Wingspan | Summer 2016

WINGSPAN

M O U N T PA R A N C H R I S T I A N S C H O O L

SUMMER 2016 / VOLUME X / ISSUE 2

Misson-Driven in

CHRISTIAN LIFE p. 4

A BIANNUAL PUBLICATION FOR STUDENTS, PARENTS, ALUMNI, AND FRIENDS

40 YEARS of MPCS p. 6

Science and God p. 22

WINGSPAN | Summer 2016

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WINGSPAN

Summer 2016, Volume X, Issue 2

Publisher Dr. David Tilley

Editor David Lowery

Assistant Editors Pam Copeland Mickie Roberts

Graphic Designer Tiffany Westbrook

Contributors Caroline Bradford ‘03 Cary Brague John Braswell Pam Copeland Paula Deiters Julie Duncan Aaron Farrant Cindy Gibbs Dana Gray Natalie Hammonds ‘17 Dr. Trici Holmes Connie Jennings David Lowery Madeline Mulkey ‘12 Justin Nelson Chuck Paas Allison Pugmire Mickie Roberts Dr. Bonnie Stephens Chris Tanton Dr. David Tilley Tiffany Westbrook Christine Woods

From the Headmaster In a world that is increasingly dysfunctional – culturally and socially – please know that Mount Paran Christian School stands firm in its 40-year long commitment to a Christ-centered mission. Although the pressures have never been greater, rest assured that every member of the MPCS staff, as ministers of Christ, while attempting to speak directly and boldly to the threatening trends of today’s society, talks often about our continued covenantal commitment to embrace Jesus and the Truth of His Word.

Photographers Jamie Bogner Chancy Cannon Jonah Fisher Richard Searle / Yearbook Staff Lisa Shoch Sarah Stephens TCPics Tiffany Westbrook

WINGSPAN

is published biannually for the families and friends of Mount Paran Christian School © Mount Paran Christian School 1275 Stanley Road, Kennesaw, Georgia 30152 770-578-0182, www.mtparanschool.com

MPCS Mission Statement

Providing academic excellence in a Christ-centered environment, Mount Paran Christian School unites with home and church to prepare servant-leaders to honor God, love others, and walk in Truth.

MPCS Vision Statement

Mount Paran Christian School will become the exemplary Christian school in the Atlanta area as defined by the development of Christ-centered servant-leaders and quality academic preparation.

ON THE COVERS: Front: Taylor Bonner (grade 5) and Charlotte Smith (grade 6) plant gardens on Service Day at the Marietta Women’s Extension.

Back: PK4 students CJ Cetti, Carson Lim, and William Lock.

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While public schools and many private schools feel forced for a myriad of reasons to compromise on long-standing principles, MPCS understands the Truth to still be the Truth. The pressures on some to conform come from a variety of sources: • a slow — or not so slow — disintegration of faith in community life; • cultural paradigm shifts that cause many to bend on Truth to accommodate the “new normal;” • a social media-crazed culture using what was intended to enhance people-connections to actually disconnect us and, in its place, create new forums for gossip and a simple click away from evil; • a shirking by many parents in our society to provide a faith community for their families in which adults and children can be taught the Truth and nurtured in it; and • a world too often characterized and defined by the hostility imposed on us by external and internal forces.

Thanks, MPCS families, for standing with us in combating these negatives on the Christian culture!

You deserve to know that: • our Board of Trustees is dedicated to and regularly reaffirms our covenantal mission; • our leadership team meets in a summer retreat and identifies ways to combat the temptations for honest believers to yield to the pressures to compromise what is true, right, and holy; • our faculty and staff yearly sign a Statement of Faith as well as a Statement of Life and Conduct declaring our steadfast and enthusiastic allegiance to Christ and His Kingdom work; • the first thing that happens each semester is an all-staff worship service aimed at a collective recommitment to the principles of faith; • students will continue to study God’s Word, start each morning with devotions, attend chapels, engage in service experiences, participate in mission trips, and, more importantly, learn to defend their faith and integrate the Christian life in everything they seek to do as they give their heart, mind, and passions to their spiritual calling.

This Wingspan simply attempts to tell the story in various ways of our unapologetic desire to “keep the main thing the main thing.” May God sustain and bless us in these efforts. Your children — His children — need it and deserve it now more than ever.

30 Features Mission Driven in Christian Life Living Out our Calling

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40 Years of Mount Paran Christian School

CONTENTS 4 6

What’s New

10 12

Saying Farewell... and Welcome Home Women’s Retreat

6 Christian Life

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Athletics

Action in Truth Taking Servant-Leadership to the Next Level

13

Spiritual Emphasis

16 18 20

On a Mission We Can Relate Campus Discipleship

How to Win A Philosophy for Success

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MLB Draftee Taylor Trammell MPC Sports Recap

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On-Campus Staff Profile: Mrs. Claire Mozley

Academics Science and God Biblically Backing Scientific Theory

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Growth Mindset Reframing Hearts and Attitudes

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Political Rally at MPCS The Hogle Investment

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Heismans on Campus

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Mock Trial Eighth Grade Blessing Ceremony

25 26

Alumni

Arts Arts Unites with Church Arts Elevating Reflecting on Performance

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31 32

Haygood and Woods Servant-Leaders in Medical Entrepreneurship

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Class Notes Living Out the Mission

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Achievements Choosing Christian College College Matriculations and Awards

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Features

Third-graders Andrew Jones, Andrew Overton, and Andric Parent serving at Camp Gideon

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MISSION-DRIVEN IN

Christian Life

Written by Aaron Farrant, Director of Christian Life

At Mount Paran Christian School, the core of our mission is to develop servant-leaders who honor God, love others, and walk in Truth. Our desire to live out this mission is at our core. In the classrooms, on the fields, courts, and stages — it is who we are. You see the evidence of Christian life in everything we do, but we are also very intentional about joining with the church and our families to help our students become what God created them to be.

You see evidence of Christian Life in everything we do

Worship The MPCS Christian Life department focuses on four key areas: worship, discipleship, missions, and service. Time is set aside every week to focus on the most important thing — worship and pursuit of God. Weekly chapel services for every grade level are held in which the staff, kids, and local church leaders all play an integral part to honor God. Worship also goes beyond weekly chapel. Each school day begins with prayer and devotion from His Word. Worship happens by taking time in all subjects to connect God with the curriculum. We strive to live in constant awe of our Creator, and whether we are studying biology, asking for God’s wisdom in our group prayer requests, or singing in chapel — our worship establishes the foundation for everything we do.

Discipleship MPCS believes that relationships with God are rooted in knowing Him. As we desire to walk in Truth, every student at MPCS is learning about who He is through core Bible classes. This foundation allows them to read God’s Word and understand the biblical history in order to see God’s plan from Creation to the end times. Bible teachers are able to dig deeper with students so they can clearly articulate facts that show evidence of God’s Word in a secular world. In unison with this education, many come alongside the student body to help guide them as they grow through Bible studies, small groups, and accountability groups. Mentorship programs also involve high school students investing in lower school kids to show them what it looks like to be a teenager who is following God. It is amazing to see parents, teachers, and older students working together to help encourage students as they personally pursue God. Service In the Gospel of John 13:34, Jesus says that we are to love others as God loved us, and that this is how we are known to be followers of Jesus. MPCS is taking that mission to heart as we show love to each other and our community. The annual Service Day involves every staff member, student, and many parents spending a school day serving out in the community. This exposure to the needs around us impacts students just as much as those we serve. Showing God’s love not just in words and speech, but in action and in truth as in 1 John 3:18 has motivated us to serve our community more often. Several lower, middle, and high school groups are now serving our partner ministries on a weekly and monthly basis.

Missions Matthew 28:19 calls us to make disciples of all nations. Students serve on short-term mission trips at home and abroad to answer this call around the world.

Students are able to recognize God’s love for the world and that people elsewhere are pursuing God just as they are. They extend beyond their comfort zone in serving and sharing the gospel. Often, their walk is strengthened as much as those whom they have served.

MPCS strives to be a community that pursues hard after God, desires to know Him deeply, and lives as examples of His love. Beyond all the great things that happen on our campus academically, athletically, and in the arts — this is the core of who we are! W

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40 Features

Written by Mrs. Pam Copeland, Assistant to the Headmaster

Years

The year was 1976. It was the year of the U.S. bicentennial, polyester leisure suits, and the formation of the Apple Computer Company. Gasoline was of Mount Paran Christian School 59 cents per gallon and a Zenith 25” color TV was $599. Jimmy Connors and Chris Evert were U.S. tennis champs and Romanian Nadia Comanici earned the first “perfect 10’s” in the Olympics. Elton John, Chicago, and the Bee Gees had some of the number one hits in pop music. “Happy Days” was the most popular TV show, and “Rocky” was one of the big films of the year. Jimmy Carter was circa 1978 elected President, and Mount Paran Learning Center held its first class.

With a staff of only two, the MPLC began with a kindergarten program at the Mount Paran Central Church of God location in Atlanta, Georgia. The initial success of the program brought significant changes the next year by creating a combined first and second grade class, an after-school program, and the development and adoption of a new name, Mount Paran Christian School. Success continued in 1978 with the development of third and fourth grade programs. Between 1979 and 1982, one additional grade per year was added.

During the 1984-1985 school year, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) awarded the elementary and middle schools their full accreditation. Acquisition of a sixty-five acre site on Allgood Road in Marietta, Georgia in 1985 provided fulfillment of the vision for a total high school program. Existing facilities on the acquired property were renovated and enhanced by Mount Paran Church, who continued to share the facility with the school. With ninety-four students, the high school program began in 1986 with grades nine through eleven.

The following year, grade twelve was added, and Mount Paran Christian School received its full accreditation for grades kindergarten through twelve. Since then, the preschool has also become accredited.

In 1986 MPCS became a member of the Georgia High School Athletic Association and began participation in interscholastic varsity and junior varsity sports. Fine Arts courses were also added, including choral and instrumental programs, and drama and musical performances were produced each year.

In the year 2000, the school became an independent entity from the church and began the pursuit of property in Cobb County to build a school campus. Following a diligent search, the former vacation property of the late Stuart and Eulene Murray was offered for purchase to the school. Despite an extremely rainy year, construction began and was completed in a mere 13-month period. MPCS moved to its current location in September 2003 with the Mulkey building, the Sewell Cottage, Dozier Hall, and several fields in use.

Jimmy Carter was elected President, and Mount Paran Learning Center held its first class

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Features

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there are stories of hard times, and there are euphoric celebrations of student accomplishments In December of 2007, MPCS purchased the beautiful performing arts center adjacent to the school property. With its numerous amenities, the purchase was a welcome addition to the growing campus. In January, 2008, the building was named the Murray Arts Center at Mount Paran Christian School, in honor of the Stuart and Eulene Murray Family Foundation, who made a generous donation toward the purchase of the building for the school.

MPCS was blessed again in the 2015-16 school year to add a key component to the campus: an athletic stadium! With the lead donation from Charles and Cathy Sewell and several other generous donations, the Catherine Steele Sewell Stadium opened just in time for the 2015 football season. Also, as part of the stadium complex, the William A. Cooper Memorial Field was dedicated in his memory by his loving family. In addition, the Knox Athletic Performance Center was updated and upgraded to a level rarely available to high school athletes, being named for generous MPCS supporters, Jack and Barbara Knox.

Having spoken with several “long-timers” affiliated with the school, there are some stories of hard times, and there are the euphoric celebrations of student accomplishments. The school even played host to a sitting President of the United States, George H. W. Bush. There are also many funny stories, one of which occurred at the very first Homecoming game, which then was held during basketball seasons. In 1987, the Homecoming committee (led by Mr. David Tilley) thought it would be a great idea and fun experience to have the first Homecoming Queen enter the gym at halftime in a horse-drawn carriage. Unfortunately, nature called and the horse left more of a surprise than expected on the gym floor!

Though there are several who are now second-generation MPCS families, such as Gary and Shaunda (Smith) Brooks (both MPCS class of ’90) whose sons, Trevor (rising junior) and Kason (rising 7th) are MPCS lifers, there is only one employee who has been at MPCS since the beginning. Mrs. Jan Mote, now in the business office, has just about done it all— from driving a bus, to being the first cheer coach, to many years of teaching preschool. Regarding changes since the early days, she says the beautiful campus comes to mind first, along with sack lunches compared to the current buffet. The reason she has stayed is because the school has become a family to her and she believes in all that the school represents.

It’s true MPCS evolved from a small, “Mom and Pop” program operated as a church outreach, to a full-fledged accredited prep school, nationally respected for academics, athletics, and arts achievements. But, the recurring theme is that MPCS has always been a family. We are assured that, as long as Christ remains at the center of every plan on this campus, we will continue to grow in Him and in service to one another to live out the school’s mission. W

2009 1987

2007 1985

2005

2014

Heads of School: Judy Thiel

Jean Myrick Vernon Klaudt David Tilley Gary Cooper Gary Ray James Heyman Susan King David Tilley

1976 – 1977 1977 – 1982 1982 – 1984 1984 – 1988 1988 1988 – 1990 1990 – 1992 1992 – 2004 2004 – present

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What’s new

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HAPPY TRAILS, MR. SHELTON Written by Mrs. Connie Jennings, Middle School Teacher

On March 31, 2016 Mount Paran Christian School honored one of our most legendary leaders, Mr. Stephen Shelton. Members from all around our MPCS family converged on the Murray Arts Center to celebrate the legacy of Mr. Shelton. After 45 years in education, and fifteen of those at MPCS as administrator, board member, and even classroom teacher at times, he has impacted more lives than could be counted.

Testimony after testimony were offered by school administration, teachers, parents, and students and they all shared a common theme that defines Steve: Christ-likeness and grace.

Dr. Tilley spoke of their longtime relationship and reminisced stories of the early Shelton years. Parents spoke of the way Steve has invested in the lives of their children and also in their own lives as a parenting mentor. Middle school counselor, Brenda Ray, shared thoughts from the hearts of the middle school staff, all related to how Steve has been influential in the professional and personal growth of each person he has hired. One particularly touching moment involved the words and hugs from students who have been mentored by Mr. Shelton all through high school. Steve’s love for kids, love for staff, and commitment to partnering with home was evident in each story and obvious respect for a man who has given so much HE HAS IMPACTED MORE LIVES to the school and its families THAN CAN BE COUNTED permeated the night.

While touching and emotional at times, there were also lots of laughs and smiles. Seeing pictures of Mr. Shelton over the years, watching videos of staff and students sharing memories of him, and even a visit from Shelton the Eagle gave the event the feeling of being with family — a fitting atmosphere for a man who made us all feel loved and special and cared for every day he has been with us.

MPCS will never replace Mr. Shelton, but we will always honor him and the lessons he taught right down to his final words to us graciously offering us wisdom in how to move forward positively with new leadership — and expecting more great things for Mount Paran.

Through his leadership, his words, and his life, he never stopped teaching. Through Steve’s legacy, our community will remember an example of Christ-like grace, patience, and love. We love you, Mr. Shelton, and we will miss you. W Also retiring this year, MPCS would like to thank Mrs. Brenda Ray for her 15 years of service to our school and Ms. Tina Peach for dedicating 28 years to our students. You both will be dearly missed!

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Steve with his wife, Brenda, and their children and grandchildren.

Farewell...

and Welcome Home

Written by Miss Madeline Mulkey ‘12

Written by Miss Madeline Mulkey ‘12

BEST WISHES MR. ERIC BRADLEY Serving as a High School Head certainly requires leadership, organization, and a myriad of other skills and virtues. As I saw in my own years as a student during Mr. Eric Bradley’s tenure, it also requires a sense of humor. If you have spent any time around Mr. Bradley, you know that he has a healthy streak of sarcastic humor. I imagine that quite a few students can tell stories of partaking in friendly banter with their high school principal, but my sister (Taylor Mulkey Kinsey ‘09) and I still laugh over such memories. I know many in my graduating class and others have similar memories. From being a good sport when students draped his home in toilet paper as a “birthday present” (they later cleaned it up for him), to taking time to create elaborate secret handshakes with a few students, Mr. Bradley went beyond what was required of him in order to establish meaningful connections with those under his care.

Even though the students Mr. Bradley led over his ten years at MPCS are probably to blame for turning his hair gray, I know that there was not a day during those years that he was not working for our betterment. Though we are sad to see him, his wife, Amy, and their three children leave for Grace Christian School in Raleigh, NC to serve as Head of School, they will always be considered members of the MPCS family, and we wish them the best in the new adventure God has for them.

Thank you, Mr. Bradley, for all you have done to build up the high school and its students; and, of course, thank you for laughing with us. W

INTRODUCING NEW DIVISION HEADS As two beloved members of the MPCS family, Mr. Steve Shelton and Mr. Eric Bradley, depart, we are glad to welcome Mr. Paul Montaperto as the new Middle School Head and Mrs. Tawanna Rusk as the new High School Head. Mrs. Rusk, already a dedicated member of the MPCS family, moves into her new role after serving as Assistant Head of School since July 2015 and Lower School Head the previous four years. Her daughters Logan and Peyton graduated in 2012 and 2015 respectively after attending MPCS since lower school.

New to MPCS, Mr. Montaperto was chosen after an extensive nationwide search. He comes to us from Kelly Hill Elementary in Cumming where he has served as Assistant Principal since 2012. He previously was Assistant Principal of Chattahoochee Elementary School and has taught in both middle and lower school. Dr. David Tilley said of Mr. Montaperto, “He is a brilliant, Christian educator whose intellect, warmth, and nurturing style is evident to everyone with whom he has met. I have no doubt he is the man God has called to lead our middle school to new heights in the days to come.”

WELCOME NEW BOARD MEMBERS MPCS is also excited to receive three new members to its Board of Trustees. Dr. Kathy (Kat) Schwaig, wife to Mike, is the Dean of the Coles College of Business at Kennesaw State University. She received her doctorate in Management Information Systems from the University of South Carolina and has served in various positions at the Michael J. Coles College of Business at KSU since 2002. A member of several leadership boards, she says of her new position, “It is easy to invest where you already have your treasure,” referring to her daughter, Emma (grade 2).

Roberto (Bob) Jimenez, husband to Julia and father of Josh (grade 10) and Emily (grade 9), currently is Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications and Public Affairs at Cox Enterprises. He has worked as Director of Global Communications and International Marketing at AFC Enterprises and as Manager of Public Affairs at Walt Disney World. He too has served on a variety of leadership boards, including the Latin American Association and the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.

Dr. Brian Kennerly, husband to Holle and father to Sara (grade 7) and Blaire (grade 3), is the Executive Director of The Council on Educational Standards and Accountability (CESA) and has extensive experience in private school leadership, administration, teaching, and coaching. He received his doctorate from Vanderbilt University in Education, Organizational Leadership and Policy and served as Head of Brookstone School in Columbus, GA for five years. Dr. Kennerly expressed a great sense of peace with the decision to send his daughters to MPCS, and he hopes that his service can help make MPCS “the best school it can be.” W

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What’s new

INAUGURAL MPCS

Women’s Retreat

Written by Mrs. Tiffany Westbrook, Graphic Designer

What happens when a few Christian school mothers pray for revival for their families? God answers with a resounding “let’s go.” More than 150 women of the MPCS community traveled to Callaway Gardens this past February. It was the first event of its kind intended to connect moms and stir their hearts for God and their children. Welcome to the inaugural MPCS Women’s Retreat.

The idea began as a tug in the heart of MPCS parent, Rebecca Partain. She felt God nudging her toward connecting and restoring the moms in the MPCS community. Partnering with the Christian Life department, she involved a team of 20 moms to volunteer to create a weekend getaway for women. “Restored for His Glory” Women’s Retreat was born.

As the retreat committee began planning, they “felt God wanted each woman to walk away from the retreat knowing without a doubt that her Abba Father knows her, sees her, is for her, and lavishly loves her!” said Rebecca. “We knew God wanted to bring personal restoration and healing to the women of MPCS and to their families.”

Catching the vision of what God wanted to do, the volunteers went to work committing their time, energy, and financial resources to make it happen. Rebecca explained, “Everything planned for the weekend was to enable women to connect, be encouraged, and walk away feeling restored in their faith and in their relationship with their precious Father in Heaven.”

The ladies who traveled to Callaway Gardens were blessed by acoustic worship time with Molley Moody from Passion City Church as well as by speaker, Rachel Faulkner Brown. Rachel spoke

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of her incredible story of unbelievable personal tragedy and how she has been restored, using it for the glory of God. Door prizes, breakout sessions, and activities filled the afternoon and evening, including roasting marshmallows by the fire. It ended with “one of the most powerful times of prayer I’ve experienced” says Rebecca.

The women’s retreat successfully brought many MPCS moms together and community was formed. With this momentum, the team began planning an additional event to involve more MPCS women and students. “We found that women are hungry for something real and authentic,” Rebecca said. “Ladies asked for more opportunities to gather together to worship, learn, and live life in community with one another.” For many mothers, our MPCS school family is where they connect with other parents and truly “do life” together. A “Girls Night Out” picnic-style event for women and daughters was held in April on the Miller family lawn.

Titus 2:3-5 emphasizes the importance of older women teaching younger women the ways of God. This verse was lived out that evening as sixth-grade girls worshipped with seniors and teenagers worshipped with older women. “It was a beautiful picture of what God desires of us as we live in community with one another,” said Carol Miller, MPCS parent and event host.

More girls’ nights and a second annual retreat are on the horizon for next year. Rebecca reflects, “As we’ve always known, mom is the heart of the home. We want to be certain that our Mount Paran women are being poured into and filled up so that their cup runs over into the lives of their husbands and their children.” W

Christian Life SERVANT-LEADERSHIP

M

Kayley Roukoski at Feed My Lambs

Action and TRUTH 1 JOHN 3:18 — DEAR CHILDREN, LET US NOT LOVE WITH WORDS OR SPEECH BUT WITH ACTIONS AND IN TRUTH.

Written by Mrs. Allison Pugmire, MPCS Parent

Mount Paran Christian School’s new service opportunities were birthed from the above Bible verse.

“Action and Truth” has become a growing dedication of our school to raise up servant-leaders in our community year-round. God calls us to serve others out of obedience to Him. Obedience is the outward proof of our love. “Action and Truth” was launched in several grades to form on-going partnerships with community ministries and enable our students to learn servant-leadership first-hand.

This school year, our fifth grade partnered with Feed My Lambs Marietta preschool. Once a month, one of our fifth grade classes visited their preschool and were split into four groups with each group “adopting” a three- or four-year-old class. We would enter the classroom and usually be greeted with a song or reciting of Scripture. We had a sweet time of cheering them on as they learn to hide God’s Word in their hearts. Our students were also able to pray over the classroom, students, and teachers. Each month we brought a craft to make with the class. This was a time of more one-on-one interaction as our students assisted and encouraged their students in their creativity. Then we ended our time together with play. The kids loved the opportunity to get on the floor and really get to know each other. The Feed My Lambs students were seen, heard, and loved by our children, rising to the occasion of service. It was always sad when it was time to leave.

MPCS made posters for each class with pictures of our students that said “we are praying for you.”

It was common to see a Feed My Lambs child pointing to or even kissing the pictures, and asking for God’s blessing on them. The students also sent handmade pictures or goodies back and forth throughout the year. Relationships were formed and are flourishing! At the preschool graduation in May, Feed My Lambs was so gracious to thank Mount Paran Christian School on the back of the program and included pictures of our students serving throughout their slideshow. Fifth grade parapro Angie Wilson said, “I feel this has been such a success for our kids and the Feed My Lambs children, as well. I certainly know I have enjoyed being a part of such a sweet time.”

Sixth-graders at Hayes Elementary

Junior Jessica Spain at Feed My Lambs on Service Day WINGSPAN | Summer 2016

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Christian Life

Sarah Grace Marr at Hayes Elementary

Alison Vaughan at Camp Gideon on Service Day

Molly Brown and Abby Gillis at Alive Ministries on Service Day

Our sixth grade blossomed as we had the opportunity to serve at Hayes Elementary School. Once a month, the entire sixth grade class went to Hayes and divided up into each of their eight kindergarten classes. Each visit involved a different focus, such as language arts, math, or science, and we took different activities to work on with the children. Each of our students was paired with one or two Hayes’ students for the entire year. God really bonded these relationships. Every student felt the joy of being together, and there were even tears at our last visit saying goodbye. It was so inspiring to see every boy and girl in our sixth grade class meet the challenge of becoming a leader, role model, and friend to the kindergarten students. Though we were not able to speak of Jesus, we took the job of encouraging learning and shining Jesus’ light very seriously. Mr. Kevin Cunane shared a teacher’s perspective: “I enjoyed our time at Hayes. What I enjoyed most was seeing our students in a different environment where they were able to build relationships with younger students. I witnessed many great qualities emerge during our time at Hayes.”

The sixth grade class also had a voluntary after-school service club called Hands On Hayes. A group of about 15 of our students went to Hayes on Wednesday afternoons to tutor kindergarten students who desired a bit more help with phonics, sight words, and reading. This was a special time to pour into students where we already had established relationships. The parents supporting this club were blessed week after week by witnessing our students develop into shining examples of patience, kindness, and love.

Students pray for homeless at 7 Bridges

Avery Searles with Gaines Park visitor

WE TOOK THE JOB OF ENCOURAGING LEARNING AND SHINING JESUS’ LIGHT VERY SERIOUSLY

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SERVICE DAY IS A CELEBRATION OF A YEAR OF LOVING OTHERS THROUGH ‘ACTION AND TRUTH’ Action and Truth team at Calvary Children’s Home

Sophomores Emily Keller and Sara Armstrong serve Walton Adventure Center kids

MPCS also launched “Action and Truth” in the high school with three different volunteer options each semester, serving every other week. One opportunity was to join children in praise and worship at Ridenour Adventure Center. We spent our time with an energetic group singing and praying. We also hosted these students at a home football game on the night of Eagle Fest. The children enjoyed food, games, reserved seats, and time with our students.

Other “Action and Truth” options for high school students were serving at Calvary Children’s Home or at Gaines Park Assisted Living, a residence for senior citizens. Groups of students traveled by bus to these nearby locations. Students served the elderly with musical performances and fellowship. Others played sports with the Calvary kids or helped with whatever odd jobs needed to be done on the property.

Our year of servant-leadership culminated with an amazing, school-wide Service Day. This year’s theme was “Because He Loved.” There are many stories of teams making a glorious impact on our community as well as service impacting our own students. We have developed relationships with more than 50 sites that we have served for more than ten years. MPCS preschool through second grade students served while remaining on campus, and third through twelfth-grade students went off-site to MUST Ministries, Camp Gideon, Safehouse Outreach, Atlanta Dream Center, Blue Skies, 7 Bridges, Extension Women’s Center, and Warehouse of Hope just to name a few.

Service Day was the birthplace for the “Action and Truth” initiative to involve students in service more frequently. Students served our monthly ministry partners such as Feed My Lambs and Gaines Park, who became well-acquainted with our kids. MPCS parent and Service Day coordinator Meredith McKee said, “My hope is that in the one day of serving even one child would leave saying they helped make a difference to someone in need, not to make myself feel better but to lighten the load of another.” Service Day is a celebration of a year of loving others through “Action and Truth.” We love because He first loved us. W

Fourth-graders Ben Crain and Brooke Terry on Service Day

Freshmen Lauren Loria and Caroline Rubalcava at Gaines Park Roman Ellis makes crafts for hospital patients on Service Day

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Christian Life

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Spiritual Emphasis Written by Mr. Aaron Farrant

Going to Mount Paran Christian School is a unique school experience. We are intentional about dedicating time for students to grow in their knowledge and relationship with God as part of their education.

As the sixth grade learns about the Jewish culture at the time the Bible was written, they take a trip to the Antiquity Center where they can go into a tent made like Abraham’s. They experience what the cities were like when Jesus was on the earth. They see how things were grown and eat a Passover meal like Jesus and the disciples ate. This helps their young minds understand the stories of the Bible and what they are learning.

The high school goes on a retreat each fall. The time away from the regular routine allows the students to focus on God and connect with their classmates. Each year new friendships are made and classes bond around having fun together and seeking God as a group. The students come back talking about how much fun they had on retreat, but also how the praise and worship impacted them and how powerful it is to see their peers worshiping God together.

Each middle school grade and the high school as a whole also have a spiritual emphasis day where the staff designs a day specifically for that group to grow in the areas they need the most. Students have an incredible experience on these days and you can hear it in what they say. Jordyn Tyler described the day this way: “Our eighth-grade spiritual emphasis day was powerful in so many ways.

Not only did I walk away feeling closer to the Lord, but also unified with my fellow classmates in God. I really felt the Lord’s presence that day!” Another

allow students to focus on God and connect with their classmates

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HONOR GOD

it is the consistent pursuit of God daily that defines the school

student, Kage Dees, described his grade’s spiritual emphasis day like this: “Spiritual Emphasis Day was the best day I have ever had at Mount Paran. It helped me to grow as a young man and helped the students in the grade to grow closer.”

Chapel small groups were also newly formed this past academic year. In middle and high school, breakout groups met once a month with a staff leader or mentor. Girls and boys groups gathered together in classrooms, green rooms, and by the lake to discuss chapel topics, take prayer requests, and fellowship together. It was a chance for students to dig deeper in a small, safe haven.

It isn’t just the once-a-year special days that make Mount Paran Christian School unique and impactful. It is the consistent pursuit of God — daily — that defines the school. It is the Bible teachers spending time answering questions the students have about their faith; the math teacher taking time to pray with the kids before a test when they feel anxious; the preschool teacher explaining Bible stories and asking children to pray for one another; the Spanish teacher willing to stay after school to listen to what is going on in the life of one of her students and then asking the student the next week about it because she has been thinking and praying about it all weekend. It is the times that we come together for chapel and sing out loud to God each week and hear His Word spoken to us. It’s how we build small group times into the chapel time so the students can discuss what we heard in chapel and how that impacts the way we live. It culminates at commencement when beloved faculty and staff pray over our graduates.

These days and times have become part of who we are and further reinforce our desire to help all students become what God created them to be — that they will live a life that honors and worships God. From the example and love our staff provides, to the intentional times that are set aside, and the consistent way that our community lives out God’s calling on us — MPCS desires to bring glory to God and help every student grow closer to Him and one another! W

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Christian Life

Caroline DeMent in the Dominican Republic

on a mission Written by Mr. Justin Nelson, High School Science Teacher

As Christians, we are commanded by Matthew to “go therefore and make disciples of all the nations... teaching them to observe all that I commanded you.” It is with great humility and an unwavering desire to show the love of God to others that MPCS sends missions teams all across the globe. The students and leaders become the hands and the feet of Jesus as they minister to the needs of others. Students have been able to serve internationally in Peru, Guatemala, and the Dominican Republic.

MPCS families have also served young children with cancer at Blue Skies retreats. This summer, our students will also serve with the Appalachian Service Project.

Peru Short-Term Mission Team

WE ALL GOT TO SEE GOD AT WORK Peru During our short term mission trip to Peru, students have the opportunity to visit homes within the community to complete home improvement projects and to share the Gospel with these families. The team also partners with Morningstar Childreach Ministries and goes into public schools to share the Gospel with the local children. Senior Harrison Meyer states, “Peru was an awesome time to experience God’s movement in a country and culture so different than ours. Working with the ministry down there helped my confidence in sharing the gospel and left me with a greater perspective of God and how far-reaching and universal His love is.” Senior, Cassidy Ray added, “Our trip to Peru proved to be a life-changing trip. The opportunity to serve in a place in South America really opened my eyes and heart to a new kind of passion for Jesus that made me crave it more every day.”

Dominican Republic Short-Term Mission Team

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Guatemala The spring break Guatemala team was made up of 15 high school students who served at Mana de Vida, a school for very poor families in Esquintla, Guatemala. Food security and malnutrition are two of the big challenges that the families face. Our team partnered with the school in their efforts to begin to address this challenge by building a community garden on the back of the school property. Seventeen families signed up to take part in the garden program. The families were provided with secure garden plots and will attend a weekly training program where they will learn about all things garden-related from how to compost to the importance of

LOVE OTHERS

good nutrition. The weekly class will also have a discipleship component where the families will have the opportunity to join small groups and develop their faith.

The team also returned to Amor del Nino, an orphanage that is home to almost 50 children, many of which are still in cribs. The students were able to be a blessing to the children and caregivers. Freshman Alexander Barton said, “The Guatemala mission trip was by far the best experience of my life. I saw God work in amazing ways. It was an incredible week and we all got to see God at work through us to provide for the people of Guatemala.”

Dominican Republic MPCS has established deep roots in the Dominican Republic. We have been able to partner with the same missionary and pastors for more than a decade. The students who go on this trip get to minister to the local communities through Bible and food distribution, performing service projects with local churches, spreading the love of Christ at local orphanages, and sharing their testimonies through biblical stories and songs.

Blue Skies Blue Skies Ministries is an organization designed to carry families with sick children above the clouds of childhood cancer. It provides families with an all-expense-paid vacation to Port Saint Joe, Florida where volunteers take care of them. Many MPCS families — parents and children — have participated in these retreats over the past several years, including the most recent spring break trip led by MPCS staff members and parents.

Parties and events are organized so that the guest families are celebrated each day and night, and kids with pediatric cancer are given an experience they will never forget. Blue Skies changes lives, for both volunteers and guests.

Appalachian Service Project Appalachian Service Project (ASP) provides home repair to those less fortunate living in Central Appalachia while inspiring hope and love through Christian ministry. Alumnus Anthony Reyna, worked as a volunteer for ASP for several summers. Anthony is excited to have a team comprised of 21 students and teachers from MPCS participate in this week-long trip in July. Sra. Coleman is leading this trip and while she has been on several mission trips to Spanish-speaking countries, she felt called to lead a team on this domestic mission trip: “Leading a domestic mission trip will help our students see the need for mission work and sharing the Gospel right here in the United States. I am excited for our kids to hear the hearts and stories of people in their own language.” W

Appalachian Service Project preparation

Guatemala Short-Term Mission Team at work

Senior Silas Hicks with Blue Skies family

HELPED MY CONFIDENCE IN SHARING THE GOSPEL

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Christian Life WALK IN TRUTH

WE CAN RELATE

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Written by Mr. John Braswell, Dean of Students

IT IS ABOUT MODELING CHRISTIAN CHARACTER IN MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS

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The mission of Mount Paran Christian School is clear and direct: to prepare servant leaders to honor God, love others, and walk in Truth. While no one would question the intent of our discipleship mission statement, the rubber meets the road when we determine how we actually achieve preparing students to be servant-leaders who honor God, love others, and walk daily in the truth of God’s Word. Everyone knows it’s one thing to say what you’re going to do and quite another thing to actually do it. Stating your mission and achieving your mission can be a world apart unless you have a strategy that works.

At MPCS, the school’s mission is achieved through programs that emphasize relationships. At each level, the faculty, staff, and administration determine how to best achieve this through a strong sense of community.

Often, the word community is used at MPCS to describe the strong, binding relationships that exist within the school; parents with parents, parents with faculty, teachers with teachers, teachers with students, and, of course, students with students. The strategy becomes clear that in order to build community, students must be discipled through our programs. This leads to the question: How do we disciple students to honor God, love others, and walk in Truth?

In the MPCS high school, discipling others is always about relationships. Understandably, most relationships in high school are friendship-based while others are formed through the context of programs that emphasize mentoring. Consequently, we find faculty mentoring students in the classroom and in small groups, coaches mentoring athletes, and even parents mentoring kids through early-morning Bible studies. In high school, one parent even created the International Missions Club, whose goal is to develop godly leaders that help others reach the full potential God intended for them and to practice servant-leadership by serving communities around the world. It is in these mentoring groups that the school’s mission is taught and learned.

In addition to being mentored, MPCS high school students are also given opportunities to personally mentor other students.

Students can get involved in the 11:1 Effect, a program whereby high school students mentor younger students in lower and middle school. Here they connect and intentionally invest in the younger kids. Third-grader, Sam Westbrook states, “I can’t be late to class on Wednesdays — that’s when I get to play games and talk baseball with Davis (Akins, grade 9).” Kids are thriving on these relationships with upperclassmen.

PMI group led by seniors Harrison Meyer and Jackson Calhoun.

Left: 11:1 junior, Holly Jordan with Jamie Mellom (grade 3) and PMI group led by Gracie Lochridge, Ashley Busby, and Natalie Hammonds.

Below: 11:1 Effect mentors and lower school students.

The REACH program is also about mentoring relationships, as its goal is to assist new students in grades 10-12 transition into the high school. It is saying to these students, “We care about you and we want to help you be successful here. Come and join us and be a part of who we are at MPCS.” The Peer Mentoring Initiative (PMI) is a great program for upperclassmen to mentor freshmen and impact many students. PMI is a bridge program where selected juniors and seniors assist freshmen in transitioning to high school through the context of small groups. PMI offers a unique opportunity for freshmen to develop friendships with upperclassmen who model the school’s mission.

So often we receive positive feedback from parents who find the program incredibly beneficial to their freshman child’s development. Case in point — just recently, a mother of two MPCS graduates said, “My children are serving their communities via volunteer work that I believe was motivated by the

mentor relationships they built at MPCS.” While the PMI program is evolving, it has been unquestionably effective. This spring nearly 50 juniors and seniors applied to be in the program, a testimony to its value in the eyes of the students.

It is in the context of these mentoring relationships that we see life-change occur and the school’s mission statement carried out.

Building the Kingdom of God among our student body is about discipling and many of the programs at MPCS are doing the job.

Ultimately, discipling isn’t about teaching students — it is about modeling Christian character in meaningful relationships. That’s what transforms the lives of our students. W

THEY CONNECT AND INTENTIONALLY INVEST IN THE YOUNGER KIDS WINGSPAN | Summer 2016

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Academics

God T Science and

Written by Dr. Bonnie Stephens, High School Biology Teacher

The bacterium swims along using its flagellar motor to push it effortlessly through the liquid. It swims toward those nutrients that will sustain life and tumbles away from those that will ultimately result in death. There is nothing else in nature similar to the flagellar motor. This motor is irreducibly complex, only working if every part is in place. It is the handiwork of a creator and is a most eloquent design. It is the work of our God. At Mount Paran Christian School, our science classes reinforce the idea that the natural phenomena we observe would not be possible without an intelligent designer behind it.

Science or God? It is often assumed that you have to choose one side or the other. There is a longstanding belief that the two cannot coexist. If you believe in God, then you must sacrifice your belief in the relative truths that science reveals to us; likewise, if you believe what science dictates, then there is no room for God. However, this is not the case. There is not a tension between the two. They go hand in hand and are not two sides from which to choose but are intertwined, inseparable from one another. This is the way that science is taught at MPCS. Students are taught that they can defend their faith with science in addition to the Bible. Biblical truths are woven throughout our lessons and integrated into our daily teachings. They are not taught as separate units, simply because you cannot separate the biblical truths from science.

One such example of this is in our freshmen Biology class. Students have a unique opportunity to study evolution in a way that equips them to critically evaluate information presented to them. We discuss the major lines of scientific evidence that are traditionally used to support Darwinian evolution — the idea that all living organisms originate from a single-celled ancestor through the process of natural selection. The problem with these arguments is that they do not represent truth. Science is truth only relative to the data on which it’s built. As more knowledge is acquired, scientific ideas and principles are reevaluated and incorporate new findings. However, in the arguments surrounding Darwinian Evolution, scientific information is often excluded, providing an inaccurate picture. The evidence presented on its own is often compelling, although incorrect. We are in a position that we can present a holistic view to this argument by presenting data that is often

omitted, which changes the conclusions that are drawn. Our students see that God’s hand is evident in this design, and this enables students to not only defend their faith but witness to others using scientific evidence.

A former MPCS student commented on how her science classroom experience equipped her for this conversation: “I’m currently in a marine biology camp and being a Christian is the minority as I expected. One of the girls began talking about how she is a devout atheist and how science can disprove religion. She had good points that I would have believed 100% if it wasn’t for our science unit. Once I told her the stands against evolution that we learned in class she really began to rethink atheism. I am thankful for learning this because it helped me show her Christianity in a positive way. It was great that I could use that knowledge in a scientific setting.” Notes like this are not uncommon.

We hear time and time again how students have been able to defend their faith and share the love of God with others by using science.

At MPCS, biblical truths are a part of science just as science is a part of biblical truths. In Romans 1:20, Paul writes, “For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities — his eternal power and divine nature — have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.” This is how we teach science at MPCS. Each science class integrates examples like the one illustrated above. We equip the students to critically evaluate the world around us so that God’s hand is clearly seen in every facet of science.

If our students are to take a stand for their faith, they must be trained for the challenge. Rising junior Katie Roberts adds, “What makes Mount Paran science classes different than others is the fact that my Christian faith grows stronger with each new lesson. We explore the beauty of God’s world which further proves only He could make something so beautiful and complex.

In Biology, we study Evolution right alongside Intelligent Design. We learn the facts that disprove Evolution and prove Intelligent Design. Many schools only offer the Evolution point of view, and some Christian schools only offer the Intelligent Design side. This gives us the right information to defend our faith. Like the motto says, our faith and intellect grow as one. I am grateful to have been here since I was little to learn and understand these truths.” W

SCIENCE IS TRUTH ONLY RELATIVE TO THE DATA ON WHICH IT’S BUILT

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NOT TWO SIDES FROM WHICH TO CHOOSE BUT INTERTWINED, INSEPARABLE FROM ONE ANOTHER

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Academics

MPCS lower school students Quinn Moore. Shelby Wheaton, and Galilea Szabo

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growth mindset

REFRAMING HEARTS AND ATTITUDES

Written by Mrs. Dana Gray, Lower School Guidance Counselor

creating a love for learning and a passion for facing new challenges

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Have you ever heard it said, “Attitude is everything”? Lower school students have been learning how to take ownership of their attitude towards learning. They are developing a “growth mindset” based on Carol Dweck’s book Mindset.

The premise of the book is that there are two basic mindsets that shape our behaviors and ultimately our lives. A fixed mindset assumes intelligence and abilities are predetermined and set, and no amount of effort can improve those traits. When you hear statements like, “I am not a good speller” or “ I am not good at math” or “I am not good in athletics,” these statements come from a fixed mindset. However, a growth mindset assumes intelligence and basic abilities can be developed through effort and hard work.

At the heart of the research, a growth mindset creates a desire for learning rather than a need for approval where students view challenges and mistakes as opportunities for growth and development. In the classroom, MPCS students are embracing mistakes rather than viewing them as signs of failure. Shelby Wheaton, a rising first-grader, understands this concept. “When I make mistakes, I think about how my brain is stretching and growing and I keep trying until I get it right!” She views new activities and skills as opportunities to grow and see if it might be a skill she enjoys.

Growth mindset creates a love for learning and a passion for facing new challenges. In the classroom, errors are seen as opportunities to stretch the brain. For example, when a word is misspelled, a growth mindset says “I will keep working on it until I get it.” A growth mindset can make all the difference in areas of self-esteem and how students view themselves as they face learning challenges.

It fosters creativity and motivation in the classroom while enhancing cooperation among students.

Rather than competing against each other, students celebrate the success of their fellow classmates because they recognize they are all in on the journey of learning and growing together. Rising first-grader, Quinn Moore, celebrates the success of his classmates and encourages others to keep trying and not to give up. These attitudes enable students to feel like a team — working together to accomplish the same goal of learning new concepts. For parents, this can dramatically impact the way test grades are viewed. Parents can choose to say, “How can we work together to make sense of this concept?” Instead of focusing on grades, we focus on effort so that the end result will be a love for the learning process.

The growth mindset impacts every area of life, including social interactions and friendships. Rising sixth-grader, Galilea Szabo, taught other students how to handle criticism by figuring out ways to turn the negative into a positive. This simple technique has powerful implications on brain development, impacting one’s belief systems and self-esteem.

NBA legend, Michael Jordan is a great example of the growth mindset stating, “I’ve always believed that if you put in the work, the results will come. I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career and lost 300 games.

Sixteen times, I’ve been trusted to take the game- winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over again — and that is why I succeed. My attitude is that I will turn a perceived weakness into a strength.”

MPCS is teaching students to embrace the growth mindset and encourages families to strive to raise kids with a passion for learning and a desire to push through life’s challenges both in and outside of the classroom. W

MOCK TRIAL WINS REGION Written by Mr. Chuck Paas, High School English Teacher

The 2015-2016 Mount Paran Christian School Mock Trial team again had a stellar year. The team members worked countless hours toward their first round competition and walked away as the Region Champions, defeating the likes of The Walker School, Walton High School, North Cobb Christian School, and several other local programs. This year’s attorneys were Holly Jordan, Abby Yake, Kendall Gilcrease, Rachel Welch, Kate Massey, and Caitlyn Galloway. These young ladies worked diligently to learn and memorize every nuance of this year’s case and poured so much of themselves into the team which resulted in a championship.

instead of focusing on grades, we focus on effort Several awards were won by our attorneys both at the Region and District competition. Comparable success was achieved with the team’s witnesses: Samuel Yalew, Alexander Reyna, Gracie Lochridge, Emily Keller, Clay Van de Vate, Katie Kelley, and Teni Aina. These students had to memorize all of the elements within the case that pertained to their character. The remainder of this year’s Region Championship squad were our timekeepers: Mark LeGate, Owen Devaney, and Alexander Barton. Without our timekeepers and their commitment to helping attorneys and witnesses craft perfectly timed direct and cross examinations, the team would be completely ineffective.

Lastly, it is important to mention the dedication of our volunteer attorney coaches. Mrs. Aurieanne Sneed dedicates countless hours each week to help the MPCS team round into shape. A big thank you also goes out to Mr. Alec Galloway. He, as well, served as one of the team’s volunteer attorney coaches.

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Academics

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Blessing Ceremony Written by Mr. Chris Tanton, Middle School Teacher

Middle school is such a unique time in the lives of our students at Mount Paran Christian School. The anticipation of major events such as the trips to Charleston and Washington D.C. builds from the very moment our students begin to walk the hallways and sit in the classrooms. With each passing day, students face unique challenges and opportunities to grow mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. By the time they reach eighth grade, many are ready to take hold of their faith and make it their own. In the final few weeks we begin to see them comprehend that this season of life is over, and it’s time for them to move on to our high school. When all the assignments are graded and the sports seasons are completed, we reach a moment where it’s time to say farewell. At MPCS, we call that the Eighth Grade Blessing Ceremony.

Middle School Head, Steve Shelton, shares, “The Eighth Grade Blessing is specifically designed to affirm students spiritually and to publically share our deep affection for them as they transition into high school.

Emotions of the evening are high, tears are evident in the eyes of many, and hugs are abundant.” It is a unique blend of celebrating accomplishment, recognizing hard work, and prayerfully sending our students into the next phase of their life journeys.

If you arrived early, you would see students taking photos of family and friends by Lake McDonald. You might see moms shedding a tear, thanking a teacher or coach for their investment in their son or daughter.

As the ceremony begins, you would see students nervously proceed into the Kristi Lynn Theatre and take their seats on the stage. You would hear from their principal, Mr. Steve Shelton, who would share his last message to the eighth grade class of 2016. You would see, feel, and hear the love that he, Ms. Brenda Ray, their guidance counselor, and the teachers have for these students. You would laugh as he shares stories and inside jokes in his speech. You would get a sense of what MPCS is all about.

The students receive certificates, hugs of affirmation, and sometimes a high five with their teachers while personal comments written by their parents are shared by our headmaster, Dr. David Tilley. At the end of the ceremony, a formal blessing is spoken over the students by the entire room and a closing prayer is offered to send them off to high school. “They know our children so well,” said parent Michelle Watkins. “You can see this relationship on the stage in the comments made by teachers and the sweet smiles and smirks that come from our children as they listen. It’s even more evident after the ceremony when hugs and well wishes are abundant!” It is truly personal for the teachers who agree it’s the students we’ll miss more than anything else. We are to be the adults and the mentors — but frequently we go home feeling as if we were the ones that were poured into and most blessed. W

PRAYERFULLY SENDING OUR STUDENTS INTO THE NEXT PHASE OF THEIR LIFE JOURNEYS

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Arts

Junior, Emily Finch in church orchestra

ARTS UNITES WITH CHURCH Written by Mrs. Julie Duncan, Chorus Director

arts students may choose to use their training for another purpose

The idea of students in typical service and missions projects conjures images of people dressed in work clothes, digging, laying bricks, doing yard work, serving food, sorting donation items, and other similar activities. However MPCS arts students may choose to use their training for another purpose. Our performers recognize their creative talents as gifts from God that are being refined for His glory, and that can be shared with others for His message to be communicated more fully. The result is MPCS arts students singing, playing, and acting, at their church as a point of service — and as a point of worship.

The arts at MPCS have a unique way of helping students live out the mission of uniting school and church because students are honing their talents to go out in service through the arts. Many curricular arts classes are designed to train students so that they may participate in arts ministries at different levels in their local church. Technical theatre, chapel band, chorus, and orchestra are examples of classes that are paving the way to help students confidently join their church bands, choirs, praise teams, dance teams, and drama teams. In addition, many of the MPCS staff lead this charge by example as they serve in their church or local music ministries.

As a staff member who has served in music ministry since my teenage years, I am proud to see my own son also serving in this way. Paul Duncan (grade 11, pictured right) is in the contemporary worship band at school and with that training has been able to serve in the youth band at church. His passion for worship and music combines to give him a great outlet to serve his church with his talent. Paul remarks, ”I love serving in church because it’s a way for me to give back to God and the church. Without my church family as well as the gifts that God has blessed me with, I wouldn’t be who I am today and serving and giving back is the least I can do.”

Many of our alumni are also continuing in this type of service at their colleges and churches. Alexis Hicks ‘13 (pictured above) reflects: “MPCS really prepared me in leading worship by helping me get comfortable in front of people — strengthening my talents and abilities through encouragement and experience.” She says, “I enjoy leading worship because I get to use the talents that God gave me to serve the body of Christ.” These students and alumni are the future of church worship.

The hope and goal is that students realize early on that using their talents and gifts in service is a way of giving back to God. Students can bless others at their place of worship through the talents they have developed at MPCS. As it says in Proverbs 3:9-10: “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the first fruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty.” W

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Arts

arts elevating

REFLECTING ON PERFORMANCE Written by Mr. Cary Brague, Director of Arts

Spring 2016 saw many entertaining and aesthetic moments from the MPCS arts students. The band, orchestra, and chorus from grades three through twelve participated in the 2016 Georgia Music Educators Association annual Performance Evaluations. This is the first time that the entire MPCS music department has engaged in this event in wholesale fashion.

On nearly all accounts, our program earned the top label of “superior,” with the band earning its first ever “superior” in school history. Tenth-grade vocalist Emma Perry was named to the 2016 Georgia Governor’s Honors Program in music/vocal study. She is the first-ever MPCS music student selected for this honor. Eleventh-grade artist Emily Blackburn was named to the 2016 Georgia Governor’s Honors Program in Visual Arts. She is the first-ever MPCS visual arts student selected for this honor.

The spring high school musical Crazy for You was performed in the Kristi Lynn Theater and was nominated for four statewide awards in the 2016 Shuler Hensley Georgia High School Musical Theatre Awards program, a subsidiary of the National High School Musical Theatre Awards program. Of the four nominations, MPCS won its second-straight Shuler Hensley Award for Outstanding Choreography.

MPCS initiated a new tradition of college arts “signings” for senior arts students who matriculate into college arts programs. Students who are accepted into college arts programs undergo very rigorous selection processes. They must first be admitted academically to their institutions followed by additional examinations and multi-round auditions by the arts departments to which they apply. The odds are difficult and the stakes are high. Arts students compete for freshman slots that range in number from two to twenty, having to compete against multiples in the hundreds. The 2016 graduating class has produced eight such college arts students’ commitments, in music, musical theatre, commercial music, graphic design, cinematography, and dance.

High school students weren’t the only ones who experienced success this spring. Middle school drama presented Beauty of the Century in the blackbox theater. In our fourth year of lower school musical theatre performances, A Year with Frog and Toad Kids entertained crowds. Hours of practice culminated in the spring chorus, orchestra, and dance concerts. MPCS preschool, lower, and middle school also participated in the first-ever Christian School Art Exhibit at Mount Bethel and brought home 18 superior and high excellence awards, including the coveted Best of Show. W

on nearly all accounts, our program earned the top label of ‘superior’

Above: Natalie Hammonds and Beau Harmon with Crazy for You dancers. Below: Charolotte Roman, Emma Perry, and Kayla Green in chorus, Chris Kalichack and Wyatt Smith in Frog and Toad, and Emily Blackburn self-portrait.

Written by Miss Natalie Hammonds ‘17

This past spring, I had the privilege of performing in the musical Crazy for You with an incredible cast. My biggest prayer throughout the whole process was that God would receive the glory. As I continued to pray this over and over, I began to really think about what that actually meant. How do I give God glory when I’m not necessarily doing something that directly talks about Jesus?

As I continued to meditate on this I tried to focus on how grateful I was for this opportunity and for the ability to perform. I remember one rehearsal on stage as I was singing, everything sort of fell into place. I realized that it was a gift to be able to perform. To pursue and enjoy the gifts that God has granted us brings Him glory. Whether on the baseball field or in the classroom, we should recognize that we are so undeserving of all the many blessings and abilities that God gives us, but to work hard at them blesses God. Our desire to please God, pleases God. He rejoices when we rely on Him and depend on Him for guidance.

As it says in Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”

As you think about the gifts God has blessed you with, think about what a privilege it is to have that talent and ask God for guidance and strength as you work to use your skills to bring Him glory! W

Class of 2016 Arts Signees:

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• Molly Brown – Musical Theatre / Samford University • Makayla Davis – Varsity Dance Team / University of Georgia • Chase Denton – Cinematography / Belmont University • Beau Harmon – Musical Theatre / Texas State University • Ragan McCoy – Music Performance, Tuba / Berry College • Tommy Paschal – Commercial Music, Drum Set / Belmont University • Abby Richardson – Graphic Design / Flagler College • Allie Stewart – Musical Theatre / University of Alabama

Athletics

HOW TO WIN

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Winning is often defined by the number of games a team has won, the number of championships a program has achieved, or by the number of athletes that have gone on to play at the next level. Individual statistics play a large part in an athlete’s perceived accomplishments, but what if there was more to winning than just the outcome of a game or an individual statistic?

What if our overall goal was more about the Christian character development of young players as opposed to just wins and losses?

As coaches at Mount Paran Christian School we are able to focus not only on skill development, but on personal, spiritual, and mental development and growth of athletes. Prayer before practices and games, daily devotions, and accountability groups are just a few of the many ways in which coaches are able to pour into players on a personal level and help student athletes grow spiritually and emotionally. Character development plays a large part in a student-athlete’s success on and off the field, and many of our coaches make that a priority with their teams.

Varsity Baseball Coach Kyle Reese says, “I encourage my players to get the focus off themselves and onto their teammates.” One of his main goals is to get everyone to understand that if they are taking care of their teammates, then everyone is under care. Coach Reese references Proverbs in many of his team devotions and says one of his favorites is Proverbs 11:25 “…those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” Senior Taylor Trammell echoed Coach Reese’s thoughts and spoke about how important it was to

MPCS senior athletes, Bree Brown, Jolie Tucker, Taylor Trammell, Katie Larkin, and Garrett Harris

Written by Mrs. Caroline Bradford ‘03, PE Teacher and Varsity Tennis Coach

DEVELOP THE CHARACTER OF A PLAYER AS MUCH AS THEIR SKILL

him to begin and end practice with a quote or devotion focusing on character development and being a good teammate: “The quotes Coach Reese shared before practice often gave me encouragement throughout high school, both in the classroom and on the field.”

Senior Bree Brown spoke about her former basketball teammates Shannon McGeary ‘14 and Emily Spillane ‘14 and how they set an example of what it meant to be a positive role model and teammate both on and off the court. Positive leadership and encouragement from other players encouraged her to work hard at practice and want to play her best for her team.

Brown also credits Varsity Basketball Coach Tab Griffin with being able to motivate her — which she believes, comes from coaches desiring to know their athletes on a more personal level.

Coaches often play a large factor in molding the hearts of athletes on the MPCS campus. Whether it be through encouraging players to put God first, praying before competitions, or developing accountability groups, MPCS coaches work to develop the character of a player as much as their skill level. Though coaches are always striving to win games, the development of Christian athletes is the ultimate way for coaches to attain victory. W

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Athletics

Talent, Character, and Major League Baseball Written by Mr. David Lowery, Director of Marketing and Communications

Taylor Trammell’s senior campaign will be one to remember for years to come. A four-year starter in football and baseball, Taylor saved the best for his final year of high school. The 2015 football season saw Taylor lead all Cobb schools in rushing, breaking the county record of 2500 yards, while also being named the Atlanta Journal-Constitution Class A Football Player of the Year and the Marietta Daily Journal Male Athlete of the Year.

Trammell committed to play baseball for Georgia Tech but as he entered his senior year on the diamond, Taylor began to garner serious attention from several Major League Baseball teams including the Boston Red Sox, Seattle Mariners, Pittsburg Pirates, Texas Rangers, Atlanta Braves, and Arizona Diamondbacks. Balancing his classwork and requirements on the field, Taylor would conclude his senior year batting .514 (.650 on base percentage) with nine home runs, 26 runs batted in, 25 walks, 45 runs scored, and 29/29 stolen bases. In the end, the Cincinnati Reds drafted Taylor in the 1st round of the 2016 MLB Draft on Thursday, June 9, 2016. The 35th overall pick, Taylor became the first MPCS alum to be drafted out of high school.

Teams were very excited about Taylor’s talent and abilities. “Very athletic kid, really, really good tools,” Reds senior director of amateur scouting Chris Buckley said. “Outstanding football player, good hitter, big strong guy, he’s got a chance to be a complete player. You love to get those kind of tough, athletic guys.”

Equally important, several scouts were impressed with Trammell’s character and maturity. From mentoring younger MPCS students to giving back to the community, Taylor is a true servant-leader off the field.

He was awarded the 2016 Ron Mulkey Eagle Award, the most coveted servant-leadership award. He made a tremendous impact on MPCS. “Great player; even better person,” states head baseball coach Kyle Reese. “Teammates love him and he is known for his high character. Cincinnati scored big!”

Through it all, Taylor has remained humble and grounded: “God is great and the power of prayer is real,” states Trammell. “I am truly blessed by this opportunity and for all the support from the MPCS family. I’m getting to play the game that I love. It’s just awesome.” W

SEVERAL SCOUTS WERE IMPRESSED WITH TRAMMELL’S CHARACTER AND MATURITY

MPC Sports Stats

Upon the completion of the 2016 winter and spring sports seasons, Eagles’ teams once again were ultra-competitive in their sports and nine student-athletes will compete at the college level:

• Varsity girls basketball State Elite 8 • Varsity wrestling Garret Harris Area Champion and #6 in State (8 wrestlers qualified for State) • Middle school swim 1st overall individual title • Middle school wrestling 1st Place Middle Weight • Varsity boys golf Area Champion and 3rd in State • Varsity boys tennis Area Champion and State Elite 8

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• Undefeated inaugural girls lacrosse season • Middle school boys golf Champion • Middle school baseball League Runner-up • Middle school girls track League 3rd Place • Middle school boys tennis Final Four • Middle school girls tennis Final Four • Equestrian Southeast Zone qualifier

• Allen Cater – Football / University of North Carolina • Zachary Kyzer – Baseball / Covenant College • Katie Larkin – Swimming / Towson University • Elizabeth Legg – Cheer / Georgia Southern University • Sara Margaret Locke – Swimming / Towson University • Jake McWhorter – Baseball / Reinhardt University • Matthew Norton – Baseball / Kennesaw State University • Taylor Trammell – Baseball / Georgia Tech / MLB Reds • Jolie Tucker – Cheer / Georgia Tech

On Campus STAFF PROFILE:

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Mrs. Claire Mozley Written by Mrs. Mickie Roberts, Business Services Center Associate

Honoring God, loving others, and walking in Truth. Claire Mozley is a true servant-leader who embodies the mission of MPCS. Always seen with a smile on her face and an encouraging word, Claire is a joy to be around.

Wife of 30 years to Michael and mother of 4 (Anna, Maggie, Luke, and Momo), Claire has been teaching and serving for most of her adult life. Born in Missouri and raised in Marietta, Georgia, she graduated from Auburn University with a B.S. degree in Spanish and Secondary Education. She has been teaching for a total of 19 years. Her teaching experience is varied, from elementary to middle to high school, public to private to homeschool, in the subjects of Spanish, Geography, and Bible. Señora Mozley, as her beloved students call her, has been teaching Lower School Spanish at MPCS for three years.

Although Claire was born to teach, she was called to missions. In 1999, she and her family moved to Ghana, West Africa to serve as missionaries. While in Ghana they hosted more than 50 short term mission teams, hosted many missionary interns, and helped plant churches all over the country. In addition, they led children’s outreach and a weekly Bible club in their home. Claire enjoyed mentoring women while her husband mentored pastors and leaders. God’s perfect plan and design for her life unfolded in Ghana as she was able to combine her ability to teach with her love of sharing the Gospel message.

How has her missionary experience impacted her teaching at MPCS? It has fostered an appreciation for cultural diversity that she embraces in the classroom. Claire states, “When we have opportunities to learn more about people different than us we learn to be flexible, understanding, and to value other opinions, foods, music, styles of beauty, etc. We learn that God’s truths are universal, but that his creativity and creation is as varied as the people he has placed all over the world.” Claire goes on to say that the school’s commitment to promoting diversity through “learning in every classroom, varied sports and artistic opportunities, yearly mission trips and multiple service projects” allows students, parents, faculty, and staff to experience God’s amazing and diverse world in practical and tangible ways.

Outside of the classroom, Claire continues kingdom work at MPCS. She helps lead the sixth-grade girls’ Bible study. She has also served on one of the high school summer mission trips to the Dominican Republic. This opportunity not only allowed her to get to know the high school students better, but also encouraged her through the amazing times of worship together and their open and honest discussions about how God is impacting their lives. W

We learn that God’s truths are universal

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On Campus

Haygood and Woods

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“Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another: What! You too? I thought I was the only one.” — C.S. Lewis

Written by Mrs. Christine Woods, MPCS Parent

The story of the friendship of Jake Haygood and Hampton Woods (rising sophomores) started at MPCS when Jake arrived in seventh grade. Both shared interests in band and robotics, and the young men forged a friendship. Neither Jake, nor his family, was prepared for the storm that was brewing inside of Jake’s body. Jake started having symptoms just before Christmas, and it quickly escalated into a life-threatening condition, causing Jake to miss half of seventh grade. “The only way we made it through was our trust in God and the amazing Mount Paran community. They were Jesus’ heart and hands to us during this time,” said Emily, Jake’s mother.

Hampton uniquely understood. By seventh grade, he had undergone over a dozen surgeries, including a liver transplant and was enrolled in a first-of-its-kind clinical research study.

Through his participation in this study, Hampton was asked to participate in iCan, International Children’s Advisory Network, and KIDS Georgia, Kids and families Impacting Disease Through Science. “I have always felt a desire to make a difference in the world. When I heard about iCan, I thought ‘This is it!’ I want to find solutions to problems through pediatric research, so that other kids might not have to go through the things I’ve had to endure.” Woods said.

an amazing opportunity to give kids a voice in medicine and allow me to use my skills to help others

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In eighth grade, Hampton co-authored a study on the importance of pediatric assent in clinical trials, presenting a poster at a conference in San Diego on this topic. Hampton knew Jake and his brother Sam would enjoy participating in both organizations and invited them to a meeting. It was there that Jake met Erika Tyberski, a Georgia Tech biomedical engineering graduate student. Erika had just created Anemocheck, a patient-operated, disposable, diagnostic test for anemia. When Erika mentioned the need for an app developer, Jake saw an opportunity to help. Since the age of nine when he received a book on Python, programming has been a passion of his. Jake completed the programming, and Anemocheck has been field tested in multiple African countries. “I felt compelled to join iCan because of my past issues, and it is an amazing opportunity to give kids a voice in medicine and allow me to use my skills to help others,” stated Haygood.

Jake and Hampton represented iCan at the Peds 2040 conference in Laguna Beach, California in January 2016. As conference invitees, they were asked to come up with a problem-solving idea.

Through a shared frustration with previous miscommunication during hospital admissions, the boys developed a device. Not only was it a viable concept, the boys built a working prototype. Hampton’s sister, Heidi (rising sixth-grader), rushed to make a video so the boys could enter their concept into the

Marco Rubio

conference’s start-up competition. Jake and Hampton won the popular vote for their medical device, beating out 24 other startups. They were the only kid-run company to win an award, and Haygood and Woods Co. was born.

Haygood and Woods Co.’s product uses highcapacity RFID technology to store patient data on a chip. A list of medications, conditions, and patient information can be stored on this chip using an RFID read/write device. Jake and Hampton hope the availability of this data on the wristband will allow first responders and hospital personnel to read a patient’s chart in an emergency, preventing life-threatening overdoses, drug interactions, reactions, and miscommunication.

This story of the ordinary friendship forged by two MPCS middle school boys in seventh grade was pre-determined by a God who loves to see beauty come from ashes. He is using these boys’ experiences to develop them into servant-leaders to benefit others for His glory. “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory.” Ephesians 3:20-21 W

PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE COMES TO MPCS

Written by Dr. David Tilley

There is no bigger day in presidential politics than Super Tuesday. After receiving a phone call from Geoff Duncan, an MPCS alumnus and a current member of the Georgia House of Representatives, inviting us to host Florida Senator Marco Rubio on our campus, the MPCS community went to work preparing the “stage” for a political rally for the Republican candidate the Saturday before the primary election. This event was held in the Catherine Steele Sewell Stadium on the morning of February 27, 2016.

According to campaign officials, approximately 3000 people joined the rally to hear from Senator Rubio. Up to that date, it was the largest rally of his campaign for president. It is a rare occasion for students to get to welcome a presidential candidate to their campus, and the MPCS community took advantage of the opportunity. Whether they were Rubio supporters or not, students came to see and hear a man who was vying for the most powerful position in the world. As shared by rising sixth-grader Galilea Szabo, “It was really cool and a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see, in person, someone I have seen on TV and the news. I thought to myself that Marco Rubio could one day be President or Vice President of the United States, and I was lucky enough to be able to hear him speak at my own school.”1 Senator Rubio is now out of the current election, but the excitement of hearing the candidate outline his personal story and the dreams and aspirations for what Reprinted from The Bridge, the social he calls, The New American Century, lives on. W 1

publication of the Marietta Country Club

The Hogle Investment

Written by Paula Deiters, Donor Relations and Stewardship Manager

On February 1, 2016, MPCS was honored to name the high school student commons area in Dozier Hall, Hogle Student Commons. This naming comes with a long standing relationship with the Hogle family. The family invested their trust in MPCS early on with their son, Sam ‘09. Sam has been blind since birth. He learned to maneuver his way through the school to locate classes and teachers just as easily as a seeing student. He excelled in his school work and successfully graduated and attended Kennesaw State University. He has recently achieved a Masters of Science Social Work degree at KSU. Upon graduation, Seth ‘11 entered Lee University where he received a Bachelors of Science degree in Mathematics and the prestigious Henry Crosby Scholarship. He went on to earn his Masters of Commerce degree in Finance from the University of Virginia. The foundation both young men receieved at MPCS has paid off.

The Hogle Student Commons is a place for study, meetings, planning, and comradery with friends. Just as MPCS was instrumental in the investment of Sam and Seth, the Hogle family chose to invest in the future of MPCS. We thank Greg and Suzy for their investment and trust in MPCS. W

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On Campus

Ten Days Atlanta

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Written by Cindy Gibbs, Assistant Director of Development, Alumni Relations

Tim Tebow

HEISMANS ON CAMPUS

Written by Dr. David Tilley

It’s not every day that a Heisman award winner is part of an MPCS activity.

It’s even more extraordinary when two participate within a month. Danny Wuerffel, 1996 Heisman Trophy winner, was a featured guest at the annual golf tournament sponsored by Eagle Backers on April 25, 2016. The former University of Florida quarterback donated a signed football and funds were raised to support his Christian foundation: Desire Street Ministries. Since leaving the game of football, Wuerffel has built this ministry to transform impoverished urban neighborhoods. We appreciate his support of MPC athletics and, more importantly, his continued commitment to Kingdom work!

Additionally, Tim Tebow, 2007 Heisman Trophy winner, came to the Hughes Gymnasium and spoke to our football families and friends on May, 20, 2016. This former University of Florida quarterback left no doubt that his strong faith in Christ has not wavered. He spoke directly and passionately about the scriptural admonition to do all things well and to give back to Jesus all the gifts and talents with which we have been blessed.

Tebow shared the powerful ways in which God used the simple idea of writing “John 3:16” in the eye black he wore when he played. He used that story to convey the biblical truth of the boy with the loaves and fish — that we are to bring to Christ all we have and leave the outcome to him. The 300+ crowd who heard the message, which was delivered with much humility and conviction, will never forget its impact. Our MPCS family was blessed to hear directly from one of the most committed followers of Christ in the public arena. May God continue to bless the ministries of Tim Tebow and Danny Wuerffel.

Alumni parent Kevin Rusk with Danny Wuerffel

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Erin Sparks ‘11 graduated from the University of Georgia in May 2015. She has joined staff with Ten Days Missions and Every Nation Campus (ENC) at Vanderbilt University. As part of Ten Days Missions, she leads short-term mission trips with campus ministries all over the world.

Remember God’s past faithfulness to believe for the future

In August of 2014, Andy and Amy King planted High Point Atlanta, an Every Nation Church in Kennesaw, with a passion to reach KSU students and the city of Atlanta with the gospel. This past month, Erin led a Ten Days Atlanta trip to KSU with a team of college students and campus missionaries from Chapel Hill, Orlando, and Jacksonville who gave up their spring break to serve High Point Atlanta and share the Gospel on campus.

At KSU, Erin shared her testimony of her first campus mission experience. “In June of 2011, I walked into Kennesaw State University (KSU) for the first time with a God test in hand. I had just graduated from high school, and I was about to share my faith with a complete stranger for the first time. I was terrified. I remember praying only that no one would smell the high school on me. My friend, Myssi, saw my wide eyes and pulled me aside. She encouraged me to remember God’s past faithfulness to believe for the future, and suddenly my fear grew dim.”

Erin continues, “When our team arrived on campus this spring at KSU, many wide eyes looked back at me.

It was so sweet to minister to students as they overcame fear, engaged people in conversations about the Gospel, and believed God to faithfully reveal Himself.”

Every Nation Campus held their first meeting that week and hosted 71 people and many signed up for connect groups. She states, “I’m blessed and honored W to serve in His kingdom advancement through campus ministry, church planting, and world missions.” W

Alumni

SEND US YOUR CLASS UPDATES To update your information, visit the alumni page on our website www.mtparanschool.com.

Be sure to stay up-to-date about the latest school and alumni information by joining the “Mount Paran Christian School Alumni” group on Facebook!

Let MPCS help you job network. Connect with us on LinkedIn!

Alumnus Josh ‘Ike’ Eisenberg ‘99 Congratulations to Josh ‘Ike’ Eisenberg and Rachel Eisenberg with the birth of their twins on April 3, 2016. Baby girl Arden Lane weighed 4lbs. 6 oz. and brother Beckett Wells weighed 5lbs. 1 oz.

Big brothers, Braden (8), Cade (6), and Anders (1) are excited about their new siblings.

Andrew Gentry ‘01 Andrew graduated from Berry College in 2005 with degrees in History and Public Speaking. He works in management with Walgreens.

Andrew and his wife Sara have three daughters: Alexis (7), Kaitlyn (6) and Emily (6). The Gentry family resides in Rome, Georgia.

Ben Mayhew ‘03 CPT Ben Mayhew ‘03, and his wife Jessa Mayhew currently reside in Louisville, KY. This will be the last stop on their military journey as Ben has decided to exit the military after nine years of service. They hope to stay in Louisville with their two children, Kage and Harper. Jessa owns a Louisville based organic and artisan skincare line called Soul Candy Skincare. Ben is currently stationed at Ft. Knox and works at the U.S. Army Human Resources Command as an assignments officer.

Kari Stinehour ‘06 Kari Stinehour graduated from Mount Paran in 2006 and obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Hospitality Management from Auburn University in 2009. She spent the beginning of her career climbing the corporate ladder and traveling abroad extensively – a life altering experience, which led her on a search to create a positive impact on the world through her work.

Kari is now the founder and editor of Rank & File magazine – a new interactive, digital publication that empowers and equips modern-day entrepreneurs to build and scale high-impact, for-purpose businesses capable of tackling the world’s biggest challenges. For more information about Rank & File magazine, please visit rankandfilemag.com.

Dr. Duncan Evans ‘08 Congratulations to Alumnus Duncan Evans for the completion of his Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Duncan completed his undergraduate studies in Exercise Science at Georgia College and State University in Milledgeville, Georgia and completed his doctorate at the University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida in May 2016. He will be doing a oneyear residency in Sports Medicine at ATI Physical Therapy in Greenville, SC starting in August 2016.

Megan Perry Booth ’09 Alumna Megan Perry Booth’09 and Drew Booth were married on April 17, 2016. Congratulations to Megan and Drew on their recent wedding. The happy couple reside in St. Petersburg, Florida. Both Megan and Drew work for Raymond James Trust where Megan is a Meeting Planner and Drew is a Technology Test Analyst.

Megan also provides part-time marketing assistance for a nutrition company.

Dr. Michael Gray ‘09 Congratulations to Alumnus Michael Gray for the completion of his Doctorate in Physical Therapy. Dr. Gray gradu-

Dr. Duncan Evans ‘08 and Dr. Michael Gray ‘09 both completed their doctorates in Physical Therapy from the University of Florida in May.

ated from the University of Florida in May 2016. Michael will be completing his residency work in the Atlanta area.

Kirby Alls ’10 Congratulations to Kirby Alls and Harlie Makayla Alls on their recent fall wedding on October 24, 2015. Kirby graduated with a Sports Management degree and currently works with Acworth Parks and Recreation. The couple reside in Dallas, GA. Drew Anderson ‘11 In 2015, Drew graduated from the University of Georgia, with honors, for a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. At UGA, he worked for his local church, serving as president of a national Christian fraternity, BYX, and performed research on Alzheimer’s disease. Recently, Drew completed his first year at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University where he is pursuing a Medical Doctorate in Anesthesiology.

This summer he will be researching vasoactive peptides in inflammatory disease states such as Sickle Cell Disease as he prepares for his second year of medical school. Drew and fiance, Bre, are planning for a December 2016 wedding.

Ameen Price-Burnett ‘11 Ameen graduated from the University of Alabama in May of 2015 with a Bachelor of Arts in Musical Theatre and Dance.

In June 2015, a piece of his choreography was selected for the Young Choreographer’s Festival in New York City.

Ameen was one of eleven choreographers from around the country presenting at Symphony Space Theatre. In February 2016, he accepted a contract with Norwegian Cruise Lines as a production dancer on the Norwegian Pearl, with an itinerary of Miami to Central America from March to November.

Ameen expressed, “I am very thankful for everything that I learned during my time at MPCS and that I continue to take all of the teachings with me. I am also grateful for the continued support from all the performing arts faculty.”

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Alumni

MPCS Alumni: Living Out the Mission Alumni Christian Author Influencing Generations Written by Mrs. Cindy Gibbs

Congratulations to Alumna Annie F. Downs ‘98 for the release of her newest book titled Looking for Lovely. Annie shares personal stories, biblical truth, and examples of how others have courageously walked the path God paved for their lives by remembering all God has done, loving what was right in front of them, and seeing God in the everyday—whether that be nature, friends, or the face they see in the mirror. Annie shares about her latest book: “I want you to take every step of your life with excitement for where you are headed. And I want you to feel beautiful and confident as you do.”

Annie F. Downs ‘98 is an author, speaker, and blogger based in Nashville, Tennessee. Flawed but funny, she uses her writing to highlight the everyday goodness of a real and present God. While she loves writing books, blogs, and magazine articles, she also enjoys speaking to young women, college students, and adults. Annie is also the author of Let’s All Be Brave, a book for men and women about the power we each have to make a difference. She also has two books for girls and women: Perfectly Unique, a spiritual growth book, and Speak Love, a challenge on how to use words to positively impact the world. W

Elizabeth Chkoreff ‘03 Congratulations to Elizabeth Chkoreff ’03, who will be graduating from Kennesaw State University in July 2016 with a double major in integrative studies and teaching with a focus in middle school reading and social studies. She will be graduating with honors in SCLA society.

Elizabeth shares about her journey: “I attended Mount Paran from threeyear-old mothers’ morning out. I am finally finishing the good race after 10 years in school. My twins, Micah and Gabriel, were my inspiration for graduating. In 2005 I spent some time traveling abroad for design credits and worked several internships. I am homeschooling my sons and I recently started my own graphic interior design business. Additionally, I continue to stay involved with my dad’s discipleship ministry, International School of the Bible, by sharing my testimony about how to overcome life’s obstacles.”

Will Thompson ‘07 Congratulations MPCS alumnus and Wheaton College graduate Will Thompson and bride, Kimberly, on their October 16, 2015 wedding. During the Chicago wedding ceremony, the couple shared in the washing of each other’s feet after the model of Christ. The happy couple are serving together in full time ministry in Japan where Will serves on staff with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and utilizes the game of baseball to further the gospel in this area. Kimberly ministers through her teaching at the Christian Academy.

Here is a verse that Will shares in his monthly newsletter; “And He said to them, ‘The harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. Therefore PRAY earnestly to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.’” Luke 10:2 Ben Garrett ‘09 In June 2016, Alumnus Ben Garrett ’09 graduates from the University of Chicago Divinity School with his Masters in Divinity. Ben shares he is passionate about all things connected with community development. During his time at the university, Ben has worked with Chicago-area churches to increase the impact within their own neighborhoods. He hopes to continue this work as a non-profit consultant, building capacity with churches that seek to make their neighborhoods look more like The Kingdom. Ben is married to Michelle, and while they have enjoyed their time in Chicago, they are aiming to return to the sunny (warmer) South.

Megan Sheasby Downer ‘09 On September 26, 2015, after five years of dating, Megan Sheasby married Richard Downer. She shares, “We happily live in Marietta in a house that we bought and have been fixing up and making our own.” At the beginning of the year she started a new nonprofit ministry called The Bigger Picture Project, with the mission of awakening people to the reality that God has called them to His bigger picture, challenging them to live in it, and providing ways to do so. She says, “This is such a season of new things (new marriage, new house, new ministry, and new job for Richard), but the Lord is so clearly in each of them. We are blessed.”

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Impacting Her Alma Mater and Community

ALUMNI ARE USING THEIR CHRISTIAN FAITH AND SERVANTLEADERSHIP TO IMPACT COMMUNITIES AND THE WORLD

Josh Jeans ‘11 Josh graduated from Vanderbilt University in May 2015 with a major in Human and Organizational Development and a minor in Spanish. He has joined staff with the Navigators as a campus minister at Vanderbilt University and Lipscomb University. He is currently leading a freshman Bible study to disciple seven young men and teaches on the subject of leadership development.

“The Lord has been so faithful to me and to His ministry of reconciliation here in Nashville. We are seeing explosive growth among our students. This year we have been digging into the Word and tackling a few big questions such as, ‘What does it look like for me to trust God with my whole life?’ and ‘Where is the intersection of race and faith and how can we push into a gospel-centered understanding and celebration of diversity?’”

Additionally, Josh has been part of the first official class with Covenant Theological Seminary, Nashville campus, and has recently made the decision to begin his studies to earn his Masters in Theological Studies.

Written by Mrs. Cindy Gibbs

As a MPCS senior in 2012, Jennifer Torp took Mr. Brad Smith’s Criminalistics class, which was a turning point that influenced her college path at the University of Mississippi. In December 2015, she graduated from Ole Miss with a major in Criminal Justice and a minor in Psychology. During the summer of 2015, Jennifer participated in a 400hour internship program with the Marietta Police Department. Just weeks after her college graduation, MPD hired her as a Police Cyber Specialist where she is currently serving.

In April 2016, Jennifer returned to the MPCS campus to participate in the Marietta Police Department’s “Fatal Decision” exercise and presentation. The MPD Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) Unit conducted their 11th Annual Fatal Decision exercise at Mount Paran Christian School, presenting a re-enactment of a fatal car crash to the high school community. Jennifer shared that she knows much of her success came from the strong foundation she received while at MPCS saying, “I am grateful for my educational experiences that have opened doors for me to work with an organization that helps young people think more seriously about their decisions, which ultimately can saves lives.” W

Luke Burton ’12 Congratulations to Luke Burton, Davidson College senior, for being the recipient of the prestigious Tommy Peters Award for athletics and leadership. This prestigious award was presented in April 2016 to the male athlete that exhibits the Davidson spirit in athletic competition and campus leadership. The Tommy Peters Award was established in memory of a member of the Class of 1945 who gave his life in World War II. Burton had an outstanding four-year swimming career at Davidson, holding school records in eight different events and scoring in all four conference championships. As a senior, he led the Davidson men with 46 individual points and helped two relay teams achieve top-five showings at the 2016 Atlantic 10 Championships. He holds the Atlantic 10 record in the 200 backstroke. Burton will cap off his Wildcat career swimming in the 2016 Olympic Trials in June where he qualified this past summer at the Sectional Championship.

Matthew Brague ’15 This summer Matthew Brague, rising sophomore at Duke University, is serving in Kimana, Kenya. Matthew shares, “I have been blessed with the opportunity to serve as an academic tutor and mentor for ten weeks at Lenkai Christian School, in partnership with Just One Africa, through the DukeEngage Program. I am serving alongside my friends Sage E. Garcia and Brian Grasso, and am so thankful for this incredible opportunity. Lots of prayer and preparation have gone into this trip and I cannot thank God enough for this wonderful blessing; please be praying throughout the summer for the community! Also, please take a look at Just One Africa on Facebook to learn more about the organization and the amazing work they’re doing!”

Right: Fatal Decision actors included Avery Reeves, Class of 2017, and Jennifer Torp ‘12

2016 Homecoming and Alumni Dinner SAVE THE DATE: Friday, October 21, 2016

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Achievements

SENIOR COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES

Choosing Christian College Written by Dr. Trici Holmes, College Counselor

Senior Amber Jogie was able to find her best college fit as she sought after an educational environment that would challenge her academically and also provide her with the opportunity to continue her passion for servant-leadership.

Out of many school choices, she plans to attend Gordon College to study pre-medicine.

While at MPCS, Amber has consistently challenged herself through the high school curriculum. She has earned countless academic recognitions and has demonstrated impeccable leadership qualities. Amber served as SGA President, was named 2015 Homecoming Queen, and was the Executive President of the MPCS Chick-fil-A Leadership Academy. Her character, tenacity, ability to help others, and her love for Christ has empowered her to want to make a difference in society.

Students like Amber view college as an opportunity to expand on the Christian foundation they experienced at MPCS — one which has pushed them to a higher calling. Amber is excited to attend Gordon where she states, “When I went to Gordon, I finally had a God-feeling and I knew that’s where I would call home for the next four years.” She sees college as a chance to develop as a future leader. She explains, “I chose Gordon because God chose it for me.”

She knows that in this environment, she can be challenged academically while expounding on her faith and walk with Christ. W

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Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College American University Appalachian State University Arcadia University* Armstrong State University Asbury University Auburn University* Augusta University Baylor University* Belmont University* Berry College* Boston University Clemson University* Coastal Carolina University* College of William and Mary Cornell University Covenant College*^ Emory University Flagler College Florida State University* Furman University* George Washington University Georgia College Georgia Highlands College Georgia Institute of Technology^ Georgia Perimeter College Georgia Southern University^ Gordon College High Point University* Jacksonville State University* Kennesaw State University Lee University* Louisiana State University Loyola University* Massachusetts Institute of Technology Mercer University* Middle Tennessee State University Mississippi State University* Montclair State University Muhlenberg College^ Ohio State University Pace University* Pennsylvania State University Point Park University Point University Presbyterian College* Purdue University Reinhardt University Rider University* Roosevelt University^ Samford University* Savannah College of Art and Design Shorter University* Texas Christian University*^

Texas State University* Toccoa Falls College* Towson University^ Trident Technical College University of Alabama at Birmingham* University of Alabama* University of Alabama, Huntsville* University of California, Berkley University of California, Los Angeles University of California, San Diego

The Class of 2016 has been accepted to some of the nation’s finest colleges and universities. Seniors have earned more than $5.2 million in academic scholarships. In addition, 84% of seniors are eligible for the HOPE Scholarship and 67% of students are eligible for Zell Miller Scholarship funds.

University of California, Davis* University of Florida University of Georgia* (30 acceptances) University of Kentucky University of Michigan University of Mississippi* University of New Hampshire* University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill*^ University of North Georgia University of North Texas University of South Carolina* University of South Florida University of Tampa* University of Tennessee, Chattanooga* University of Tennessee, Knoxville* University of Vermont University of West Georgia Virginia Wesleyan College* Wake Forest University Wofford College* Worchester Polytechnic Institute Wright State University* Young Harris College* * Denotes Academic Scholarships ^ Denotes College Athletes or Arts Scholarships

Special Recognition American Legion School Award Amber Jogie

Servant-Leadership Awards Beta Club Bree Brown

US Army Reserve Student-Athlete Award Katherine Larkin Brett Reel

Chick-fil-A Leader Academy Katie Miller Emma Kate Wilson

Academic Recognition PAGE STAR Student Ochiba Attah

Stephen Werner Sportsmanship Scholarships Bree Brown Joseph D’Ambola Salutatorian Cassidy Ray

Prudential Spirit of Community Service Waverly Gilcrease REACH Abby Richardson SGA Sara Kathryne Brumbelow

Comcast Leaders and Achievers Joseph Rainey French Club Rachael Duncan French National Honor Society Makayla Davis

Peer Mentoring Initiative Abby Meyer Harrison Meyer

Valedictorian Ochiba Attah

Arts Recognition All State Band Ragan McCoy All State Chorus Harrison Meyer Cassidy Ray Georgia All State Art Symposium Abby Richardson National Art Honor Society Abby Richardson Scholastic Art Competition Caroline DeMent

Salutatorian Cassidy Ray will attend Georgia Tech and Valedictorian Ochiba Attah will attend MIT.

Athletic Recognition Marietta Daily Journal Scholar Athletes Joon Choi Ashley Cook Madison Darling Charlotte Dayton Megan Dender Anna Fisher Sam Fulkerson Kyle Gaither Will Hermanson Jack Lee Alex McLarty Abby Meyer Jacob Niswonger Joseph Rainey Brett, Reel Wells Settlemyer Jolie Tucker Wendy’s Heisman High School Scholarship Charlotte Dayton Taylor Trammell

Special Awards AJC Cup Award Bree Brown MPCS School Spirit Award Amber Jogie Ron Mulkey Eagle Award Amber Jogie Joseph Rainey Taylor Trammell

Academic Scholarships Kristen Baars Christopher Bilson Bree Brown Sara Kathryne Brumbelow Jackson Calhoun Chloe Callis Courtney Cumberland Makayla Davis Rachel Duncan Scott Dyson Caroline Ethridge Anna Fisher Waverly Gilcrease Beau Harmon Garret Harris

Delaney Hutchinson Chris Jang Graham Kington Harrison Kossover Ragan McCoy Alec McLarty Ashli Melder Jacob Niswonger Thomas Paschal Emily Phipps Ethan Pugh Joseph Rainey Virginia Ramsey Nicole Selman Jonathon Stevenson Jolie Tucker Elizabeth Weaver Amanda White Grayson Woodruff Hannah Ziegele

Athletic Scholarships Allen Cater Zachary Kyzer Katherine Larkin Elizabeth Legg Sarah Margaret Locke Jake McWhorter Taylor Trammell Jolie Tucker

WINGSPAN | Summer 2016

39

The WINGSPAN Magazine

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PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE

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MARIETTA, GA PERMIT NO. 172

...a place where faith and intellect grow as one 1275 Stanley Road

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Kennesaw, Georgia 30152

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