2016 Fall Patriot Press

PATRIOT PRESS

EXCITING UPDATES AND ADDITIONS In case you have not had a chance to see all of the improvements completed over the summer, here’s a look at the 2015 ALL IN projects.

ACTIVITY BUS WRAPS

Patriots are traveling in style in the newly wrapped buses.

EXPANDED PARKING

The elementary lot was expanded to eliminate a few parking headaches.

MOBILE LISTENING LAB

Foreign language classes are now using the listening labs for more personalized instruction and speaking.

STADIUM RESTROOMS

The stadium restrooms have a fresh new look - it is worth taking a peek to see the clean, updated restrooms, upgraded from floor to ceiling.

RISERS FOR THE AUDITORIUM

We now own a complete set of risers, raising our students to new heights.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to ALL IN last year. Your generosity helped the school to complete all of these projects within one year!

THE PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE THROUGH CHRIST

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2016

PATRIOT PRESS

FROM THE IN THIS ISSUE

HEADMASTER

FROM THE HEADMASTER ................................ 2 FROM THE BOARD .......................................... 3 HIGH SCHOOL ..............................................4-5 HOMECOMING EAGLE SCOUT AWARD MOLE DAY SENIORS OF THE MONTH SENIOR INTERFACE NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS

MIDDLE SCHOOL ..........................................6-7 TRIBES’ DAY PUNCTUATION DAY NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS MIDDLE SCHOOL ROBOTICS

PACK AND PASS ...........................................8-9 ELEMENTARY SCHOOL .............................10-11 WE ARE THIRD ELEMENTARY DISCOVERY TRANSPORTATION DAY PARADE WALK-A-THON THIRD GRADE AT GILCREASE

STAFF AND FACULTY ..................................12-15 ATHLETICS ................................................16-17 FOOTBALL VOLLEYBALL CROSS COUNTRY COACH’S CORNER STUDENT ATHLETE LETTERS OF INTENT

COMMUNITY & CULTURE

Part of our vision statement proclaims that Metro Christian Academy will be a school “noted for its Christian culture.” While this is an admirable goal, I think that it merits further conversation, especially given the fact that the term “culture” is one of the most difficult English words to define.

In a broad sense, culture is explained as the beliefs, customs, arts, and values of a particular society at a given point in history. As Christians, we often talk about changing or influencing culture in a manner that aligns our contemporary world with Christian values. As a Christian school, my prayer is that each of us influence the culture around us in a Godly way. Yet, the truth is that we are all probably more influenced by society than we want or admit.

So how do we shape culture without being swayed by society? The most productive way to influence society is to create a culture centered on Christian ideals. Said another way, we cannot dispel the darkness by cursing the darkness, we can only dispel the darkness by being a light (Matthew 5:16).

Culture is best created in community. A group of diverse people living in “common unity” with each other have a unique opportunity to create their own culture. As a Christian educational community, we have the opportunity to create a vibrant culture centered around Judeo-Christian beliefs, unique customs, and thriving arts and activities.

Influencing the culture around us begins by getting to know one another while loving and supporting those within our own community. As we identify our similarities and accept differences, we begin to create trust, understanding, love, and blessing - all of which will help accomplish our mission and positively impact those around us.

Together, we can strengthen our Christian culture and be a light in the community. In this Christmas season and for the exciting New Year ahead, I wish you and your family the fullness of God’s blessing, provision, and health. I appreciate your involvement and support of Metro Christian Academy.

Sincerely,

FINE ARTS .................................................18-19 SPEECH AND DEBATE SUMMER AT SCAD SCHOLASTIC ART COMPETITIONS ONE ACT PLAY

COMMUNITY ................................................. 20 ADVANCEMENT/ALUMNI UPDATES .......... 21-22

Roger Gerstenberger Headmaster

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FROM THE BOARD THE MASTER’S PLAN

At a recent Metro Board meeting, we discussed how God led Nehemiah to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.

Although Nehemiah was in captivity at the time, and the task seemed impossible, God blessed him by providing him the vision, opportunity, and resources to accomplish the job. Nehemiah succeeded because he was faithfully carrying out what God already planned to accomplish.

2016 2016 -- 2017 2017 BOARD BOARD MEMBERS MEMBERS

Quinn Bierman Stephen Allen, Chairman Quinn Bierman Stephen Allen, Chairman Don Burns Tanda Francis, Vice-Chair Don Burns Tanda Francis, Vice-Chair Matt Cain Jennifer Smith, Secretary Matt Cain Jennifer Smith, Secretary Jarrod Frie Candace McNeese, PTF Representative Jarrod Frie Candace McNeese, PTF Representative Carrie Fater, PTF Co-President (Not pictured) Scott Horton (Not pictured) Carrie Fater, PTF Co-President (Not pictured) Scott Horton (Not pictured) Heidi Serage, PTF Co-President (Not pictured) Heather Thompson Heidi Serage, PTF Co-President (Not pictured) Heather Thompson

Likewise, we are seeking God’s will as we look towards the future of Metro and the plans God has for us. We believe that now, more than ever, our children need a Christ-centered education, that integrates faith with learning, and provides them with the skills (both educational and spiritual) to not only enter the world, but change it. We want God’s Vision for Metro because we know we can succeed if we align our plans with His. We want our Master Plan to be the Master’s Plan.

Pictured below are the various phases of the Master Plan development. As you can see we are currently in the Design Phase. Hopefully you have had the opportunity to provide input to our architectural firm, GH2, at one of the many events they have attended, and through the electronic survey of our facility needs.

Now that the priorities are developed, GH2 has begun to design and finalize the Master Plan. We anticipate completion of the Master Plan in early 2017 and we look forward to showing the final product to the Metro community. It will be at that time that we transition into the implementation phase which will include developing cost estimates, determining funding models and phasing, a capital campaign, and eventually construction. Although actual construction may not start as soon as everyone wants, we believe the current process will assist Metro for years into the future as we continually seek the Lord’s Will to conform our plans into the Master’s Plan. As scripture reminds us in Psalm 127:1, “[u]nless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” We look forward to your continued involvement as we continue this exciting journey together.

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PATRIOT PRESS EAGLE SCOUT AWARD Wyatt Johnson, has been a member of the 2222 High Adventure Troop for 16 years, since he earned his Webelos Badge in 2000. With his troop, he regularly goes rock climbing, mountain hiking, white water rafting, and camps at Camp Hale, Camp Garland, and Philmont. Last summer, Wyatt and his father Curtis, also an Eagle Scout, spent seven days aboard Sea Base in the Bahamas, living and sailing around the Abaco Islands, catching fish, snorkeling, and exploring.

For his Eagle Scout Project, he selected the national BillionGraves Ancestry Project. To complete the project, Wyatt utilized an iPhone App to locate gravestones at a local cemetery and then registered the graves to various national geneology websites. In addition to bringing the grave site locations online, he cleaned headstones - leaving them in a better condition than when they were found.

2016 HOMECOMING The 2016 Homecoming Week was full of school spirit and activities as the school celebrated “A Blast from the Past.” Students and faculty participated in the Color Wars, dressed up in costumes from the 1990’s and the 3090’s, and dressed up as their childhood dreams for “When I Grow Up” dress day. Homecoming Event Nights included a P.E. Night for middle school and high school, where the students enjoyed games from their childhood on the lawn, a Bonfire Night that included a macaroni and cheese cookout competition, and a movie on the lawn.

MOLE DAY

At the Homecoming Game, on Friday night, September 30th, the Patriots defeated the Stillwell Indians 41 - 7 at Patriot Stadium, continuing their winning streak over Coweta, Oklahoma Christian, Holland Hall, and Poteau. Homecoming Week concluded when students dressed up as their favorite “Dynamic Duos” for the annual Homecoming Dance that was held Saturday night at Metro Christian Academy.

In honor of Mole Day, annually celebrated on October 23rd in honor of Avogadro’s Number (6.02x1023) students in Mr. Cunningham’s and Mrs. Warner’s chemistry classes were assigned an element from the periodic table to research and create a three-dimensional mole to creatively represent the element’s properties and uses.

Congratulations to the 2016 Metro Christian Academy Homecoming Court!

FRESHMEN CLASS Lauren Gastineau Rachel Gurley Riley Jackson Asher Link

SOPHOMORE CLASS May Gao Sophie Serage Harrison Blake Justin Dunlap

SCEPTER BEARER AND CROWN BEARER Sutton Grunewald and Elizabeth Wing

JUNIOR CLASS Ashley Barnes Megan Smith Ben Burchard Connor Dilley

SENIOR CLASS MeriGrace Francis Cameron Mitchell Jack Roe Gray Strickland

MISS MCA AND MR. PATRIOT Miss Jane Lee and Mr. Marty Knapp

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE SENIORS OF THE MONTH AUGUST SEPTEMBER OCTOBER

JACK ROE

MALORY JACKSON

COLEMAN DAVIS

SIERRA MUNOZ

OTE STATON

BAILEY FRENCH

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HIGH SCHOOL AIDEN BLACK

ADDI SMITH

MATT BURCHARD

CHRISTIAN DEMAIO

JONATHAN FENNELL

ROMAN BANDY

SENIOR CLASSROOM WITHOUT WALLS A casual conversation between Roger Gerstenberger and High School English teacher Kathryne Pile has resulted in an exciting, outside-the-classroom experience — Interface.

Interface gives seniors a two-day, on-the-job exposure to the work world. Parents Lori Strickland and Marc McKee joined Mrs. Pile and Tegan Sevier to contact more than 90 businesses. These local partners generously provided opportunities for Metro students to visit onsite, attend meetings, work on projects, and gather career advice.

Students selected their Interface sponsor on a first-come, first-served basis, with many students arriving at school at the crack of dawn on “sign-up day” to be at the front of the line. Then the students put their business-writing skills to work, drafting e-mails, designing questionnaires, writing thank-you notes, and completing a detailed project report.

The project raised awareness of the interdisciplinary focus of the work world and provided focus as seniors approach college: • “For over a year, I have known the call on my life is mission work, but I never knew how to get there. The sponsor explained to me how best to reach my goals .”

• “The experience helped me tremendously and got me connected with some great contacts who were willing to offer future help. I feel I am more prepared to make a college and career decision.”

• “In all honesty, this was the most fun learning experience of which I have been a part.”

If your company is interested in partnering with a Metro senior, contact Tegan at 918-745-9868 x 133 or tsevier@metroca.com.

NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARS Aiden Black and Addi Smith were named SemiFinalists in the 2017 National Merit Scholarship Program. Almost 1.6 million juniors in more than 22,000 high schools entered the scholarship program by taking the 2015 PSAT, the National Merit Scholarship qualifying test. Aiden and Addi are two of nearly 16,000 SemiFinalists competing for 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth about $33 million offered next spring.

Matthew Burchard, Christian DeMaio, and Jonathan Fennell were named Commended Students in the 2017 National Merit Scholarship Program. Commended students are recognized for the exceptional academic promise demonstrated by their outstanding performance on the PSAT. Roman Bandy was recognized into the National Hispanic Recognition Program. Roman is one of 5,000 out of 250,000 Hispanic/Latino junior students nationwide recognized by the program that has taken the PSAT/NMSQT, met the index score, 5 and earned a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher.

PATRIOT PRESS TRIBES’ DAY 2016 Tribes’ Day is a time set aside for all middle school students and faculty to focus on building relationships with one another, their tribes, and growing in their relationship with God in a Christian environment.

This year’s focus was encouragement.

In Hebrews 10:24, it states that we are to “spur one another on in love.” In all activities, from Baby Food Roulette to Pie Face Showdown and Inner-Tube Amoeba Race to 9-Square-In-the-Air, students lifted up and encouraged one another to step out of their comfort zones, in competitions, and during team-building activities.

Students and faculty alike are looking forward to God’s continued presence throughout the year and the great foundation laid at this year’s retreat.

PUNCTUATION DAY Since 2004, students across the nation have been celebrating National Punctuation Day each year on September 24th. Frustrated by the large number of mistakes he found in the newspaper, Jeff Rubin, former reporter and newsletter publisher, started the holiday in honor of the frequently overlooked, often times misused, underappreciated, and generally misunderstoond, punctuation marks. Mrs. Pebsworth’s eighth grade English classes joined in the celebration of the comma, quotation marks, periods, semi-colons, and the mysterious ellipsis - recognizing the importance of proper punctuation in fun and interactive ways.

NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY PROGRAM CRITERIA The National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) is an organization to honor eighth grade students who have accomplished high academic standards and served in their school and community.

Only eighth grade students are eligible to apply for NJHS. Qualifications are as follows: • Students who have a cumulative 3.5 GPA on January 15th of their eighth grade year and no level 3 or 4 referrals throughout their enrollment in Middle School are eligible to apply.

• Qualifying students will be officially notified of NJHS eligibility in January.

• Upon receipt of eligibility notice, students submit their completed application no later than February 15th.

• In addition to the application, ten service points are required. One hour of service is worth one point. Service may be performed at school, church, or in the community. Service forms are in the Middle School office.

• Students are notified of acceptance or denial in March.

• The National Junior Honor Society Induction Ceremony is in April.

Please contact Mrs. Patsy Phillips, NJHS Sponsor, with any questions. We look forward to honoring our eighth grade students this spring.

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MIDDLE SCHOOL ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS In Mrs. Gastineau’s western hemisphere class, students were transported back to 2000 BC to Ancient Mesopotamia. As part of the unit studies, students learned that Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians built massive temple structures, called ziggurats, atop platforms that were raised and stepped. Students then worked in teams designing, constructing, and embellishing their own ziggurat models.

MIDDLE SCHOOL ROBOTICS Get ready. Get set. Roar! Or you could bark, quack, or squeak.

Beginning in early fall, the Middle School Robotics teams were challenged to become “Animal Allies” as part of the FIRST LEGO League Challenge. The robotic league challenges students from over 80 countries to think like scientists and engineers.

During the LEGO Challenge, the robotic teams chose a real-world problem facing the animal kingdom, completed substantial research on their chosen project, and designed and built a solution. The Brickowski Team developed a monkey habitat simulating a real jungle, while the Lego Squad devised a plastic shark tag utilized for tracking shark migration. Additionally, as part of the competition, the teams were required to build, test, and program an autonomous robot using LEGO MINDSTORMS® technology to solve a set of missions in the Robot Game.

At the Robotics Qualifier in November, both teams faced intense competition against schools from across the state as they battled for a chance to compete at the Regional Competition.

Congratulations to the Lego Squad team, who placed 5th at the Qualifier – awarding them a bid to Regionals! Throughout their experience, both teams celebrated new discoveries and teamwork.

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PATRIOT PRESS

PACK & PASS AFTER PACK: PATRIOT AFTER CARE KIDS This year our after school program for elementary students has been redesigned and renamed the Patriot After Care Kids (PACK). Mrs. Leann Cherry is the PACK director who is delighted to plan fun, hands-on activities for our PACK group.

The new PACK program includes a snack, homework time if needed, physical activity, and enrichment and free time activities. Free-time varies from puppets, blocks, and train tables to board games, Legos, and coloring. A few of the enrichment activities include art, cooking, painting, nature walks, and more. Everything is FUN, educational, and hands-on.

PACK hours are from 3:00p.m. – 5:30p.m. Students spend the first hour having a snack and either completing homework or enjoying activities. Then an hour of physical activity begins on the playground or in the gym. Students return to the PACK room by about 5:00p.m. for more fun and parent pick up.

Students can attend on a “per day” basis or as a regular PACK attendee. Sign up information is available on the Parent Portal. We hope you’ll “PACK” some after-school fun into your student’s day soon!

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2016

SCHOOL PROGRAMS PASS: PATRIOT AFTER SCHOOL STUDIO This year a new program for middle school students called Patriot After School Studios (PASS) has begun.

PASS offers after school enrichment options and all classes are called Studios. Mrs. Leann Cherry is the PASS director who is passionate about finding new and engaging Studio opportunities for our PASS group.

A few of the second quarter Studios include Theatre/ One Act, Photography, Martial Arts, Vocal Performance, Debate, Guitar, Scale Model Building, and more. Every Studio is FUN, educational, and hands-on.

Students can attend on a “per studio” basis or as a daily PASS attendee. Studio time is from 4:00p.m. – 5:00p.m. If students wish to stay after school until the Studios begin, an additional weekly fee of only $7 provides a snack, activities, homework and/or free time.

Third quarter studios will begin on January 9th, 2017.

Sign up information is available on the Parent Portal and each quarter in the Weekly Happenings. We hope you’ll try a “PASS” to after-school fun soon!

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PATRIOT PRESS

WE ARE THIRD This year, the elementary school has adopted “We Will be Third” as their theme, which means students and staff are encouraged to place God first, others second, and themselves third. To help students apply the theme, each class devised their own “We Wills” together and posted them inside the classroom for reference throughout the year. “We Wills” are unique lists of classroom expectations and plans for how students will treat each other.

As part of the “We Will Be Third“ program, elementary students and their families completed a blanket-making community service project together.

Families donated and cut fleece that was then tied by students to make blankets for children in need at Emergency Infant Services in Tulsa.

TRANSPORTATION DAY PARADE Transportation Day is a favorite among both PreK and Kindergarten classes.

Students spend time learning about the many individuals involved in our community’s safety, health, and well being. Students studied the importance of police, fire, government, construction, and volunteering. They also learned about vehicles needed in a community, such as police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, and sanitation trucks. Students also discussed many other types of transportation including cars, motorcycles, military vehicles, recreational vehicles, helicopters, hot air balloons, airplanes, space shuttles, and more.

A highlight was when parents and community helpers brought various types of emergency, military, and sanitation vehicles to school. Our young scholars enjoyed the hands-on approach to learning about the gadgets, sirens, and controls unique to each vehicle. The day culminated with a Transportation Day Parade around school where PreK and Kindergarten students not only dressed as their favorite community helpers, but showcased their own hand-made transportation models.

ELEMENTARY DISCOVERY Mrs. Allison is leading her Discovery class with a cutting-edge approach to STEM. The latest innovation to STEM programs incorporates Art and Design, thus converting STEM to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics). Some experts believe that Art and Design, coupled with STEM, are poised to transform our economy, just as science and technology did in the last century.

This year, classes spent time learning about the first three days of creation and incorporating STEAM into both discussion and activities. Students used a new ExplOratorium iPad app called “Color Uncovered” to explore the way our brains and eyes see color and how electronic devices create color. Currently the class is studying the structure of land, biomes, and the layers found within our oceans - implementing STEAM to make graphic representations of the various layers both above and below the earth’s surface.

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ELEMENTARYSCHOOL ELEMENTARY WALK-A-THON

3RD GRADE AT GILCREASE Earlier this fall, all three of the third grade classes took a field trip to Gilcrease Museum for the Enduring Spirit Native American Artistic Traditions exhibit and the Kravis Discovery Center Treasure Hunt.

The Enduring Spirit exhibit tour highlights some of Gilcrease’s vast collection of Native American art and artifacts. As the students made their way through the Enduring Spirit exhibit, a dedicated museum docent focused on how early settlers and Native Americans lived in the Plains, Southwest, Northwest Coast, and Artic regions of North America, through colorful storytelling, intriguing descriptions of the artwork throughout the galleries, and touch-objects and artifacts.

In the Kravis Discovery Center, abundant opportunities for exploration of thousands of objects relating to the early history of the Americas – from spear points dating 12,000 years ago to 20th century Plains Indian beadwork, surrounded the students. To help them learn more about the artifacts housed at the museum, the students broke into teams, working together on a technological and research treasure hunt for specific items from the anthropology collection.

After their museum tour, the 3rd graders headed down to the Gilcrease gardens, featuring Pre-Columbia, Pioneer, Colonial, Victorian, and Rock themes, for lunch and an afternoon full of outdoor exploration and activities.

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PATRIOT PRESS

WELCOME NEW MCA MAGHIN ABERNATHY POSITION: ADVANCEMENT

COORDINATOR EDUCATION: SW OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY

Mrs. Abernathy, and her husband, Bobby have two children, Breck (age 5) and Claire (age 2). She loves playing outside with the kids, traveling, eating Mexican food and watching Fixer Upper! The Abernathy family attends Jenks First Baptist Church.

JENNIFER ALLWEIN POSITION: 2ND GRADE TEACHER EDUCATION: NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY

Ms. Allwein, 1996 MCA Alumna has two boys, Connor (age 14) and Dillon (age 9). She taught at both Tulsa Public Schools and the Sapulpa district before coming back to Metro. Ms. Allwein loves to read or watch a good mystery, she also enjoys running, traveling, and eating pizza.

MELISSA AMBRISTER POSITION: STAFF ACCOUNTANT EDUCATION: OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY

Mrs. Ambrister and her husband, Scott, have a son, Barrett (age 11) and a daughter, Emery (age 5). She loves spending time with her family. One of their favorite hobbies is snow skiing whenever they can! The Ambrister family attends Redeemer Covenant Church.

LEANN CHERRY

POSITION: PATRIOT PROGRAM COORDINATOR EDUCATION: CENTRAL BIBLE COLLEGE

Mrs. Cherry, and her husband Travis, have two children, Kaden (age 11) and Kilea (age 7). The Cherry family moved to Tulsa last January to work for Life Church, Jenks Campus. Mrs. Cherry has lived in nine states, and she and her family love to travel and explore new places, restaurants, and activities. Mrs. Cherry LOVES ice cream, Starbucks, and especially any coffee/espresso flavored dessserts!

EVAN DRAKE

POSITION: MS SOCIAL STUDIES COACHES: BASKETBALL AND BASEBALL EDUCATION: SOUTHWESTERN CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY/ UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA Coach Drake played basketball for SCU before transferring to OU. He likes to play basketball, flag football - really any sport, water skiing, and spending time with his fiance, Danielle, and his family. Next summer, he and Danielle will be married. Coach Drake attends Spirit Life Church.

DIANNE HEAD

POSITION: HS ENGLISH II/ 7TH GRADE LITERATURE EDUCATION: NORTHEASTERN STATE UNIVERSITY Mrs. Head and her husband David, have been married twenty-nine years, have three children, and two grandchildren. She has taught for thirty-two years as both an English teacher and a Library Media Specialist.

Her husband, David, is a full time pastor and works as a Metro Security officer. Mrs. Head loves St. Louis Cardinals baseball, reading, shopping, and being a grandma!

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2016

A STAFF AND FACULTY ABIGAIL HOBBS

VICKIE JOHNSON

A native of Fort Smith, Arkansas, Ms. Hobbs moved to Tulsa at the beginning of the school year. She has an eclectic taste in music, loves coffee, and enjoys spending time in the great outdoors.

Mrs. Johnson is married to John, and they have two children, Stephen and Sharla, three grandchildren, a standard poodle, Amber, and a polar bear white labrador retriever, Hank. The Johnson family enjoys sports, traveling in the RV, camping in serene locations, and campfires. Mrs. Johnson’s family currently attends Rhema Bible Church.

KYNDAL HOSTETLER

MIKE JONES

POSITION: MS VOCAL MUSIC, HS CONCERT CHOIR AND SHOW CHOIR EDUCATION: UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS - FORT SMITH

POSITION: PRE-K TEACHER EDUCATION: SOUTHERN NAZARENE UNIVERSITY

Mrs. Hostetler is a recent graduate of Southern Nazerene University and is newly married. Her husband, Grayson, is a Critical Care RN. The Hostetler family loves to hike, read books, and all around adventuring!

SUMMER JENKINS POSITION: STUDENT ACTIVITIES COORDINATOR EDUCATION: CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY

Mrs. Jenkins and her husband, Andrew, have three children, Jack (9th grade), Sophie (8th grade), and Gigi (2nd grade). Mrs. Jenkins spends all of her time at her kids’ events - baseball with Jack and theatre with the girls. She would not have it any other way! The Jenkins family are members of First Presbyterian Church.

POSITION: SECONDARY ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL EDUCATION: UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA /EAST CENTRAL UNIVERSITY

POSITION: HS SOCIAL STUDIES COACHES: NEW HEAD WRESTLING COACH EDUCATION: OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY Coach Jones and his wife, Tricia, have been married for 25 years and have two daughters and one granddaughter.

He enjoys bicycle riding, playing guitar, and traveling. He attends Aspen Park Baptist Church in Broken Arrow where he sings in the choir and plays guitar. Last year, he was inducted into the Oklahoma Wrestling Hall of Fame!

DALE LEMONS

POSITION: MS COUNSELOR EDUCATION: ORAL ROBERTS UNIVERSITY AND SOUTHEASTERN OKLAHOMA STATE Mr. Lemons has been blessed with his wife Mrs. Lemons. They have been married for thirty-seven years and have a super daughter, son-in-law, and grandchild! Mr. Lemons has been involved in ministry and/or counseling for the past 39 years. He is also an avid weight lifter and loves to watch college and pro football.

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PATRIOT PRESS

WELCOME NEW MCA HOLLIE MAYFIELD

LAURA PEEK

POSITION: PRE-K ASSISTANT EDUCATION: UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA

POSITION: PRE-K TEACHER EDUCATION: OUACHITA BAPTIST UNIVERSITY

Mrs. Mayfield has been married to her husband, Chuck, for nineteen years and they have two children Jack (10th grade) and Claire (7th grade) here at Metro Christian Academy. The Mayfield family attends Life.Church.

Mrs. Peek and her husband, Jim, have two college-age daughters. She loves all things British! Mrs. Peek enjoys riding on the back of their motorcycle, traveling, reading, and watching movies. The Peek family attends the Church at South Tulsa.

MISSY MANKIN

EMILY POINTS

POSITION: PRE-K TEACHER EDUCATION: OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY

POSITION: AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE COACHES: CROSS COUNTRY & TENNIS EDUCATION: UNIVERSITY OF TULSA

Mrs. Mankin and her husband Dan, have two sweet golden retrievers, Sage and Remi, and are expecting their first baby in May. She spent her first five years teaching Kindergarten, mainly in Edmond Public Schools, before moving to Tulsa in June. Mrs. Mankin eats pizza at least twice a week, has six siblings, loves Jimmy Fallon, and rarely wears matching socks.

Miss Points, a 2012 MCA Alumna, graduated from TU Spring 2016. She has a mini golden retriever named Dakota who loves to ride in the car and eat socks. While at TU, she studied abroad in Scotland and would wear plaid all the time if it was socially acceptable. Miss Points enjoys traveling, playing tennis, and cheering for the OKC Thunder and Chicago Blackhawks.

JAMIE MORGAN

POSITION: SECONDARY ENGLISH EDUCATION: UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS Mrs. Morgan and her husband have two sons, Jonathan and Jason. The Morgans enjoy hiking, traveling, riding their bikes, and sitting around the outdoor fire watching football games on television. Mrs. Morgan attends and serves at Life.Church Midtown and when traveling, enjoys visiting other churches.

WES PRINGLE

POSITION: MS PHYSICAL SCIENCE EDUCATION: ABILENE CHRISTIAN/ WESTERN STATE COLORADO/ NEW MEXICO TECH Mr. Pringle and his wife Kari,have been married for 35 years, have a daughter, a son, and two grandchildren. This is his 28th year teaching science and he was a track pole vault coach for 25 years. Mr. Pringle grew up in Gunnison, Colorado, where he helped his family run their family dude ranch. Mr. Pringle’s hobbies are scale models, hiking, and playing the bagpipes.

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2016

A STAFF AND FACULTY NATHAN ROBERTS

POSITION: ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF SPIRITUAL LIFE, MS PRAISE & WORSHIP AND HS MISSIONS & EVANGELISM EDUCATION: ORAL ROBERTS UNIVERSITY COACHES: ULTIMATE FRISBEE Mr. Roberts has spent the last six summers working on staff at Shepherd’s Fold Ranch in a variety of roles; most recently as Director of the Furnace Discipleship Training Program.

Nathan has been voted by himself as the “Best Uncle Ever” to his nieces and nephews!

GEORGE TOUMAYAN POSITION: MS AND HS BAND, AND HS MUSIC THEORY EDUCATION: TULSA UNIVERSITY/ UNIVERSITY OF CENTRAL OKLAHOMA

In addition to teaching at Metro, Mr. Toumayan teaches as an adjunct professor at TU, teaches drum lessons at his wife Cortney’s music studio, and performs regularly around the region, playing percussion and drum set. The Toumayan’s attend Eastland Baptist Church.

ETHAN ROE

DARLENE SYUMA

Mr. Roe, an MCA Alum, and his wife, Kelsey, live in beautiful Bixby. Although Kelsey graduated from OSU - they are a house united! Upon graduating from OU, Mr. Roe moved back to Tulsa managing all of the Josh’s Sno Shacks until accepting a teaching position earlier this spring at MCA.

Mrs. Syuma first moved to Tulsa twenty years ago, was married, and started a family. She is originally from Iowa, but considers both Oklahoma and Iowa her home. Her hobbies include playing the piano, enjoying outdoors activities, and most of all, spending time with her three beautiful children, Lela (age 17), Peter (age 15), and Daniel (age 14).

POSITION: HS WORLDVIEW AND PERSONAL FINANCE COACHES: FOOTBALL, BASKETBALL, AND TRACK EDUCATION: UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA

POSITION: INFORMATION SYSTEMS SPECIALIST EDUCATION: SOUTHERN NAZARENE UNIVERSITY/UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA

TEGAN SEVIER

POSITION: EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE HEADMASTER EDUCATION: VICTORY BIBLE COLLEGE AND ORAL ROBERTS UNIVERSITY Tegan Sevier is a current MBA student at ORU. She enjoys coffee, spending time with family and friends, traveling, and creating anything artistic. Tegan is highly involved at her church, Victory Christian Center.

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PATRIOT PRESS

BOYS OF FALL The Metro Christian Academy 48-man Varsity roster might be small in number, but they are mighty on the field. The team ended the season with a nine and two record. Players worked together and did not let numerous injuries get in the way of a winning season. Perhaps even more impressive than the wins and accolades was the way the seniors chose to lead the underclassmen on the team. They proved to be leaders both on and off the field – making quite an impression on the team. The fourteen seniors will certainly be missed next season; they leave the high school field knowing they have made a difference in the lives of others.

Some Season Highlights Include: Dylan Bierman threw 214 completed passes for 3,022 yards Robbie Johnson rushed for 749 yards on 111 attempts Dalton Smallwood had 61 receptions for 747 yards and had 9 interceptions Coleman Davis was the tackle leader with 76 tackles Landon Tedford led the team with 5 sacks Team Awards: Dalton Smallwood was named Defensive Back of the Year Jack Roe was Injured Athlete of the Year Gray Strickland received the Special Team Award

BUMP, SET, SPIKE The volleyball program continues to grow, both in size and number of wins! Under the direction of Head Coach Beth Roe and her coaching staff including Christina Bridgeford, Roger Roth, and Curtis Cook - each team, seventh grade through Varsity, boasted a winning season – dominating rivals including Lincoln Christian, Cascia Hall, and Bishop Kelley.

The Lady Patriots were host to the OSSAA Regional Tournament again this year, placed third with a 6-2 record at the Orlando KSA Volleyball Classic, were a Pinnacle Conference Winner, and concluded their season as the State Runner-Up! Senior Riley Roth was named to the All-State Tournament Team and selected as an OCA All-State Player and Pinnacle Conference Player of the Year. Jules Bushong, Junior, was named to the All-State Tournament Team and is a Pinnacle Conference All-Conference Player. Kyra Denmark, Junior, was named Pinnacle Conference Honorable Mention. Congratulations Lady Patriots!

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ATHLETICS TWELVE THOUSAND MILES

2016

COACH’S CORNER

Athletics is proud to have the following coaches to serve this year: Jared McCoy, Adam Taylor, Jeff Comfort, Joe Blankenship, Matt Clyburn, Daniel Miller, Jonathan Zytkoskee, Ethan Roe, Matthew Lee (Football Coaches), Mark Bearden (Strength and Agility Coach), Matt Pile, Becky Lowe, Scott Horton, Emily Points (Cross Country Coaches), Kristy Covey and Sara Toews (Cheer Coaches), Paige Bennett (Pom Coaches), Beth Roe, Christina Bridgeford, Roger Roth, and Curtis Cook (Volleyball Coaches).

Beginning in July with hot, humid midday runs, the cross country team endeavored to make this another winning season. With “we give God all the glory” as their mantra, the fifty-three-member team logged over 12,000 miles, had 125 Top 20 Finishers, and crushed 147 Personal Records - proving that dedicated, intense training serves this team well!

The Middle School and Junior Varsity seasons concluded at Mohawk Park with JV boys placing ninth, middle school boys placing seventh, and middle school girls placing second at the meet.

The Varsity team went on to great success at the OSSAA 4A Regional Meet where both the Boys and the Girls placed first. With great momentum from Regionals, the Boys and Girls Varsity Teams both finished their seasons, placing second place at the OSSAA 4A State Championship.

PATRIOT ATHLETES SIGN LETTERS OF INTENT Metro Christian Academy is pleased to announce five student athletes who signed letters of intent to continue playing their respective sports collegiately. Students, family, and faculty filled the large gym to witness and congratulate Brody Gibson, Sierra Munoz, Foster Roy, Blake Shannon, and Kara Speer on their signings.

Brody signed with Oral Roberts University to play baseball, Sierra signed with the University of Central Oklahoma for rowing, Foster signed with the University of Richmond to play baseball, Blake signed with Johnson County Community College to play baseball, and Kara signed with the University of the Incarnate Word to play basketball.

Congratulations, student athletes!

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PATRIOT PRESS

SPEECH AND DEBATE Congratulations to the 2016 Speech and Debate Team. At the Booker T. Washington Debate tournament, they placed first overall as a team in the 5A Sweepstakes and third as a team in the Novice Sweepstakes. At the Bishop Kelley Debate Tournament, the team place third overall in the 5A Sweepstakes and at the Oolagah Debate Tournament, the team placed second overall in the 5A Sweepstakes.

BOOKER T WASHINGTON DEBATE 5A LINCOLN DOUGLAS DEBATE 5A ORIGINAL ORATORY 1st Place - Grace Heinecke 1st Place - Jonathan Fisher 3rd Place - Cristian Meyer NOVICE LINCOLN DOUGLAS DEBATE 5A DOMESTIC EXTEMPORANEOUS 1st Place - Evyn Fitzgerald SPEAKING NOVICE DOMESTIC EXTEMPORANEOUS 1st Place - Lauren Meyer SPEAKING 2nd Place - Cristian Meyer 2nd Place - Kathryn Heinecke 3rd Place - Grace Heinecke 3rd Place - Evyn Fitzgerald 5A FOREIGN EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEAKING NOVICE FOREIGN EXTEMPORANEOUS 1st Place - Will Shaw SPEAKING 2nd Place - Chase Austin 1st Place - Jerry Oquin 3rd Place - Carson Campbell 3rd Place - Valeria Aguirre-Gutierrez BISHOP KELLEY TOURNAMENT 5A LINCOLN DOUGLAS DEBATE 5A FOREIGN EXTEMPORANEOUS 1st Place - Lauren Meyer SPEAKING 2nd Place - Aiden Black 1st Place - Cristian Meyer 3rd Place - Cristian Meyer 2nd Place - Chase Austin 3rd Place - Colin Fergerson 5A DOMESTIC EXTEMPORANEOUS SPEAKING NOVICE LINCOLN DOUGLAS DEBATE 2nd Place - Lauren Meyer 1st Place - Cade Waits 5A ORIGINAL ORATORY 2nd Place - Cristian Meyer OOLAGAH TOURNAMENT 5A LINCOLN DOUGLAS DEBATE 5A FOREIGN EXTEMPORANEOUS 1st Place - Josh Gastineau SPEAKING 1st Place - Josh Gastineau 2nd Place - Caleb Freese 2nd Place - Amber Wilkin 3rd Place - Grace Heinecke NOVICE LINCOLN DOUGLAS DEBATE 5A DOMESTIC EXTEMPORANEOUS 1st Place - Valeria Aguirre-Gutierrez SPEAKING 1st Place - Grace Heinecke NOVICE FOREIGN EXTEMPORANEOUS 2nd Place - Lauren Meyer SPEAKING 3rd Place - Aiden Black 1st Place - Alexandria Hendryx 3rd Place - Silvan Tubeileh 5A ORIGINAL ORATORY 2nd Place - Aiden Black

SUMMER AT THE SCAD Carolyn Argo headed south this summer to spend some time studying at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD). Carolyn participated in the pre-college summer program where she lived on campus and took classes in Digital Media to gain hands-on experience in computer animation and storytelling through 2-D animation. During her stay, Carolyn was able to explore a variety of digital and analog animation techniques while completing short films. At the end of her summer program, she was able to showcase her projects in the closing exhibition.

SCHOLASTIC ART

Since 1923, the Scholastic Art Awards have recognized the vision, ingenuity, and talent of our nation’s youth providing opportunities for creative teens to be celebrated. Here is a sampling of the artwork MCA students submitted to the Scholastic Art Competition.

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FINE ARTS

2016

TEMPERS FLARE IN A JURY ROOM Metro Christian Academy performed Twelve Angry Jurors, written by Sherman Sergel, this year for the One Act Competition. The play takes place in a jury room on a hot summer day. After a long trial, the jury must decide whether a 19-year-old man is guilty of murdering his father. The jury votes 11-1 that the man is guilty of the crime, but laws in the United States require a unanimous vote by all twelve jurors in order to pass judgment. Tempers flare as the eleven jurors try their best to convince the one dissenter to come around to their side.

However, as the evidence is re-examined, new uncertainties come to light, forcing everyone to truly question if there is, in fact, some measure of “reasonable doubt”.

Twelve Angry Jurors is a heightened courtroom thriller that put the audience at the edge of their seats while powerfully exploring what it means to live in a democracy.

This year’s performance won third place at Regionals and was Runner Up at the 5A OSSAA One Act State Competition.

Metro Christian Academy Regional All Stars are Matt Burchard, Grace Merrill, Cristian Meyer, and Emily Thresher.

All State actors are Ben Burchard and Grace Merrill.

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PATRIOT PRESS

COMMUNITY METRO BASH Beginning as a grass-roots carnival, and accompanying Elementary Night at the football game, Parent Teacher Fellowship hosted the 8th Annual Metro Bash Night at Metro Christian Academy on September 9th. The Bash has exploded into one of the school’s largest community events each year. Drawing hundreds of students, faculty, and parents together to enjoy a variety of fair and food truck delights, massive inflatables, a mechanical bull, face painting, and 9-Square-in-the-Air - all make the Bash a beloved event full of fun and fellowship. Thank you to all of the volunteers who worked tirelessly ensuring the successful legacy of the Metro Bash again this year!

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2016

ADVANCEMENT DRIVE FOR EDUCATION

MCA FOUNDATION GIFT This year, the Metro Christian Academy Foundation, in conjunction with many generous donors, was able to give over $100,000 to Metro Christian Academy for programs, facility maintenance, tuition assistance, and institutional upgrades.

With this year’s donation from the Foundation, a total of $725,000 will have been gifted back to the school since the Foundation’s inception. These contributions have allowed Metro to further its mission and maintain an affordable tuition rate for families.

“This is one of the best parts about being on the Foundation Board – presenting a check,” said Stan McCabe, MCA Foundation President. “The Board works so hard to fundraise and manage investments wisely, so we can do this for the students and school. Our goal is to be able to increase our disbursement back to the school each year.”

According to Roger Gerstenberger, Metro Headmaster, this year’s gift from the Foundation was used for: • A New Phone System • Annual Utility/Maintenance Costs for the MAC • Test Kits for the Diagnostic Instruction Center • 50 DIC Students Received Assistance With Instructional Fees • Tuition Assistance – Four Families Received Approximately $2,400 in Tuition Assistance • Professional Development – Elementary, Middle and High School Teachers in STEM Fields Established in 2005, the mission of the MCA Foundation is to provide resources furthering the vision of Metro Christian Academy through fundraising, community relations, and sound advisement. Opportunities funded through the Foundation disbursement are meant to enrich the lives of Metro students and families academically, physically, and spiritually.

THANK YOU!

2016 MCA GOLF CLASSIC Thank you to all who helped make the 2016 MCA Golf Classic a success! Over 100 hundred golfers came out to Drive for Education. The comradery, friendly competition, and perfect weather, made a great day even better. Thank you to the many teams, sponsors, and individuals who supported the Tournament and raised over $15,000 for Metro Christian Academy.

The Commercial Title & Escrow Team (Ted Jacobs, Matt Reese, Bob Pielsticker, and Robert Bresnahan), won first place in the first flight, while second place went to the Chick-fil-A Team (Jeremy Telford, David Chen, Andrew Nelson and David Nelson). JJ Cavender and Jay Condry were Closest to the Pin, with the Longest Drive going to Ted Jacobs, and Carter Lance was Closest to the Cow, winning Chickfil-A for a year for his entire team.

First place winner in the second flight was the Shaw Homes Team (Glenn Shaw, Wes Spencer, Adam Wing, and Tommy Campbell), while second place went to the Miller Truck Lines Team (Bobby Miller, Bob Lamoreaux, Mark Neeley, and Kreg Callery).

Closest to the Pin went to Paul Johnson and Brad Enzbrenner, Longest Drive went to Todd Stewart and Justin Barkley was Closest to the Cow and won Chick-fil-A for a year for his entire team.

JORDAN MILLER (2011) JOINS MISSIONS MOBILIZER FELLOWSHIP CHURCH IN COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS IN 2017

CONGRATULATIONS! SCOTT PLASTER (2007) GRADUATED OU MED, BEGAN HIS ORTHOPED RESIDENCY AT THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO AND MARRIED KATY SLAGLE ON AUGUST 13, 2016

METRO TRUE BLUE SPONSORS

HOLE SPONSORS

Arvest Bank CCK Strategies Central States Orthopedics GH2 Architects, LLC Greene Team Agency

HUB International Jaguar Land Rover Tulsa Quik Trip Saint Francis Shaw Homes

JACK (2008) AND RAEGAN JONES PILE (2009 WELCOMED SON, TRISTEN ON FEBRUARY 26, 201

PATRIOT PRESS

ALUMNI

Kathy Sue Photography

CONGRATULATIONS! ARIEL HELMS (2012) MARRIED JEREMY THAMES ON OCTOBER 22, 2016.

ALUMNI HOMECOMING TAILGATE On September 30th the Alumni Association hosted a Homecoming Tailgate. The faculty and staff and a host of other alums came together in the end zone to reconnect, enjoy family activities, music, prizes, great food, and a winning football game!

CONGRATULATIONS! MICHAEL JUNK (2003) TULSA’S NEW DEPUTY MAYOR

LLOYD LEGAL PLLC Grant T. Lloyd (2002) is pleased to announce the formation of Lloyd Legal PLLC. Mr. Lloyd concentrates his practice in civil litigation, real estate, estates and trusts, and family law. He received his Juris Doctorate in 2007 from the University of Tulsa College of Law. A certified mediator, Mr. Lloyd is a member of both the Oklahoma and Arkansas Bars, and admitted to practice in the United States District Court for all Oklahoma federal districts, as well as the 10th Circuit. Lloyd Legal is located in downtown Tulsa on Main Street and in Tahlequah on Muskogee Avenue. For more information or to contact Mr. Lloyd please call (918) 809-5855, email him at grant@lloyd.legal, or visit www.lloydlegal.com.

Jason Kendrick Vaughan (1991), better known as Chef J.V., catered the tailgate event. Guests were served specialties including meatball sliders and macaroni and cheese. Chef J.V. and his business partner, Brad White, co-own J. Bradley’s, a Brookside restaurant located at 3308 S. Peoria Ave. All Metro Christian Academy alums are invited to join the new MCA Alumni Association. Two membership options include either a $20 Annual Membership or a $150 (one time fee) Founding Membership. Contact Bonnie Polak at bpolak@metroca.com.

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2016

UPCOMING EVENTS

SHARE METRO INVITE YOUR FRIENDS TO

METRO CHRISTIAN OPEN HOUSES JANUARY 26TH AT 6:00 PM FEBRUARY 28TH AT 9:00 AM

Our new and improved Camp Patriot Summer Program is in two locations this summer - both on campus and at Camp Loughridge.

Coming to Metro Christian Academy Spring 2017, is “The Music Man”. The story of a man, his 76 trombones, and the wonderful, wonderful tune he played on every heart in town.

Camp dates on campus are May 30th through August 4th. More details will be released in mid-January.

All students who are in sixth grade or above are invited to audition.

Camp Patriot at Camp Loughridge registration is now open on the Camp Loughridge website. Camp dates are June 26th-30th and July 10th-July 14th.

January 5 from 3:00p.m. to 6:30p.m.

January 6 from 3:00p.m. to 6:30p.m.

January 7 from 9:00a.m. to 1:00p.m.

. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SECONDARY

KINDERGARTEN KINDERGARTEN

2016 PARENT PREVIEW

2016 PARENT PREVIEW

JANUARY 9 AT 6:30 PM

JANUARY 11 AT 8:15 AM

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All parents interested in learning more about middle school and high school are invited! You’ll have a chance to learn more about “a day in the life” of a secondary student.

Academics at each level will be discussed, as well as athletics, fine arts, and leadership. You’ll have a chance to talk with faculty, staff, activity sponsors, and current parents.

Auditions are on:

Save The Date

2017 DINNER & AUCTION 34TH ANNUAL

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All parents interested in learning more about our kindergarten program are invited! You’ll have a chance to visit the classrooms, meet with all of the kindergarten teachers in order to learn more about “a day in the life” of a kindergartener.

Mr Buffington, Mrs. Waits, and current kindergarten parents will be available to answer any questions.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!

SECOND SEMESTER DATES JANUARY 5 Second Semester Begins JANUARY 16 Martin Luther King Holiday FEBRUARY 17 Professional Development Day No School FEBRUARY 20 President’s Day Holiday MARCH 10 End of 3rd Quarter MARCH 13 - 17 Spring Break APRIL 7 Elementary P/T Conferences No School Elementary APRIL 14 Good Friday - No School APRIL 17 Professional Development Day No School

Thursday, April 6th from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00p.m. at the Mayo Hotel.

MAY 21 Baccalaureate

The next Auction Committee meeting is Tuesday, January 10th at 8:15 a.m. in the Athletic Conference Room.

MAY 25 Class of 2017 Graduation

You’re welcome to join in the fun!

MAY 25 End of 4th Quarter Last Day of School

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Thank You For Being

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2016 CAMPAIGN PROJECTS

TRANSPORTATION

CAMPUS SIGNAGE

THE ULTIMATE PATRIOT MOVERS

EXTERNAL SIGNAGE AND TELEVISIONS

2016 GIVING SUMMARY TO DATE

PASSENGER VANS

EASIER NAVIGATION

TCEC BOARD OF TRUSTEES - 100%

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LIBRARY UPGRADES

MOVEABLE, MODERN SHELVING AND FURNITURE Reach: All Metro Students & Families

CAFETERIA UPDATE

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METRO CHRISTIAN FAMILIES - 67% STAFF AND FACULTY - 99%

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