Lions' Pride Magazine, Summer 2017

PRIDE

LIONS’

M I A M I VA L L E Y C H R I S T I A N A C A D E M Y Summer/Fall 2017

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS MVCA anniversary and highlights of various events throughout the year

SERVATHON 2017

23 ministries served by MVCA students throughout the city

INTENTIONAL EFFORTS Record enrollment for the Academy and major accomplishments

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LIONS’

Summer 2016

PRIDE

MIAMI VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Lions’ Pride magazine is the official publication of Miami Valley Christian Academy, Cincinnati, Ohio. It is intended to inform, educate, and give insight to alumni, parents, and friends of the Academy and will be shared via mail with all constituent groups bi-annually.

MAILING ADDRESS Miami Valley Christian Academy 6830 School Street Cincinnati, Ohio 45244 513.272.6822 MVCA-OH.com PUBLISHER Greg Beasley, Head of School EDITORS Jill Beasley, Public Relations Director; Beth Hensley, Academic Dean; Heidi Huber, Operations Director; Beth Park, Development Specialist; Alison Seddon, MVCA parent ADVISORS Greg Beasley, Head of School; Jody Hilsher, Principal; Carol Glenzer, Dean of Students; Joe Middleton, Marketing Director; Robert Vilardo, Athletic Director; Paige McElfresh, Admissions Director; Beth Park, Development Specialist; Stephanie Scott, Event and Volunteer Coordinator; Rick Newland, Campus Manager

4 Intentional Efforts Head of School, Greg Beasley

6 Commencement Congratulations Class of 2017

8 Future Plans Graphics by Alumni, Tyler Ficker, Class of 2016

10 SPARC Short Park Athletic Recreational Complex

12 Student Highlights Pursue Your Passion, Ark Encounter, National Honor Society

14 Advance 2017 Principal, Jody Hilsher

16 Servathon 2017 Students Serve 23 Ministries

18 My MVCA Story Meet the Geiger and Stenson Families

20 Little Lions Preschool Preschool Director, Jenny Guin

21 Pastor Breakfast Jill Beasley, Public Relations Director

22 MVCA Memories

PHOTOGRAPHY Special thanks to Sandy Moreland and Moreland Photography for various photos. Visit SandyMorelandPhotography.com for more images.

Mother/Son Scallywag Tag | Father/Daughter Dance

MISSION STATEMENT Impacting the World for Christ.

Theatre, Music, Visual Arts

24 #WINTERJAM17 MVCA On Stage

26 Fine Arts 30 Athletics Winning On and Off The Field

34 Alumni Updated News Twitter@MVC AOH | Facebook .com/M iamiValleyChr istianAcademy

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INTENTIONAL EFFORTS TOWARDS GOD’S VISION GOD IS ON THE MOVE AT MVCA. AS OUR TEAM CENTERS ON GOD, GREAT THINGS CONTINUE TO HAPPEN.

by GREG BEASLEY

Head of School

WELCOME s I began writing to convey the numerous God stories that took place during the 16/17 school year, the exciting growth in the Academy, and the overwhelming support and dedication from the entire MVCA community, I realized there is only so much room to do so. While I trust you will feel and see the excitement and energy that is permeating the MVCA campus and community as you view these pages, I have chosen to share how God is accomplishing His mission and where He is directing us. May we give God the glory for it all and be reminded that He is in control and is leading us in mighty ways to Impact the World for Christ.

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#TEAMMVCA TeamMVCA is the vehicle God is using to drive us forward. We have expanded sub-teams throughout, which continue to be filled with dedicated volunteers spanning staff, students, parents, grandparents, alumni, and more. “As it is, there are many parts, yet one body” I Cor. 12:20, ESV.

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#ALLIN ALLin descibes a culture that continues to grow at MVCA. God searches and rewards the person whose heart is #ALLin. “Whatsoever ye do, work heartily, as unto the Lord” Col 3:23, ASV. Many have set an inspiring example, such as those who serve on our Academic Committee, Athletic Boosters, Auction Committee, Board of Trustees, Facilities Team, Fine Arts Boosters, Moms Who Pray,

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PTO, Servathon Committee, Spirit Shop Team, and SPARC Committee, to name a few.

RELENTLESS PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE s we grow to become all God wants us to be, we must strive for excellence. The Bible commands, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Jesus Christ” Col. 3:23,24, ESV.

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CELEBRATING ACCOMPLISHMENTS t is always a blessing to see the ways God works throughou His people.

Our students, staff, and school have achieved great things, and for this we celebrate.

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SOLID FOUNDATION e’ve heard time and again of the importance of a firm

W Carla Wood (Board President) and Greg Beasley (Head of School) stand with Karen Forgus, who delivered the keynote address for the 2017 Commencement.

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Enrollment Record

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Year Anniversary of MVCA

65 +

Churches Represented

23

Ministries served in Servathon

$80,000

Servathon goal met

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Sold out performances, Disney’s, The Little Mermaid at The Anderson Center

361 Greg Beasley (Head of School) prays over students before they begin the day.

“Amazing things are happening as a result of an intentional effort to whole heartedly pursue excellence together that we may bring glory to our God.” GREG BEASLEY foundation. The Bible emphasizes this in the book of Matthew, “Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the

winds beat against that house, it won’t collapse because it is built on bedrock.

But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn’t obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash” Matthew 7, 24-27, NLT. It is a blessing to be a part of a team of Kingdom builders dedicated to discipling the next generation and expanding His vision.

We are blessed to build on the foundation of these and the structures God has built through the entire MVCA community the last 20 years.

THANK YOU whole-hearted thank you to those who are reading this and have supported, are supporting, or planning to support the Kingdom-work being done at MVCA. You play a major role in this ministry. Your partnership is making a difference to Impact the World for Christ.

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Auction Attendance Record

65

Pastors attended Pastor Breakfast

$135,000 +

Raised at “Get a Clue” Auction

50+

Participants completed 19 projects at inaugural Campus Clean Up Day

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MVCA entering Miami Valley Conference More Accomplishments • Academic Quiz Team established • Annual Fund Gap goal met • After School Care Program implemented • Connections Cafe established by PTO • ISP: First international students attended • Lions’ Pride official MVCA magazine established • School Spiritual theme, Live Like That • MVCA website redesigned / upgraded to be mobile-friendly • Naviance program launched to aide students for college • Preschool rebranded as Little Lions Preschool • Security Improvements: Added cameras • Spirit Shop: Record sales and more options • Student Chaplains lead announcements, chapels, and more

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The class of 2017 left an exemplary footprint in the realm of student leadership. This class developed the new role of Class Chaplain. Brad Grosjean accepted this position and further expanded his duties to become the first student to lead a seed group. Additionally, this group developed the position of Chapel Coordinator. Olivia Sherwood stepped in here and did a beautiful job of facilitating details for smoothly run chapel experiences. These leadership appointments continue today as a result of a willingness to serve. Other notable hallmarks include being the first class to save on prom expenses so extensively that they were able to donate a gift back to the school, and concluded their MVCA tenure receiving a 100% acceptance rate into the school of their choice! Kudos and prayers for continued success!

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LIONS’ PRIDE | Summer 2017

Karen Forgus, Senior Vice President of Business Operations for the Cincinnati Reds and former MVCA Parent delivers keynote address

Nathaniel Scheffer, Valedictorian

Lilia Arlen, Salutatorian Board of Trustees (Back row left to right) Dr. Lou Schott M.D., Nick Ruotolo (Secretary), Chris WIlson, Doug Bush, Todd Carson (Treasurer), Paul Schacht (Vice President), Tom Rhodenbaugh (Front row left to right) Nadia Shaya, Carla Wood (President), Heather Engel (Not pictured) Kristin Budzynski, Dr. Mark Caner (Vice President)

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MIAMI VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY OF 2017

Nathaniel William Arington

Alyssa Mackenzie Petty

Ohio Wesleyan University Early Childhood Education & Psychology

Lilia Francesca Arlen

Nicholas Andrew Phillips

Thomas Andrew Gott

Nathaniel Aaron Scheffer

Bradley Steven Grosjean

Raquel Bryanni Costa Schmidt

UTUR

Cedarville University Business Management

Lipscomb University Molecular Biology/Pre-Medicine University of Cincinnati Undecided

The Ohio State University Electrical Engineering & Computer Science

Rachel Lee Herbert

University of Cincinnati Nursing

Carter Michael Hoerth

Bowling Green State University Film Production

Julia Christine Hessler University of Cincinnati Exploratory Studies

Nicholas Matthew Hoyle University of Cincinnati Business

Samuel James Hunkler

The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business Accounting

Kyler Boyd Jackson

University of Cincinnati Engineering

Bradley Daniel Kozak

The United States Army Chem, Bio, Radiological & Nuclear Specialist

Laurel Marie Lammrish University of Cincinnati Biology/Pre-Medicine

Noah Edward Mays

Northern Kentucky University College of Informatics, Media Informatics

Sydney Rebecca Ann McGuire Northern Kentucky University Biology/Pre-Forensic Sciences

Cincinnati Christian University Business University of Cincinnati Applied Sciences Mechanical Engineering Phlebotomy Technician Training

Trinity Victoria Shaya

University of Cincinnati Art & Psychology/Pre-Art Therapy

Olivia Joy Sherwood

University of Cincinnati Conservatory of Music: Vocal Music Ed.

Taylor Jane Stagnaro

University of Cincinnati Conservatory of Music, Dance: Ballet

Elena Marie Stenson

Lee University Secondary Education Mathematics

Donald William Tharp

University of Cincinnati Applied Sciences Mechanical Engineering

Lemya Tirba

Berea College Biology/Pre-Medicine

Emily Marie Velie

Lee University Business & Psychology

Elizabeth Catherine Winterod Xavier University Pre-Occupational Therapy

Melanie Jean Wojewoda Westchester University Psychology

Graphics by Tyler Ficker, Class of 2016 Warrior Creative Jr. | (513) 404-8110 Portraits . Graphic Design . Wildlife Photography warriorcreativejr.com | warriorcreativejr@gmail.com

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S H O R T PA R K AT H L E T I C R E C R E AT I O N A L CO M P L E X

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LIONS’ PRIDE | Summer 2017

SPARC

Image above is the design of SPARC, which will be located adjacent to MVCA. The vision of SPARC is to transform a significantly under-utilized park into a community recreation and special events centerpiece while also providing MVCA with an athletic complex.

You are an important part of the SPARC (Short Park Athletic Recreational Complex) future!!

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he shared-vision for MVCA to have home fields for athletics is almost a reality. SPARC is a project that will place quality athletic facilities into Short Park for our use and the use of the entire community. We will be walking to athletic practices and games rather that driving to others schools for home

competitions. But this is not just about athletics! This is a Kingdom building project that will positively impact both our MVCA community, the Village of Newtown, and the broader eastside of Cincinnati. Just like we have been told countless times that you can “feel the Holy Spirit in our halls”, we can’t wait for people to be touched by the Holy Spirit on our fields! This partnership with the Village of Newtown will extend our outreach and benefit the school for years to come.

As the last plank in our MVCA strategic plan that began five years ago, the SPARC Team has been working diligently to finalize plans and partner with major gift donors through the quiet phase of the fundraising. As of August

Our continued effort to reach the $2.5 million goal to build the Athletic Complex for the benefit of our community, current students, and generations to come!

2017, we have raised $1.2 million of the $2.5 million needed from 100+ donors.

We are now launching a more public phase of fundraising to secure the last $1.3 million needed.

Members of our many constituencies will be asked to become donors and to help identify others who may have interest.

We feel like a coordinated referral process will not just benefit this project, but will help identify people who have other areas of interest at MVCA for which they might give their time, talents, and treasures.

Everyone has influence with others (i.e. family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, businesses, foundations, etc.) and can involve others in this effort. Our plan is to divide into divisions, and volunteer chairs and committees are being recruited for each division.

The divisions include: Board of Trustees MVCA Staff MVCA Parents MVCA Grandparents MVCA Alumni/Past Parents Friends of MVCA Village of Newtown Corporations/Businesses Foundations If you have interest in joining us as a volunteer, please let us know!

You are an important part of the SPARC Dream!!

Believing In and Supporting SPARC Anonymous Friends Beacon Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine Brad Cousino, Past President NFL Alumni/Cincinnati Charley Frank, Cincinnati Reds Community Fund Drayer Physical Therapy Institute Greater Cincinnati Foundation Hayden Family Foundation Jim Breech, President NFL Alumni Incorporated John Garrett, Lafayette College Head Football Coach MEHLÂ Family Foundation Mayor Mark Kobasuk Miami Valley Christian Academy families PNC Bank / John A. Schroth Charitab le Trust Thomas J. Emery Memorial Tom Carter, Director of NFL Players/Development William Artzt Village of Newtown

Recognition Opportunities $250,000 - All Weather Field Dedication $250,000- Baseball Field Dedication $100,000 - Press Box Dedication $150,000 - Track Dedication $50,000 - Walking Trail Dedication $100,000 - Concessions Dedication $50,000 - Scoreboard Dedication $10,000 - Large Fence Sign $5,000 - Medium Fence Sign

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Pursue your Passion M

vca freshman, Kelsey Caner (class of 2021), began taking basic gymnastics classes at age 4. Her love of tumbling led her to the sport of cheer. She started cheering competitively in 4th grade as a flyer at CIA cheer gym. She was a flyer for 2 years and then moved to new gym, Queen City Storm, as a back spot. The competition season runs from November through April with usually 8-10 competitions. Her dedication keeps her in the gym year round practicing 2-3 days a week. When she’s not in the gym she can most likely be found practicing on her trampoline!

Ark Encounter Trip T

he 5th and 6th grade had the opportunity to visit the Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Kentucky. The experience offered exploration of the life size ark and a time of discussion around the journey of Noah and his family as they learned to trust God. Inside the ark, there is a large door engraved with Revelation 3:20, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock, if any man hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to eat with him and he with me.” The resounding life principle from this excursion was, “You can trust God to care for your every need and He is always right on time!”

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LIONS’ PRIDE | Summer 2017

5th Woodland Lakes | 6th Potter’s Ranch C

reation Camp takes place at Woodland Lakes and fosters knowledge of God’s creation for MVCA 5th graders. Day classes and activities are packed with information about natural sciences with a perspective of God’s Creation. Chapel time enriches the overall experience as the focus illuminates the Genesis account; God, the Creator of all. Students also have fun activities like rock wall climbing, paddle boats and bouncy house.

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otter’s Ranch hosts MVCA 6th graders every year for a time of service and reflection. Students perform various projects such as mulching, weeding, mucking out horse stalls, and clearing sticks and rocks from fields, in order to ready the camp for its summer visitors. Chapel time emphasizes strengthening personal relationships with God. Students are challenged to stay in the Word of God and discuss how to choose friends wisely. Team building exercises include zip lining and rock wall climbing.

NJHS/NHS M

embership in the National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society is a privilege. Established in 1921, the ideals of induction remain as relevant today as they were then. The Honor Society member exhibits excellence in academics and leadership, honorable and admirable character, and demonstrates a commitment to service—all of which indicate that the member is willing to use personal talents and skills for the improvement of both self and society.

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ADVANCE 2 0 1 7 A Valuable Piece in the Puzzle of Student Life

by JODY HILSHER, Principal

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VCA assists in building each student’s life puzzle. The Creator of each puzzle has crafted divine purpose with great detail for each life.

He designed the picture of every puzzle and without His direction, the final picture will not be seen clearly.

If you were to ponder what the most important piece of a puzzle is, your conclusion would probably be the corner piece, which serves as the anchor and foundation in puzzle building. It is safe to compare the corner puzzle piece, in the puzzle of life, to the parents of MVCA students that give them life anchors and a firm foundation. Side puzzle pieces are important as well, and could be compared to the roles the local church and school play as they help to set boundaries and guide in the direction of future plans. The pieces that fill in the center of our students’ lives are colored by teachers, coaches, youth pastors, pastors, and important individuals that come together to make connections that

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form the inner workings of the puzzle and ensure it adheres together.

Advance is a retreat for MVCA

middle school and high school students that is held at Camp Kern. It featured an Amazing Race that required classes to work together in order to finish. I watched the final challenge of the race as they worked to solve an intricate puzzle and decipher the relevance of each clue.

Each piece of the puzzle was important and necessary to finish strong.

There are countless pieces which must be placed for Advance to be

successful. This event included over 25 MVCA staff members, 15 Camp Kern staff, worship leaders and speakers from Ambassadors’ Pointe Church, and a guest speaker being our own Alumni, Bransen Vilardo.

In addition to devotional time, chapel services, game challenges, pizza and campfires, the students gave service hours to help the Camp Director with grounds keeping. The Director complimented our students commenting how much he and the camp staff appreciated their spirit, politeness, and pleasant presence while on site. He added that Camp Kern sees over 30,000 people a year and that they would gladly welcome us to return.

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MVCA Students Serve Around The City

by STEPHANIE SCOTT Events and Volunteer Coordinator

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riday, April 2nd, marked the 12th annual Servathon for MVCA. Servathon is much more than a fundraiser; it is a great opportunity for us to give back to the community. We had 60 volunteers (parents, grandparents, and special guests) join our students and staff as we volunteered at 23 local non profits for a total of 1,638 man hours worked.

Servathon was a huge success in many ways. We met our fundraising goal of $80,000. More importantly, we formed new partnerships with local non profits serving a wide array of needs.

Our students helped at a service dog center, provided natural disaster relief support, nurtured local kids and families, assembled Bibles, maintained Cincinnati Parks, visited and interacted with senior citizens, packed gift boxes for our service men and women, and more. As a result of the relationships cultivated from Servathon, our students now have the opportunity to serve at a variety of these locations throughout the school year!

Thank you to all who participated and a special thank you to our awesome sponsors: Midwestern Plumbing, DigiCom, and ATS.

Save the Date Servathon 5.4.18

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LIONS’ PRIDE | Summer 2017

Twitter@MVC AOH | Facebook .com/M iamiValleyChr istianAcademy

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Choosing An Integrated Life

by The Geiger Family

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very day, we make choices.

While some are mundane (One cup of coffee or two? Blue shirt or green?), others shape our daily lives-even our futures. Choosing to integrate God into the ins and outs of their days drew one family to MVCA. “We wanted our boys to view their walk with God as an every moment relationship, and not something separated from real life. To understand that God and His story are woven in the fabric of everything they would learn; and to walk in a manner that reflects that knowledge,” says Kurt Geiger, whose three sons now attend MVCA. Despite living in a respected school district in Kansas City, just down the block from the elementary school, Kurt and Linzi opted to send their oldest son Kaleb to a Christian school. Prayer in the classroom, tailored curriculum, smaller class sizes, and more individualized attention appealed to the Geigers. Like many, they realized the financial challenge of choosing private education, especially with Kaleb’s two younger brothers Ethan

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and Jacob following close behind. But their conviction to provide their sons with an integrated life -- of learning how to behave and interact with others based on Jesus’ teachings -- lead them to commit to Christian education. That was nine years ago.

When a job offer moved the Geiger family from Cleveland to Cincinnati, they set up scores of school tours based on two criteria: Christian schools and the sports programs offered. The three boys toured the schools with their parents, and after a long day that ended with their first Graeter’s ice cream cone, all were ready to enroll at MVCA. “Kaleb was excited about the football program and the fact that he wouldn’t have to go to a public school to pursue this passion. The theater program caught Ethan’s eye and he had several questions about the plays. Jacob perked up as the third grade class told us about their field trips and what they had learned,” says Linzi.

“Linzi and I were excited too,” says Kurt. “The Admissions Director and teachers had been flexible and accommodating. The faith based curriculum and academic focus was very impressive. All the opportunities, from the fine arts options to the sports programs blew us away.

In the midst of the stresses of relocating, we had peace in this decision, starting in the MVCA parking lot.”

As they enter their third year at MVCA, they’re even more at peace than that first day.

“Our expectations have been exceeded on every front,” says Kurt.

“We were welcomed into the MVCA community and have met great families. The boys are being challenged academically, learning how to apply facts with a biblical worldview. They are developing their athletic skills through a talented coaching staff, and at the same time learning to show love to the opponents they face. All three boys have been in at least one play, and participate in the different choir/band groups. From encouraging the boys to live lives of excellence to teaching them how to recognize the voice of the Holy Spirit, the teachers, coaches and staff have spoken things into our children that are having meaningful impacts in their lives and walks with God. MVCA’s focus on academics, service, discipleship and sportsmanship are all helping to develop an education that will serve our young men well in the future.”

Expanding the Meaning of Family

by Martha and Elena Stenson

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lena and her mom would say they have an extended family at MVCA. Martha and Elena became family themselves in 2001, when Elena was adopted from Bulgaria and came to live in Cincinnati. She has spent nearly her entire academic life at MVCA, and over the years, the community has built into both mother and daughter.

“She has had teachers who have shown an interest, love their job, and live their lives in such a way that Elena also wants to be a teacher,” says her mother, Martha. “The teachers, administration, staff and coaches have also been an extra support to me as a single parent and help reinforce our faith and values."

“Having Elena involved in such a variety of activities gave her a very wellrounded background. I don't think she will be afraid to tackle any opportunities or challenges in the future." Martha was also heavily involved at the school

with Fine Arts Boosters, as a basketball scorekeeper, and an auction volunteer.

While MVCA’s focus on topnotch academics is fueling Elena’s future studies, the school’s emphasis on character development had far-reaching effects in shaping the person Elena has become.

“When I think of MVCA, I think of the people and how I've come to know them and see them live their lives,” Martha reflects. “I think of the Vilardos who grew their family not once, but twice, through adoption. Both husband and wife spent countless hours on the field and court building into kids. During Elena's senior year, her basketball team prayed with the other teams, asking for prayer requests after every game. Additionally, Elena's cross country coach is also a pastor sharing devotionals and telling stories WHILE they are running! "These are memories that will stay with Elena and impact her for the rest of her life.”

“I love that any team I’m on at MVCA is inclusive of everyone involved,” says Elena, a recent 2017 MVCA graduate. Involved in many things herself--cross country, drama,

basketball, student government--Elena found her place among classmates, teachers, and coaches.

Elena’s most impactful memories stem from her time performing with the theatre department.

“It is such a great family that works really well together," explains Elena.

"They not only put on a great show, but continue to love each other throughout the whole process. One of my favorite stories is when one of the Cappies came to our show. Afterward, we invited her to come to UDF with us (our after show tradition). She was so shocked that we could perform together and still be able to hang out and be in community with each other, because her theatre program was not at all like that.”

Martha's final sentiment captures the culture of community that thrives at MVCA. “Having Elena attend since first grade has been one of the best decisions I’ve made. We will miss MVCA but will always be a part of the MVCA family."

S h a r e y o u r M V C A s t o r y w i t h J i l l B e a s l e y a t MyStor y@mvca- oh.com

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by JENNY GUIN Little Lions Preschool Director

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reschoolers are naturally inquisitive, and full of energy. As someone who is called to work with preschoolers on a daily basis, I feel like one of the luckiest people on the planet! I love my job

because every day I get to channel that boundless energy and natural curiosity to help these kids grow to love learning.

My three children were preschoolers not too terribly long

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ago, and I’m constantly asking myself “what would I have wanted for my own kids in preschool?” Like any parent, first and foremost, I wanted my preschoolers to feel safe, loved and respected. At Little Lions Preschool, we provide a safe and loving environment where children can learn in a culture of respect rooted in Biblical values. I also wanted my children to be challenged academically so that they would be well prepared for kindergarten.

Research shows that preschoolers learn best through play, so the other teachers and I work to create fun experiences that will help our students expand their minds while having “the best day ever.” Most importantly, I wanted my preschoolers to be influenced by adults who shared my values and world view.

The part of my job that gives me goosebumps is that I get to share Jesus with these kiddos every day! We have formal Bible Time each morning where we read the truths of God’s word and try to plant it deep in our students’ hearts.

The real magic happens when we weave that thread through our daily learning and actions. Whether we’re reading about wild animals or solving a playground spat, we do it through a Biblical worldview.

Children are born learning, but a child’s first formal school experience is a

big milestone.

I consider it an honor and a privilege to partner with parents who value Christian education and trust us to get the job done!

Pastor Breakfast

by JILL BEASLEY Public Relations Director

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heological divides were washed away in a sea of syrup and pancakes as Miami Valley Christian Academy hosted its second annual Pastor Breakfast.

Sixty-five pastors, clergy, and priests from 36 area churches came together to be honored and appreciated for their sacrifice to area families.

This event continues to grow and has become a favorite for MVCA and its guests! It’s truly amazing how biscuits and gravy can bring folks together and leave you with a feeling of satisfaction that someone truly appreciates you.

Following breakfast, pastors were invited to visit their students in the classrooms and were given warm hugs and hand-made thank you cards.

65+

Churches represented at MVCA

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Pastors attended

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Are you a Pastor?

You are invited to the Pastor Breakfast on 3.22.18

Twitter@MVC AOH | Facebook .com/M iamiValleyChr istianAcademy

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The best thing about

Memories

is making them.

MOTHER / SON SCALLYWAG TAG | FATHER / DAUGHTER DANCE

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amily fun never wanes at MVCA functions. Whether moms battle their sons in a rousing game of pirate scallywag laser tag, or dads limbo and sip punch from a fountain, the end result is sure to be an unforgettable memory!

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#LIVELIKETHAT

BASKETBALL HOOP MCCOY DEDICATION

LOVELAND AMAZING CHARITY RACE

WOODLAND LAKES SPRING SENIOR DAY

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he family of MCVA father and coach, Matt McCoy, dedicated a new basketball court to memorialize a man that lived like Christ and inspired others to do so!

VCA provided race guides and 2,000 cartons of cold chocolate milk to racers as they participated in a race that gives back to hundreds of local charities.

tudents love to serve senior saints at Woodland Lakes where service and smiles are treasured and appreciated.

Staff Appreciation Week at MVCA

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VCA’s PTO and Board of Trustees support our teachers, staff, students, and parents with several endeavors throughout the school year. Some of those include the Father/Daughter Dance, 5th grade Ark Encounter Field Trip, and Staff Christmas Goodie Day. Whatever the event, you can be assured that every detail is laden with love and excellence!

Staff Appreciation Week centered around the theme of “Best Staff in the World.” Every team member received a personalized passport and boarding pass for the daily events. Foods from around the world were dished up with love and creativity, and hand crafted souvenirs bearing gas cards for the next big trip were equally enjoyed.

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M V C A O N S TAG E #WINTERJAM17

US Bank Arena

15,000 + Attendance MVCA sings back up for Newsong

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LIONS’ PRIDE | Summer 2017

by JILL BEASLEY Public Relations Director Winter Jam Tour Spectacular is Christian music’s largest annual tour.

This incredible evening of live concerts boasts top artists in Christian music, plus worship and ministry, to encourage believers and share the good news with those who have yet to trust Christ.

MVCA’s Academy and Jazz choirs were invited to perform on stage at US Bank Arena along with the renowned Christian Music group, NewSong. Other featured artists of the night included Crowder, Jordan Feliz, Andy Mineo, Colton Dixon, OBB, Tenth Avenue North, Sarah Reeves, Britt Nicole, and Sadie Robertson. Truly, God is on the move at MVCA!

Twitter@MVC AOH | Facebook .com/M iamiValleyChr istianAcademy

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FINE ARTS

Disney’s The Little Mermaid

by BETHANY STANGER Music Teacher

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he Anderson Center proudly featured our talented MVCA players and company for 4 sold out performances of this beloved family production. MVCA theatre boasts Cappies nominations and scads of quality acting and vocal performances.

The Little Mermaid represents a

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milestone of progress and growth in the MVCA Fine Arts Department as the cast size grew to the largest in school history.

God granted major technical progress. in the form of projection usage. For the first time, projection enhanced the audience’s visual experience by immersing the stage in color and settings not possible with traditional scenery alone. Aerial silks

stretched performers into a new area of performance that included elevated acrobatics. Heely shoes and boards enhanced the movement of several characters and costumes reached a new level of imagination and excellence.

Evidence of students’ spiritual growth kept all the drama on the stage while morale and teamwork levels soared.

If you haven’t caught a production yet, make sure you do so in the future!

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Jazz and Academy Choirs

by BETHANY STANGER

Music Teacher

CONGRATULATIONS on these accolades from the Festivals of Music Competition in Chicago: Concert Band-1st Place, Excellent rating Jazz Band-1st Place, Superior rating Academy Choir-1st Place, Superior rating Jazz Choir-1st Place, Superior rating

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he spring band and choir program was a mixture of old and new. The Fifth Grade Band led the way with the toe-tapping song “The Lion Sleeps Tonight,” followed by the Academy Chorus singing several songs in Latin, and ending with the worship song “Our God Reigns Forever” made famous by Israel Houghton.

The Middle School Band brought their performance home with the epic “Theme from Jurassic Park.” The rich and resonant song “Salvation is Created” by Pavel Tschesnokoff was played by MVCA’s Concert Band. The Concert Band also highlighted an up and coming young composer—one of their own players, Sam Owens, in his premiere piece “Here at the Valley.” The Jazz Choir poured their hearts out in the lyrical “Once Upon a Time,” and the Jazz Band finished the evening off with several pieces, one of which featured the band’s tremendous trombone section. One of the highlights of the evening was recognizing the graduating musicians: Sam Hunkler, Noah Mays, Elena Stenson, Olivia Sherwood, and Joseph Ivan, three of whom will be pursuing music as a major or minor in college.

Evening of Fine Arts

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VCA’s Evening of Fine Arts is an annual showcase of student visual and performing art. This year featured the Eric Snyder Quartet, local professional artists and their work, 3rd grade “Famous Artist” cameos, poetry, drama, piano, dance

by Ballet Reflect and desserts served by MVCA students!

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Henry and Ramona

by LISA BAUMAN

Drama Teacher

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iddle school drama performers amused young and old alike in this humorous and nostalgic play by Beverly Cleary. Best friends Henry and Ramona take on challenges and ultimately help each other through the everyday trials and triumphs of being a kid.

The annual middle school play provides opportunities for students to strengthen their personal talents both on stage and off prior to competing for parts and positions in the high school play and academy musical. Plays allow students more personal coaching in performance and offstage duties than a major musical schedule allows.

Strong bonds form between the middle school and high school student helpers, fostering natural mentoring and discipleship.

During these important years, many find their niche and gain confidence to try new things. Every drama role builds passion for the arts and develops experience with cooperation, conflict resolution, and leadership. Perseverance and good work ethic ensue from the commitment and dedication it takes to see a production through from start to finish. Humility is fostered through the interdependence required to mount a successful production. Maturity also blossoms after receiving personal responsibilities with duties and role delivery. Most importantly, faith is broadened as students depend on the Lord and return all the glory to Him who grants the talents to pursue this thrilling theatre life.

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Robert Vilardo (Head Football Coach and Athletic Director) and son, Bransen Vilardo (Class of 2016) talk about game strategy on the sideline.

Athletic director wins for MVCA

by JILL BEASLEY Public Relations Director

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iami Valley Christian Academy is proud to share the level of professionalism their staff strives to attain. MVCA celebrates as The National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) announces that Robert Vilardo, Athletic Administrator at Miami Valley Christian Academy, is being recognized as a Certified Athletic Administrator.

To earn this distinction, Robert has demonstrated the highest level of knowledge and expertise in the field of interscholastic athletic administration.

The voluntary certification process included a thorough evaluation of the candidate's educational background, experience and professional

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contributions, as well as a rigorous, comprehensive written examination.

Robert is one of an elite group of interscholastic athletic administrators nationwide to attain this level of professionalism.

The NIAAA is a national professional organization consisting of all 50 state athletic administrator associations and more than 10,000 individual members. It is dedicated to promoting the professional growth of high school athletic administrators and preserving the educational nature of interscholastic athletics and the place of these programs in the secondary school curriculum.

Visit

mvca-oh.com/athletics for schedules of all

MVCA Athletic Events

athletes sign for college

Melanie Wojewoda, signed with West Chester University to participate in gymnastics! Her involvement in gymnastics has spanned most of her life with her recent accolades being earned on a national level. Melanie was crowned the 2016 MVCA Homecoming Queen and will be missed by the Lion pack. #GoLions!

Michele Lee has played Middle School and Varsity Basketball for MVCA over the past 6 years. She will be able to further her passion of the sport as she signed with Wilmington College to play NCAA D3 college basketball! #GoLions!

MVCA wrestler competes at state

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restler Seth Henderson became the second athlete in MVCA history to compete at the State level and the first athlete for wrestling. Seth placed second in the District Meet and went on to compete in Columbus at the OHSAA State Wrestling Championship.

This is quite an accomplishment for a Sophomore in High School! The best news is we have two more years to watch him compete! #GoLions!

mvca s

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LIONS’ PRIDE | Summer 2017

GO LIONS

glory

Grit & and

Team

GoD FIRST

strong

lion pride Twitter@MVC AOH | Facebook .com/M iamiValleyChr istianAcademy

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UPDATE NEWS FROM...

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Isaac Owens

After completing The Recording Workshop’s Core and Advanced programs in audio engineering in February 2016, Isaac was thrilled to get back into acting/ singing and started participating in community theater around Cincinnati.

He has been involved in two productions with Beechmont Players and one with Cincinnati Music Theater. His first “returning to the stage” experience provided multiple roles in The Wizard of Oz (Summer 2016). He played Nikko and was a Featured Ensemble member (including a solo). Next, he filled a longterm goal of performing on the JarsonKaplan Theater stage at the Aronoff and was an Ensemble cast member in Billy Elliott with Cincinnati Music Theater.

His most recent role was with Beechmont Players in The Secret Garden, in the role of Fakir.

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Cody Price

It has now been over three years since I graduated from MVCA. In the fall, I will go into my senior year at Lee University to achieve a bachelors degree in sociology. After graduation, I am planning to attend graduate school for Theology or Sociology. I am where I am today

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due to the influences and opportunities God placed in my life through MVCA. I graduated with a grounded faith in God, with a desire and ambition to do his will.

Since I’ve been gone those at the school have continually poured into my life.

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Tyler Ficker

I just wrapped up my first year at The Ohio State University as a Forestry, Fisheries, and Wildlife major.

Very quickly I became involved with an ornithology club to surround myself with other people who shared the same passion for birds and photography as I did. Shortly after school ended, I spent a month traveling across the Northeastern portion of the country with a friend in pursuit of birds and photography opportunities. I continue to share wildlife photos in hopes of inspiring someone new into exploring the incredible outdoors that God created.

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Nicole Wellington

Nicole just wrapped up her first year as a Nursing major in the Honors Program at Northern Kentucky University. She has joined several oncampus ministries at NKU and to keep her schedule overflowing, she has jumped in her local church’s youth ministry. Fusion Student Ministry serves 7th-12th grade students where they enjoy time around God’s Word with mentors such as Nicole and fellowship that strengthens selfesteem. She attributes her strong sense of faith and academic preparedness to her 13 years at MVCA. #LiveLikeThat, Nicole!

Hannah Ahern (former MVCA student) I attended MVCA during my freshman and sophomore year of high school. I really don’t think I would have been accepted at Hillsdale if it was not for the portfolio that MCVA prepared me with. I am not so sure that many private Christian schools are able to support and value the arts the way MVCA did. I was exposed to a variety of mediums, expressions and forms of art during my time there. I was really pushed towards excellence and my creativity was given an outlet to flourish in. MVCA was truly instrumental in my choice to pursue an art degree in college and to have confidence in the value of the arts as a Christian. Attached is my most recent

piece. It was a collaborative effort with a fellow believer. Know that your school was an instrument that God used to allow me to pursue the passion He gave me.

Josh and Hillary Amendola (former MVCA students) Josh and I met back in 8th grade. We both started MVCA at the same time, and with the small class sizes you get to know your classmates well. Josh attended one year, but I went until 10th grade. Fast forward 11 years, we re-met when he was playing softball against some of my friends in Milford. It took a little longer to recognize him, but we stood around the field talking about the time we spent at MVCA and who we stayed in contact with. About a year ago, we decided

to take his two kids to see where we met and went to school together. We played on the play set at MVCA and while we were playing hide and seek, I found them all down on one knee and Josh holding a ring. Even though we only spent a little time at MVCA it’s still a place we hold dear to our hearts. We are now married, and celebrating our first Anniversary in September and will be expecting our third child in February! God is good!

Impacting the World for Christ On the Field Alumni Adam McCoy Reflects on his MVCA Football Days

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n a brisk fall night in early October 2014, my MVCA football teammates prepared to take the field for our homecoming matchup against Hillcrest Training School. Unfortunately, I was unable to play in the game as I was recovering from a recent surgery, but I still wanted to support my team, so I decided to lend a hand in the spotter's booth. As I approached Anderson's Charles Brown stadium, I had only one thought: this game should be an easy win. Hillcrest is a residential youth treatment program operated under the Hamilton County Juvenile Court and Probation Department whose fledgling football program was two years younger than our own and had mustered only one win combined in their first 2+ seasons.

The game went largely as expected: a 34-0 shutout win for MVCA. As the final horn sounded, I made my way down to the field to pray with the other players, as is MVCA's tradition after every game. Due to the circumstances surrounding Hillcrest's players, we often would try to do a little extra to shine Christ's light to some young men who might be in a bit of a dark place. That evening, Boosters provided Chickfil-A sandwiches to players and coaches from both teams. As I ate my sandwich, I struck up a conversation with Hillcrest's quarterback. After talking about the game for a while, he asked me if we followed up every game by having a meal with our opponents. I jokingly remarked that while I certainly wished that was the case, it unfortunately was not. Upon hearing my response, he turned quickly to his teammate and exclaimed, "See, they feel sorry for us!" Suddenly, I was challenged to think of something besides our blowout win and of someone besides myself.

The quarterback's response gave me an opportunity to share with him the truth about our intentions and about the God we serve. I let him know that while we certainly wanted to reach out to the guys at Hillcrest, we didn't think we were any better than them because of our different positions in life. I referenced Romans 3:23, which says, "For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God." After we were finished eating, our two schools headed our separate ways; I wasn't sure if what I had said registered with Hillcrest's quarterback or his friend, but all I could do was trust that God would work in their hearts through my words.

Later in that schoolyear, I traveled to Oyler High School as a member of MVCA's basketball team. As I was heading out of the locker room toward the gym, I passed him!

While it took me a second to place his face, he recognized me instantly and was happy to announce to me that he had "gotten free!" The joy I saw on his face replaced the disappointed look I had seen earlier. While I didn’t get all the details of his new-found freedom, it was confirmation to me that the plays God sets us up for on life’s playing field are profoundly important to be ready for. #LiveLikeThat ~Adam McCoy #75

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