team is to show the love of Christ

and others, knowing how to interpret it all by what

to people who are isolated, hopeless and fearful

God says in His word. This prepared me for life after

because of a terminal illness and to extend support

high school, including college and the working/adult

to the family of the terminally ill person.”

world as well.”

THE GREATEST REWARDS

“I can look back on my time spent at LCS and see

Serving abroad, experiencing language barriers, witnessing loss and being away from home for months can all be difficult, but there are big rewards and joyful moments that make the challenges worth it for Marris.

how the community and curriculum have been hugely instrumental in shaping who I am today. The mission of LCS sums up how I view my life and the world around me. It has equipped me to know how to use God’s word to govern my decision-making in all areas of life, including the day-to-day. In light of what

“The biggest rewards I received while a part of

God says in His word and His great love for us, I am

Mercy Ships have been the small moments shared

motived and equipped to serve, love, grow and lead

with patients. Some of these special moments

in my workplace, family, church and community.”

include singing to God and dancing in the ward services, praying with them before surgery and after recovery, and sharing many laughs despite our language barrier.”

“When I was working on the ward, it was such a

You can keep up to date with Marris as she serves on the Africa Mercy by visiting her blog at http://medium.com/@marrissmith./ To learn more about the Mercy Ships organization, visit www.mercyships.org.

blessing to see the transformation of a patient. Some { 11 }

SI DE F EATU R E

A DREAM REALIZED:

Alum Juda Norman Attkisson Opens Home for Former Foster Boys As a ninth grade student at LCS in the early 1970s, Juda (Norman) Attkisson remembers that her last home economics project before Christmas break was to make stuffed animals for kids at the Florida Baptist Children’s Home. The class, taught by Miss Palmer, had the opportunity to visit the kids and distribute the stuffed bears. That was when Juda decided she wanted to work in a children’s home.

The statistics on kids who age out of the foster system are staggering. In central Florida alone, there are 750 children in foster care each day. Reports show that after they turn 18, 48 percent are homeless within the first year. Seventy percent of males are convicted of a crime within two years, and 60 percent of females have a child within two years. Many are immediately sent to ­homeless shelters on their 18th birthdays.

After graduating from Lakeland Christian in 1976, she began a degree in social work. But the child abuse overwhelmed her, and Juda changed her major to elementary education – a career choice that she knew would allow her to stay home with her future children as much as possible.

Juda began assembling a board of people from local churches who shared her passion, and Grace Landing was born. The ministry started six years ago with the purpose of caring for aged-out foster care and homeless boys. They opened their first home five years ago to young men between the ages of 18 and 23. It was an eye-opening experience.

She earned her education degree from Florida State University and a Master’s in Elementary Education from the University of Central Florida. She married Frank, whom she started dating her senior year of high school after they attended homecoming together. The couple started a family, and Juda used her teaching degree for a short time before deciding to stay home with her children.

Several years later as a stay-at-home mom with a daughter headed to college, a son in high school and another son in middle school, Juda realized that her own children no longer needed her to be as available as when they were young, and she began thinking about kids who did need help.

“My husband had spent eight years in the legislature, and I was hearing what was happening with our foster youth when they turned 18,” Attkisson said. “It broke my heart.” { 12 }

“I thought I knew everything kids would try after raising my own. No … I didn’t know much,” Attkisson said.

“I thought all they needed was some loving, and they would succeed. Some did, but some didn’t want that love. They were afraid of loving and trusting anyone.”

A few years after the first home opened, Grace Landing opened a second house. This coming May, they will open another small group home for boys and hope to begin partnering with another agency to do foster care for children from birth to 18 years old.

Juda serves as the executive director of Grace Landing and spends her days raising money, working on projects and staying connected with the boys in her care.

“I don’t mind getting called at 6 AM to go take a boy to school, meeting them at the bus stop and taking them to volunteer or work, taking them to march in the parade with ROTC, going to track meets, or picking someone up at 1 AM because they have made a poor choice. Some of them call me mom, but others don’t want to be reminded of their mom, but I do the ‘mother’ things … I love taking them to lunch, bringing them goodies from home and giving them all of the mother talks I did with my own boys, although some things seem outrageous to them like dating and no sex before marriage.”

There are many challenges that Juda and the staff of Grace Landing face as they work with these young men.

“I thought I knew everything kids would try after raising my own. No … I didn’t know much,” Attkisson said. “I thought all they needed was some loving, and they would succeed. Some did, but some didn’t want that love. They were afraid of loving and trusting anyone.”

“Foster youth are much more difficult. They are behind educationally, have a sense of entitlement, have been through a lot of trauma and don’t trust anyone,” Juda said. “It’s hard to go back and teach skills they should have learned long ago and undo things they have learned. It’s hard to teach them to trust you, and it only takes one thing you promise and don’t follow through with, and you have to start all over again.”

According to Juda, one of the biggest challenges is getting the boys to want to know Christ. They are required to attend a Monday night Bible study where they have the opportunity to talk to the group about God. “Many say, ‘I asked God for help and he never answered me.’ They feel like God deserted them at a time when they needed him most, so they want nothing to do with Christ.”

The ministry of Grace Landing relies on volunteers and financial support. If you are

But despite the challenges, the rewards are great.

The staff at Grace Landing gets to witness high school graduations, watch the boys get married and help them get into college or find a career.

interested in learning more or supporting

“God continues to teach me as I lead,” Juda said.

“I don’t think I realized as much as I do now about service. We think we serve to make others feel better but, in reality, the boys at Grace Landing bring a lot of joy to my heart and to Frank’s. The time we spend with them, even at our house—shooting guns, swimming, building bonfires, feeding them—brings us more joy than it does the boys.”

How can you help?

“As we developed Grace Landing, it was my training from LCS — going to the Baptist Children’s Home — that reminded me of God’s call for the Church to take care of the widows and orphans because ‘when it comes to ­c­aring for the people in God’s heart, indifference is a sin.’

In the story of Boaz and Ruth, Boaz welcomes, affirms and blesses Ruth. He provides for her and takes steps to protect her. He honors her by inviting her to his table and is sensitive to the position she is in and respects her. And then Boaz makes Ruth part of his family. Oh that we all should do these things for the fatherless!”

the ministry of Juda Attkisson, visit www.gracelanding.org.

• Consider fostering or adopting. “There is so much need for Christian families to step up,” Juda said.

• Put together a team and compete in the Paddle Challenge (canoe race) on May 30.

• Visit a Monday night Bible study.

• Be part of a mentoring group for the boys.

• Write a check. Mail to Grace Landing, PO Box 702543, St. Cloud, FL 34770.

Contact Juda for other opportunities.

You can reach her at 407-470-6041 or by email at judaa@gracelanding.com. { 13 }

{ campusclamor@lcs }

Congratulations to the LCS RISE Institute High School Mock Trial Team who defeated George Jenkins Law Academy on Saturday, February 7, during an all-day competition at the Polk County Courthouse. The team earned the honor of representing the 10th Judicial Circuit at the Florida Mock Trial State Finals at the Orange County Courthouse in Orlando in early March.

2014 – 2015 Lakeland Christian School Mock Trial Team: Coach Greg Cawood, Alex Holmes, Hayden Lee, Julia Canady, Reese Overholt, Megan Gordon, Lauren Latimer, Coach Jennifer Canady, Ashlynn Joyner, Amanda Fulton, Coach Chasity Branham, Nehemiah McIntosh

joined the young students as part of the cast. Other cast members included Sarah Remmer, Cale Strickland, Aidreana Thorpe, Lauren Dentmon, Easton Durden, Belle Medina, Elijah Beale, Peyton Brenneman and Gage Rhoden.

Grace Rodda (3rd grade, right) and her friend Audrey Link

In late January, the first and second grade students performed “Livin’ Inside Out In an Upside Down World!” for their annual musical. The play, written by Celeste Clydesdale and arranged by David Clydesdale, was directed by elementary music teacher Nancy Snyder.

Miss Snyder was assisted by Mrs. Lois DeRosa. All students in first and second grade performed as part of the chorus. Junior Kara Stacy and senior Amanda Fulton

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During enrollment season, elementary students in K4 through fifth grade have had the opportunity to invite their friends to school as part of the “Bring a Buddy” program. These potential students met the teachers and students, saw the campus, participated in class time and enjoyed playtime outside. Thanks to our families for inviting these friends to campus!

{ campusclamor@lcs } (1

This winter, 10 teams represented LCS at the regional Odyssey of the Mind (OM) tournament at Strawberry Crest High School. Four of these teams placed in the top five in their division, and the following two teams will advance to the state tournament later this spring.

The fourth grade team coached by Darise McLoughlin finished first place in Division 1 (Gr. 3-5) for the Runaway Train problem. They had to design, build and operate one or more vehicles that traveled on tracks and made stops at different stations without touching the floor. The team was made up of Connor McLoughlin, Carys Wiechmann, Wenjo Lai, Harrison Kinney, Neil Dave, Braden Tan and Jacob Day. The third grade team coached by Tracy Russell and Sherry Herman finished in second place for their problem solving of “Silent Movie.” The students created and presented a performance depicting a director character who produces and presents a silent movie featuring a humorous villain. The villain had to commit three silly acts of “villainy.” Characters were not allowed to speak, but could use music played on a team-created instrument. This team consisted of Faith Russell, Luke Ghaly, McKenna Gravitt, Avery Sandman, Emily Crawford, Caden Newberg and McKenzie Ash. For the primary division, our second grade team of Tyler Tan, Samuel Otero, Ethan Petcoff, C.J. Miller, Amil Taveres, Charlie Hill and Cale Strickland was chosen to present at the state OM tournament. This team was coached

by Brad Kane.

OM is an international educational program that provides creative problem-solving opportunities for students from kindergarten through college. For information about the program and more details on the LCS teams, visit www. lcsonline.org/news

In late January, Rebecca Saxton Larson, the curator at the Art and History Museum in Maitland, Florida, visited Mrs. Kari Clever’s secondary art classes to teach students about traditional photography. Mrs. Larson helped the students build a camera out of a dark, light-tight box.

Once the cameras were constructed, the students used them to take photographs around campus. The bathroom in Mrs. Emily Johnson’s elementary art classroom was transformed into a dark room to develop the images the students took.

Mrs. Larson is a professional alternative process photographer. The students were exposed to her work and the work done by her colleagues in the field.

Mrs. Clever’s goal is to show the many possibilities and approaches in the art world.

IN MEMORY OF HAYDEN HITCHCOCK February 24, 2010 – January 5, 2015 K4 student Hayden Hitchcock passed away in a tragic accident on January 5.

Thank you for your continued prayers for the Hitchcock family and for the students, faculty, staff and friends of Lakeland Christian School.

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{ expressions@lcs } Secondary band students performed at the annual

Clarinet Duet: Grace Mason & Trinity Delgado-Rodriguez

District Band Solo and Ensemble Festival in mid February.

Trumpet Duet: Hannah Miller & Sean Stoltz

Congratulations to the following band students on their

Clarinet Quartet: Elena Peek, Trinity Delgado-Rodriguez,

outstanding performances at the festival:

Katherine Grubb & Grace Mason

STATE QUALIFIERS Marybeth Boulerice, Flute Solo Craig Heacox, Trumpet Solo Ashley Middleton,Trombone Solo Flute Duet: Marybeth Boulerice & Kacee Strickland Brass Choir: Ashley Middleton, Stephen Mutz,

& Wesley Capron Xylophone Duet: Mattison Fusaro & Avery Bryant Trumpet Trio: Hunter Patteson, Hannah Miller & Sean Stoltz Woodwind Quartet: Annie Bolter, Amielle Ingalla, Katherine Grubb & Elena Peek

Josh Martinez, Amanda Fulton, Rachel Chapman,

EXCELLENT RATINGS – 7TH AND 8TH GRADES

Evan McLoughlin, Craig Heacox, Brandon Kaye,

Katherine Grubb, Clarinet Solo

Taylor Anderson and Hayden Lee

Clarinet Duet: Mary Fran Caswell & Rebecca Chapman

SUPERIOR RATINGS – 6TH GRADE

SUPERIOR RATINGS – HIGH SCHOOL

Sun Woo Lee, Alto Sax Solo

Alex Barrow, Flute Solo

Kacey Hutto, Snare Drum Solo

Bradley Evans, Alto Sax Solo

Presley Philpot, Snare Drum Solo

Amanda Folk, Bass Clarinet Solo

Ethan Caswell, Trumpet Solo

Rachel Chapman, Trombone Solo

Josh Plyler, Euphonium Solo

Craig Heacox, Trumpet Solo

J.T. Stacy, Trombone Solo

Ashley Middleton, Trombone Solo

Matthew Simpson, Trombone Solo

Marybeth Boulerice, Flute Solo

Clay Janota, Tuba Solo

Kacee Strickland, Flute Solo

Brooke Smith, Clarinet Solo

Laina Strickland, Clarinet Solo

Xylophone Duet: Presley Philpot & Kacey Hutto

Mollie Tew, Flute Solo

Trumpet Trio: Ethan Caswell, Brock Copeland & Clay Weeks

Flute Duet: Marybeth Boulerice & Kacee Strickland

Trumpet Trio: Matthew Simpson, J.T. Stacy & Josh Plyler

Flute Duet: Cheyenne Allison & Mollie Tew

Brass Quintet: Brock Copeland, Ethan Caswell, Kadin

Saxophone Quartet: Will Smaha, Skye Allen, Daniel Vila

Genevich, Matthew Simpson & Clay Janota

& Bradley Evans

SUPERIOR RATINGS – 7TH AND 8TH GRADES

Trombone Quartet: Ashley Middleton, Rachel Chapman,

Seth Martinez, Alto Sax Solo Amielle Ingalla, Flute Solo Rebecca Chapman, Clarinet Solo Hannah Miller, Trumpet Solo Jessica Hopper, Trombone Solo

Hayden Lee & Taylor Anderson Brass Choir: Ashley Middleton, Stephen Mutz, Josh Martinez, Amanda Fulton, Rachel Chapman, Evan McLoughlin, Craig Heacox, Brandon Kaye, Taylor Anderson, Hayden Lee

Tyler Maloy, Trumpet Solo

EXCELLENT RATINGS – HIGH SCHOOL

Tyler Brickhouse, Trumpet Solo

Cheyenne Allison, Flute Solo

Wesley Capron, Trumpet Solo

Trey Brickhouse, Trombone Solo

Hunter Patteson, Trumpet Solo

Noah Russ, Clarinet Solo

Annie Bolter, Bassoon Solo

Kaitlin Smith, Clarinet Solo

Elena Peek, Clarinet Solo

Clarinet Duet: Kaitlin Smith & Laina Strickland

Grace Mason, Clarinet Solo

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Brass Quartet: Rachel Plyler, Tyler Maloy, Jessica Hopper

{ expressions@lcs }

Duet: Kristen Davis, Abigail Garrard Solo: Christian Bedwell Solo: Kristen Davis

MIDDLE SCHOOL SUPERIOR RATING: Ensemble: Kelsey Beck, Kendall Brown, Carter Chaplin, Several Lakeland Christian School elementary artists had pieces on display at the Platform Kids Art Showcase on Saturday, February 7. Congratulations to the following artists: Sydney Jani (Grade 5) | Breanna Newberg (Grade 5) Gracie Hill (Grade 5) | Emma Galbraith (Grade 5) Cassidy Burke (Grade 4) | Gretchen Caswell (Grade 4) Kaleigh Salmon (Grade 3) | Amelia Boyce (Grade 3) Allison Sullivan (Grade 3) | Ava Wetherington (Grade 2) Halle Johnson (Grade 2) | Peyton Brenneman (Grade 2) Ethan Petcoff (Grade 2) | Gage Rhoden (Grade 2) Anna Kate Rogers (Grade 1) | Derek Ramirez (Grade 1) John Workman (Grade 1) | Jolie Holmes (K5)

Carter Ferguson, Michael Hickernell, Christopher Lamb, Britain Musick, Samantha Thompson Quartet: Amielle Ingalla, Joanne Jeyasingh, Aimee Reimer, Sophia Strazzulla Quartet: Carter Chaplin, Carter Ferguson, Michael Hickernell, Christopher Lamb Trio: Kelsey Beck, Kendall Brown, Carter Chaplin Duet: Amielle Ingalla & Sophia Strazzulla Duet: Kendall Brown & Miolie Rock Solo: Kendall Brown Solo: Carter Ferguson Solo: Amielle Ingalla Solo: Ethan Sale

Jackson Brickhouse (K5) | Owen Williams (K5)

MIDDLE SCHOOL EXCELLENT RATING:

Mikayla Hampton (K5) | Lily Wall (K5)

Solo: Kieran Walker

Congratulations to the following students for their

Congratulations to our secondary musicians who were

outstanding performances at District Solo & Ensemble

chosen to perform in the Florida All-State Band and Choir

held at Davenport School of the Arts on Saturday, January

Ensembles on January 17. The concerts took place during

31. These students put in many hours of extra rehearsal for

the Florida Music Educators’ Association Professional

this event and represented LCS very well as they learn to

Development Conference in Tampa.

use their God-given gifts and talents.

High School Concert Choir: Christian Bedwell,

All High School entries earned SUPERIOR

Amanda Fulton, Kara Stacy

RATINGS and have qualified for State in March: Chamber Ensemble: Christian Bedwell, Kristen Davis, Amanda Fulton, Abigail Garrard, Laurel Hesseltine, Caroline Kitchens, Nehemiah McIntosh, Taylor Mills, Nick Norman, Cole Singler, Kara Stacy, Vaviel Verner

High School Women’s Choir: Vaviel Verner High School Honor Band: Ashley Middleton Middle School Concert Choir: Carter Chaplin, Amielle Ingalla Middle School Honor Band: Rebecca Chapman

Women’s Ensemble: Kristen Davis, Amanda Fulton, Abigail Garrard, Laurel Hesseltine, Caroline Kitchens, Taylor Mills, Kara Stacy Trio: Amanda Fulton, Kara Stacy, Christian Bedwell

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FINE ARTS FEATURE

INSPIRING PEOPLE TO DO MORE:

Tara Campbell Uses the Arts as a Catalyst to Create and Serve

For Tara Campbell, a former “lifer” at Lakeland Christian, creativity and service are woven together as she spends her days working for Access Church, living and volunteering in the Parker Street neighborhood, and writing for the The Lakelander magazine. After graduating from LCS in 2002, Tara went on to Florida Southern College where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art. We asked Tara to talk about her experiences at LCS and how she is using her love for art to serve the Lakeland community.

Engage: What are some of the activities you were involved with during your time at LCS? Tara: I was involved in pretty much everything but sports. I enjoyed sports; I just didn’t play. But I did help with the play, lead the student ministries club, helped with the Christmas float and more. I was exactly how I am today, if there is something to get done and I can do it, I’m going to do it.

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Engage: Which teachers had the greatest impact on you and why?

TARA: That’s a tough question because I feel like most of my teachers taught me something valuable.

Mr. Bruce Edgar and Mrs. Connie Christensen taught me that you can be an adult but also be approachable.

They allowed me just to ask questions about life, and that was so valuable as a teenager. Mrs. Judy Oncu taught me that you can stand firm in your decisions and how good constructive criticism can be (something that served me very well in my Studio Art program in college). Mrs. Becky Klassen taught me that learning can be fun and engaging. Mr. Mike Musick believed in my intelligence. I feel really blessed to have had all of them as teachers.

Engage: Do you have any memories from your time at LCS that stand out?

Tara: It’s hard to pick! I was there for so long, and more than half of our graduating class had gone to school together since kindergarten. Everyone knew

everyone and what was going on there. I loved it. I do remember that Mr. Musick described the girls in our class as “something he had never seen before,” but in retrospect I don’t think that was a good thing. We just all got along and had a lot of fun.

Engage: How do you feel that LCS prepared you for college and beyond?

TARA: Academically I was better prepared for college than most of the people I went to college with. On my floor I became the person who read everyone’s papers my freshmen year. It was fun. The Bible education I learned at LCS was absolutely invaluable as well. I still remember verses and lessons I learned from my Bible teachers while I was there and put them into everyday practice.

Engage: What were your career aspirations when you were at LCS? TARA: I wanted to be an art teacher. I loved art and I loved people so it seemed like the best fit. Plus, Mrs. Christensen was one of the nicest people I knew and I wanted to be like her.

Engage: Besides teachers, who were some of your biggest influences growing up?

TARA: Probably my dad … he died when I was in fifth grade, but I have so many memories of him that he still influences me today at 30. He was a great man.

Engage: Tell us what you do now. What is your job, and how do you spend your days?

TARA: Every day at work is different for me, and I love it.

I’m the Team and Outreach Director at Access Church.

We have a huge serving culture, and I recruit, train and schedule all of our people who serve. I spend a lot of time connecting with people. I also do a lot of creative work for the church in our media and for our programs.

It seems like a lot of hats, but I’m just willing to help things get done so that people can learn about Jesus and together we glorify God. That’s the whole point.

Engage: How can you use the field of art to impact the community?

TARA: Art is wonderful because there are no limitations to it. Absolutely anyone can do it. The only thing that keeps people from making art is their own preconceived notion of their artistic ability. When I worked for the Polk Museum of Art as their Outreach Teacher, art allowed me to open so many doors to conversations with others. It’s an easy catalyst to inspire people to do more, and it just so happens to be my favorite thing in the world. It’s how I got connected to Parker Street Ministries.

Engage: Tell me about the work you’ve done with Parker Street Ministries.

TARA: I started at Parker Street through the Polk Museum of Art as the after-school art teacher, and when I decided to leave the museum, Christina offered me a job as a classroom leader. I adore Parker Street Ministries.

I worked there for three years with different age levels but spent the longest amount of time working with the middle school girls and the high school students. Last year I decided to move into the neighborhood as an intentional resident. I no longer work with Parker Street, but I’m here all the time. The goal isn’t just to drop in and expect change but to influence them with my life and my choices and understand their lives and their choices.

Engage: You’re the Philanthropy Editor for The Lakelander. Why do you think being involved in the community is so important?

TARA: I think that we do ourselves a great disservice when we only think about ourselves. There’s so much going on in the world around us, so much to be discovered, so many people to be helped and so much life. If we aren’t regularly acting outside of ourselves then we’re kind of missing the point. Everyone has something to offer others. I love writing for The Lakelander and sharing stories of people who are doing good for our community. I hope that I can encourage them in their good work and inspire the people who read my articles to get involved and help in some way.

Engage: What are your long-term career aspirations?

TARA: My only long-term aspiration is to make sure that I do a good job with what God has given me every single day. If I’m loving God, loving others and telling them about Him, then I am fulfilling the aspirations God has set before me. I never thought that I would be doing the things that I’m doing now, but I know that God has protected me every step of my journey. If I stay focused on Him, then my steps are already being guided.

Engage: The mission of Lakeland Christian School is to educate students in the light of God’s Word to equip them for a lifetime of learning, leadership, service and worship. The goal is to prepare students not only during the few years they’re at LCS, but for a lifetime. How has that mission played out – and continue to do so – in your life?

TARA: Lakeland Christian gave me such a solid foundation in my relationship with God. I will forever be grateful for the things I learned while I was there and the guidance I was shown. Through that foundation and the way my faith has grown while attending Access Church, my hope is that my life is a continuous example of God’s faithfulness and love. As I get older and God trusts me with more, I hope that my leadership, service and worship grow. A lot of those desires started at Lakeland Christian. { 19 }

FACULTY FEATURE

SERVING STUDENTS ON THE AUTISM SPECTRUM:

Meet the Discovery Program Staff

An anonymous author once wrote, “ A good teacher is like a candle. It consumes itself to light the way for others.” There is no doubt that teaching is a demanding career but also one of the most rewarding professions. This is especially true for teachers in the Lakeland Christian School Discovery Program.

Established in 2006, this program serves students ages 5-14 with a specific diagnosis of autism and/or related disabilities. There are two self-contained classrooms based on age and functional ability, and the teacher-to-student ratio is 1:4. The teachers emphasize academic skills and independent functioning.

One Discovery parent said, “Each child with autism is unique and requires different educational approaches … The staff in the Discovery Program works hard each day to help these children reach their individual goals and to help prepare them for their future.”

This team of five teachers serves together year-round.

They come from different backgrounds and have different skill sets, yet they make up a team committed to serving a very special group of students on the LCS campus.

Tricia Shaw has worked at Lakeland Christian School for 10 years, with the last two being in the Discovery Program.

She graduated from Kathleen High School in 1990 and went on to earn her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in special education.

Sherrie Adams is a 1991 graduate of Lakeland Christian School and has worked at LCS for the past 11 years.

She served as a kindergarten paraprofessional at the beginning, but has been with the Discovery Program for the past seven years. Sherrie serves in the classroom with Tricia Shaw.

Why did you choose to work with autistic students?

“I’ve always had a heart for people with special needs.

I feel like God has given me a gift in this area. I want to use that to honor Him.” What is your favorite and/or most rewarding part of working with the Discovery Program?

“I love to see the progress that they continue to make.

I’m so blessed by their innocence, pure hearts and determination to learn new things.”

What is the biggest challenge?

Why did you choose to work with autistic students?

“Meeting the individual needs of such a diverse population.”

“It is rewarding to see gains/progress when my students learn what is taught. The relationship with their families is such a blessing to me as well.”

What is one thing you wish you could tell everyone about the Discovery Program and/or students on the autism spectrum?

What is your favorite and/or most rewarding part of working with the Discovery Program?

“I wish everyone could realize what special children God has created them to be. They each have their own personalities, likes and dislikes – just like everyone else. I would love for people to get to know them like we do.”

“Challenging my students with high expectations and watching them go above and beyond the goals that they are given.”

What is the biggest challenge?

“Planning activities that will meet the needs of all ages and personalities involved.”

What is one thing you wish you could tell everyone about the Discovery Program and/or students on the autism spectrum?

“We are one big family that supports each other and prays for each other. People should never underestimate students

{ 20 }

with autism. They are such a blessing to our school and contribute to the school community in many ways.”

After graduating from LCS in 2005 and earning her BS in psychology from Southeastern University in 2009, Lori Karnes returned to Lakeland Christian three years ago to work with the Discovery Program. ➝

Why did you choose to work with autistic students?

“I did a field experience class in college and volunteered in a self-contained classroom. From that, I knew this was my calling.”

What is your favorite and/or most rewarding part of working with the Discovery Program?

“I so enjoy watching my students grow and learn how to function independently. I also love their (often very strong) personalities.”

What is the biggest challenge?

“The biggest challenge for me is learning to tune out all of the extra noise. Discovery I is an incredibly vocal class this year!”

What is one thing you wish you could tell everyone about the Discovery Program and/or students on the autism spectrum?

“I wish I could tell everyone, especially students the same age as my students, that even though we are loud and learn differently – there are so many similar interests between both groups. We are all fearfully and wonderfully made!”

Becky Aldridge has spent five years working at Lakeland Christian and the past three have been in the Discovery classroom. Becky serves alongside Lori in Discovery I. Why did you choose to work with autistic students?

“I was praying for a job, and during that time Pam (Szydlowski) called and asked me to come. I was honored to work in this program. I worked in Special Programs for two years prior and loved it. I have a burden for these children.”

structure; they are more loving when they have structure and proper discipline.”

Erica Allen is the most recent addition to the Discovery Program staff and floats between the two classrooms. A 1989 graduate of LCS, Erica has a Bachelor of Arts with an ESE (Exceptional Student Education) certification. She started working at Lakeland Christian this year.

Why did you choose to work with autistic students?

“I enjoy helping the students learn how to interact in a meaningful way with the world around them.”

What is your favorite and/or most rewarding part of working with the Discovery Program?

“The most rewarding part of working with the Discovery Program is watching students achieve milestones and witnessing how much everyone, including other students, love and accept these students.”

What is the biggest challenge?

“Understanding each child’s individual needs and creating ways to meet those needs.”

What is one thing you wish you could tell everyone about the Discovery Program and/or students on the autism spectrum?

“Discovery is awesome! From the students to the teaching team, this program is such a blessing.”

For more information on the LCS Discovery Program, visit http://www.lcsonline.org/academics/discovery-program/

What is your favorite and/or most rewarding part of working with the Discovery Program?

“My favorite part is when they look me in the eye, and I can feel that our hearts connect and they know I love them.

I love hearing the parents say that they love coming to school and how different they are since they’ve been in our program.”

What is the biggest challenge?

“I guess it would be trying to figure out what they’re trying to tell me. So many of our children don’t talk and there is a certain frustration level that comes with that. Watching them not know how to tell us something is hard.”

What is one thing you wish you could tell everyone about the Discovery Program and/or students on the autism spectrum?

“They understand and can learn to behave and have a fulfilling life by following rules. They actually like

{ 21 }

{ staffscoop@lcs } Mr. Geoff Stabler,

Congratulations to Mrs.

long-time teacher

Gaye Lene Hasha,

and head of the Bible

middle school English

department, was

teacher, on earning

recently published

her National Board

in the CSE, a profes-

Certification in Early

sional journal of the

Adolescent English

Association of Christian

Language Arts. She

Schools International. His article entitled “Today’s

completed a rigorous application process. You can

Students: Redeeming Earth Day” talks about

find out more at www.nbpts.org.

Creation and worship. Read his article here: http:// bit.ly/StablerArticle

Mr. Jim Boatwright, Secondary PE This fall, Mr. Eric Wells,

teacher, recently

secondary ­social

received his Master

­studies teacher and

of Arts in Coaching and

department chair,

Athletic Administration

­received his ­Master’s in

from Concordia

Educational Leadership (M.Ed.) from Clearwater Christian College. C ­ ongratulations, Mr. Wells!

Middle school science teacher Mrs. Beth Yeater was awarded a Delta Kappa Gamma Society International mini grant for $250 to use in her classroom.

She will be using the grant award to purchase a digital microscope that connects to a computer and can be projected onto her SMART Board.

{ 22 }

University (Irvine).

Congratulations Coach Boatwright!

{ alumni@lcs } 2000s Dustin Douglass (’01) and Rachel welcomed Samuel Luke to their family on December 22, 2014.

He was welcomed home by older siblings Miles, Lexi and Jude. Sam is grandchild number six for John and Kären Douglass.

Congratulations to Jarrod Cochran (’12) and Jake Molony (’14) on winning the NCCAA College Men’s

1990s

Soccer National Championship at Lee University. The

Matthew Croxton (’99) teaches AP biology,

team went 4-0 in the tournament to advance to the

chemistry and photography at Southwest Florida

championship game. The team won the final 2-1.

­Christian Academy in Fort Myers, Florida. Matthew serves on the board of directors for Core Academy

Stephanie Livesay Edwards (’08) is currently living in

of Science.

Columbia, South Carolina, with her husband, Wesley.

Stephanie recently graduated from the University of South Carolina with a Master’s of Arts in Teaching in

1980s

Special Education. She now works for a program called

Susan Robbins Williamson (’83) resides in Dover,

CarolinaLIFE at the University of South Carolina.

Florida, and is a reading coach at Tomlin Middle School in Plant City.

Chuck Anderson (’02) graduated from Southern Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, in 2011 with a Master of Divinity. Chuck was ordained to the ministry at First Baptist Church at the Mall on January 7, 2015 and is employed by the Florida Baptist Children’s Homes.

» We love to hear from you.

News about you is ­important to us and to your former classmates. Please email Claudia Powell at ­cpowell@lcsonline.org. Planning your class reunion? Claudia can also arrange for use of facilities and will offer other helpful tips.

To view even more alumni updates, please visit www.lcsonline.org/alumni/alum-notes/

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{ sportszone@lcs }

The Viking competitive cheerleading squad participated in the Florida High School Athletic Association Semi-­ finals on Friday, January 30. In just their second year of competition, the team placed second in their division (Class 1A Extra Large Varsity division), but only the top team in the division got to move on to the finals. The second-place division finish helped the Vikings end up fifth in the state.

The Florida Athletic Coaches Association recently named senior Chase Turbeville to the FACA 1A All-Academic Team for boys’ soccer. Girls’ varsity coach Jason Streets was named the 1A Soccer Coach of the Year. Senior Carly Knox and freshman Mary Peace were selected for the 1A All-State team for girls’ soccer.

Senior football players Eric Gallon II and T.J. Simmons signed letters of intent on National Signing Day (Wednesday, February 4) in Viking Stadium with their coaches, family and friends looking on. Eric signed his letter of intent to play for the University of Virginia.

The linebacker joined the Vikings for his senior season.

T.J., a running back who missed his senior season with an injury, has committed to Temple University (Philadelphia, PA).

{ 24 }

{ sportszone@lcs } Congratulations to the

Abby Riley, Caroline Kitchens, Victoria Kelley –

following LCS athletes

Honorable Mention

for being named to The Ledger’s fall All-County

Congratulations to senior quarterback Christian

teams:

Alexander and junior wide receiver R.B. Marlow on

FOOTBALL

being named to this year’s Class 3A All-State team.

Christian Alexander – Small School Offensive Player of the Year, First Team Offense

Sophomore Larenz Deshazor (wide receiver) and senior Eric Gallon (linebacker) received an honorable mention.

The Florida All-State Class 3A football team is selected by newspaper editors and reporters.

R.B. Marlow – First Team Offense Larenz Deshazor – Second Team Offense Nick Dusse, Reed McKown, Tucker Scruggs, Keland White and B.J. Sirmons – Offense Honorable Mention Kenny Storey, Eric Gallon, Josue Blanco – Second Team Defense Dominic McNish, Frank Burgess – Third Team Defense Will Smaha, Dalton Joiner – Defense Honorable Mention

GOLF

This winter, the girls’ varsity soccer team made their

Ashlynn Joyner – Second Team

fourth straight appearance in the State tournament and,

Will Richert – First Team

for the fourth straight year, their championship dreams

Jake Albritton – Second Team

were held off by St. John’s Country Day School (Orange Park, FL). St. John’s defeated LCS by a 4-0 margin. On

SWIM/DIVE

their road to the finals, the Lady Vikings took big District

Chloe Wineinger – First Team

wins over All Saints (8-0) and Fort Meade (6-1). In the

Suzanne Allen, Kayla Mudger – Honorable Mention

Regionals, LCS defeated St. Edward’s (6-0), Holy Trinity

Carson Knox – First Team

(1-0) and Lake Worth Christian (7-0). In the State Semi-

Stephen Mutz, Logan DiMotta, Hayden Patteson,

final match, the Vikings took a 2-1 victory over Miami

Brock Lindsey – Honorable Mention

Country Day School to put them in a rematch of last

VOLLEYBALL Holly Cameron – First Team Bria Aqui, Karlee Smith - Honorable Mention

year’s State Finals with St. John’s Country Day. In 2012 and 2013, St. John’s defeated LCS in the Semifinal Round. In 2014, the Lady Vikes fell 1-0 in the championship game.

CROSS COUNTRY Jerod Fuller – First Team Jacob Fuller – Honorable Mention Nathalie Saldana – First Team

{ 25 }

{ funstuff@lcs }

We asked members of the LCS family to tell us who they would trade places with for a day.

Here are some of the favorite responses: » “Travel channel host who gets to travel all over the world” – LYDIA KINNEY, School Nurse “A National Geographic photographer or Rick Steves, who hosts Rick Steves’ Europe on PBS” – CARRIE KIRK, Reading Enrichment Specialist “Taylor Swift” – ALEXA WATSON, 8th Grader “Kelly Ripa” – JENNIFER COPELAND, 5th Grade Teacher “Spider Man” – TAYLOR MORTON, Sophomore “Wonder Woman” – CASEY BILLMAN, Senior “Mr. Overholt” – HUNTER ELKINS, 9th Grader “Barbara Bush – she’s a rock star!”

– JENNIFER CANADY, RISE Institute Director “Kailyn Fusaro” – SCARLETT RALLS, 11th Grader “Ariana Grande” – CLARESSA PECK, 8th Grader “Carrie Underwood” – TESS HORNE, 12th Grader

{ 26 }

{ cheerfulgivers@lcs } Bus Campaign in High Gear, Needs Final Thrust The effort to replace one (or more!) of Lakeland Christian’s retiring buses continues to roll along but is in need of additional participation. The Mission in Motion campaign is the school-wide drive to fund the “Viking Voyager,” a new activity bus to take students to and from field trips, athletic events, special activities and a host of other school adventures.

To clarify a common myth – this bus is not a charter bus, motor coach or touring-style vehicle. The bus we hope to be able to purchase through the Mission in Motion is, essentially, a school bus – just not yellow. Depending on how much is raised, it could look like a traditional school bus, it could resemble a city bus or it could end up being a transporter type of bus. We would also like to wrap the bus with our logo, slogan and other identifiers of LCS. The effort to fund the bus is the focus of this year’s Annual Giving program. Each year, all within the greater LCS family will be asked to help fund a special project that is needed but not covered in the school budget.

Our desire is that all people connected to Lakeland Christian – parents, grandparents, alumni, alumni parents, etc. – will give each year to support the school’s special project.

So, where are we? As of press time, we have raised $75,000 toward this effort. Depending on the specific bus we’re able to obtain, the total cost willbe approximately $135,000.

Even though we will need a certain amount of money to buy a bus, the focus of our efforts has been to encourage participation – regardless of gift amount. In essence, we would like for all folks connected to LCS to give an amount each year that’s appropriate to your ability to give. Some have given $5 or less and we are grateful! Participation by all, at some level, is our goal.

Will you get on board and help us put the Mission in Motion? You may give online at lcsonline.org or contact Director of Advancement Steve Wilson (863/688-2771 or swilson@lcsonline.org) for more information.

WE ALL LEAVE A LEGACY. WHAT’S YOURS? “The Earth is the Lord’s, and all that is in it.”

This simple statement found in Psalm 24:1 is actually as profound as any verse in the Bible. It clearly identifies God as the owner of all, which makes us … well … clearly, not the owners of even those things we think are ours! And when we truly embrace this truth, it changes everything.

So if we’re not the owners, that would automatically make us the caretakers, the stewards of that portion which God has entrusted to us. And how’s that going for you? Are you found faithful or, like me, do you find yourself falling into an ownership mentality too often?

­determine who gets what. This is certainly not good s­ tewardship.

During 2015, LCS launches an initiative to begin having these stewardship conversations with people so they can – in turn – have conversations with family members and trusted advisors. The greatest benefit is to ensure a plan is crafted that accurately reflects your wishes and prepares and engages those you love.

Psalm 24 is just the beginning. The Scriptures are filled with references to God as owner and our calling to be faithful stewards. And our role as custodian of the Lord’s resources is not only for this life but also includes the legacy we plan to leave.

As part of the planning process, there is also the opportunity to plan a legacy stewardship investment to help secure the future of LCS so children and young people can continue to be blessed for years to come.

These opportunities for furthering the mission of the school have no financial impact on people during their lives, other than perhaps enhancing current income.

Or ... are you planning at all? It’s scary to realize that a whopping 70 percent of people die without even a ­simple will. That means that some other authority is left to

LCS Director of Advancement Steve Wilson would love to discuss a legacy stewardship investment with you. Feel free to contact him at 863/688-2771 or at swilson@lcsonline.org. { 27 }

LAKELAND CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 1111 Forest Park Street, Lakeland, Florida 33803

Sharpening Minds and Shepherding Hear ts.

Non-Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Lakeland, FL Permit No. 1