The Warrior Newsletter Winter 2015

WINTER 2015

THE WARRIOR L I T T L E

R O C K

C H R I S T I A N

A C A D E M Y

TABLE of CONTENTS 4-5

J-TERM TRIPS

10-11

10 YEAR CHAMPS

6-7

J-TERM CLASSES

12-13

STUDENT LIFE

8-9

ATHLETICS

14-15

ARTS

16-17 18-19

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS PARENTING SEMINARS

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HOMECOMING

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ADVANCEMENT

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ALUMNI ANNA LI

DR. ARNOLD

RECAPS WINTER 2015

IT’S ANOTHER GREAT DAY TO BE A WARRIOR. Seniors are receiving their college admission and scholarship letters. Our artists are showcasing their God-given talents to acclaim. Our athletes prepare for a fresh season of competition.

Prayers are offered all through the day for the hand of the Lord to be upon our children.

“All your children shall be taught of the Lord and great shall be the peace of your children.” (Isaiah) Another Warrior gains admission to Duke University. Our band and orchestra both received straight superior ratings in both ASBOA Region I Concert Assessment and Sight Reading Competitions. LRCA is the only private school to ever receive 3 consecutive years of ASBOA Orchestra Sweepstakes Awards.

Two Warriors earn state championships in wrestling. A high school student discovers the joy of salvation in Jesus Christ through the ministry of our Biblical Worldview program. Boxes of food and supplies bless the needy of Central Arkansas through the generosity of elementary children.

“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew) Stable enrollment allows broad program participation. 100+ churches add to the diversity of our school.

The House of Love, the House of Joy, the House of Enthusiasm and the House of Warriors are blessed with teachers who love your children. Moms and Dads gather in Warrior Hall to learn more about Biblical parenting from Tim Kimmel.* Our Economics team is honored by ATT and local business groups for “best in state” competition in personal finance. Energy mounts for our Spring production of The Wizard of Oz. Scores of volunteers prepare for our gala auction, Wild About Warriors.

Warrior Club continues to polish our athletic facilities as they prepare for our annual golf tournament. “… shine like stars, holding fast to the Word of Life …” (Paul) Yes, it’s another great day to be a Warrior.

Gary B Arnold President / Head of School * “The biggest determining factor as to whether a child’s Christian education will be stuck in the head or hidden in his heart has to do with the home he comes from and how passionate his parents are about Jesus Christ.”

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“TRAVEL IS THE KEY TO RICH EDUCATION AND GROWS A PERSON, MENTALLY, EMOTIONALLY, AND MOST IMPORTANT SPIRITUALLY. TRAVEL OPENS UP GOD’S WORLD TO US.” TERRI SWEDENBURG, J-TERM TRIP COORDINATOR

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STUDENTS LEARN, SERVE AND TRAVEL OVER J-TERM Modeled after the college January term idea, “J-term” is designed to increase learning opportunities for students. We offer classes and experiences not normally available, giving students an opportunity to learn in areas of passion, discover and develop their gifts, explore new ideas and skills, and consider where God may be leading them in their lives. The “block” nature of the two weeks allows for focused, in-depth study and deeper relationships with teachers and a small group of students.

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hree mission trips were offered this year along with two educational trips. Students choose to serve in the Bahamas, Jamaica or Africa or take educational tours of Italy and Costa Rica.

The trip to Africa was sponsored by Go Near Ministry. The team of students shared the gospel in prisons, in the poverty stricken slums of Nairobi and in the rural bush villages of Nairobi where around 100 men and women gave their lives to Christ.

During the mission trip to the Bahamas the students lead presentations at various elementary and high schools, worked with youth at a local church and hosted cookouts for local youth. They also served at the Jordan Stone House completing various jobs.

The mission trip to Jamaica consisted of construction projects at the Jamaica Christian School for the Deaf, conducting Bible School for children at the Eden Pre-School and caring for babies and children at the Blossom Garden Children’s Home.

On the nine day trip to Costa Rica students explored Costa Rica’s diverse ecology and experienced the inviting culture.

The students visited the beach of Tortuguero – nesting ground for giant sea turtles, the tree tops of Sarapiqui – location of Costa Rica’s longest zip line, Lake Arenal, Arenal Volcano, Rinconde la Vieja National Park – home to volcanoes and tropical rain forests and the white sand beaches of Guanacaste. The students reveled in the myriad of Costa Rica’s unparalleled natural and cultural beauty.

The eight day educational trip to Italy offered a chance to touch history and experience Italian culture enhanced by guided tours in some of the world’s most famous cities.

The students visited Doge’s Palace, St. Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, The Roman Forums, the Coliseum, St. Francis of Assisi, the Academia of Florence, and Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral. In addition to examining these historical sites, students soaked in contemporary Italian culture as they enjoyed Italian cuisine, shopping and impromptu explorations of Venice, Florence, Assisi and Rome.

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J-Term CLASSES Over forty classes in twelve different categories were offered over J-term. Students were able to choose classes from the following categories: Community service, bible and discipleship, science, life and career preparation, literature and film, outdoor skills and fitness, media and journalism, drama, social sciences, visual arts, academic prep and language and culture.

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J-TERM INTERNSHIP PROGRAM

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ver two hundred students participated in internships over J- term. The internship program provides a unique opportunity to observe and experience a working professional’s life. This experience in the world of adult realities allows students to see the not so obvious parts of what goes into a particular career choice. The experience can aid in career decisions that students will be making in the near future and more importantly provides a great venue for discovering how God has uniquely gifted, equipped, or prepared them. Two of our students, Hannah Kelly and Summer Meadors shared their internships with us.

“During J-term I interned Dr. Marsha Salman at the All for Kids Pediatric Clinic in Little Rock. I participated in many different activities while I was there. I researched illnesses and disease, attended appointments with patients and observed lab work. Dr. Salman taught me that communication and responsibility are a huge part of being a successful physician. I was fascinated by what I was able to observe and learn. Not only did I learn about medicine during the internship, I learned about life. I hope to one day be in the medical field.”

- Hannah Kelly, junior at LRCA

“I interned the youth ministry at my church, Fellowship Bible, during J-term. One of my responsibilities was to assist the pastors with preparation for our annual youth retreat Winterchill at New Life Ranch in Oklahoma. There is a lot of work involved both physically, mentally and spiritually to prepare to take several hundred teenagers on a weekend retreat! I was able to attend the retreat as a small group leader for eighth grade girls. I spent quality time with my girls and encouraged them in their walk with Christ as I led them that weekend. As I lead my girls, God revealed to me how much I want to be involved in ministry when I’m older – a possible job opportunity.”

- Summer Meadors, sophomore at LRCA THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2015

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ATHLETICS Basketball

Senior: Paul Deer

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Seniors: Brooklyn Burks (left) and Annalee Rhodes (right)

Boys Basketball

Girls Basketball

7th grade, 7-8 8th grade, 11-5 Junior High, 17-5, Conference Tournament Champions Varsity, 7-19 5A All State – Isaiah Harper 5A West All Conference – Isaiah Harper, Alex North, Drew Smith Warrior Award – Paul Deer

7th grade, 9-5 8th grade, 7-6 Junior High, 16-8 Varsity, 13-14 5A All State- Annalee Rhodes 5A West All Conference – Brooklyn Burks, Grayce Spangler, Annalee Rhodes Warrior Award – Brooklyn Burks

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Archery High School team placed first in LRCA Tournament and first in Arkansas Regional Tournament High School Individual Awards from Arkansas Regional Tournament: First Place Boys –Nathan McFarland First Place Girls –Adeline Geoghagan Top LRCA Shooters: Nathan McFarland, Chris LoRusso, Nathan Cheatam; Adeline Geoghagan, Olivia Goodrich, Emily Vanderford Middle School placed fourth in the Arkansas Regional Tournament

Top Middle School LRCA Shooters: Nate Geoghagan, Nathan Dodson, Jordon Jones, Emma Otwell, Ally Warren, Hadly Ezell

Wrestling Arkansas State Championship: Hunter Jones – 113 lb State Champion Kevin Knox – 142 lb State Champion Aaron Hurlbut –120 lb 3rd place finisher State Champions, Hunter Jones and Kevin Knox were invited to attend the Tournament of Champions. The Tournament of Champions consisted of two teams: the 14 state champions from the 1-5A schools opposing the 14 State champions from the 6-7A schools. The 1-5A team fell short of winning the team dual by a total of 3236. Both Warriors won their matches and represented their school and the 5A classification well.

Warrior Award – Aaron Hurlbut

Golf Boys – 3rd in 5A West Conference, 6th in 5A State Girls – 2nd in 5A West Conference, 5th in 5A State 5A West All Conference: Abby Blakenship, Laura Hewitt, Andrew Mayes, Hayden Proctor Warrior Award: Hayden Proctor, Sarah Caroline Fugett 5A All State: Laura Hewitt, Andrew Mayes We apologize for providing incorrect information in the fall newsletter regarding the Golf Team results. In view of the error we are republishing their 2014 accomplishments.

Cheer and Pom Cheer All Americans – Reagan Broach, Sara Belue, Sarah Caroline Fugett, Kayla Jimmerson, Katherine VanHemert, Ashley Worden, Ashlyn Quickel Pom Warrior Award - Kate Hatfield THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2015

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Warrior State Champions Return to Campus for Ten Year Reunion

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he Little Rock Christian 2005 varsity boys’ basketball team was the first athletic team in the history of our school to play for a state championship. The boys had an amazing season, and concluding it at Alltel (now Verizon) Arena was a dream come true. The entire LRCA community was caught up in the “madness”, and school spirit was at an all-time high with a large crowd in the arena. The Warriors competed against rival Pulaski Academy Bruins for the fourth time that season and defeated them with a buzzer-beater shot after fighting hard for a 37-25 win. The crowd roared as the team celebrated a spectacular win to end their season.

This past February, the 2005 team, along with Coach Dewey Pennell and his wife Marinell, returned for a reunion. Joy and Larry Crain hosted a dinner for the team and their families where they enjoyed watching video of that championship game one more time. Then they returned to LRCA where they cheered the current varsity boys to a win over Farmington and were honored on court during half-time of that game.

Once a Warrior, always a Warrior!

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WHERE ARE THEY NOW? SEVERAL ALUMNI MEMBERS OF THE 2005 CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM TOOK A FEW MINUTES TO FILL US IN ON “WHERE THEY ARE NOW” AND SHARED A FEW THOUGHTS ON THEIR CHAMPIONSHIP MEMORIES. BEN ALEXANDER (’07) – Ben is currently serving his third year as an Infantry Officer in the US Army.

He has been stationed in Georgia, Washington, Afghanistan and Colorado. He will be returning to Arkansas this spring to search for a job and pursue another college degree. Ben’s favorite high school memories are playing basketball, a sport he loved with a team that was like a family to him. The accomplishments and times they shared will always hold a special place in his heart.

MASON LEWIS (’05) – Mason has been working for Colliers International in retail, office and investment commercial real estate for the past five years. He and his wife Kati Beth live in Little Rock and are expecting their first child in March. Mason said “The 2005 season will always be a special memory. I want to thank Coach Pennell for all he did and the guys on the team for never giving up.”

PEYTON GREENWALD (’05) – Peyton is living in Little Rock and working as a banking consultant and auditor for DD&F Consulting Group. He is married to Lindsey Scholl Greenwald who is a fellow alumni and French teacher at LRCA. The Greenwald’s are expecting their first child in April. “Being part of the state championship basketball team ten years ago was one of the highlights of my time at Little Rock Christian” said Peyton.

“What I remember most are the friendships and bonds we established as teammates that year. Through practices, bus rides, locker rooms, and games, we grew to trust and rely on each other. Every person on our team played an important role, which made the state title even sweeter.”

DYLAN WARD (’07)- Since graduating from LRCA Dylan has been an Arkansas Razorback, traveled to New Zealand and graduated from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock with a degree in Marketing.

He is now employed with Mid-South Financial Group as a Financial Advisor. Dylan would like to thank Coach Dewey Pennell for being a model of excellence on and off the court.

KYLE MCLEOD (’06) - Kyle graduated from Baylor University in 2010 and is working as a mechanical engineer for Cameron International’s Drilling Division.

He and his wife Pam live in Houston and attend Houston First Baptist Church. Kyle remembers that “everyone on the team was committed to the goal of bringing home a championship from our coaches to our stars to the bench players. Our coaches didn't give any of us a pass and pushed us to better ourselves and our team. Winning the championship was much more satisfying knowing the work we put in, and I won't ever forget the night we won.”

JOSH RAINE (’06) – Josh and his wife Jennifer live in Tulsa, Oklahoma where Josh works for Atlantic Aviation as a Line Manager. “Leading up to the Championship year I realized we had a really good team and great group of guys. I wouldn't trade anything for Coach Penell’s stories and pep talks. I’m grateful to have been a part of this amazing team.”

MARK MUNSEY (’08) – Mark is living in Little Rock and working with his family in their Landscape Design business. “It was a blessing to be able to play basketball at LRCA for 6 years and make lifelong friendships”, said Mark. Getting the opportunity to be on a State Championship team with some of my best friends is an experience I will never forget.”

BRAD HORRELL (’08)– Brad is currently working at Ecclesia College in Springdale Arkansas in the Office of the Registrar. Brad said “Winning the high school state championship was awesome and my teammates are some of the best guys I know to this day. I will cherish that Championship and our friendships forever.”

LUKE HILL (’08) - Luke received his undergraduate degree from the University of Arkansas in 2012 and will complete law school at the University of Arkansas this May. Luke was a freshman the year of the state championship. He remembers “when the postseason tournaments came around Coach Penell asked the freshmen to travel with the team to the District and Regional tournaments and then asked us to dress out for the state tournament. It was an unbelievable experience for us. Coach and the older guys always treated us just like any other members of the team.”

CHANDLER RACKLEY (’07)– Chandler is working in real estate and lives in Little Rock with his wife Kelli and their daughter Stellar. The Rackleys attend Midtown Baptist Church. “This basketball team means a lot to me”, said Chandler. “The championship is important, but I learned much more from the everyday practicing and life with the guys on the team. As with anyone that you battle with, there is a special bond between us. I am so thankful I had the opportunity to spend so much time with the guys on the team”.

CRAIG SCHLACHTER (’07) – Craig is currently running an online based business and plans on teaching English as a foreign language in an “exotic land” in the coming months. Craig says “the team to me is synonymous with companionship, trust and the joy of competition. The 2005 Championship year taught me that any goal worth attaining must be earned with hard work.”

RONY TCHATCHOUA (’06) – Rony, his wife Brittany and their daughter live in Oregon where Rony coaches youth basketball. "I was blessed to play high school basketball with a group of great guys. I couldn't have asked for better teammates.

The camaraderie and the bond we shared on and off the court was amazing. We trusted and believed in each other and that is why we were successful" explains Rony. "The final shot I took in the Championship game was passed to me by our point guard (Ben Alexander) at a crucial point in the game because he believed in me. Making that shot was the icing on the cake. What we accomplished for the school has been one of my fondest and most memorable memory over the years. Of course, I vividly remember making that last shot as if it was yesterday. The smiles on our coaches, students and parents faces is something I will never forget.

CALVIN VAUGHAN ('06) – Calvin graduated from Baylor Dental School this past year and is currently in his first year of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Residency at the University of Florida. This past summer he married his beautiful wife, Brittany, who is a Dental Hygienist. They are currently living in Gainesville, Florida and are enjoying their first year of marriage. Calvin said “Being part of the championship team brings back great memories with a great group of guys who all worked hard to achieve our goal. I am proud to be a part of this group and enjoy thinking back on how much fun we had.”

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Student Life

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1. The 100th day of school 2. First grade takes a field trip to the Christmas Tree farm 3. Staff Appreciation Week 4. Kindergarten staff celebrates Dr. Seuss Day 5. Pi Day 6. Elementary students visit the library 7. Fourth grade volunteers at the Compassion Center 8. Now I Lay Me Down To Read Day 9. Elementary students collect items for charities 10. Pom Team visits 7th Street Elementary 11. Middle School Girls Basketball 12. Larry's Pizza Takeover 13. Second grade Christmas Chapel 14. Father/ Daughter Dance 15. Larry's Pizza Takeover 16. Now I Lay Me Down To Read Day 17. Middle School collects books for Go Near Ministry

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ARTS Cole Chandler with his mother Dr. Kay Chandler at Carnegie Hall

Makenzie Day has been accepted to the Interlochen Summer Music Program

Band and Orchestra Awards Makenzie Day was selected as one of the top high school cellist in America and has been accepted into the Interlochen Summer Program.

All State Chamber Orchestra- Makenzie Day - cello All State Orchestra- Cooper Lair- Violin, Makenzie Day-cello

Choir Awards The High School Warrior Choir received first division or superior rating at State Choral Performance Assessment.

All-State Choir 2015 - Grace Griffin, Soprano 1, mixed choir and Cole Chandler, Bass 2, men's choir National Honors Performance Choir: Cole Chandler, Bass 2 LRCA's Cole Chandler was one of several hundred students from around the country who auditioned to sing at the National Honors Choir in New York City at Carnegie Hall. This year-long process for Cole began with All-Region and All-State choir honors, then an audition tape in the summer of 2014. The rehearsals and performance of the 250 member choir were led by conductor Dr. Eph Ely. Dr. Ely spent the majority of his career at the Conservatory of Music at the University of Missouri, Kansas City and is known internationally. The choir sang "The Creation" by Willy Richter, "Still wie die Nacht" by Karl Bohm, "Anthem for Spring," by Pietro Mascagni, "Shenandoah/He's Gone Away," arr. by Mark Hayes, and "This Little Light of Mine," also arr. by Mark Hayes. When asked about the experience Cole said," I am amazed at Dr. Ely’s energy, and performing with this choir in Carnegie Hall was awesome!"

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Honors Ensemble at the Conservatory of Music Kansas City Hayden Bradberry-Trumpet Jonathan Crain-Tuba Logan Mathieu-Trombone Callie McLaughlin-Cello MaryEllen O'Kelley-Clarinet Ellie Corbitt-String Bass Jacquelynn Horsey-Violin Madi Stearns-Violin Senior All Region Band -Jeremiah Dodson- Trumpet Senior All Region Orchestra Makenzie Day-Cello Cooper Lair-Violin Junior High All Region Band Amanda Bruner-Clarinet John Ivester-French horn Meagan Morrison- Alto Saxophone Will Walther-French horn Junior All Region Orchestra Paige Sitton- Violin Madi Stearns-Violin Will Walther-French horn John Ivester-French horn

It’s a Shining Christmas Charlie Brown The band, orchestra and drama students performed a very entertaining “It’s a Shining Christmas Charlie Brown” while sharing the true meaning of Christmas with the audience. They performed Christmas classics “Let it Snow”, “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” and “Jingle Bells” and Charlie Brown favorites “Christmas Time is Here” and “Hark the Herald Tubas Sing.”

It was a wonderful way to start the Warrior Christmas Season!

Thy Light Has Come The Junior High Warrior Choir, Senior High Warrior Choir, Belles, Sounds, and the Men’s Ensemble all gave moving performances during the Christmas Choral Concert “ Thy Light Has Come.” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”, “Go, Tell it on the Mountain”, “Mary Sat A-Rockin” and “Noel Fantasy” were all favorites from the evening. The choirs all performed the finale “Joy to the World” together, impressing the audience with their fantastic voices.

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2 Spring 2

Concerts

Spring choir concerts

April 30 | 7:00 p.m. | Warrior Hall

Spring Band and Orchestra Concert May 5 7:00 p.m. | Warrior Hall THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2015

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From left to right BACK ROW - Xin (Frank) Yi – China, Sang Ho Park – Korea, Hyuk Min (Owen) Kwon – Korea, Xian (Clark) Shi – China, Castrese Principe – Italy FRONT ROW - Sujung Bae – Korea, Hanyi Yin – China, Natalia Zwirek – Poland,Katarina Seling - Germany

International Students Making Little Rock Christian Academy Home

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he Little Rock Christian International Student Program popularity of the program by promoting the need for host has soared over the past few years both in number of families within the community. “It is a huge advantage for students and in countries represented. This year eight the international student to live with a current family while international students representing attending school at LRCA,” said Carson.

China, Korea, Italy and Poland are “It not only makes it easier on the student “Every strong college enrolled.

Over the last few years logistically but it helps them instantly feel preparatory school needs a students from Africa, France, Japan, a part of our community.” The tuition good international student Switzerland and Sweden have graced and fees are paid by the international program. We teach our the hallways of the high school. Some student’s family, and oftentimes a students through our Biblical international students stay for one monthly stipend is paid to the host family Worldview program to engage school year while others have a goal to offset everyday expenses. in culture. What better way to of a Warrior diploma. In 2014 three engage culture than to have If your family would like to learn more international students graduated and a international students right about hosting an international student fourth will join them this May. here on our campus.” for the 2015-2016 school year please Jason Carson, Director of Admissions and Advancement, increased the

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– Jason Carson, Director of Admissions and Advancement

contact Jason Carson at jason.carson@ littlerockchristian.com.

The Perry Family Opening Their Home and Hearts to International Students Mitch and Elizabeth Perry are the parents to LRCA students Madison (11th grade), Anna (9th grade) and Isabel (8th grade). They are currently hosting their fifth international student, Castrese from Italy.

Liz Perry shares some of her family’s experiences with hosting.

Why did your family decide to be a host family?

In 1997 Mitch and I were newlyweds when a colleague of mine approached me about hosting. When I mentioned it to Mitch he was very excited so we explored the idea further. We love to travel and to learn about other cultures so we decided to dive in. Yulia from Turkmenistan came to live with us in 1997. We consider Yulia our first daughter.

Madison was born during Yulia’s time with us. Yulia now lives in Boston and is married with two children. We attended her college graduation in Valdosta, Georgia, her graduate school graduation from the University of Massachusetts, her wedding in Boston and her daughter’s first birthday and Christening. She has visited us many times as well.

Since then, we have hosted Annabelle from Canada, Mutsumi from Japan, Kristy from Malaysia (she attended LRCA) and we are currently hosting Castrese from Italy.

What are some of the advantages of hosting an international student?

Typically these students are following their dreams to come to the United States. To know we are helping them pursue this is very rewarding. Often, they have misconceptions about the U.S. and we are in a position to teach them about our great country. Every student we have hosted has left an imprint on our lives and hearts. We believe our lives are richer for having opened our home to them. Our daughters say that they have siblings all over the world. We also know that should we be fortunate enough to travel to their home lands we will be welcomed as family!

What would you tell a family that is considering participating in the program?

I would tell them to understand that having another child in the home will change their family dynamic and they need to be prepared for that. It is important to have a conversation with all family members and make sure everyone is on board with the decision. When choosing a student to host, look carefully at what activities they want to pursue when they come to the United States to be sure they mesh with your lifestyle. For instance, during our first few hosting experiences, we had very young children of our own so we weren’t able to host teens that needed constant transportation to and from sporting events or social outings. We chose students who liked to play piano, cook or read.

What will you miss most about Castrese when he returns to Italy?

Castese is our first male student. With three daughters, we weren’t sure how it was going to work but they treat each other like true siblings. Castrese fit in easily with our family from the start. His English is excellent and he is very agreeable about everything. It has been a great experience. Castrese skypes with his family on Sunday mornings. We don’t understand a single thing they are saying but we can hear their conversation, and let me tell you, Italians are loud!

Castrese is typically quiet and subdued but we see an entirely different side of him on Sunday mornings. It is fun to hear the joy in Castrese’s voice as he catches up with his family and friends. I will miss that time when he is gone. There is definitely a period of adjustment when the student returns home. When our student Yulia left I sat in her bedroom and cried! They become part of your family and your life. Each student we have hosted has left an imprint on our hearts.

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Parent Teacher Fellowship Gives Back to the Community with Powerful Parenting Seminars

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ast summer PTF President Lynn Beardsley asked the question, “What if we hosted seminars at LRCA that would equip our families and others in the community with parenting?” The PTF board voted unanimously to host three seminars during the 20142015 school year.

The Fall seminar addressed students use of social media and two seminars “The Protectors” and “Grace Based Parenting” were held during the third quarter.

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“A GRACE BASED RELATIONSHIP IS SIMPLY TREATING THE PEOPLE YOU LOVE THE WAY GOD TREATS YOU.” DR. TIM KIMMEL

TH 6:30 p.m.

ARCH 10 at TUESDAY, M OR HALL in WARRI

el r. Tim Kimm featuring D mily Matters

seminar

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The Protectors – Freedom from Bullying In January Mr. Paul Coughlin visited campus, speaking not only to parents in the evening, but presenting his important message “The Protectors – Freedom from Bullying” to our students (3rd – 12th grade) over several days. Mr. Coughlin’s presentation was tailored for the various age groups, but the overall message remained the same as he delivered a powerful plan to equip the bystander. Unlike traditional antibullying efforts that focus primarily upon reforming children who bully and which are historically ineffective. The Protectors focuses primarily upon the potential strength, heroic desire, and rescuing capacity of bystanders, transforming them into what are called “Alongside Standers.” Mr. Coughlin believes the use of three simple words, “Leave him alone”, will greatly reduce bullying issues.

Mr. Coughlin stated that he was “so glad to be partners It’s nev with Little Rock Christian Academy to bring courage, er too ear ly to start raising truly great kids... and it’s never too late.life to the entire student character and leadership for With God’s help and a plan, you can rais e truly great kids. Thi con ference a grace-base body and tois future generations."

We photographed the s d, character-driven confident and cooper model to nurture ative kids-and have a gre at tim e in the students remembering sign language pro for cess.courage: two Parenting is the big gest job you will eve Give it your best. clenched fists, a reminderr do. that courage is showing strength you’re scared to do the right thing LittleRockCheven ristian.comwhen | (501) 868-9822 and stand against bullying. @lrcawarriors

Little Rock Christian

Academy

FREE admission

Mr. Coughlin has published two books Raising Bully Proof Kids and No More Christian Nice Guy. Thank you to Rainwater, Holt and Sexton for sponsoring this phenomenal event.

SPONSORED BY

Grace Based Parenting LRCA had the tremendous privilege of hosting an evening with Dr. Tim Kimmel. Dr. Kimmel is the founder and executive director of Family Matters whose goal is to see families transformed by God’s grace into instruments of reformation and restoration. Dr. Kimmel is the author of several books including Grace Based Parenting, Raising Kids for True Greatness and Connecting Church and

Home. Dr. Kimmel shared with the audience tips on making your kids a priority and parenting your kids the same way God parents his – with grace.

The free seminar was open to parents around central Arkansas thanks in part to sponsor Pinnacle Point Healthcare.

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Warriors in Wonderland

Homecoming 2 0 1 5

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espite the abbreviated school week due to Arkansas winter weather, the Warriors had a wonderful time celebrating Homecoming in “Wonderland”. The students returned to school after snow days in time to dress for Super Hero Day and Warrior Spirit Day.

That evening the Homecoming maids were escorted by family members prior to the basketball games, and Brenna Allen was crowned the 2015 Basketball Homecoming Queen. Many alumni attended the festivities and the annual Basketball Homecoming Alumni Chili Supper.

The 2015 Basketball Homecoming maids were introduced along with their basketball escorts during a pep rally that afternoon.

Grace Crain, Grace Huchingson, Sydney Powell, Hailey McFarlane, Brenna Allen, Madison Daugherty, Olivia Allen, Christie Elliott and Claire Fortson (pictured above left to right) represented their classes. The spirit squads entertained the students, parents and faculty with their astounding Alice in Wonderland themed routines.

The Warriors also celebrated Senior Night recognizing Paul Deer, Brooklyn Burks and Annalee Rhodes for their years of dedication and hard work with the Warrior Basketball program. The boys and girls basketball teams played their hearts out for a full house. The Warriors in Wonderland Homecoming and Senior Night was a fun evening filled with school spirit to be remembered for years to come!

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THE OFFICE of ADVANCEMENT PREPARES for SPRING SEASON THERE ARE SEVERAL SPECIAL EVENTS PLANNED THIS SPRING! WE HOPE YOU WILL CHOOSE TO ATTEND ONE OF THESE EVENTS TO SUPPORT THE WARRIOR EDUCATION OR WARRIOR ATHLETICS.

Warrior Club Golf Tournament

Annual Fund Update

The annual Warrior Club Golf Tournament is a win-win! This year’s extravaganza will host hundreds of Warrior supporters on Monday, May 4 at Pleasant Valley Country Club. Check in will begin at 11:00 a.m. and lunch will be provided for all participants before the putting contest and 1:00 p.m. shot gun start. Prizes will be awarded to the winning teams and prizes for a hole-in-one include $50,000 in cash, a Ford Mustang and a Nissan Rogue!

Thank you to the hundreds of families who have given to the 2014-2015 Annual Fund. We are entering this year’s final stretch and are close to achieving our goal of $500,000! The campaign will come to a close on June 30, 2015.

Your team won’t want to miss this event. Thank you to this year’s sponsors: The Crian Team, Crews and Associates, Vantassel Proctor Construction, Pediatrics Plus, Mountaire Chicken, Malmstrom White Company, First National Title Company and Excel Energy Group.

Please contact Tammy Harris (868-9822) in the athletic department or register at www.littlerockchristian.com

With your support we continue to significantly impact families, teachers, students and campus development. The 2014-15 Annual Fund has provided for many families to join our school who otherwise could not afford it. The Annual Fund has also provided additional resources for our classrooms and teachers, and our campus has seen improvements in a several areas. If you have not yet contributed to the 2014-15 Annual Fund, please return the giving card and envelope provided in this publication or give online at littlerockchristian.com/giving. Your participation will make the difference in continuing to provide an excellent Christian education for our community. Little Rock Christian Academy is a 501 c 3 organization and donations are tax-deductible.

O

n Saturday, April 18 the Parent Teacher Fellowship will host Wild About Warriors in Warrior Hall. Wild About Warriors is an annual event to raise funds for Warrior education. The evening includes live and silent auctions, a delicious dinner, live entertainment and fellowship. Guest check-in begins at 6:30 p.m. BidPal mobile bidding technology, introduced at the 2014 event, will again be used for the silent auction and “Warrior Wish” campaign. Online bidding begins March 30 and is available at www.wildaboutwarriors.com. The live auction is sure to be a thrill with Wilson Auctioneer’s Doug Westgate. You won’t want to miss the opportunity to go home with a set of braces from Dr. John Daniel, a duck hunting excursion, a Razorback tailgating party or a college bound package valued at over $2500!

The “Warrior Wish” was introduced last year and was a smashing success. Through real time donations on smartphones donors raised over $7,000 for classroom improvement projects. This year’s Warrior Wish will fund a new Elementary STEM lab. Sponsors for the event include: Landers Auto Group, Pediatrics Plus, Steve and Sandy Landers and the Bank of the Ozarks.

Make plans now to join the PTF, school leadership and faculty, and hundreds of parents as we join together to raise money for our children’s Blue Ribbon education. Buy your tickets at www.wildaboutwarriors.com or in the Warrior Store.

THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2015

21

The Li family Anna with her students from Kalahan Academy Anna planting rice in Imugan

A LUMN I STORY

Anna Li Class of 2011

L

RCA Alumni Anna Li '11 will graduate from Wheaton College this May. Anna recently spent six months in the Philippines as part of Wheaton's Human Needs and Global Resources program. In this interview she shares how her LRCA experiences led her to where she is now.

How did LRCA prepare you for your higher education?

I owe so much of who I am to the teachers of LRCA. The decisions I made in college--pursuing graphic design, majoring in English, and deciding to teach--have spurred from teachers who were committed to encouraging and mentoring me throughout high school. It's a unique part of LRCA, where teachers not only desire to educate students but to help them to hone and ultimately thrive in their skills.

What was your favorite high school class or teacher?

Why did you choose Wheaton College?

I wanted a college that would not only educate me, but would also prepare me to do extraordinary things for Christ.

Wheaton was an environment that was both rigorous academically, but also spiritually-centered.

Would you recommend Wheaton to LRCA students?

Absolutely. Wheaton is challenging when it comes to academics, but it is also one of the most supportive environments I have been in. The students are driven and sincere. The professors are genuinely invested in the students they teach. My spiritual and intellectual growth has never been challenged and cultivated the way that Wheaton has prepared me.

Tell us about the internship you recently completed in the Philippines.

Senior campout was the most fun tradition. We staked out the cafeteria the night before school and didn't sleep the whole night. The next day, we performed a flash mob at lunch to the song "Jai Ho."

I participated in the Human Needs and Global Resources program through Wheaton. It is a six month internship where students are sent to a country in the Global South to work on projects in their major and learn about development and poverty. I was in a rural village of the Philippines where I taught English at a high school. I made a magazine similar to the NCTE Literary Magazine with my 10th grade students where they wrote poetry in their local dialects. Poetry has never been written in some of these languages before. It was a difficult time being the only foreigner in a new context, but I learned so much from the people there, and they truly became a family to me.

What impact did LRCA have on your spirituality?

What are your plans after graduating from Wheaton?

Sometimes it seems as though intellect and faith cannot coexist together. However, I appreciate that LRCA always seeks to integrate faith in every subject. Understanding how these subjects--math, science, English--are integrated with faith creates such a rich, holistic understanding.

I am going to be teaching high school English through Teach for America in Chicago. I wanted to continue seeking the intersection of English and social justice, and TFA seemed like a perfect fit to continue that. I only hope I can be something reminiscent of the amazing high school teachers who shaped me.

I loved NCTE Literary Magazine with Mrs. Bakke. It's such an incredible opportunity to invite students who do not typically consider themselves as writers or artists to showcase their work, and together their pieces create a powerful, collaborative voice.

Do you have a favorite high school memory?

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THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2015

GRANDPARENTS DAY Friday, April 24 at 9:00 a.m.

3 year olds – 4th grade students will be performing

LITTLE ROCK CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

WARRIOR CLUB GOLF TOURNAMENT Pleasant Valley Country Club May 4, 2015

Sign up in the athletic office (501) 868-9822

Nonprofit U.S. Postage PAID Permit #1568 Little Rock, AR

Little Rock Christian Academy 19010 Cantrell Road • Little Rock, AR 72223

Little Rock Christian Academy

The

Fine Arts Department Presents

Wizard of

Directed by Kay Basham & Leslie Basham

Oz

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

Sunday

APRIL 9

APRIL 10

APRIL 11

APRIL 12

7 pm

7 pm

2:30 & 7 pm

2:30 pm

Adults $10.00 & Students $5.00 *All tickets are reserved seating, advanced tickets available at the Warrior Store Tickets also available 30 minutes prior to each show at Warrior Hall Box Office

LittleRockChristian.com/WizardOfOz

2015 Fine Arts Presenting Sponsor: Hickingbotham Investments