MEET OUR FAB FOUR MCS PRINCIPALS
17|SPOTLIGHT
The Fab Four of Faith
Meet the Principals Leading Maranatha Christian Schools
20|PERFORMING ARTS
Aladdin Success
The Talented Cast Shined in Another Amazing Production by our Performing Arts Department
22|INSIDE LOOK
Building a Modern-Day Ark
How the ARC Department Provides Student Support at MCS
25|
Grandparent’s Day and Operation Christmas Child
Dear MCS Friends and Families,
Our founder and former Senior Pastor, Ray Bentley, had a remarkable vision: to establish a thriving Christian School that would serve as a blessing to both our local and extended communities. His heart was to prepare young men and women for the roles God would call them to in adulthood-whether in missions, medicine, law, government, athletics, the arts, and beyond. He referred to these future leaders as “roaring lambs”: vibrant, courageous, joyful, Spirit-filled disciples of Christ, eager for training and truth to fulfill their mission of transforming the world in every sphere, reaching even to the farthest corners.
Since our modest beginnings with just six kindergarten and first-grade students in 1991, Maranatha Christian Schools (MCS) has been deepening and expanding its roots for the past 33 years. With God’s ongoing love, support, and nurturing through His Spirit, MCS is certain to carry on at our fullest potential until Christ’s return-Maranatha! As stewards of God’s work and His ever-growing kingdom at MCS, we aspire to be faithful “arborists,” helping the school flourish in the way God intends, maximizing our purpose and blessings for our cherished community of learners.
This vision of “Transformed Lives, Transforming the World” was planted in Ray Bentley’s heart by God and has flourished over the years. Now, after three decades of dedicated mission and vision, our commitment to this purpose has never been stronger! Daniel Bentley, who currently leads as the Senior Pastor of Maranatha Chapel, passionately upholds this vision, just as his father did. He continues to nurture the foundations laid by both his earthly and heavenly Father’s ministries. Together, with Pastor Daniel, we remain fully devoted to this mission and vision.
Thank you for joining us on this remarkable journey of transformation. Our prayer is that you and your family will continue to thrive here at MCS!
“May the Lord bless you and keep you; may the Lord shine His face upon you and be gracious to you; may the Lord turn His face toward you and give you peace.”
Numbers
6:22-27
In Christ, Jess Hetherington MCS Superintendent
Ray Bentley
Founding Pastor of Maranatha Chapel and Maranatha Christian Schools
6/21/57 - 1/4/22
Gathering
Daniel Bentley
Senior Pastor at Maranatha Chapel and MCS School Board President
Maranatha Christian Schools Campus
“For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.”
Ephesians 2:10
“One of the best fall sports seasons to date...”
- Steve Whitley, MCS Athletic Director
In what could go down as one of the best fall sports seasons to date, the Maranatha Eagles athletic program saw a Division II girls volleyball team make a playoff run, a boys cross country team travel to state, and a football team that has been revamped and reloaded, ready for successful seasons to come.
In her 4th season as Head Coach, Kolby Bentley has created a powerhouse team that has now gone undefeated in league play for two consecutive seasons. The Lady Eagles finished 29-7 in Division II with a 12-0 Pacific League record, their second straight undefeated league season. The well-rounded team featured several standouts including Sophomore Ellaina Lindberg who was named Pacific League Player of the Year. Joining her as 1st Team All-Selections are Freshman Presley Gibson, Junior Quinn Kaechele and Senior Sage Owens. With a final tally of 980 assists, setter Quinn Kaechele led all of the San Diego section and finished ranked #9 in the state. After defeating Fallbrook at home in the first round of the CIF playoffs, the Eagles were out matched by a fierce La Jolla Country Day team ending their hopes of a CIF title run.
Not to be out-shined, the Junior Varsity Volleyball Team finished with an undefeated 11-0 league record as well, adding to the amazing pipeline the volleyball program has coming along. In what has become one of the school’s leading sports, these girls continue to put up impressive stats in fall sports.
An accomplishment previously only done by a few individuals, this is the first time that MCS qualified a team for the state meet. Head Coach Peter Gregory, along with coaches Kristen Baltgalvis and Thomas Polhill, made the trip to Fresno along with the team’s top runners. Senior Nick Ash turned in the best performance finishing 85th out of 201 runners with a time of 17:02. He was followed by Senior Greg Yehilevsky, Freshman Jeremiah Vogel and Sophomores Jacob Jaffin, Ayden LeFleur, Ozzie Leighton and Jordan Sleder. Congrats to the entire team for making history!
Head Coach Nick Novak, now in his 4th season, took a young team this year and created a very appealing culture with Senior leaders like JD Class and Grayson Kennedy helping bring along these budding stars. The Eagles jumped off to a hot start of 2-1 underneath Freshman quarterback London Jan van Rensburg, who showed that he has a great future. When Junior quarterback Jake Locker arrived as a mid-season transfer, the downfield passing game opened up, racking up nearly 240 yards per game in the air. His favorite target was Hudson Heinrichs who hauled in 61 catches for 968 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Junior Aaron Tasin led the team with 134 tackles and was an absolute force on defense, earning Defensive Player of the Year honors for the second year in-a-row. Senior JD Class finished off his incredible high school career with 42 catches and 8 touchdowns and on defense made 33 tackles and 6 sacks. Grayson Kennedy, a two-way wrecking ball, completed his senior season with 649 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns and defensively he was 2nd with 80 tackles. Heinrichs, Tasin, Class and Kennedy were named 1st Team All-League along with the Niguidula brothers, Ryan and Nathan, who had fantastic seasons both offensively and defensively.
A team that is built around leadership and glorifying God through All Things, Coach Novak has continued to develop these athletes into impressive young men. Built for the future, this team is ready to make a title run next season.
Everybody who plays for Maranatha football has grit, toughness and a faith in God that forges the team together like nothing else. We believe all things are possible through God and all the glory goes to Him.
- Nick Novak
In a room with blueprints and boundless ideas, a team of visionaries at Maranatha Christian Schools gathers around sprawling plans, picturing new classrooms, expanded offices, and spaces designed for growth. Lively discussions unfold as they examine each phase of the master plan, exploring ways to transform the bustling campus to better serve the MCS community. With an upcoming feasibility study in Spring 2025, the expansion project promises to elevate both learning spaces and student experiences.
“Our priority is always what’s best for the students,” said MCS Superintendent Jess Hetherington. “This expansion isn’t just about adding space; it’s about providing an environment where students can thrive in their gifts and God given talents.”
· PHASE ONE ·
This past summer, MCS took important steps to alleviate space constraints while setting the stage for the larger expansion to come. Director of Operations and Campus Security Nick Bertaux and Ron Harper of Harper Communities spearheaded key renovations, including updates to modular classrooms — the “cottages” — which received new roofs, fresh carpeting, and upgraded landscaping to serve the growing student body in the interim. We are proud to announce that this project is complete.
“It’s all about stewarding our resources well,” Hetherington explains. “Every space on this campus should reflect our care and commitment to our campus community.”
Now the focus is on the S-Building. We are adding in new administration offices on the East side of the building. The goal is to have the S-Building office addition complete by the beginning of the 2025 school year. These updates mark a small but important beginning, creating breathing room for both students and staff.
“Every space on this campus should reflect our care and commitment to our campus community.”
- Jess Hetherington
· PHASE TWO ·
The second phase, scheduled to begin in Spring or Summer 2025, will transform the S-Building into a vibrant center for performing arts and music. By adding classrooms, a black box theater, and flexible rehearsal spaces, this project will give MCS’s Performing Arts and Music Department a dedicated home.
A further redesign will move the athletic training center to a new mezzanine in the gym, making efficient use of space and expanding fitness resources for student athletes. The updated athletic center will include state-of-the-art fitness equipment and athletic training rooms and offices.
Athletic spirit-wear store with promotional display to access Eagle gear at all times.
Double-stacked storage to accommodate Performing Arts props, costumes, and instruments.
“
We’re creating more than just a campus... This is about building a legacy, a place where future generations can pursue academic excellence grounded in their faith.
- Jess Hetherington
· PHASE THREE ·
The capstone of the expansion is a state-of-the-art academic excellence/multi-use building. Designed to serve MCS’s growing student population, this facility will include adaptable classrooms, a multi-purpose area, and specialized spaces for learning and activities. It will offer an inspiring environment for young students to explore their faith, creativity, and academic interests.
“We’re creating more than just a campus,” Hetherington shares. “This is about building a legacy, a place where future generations can pursue academic excellence grounded in their faith.”
To help bring the expansion to life, MCS has appointed Brooks Fages as its new Development Director. Working alongside The Focus Group, a Christian development consulting firm, Fages will lead fundraising efforts and community engagement, including campus tours to share MCS’s vision with families, staff, and partners. “Our goal is to create a lasting legacy that benefits every student who comes through our doors,” says Fages. “We’re eager to see the impact of this project on our community.”
Throughout the planning process, Maranatha Christian Schools has drawn inspiration from scripture, anchoring its vision in faith. Superintendent Jess Hetherington and the team find comfort and guidance in two powerful verses:
“Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.”
-Psalm 127:1
“And then God answered: ‘Write this. Write what you see. Write it out in big block letters so that it can be read on the run. This vision-message is a witness pointing to what’s coming. It aches for the coming—it can hardly wait! And it doesn’t lie. If it seems slow in coming, wait. It’s on its way. It will come right on time.’”
-Habakkuk 2:2-3
In her office, surrounded by stacks of documents and a small fleet of rubber ducks, Mrs. Tara Pritchett, Maranatha Christian Schools’ Assistant Principal of the elementary division, is in full “captain” mode. With the accreditation theme set as “Welcome Aboard USS MCS,” Pritchett has been steering the school through the rigorous process with a blend of focus, humor, and unshakeable commitment. She pores over the intricate 150-page report, which includes contributions and evidence support given by all MCS staff; to include teachers from all four divisions, TA’s, facilities, security, administrators, board members, afterschool care, athletics, performing arts, nurses and IT staff alike. Each piece of data, photograph, and lesson plan represents a part of the school’s heart and dedication to excellence.
For MCS, this accreditation journey is more than just meeting criteria. With dual accreditation by the Association of Christian Teachers and Schools (ACTS) and the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC), MCS aims to reaffirm its reputation as a top-tier Christian institution, where academic rigor and faith-led learning go handin-hand. And for Pritchett, the rubber ducks are more than a playful decoration; they’re a reminder that the entire MCS community is on this voyage together, each member helping to keep the ship steady.
“There isn’t one person who doesn’t put their all into what they do every day.”
- Tara Pritchett
Accreditation is an extensive review that happens once every six years, but the groundwork takes more than a year. Each accrediting body brings unique standards to the table. WASC, known for its high standards of academic rigor, reviews educational quality and effectiveness, holding schools accountable for delivering exceptional student learning outcomes. Meanwhile, ACTS evaluates how well MCS fosters spiritual growth and faith-based values alongside academics. Together, the accreditations validate that MCS is delivering a comprehensive, Christ-centered education.
Preparation for this intense review began last summer, with MCS staff organizing into twelve teams to create a comprehensive report that covers everything from curriculum, philosophy, student data, admissions records, finance, facilities, and governance to student activities. “There isn’t one person who doesn’t put their all into what they do every day,” Pritchett says, reflecting the shared sense of purpose that fills each page of this document.
From April 8-10, 2025, the accreditation team, with eight reviewers on board, will dock at MCS for a full, three-day evaluation. These visitors will step into classrooms, attend chapels, examine facilities, and meet with board members, church leaders, and focus groups, scrutinizing every aspect of school life. To prepare, a nine-member task force has been meeting weekly since the summer, and a 14-member parent team has contributed insights on everything from culture to operations, capturing the essence of MCS’s community.
“We have the best teachers. Being able to observe them on the other side has been such a blessing. I am blown away by how amazing they are,” Pritchett shares.
With every corner of the school contributing to the accreditation prep, MCS is showing that it’s not only meeting standards but exceeding them with enthusiasm.
On the final day of the visit, the accreditation team will deliver immediate feedback, providing MCS with a snapshot of its strengths and areas for growth. This isn’t just about compliance—it’s a guide to ensure that MCS continues to meet the high standards that parents and the community have come to expect.
Ultimately, MCS’s accreditation journey is a testament to the school’s commitment to nurturing students academically, socially, and spiritually. With a playful theme and a serious dedication to excellence, “Welcome Aboard USS MCS” is more than a tagline; it’s a call to embark on a shared mission, one that strengthens the school’s future and sets sail toward new horizons. ■
“MCS is showing that it’s not only meeting standards but exceeding them with enthusiasm.”
- Tara Pritchett
MEET THE PRINCIPALS LEADING
MARANATHA CHRISTIAN SCHOOLS
At Maranatha Christian Schools (MCS), each day begins with a mission—to transform young lives with faith, hope, and a deep sense of purpose. At the helm of this mission stand four fabulous principals, each with a unique story and a heartfelt commitment to nurturing students in a Christ-centered environment. From the joyous laughter echoing through the Early Education halls to the thought-provoking discussions in the High School classrooms, these leaders are shaping the future, one life at a time.
Get to know the MCS Principals—Patrice Andrews, Mary Cook, Kelly Rodriguez, and Pete Plotnik—as they share what makes their days fulfilling, their goals for this year, and the faith that fuels their journey. Their stories reveal the heart of Maranatha’s mission: to instill knowledge, character, and a love for the Lord in every student who walks through the doors.
For Mrs. Patrice Andrews, who has been serving as Early Education Principal for 15 years, each day is marked by laughter—the laughter of young children discovering the world around them. A former Financial Services Manager, Mrs. Andrews felt God’s calling to Early Education over 25 years ago, leading her to dedicate her life to nurturing children’s development. “The best part of my day is listening to the joyful laughter of the children we serve,” she says. “Their giggles are proof of God’s presence on our campus and that we are making a difference in doing the Lord’s work.”
Her goal for this year is to deepen the relationships within the MCS community, ensuring students and families feel connected and valued. Guided by Psalm 29:11, Mrs. Andrews is committed to fostering a positive and faith-filled atmosphere for every child.
Mrs. Andrews can’t resist chocolate, is a pizza lover, and starts her day with coffee.
For 11 years, Mrs. Mary Cook has been a steady and enthusiastic presence as the Elementary Principal at MCS. Her journey began in 2004 as a third-grade teacher, and she later took on the role of Curriculum Director before becoming principal. “I love my job!” she exclaims, describing how each interaction with students and teachers brings her joy. “The best part of my day is being in the classroom with students. They always make me smile, and our teachers inspire me with their talent and commitment.”
This year, Mrs. Cook’s priority is to continue building a strong, supportive community for both students and their families. With her favorite passage, Philippians 4:5-7, as her guide, Mrs. Cook approaches each day with love and grace, making MCS a wonderful place to learn and grow.
Mrs. Cook loves Italian food, chocolate, and is a die-hard Oregon Ducks fan.
03 04
As Junior High Principal, Mrs. Kelly Rodriguez brings a lifelong passion for Christian education to MCS. Having grown up in a Christian school herself, she understands the importance of gospel-centered learning. After pursuing a degree in journalism and a brief career in wedding planning, Mrs. Rodriguez found her true calling in education and has been inspiring students ever since. “Walking through the hallways and saying good morning to everyone is my favorite part of the day,” Mrs. Rodriguez shares.
Now in her eighth year at MCS, she is focused on “pouring the love of our Savior into our students and families.” Her favorite Bible verse, Zechariah 4:6B, captures her faith-led approach: “‘Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,’ says the Lord Almighty.”
Outside of school, Mrs. Rodriguez loves spending time with her family, sharing laughter, and enjoying the beach.
Mrs. Rodriguez prefers the beach over the mountains and, although she loves the MCS Eagles, she admits to cheering for the Dodgers.
A pillar of MCS for nearly two decades, High School Principal Mr. Pete Plotnik is on a mission to prepare students not only for college but for a life rooted in faith. Starting his career in private industry, Mr. Plotnik soon felt led to education, where he has made a lasting impact through teaching, coaching, and now leading MCS’s High School. “Any interaction with students is the best part of my day,” Mr. Plotnik says. “Even in difficult moments, there are rich opportunities for relationship building, growth, and understanding.”
Mr. Plotnik’s goal this year is to bring to life MCS’s vision of “Transformed Lives, Transforming the World.” His favorite book of the Bible is Esther and Jeremiah 29:11 is a personal inspiration as he guides students in faith and purpose. Beyond campus, Mr. Plotnik enjoys outdoor adventures, particularly fishing trips to Rock Creek Lake, a favorite tradition since childhood.
Mr. Plotnik is a fellow Dodgers fan who treasures his annual fishing trips to the Sierra Nevada, reconnecting with the natural world he loves.
Performing Arts
Under bright lights and on stage in front of an interactive student and volunteer designed set, dozens of MCS students took part in Aladdin Junior. Hundreds of hours in rehearsals led to four jam packed days of shows at Maranatha Chapel.
Eighth graders, Grayson Daniels and Claire Bradford, starred as Aladdin and Princess Jasmine. Asher Burke, eighth grader, took on the role of Jafar and seventh grader Matthew Nelson dazzled the stage as the Genie. Thank you to all of our parent volunteers and MCS Performing Arts Director Jayne Howard for another amazing show.
Maranatha Christian Schools has built a modern day ARK with the launch of the new Academic Resource and Counseling (ARC) Department. It’s goal is to provide refuge, guidance and support to current students who are struggling with mild social-emotional and learning challenges. Much like Noah’s Ark in the Bible, the ARC is a safe, sheltered environment where students can work on challenges and grow socially-emotionally, academically, and spiritually.
“While we don’t have the same resources for special services as public schools, we still have the heart to help our students who are struggling to access our curriculum and thrive at our school,” explained Deedee Chackel, Director of the ARC Department and School Psychologist. “It’s really about blessing our current student population and staying true to our mission, vision, and values.”
The ARC has started two distinct student support programs; the Social-Emotional Program and the Academic Program. The Social Emotional-Program is led by our School Counselor, Mrs. Melinda Morey. Mrs. Morey provides oversight and collaboration with the Elementary teachers in facilitating our social-emotional learning curriculum, Friendzy. She also provides brief, solution-focused counseling, support, and resources to our Junior High and High School students so students can learn to thrive while on campus.
“The ARC builds confidence in the student, and brings hope to the parents.”
- MCS Parent
Deedee Chackel Director of the ARC Department and School Psychologist
The ARC program is truly a blessing... It embodies the heart of Maranatha, equipping students to overcome challenges while growing in confidence and faith.
- Deedee Chackel
The Academic Program is led by our School Psychologist, Deedee Chackel, and run by Learning Specialists. It provides academic support to students identified with mild learning differences in Elementary through Junior High. The program is currently at capacity, with a waitlist, highlighting the demand for its services. Referrals typically come from teachers who notice persistent academic or behavioral struggles in the classroom. Students must meet specific eligibility requirements to qualify for the program.
“This program is not open to newly enrolled students at this time,” emphasized Mary Cook, Elementary Principal. “It takes time to identify learning difficulties, and unfortunately we don’t have the ability to open this program to everyone.”
The ARC Academic Program offers three levels of support, ranging from teacher consultations to one-on-one interventions with Learning Specialists. Each student receives a tailored Student Action Plan designed to help them succeed within the MCS curriculum, which remains rigorous and unmodified.
Housed in a newly renovated space, the ARC Academic Program reflects the school’s commitment to holistic education. The room, once a fifth-grade classroom, has been transformed into a vibrant hub of individualized learning and growth.
“We’re here to provide more individualized help,” said Chackel. “So far, this program has made a significant impact in the lives of these students.” One parent shared, “The ARC builds confidence in the student, and brings hope to the parents.”
ARC Bible Verse
“I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made..” Psalm 139:14
The ARC Academic Program hopes to expand into High School, ensuring a smooth transition for current Junior High participants. This growth underscores MCS’s commitment to equipping students for success at every stage of their education.
“It embodies the heart of Maranatha, equipping students to overcome challenges while growing in confidence and faith,” said Chackel ■
Coming
12.08.24
Over 500 grandparents attended our annual Grandparent’s Day celebration. They were blessed by a special performance, enjoyed a delicious buffet, visited classrooms and given handmade tokens from their grandchildren. It was a treasured morning, spending time with our loved ones and introducing them to the community that is MCS.
12.04.24
MCS partners annually with Samaritan’s Purse and participates in the outreach project Operation Christmas Child. OCC collects shoebox gifts filled with toys, school supplies and personal care items and sends them to children in need around the globe. Our students helped pack over 700 shoeboxes with items donated by our amazing Maranatha families. The project delivers not only the joy of what, for many kids, is their first gift ever, but also gives them a tangible expression of God’s love.
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