LIONS' PRIDE 2020-2022

Dear Lion Families,

We did it—by God’s great strength and infinite wisdom— we made it through a global pandemic! As I reflect over the thousands of excruciating decisions that we were required to make, I clearly see God’s hands, gently leading and navigating the school board, our Administration, and myself, to bring us safely to the other side of the struggle and land us where we are today. COVID left scars and wreckage in its path for so many. How immeasurably blessed MVCA is to proclaim that during unprecedented times, He brought us through with an unprecedented excellent report.

How great and marvelous is our God! How humbled we are as a community to witness and feel His favor.

Currently, we are financially sound, experiencing steady growth in enrollment, and anticipating exciting adventures through expansion plans.

As we forge ahead, I am confident that God will continue to guide MVCA as we reverence His ultimate authority. It is time to encourage one another, embrace God’s plan for our future, and be sensitive to what He is asking each of us to do to accomplish His purpose.

His word gives us instructions for this next season: Galatians 6:9- “And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap if we do not give up.”

Colossians 3:23- “Whatever you do, work heartily as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive your inheritance.”

With one voice, one proverbial Roar, let us say, “Yes, LordYou have called us, and we will answer. Use us mightily to impact this world for Christ!”

HOMECOMING

Normal HOCO festivities felt the effects of COVID as the student dance was cancelled and limitations on fans and spectators for the football game were imposed by local agencies. A homecoming court was able to chosen and MVCA celebrated with them and their immediate family members after the game. Although we greatly missed our school-wide tailgate party, we still counted our blessings and were thankful for the face-to-face school days that our lions were able to participate in. We may not have been together in all the ways we were used to, but we held on to hope that we would celebrate double the next year!

The Beasley’s Fall Bash event happened on a smaller scale as we were prohibited from offering hayrides and a pumpkin patch, but what we could offer was socially distanced deliciousness in prepackaged units. Love is felt in numerous ways, and our staff definitely felt hugs in their cups of mulled cider and warm hearts as they enjoyed the fall flavored treats.

Peter and the Starcatcher is a Tony-winning play that tells the story of how a miserable orphan boy becomes the legendary Peter Pan.

The High School players worked especially hard to get this production to the stage amidst the hurdles of the pandemic. Quarantines, show date changes, and extreme audience limitations were blows that could not squash their zeal and effort.

Nearly 2 months after the original posted show dates, we were finally able to tape a live performance with family members in attendance. Shortly thereafter, we also offered the inaugural Dinner Theatre experience. Paying careful attention to guidelines and operating under restaurant restrictions, guests safely dined and enjoyed a hybrid production that included viewing the taped show as well as a few distance friendly live scenes.

Unprecedented times brought out unprecedented unity and ultimately unprecedented showmanship!

Warm hugs and some light pyrotechnics delighted the audience of our Middle School Musical. Lighter COVID restrictions enabled us to open to a slightly large audience by again using restaurant protocols and selling table seating to families. Concessions were delivered car hop style to minimize lines and moving around the theatre. Our Middle School players were able to melt hearts in 4 performances and God even sent fresh snow to enhance the outdoor atmosphere as the indoor vibe was on point and over- the-top entertaining!

View the trailer here

Wrapping up the show season, our Theatre department undoubtedly proved that There’s NO Place like MVCA! What an incredible show this was! Costumes, make up, and showmanship sent audiences over the rainbow in sheer delight! With COVID effects lingering after a year, we were able to resume normal theatre seating with restrictions on capacity and kept patrons safe by offering concession treats delivery.

“Encore and Bravo!” to every lion player, patron, and helping hand that insisted on finding a way to provide a safe outlet for our students to shine on stage!

View the trailer here

by Jill Beasley

The Lion Cafe Coffee Bar opened for business in August 2020. A coffee bar ran BY the students FOR the students had been a long time goal of mine. Only God could have orchestrated the timing of when this endeavor finally made it to fruition. Why would God allow this life skills addition to come on line at this point in time?

COVID restrictions and quarantine regulations made normal operations intricate at best. Students and staff needed this fun escape and it quickly became known as “the COVID mood

enhancer.” At a time when nothing was certain, everything was changing, and events were being cancelled in an instant, this was one thing that made life just a little sweeter.

coffees. Once restrictions became lighter, we were able to add students for limited times in closer range to learn the ropes. Eventually, the Class of 2021 took over and ran the bar during lunch and before school. Several of those students went on to work in their college coffee shop.

The next school year, 2021-22 there were 27 students that became trained and ran the bar with student managers. Currently, we have added a new Business Entrepreneur Class and the scope of this idea has come full circle.

Over the course of this venture we have been the recipient of 2 major donations. Former Board member and parent, Paul Schacht with the Duracell Corporation, donated a fully automated commercial espresso machine that increased productivity and improved our coffee game. The most recent blessing was a dual portofilter commercial machine that allows for consistency and raises the bar for our hand crafted specialty coffees. This Italian machine was donated by MVCA Parents, Clark and Amanda Wheeler, owners of Wholy Beans Coffee Shop in New Richmond.

Mrs. Wheeler is also a professional coffee roaster and has further enabled us to have our own private label coffee bean crafted just for the Lions! Grab a bag and support your school at mvca-oh.com/lioncafe.

The best way for this to operate was to have a mom-daughter duo kick it off. Since Jillian [Class of 2021] and I lived in the same house, we could safely be closer than 6 feet apart and not cause a ripple effect of others getting quarantined.

Students watched from a distance as we crafted

Old lions in “The Pack” remember when we filled up trailers, loads of equipment, massive supplies, and hauled all of it to a rental field to celebrate our annual Homecoming. This year, new and old lions alike, enjoyed our Tailgate Party on our very own expanded campus and state-ofthe-art field! Grilled grub, bouncy houses, a ferociously fought football game, and topped with a new King and Queen made this night one to remember for our entire community. Blessings overflowed as our hearts burst with thanks that this day had finally arrived.

“His miracles are staggering, his wonders are surprising. His kingdom lasts and lasts, his sovereign rule goes on forever.” -Daniel 4:3 MSG

God has preserved MVCA and continues to bless His school with unmerited favor and good gifts. What a blessing to witness His provision!

Fall Bash creates pause on our busy campus to ensure that every lion feels loved and appreciated. The campus was moving as the hayrides rolled around the grounds dropping off excited little lions into our very own mini pumpkin patch. Inside Connections Café, staff and teachers munched away on fall-themed treats and custom-built lunches. Middle schoolers hit the hot chocolate bar and then grabbed a sweet treat and popcorn. Thank you, Beasley family, Siler Excavation, and PTO for making this day so fabulous for every lion.

we are family

miami valley christian academy dinner & auction

This year we celebrated 70’s style at our own venue on campus! Founders Hall hosted the “We Are Family” Annual Auction and welcomed all the groovy guys and chicks to bid and donate to support the Academy’s largest fundraiser. Guests played Family Feud and drove up the donations with laughs and good times.  A round of disco fever ended the evening’s celebration for another winning night of supporting MVCA.

For the first time ever...Preschool Grandparents came to campus in their pajamas with their own little lions to enjoy milk and cookies, sing-a-longs, and a bedtime story with Judah, the Lion! It was a packed out house full of giggles, laughs, and snuggles. This was the making of a new tradition that will be loved and enjoyed by many more generations of lions.

Our annual dinner theatre, White Christ mas, was a stunning performance full of song and dance! Our students worked with a professional choreographer to learn how to tap dance for this production. Thank you to our Fine Arts Boosters for providing this opportunity for our students!

The audience enjoyed the Broadway feel of this show as well as 2 nights of delightful dinner and one evening of hot cocoa and cookies! The typical 2 performances were not enough this year, ticket demand was so high that a 3rd performance was added! For the 2022-2023 school year out annual dinner theatre will be back, but with even more performances!

The Middle School Musical, Aladdin, was a historical moment for MVCA Theatre! Thanks to an extremely generous donor, 10 of our middle school actors were able to FLY on stage! Our students and parents worked with a professional from ZFX, the same company used by the Broadway show Wicked, to install equipment and learn how to fly safely!

Seeing Jasmine and Aladdin fly on the magic carpet was incredible and showed us what Founders Hall is capable of as a performance venue. We are excited to see where God leads us next and how we can help our students honor the gifts He has given them.

Our High School Musical, Beauty and the Beast was a SHOW STOPPING weekend! From sold out shows, to the professional level vo cals, and the absolutely stunning costumes.

Our high school stu dents, directors, and parent volunteers worked so hard to bring this show to life. Our students’ favorite part of this show was sharing it with the audience, especially all the little princes and princesses that love this classic story.

It was sad to say goodbye to many senior theatre stu dents and the end of this show’s run. We are proud of all our stu dents’ accomplish ments and are ex cited to continue to help our younger students to grow their God given talents, learn in valuable leader ship skills, and work together to bring Him glory!

students ON STAGE

LOWER SCHOOL CHRISTMAS SHOWS

SCHOOL

Our Christmas Shows at MVCA showcase all of our lower school students; Kindergarten, 1st grade, 2nd & 3rd grades, and 4th & 5th grades. Our students are given the opportunity to grow their God-given gifts in musical, speaking, or acting roles on stage; The best part is seeing how they learn to use those gifts to Honor and Glorify God! These shows are amazing stepping stones for our students as they advance and move into all areas of the arts within MVCA.

The High School Jazz Band participated in an adjudicated performance in May 2022. They performed two Jazz songs with an advanced level of difficulty and received 1st place as well as the highest rating of Superior! Senior Landon Croswell performed 3 solos within the performance and received the Best Overall Soloist Award!

Drama Camp is an MVCA favorite for our 3rd through 9th grade students! Drama camp allows our students to hone their musical and artistic talents as they learn and performance a musical in 1 week! One of our favorite things about drama camp are the High School students that volunteer their time as counselors. This year, over 2 weeks of camp, we had 20 high school counselors’ mentor our younger students as they prepared for the performance of: School House Rock, LIVE Jr.

By Scott Springer

Ohio’s top high school girls basketball rebounder plays at a Division IV school in Newtown, a small village that sits between Fairfax and Anderson Township. Going into Wednesday night’s home game with Immaculate Conception, Miami Valley Christian Academy senior Melody Arnett was averaging 23.2 rebounds per contest.

She outdid her average in the season finale by finishing with 29 rebounds. Arnett added 17 points but the Lions fell short 4037. That breaks the previous Ohio record for a single season by the appropriately named Peggy Hoops of Hamlin Patrick Henry.

Hoops had 527 in the 1986-1987 season before Arnett was born. Arnett finishes her senior season with 540. Needing 17 for the game, she was at 7 at halftime but collected the crowning carom late in the fourth quarter.

Making the occasion a little brighter was that it was her 18th birthday.

Blessed with a 6-foot-5 frame, Arnett now has had 23 consecutive double-doubles (points, rebounds) this season, which would be every game. She had 14 double-doubles as a junior in 16 appearances, 11 as a sophomore and two as a freshman for Miami Valley Christian Academy.

In a recent loss to Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy, Arnett again nearly pulled off the triple-double with 33 points, 31 rebounds and 9 blocks, all career highs. On Jan. 27 against Clermont Northeastern, she again came close with 23 points, 30 rebounds and 9 blocks.

“I’ve always been told I’d be a good rebounder,” Arnett said. “This year I focused more on trying to track the ball and my conditioning.”

It’s paid off as MVCA coach Kristin Moser has been able to play Arnett all 32 minutes if needed. She’s gone from being admittedly clumsy as a freshman to being able to run the floor and control some Lions’ games.

She’s been a work in progress averaging 11.3 points and 11.7 rebounds as a sophomore to 14.9 points and 17.8 rebounds as a junior. She’s just

under 20 points per game and 23 boards as her senior season is now complete.

Moser is in her second year coaching Arnett and credits improved footwork for making MVCA’s No. 44 such an effective player.

“You don’t think about footwork and rebounding,” Moser said. “She worked really hard last year and over the summer. She came in this year, No. 1, with better conditioning and No. 2, with her footwork down. She’s just been unstoppable since.”

Her height comes from her father’s side. He also gave his daughter wise advice. “My dad told me effort and attitude are the only two things you can control,” Arnett said. “Once you get those two things down, the rest of it will just fall into play.”

Arnett begs to differ from those that think it’s easy for her to just stand and score due to her height. Her father’s advice comes in handy when she hears inconsiderate catcalls about her size. She’s even heard coaches say, “Just go in and foul No. 44!”.

The mental game is as tough as the physical game when you’ve been taller than your classmates most of your life. There were some times when Arnett grew as much as eight inches in a year. Plus, with a pleasant personality, it’s tough to flip a switch to combat teams flailing at her all game.

Most games she’s surrounded by multiple defenders. “People are hitting you 24/7 (slaps her hands),” Arnett said. “It’s a lot of hard work and determination to actually get those rebounds. I’ve definitely worked on my perseverance these past four years.”

Said Moser, “They like to put two or three people on her. They climb her like a jungle gym sometimes.”

Arnett started playing basketball in third grade to please her father. Eventually, she came to enjoy the game and has now put up numbers that could land her in the OHSAA career record book.

Many family members were on hand for MVCA’s Senior Night in late January.. Though the Lions lost 45-35 to CNE, both teams were applauded at the end and Arnett was summoned to a curtain call photo with her friends and relatives. Wednesday’s game with Immaculate Conception was a make-up from the regular season which allowed her to seek the Ohio record.

Though she ferociously swats shots away during a game, those same arms are there to embrace friends and foes afterward. She often walks off the court with her arms around a couple of teammates.

Though her stats are eye-popping, she said she could do more. Occasionally in the paint, she’ll pass the ball

to another teammate when the better option may be to shoot. “You have to remember it’s a team game,” Arnett said. “It’s not all about one player.”

Moser said Arnett deals with the double- and triple-teams by knowing she’s taking all of the pressure and allowing her teammates to be open. The coach also notices things that some officials miss.

“A lot of the stuff that happens doesn’t happen high enough for a ref to see it,” Moser said. “The shenanigans and dirty pool happen in a place where it can’t be readily seen. She takes a lot of beating that never gets noticed.”

She’s also cerebral, hoping to major in biology in college. In addition to making string music on the court, she plays the trumpet in the school band and helps out with MVCA stage productions.

To be fair, the Division IV game is not as competitive as Ohio’s upper divisions nor the AAU competition Arnett saw this summer with the Cincy Shock. However, her coach believes Arnett can step it up when needed.

“We’re one of the smallest Division IV schools but when we’re playing Division IIs and IIIs, she holds her own,” Moser said. “We haven’t had a chance to go against Division I this year. But, she’s got the fundamental foundation down for what she needs to do. Every time she sees tough competition, she steps up to it.”

Arnett would like to play in college, but her destination has not yet been determined. Thus far, her most serious interest has come from Central State, an NCAA Division II program in Wilberforce, Ohio.

“Any opportunity would really be a blessing,” Arnett said.

Fall Kiersten Kroger

Caleb Theisens Noah Kroger Adrian Hart Winter Jackson Burke JackSpringSandul

Robert, Treva, Nora and Noble

Before coming to Miami Valley Christian Academy, we home-schooled our children. There are many blessings and wonderful aspects of this type of schooling, but we thought our oldest child would benefit from a more rigorous curriculum than what we were providing.

For us, selecting a new school was about more than academics. We would be trusting others to help raise and disciple our children. We knew a school setting couldn’t replicate the homeschool approach, but we still wanted our children to benefit from the core reasons we chose homeschool – a Christ-centered education, Christians living a faithful witness before them, and plenty of time to just be a kid.

WELOVE

OUR S C HOO

In addition to these central tenets, we had many other considerations. From practical matters like travel dis tance, to spiritual considerations like understanding and application of Scripture, to personal preferences like extra-curricular options, school amenities and such, the list was long! Finding a school seemed a daunting task and we thought it unlikely that one school could meet all of our needs.

We researched and talked with more than a dozen schools before narrowing the list to a few schools for indepth interviews and visits. From start, we could see a marked difference between MVCA and other schools. In most visits, we had to probe to determine if and how the school centered itself around Christ. At MVCA, it was just the opposite.

Through each person we talked to, faculty, staff and other families, examples of the school’s focus on Christ were mentioned. In some cases, easy for us to see. On a tour through one of the class rooms, the teacher explained the activity the students were working on. They were writing letters to graduating seniors including a Bible verse that would encourage them.

Added to all this, the genuine love for the students, and pursuit of excellence in all aspects – from sports, to academics, to discipleship – each of these examples made an impression on our family. We enrolled our children at MVCA!

We’re going into our third year and it has been such a joy. When we visited the school, we heard about what made MVCA a special place, but since becoming part of the school we’ve been able to personally experience being part of the “pride.”

We set out to find a school that would meet as many of our criteria as possible. Never did we imagine that God would provide for us a school like MVCA that “checked all the boxes” and more!

THE HALL

John, Shayna and Riley

LOur family decided to make the change from a pub lic school to Miami Valley Christian Academy for the 2021-22 school year. Our daughter, Riley, was going to be entering into 5th grade. We began to explore private Christian schools throughout the city and after a few inter views, lots of prayers and a little research, we ended up at MVCA and we could not be happier. Riley is thriving in so many ways – she has grown so much spiritually, personally and aca demically.

At Miami Valley Christian Academy there is a very strong sense of community between all families, students and the staff. We have felt ex tremely welcome as a new family! The Academy is constantly sending out prayer groups to be a part of, volunteer opportunities, Grandparent involve ment, etc. Our family has joined various committees and groups to serve and get to know others. We are greatly involved in the Athletic Boosters program and have enjoyed getting to know other athlete families.

Riley has received individualized attention from the teachers and is continuously pushed and challenged to reach her full potential with MVCA’s higher academic standards. With the small class sizes, the students are recognized as unique individuals and can receive one-on-one attention. The subjects that Riley struggled with at her previous school are now some of her best. She has even made the Honor Roll each quarter thus far!

During our interviews with other schools, what set MVCA apart the most were the clear value systems. The Academy is extremely mission driven which was impor tant for our family. The entire faculty shares in the same moral values taught in our home. Each day the students start with reading the Bible and end the week with Chapel. The entire curriculum stems from the Truth about God’s Word and it is used as a foundation for all subjects – especially including history and science. Riley’s faith has deepened by inte grating that with her studies.

MVCA puts a very heavy focus on life outside of the classroom and teaches the students the importance of serving and character development, starting at elemen tary age all the way through young-adult years. The Academy recognizes that all students have different skills and provides several opportunities to develop those talents. There are a variety of extra-curricular activities, programs athletics and volunteer op portunities to give back to the community. Riley plays basketball for the school and plans to play volleyball in the fall. She was also able to be a part of her first musical in the Christmas play and has gained experience in the arts she wouldn’t have had elsewhere.

We could not be more pleased with our decision to attend Miami Valley Christian Academy! We have made friends with other families and know that Riley is sur rounded by positive influences with her peers. MVCA has encouraged develop ment in all areas of Riley’s life and our family is beyond blessed to be here – we are proud Lions!

THE REUSS

George, Sarah, and Ben

My name is George Reuss and I am a proud father of two MVCA students, Sarah and Ben. Seemingly not so long ago, we were searching for a Christian based school that was Christ centered, with a staff that was committed to their teaching from a Christian perspective. One day during the search for school possibilities, we came across a little school in Newtown called Miami Valley Christian Academy (MVCA). At that point in time, we were unfamiliar with MVCA and sought-after reviews of this school. After reading many positive reviews, we decided to attend the MVCA Open House in Feb ruary that year. Unbeknownst to me, a wonderful experience and adventure for both Sarah and Ben would just begin.

During our initial visit to the MVCA Open House in February that year, we were met by a very kind and hospitable host named Paige McElfresh. Paige ex uded an unmistakable passion for the Lord and MVCA, for which she serves. We were given a tour of the school and eagerly listened to all the wonderful stories Paige offered. At this point my spirit was overwhelmed by the promises of such a find! Later that evening I asked, Lord, is this the school for Sarah and Ben? The Lord spoke to my spirit and said YES! Within days of our initial visit, we signed up Sarah for Kindergarten and the year following, Ben for preschool.

Throughout the school years at MVCA, Sarah and Ben have been blessed with teachers that have a true passion for Christ! Over the years and from time to time when issues arose, in Sarah and Ben’s world, I experienced teachers tak ing time to get involved and pray with my children, for their specific concerns and needs! How awesome is that! It is with great comfort to know that MVCA staffs their school with professionally educated Christian teachers, who truly care about their students. Even during times of disciplining, it has been my experience that teachers handle each situation with biblical influences, ending with positive resolutions. Every year I have heard the words “I have a new favorite teacher this year dad”! However, every once in a while, I ask them both “who is your favorite teacher of all time?” and so far they have always stated “Mrs. B. from the 3rd grade class”, followed by a close 2nd with Mrs. McGill from the 4th grade class. Some of the kids most memorable experiences include being in Mrs.’ B’s class reciting in unison before a test; “just try your best and let God do the rest! Another favorite experience would be the 2 day trip to the Shawnee State Park with Mrs. McGill, what a treat! Personally, I enjoyed the overnight trip to the Noah’s Ark, in Kentucky. A most recent favorite experience of Sarah’s would be the class trip to Washington D.C. with Mr. Braun. The list is truly endless!

Currently, my daughter Sarah is a Junior and plays on the MVCA Lions Volleyball Team and my son Ben is a Freshman and plays on the MVCA Lions Basketball team.

Thank you Lord for being faithful to us! Thank you for the blessing of MVCA and your work you are doing within. I pray that each parent, each student and every staff member that walks the halls of MVCA, grows closer to You, so we can impact generations to come, for Your kingdom. May You continue to bless MVCA, and draw those who need You, close to You. In Jesus Name, Amen.

Sitting in choir practice in the spring of 1997 we were told, “you should bring Rachel to this new little school in Newtown”. Andy Lowe was the headmaster and sang bass. Rachel was 5 and we had not even considered anything other than public school. We agreed to check it out and have never left. Rachel is now 29 and a physician in WV. She was followed 5 years later by the twins, Sarah and Lukas. We weren’t sure how we would pay tuition for 3 but God always provided, even when the 4th, Seth, was born. We are so glad that we came to MVCA to equip and prepare our children. Sarah is nearing completion of her master’s and working with autistic children. Lukas is an engineer at Ariel Corporation in Columbus. Seth is finishing up at The Ohio State University in Film Studies and German. Through the years we have seen God at work in all areas of the Academy. Lukas was part of Mrs. Way’s 2nd grade that prayed for a football team each morning. His senior year he was named to the All State team. Just one more example of His provision.

While talking to my business partner during a corporate meeting, he shared that his wife worked for a philanthropist/foundation. His wife’s responsibility was to guide the foundation on where to allocate their funds. I knew the school was in need, as the heating system had just completely failed. I connected the 2 parties and not only did they fund the new heating system, but they also provided new insulated windows to make it more efficient. Since that introduction, this same foundation has been a source of support over the years for MVCA and has contributed over $2 million in improvement projects across the campus.

Although my children have graduated, I have not. I continue to support MVCA providing their photography. I see the blessings, large and small, on a regular basis. God’s faithfulness has never failed this academy. He has always provided every need. God knows the hidden connections that are at your fingertips that could potentially bless our school. In your moments of prayer, ask God what he could do through you.

WHO YOUdo know?

God knows the hidden connections that are at your fingertips.

Contact Deanna Powell, Deveopment Director, dpowell@mvca-oh.com

Rosie Rail has attended MVCA since she was in preschool. She began riding horses when she was 1 ½ and showing horses at 3 years of age. Now a Sophomore, she has become an avid equestrian rider while maintaining her studies.

Rosie’s Story..

I grew up around horses, so I don’t really know what life is like without them. I love the environment and just being around the barn and the horses. Balancing school demands and a riding schedule can be difficult at times, but it’s all worth it. Time management and communication definitely play a big role in success. I spend a decent number of hours a week at the barn as well as travel for horse shows year round. Usually, I miss a few days of school for each competition which requires good communication with my teachers to get my assignments in. Over the years, MVCA has been very flexible with my riding. I’m very thankful for the understanding and support I have received with my show schedules. All of my teachers have been willing to work with me on everything I miss in class and help me find the time to make up tests and quizzes. MVCA has allowed me to do what I love competitively! To attend a school that supports what I do is a huge blessing from God.

Riding takes a lot of hard work and confidence, which is learned through experience. I’m so grateful that I can continue to ride and compete throughout my high school years. My most memorable award was placing Reserve Champion at the Country Heir Show. I recently received the Legup Grant from the Kentucky Hunter Jumper Association which was a wonderful accomplishment. I have also participated in the HITS Shows, the largest hunter/jumper horse show production company in the United States as well as the WEC -World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida.

My future plans are qualifying for a couple equitation finals such as The Jumpseat Medal Finals, The Hammel, and a few more. I also want to continue in the 1.10 meter Jumpers and start looking into collages with equestrian teams. I love horses and I love my school!

If your MVCA student is in 7th-12th grade and competes in individual sports that are not offered at MVCA or recognized by the OHSAA, then let us know as we would like to highlight them in future MVCA communications.

JACKSON BURKE

Class of 2022 Co-Valedictorian

Miami Valley Christian Academy was my home for eight years. Throughout those years, MVCA never failed to support and push me to success in an environment where I felt comfortable and my efforts appreciated.

On June 27th, 2022, I reported to the United States Military Academy at West Point to begin my six-week basic training called, “Beast.” Regarded as one of the top public universities in the United States, West Point prepares young men and women to become future officers in the military through a focus on academics, military training, physical fitness, and character building. These future officers are trained to lead the country’s sons and daughters in protecting our founding ideals. Ironically, this was never a dream of mine. I never had a dream school or a singular career path that I wanted to follow through on when I got to the college decision-making process. However, when my endeavors led me to West Point, it was evident that MVCA had a profound influence in preparing me for such an opportunity as the United States Military Academy.

To say MVCA prepared me for this opportunity is an understatement. The person I have become, as well as my perspectives on morality, humanity, and purpose have been heavily influenced by my school experiences. These ideals are the foundation of my development into a soldier who is willing to risk his life for something that I actually believe in. MVCA also taught me to confidently make commitments and then trust God for the strength required to fulfill it. My third grade teacher’s class slogan was, “Do your best and let God do the rest!” Alongside Psalm 23:4-6–“Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.” These two foundational principles formed by belief system early on and most recently gave me peace to make my decision for West Point and eased the pressures and “unknowns” that weighed on my shoulders.

When it was time to enter high school, swimming had become my first love, and MVCA did not have a team or a pool. As my family and I discussed my swimming future, the possibility of me attending another school became real. One option was me swimming for my district high school while still attending MVCA. But that just wasn’t how I pictured my high school swimming career. After some tenacious creativity, my club coach and the Athletic Director discovered how I could continue to attend MVCA and even swim for MVCA. It was everything I had ever wanted, and I couldn’t believe that MVCA had gone out of their way to make it happen for me. Just me. Many people would say being on a one-man team would be boring or tough, but I wasn’t truly alone. I had the support of the entire MVCA community behind me and eventually my coach became the head coach of the Loveland High School swim team.

My MVCA high school swimming career saw me make the OHSAA State Swim Meet three times between 2020 and 2022 and become a fivetime Miami Valley Conference champion in multiple events.

MVCA will always feel like home no matter the time or place. I am extremely grateful to everyone who poured into me while I was at the academy, and I owe them a thank you for all they have ever done for me. Without them, I wouldn’t be the person I am today, nor would I be reporting to the USMA at West Point. All glory to God.

by Jenny Guin, Preschool Director

At Little Lions Preschool, our program is based on three unwaver ing goals that we have for our students. These core components are the basis for everything we do in preschool. First, we want our students to know that God made them, God loves them, and that God has expectations for them. By walking alongside parents as we plant these seeds of faith in preschoolers’ young hearts, we hope to create life-long disciples of Christ. Secondly, we want our students to love school. We want them to trust that school is a safe and happy place where teachers love and care about them. Creating a kind and loving school culture full of peace and pa tience helps to build a life-long love of learning among our littlest lions. Finally, we want to prepare our students for kindergarten. Kindergarten is more academically rigorous than ever before, and we strive to send students who are confident and ready to excel in that environment.

While working towards these goals, we also work hard to honor the God-given attributes of preschoolers. We know that preschool ers are motivated by joy and that they truly are wired to wiggle. With these factors in mind, we design our curriculum to provide

plenty of opportunities for movement and fun throughout the day. Some people think that preschool is just play. Research shows that preschoolers learn best through play, so we work to help our Little Lions get the most out of a day full of fun. By incorporating a balance of self-directed play and teacher-led activities, we provide an excellent learning environment for young learners.

The day begins with circle time, where we use songs, games, rhymes, and finger plays to teach and reinforce the letter of the week, math concepts and more. With our weekly themes, we get students busy using all of their senses while learning and growing. During letter G week, we read and compare many versions of The Gingerbread Man and culminate with a gingerbread hunt throughout the school to chase down our runaway cookie. When we teach about David and Goliath, we have students throw “rocks” at the giant on the top of the slide. During our author study of Eric Carle, our Pre-K students experiment with some of the methods and materials that Mr. Carle used to illustrate some of their favorite books. During letter A week, we cut, taste, and compare different apples and then graph our favorites. We use Play-Doh, scissors, manipulatives, and art activities to grow fine motor skills while our state-of-the-art playground and our plethora of indoor recess activities help our students improve in gross motor skills. These hands-on experiences help our students to enjoy school and motivate them to fully participate in all levels of learning. Preschoolers are motivated by joy and we have learned that our staff is also motivated by joy. We love what we do and we love the little people that we serve. God has been good to Little Lions Preschool! May we continue to honor him and His created ones in all that we do!

STEVEN WOOD

Steven Wood is 2009 Graduate from the academy. Steven married Teresa Pho` on October 3, 2021 in Laguna Beach, California. They live in Hyde Park with their toy Aussie, Kyo. The three of them love to hike and go on runs together. (Use it if you like, no worries if not) Teresa is a Senior Financial Advisor at First American. Steven is VP of Strategic Devel opment at Tire Discounters.

BRAD & EMILY KOZAK

Brad and Emily Kozak (Viele) met at MVCA and graduated together! They were married July 23, 2021 and now reside in Colorado where Brad is stationed in the Army. Emily graduated from Lee University with a BA in Management and double minors in psychology and religion.

Zack [2012] and Christy were married in Mason, Ohio on May 30th, 2021.

Sean [2011] married his wife, Tori in Mason, Ohio on May 30th, 2021.

JEN RHODENBAUGH

Dr. Jen Rhodenbaugh [2007] marries

Navy Lt. Justin Artis on November 14, 2020 in Poulsbo, Washington.

Sean and Zack Greves are the co-founders of Two Cities Pizza in Mason, Ohio. Recently they launched the second Two Cities Pizza location in Suwanee, Ga. They are excited about this season of new opportunity and advancement and are not only seeking to develop the brand, but the people that work with us. Several young professionals relocated from Ohio, as well as other states to build something great in Suwanee. They see Two Cities as an opportunity to cultivate leaders who care about the people they manage and the work they accomplish.

We are thankful for you and want you to know we feel your prayers of support and covering over our efforts on a daily basis. MVCA is strong and thriving because of stakeholders like you that set aside time to lift up this ministry in prayer and keep constant intercession on our behalf.

MVCA was founded by a group of prayer warriors who gained courage and wisdom to begin the work that we are cultivating today. For 26 years God has given us the strength and direction to preserve the 4 pillars the Academy is built on—those pillars being --Faith, Academics, Athletics, and Fine Arts. These are the keystones of every MVCA education. For the last 7 years, our MVCA Family has enjoyed the benefits of stronger enrollment and a stronger financial position. For such a time as this, God is blessing us with continued growth and expansion for our future. Our school board of directors is in step with His calling and have answered His call with an approval of plans for expansion that will strengthen and fortify the four pillars of our academy.

Scripture depicts Jesus repeatedly teaching that God expects us to use what He gives us to grow His Kingdom, and that He will reward those who do so.

Matt 5:21 Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things.

One blessing Jesus is clearly giving MVCA is an ever-increasing collection of faithful families who want to join our community. This is encouraging to us, because growth is critical for maintaining a thriving educational experience. It will increase the quality of Academics, Athletics and Fine Arts with more student athletes and performers. In addition, a larger student body gives us a broader and stronger tuition base, thereby ensuring our future independence and sustainability. We believe no family should have to choose between a Christ-centered education, and a superior academic, fine arts, and athletic experience that is affordable, and wisely pursuing growth is the path to get there.

We are committed to expansion with careful planning and dedicated prayer, and we are certain that God will lead us on the right path. We have recently purchased surrounding properties to give us flexibility for an expansion plan. These plans include new classrooms, expanded high school gym facilities, an updated Fine Arts staging, lights and preparation spaces in Founders Hall, and an enhanced spiritual life experience---just to name a few. It will take the next couple of years to follow through on these plans, but we couldn’t be more excited about where we believe God is leading us– towards an even stronger MVCA. I encourage you to set aside time to pray over our efforts as we seek to walk in His great commission for His ministry and all that He desires to do through MVCA.

God Bless you and God Bless MVCA.

MVCA Families,

Dr. Greg Beasley and the MVCA School Board

Dr. Greg Beasley