CougarNow Winter 2024

V O L . 21 • W I N T E R 2024

Be KIND

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Bearing Good Fruit and Being Kind Embodies Phoenix Christian!

We hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season and pray for a blessed 2024! Each year at PC our high school and middle school have had the joy of creating purposeful themes for the year. These themes embody who we are, direct our spiritual life on campus and leave a lasting impression on our students. Galatians 5:22-23 expresses the fruit of the spirit as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Throughout this school year we have used this verse to direct our theme “Bear Good Fruit.” The theme of “Bear Good Fruit” leads our students in every aspect of their life on and off campus. We have embodied this theme and have lived out these fruit in amazing ways this year. Whether it be helping the less fortunate during a serve day or saying kind words to others, we have been grateful to see our students “Bear Good Fruit.”

In addition to our high school and middle school theme, our elementary students have taken part of “The Be Kind People Project” this year. Based on Ephesians 4:32 this project has led our elementary students to learn what it means to Be Kind.

Each month our elementary students are focused on one aspect of kindness and live this out in the classroom. We have been blessed with local leaders who relate this theme to our students each week in chapel. This theme has cultivated a positive culture for our elementary students who seek to live life as Christ did.

Phoenix Christian is a vibrant campus full of opportunities for our students. As our students embrace these opportunities, we are thankful to glorify God through the themes “Bear Good Fruit” and “Be Kind.”

Ryan Behmer Director of Student Life

On the cover: Mya Pierre, Aurora Grimwade & Azy Carrillo, 2023 Graduates

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from the editor Each day we face a choice. Relinquishing our entire day, every moment to the Lord or holding on to certain things that we don’t entirely trust the Lord for. I’m going to give Him everything BUT…maybe not my finances, or my health, or my spouse, or my addiction. We want to hold on, don’t we?

You know… Abram struggled with the same thing. Now Abram trusted the Lord with almost everything! He moved his family away from everything they knew and loved, travelled a difficult and long journey, and asked the Lord for guidance every step of the way. Except for when it came to his beautiful wife Sara. He didn’t quite believe that God would protect her from the eyes of rich rulers. So, he lied.

His intention was honoring—he wanted to protect his wife.

But really, he trusted that God was going to make him into a great nation but didn’t believe that the God of the universe would also protect the person who was most dear to him?

I remember singing a song when I was a child, “God will make a way when there seems to be no way, He works in ways we cannot see, He will make a way for me.”

I need to wake up every morning singing this song. He WILL make a way…even when there seems to be no way.

At Phoenix Christian, His provision has been remarkable. He has made a way so many times especially when there seemed to be NO WAY. He is so faithful, but we forget. We think maybe He doesn’t care about this area. Maybe He doesn’t understand this situation. He does and He WILL—yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

Isaiah 43:19: For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it?

I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.

Lisa Blake Director of Alumni Relations & Marketing

Volume 21 • Winter 2024

COUGARNOW ONLINE

SUPERINTENDENT

Jeff Blake

Read this and other issues of CougarNow at phoenixchristian.org.

EDITOR

Lisa Blake

DESIGN

Brian Cole of Designflux.co

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Dorian Studios, Caroline’s Photography @a.cproduction

CONTRIBUTORS

Kay Allison, Steve Woods of PrintWoods

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chip Allison, Stephanie Brigowatz, Anthony Converti, Juan Gonzales, Pete Hamstra, Hallie House, Steve Woods

We’d like to hear from you. Send your emails to cougarnow@phoenixchristian.org.

To support this online & print publication, please visit phoenixchristian.org/support.

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Be KIND People Project We now have a common focus and language that unifies the grades and brings an awareness of how we should act.

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Our world is changing. When you turn on the news, watch TV, or listen to

conversations around you, there are examples, one after another, of stories of hurt, injury, or pain. The world seems to have forgotten the simple lessons of being kind to one another.

During the 2023-2024 school year, Phoenix Christian elementary has accepted the challenge to build a culture of kindness. Through partnerships with The Be Kind People Project, our staff and students focus on 10 essential skills of kindness. The year started with the BE KIND Dance crew and Baxter from the D-Backs hosting an interactive assembly to teach us what kindness means. During the assembly we pledged to:

Be Encouraging, Be Supportive, Be Positive, Be Thankful, Be Helpful, Be Honest, Be Considerate, Be Responsible, Be Respectful, and Be a Friend.

Each month, we highlight a different Kindness skill in Chapel and the classroom. Our morning starts with shout-outs for teachers and students who we “caught” demonstrating kindness skills. As an administration, we visit the classes to teach specific character education lessons. The month culminates with Star Student awards, where each grade recognizes a student who best exhibits that month’s kindness skills.

Cultivating a shift in culture takes time and persistence. Gradually, one can observe emerging indications of a fresh outlook and mindset permeating the entire campus. The other day, as I was walking near the playground, Anna, one of our 1st graders, called out, “Mrs. Sianturi, look, I am picking up trash.

I just wanted to be kind.” Elementary teachers have shared that through this initiative, we now have a common focus and language that unifies the grades and brings an awareness of how we should act. The daily shoutouts and monthly star students motivate our students to reach new goals. 3rd Grade Teacher, Mrs. Newhall shared, “It is a morale boost each morning to start the day with recognizing students in positive ways.”

As with any goal, we have room to grow and improve, but we are also learning that when we make mistakes, we can apologize and forgive. Our theme verse for the year is Ephesians 4:32: “Be Kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving each other, as God in Christ forgave you.” Ultimately, the key to kindness is Christ.

Our prayer is that as we grow in the knowledge of Christ and His saving work, then together, we can grow in our kindness one to another.

- Charity Sianturi, Elementary Principal, MSEd

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HOMECOMING

2023

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During Homecoming Weekend,

we experienced an unprecedented turnout, and the entire weekend was a beautiful celebration of God’s continued work at Phoenix Christian.

The morning was filled with joy as we gathered to celebrate the blessings of Phoenix Christian. Our alumni were inspired by the time of worship and the moving words of guest speaker and alumnus, John Culea, during the chapel service. The newly renovated McChesney Cafe and Learning Center welcomed visitors with its refreshed ambiance. The alumni brunch was a special time of reconnection, made even more memorable with a visit from our elementary sign and worship team.

Our students had an action-packed morning with chapel, powder puff games, and an electrifying pep assembly, which further exemplified the unity and spirit of our school community.

As the day unfolded, we all came together for dinner and a carnival in the courtyard.

Senior night was a heartfelt tribute to our graduating students, and our Cougar football team delivered an incredible performance, defeating Kingman by an astonishing 41

points. Half-time was a time for nostalgia as we honored the 2003-2004 Championship Teams in football, baseball, tennis, and cheer and our Grand Marshall, Coach Jim Rattay.

Saturday, alumni from all over the country gathered for their class reunions.

I was especially moved by the powerful testimonies of God’s faithfulness by several from the Class of 1973. What a powerful reminder of the Lord’s unfolding transformation in our lives.

The Homecoming Weekend culminated in the Cougar Classic at Mountain Shadows, where we were fortunate to have many alumni join us. We are thrilled to share that we doubled our raise at the Cougar Classic, a significant achievement that we are incredibly thankful for.

To our cherished alumni, friends, and families, we want to express our deep gratitude for the vital roles you play at Phoenix Christian.

Thank you for being an integral part of Phoenix Christian. Together, we are making a meaningful difference, and we look forward to the promising future that lies ahead.

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ATHLETICS HIGHLIGHT

X AV I E R S A N D O VA L :

A BEACON OF HOPE Xavier's Senior year kicked off with an unexpected challenge—a broken ankle.

While many would have taken this setback as a sign to step back, Xavier faced it head-on.

His determination and commitment to the sport and his team were evident as he worked tirelessly to recover in time for the first game of the season. Little did he know that this would only be the first chapter in a season that would define his character.

The resilience of Xavier was put to the test once again during the third game of the season.

A diagnosis of compartment syndrome, a serious condition that threatened to end his season prematurely, could have easily shattered the resolve of any athlete. However, Xavier proved to be made of different metals. Despite the adversity, he never missed a practice, demonstrating a level of dedication that went beyond mere physical prowess.

What sets Xavier apart is not just his prowess on the football field but the strength of his character as a young man. His ability to remain a positive force within the team, even in the face of personal challenges, speaks volumes about his leadership qualities. Instead of succumbing to frustration or despair, Xavier chose to become a mentor for the young players striving to fill his shoes.

His guidance and encouragement became a beacon of hope for those navigating the demanding landscape of high school football.

In the eyes of his teammates, coaches, and the entire Phoenix Christian football program, Xavier Sandoval emerged as more than just a player. He became a symbol of courage, resilience, and unwavering faith. His actions reflected a deep-rooted

belief in something greater than the game itself—a faith in God that sustained him through the toughest of times.

The honor of having Xavier in the program goes beyond the statistics and touchdowns. It extends to the lasting impact he left on the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of witnessing his journey. His story serves as a reminder that true greatness is not solely measured in victories on the field but in the way one handles adversity and continues to inspire those around them.

Athletic Director and Men’s Varsity Basketball Coach shared, “Xavier is a remarkable young man and a major leader on our campus. Despite facing a potentially career ending injury this past football season, his

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unwavering faith in Jesus and his determination and commitment to recovery have led him back to our varsity basketball program's starting PG. Xavier's journey is a testament to his character and serves as a source of inspiration for our entire athletic program.”

As Xavier moves on from his high school football career, the legacy he leaves behind is a testament to the power of resilience, leadership, and faith. His ability to rise above challenges and emerge stronger, both as an athlete and a young man, will undoubtedly leave an enduring mark on the Phoenix Christian football program and serve as an inspiration for future generations of players.

- Jason Kindred, Head Varsity Football Coach

“Xavier’s journey is a testament to his character and serves as a source of inspiration for our entire athletic program.”

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2023 FALL SPORTS

REVIEW Varsity Football

Our High School and Middle School football season was nothing short of spectacular, filled with many thrilling games. It was a truly unforgettable season for both players and Cougar fans. A huge thanks to Coach Kindred and Coach Edouard for leading our football programs!

The Varsity team finished with an 8-3 record and the Middle School boys made it all the way to the semi-finals!

MS Football Dream Team

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Varsity Volleyball

The girls Middle and High School volleyball season was marked by a commendable spirit of rebuilding as teams navigated challenges and embraced change. Thanks to Coach Lyndee Johnson for fostering a positive atmosphere of growth and teamwork. The season showcased a promising foundation for future success! Our Middle School A team took runner-up in the CCSL championship!

Middle School A Team – CCSL Runner-Up

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METAMORPHOSIS

This assignment was unnatural, just like the story itself.

Before reading Kafka’s The Metamorphosis, where Gregor, the narrator, has inexplicably woken up as a giant insect, the students were given five learning objectives (Trace the change experienced by Gregor’s family members, draw conclusions regarding Kafka’s view of both totalitarianism and capitalism, support or refute the opinion that The Metamorphosis is a “timeless” story, note the significance of recurring pairs of three in the novella, Understand the features of an existential viewpoint)and three main themes (isolation, transformation, and existentialism) to annotate and react with during the in-class reading. They had to have three separate colors to highlight the themes found in each section and ask questions within the text related to the learning objectives.

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The Golf Team finished Top Ten in the state.

After the reading, students were tasked with picking one of the learning objectives and creating their writing prompt. The goal is to have students interact with the text enough to have questions. Once the students created their questions, they were asked to type it into an AI generator and bring that response to the classroom. The next step was for each student to write their original prompts on the whiteboard where, as a class, we could discuss how we would write the essay, what examples we would use, and quotes that support the argument. Then the AI response was read and students critiqued it based on what was a good thought and what was wrong. Students then had to find one great point made and create a three-paragraph response using the novel, a visual aid based on the essay, and a presentation to the class.

The purpose of this assignment is threefold:

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Get students to interact with the text with a critical eye.

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Understand that critical analysis cannot be done without a critical mind—which AI does not have. It is only through God’s creation of us that we are able to think critically, question and create original pieces. Everything else is merely a copy of something less unique than we were created to be.

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Adjust original thoughts and craft new understanding through multi-layered cognitive thinking.

This project will hopefully influence students and help them recognize that taking time to think, create and produce their own work may take longer, but is more worthwhile than the easy road that produces less value.

- Mrs. Christine Fox, AP English Teacher MA English, MA English & Creative Writing

1751 W. Indian School Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85015