Elevate Magazine - 2017-18 SCA Annual Report

E L EVAT E FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

SHERWOOD CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 2017-18 ANNUAL REPORT

ON THE COVER Theater Production, Mary Poppins

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Todd Stone

FOCUS on FINE ARTS

Welcome FROM THE HEADMASTER Welcome to this year’s edition of Elevate, the annual report of Sherwood Christian Academy. At the end of the 201718 school year, we celebrated our 33rd year of ministry to greater Albany. It was a year filled with many stories of achievement, life change and impact. I am truly grateful for all that God has done in our midst this past year, adding to our rich heritage dating back to 1985.

Our focus for this edition is the fine arts. SCA enjoys a long tradition of excellence in fine arts. We celebrate the accomplishments of members of the Class of 2018 who participated in the fine arts throughout their years in high school, recap the year on stage, then highlight the many contributions of Vickie Knuckles, Jackie Byrd, Christine St. Jacques and Cassandra Golden. Their collective investment has meant a great deal to so many who enjoy and support the arts at SCA. Additionally, you will see stories involving students and faculty members who are engaged and fulfilling our mission in the areas of academics, athletics and missions, like 3rd grade teacher Janice Golden, who just completed her 31st year of teaching, including a dozen at SCA. We celebrate our state cross country champion Joy Kendrick (Class of 2022), a girls’ varsity track state championship, along with a state championship in chess, all under the leadership of James Byrd.

You will also read about a team that traveled to Uganda to minister in the name of Christ.

You will also read about the accomplishments of valedictorian and salutatorian of the Class of 2018, Casey Gregors and Will

Alderman. We share inspiring stories about junior Andrew Sanders and middle school brothers Phillip and Patrick Shayeb. Finally, we catch up with two of our distinguished alums—Anna Dorminey Shafer (’06) and Kamaya Herring (’17)—and their collegiate and professional pursuits along with their strong walks with Christ.

I hope you will see throughout these pages that God has been at work at SCA—most importantly, in the 34 students who have made first-time commitments to Christ this school year!

Though great things are happening in the classrooms, on the stage, and on the court and field, it is the souls of young people that will now spend eternity in heaven that pleases me most. At SCA, our primary aim is to lead students to Christ, to build them up in Christ in every area, and to send them out to serve Christ in a world that desperately needs Christ! It is my prayer that God will continue to use us to reach the next generation of young people in Albany for Christ. To God be the glory!

DR. BRIAN DOUGHERTY MATTHEW 6:33

NEWSIES p. 22

Contents ELEVATE 2017-18 Fine Arts 06

The Fantastic Five SCA graduates stand out

22

Newsies SCA’s performance of Newsies

in fine arts.

inspired everyone to fight for what is right and seize the day.

24

Mary Poppins Take a look behind the scenes

26

Middle School Productions SCA presented

School Life 14

Spiritual Life A school set apart.

28

Homecoming Relive Spirit Week and Homecoming night.

30

Event Highlights SCA students participated in the Great Turkey Race, Elementary Field Day, Sherwood Cup and Christmas Bazaar.

of the production of Mary Poppins.

Beauty and the Beast Jr. and Blast from the Past.

Academics 10

Academic Recap See who made the list of

12

College Prep Life Prep SCA introduces new

13

Goal Update House Bill 217 has impact on GOAL

Missions 16

Uganda SCA partnered with With Open Eyes to serve

18

Community Service Days Middle and high school students helped clean up downtown.

Headmaster’s Scholars and Principal’s Scholars.

program for college prep.

Scholarship Program.

in Africa.

19

Keep Albany-Dougherty Beautiful SCA received the prestigious Beautification Award.

p. 21

RECORD Breaker

STAN SMITH Becomes leading scorer in school history UGANDA MISSION TRIP p. 16

Athletics 20

Athletics Recap Review what happened this year in

21

Record Breaker Stantravious Smith excels on the

sports.

basketball court.

21

State Champions SCA Chess Team wins state title in inaugural year.

Spotlights 32

Seniors Casey Gregors & Will Alderman

33

Underclassman Andrew Sanders

34

Middle School Phillip and Patrick Shayeb

35

Faculty Janice Golden

36

Fine Arts Teachers Christine St. Jacques, Vickie

39

STAR Teacher Sabrina Davidson

40

Alumni Anna Dorminey Shafer, Class of 2006

43

Conversations Kamaya Herring, Class of 2017

HOMECOMING p. 28

Knuckles, Jackie Byrd & Cassandra Golden

ALUMNA ANNA SHAFER p. 40

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

THE FANTASTIC FIVE WRITTEN BY Christine St. Jacques, Director

SCA’s graduating class of 2018 is replete with talented students. Many of them achieved high standards of academic excellence, represented our school well with their talents in our athletic program, and served the Lord in our community

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Todd Stone

and mission work. They also were extremely active in the fine arts. In fact, more than three quarters of the Class of 2018 participated in the fine arts in some way during their four years at SCA.

class of 2018

SENIORS DREW BOYETT & WILL ALDERMAN

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DIRECTOR CHRISTINE ST. JACQUES & SENIOR WILL ALDERMAN

SENIORS DREW BOYETT AND EVAN BAILEY WITH BRYNN DAVIDSON AND EMILY WHATLEY However, none were more involved than Will Alderman, Evan Bailey, Drew Boyett, Linda Hill and James Smith. All five of these students were active in and dedicated to the program every year they attended SCA in high school, putting in countless hours in rehearsals, helping behind the scenes, and working to develop and refine their many talents.

DURING THEIR HIGH SCHOOL CAREERS AT SCA, THEY ALL EARNED LETTERS IN THE FINE ARTS, PLAYED IMPORTANT ROLES BOTH ON AND OFF THE STAGE, SERVED WELL AS LEADERS IN OUR FINE ARTS PROGRAM, AND HELPED THE PROGRAM GROW TO WHAT IT IS TODAY.

James Smith began participating in theater when he was in 7th grade and continued to perform in shows the rest of middle school and all four years of his

LINDA HILL & EVAN BAILEY high school career. James helped behind the scenes with sets and performed in many roles including the Bookseller in Beauty and the Beast; Mr. Phillips in Singin’ in the Rain; Lord Scrumptious and the Toymaker in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang; Horace Vandergelder in Hello, Dolly!; and George Banks in Mary Poppins.

These roles showcased his strong stage presence, versatility as an actor, and remarkable singing voice. He also became a talented dancer, even though he didn’t have much opportunity to share that on stage. James is planning to attend the University of North Georgia.

Linda Hill has been in various musicals since her 5th grade year at SCA, and she participated in high school

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musical theater all eight semesters of high school. She has whole-heartedly and faithfully served in many roles on stage and behind the scenes. Linda shared her contagious smile; attention to detail; and strong acting, singing and dancing ability with audiences in Beauty and the Beast; Singin’ in the Rain; Chitty Chitty Bang Bang; Hello, Dolly!; Mary Poppins (Mrs. Brill); and Newsies (Henry/Bowery Beauty). She also helped with sets, costumes, organization and choreography coaching. In the fall, Linda will be attending Georgia Southern University and majoring in interior design. She hopes to continue to participate in the arts in the future.

Evan Bailey did not come to SCA until his junior year, but he has been a dedicated and dynamic part of the fine arts at SCA. He participated in musical theater all four semesters he was at SCA, entertaining audiences with his grin, comedic timing, powerful dancing and keen artistic talents in Hello, Dolly! ( Waiter/Policeman); Another Night on Broadway (Crutchie/Enjolras/Beast/ Sweep); Mary Poppins (Robertson Ay); and Newsies (Davey). He also sang in the boys’ trio for spring literary this year.

They placed second at region. Evan has served the Lord in the community as a member of the youth worship team and the adult choir at Sherwood Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS Baptist Church and spent his summer as the intern for the children’s ministry there. He feels called into ministry and plans to pursue this call and further his education at Truett-McConnell University.

Drew Boyett was this year’s female recipient of the first-ever Senior Fine Arts Award. Drew participated in musical theater all eight semesters of her high school career and was involved in middle school fine arts for three years. She has been a vibrant and enthusiastic part of our fine arts department and has shared her superb talents by helping behind the scenes with choreography and by playing many roles on stage, including Kathy Selden in Singin’ in the Rain; the Baroness in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang; Mary Poppins in Mary Poppins; and Katherine Plumber in Newsies. She also was part of spring literary for three years, singing girl’s solo this year and as a member of the girls’ trio that won first place at region two years and second this year. The trio also placed at state competition two of the three years.

In addition to her roles at SCA, Drew represented our school well in the community. She sings on the worship team at her church, has danced with Murphy Dance Studio since she was two

SENIORS DREW BOYETT, JAMES SMITH AND WILL ALDERMAN IN CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG years old, and has participated in many of Ballet Theatre South’s yearly performances, including The Nutcracker (five times), Alice in Wonderland (twice), Peter Pan and Snow White. Drew plans to continue her education at Mercer University this fall and desires to continue to be active in music, dance and theater in the future.

EVAN BAILEY, LINDA HILL, DREW BOYETT, JAMES SMITH & EMILY WHATLEY ELEVATE | 2017 . 2018

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CAST OF CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG

Will Alderman was this year’s recipient of the first-ever male Senior Fine Arts Award. Will participated in musical theater all four years of his high school career and was involved in middle school fine arts for two years. His hard work, amazing talent and dedication were evident on stage in his portrayals of Cosmo Brown in Singin’ in the Rain; Caractacus Potts in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Cornelius Hackl in Hello, Dolly!; Bert in Mary Poppins; and Jack Kelly in Newsies. Will also assisted behind the scenes by building sets, helping with creative concepts and problem solving, and student directing. He sang boy’s solo in spring literary this year and has served as an actor on the Kids Rock Team at Sherwood Baptist Church for three years. Will is attending Lee University in the fall, plans to join the Marines, and later serve the Lord with the International Justice Mission.

SENIORS EVAN BAILEY AND JAMES SMITH WITH EMILY WHATLEY

IN OUR HIGH SCHOOL FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT, WE ALWAYS ENCOURAGE OUR STUDENTS “NEVER TO SETTLE FOR GOOD WHEN EXCELLENCE IS ATTAINABLE.” Will, Evan, Drew, Linda and James have taken this to heart. They not only performed with excellence on the stage, but also have pursued excellence in their walks with the Lord and their daily lives. We are so proud of and thankful for these five graduates, as well as all the members of the class of 2018 who contributed to the fine arts program at SCA over the past four years. We look forward to seeing all that God will do in and through them in the future. //

SENIORS WILL ALDERMAN AND EVAN BAILEY WITH DAVID WILLARD -9-

Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

Academic Recap 2017-18 Principal’s Scholars (A/B Honor Roll)

Headmaster’s Scholars (A Honor Roll)

1st Grade

1st Grade

Lawson Brooks Gabby Brown Amora Bryant Kennedi Glass Caleb Grubbs Beau McBride Ella Kate Potts Landon Sharpe Jeremiah Southwell Jaedon Williams

2nd Grade

Brylee Fortson Ethan Bauman Levi Davidson Lilly Gatlin Maggy Haskins Anya Stephens Kenji Williams

3rd Grade

Caiden Gervin Gavin Halstead Makenna Mingo Raines Morton Justice Perryman Carlee Phillips Jenna Sanders Raeley Summerlin

4th Grade

David Albano Wesley Brooks Evan Carpenter Kennedy Dickerson Emma Dobson Micah Hall Lauren Harris Jada Higdon Evan Johnson Colton Mathis Riley Morey Anna NeSmith Lillian Peavey Tripp Roberts Landon Rogers Addie Skidmore Brayden Widener Ethan Young

ELEVATE | 2017 . 2018

5th Grade

Collyer Alderman Henry Anderson Victoria Huckaby Caleb Kendrick Madyson Mims Addison Mingo Keegan Swilley Ariana Whitmire

6th Grade

Julia Barnhill Kaelin Bush Easton Enfinger Emerson Montgomery Raelyn Porter Hope Usher

7th Grade

Graham Anderson Kenna Brooks Eddie Carpenter Kennedy Daniels Arabella Davidson Walker Flowers Dortey Koffie Connor Mathis Caroline Orr William Price Maggie Roberts Sydney Sanders Lily Urick

8th Grade

Autumn Cox Beckham Davidson Stephen Drake Austin Dyes Johnathan Ham Joy Kendrick Brantley Kunkle Kyla Raven Cameron Rollins Johan Ruiz Garcia Joshua Sancinito Pamela Walker

Laney Heard Collin Phillips Hayden Rish Ana Skidmore Julia Warbington

10th Grade

Maddie Allen Logan Brooks Payton Brooks Landon Davidson Zachary Davidson Colin Dougherty Ivey Evans Maddie Evans Randi Harrelson Catherine Kendrick Andrew Orr Emma Urick

11th Grade

Abby Adams Holly Drake Anna Kendrick Burch Langstaff Rebecca Martin Caroline Mathis Addison Pollock Andrew Sanders Emily Walker Olivia Williams

12th Grade

Alyson Adams Madyson Chambers William Crawford Linda Hill Gracyn Holt Tyler Hughes James Smith Cade Tillman Lara Katherine Todd Martha Vickers Dristen Watford

Jordyn Ban Jayda Bolden Elise Dobson Taylor Hunt Lauren Johnson Eli Kirkman Ty Langley Natalie Layfield Elaine Pettit Christopher Reid Julia Revell Kate Roberts Lizzy Roberts Emerson Rolle Nolan Sheets Javan Treadaway Gigi Vega

2nd Grade

Ava Bryan Sydney Dampier Lauren Greene Sophie Logan CJ Pettiford

3rd Grade

Emma Baker Lily Barnhill K.J. Bevel Julia Kendrick Grace Warbington Lauren Watson

4th Grade

Kyra Bevel Brody Brown Kuba Cecil Aziah Harrison Ashley Haskins Madison Keen Will Kroll Kennedy Morton Jack NeSmith Devin Sheppard

5th Grade

Luke Bergrab Noah Butler Alexandra Collins Jordyn Gibson William Greene

9th Grade

Jurnie Auguste Natalie Brock Mikayla Burnett

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Brantley Griffin Brandon Haire Mason Johnson Lydia Sancinito David Willard

6th Grade

Hannah Albano Miley Clements Josie Davidson Peter Kendrick

7th Grade

Eric Bergrab Hudson Carter Owen Henshaw Mallory Holmes Ethan Johnson Anna Kroll Rebekah NeSmith Patrick Shayeb Alana Waters Mikayla White

8th Grade

Caroline Dougherty Ethan Kelley Jacob Lindsey Marci Scardino Phillip Shayeb Victoria Vega John Mark Willard

9th Grade

Olivia Dunne Trent Johnson Elizabeth Montgomery Sammy Scardino Thomas Waller

10th Grade

Conner Knuckles Ja’Niaya Loud Alex McComas Carter Ricker Charlie Taylor Christian Walker

11th Grade

Hannah Huckaby Alexis Kelley Zachary Pride

A YEAR TO BE PROUD OF 10 ACSI Distinguished Christian High School Students

16

Honor Graduates

91

Students made Headmaster’s Scholar List through third term

123

Students made Principal’s Scholar List though third term

159

(Headmaster’s Scholars continued) Nathanael Sancinito Emma Warbington Emily Whatley Skyller Whiddon

Students made Headmaster’s Scholar list at least one grading period

12th Grade

Will Alderman Brynn Davidson Casey Gregors Ivy Wilson

226

Students made Principal’s Scholar list at least one grading period

144 Scholar Athletes 20 Students made All-Region 10 Students made All-State

Highest Numeric Averages 6th Grade 5th highest

10th Grade Julia Barnhill

5th highest

Ja’Niaya Loud &

4th highest

Peter Kendrick

Colin Dougherty

3rd highest

Miley Clements

4th highest

Carter Ricker

2nd highest Josie Davidson

3rd highest

Conner Knuckles

Highest

2nd highest Alex McComas &

Hannah Albano

7th Grade

Christian Walker

Highest

Charlie Taylor

5th highest

Patrick Shayeb

4th highest

Mallory Holmes

11th Grade

3rd highest

Rebekah NeSmith

5th highest

Hannah Huckaby

2nd highest Ethan Johnson

4th highest

Andrew Sanders

Highest

3rd highest

Emily Whatley

Eric Bergrab

2nd highest Nathanael Sancinito

8th Grade 5th highest

Highest Ethan Kelley

Principal’s Scholars 31 Middle School 41 High School 51 Elementary

Emma Warbington

4th highest

Marci Scardino

12th Grade (Cumulative High School)

3rd highest

Victoria Vega

5th highest

2nd highest Jacob Lindsey

4th highest

Dristen Watford

Highest

3rd highest

Brynn Davidson

Caroline Dougherty

Headmaster’s Scholars 21 Middle School 22 High School 48 Elementary

Gracyn Holt

Salutatorian Will Alderman

9th Grade

Valedictorian Casey Gregors

5th highest

Jurnie August

4th highest

Olivia Dunne

3rd highest

Thomas Waller

2nd highest Elizabeth Montgomery Highest

Sammy Scardino

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Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

College Prep / Life Prep WRITTEN BY Dr. Brian Dougherty, Headmaster

Since its inception, Sherwood Christian Academy has defined itself as a distinctly Christian school within the context of a college preparatory program. Academic rigor fully integrated with Biblical truth offered at SCA results in a powerful educational experience that enables our graduates to engage and excel in today’s culture. ur diploma, donning an accreditation stamp from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), is fully recognized by the state department of education and is accepted at institutions of higher learning throughout the country.

Practically speaking, our 900-plus graduates have been given an education that has afforded them the opportunity to attend the college of their choice. Our list of college acceptances over the years has become quite impressive. We are pleased to hear how well our graduates are doing in college due, in part, to the college prep education they have received at SCA. Recently in the educational literature and news headlines, there has been an increase in emphasis on soft skills as essential preparation for college and career. Soft skills, which are categorized as intangible and nontechnical skills, include, but are not limited to: interpersonal skills, communication, teamwork, problem solving, character, leadership, professional dress, professional etiquette, diligence, time management, attitude, listening, dependability, and punctuality.

These skills have always been important, but their current level of deficiency in the workplace has brought them to the forefront. To better equip our graduates with these and other necessary skills to succeed in college and the workplace, we have developed two, semester-length courses that will be offered beginning with the Class of 2020 called Junior and Senior Seminar. We view these essential courses as Life Prep to complement our College Prep program.

Students will be connected with SAT and ACT preparation websites and calendars with upcoming testing dates. The importance of test preparation and a potential plan will be emphasized. A job shadow day will be included in the junior year to help students take a closer look at potential majors and careers.

Students will also be given the opportunity to complete the Common College Application accepted by many colleges nationwide. These are just some of the guidance pieces that will be included in this course. Additionally, members of our athletic department will speak to student-athletes about the prospect of playing sports in college and the necessary steps to make that dream a reality.

The remaining time in the course will focus on soft skills development. Professionals from the community will join our staff as presenters and teach many of these important skills and help our students see their direct application to their futures. We will be using valuable online resources as well as those found at the Georgia Best (dol.georgia.gov/georgiabest) website. These professionals will include a human resources expert, a personal marketer and a few business leaders in the community. It promises to be a rich experience for our juniors.

In the senior year, these guidance and professional topics will be expanded. A check-up on the college admissions timeline will help both students and the guidance office stay on track.

Information regarding scholarships, application requirements and corresponding deadlines will be presented. Résumés, cover letters and interviewing skills will be covered. A job shadow day in the senior year will allow students to experience a second area of interest before graduation.

This fall, juniors will spend about four weeks with introductory information to the college search process.

Students will create accounts and complete their profiles on the Georgia Futures (GAfutures.org) website. This website is a valuable resource to every student in Georgia interested in attending college. They will investigate the vast information included within regarding college planning, financial aid and career exploration. A timeline for the college admissions process will be presented to the students to help them see the need to start right away in the junior year.

A focus on Biblical leadership will instill in our students the need to be influencers in their personal and professional lives. Lastly, Campus Pastor Jeremy Davidson will share a unit on “What You Really Need to Know Before You Graduate” to speak practically about life after high school. We believe these two courses will greatly enhance our educational program to be both College Prep and Life Prep. //

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A six-week, mini-course in personal finance will be included to help our students understand Biblical stewardship as well as the practical aspects of money management.

2017-18

Financial Spotlight As we recap the financial year, we are blessed to have God’s hand of favor on our school as He provides for us through faithful friends and families of SCA. As our school continues to grow, so do our opportunities to minister. Giving you an update on resource allocation is part of our accountability to you and ourselves. In summary, tuition rates for the 2017-18 school year were $7,656 per elementary student (1st-5th) and $8,280 per secondary student (6th-12th). Total tuition and fees collected this year was $2,568,250 based on 390 students. We are blessed to have 32 qualified and dedicated teachers who are committed to the mission and vision of SCA. The average teacher compensation (salary and benefits) for 2017-18 is $36,343. Employee compensation accounts for 64.9 percent of our expenses.

EXPENSES

3%

3%

ATHLETICS

FOOD SERVICE

2% TRANSPORTATION

8%

ADMINISTRATIVE

10%

FACILITIES

69%

5%

INSTRUCTIONAL

2%

WAGES/BENEFITS/ PAYROLL TAXES

REVENUE 1% 1%

TRANSPORTATION

MISC.

ATHLETICS

5%

FUNDRAISING

5% FOOD SERVICE

86% TUITION/FEES/STAR

Thank you for your faithful support over this past school year. We are excited about what the future holds for SCA. We covet your prayers and continued support as we strive to have a ministry that honors Christ in every way. //

In the final hours of the 2018 legislative session, Georgia lawmakers made a groundbreaking investment in Georgia families, taxpayers and GOAL participating school communities by passing House Bill 217, which was then signed and made law by Governor Nathan Deal in early May 2018. House Bill 217 will increase the annual cap on the Georgia Education Expense Credit Program from $58 million to $100 million for the next decade! This is great news for SCA students and families. This is, by far, the largest expansion of this program since its inception, and at least for the next few years, this development should significantly increase the proration percentage that our donors are allowed to contribute to GOAL each year.

In summary, Sherwood has shared a $59 million benefit with other GOAL participating schools each year, with our share of contributions being “pro-rated” each year. SCA’s donors have been able to contribute 40-55 percent of their desired donation to scholarships at the school.

For 2018, that resulted in $85,817 from nearly 70 different donors.

Now, with $100 million available, our donors will be able to contribute an estimated 75-80 percent of their desired donation, resulting in greater funds being available for use by our families and students.

Here are some interesting facts about the GOAL program at SCA: · In 2018, contributions were $85,817 (up from $70,516 the previous year) · In the nine years SCA has participated in GOAL, donors have contributed $1,180,083 to the program. That means more than $1.1 million in 100percent tax credits to our donors, as well as $1.1 million available to help families attend SCA · SCA has received 846 contributions in those nine years · In the 2017-18 school year, 18 students were receiving GOAL aid and each received an average of $3,004 to help with their tuition · 67 percent of GOAL recipients are from families with adjusted gross incomes of less than $24,000 per year – students that may otherwise not be able to attend SCA · A total of 105 students have received GOAL aid since SCA has been participating The GOAL program is a program by which Georgia taxpayers may redirect up to $2500 of their Georgia state tax liability to a private school of their choice. This happens in the form of an application approved by the state, then a contribution to SCA, followed by a 100 percent tax credit the following year for the amount contributed. Most business entities (LLCs, Sole Partnerships, Sole Proprietorships, etc.) can participate with up to $10,000 in contributions and tax credits.

If you would like more information about this beneficial program, both to the contributor and SCA families, please contact Mike Johnston, Director of the Sherwood Foundation, at 229-669-4071 or mikej@sherwoodbaptist.net. // - 13 -

Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

Spiritual Life at SCA

A School Set Apart WRITTEN BY Nathanael Sancinito, Class of 2019 SCA’s emphasis on Christian education sets it apart from public schools and most private schools.

The word “Christian” means more than just a Bible class or chapel. Our headmaster, teachers and staff truly care about our spiritual wellbeing.

ach week, the teachers meet to pray and write prayer cards to students.

I personally received a set of prayer cards from several teachers. I was surprised to know they would take the time to lift up my personal prayer needs.

Within the athletic department, coaches try to grow our spiritual walk while improving our skill in the sport. I have always recognized the teachers, staff and coaches personally living out their walk with Christ as an example to students.

One of the ways SCA promotes spiritual growth in its students is to establish a theme each year. This year’s theme was “Walk Worthy,” inspired by Philippians 1:27

This year’s theme was “Walk Worthy,” inspired by Philippians 1:27 which says, “Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ … standing firm in one’s spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.”

which says, “Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ … standing firm in one’s spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel.” During weekly chapel sessions, the messages were centered on how students can apply this theme to their walk with Christ. Our speakers included ELEVATE | 2017 . 2018

Dr. Dougherty, Campus Pastor Jeremy Davidson, guest speakers and the student chaplains. I was personally encouraged by this theme as I was chosen to be the student government chaplain. I felt the Lord prompting me to inspire my fellow students to display a more Kingdomfocused mindset. One blessing this year was a great group of Christian guys who prayed for our student body and came alongside the grade-level student chaplains to fulfill the same calling that God had given me.

During the first semester of school, we enjoyed the ReFRESH Conference at SCA. The pastor of Connect Church of Algiers in New Orleans, Ryan Rice, came and spoke to the student body. He spoke about laying down the worldly things that are holding us from walking worthy with Christ. Instead of the things of the world, he said to focus on loving all people and seeing them through the lens of God.

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In the second semester, we had Spiritual Emphasis Week. During that week, a former Sherwood pastor, Stephen Dervan, shared with us what God had put on his heart for the school. He described living whole-heartedly for the Lord and stamping out the fakeness that can so easily be worn. He also called us to be men and women of Christ and stressed the importance of giving time and energy to our relationship with Christ.

The spiritual life at SCA isn’t just confined to a weekly chapel and the special seminars though. Every day in our academic classes, we are taught about God’s influence in history, His design of the universe through math, and the indisputable truth of creation in science.

I personally appreciate how the teachers and other students are open to discussing worldviews and theories in order to discern the truth.

Steps in spiritual growth often come from Bible class. This year, the juniors studied Systematic Theology, a class based on studying the big topics and doctrines of the Bible. This class opened my eyes to how big and powerful God is and has helped me to understand the goodness of His character.

SCA has definitely influenced my spiritual walk this year. The atmosphere of SCA holds us to a high standard of behavior.

Jesus is truly the center in every part of our school.

Everyone is encouraged to honor God in all areas of life. My classmates and I are confident that we have been instilled with the Biblical principles that will set us up for success and keep us grounded with our walk with the Lord beyond high school. // Nathanael Sancinito is the son of Chuck and Kim Sancinito and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church.

IT’S A GOD THING

34 salvations this year

ELEMENTARY STUDENTS AND PARENTS PRAYING AT SEE YOU AT THE POLE - 15 -

Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

a d n a ug MISSION TRIP

WRITTEN BY Alexis Kelley, Class of 2019 and Hannah Grace Kavanaugh, Class of 2018 THIS YEAR, SHERWOOD BAPTIST CHURCH PARTNERED WITH STUDENTS FROM SCA FOR A MISSION TRIP TO UGANDA, AFRICA. WHILE SERVING THE PEOPLE OF UGANDA, WE WERE ALSO ABLE TO SATURATE OURSELVES IN A NEW CULTURE AND LEARN HOW GOD IS WORKING IN THE LIVES OF PEOPLE HALFWAY ACROSS THE WORLD.

uring this trip, we learned a lot about contentment. James 1:2 says, “Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds.” The people we were working with were in a refugee camp away from the home they loved and longed for in South Sudan because war had forced them to leave. Many of them had lost loved ones and were beyond poor, but they were some of the most joyful people we have ever met. They truly praised the Lord in all they did.

They worked hard, to the best of their abilities all day, and even the kids were content to sit and play in the dirt when they weren’t helping their parents. Meeting them showed us how content and joyful we can be when we firmly trust in the One who is in complete control no matter where we are.

GETTING TO KNOW THEM AS WE PUT IN AN IRRIGATION SYSTEM AND MADE PORTABLE PACKETS FOR THEM TO PUT SMALLER ONES IN THEIR OWN GARDENS SHOWED US HOW HARD THEY WORKED AND HOW EAGER THEY WERE TO HELP. We also sewed personal items with some of the women and gave them a sound system for their church. Their loud worship to the Lord was moving and a privilege to experience. We were there to serve them, but we quickly realized they also wanted to serve us. From providing us food out of what little they had to washing our hands, the people of Uganda taught us what it means to humbly serve. // Alexis Kelley is the daughter of Brian and Dee Kelley and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church.

Hannah Grace Kavanaugh is the daughter of Scott and Mandy Kavanaugh and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church.

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WITH EYES WIDE OPEN

Partnering with Sherwood on this mission trip to Uganda was With Open Eyes, a Christian organization that works with missionaries around the globe. Their mission is to “accelerate the sharing and teaching of the good news of Jesus Christ to the unreached and underserved peoples of the world.”

With Open Eyes has mobilized 351 mobile messengers, seen 244,176 salvations, and planted 455 churches since 2011.

Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

COMMUNITY SERVICE DAYS WRITTEN BY Chris Vega, Class of 2018 SINCE STARTING CORPORATE COMMUNITY SERVICE DAYS IN THE MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL, SCA HAS BEEN ABLE TO PARTNER WITH LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS TO HELP AND SERVE THE COMMUNITY IN A VARIETY OF WAYS. This past school year, SCA partnered with Keep Albany-Dougherty Beautiful (KADB) to help be the hands and feet of Jesus to a neighborhood downtown. On October 6 & 13, middle school and high school students were able to help by picking up trash, pressure washing and painting Grace Emmanuel Church of God in Christ and some houses in the surrounding neighborhood.

Our students, in addition to helping serve in these ways, were also able to minister to the neighborhood kids.

To organize the work teams, students were put into several different groups by Campus Pastor Jeremy Davidson. As a result, students were able to serve alongside close friends as well as get to know other students with whom they normally wouldn’t hang out. During lunch break, some students fellowshipped with each other and others visited and played with the children in the surrounding area.

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“it makes me feel good because we’re serving god and giving him all the glory,” 8th-grader Beckham Davidson said of his experience with Community Service Day. Both middle and high school students were able to do just that through their actions and attitudes by loving on the people of downtown Albany. // Chris Vega is the son of Bill and Mayumi Vega and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church.

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the joy of serving WRITTEN BY Brenda Keefe, Guidance Counselor

IN 2010, WE ADDED A COMMUNITY SERVICE COMPONENT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AT SCA. THIS MEASURE WAS ADDED TO HELP DEVELOP THE JOY OF SERVING AND TO PROVIDE A VALUABLE PIECE TO THEIR COLLEGE RÉSUMÉS. Since we had been training our students since elementary school that serving others is the hallmark of a Christian, this stipulation was relatively easy to add to our graduation requirements. Jesus made it clear—to be great in God’s kingdom, we are to be last and servant of all (Mark 9:35).

Over the past four years, the Class of 2018 performed more than 6,800 hours of community service. On graduation night, we presented 13 members of the Class of 2018 with medallions for their exceptional work throughout our community and beyond.

For more than 250 hours of community service throughout their high school years, Gracyn Holt, Wesley Pollock, James Smith and Martha Vickers received a silver medallion. For more than 350 hours of community service throughout their high school years, the following students received gold medallions: Will Alderman, Evan Bailey, Drew Boyett, Madyson Chambers, William Crawford, Brynn Davidson, Hannah Grace Kavanaugh, Brisa Rodriguez and Ivy Wilson.

The types of community service performed vary every year.

This year, our high school students were active in their home churches by serving on worship teams through leading music.

They also served in the nursery and children’s areas as well as Vacation Bible School. Students enjoyed packing shoeboxes for the Samaritan’s Purse Operation Christmas Child project again this year. Others earned community service hours volunteering at WinShape Camp, which was held on the SCA campus. Students were busy assisting with both middle and high school fine arts productions and volunteering at athletic events. Again this year, seniors had the opportunity to be on-campus mentors to the elementary students. Other students went into Albany serving the Albany Rescue Mission, Mission Change, Lee County Health and Rehabilitation Center and the Lord’s Pantry. Outside Albany, several students served other ministries while on mission trips to Atlanta, Baltimore, New Orleans, New York City, Savannah, Germany, Holland, Peru and Uganda.

KEEP ALBANY DOUGHERTY BEAUTIFUL AWARD On January 11, SCA received one of the prestigious 2017 Environmental Awards at the Keep Albany-Dougherty Beautiful Annual Volunteer Luncheon. SCA was pleased to accept the Beautification Award presented by Albany Mayor Dorothy Hubbard and Dougherty County Commissioner Chris Cohilas.

Our secondary school was recognized for its community service day project on October 6 to the people in the area around Bonneyview & Merritt streets for the Fight the Blight initiative in downtown Albany. Students numbering 240 along with eight class sponsors completely repainted Grace Emmanuel Church of God in Christ, two storage buildings, some basketball goals, four nearby duplexes as well as picked up trash in the surrounding lots. It was a massive work effort!

Nearby residents came by and personally thanked the students for improving their neighborhood.

Accepting the award for SCA were high school student council officers Brisa Rodriguez, Brynn Davidson, Casey Gregors, Nathanael Sancinito and Burch Langstaff. Many thanks to all of the participants of our fall community service day for helping SCA earn this prestigious award! //

WE TRUST THAT ALL OF OUR STUDENTS WILL CONTINUE SERVING OTHERS AS A TANGIBLE EXPRESSION OF THEIR CHRISTIAN FAITH AND THEIR LOVE FOR CHRIST. //

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Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

Athletic Recap 2017-18 Varsity Girls Cross Country

1st in Region Individual Region Joy Kendrick - 1st Anna Kendrick - 3rd Caroline Mathis - 6th Catherine Kendrick - 9th State Runner-Up Individual State Joy Kendrick - 1st Anna Kendrick - 4th

Varsity Boys Cross Country

2nd in Region Individual Region Jordan Roberts - 5th Nathan Roberts - 6th Collin Phillips - 8th Individual State Collin Phillips - 7th

Middle School Girls Cross Country Individual State Joy Kendrick

Jr. Pro Boys Cross Country

State Runner-Up Individual State Christian Jackson - 1st Brandon Haire - 6th Caleb Kendrick - 7th Mason Johnson - 9th

Jr. Pro Girls Cross Country Individual State Julia Kendrick - 1st

Varsity Football Record 0-8 All-Region Caleb Wiley Ketavion Curry

Varsity Volleyball

Record 11-9 3rd in Region Prostyle Tournament Champions State finish - lost in first round All-Region Gracyn Holt

Varsity Boys Basketball

Record 16-10 CFCA Tip-Off Champions Region Champions State Finish - lost in final four All-Region Colin Dougherty Stantravious Smith All-State Stantravious Smith

Varsity Girls Basketball

Record 13-12 3rd in Region State Finish - lost in first round All-Region & All-State Ivey Evans

Middle School Boys Basketball Record 10-3

Varsity Girls Track

State Champions 1st in Region Individual State 3rd in 400-Meter Dash, 3rd in Long Jump Ashanti Harrison 1st in 3,200-Meter Run, 2nd in 1,600-Meter Run Joy Kendrick 3rd in 100-Meter Hurdles Addy Wilson 2nd in High Jump Blythe Gunter 1st in Shot Put Ke’Mia Starling

Individual State 6th in 100-Meter Hurdles 8th in 300-Meter Hurdles Hudson Carter

Middle School Girls Track

Individual State 2nd in 800-Meter 1st in 1,600-Meter 3rd in 300-Meter Hurdles 3rd in High Jump Joy Kendrick

4x400-Meter Relay Team - 1st Place Ashanti Harrison Anna Kendrick Catherine Kendrick Joy Kendrick

Record 14-4-1 Region Champions State Runner-Up

4x400 Meter Relay B Team - 5th Place Maddie Evans Hannah Huckaby Alexis Kelley Symone Rhyme

4th in Triple Jump Addy Wilson

Varsity Boys Soccer

All-Region Anthony Adams Beckham Davidson Landon Davidson Zachary Davidson Evan Eldridge Collin Phillips All-State Anthony Adams Landon Davidson Evan Eldridge Collin Phillips

Middle School Boys Soccer Record 8-3-0

Record 1-13 5th in Region

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STAN

TRAV IOUS SMITH GRAC YN H OLT

Middle School Boys Track

5th in Long Jump Victoria Vega

Varsity Baseball ELEVATE | 2017 . 2018

Individual State 2nd in 3,200-Meter Run Collin Phillips

4x100-Meter Relay Team - 3rd Place Blythe Gunter Ashanti Harrison Hannah Huckaby Symone Rhyme

Middle School Girls 7th in 3,200-Meter Run Basketball Alexis Kelley Record 12-1 Region Champions State Champions

Varsity Boys Track

Senio r Award Athlete Winn ers

Varsity Girls Soccer

Record 15-2-1 Region Champions6 straight State Runner-Up All-Region Maddie Allen Natalie Brock Ivey Evans Blythe Gunter Hannah Huckaby Catherine Kendrick All-State Natalie Brock Ivey Evans Blythe Gunter Catherine Kendrick

Middle School Girls Soccer

Record 7-4-1 Region Champions

Record Breaker

State Champions

STAN SMITH

SCA CHESS TEAM

On December 19, senior Stantravious Smith was honored in front of his home crowd before taking on Covenant Academy for reaching the 1,000-point milestone for his basketball playing career at SCA. He reached it the previous Friday versus John Hancock Academy at the Fullington Christmas Tournament.

Coach James Byrd and the SCA Chess Team won the state championship at the GICAA State Chess Meet in Greensboro on January 30. The team competed in a field of 10 teams from throughout the state. What an awesome accomplishment for this being SCA’s inaugural year competing in chess!

Smith reached this impressive milestone in just 34 games as an Eagle (junior year and one-third of senior year). He averaged just over 30 points a game at a clip of 55 percent. Additionally, he shot 75 percent from the free throw line, accumulated 110 three-pointers, and averaged 10 rebounds a game in his career.

The winning foursome, which included first chair, sophomore Charlie Taylor; juniors Nathanael Sancinito and Andrew Sanders; and sophomore Andrew Orr, defeated a talented team from Horizon Christian School (Cumming).

The SCA team was later invited to compete in the statewide (all schools) Chess Championship in the spring.

SMITH BROKE THE FOLLOWING SCA BASKETBALL RECORDS: Most points scored in a single game - 55 Most points in a single season - 861 Most points scored in a career - 1542 Highest points per game average for a single season - 33.19 Highest free throw percentage for a career - 75%

The entire team competed well with eight players making it to the final two rounds. Other members of the SCA Chess Team who competed were freshman Nathan Roberts, sophomore Addy Wilson and juniors Jared Guin, Skylar Whiddon and Reece Letchworth. Congratulations to the SCA Chess Team on bringing home the state trophy! //

“Stan has accomplished at a very high level in a very short period of time at SCA,” says SCA Basketball Head Coach Chad Evans. “His level of play is attributed to hard work and dedication in and out of season. Stan was never satisfied with his level of play and always strived to improve in all aspects of the game. Stan’s attention to details of skill improvement was met with equal attention to film breakdown, game study and mental preparation. Because of his focus on and off the court, Stan will continue to achieve at a high level as he sets his sights on college and professional basketball. It has been a true privilege to coach Stan for the last two seasons, and we wish him all the best as he pursues his dreams.”

Smith will play basketball at Middle Georgia Prep and will reclassify as a College Freshman in 2019. Congratulations to Stantravious Smith! //

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Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

NEWSIES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Todd Stone

SET IN TURN-OF-THE CENTURY NEW YORK CITY, NEWSIES IS THE CAPTIVATING STORY OF JACK KELLY, A CHARISMATIC NEWSBOY AND LEADER OF THE LOWER MANHATTAN NEWSIES, WHO DREAMS OF A BETTER LIFE THAT IS FAR FROM THE HARDSHIPS OF THE STREETS. When titans of publishing Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what’s right.

Based on the 1992 motion picture and inspired by a true story, Newsies features Tony Award-winning music by Alan Menken (who wrote the scores for the films The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast and Aladdin) and features the now classic songs “Carrying the Banner,” “Seize the Day,” “King of New York” and “Santa Fe.” “This is one of my all-time favorite musicals,” says artistic director and choreographer Christine St. Jacques. “It’s one I dreamed about doing for years, so I was thrilled to work with this cast and crew to present the story to our community. We had an amazingly talented group, and the show was great for the whole family. It’s full of memorable songs, energetic dance numbers and solid messages.”

The cast was made up of SCA students, as well as several adults from the community. Senior Linda Hill, who played one of the newsies, says, “If you’ve heard about the newsboys strike of 1899, then that basically tells you the story ELEVATE | 2017 . 2018

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of Newsies. It’s about a bunch of misfit teens and even children who have to go and work to eat and survive. When they realize that Pulitzer is trying to pull one over on them, they muster everything in them to fight what they know is wrong and stand up for themselves. The attitude of the play was a really cool thing to be a part of—to see how they were determined, even though there doesn’t appear to be a chance for them to win. The dancing was fun too, and it also shows the empowerment that they feel… Newsies is a very athletic show, probably the most that we’ve ever done, so being able to keep up and do most of the dancing was tough. But it was still my favorite part.”

Senior Will Alderman, also a senior, enjoyed playing the leading character, Jack Kelly. He says,

“JACK LEARNS SOME VALUABLE LESSONS. NEVER BE AFRAID TO FIGHT FOR YOUR DREAMS AND WHAT’S RIGHT. AND DREAMS AREN’T ABOUT A LOCATION, BUT ABOUT BEING WITH THE PEOPLE YOU LOVE.” Evan Bailey played Davey, a newsie who is Jack’s friend and another leader in the strike. Bailey says, “What I like best in the musical is probably the overall humor and energetic attitudes that every newsie has and uses.” When asked what his favorite part of being in the show was, he replied, “The dancing. This was a dance-heavy show and there was so much to memorize. And the show’s storyline draws you in. Just watching the Broadway version makes you want to get off your couch and dance along with them in the living room! It’s just that great of a show.”

“I wanted to do this musical ever since I saw it on Broadway.

This is my favorite show, and I was so excited to have the chance to be a part of it,” says Drew Boyett, who played Katherine, a spunky news reporter who backs the newsies and ends up falling in love with Jack Kelly.

Newsies was packed with nonstop adventure and a timeless message, perfect for the whole family and every audience. SCA’s performance of this Disney film turned Tony Award-winning Broadway hit inspired everyone to fight for what’s right and seize the day. //

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Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

BEHIND THE SCENES WRITTEN BY Andrew Sanders, Class of 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Todd Stone held at ASU West Campus theater. This was my first time ever helping with a production like this. I had participated in a few plays when I was younger, but I was never able to see what actually happened behind the red curtain until

This year I had the privilege of helping backstage with the high school theater production, Mary Poppins, directed and choreographed by Mrs. Christine St. Jacques. The cast practiced on SCA’s campus, but come showtime, the play was

mary poppins

MARY POPPINS, PLAYED BY DREW BOYETT

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now. When Mrs. St. Jacques asked me and a few other students at SCA to help, I didn’t know what to expect, but I soon found that I was in for a challenging, yet pleasant surprise.

Each rehearsal during the week, we would leave school early to go to the theater. While the cast got ready and put on their costumes, the stagehands prepared the set pieces and finished any last-minute repairs.

Then, for the next five hours, we would methodically go through every scene and every set change until we could run the play in our sleep. Mary Poppins has many set changes. James Byrd, coach and teacher at SCA, even told me while he was helping move sets backstage that in all the many years he had assisted with play productions, never had any play been more difficult to present than this one. But, I enjoyed the work and loved working with the people.

To say the cast was great is an understatement. I’ve never seen a group of people so happy and animated as they were before they got on stage.

The people running the lights and sound system also worked hard to make sure the atmosphere was perfect for each scene. Theater productions really are a team effort.

As showtime drew closer, everyone was ecstatic to see how the show would turn out. I have to say, though, one thing I didn’t know about being a stagehand is how last-minute some changes to set pieces are made.

Sitting out in the audience, you would have no idea that we actually had to paint an entire house set close to curtain call on opening night, and a kitchen wall as well. It was frantic work at the time, but later we all laughed about it because of our worry that the paint would still be wet when the cast used it in their scenes.

I can also say that I now have a great deal of respect for anyone in theater. It takes countless hours of work to prepare for a play, and it can be tense and stressful. But, in the end our work paid off, and Mary Poppins was a magical success – thanks to the talented cast, stagehands, Mr. and Mrs. St. Jacques and many others who worked behind the scenes. // Andrew Sanders is the son of Tom and Susan Sanders and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church.

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Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

FULL OF ADVENTURE & ROMANCE

Beauty and the Beast Jr. WRITTEN BY Alexis Kelley, Class of 2019

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Todd Stone

The time-keeping rose, conceit turned to love, and the book-loving beauty all set to classic music marked the “tale as old as time” that our middle school theater students presented this spring.

In this story set in a small French town, a man and his daughter live a “provincial life” with a limited library and an arrogant pursuer, until the father (played

by Connor Mathis) stumbles upon an enchanted castle complete with talking household objects and a beast. When he is taken prisoner, Belle (played by Josie Davidson) saves her father’s life by taking his place and must learn to look past the outward appearance of the Beast (played by Phillip Shayeb) when she starts to discover how much they have in common. Full of adventure, romance, risks, devious plans and lots of laughs, this play kept the audience hooked until the very end.

The cast and crew worked hard this year to perform three shows along with a sing-along for the elementary students during chapel, and even a Meet-and-Greet Breakfast with plenty of audience interaction. Taking pictures with and signing autographs for the young, dressed-up fans polished off a wonderful experience for the much-loved actors and actresses.

The audience was packed full of princesses and a few princes that sang along and enjoyed yet another remarkable production directed

by Mrs. Vickie Knuckles and her team of choreographers, tech crew and backstage coordinators. This rendition of Beauty and the Beast Jr. exceeded all expectations. // Alexis Kelley is the daughter of Brian and Dee Kelley and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church.

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Blast from the Past WRITTEN BY Christian Walker, Class of 2020 Everyone in the audience the night of Blast from the Past was taken back in time. The Middle School Drama Class danced and sang to hit songs from a time they never had the opportunity to know—the 50s and 60s. Students performed all of the best songs from these decades like “My Girl,” “Rockin’ Robin,” “The Twist” and “Surfer Girl.”

Guests enjoyed classic chili hotdogs, a cold soda, ice cream and had an endless supply of bubble gum while watching the show.

From young to old, all had smiles on their faces throughout the show. The older generation was able to reminisce to times when they sang and danced to the same songs, while the younger ones were able to learn new things from our world’s musical history.

Lonnie and Dorene Mathis, grandparents of 7th-grader Connor Mathis, said about the show, “They did a great job. We couldn’t do all they did up there. That’s what we like to call real music, and we really enjoyed it.”

As someone who participated in Blast from the Past for all three years in middle school, I can say it was one of the best times.

Learning all the songs and dances and wearing poodle skirts are unforgettable memories. From what was seen that night, every student in the show and every person in the audience looked like

they were enjoying every second. Blast from the Past is always a phenomenal show and is a tradition that students, parents and faculty look forward to every year. // Christian Walker is the daughter of Mark and Donna Walker and is a member of First Free Will Baptist Church.

FINE ARTS RECAP ONE ACT / The Glass Menagerie: Won 1st at Region and 2nd at State / When Shakespeare’s Ladies Meet: Won 1st at Region ONE VOICE / Sang at Disney Performing Arts on Stage, / Sang for Veterans Day / Presented the stage play Bah Humbug K3 and K4 / Presented end-of-the-year programs

BAH HUMBUG

K4 / Presented a Thanksgiving program K3 and K5 / Presented Christmas programs K5 / Graduation High School Drama Department / Performed Mary Poppins and Newsies Spring Literary Students / Participated in Region and State competition placing at both events Middle School Drama Department / Performed Beauty and the Beast Jr. / Performed A Blast from the Past Elementary School Drama Troupe / Performed A Year With Frog and Toad Kids 1st - 4th Grade / End-of-the-year program and awards ceremony 5th Grade / Presented a Wax Museum and awards ceremony //

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Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

homecoming WRITTEN BY Catherine Kendrick, Class of 2020

HOMECOMING WEEK: A WEEK THAT STUDENTS LOOK FORWARD TO EVERY YEAR. DURING THIS EXCITING TIME, STUDENTS UNITE WITH THEIR GRADES AND ENJOY SOME GENIAL COMPETITION.

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From dressing like their favorite food to “twinning” with a partner, students and teachers get a chance to show off their creativity.

While pep rallies are incorporated throughout the school year to help cheer on our athletes, the Homecoming pep rally is the biggest pep rally that’s held. This is when each grade presents the banner they’ve been working on all week. Students also compete to see who has the most school spirit through exciting games and chants.

HOMECOMING WEEK IS A CHANCE FOR GRADES TO BECOME ONE AND WORK TOGETHER TO EARN SHERWOOD CUP POINTS. The whole week builds up to the big Homecoming night. This is also where the members of the Homecoming court are presented on the field.

To be on the court is an honor. These members were chosen by their classmates to represent their grades. The Homecoming court is composed of great students who are known for their influence and Christlike character. This year, the senior Homecoming court members were Brynn Davidson, Gracyn Holt, James Smith, Evan Bailey, and King and Queen William Crawford and Drew Boyett. // Catherine Kendrick is the daughter of Alex and Christina Kendrick and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church.

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Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

GREAT TURKEY RACE

ELEMENTARY FIELD DAY

WRITTEN BY Brisa Rodriguez, Class of 2018

WRITTEN BY Ivy Wilson, Class of 2018

Each year around the holidays, SCA students give both nonperishable items and monetary donations to the Lord’s Pantry to help meet the needs of others in our community.

Field Day is a highly anticipated day by many elementary students.

This is a special day set aside to have fun and come together as a class to enjoy exciting new games and relay races prepared by Coach Rebecca Fyock.

To motivate students to go above and beyond with their donations, the Student Council adds in a fun incentive to this food drive, which we call the “Great Turkey Race.” Before we begin collecting donations, each grade sets a monetary and food goal. As a bonus, the grade that brings in the most food and money receives Sherwood Cup points. SCA students almost always surpass these set goals. This year as a school, we raised more than 4,000 food items and $5,350.

Coach Fyock has helped make it not necessarily about winning, but a special time where teamwork is cultivated and Christlike servanthood is shown. Each year, high school students are designated to each station to help run the games and encourage the children. Since Field Day takes place on campus, this is an opportunity for the upperclassmen to set an example and encourage some of the younger students.

The Great Turkey Race is such a fun event for our students, and while winning extra Sherwood Cup points is exciting, it’s important to remember why we do events like this. Service is a huge part of who we are at Sherwood, and it is the lives that were changed and the needs that were met because of our donations that truly matter. Thank you to every family that participated in our annual food drive. It was a blessing to many in our community! //

Field Day will always be a tradition filled with many great memories for years to come! // Ivy Wilson is the daughter of Scott and Kelley Wilson and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church.

Brisa Rodriguez is the daughter of Caesar and Rocio Rodriguez and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church.

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SHERWOOD CUP

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR

WRITTEN BY Logan Brooks, Class of 2020

WRITTEN BY Alexis Kelley, Class of 2019

Sherwood Cup is the most exciting event of the year.

This year, Parent Connections hosted a new event at SCA called the Christmas Bazaar.

The competition for the Cup doesn’t begin on Sherwood Cup Day, but at the beginning of the year. Grades battle for points on theme T-shirt days, pep rallies, Homecoming week and the Great Turkey Race. It is essential that grades take advantage of these points before the games begin.

Sherwood Cup Day consists of many different events challenging students’ intellectual and athletic abilities.

Students battle it out in kickball, ultimate Frisbee, chess, sword drill, dodge ball, handball, ping pong and many other events to win points for their class. “Sherwood Cup is one of the most intense events of my high school career,” said one student. “Sherwood Cup brings classes together and allows them to grow closer.”

Vendors lined the walls of the gymnasium, and members of the SCA family as well as the community attended. While parents shopped, children enjoyed bouncy houses and games.

Some of the items for sale included wreaths, ornaments, signs, T-shirts, jewelry, hats and several pieces of art. As a vender who participated, the experience was well organized and a great way to sell some of my items, and even just to create awareness for people that I was selling things to raise some money for the upcoming mission trip to Uganda. The SCA Christmas Bazaar was a fun and successful event! // Alexis Kelley is the daughter of Brian and Dee Kelley and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church.

Each year, Sherwood Cup is made possible by the Student Council and class sponsors. This year for middle school, 7th grade won the cup. And for the high school, the sophomores were the winners. As a sophomore and this being my first Sherwood Cup, it will definitely be one of the most memorable highlights of my high school career. // Logan Brooks is the son of Dawn Brooks and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church.

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Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

Senior Spotlight

Valedictorian & Salutatorian PHOTOGRAPHY BY Todd Stone Sherwood Christian Academy held its 29th commencement exercises for the Class of 2018 on May 18 at Sherwood Baptist Church. Casey Gregors and Will Alderman were valedictorian and salutatorian respectively for this year’s graduating class.

aledictorian Casey Gregors graduated with honors with a 4.0 GPA and will be attending the University of North Georgia in Dahlonega as a biology major. Recognized this year as SCA’s STAR student, Casey excels academically as a member of the National Honor Society, an SCA Headmaster Scholar for four years, ACSI Distinguished Christian High School Outstanding Achievement Award winner, and Student Council President. She was chosen as the Senior Female Leadership Award winner. Casey has attended SCA for 13 years. She is the daughter of Joe and Tammy Gregors and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church.

Salutatorian Will Alderman graduated with honors with a 4.0 GPA and will be attending Lee University in Cleveland, TN, as a political science major. Excelling both academically and athletically, Will has been one of SCA’s Headmaster Scholars and Scholar Athlete for four years. He is a member of the National Honor Society, ACSI Distinguished Christian High School Outstanding Achievement Award winner, Class President for three years, four-year letter winner in football and three-year letter winner in soccer. Will also received the Senior Fine Arts Award for an outstanding career in theater as ELEVATE | 2017 . 2018

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well as the coveted Senior Male Eagle Award, and a gold medal of recognition for exemplary community service throughout high school. Will has attended SCA for 14 years. He is the son of Troy and Carly Alderman and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church. //

Underclassman Spotlight

Andrew Sanders WRITTEN BY Cassandra Golden, High School Teacher PHOTOGRAPHY BY Todd Stone I know Andrew as a quiet young man who I consider to be trustworthy and hard working. I have never questioned his faith, or that he is a genuine Christian. His work is excellent, he always has a smile on his face, and he seems to be friends with everyone he meets. owever, I know there is more to Andrew, so I decided to see what his friends and teachers had to say about him. I learned some interesting things about this upcoming senior.

First, I heard nothing at all negative about Andrew. Everything I have seen was echoed by those who see him every day. “He is faithful, kind and willing to serve,” “a quiet leader, leading more by actions than words.” I heard about his excellence in the classroom and on the ball field. I also heard about his humility and loyalty. Many of his peers talked about his deep friendships, and how Andrew looks for the good in those around him, willing to help whenever possible. I heard about his love for baseball, but that he doesn’t consider himself an exceptional athlete…several people told me that Andrew is much more talented than he believes.

And, of course, I learned a few new things. Andrew plays the banjo! And Andrew is passionate about showing Christ’s love for others. During the terrible storms of 2017, Andrew spent countless hours helping people he didn’t even know removing debris and offering a helping hand. Andrew is very active in his church and his community. And he does these things because he loves the Lord, not to earn man’s praise.

After asking several of his classmates what makes Andrew “tick,” I heard the most fitting description from friend and classmate Nathanael Sancinito:

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“Andrew spends more time studying school and the Bible than any guy at Sherwood.” He also added that, because of his love for the Word, “one thing most people don’t know about is Andrew’s hatred for apathy, and his passion for awakening within the church.” I was in awe of that final statement. If more of our young people could find that passion, think of what a change we would see! If there is a person who quietly works behind the scenes to impact the world, Andrew Sanders fits that description.

I have learned some wonderful things about a student that I simply placed in the “good kid” category. Yes, Andrew is a good kid, but it is his love for Christ, his commitment to God’s work, and his dedication to others that make him a godly young man. Nathanael concluded it well, “I’m lucky God gave him to me as a friend.”

I think all of us are glad that Andrew is such a light at SCA, and I am blessed to know the deeper side of this remarkable young man. // Andrew Sanders is the son of Tom and Susan Sanders and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church.

Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

Middle School Spotlight

The Shayeb Brothers WRITTEN BY Lisa O’Connor, Middle School Science Teacher The ideal of a “Renaissance Man” is the belief that one’s education should span multiple fields. These areas should include the arts and music, athletics and leadership, travel and culture as well as rigorous academics.

SCA strives to foster these qualities in all of our students as we partner with families in molding Christlike leaders who are truly well rounded. hillip and Patrick Shayeb represent this ideal well. Phillip is a rising freshman and Patrick a rising 8th grader.

Only 15 months apart, Phillip and Patrick are brothers who share many qualities. Both have participated in multiple middle school stage productions this year, with Phillip commanding several lead roles, including the Beast in Beauty and the Beast Jr. They both are members of the SCA basketball and soccer programs. The brothers both study music in addition to their other extracurricular activities; Phillip plays piano, while Patrick studies guitar.

In the classroom, both Phillip and Patrick excel. They are A Honor Roll students and both earned the Headmaster’s List distinction this year for maintaining A’s all year. Patrick was awarded the fifth highest GPA in the 7th grade. Phillip held a leadership position in middle school as an Eagle Ambassador.

Phillip participated with a team of peers who received Quiz Bowl and Geography Bowl awards.

The Shayeb family has given Phillip and Patrick the opportunity to travel. As a result, the brothers love experiencing new cultures, food and places. They have had the opportunity to travel throughout Europe, and this summer will be visiting Turkey and Lebanon. The Shayebs, who are originally from Lebanon, still have a number of family members who reside there. Phillip and Patrick are looking forward to visiting cousins and other extended family members this summer whom they have not seen in some time.

While sharing many similar interests and qualities, Phillip and Patrick are most definitely unique individuals. Phillip dreams of studying business in the future, while Patrick thinks he might like to become a lawyer. Phillip loves history, while Patrick prefers science. Phillip is likely to be seen giving high fives and hugs to elementary students who chase him down the hall, because they think he is the prince from Beauty and the Beast Jr. Kind and gentle with a reserved style, Phillip is also much loved by the younger students - and also his peers.

Patrick is high energy and an extraordinarily good dancer with a wonderful sense of humor and handsome smile. He is also likely to be grinning as his science teacher reminds ELEVATE | 2017 . 2018

him it’s time for class and to take his seat. Yet, both of these boys have been designed by God with unique gifts, talents and personalities to be used for His glory.

I have had the privilege of teaching science to these young men over the last several years. They are what we hope to develop at SCA – modern day Renaissance Men – who represent our school, their families and Christ well. // Phillip and Patrick Shayeb are the sons of Mr. and Mrs. Tal Shayeb and are members of St. Teresa’s Catholic Church.

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Faculty Spotlight

JANICE GOLDEN WRITTEN BY Cassandra Golden, High School Teacher PHOTOGRAPHY BY Todd Stone met Janice two years before I married into the Golden clan, but I didn’t realize her connection to my future husband. We both worked at Byne Memorial Baptist School, but worked in different buildings. In fact, we only saw each other occasionally, and then she moved to Thomasville after she married Huey Golden. The next time I saw Janice was at my future husband’s house. I was there to meet his three brothers, and I was thrilled to see someone I knew in the midst of the Golden family chaos! When Huey and Janice moved back to Albany, and she returned to Byne as a middle school teacher, our working friendship quickly grew, and I now consider her one of my closest friends.

They say you can’t choose your family, but the Lord graced me with a wonderful friend in Janice.

SISTER-IN-LAW, FRIEND, TEACHER EXTRAORDINAIRE

We have been blessed to teach each other’s children, something for which I am very grateful. I know that she poured Christ into them every day and was a positive influence of each of them. In fact, Janice has been impacting the lives of children for a long time.

Janice is a graduate of Pensacola Christian College, and she has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. She has been in the classroom for 31 years, with the majority of that time in the third grade. Janice is a passionate teacher. Her students love her, and their parents value her impact on their lives. Janice brought her 19 years of experience at Byne to Sherwood 12 years ago and has continued to shine as a teacher.

I had the opportunity to observe Janice in her classroom this past spring. I loved the color and life in her classroom. The students were reciting their Bible verse for the week, and as the others worked, there was a wonderful spirit of calm among the class. I could see that the students enjoyed what they were doing. They were organized, and everyone knew exactly what was expected of them. I know that comes from Janice’s diligence and love for them.

I have also worked with Janice on our new writing program, and her commitment to excellence is evident. We will spend many hours working on that program throughout the next year, and she is willing to implement new materials and invest time and energy to make sure her students grow as writers and thinkers. She wants them to be given every opportunity to have the best education possible.

I asked Janice why she chose to work in a Christian school. She is well qualified to work in other places including public schools, and there are more opportunities for advancement in that setting. Janice said that she spent a year in public education when she lived in Thomasville and she didn’t find the fulfillment she found in the Christian school. In a Christian school, she added, “I enjoy the Christian atmosphere, teaching the Bible and praying with students and parents. Most importantly, we have a Christian world view in our curriculum.” And that sums up everything about Janice Golden’s impact in the classroom. While academics are important, there is much more to her purpose at SCA.

Janice loves children, and she wants them to know Christ, love Him, and live for Him. // - 35 -

Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

SHERWOOD’S SHINING STARS WRITTEN BY Dr. Brian Dougherty, Headmaster

PHOTOGRAPHY BY Todd Stone

EDUCATIONAL RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS THE FACT THAT SCHOOLS OF EXCELLENCE ARE CHARACTERIZED AS HAVING QUALITY FINE ARTS PROGRAMS. WE ARE PROUD THAT SCA IS IN THAT CATEGORY! IF YOU HAVE SEEN OR EXPERIENCED ONE OF OUR FINE ARTS PROGRAMS, YOU KNOW THAT WE HAVE SOMETHING SPECIAL THAT SETS OUR SCHOOL APART.

FINE ARTS TEACHERS

SCA’S OUTSTANDIN G F IN ARTS TEACHER E S

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e are so grateful for a rich history on the stage, in choral music, and in the visual arts. But this specialness doesn’t just happen. God has brought some very dedicated and talented individuals over the years to lead our fine arts to make them what they are today. Our legacy includes the likes of Laura Lovejoy, Terri Catt, Kathleen Hemkin, Renee Jewell and Stephen Hand to name a few. Today, we are blessed to have Vickie Knuckles, Jackie Byrd, Christine St. Jacques and Cassandra Golden leading our program.

Vickie Knuckles began her time at SCA in 1992 as the elementary music teacher. She later expanded her role to include middle school chorus and drama. Interestingly, she was the director of our very first high school musical (The Boyfriend). Her favorite musical to direct at SCA was Beauty and the Beast.

Mrs. Knuckles also directs our One Act plays as well as Spring Literary in the high school. Under her leadership, SCA has taken home many individual and group awards including first place in region in One Act in 2012 (Steel Magnolias) and 2017 (When Shakepeare’s Ladies Meet). For the record, Steel Magnolias finished second at state.

If you know Mrs. Knuckles personally, you know she always has a flare for the dramatic. Her love for the stage was instilled by her father at an early age.

Mrs. Knuckles shares, “I have always wanted our students to be given every opportunity in the arts that we can offer. I never want to use the excuse ‘we are a small school’ when equipping our students and their talents. I strive for excellence in all that is done through the arts at SCA and give the glory and honor to God.”

VICKIE KNUCKLES

Mrs. Knuckles’ annual Disney trip is a highlight for our middle schoolers.

The opportunity to sing praise songs on the public stage at Disney has been a unique witnessing tool since 2004. Additionally, Mrs. Knuckles has taken several middle school groups to sing at the Governor’s Mansion in Atlanta.

Furthermore, Mrs. Knuckles directs annual Thanksgiving and Christmas programs, spring plays and end-of-the-year programs in the elementary grades.

MRS. KNUCKLES TRULY TOUCHES EVERY PART OF OUR SCHOOL THROUGH HER PROGRAM. HER SUMMER DRAMA CAMPS HAVE ALLOWED SCA TO REACH BEYOND OUR WALLS INTO THE COMMUNITY. If you see Mrs. Knuckles in her element, chances are Jackie Byrd is not far away. Mrs. Byrd just completed her 29th year at SCA. She has been involved in the fine arts in one capacity or another every year since the start. Her primary focus has been Musical Theater, One Act and Spring Literary. Mrs. Byrd says, “Being involved in the fine arts brings me great joy because the Lord allows me to work with and witness students doing things they never thought they could do. Fine arts is a wonderful outlet for the extrovert, and a great opportunity for the introvert to learn and stretch themselves.” Her support role has been vital to the success of so many shows and performances. I believe the close friendship between Mrs. Knuckles and Mrs. Byrd is the special ingredient that allows them to accomplish amazing things in the lives of their students.

Christine St. Jacques is the third member of our fine arts team. Mrs. St. Jacques began working at SCA under the leadership of then-Director Stephen Hand in the production of Seussical the Musical in 2012. After Mr. Hand moved to South Carolina, we invited Mrs. St. Jacques to assume the role of director of our high school musicals. She and her team have done an excellent job of directing such shows as Singin’ in the Rain, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Hello Dolly!,

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CHRISTINE ST. JACQUES Mary Poppins and, most recently, Newsies. Her passion and commitment have continued the upward trajectory of our shows. Her forte is choreography—the dance numbers in her shows have been exceptional. Mrs. St. Jacques and her husband Aaron have been involved in theater for many years together.

The opportunity to work with our students in a Christian school setting is a joy to them.

Mrs. St. Jacques says, “More than anything, I love working with the students. I have learned so much from teaching them and am thankful for the fun times and friendships that have come out of our theater adventures together.”

Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS She adds, “Seeing the students growing personally, artistically and spiritually while having fun and achieving things they never thought they could is incredibly inspiring and fulfilling. I’m excited to see all that God will do in the arts at SCA in the future!”

The final player on the fine arts team is Cassandra Golden. Mrs. Golden has been involved in fine arts at SCA for 12 years. She directed six shows and co-directed two others with Lindsey Sanders. Her favorite show was Seven Brides for Seven Brothers in 2009. Mrs. Golden has also been a mainstay in our visual arts—she has been the high school art teacher since arriving at SCA in 2006.

UNDER THE DIRECTION OF MRS. GOLDEN, THE ART CLASSES HAVE CREATED SOME INCREDIBLE SETS FOR OUR SHOWS. HER TIRELESS COMMITMENT TO FINE ARTS IS DUE TO HER LOVE FOR THE ARTS AND HER STUDENTS. However, the fine arts at SCA is more than just putting on a great production—it’s all about investing in our students to help them reach their full potential. Over the years, the fine arts have meant a great deal to our students. Graduate Seth King (’15), who played the lead Don Lockwood in Singin’ in the Rain, shares that his favorite takeaway was working with underclassmen. “Meeting students in different grades along with building relationships with adult volunteers impacted me greatly. To this day, I hold memories that I’ll tell forever! I’m very thankful for the impact that Sherwood’s fine arts program had on my life.”

JACKIE BYRD

Recent graduate and Senior Male Fine Arts Award winner, Will Alderman, who played such leads as Caractacus Potts (Chitty Chitty Bang Bang), Bert (Mary Poppins) and Jack Kelly (Newsies) says, “Being in fine arts pushed me out of my comfort zone. It allowed me to do things I never thought I could do. My experiences on the stage at SCA complemented my academic and athletic careers. I appreciated the teachers that poured into me, especially Mrs. Golden who always encouraged me during the stress of preparing and performing on the stage.”

Graduate Hannah Thompson (’15), who, among other roles, played the Cat in the Hat (Suessical the Musical) and Ouiser Boudreaux (Steel Magnolias), shared that being a part of the fine arts at SCA instilled confidence in her public speaking ability as well as underscored the importance of community with others who had similar passions. She says, “I loved being on stage with my friends and siblings, and this bond and the memories is something I will always share with them.”

AS HEADMASTER, I AM THANKFUL FOR THE INCREDIBLE INVESTMENT OF SHERWOOD’S SHINING STARS IN OUR FINE ARTS PROGRAM THAT HELPS SCA BE A SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE. //

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CASSANDRA GOLDEN

SABRINA DAVIDSON

STAR TEACHER WRITTEN BY Casey Gregors, Class of 2018 I HAVE HAD THE HONOR OF KNOWING MRS. SABRINA DAVIDSON EVER SINCE MY 9TH GRADE YEAR. I KNEW FROM THE VERY BEGINNING THAT SHE WAS GOING TO BE ONE OF THOSE TEACHERS THAT WOULD GREATLY IMPACT MY HIGH SCHOOL CAREER.

went into her classroom on my first day of high school as a terrified freshman and discovered a caring, passionate teacher who would become like a second mother to me.

Over the years, Mrs. Davidson and I have gotten to know each other through Bible studies, mission trips and lunch meetings.

Her passion for reaching teenage girls for Christ is one clearly seen in all that she does. She is compassionate, transparent and honest which are all qualities that teenage girls desperately desire and need to see in role models.

Apart from being an amazing mentor, Mrs. Davidson is an amazing teacher. She differentiates her lessons in order to present her students with knowledge in ways that are enjoyable and retainable. She brings her English lessons to life through the use of skits, drawings and movies that allow classic stories to be

recalled even once our high school career has ended.

We have many talented and devoted teachers at SCA which made it hard for me to choose just one as my STAR teacher.

I chose Mrs. Davidson because I cannot even begin to explain the impact that she has had on my spiritual and academic life. Her being in my life was clearly an act of God down to every detail.

I KNOW THAT HER MOVE TO ALBANY WAS NOT AN EASY ONE, BUT I AM SO THANKFUL THAT SHE FOLLOWED GOD IN DOING SO BECAUSE I DO NOT KNOW WHO I WOULD BE WITHOUT HAVING HER IN MY LIFE THESE PAST FOUR YEARS. // Casey Gregors is the daughter of Joe and Tammy Gregors and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church.

SERVICE AWARDS Congratulations to the following faculty and staff members who received service recognition awards for 2017-18.

Sharon Howard: 40 years Sylvia Hager: 30 years Brenda Keefe: 25 years Nancy Sadler: 20 years Amy Hatcher: 15 years Donna Walker: 10 years Matthew Sheets: 10 years Peggy Bullock: 10 years Lisa O’Connor: 10 years Nicholas Priest: 5 years

Thank you all for your service to SCA and our students!

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Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Anna Shafer WRITTEN BY Wendy Bellacomo PHOTOGRAPHY BY Rosalinda Dauval When Anna Dorminey Shafer’s debut young adult romance The Beholder is published next spring on June 4, 2019, under her pen name, Anna Bright, it will be the culmination of five years of writing and rewriting, rejection and resolution, determination and dreams. She describes the story as “Cinderella meets the Odyssey,” a fantasy that retells familiar fairy tales in a fresh way. In the novel, her heroine sets out on a journey across the Atlantic, navigating the rough waters of political alliances, friendship and love. Shafer’s journey as a writer has had its own struggles, but her story is proof positive that talent and imagination, combined with a lot of hard work and perseverance, can create a wish fulfilled. What was once just a spark of an idea will soon be a book she can hold in her hands.

Although her title of author will be a new one, it seems that Shafer has always had an inner drive to excel. By all accounts, she was a standout student in her years at SCA. She cheered for five years, participated in student government, served as editor of the yearbook, held the title of Miss SCA and graduated in 2006 as valedictorian of her class. She is quick, however, to credit her teachers for their guidance and inspiration.

“What strikes me the most looking back is how much the teachers there really cared for their students, and how they worked to set us up for future success. One person that believes in you can make such a big difference,” Shafer says.

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hafer remembers math teacher Kathy Rivers as exceptional. “She loved math, and she loved us. She took an intimidating subject and tried to make it fun and accessible.”

would need the support of some strong female friends. I built friendships with a bunch of wonderfully dorky, intense girls like me and felt much more at home.”

In that more relaxed state, her creativity blossomed. As often happens, it was at an idle time that the ideas began to surface. “I was blow-drying my hair one day,” she laughs, “when I got the first seeds of the idea for The Beholder.”

Shafer also enjoyed a close relationship with her Spanish teacher, Joy Joiner. “I still remember how she treated me like an adult. That was so important to me at the time. She even took me out for coffee after I graduated, just to check in with me and see how college was going.”

Shafer chose not to attend graduate school, and, instead, began writing her book.

Reared in a family of devout believers, including her parents and grandparents, Shafer also recalls SCA as a key part of her spiritual foundation.

“At SCA I wasn’t getting mixed messages at home and at school. I had teachers that really cared about me and that took the time to have individual conversations about faith and love.”

The years at SCA also yielded many valuable experiences. Her stint as yearbook editor nudged her out of her comfort zone as a self-professed “word person” and helped her get more in touch with her visual side through photography and design. Through cheerleading she made good friends and enjoyed being physically active.

“I’m not naturally athletic, but it was good to find something I could do to help me stay healthy. The setting and the relationships were enough to get me moving and keep me in shape.”

After graduating, Shafer attended Georgia Tech where she majored in International Affairs and Modern Language. There she encountered a world much different than high school.

“I thought freshman year would kill me with the heavy load of math and science,” she recalls. She also had to adjust to the sheer size of the male-dominated student population. “At Tech we had 3,500 people in a graduating class instead of just 35. I decided to join a sorority because Tech is about 70 percent male, and I realized I

full for the first time in a very long time. It was as if I were unclenching my mind.”

She went on to make the most of her time at Georgia Tech and graduated with highest honors in 2010.

This time in her life was significant for another important reason as well. That summer she married her husband, Wade, and they settled in together in Washington, D.C. The two had met through a mutual friend, and, Shafer says, Wade was supportive of her writing from the beginning, agreeing to let her try writing full-time.

Her initial plans were to continue on to graduate school to pursue a master’s degree in English and land a job in the publishing world.

“He has always treated my writing as a career, not a hobby. He had worked for a start-up before and treated my writing the same way.

Having the support of a spouse when you’re doing unconventional work is extremely valuable,” Shafer says.

Of course, to garner a spot in graduate school she first had to pass the GRE and the English literature GRE. She approached the intimidating tests as she had everything else in her academic life so far – determined to succeed. She studied nonstop for four months, spending all of her reading time on scholarly subject matter. After she passed the GRE and the English exam and was accepted into both Georgetown and Catholic University, Shafer decided to turn her attention to some lighter reading fare.

The fall after she married, Shafer decided to get serious about her novel and chose November as her official start date because it was National Novel Writing Month, also known as NaNoWriMo. Participants in this annual, internet-based creative writing project attempt to write a 50,000-word manuscript between November 1 and November 30. Shafer prepared ahead of time, making copious notes and setting up Pinterest boards for ideas.

“I just wanted a fun book as a break from all of the intense reading I had been doing,” Shafer says. She picked up The Host

by Stephenie Meyer and, before she knew it, she had devoured 800 pages in barely a single afternoon. “My imagination just felt

“I sat up until midnight that Halloween, and then I started,” she recalls. “I had no idea how to begin, and I started with a dream sequence, which I later learned you should NEVER do!”

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Sherwood Christian Academy

FINE ARTS . ACADEMICS . SCHOOL LIFE . MISSIONS . ATHLETICS . SPOTLIGHTS She credits much of her success to pure perseverance.

“What you have to learn is that you’re going to get punched, but you have to keep getting back up,” Shafer says. “Only YOU can choose to quit.”

She is also thankful for all of the support she received along the way from family and friends. “You can’t do it by yourself.

You have to surround yourself with people who believe you can do it. You need people who have confidence in you, because there are times that you will need to borrow some.”

As she awaits the publication of The Beholder next spring, Shafer is enjoying life with her husband and their “active” cat, Salem.

After finishing the bulk of her novel, she began working parttime at One More Page Books, where she is learning more about publishing from the retail side. She and Wade are also active at their church, Grace Downtown, in downtown D.C.

Despite her inexperience, Shafer did write 50,000 words that November, and, by the following July, she had finished the first draft of her novel. “I can’t quit things,” she laughs, “so I had to finish.”

According to Shafer, though, her first attempt was “truly bad,” so she spent another year editing before she started looking for an agent. Pitches to agents involved writing a personalized letter to each one, which often took Shafer an entire day to draft, and attaching the first 10 pages of her manuscript in an email. For three months she received rejection after rejection, and each one felt personal.

Refusing to give up, she regrouped and took six months to revise her manuscript again before starting the agent search process once more. Finally, in September 2016, her dream agent asked to see the whole manuscript. The agent asked for some structural changes. Shafer responded with those changes in February 2017 and signed with the agent the following month.

“We love our church,” Shafer says. “It is committed to grace and the gospel, and has just been a really good place to grow spiritually. For the last few years we have hosted a weekly Bible study in our apartment.”

Of course, Shafer still spends time writing, working on the sequel that is part of her two-book deal. She turns out about 1,200 words a day.

She also finds it crucial to her success to allow enough empty space for inspiration to flourish, as it did when she first got the idea for The Beholder.

“If I were to give advice to any creative person, it would be to take the time to take in lots of inspiring content,” Shafer says. “So, watch good movies. Read good books. Go for really intense walks. Keep your brain and blood moving. Inspiration only happens if you’re filling your creative well.” //

Shafer, who had labored for nearly four years at that point, was amazed at how quickly everything came together in the end. “I had heard ‘no’ for so long,” Shafer says. “So much of the work of a writer is done in the dark and all alone. The quiet grinding part is so hard because you never know how it will turn out in the end.” Shafer’s agent began submitting the book to publishers soon thereafter and quickly sold HarperCollins her first novel and its sequel.

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C O N V E R SA T I O N S WITH KAMAYA HERRING SCA CLASS OF 2017

over your shoulder. You must decide for yourself what kind of life you want to live. You can pursue Christ with your all or be swept away by the things of this world.

INTERVIEW BY Ivy Wilson, Class of 2018

COLLEGE: Georgia Southern University

If you wouldn’t mind, could you share your biggest challenge this year and how you overcame it?

MAJOR: Business Management / Marketing

My biggest challenge this year was allowing myself to make new friends.

Because my family moved a lot while I was growing up, I hadn’t had many opportunities to get super close to other people. When my family moved to Albany I finally had the chance to form strong friendships and I couldn’t imagine finding any friends better than the ones I already had. I was right.

The thing is, it wasn’t about finding better friends or replacement friends in college, it was about expanding my community and expanding my family. My new friends don’t take away from the old ones; they only add and enhance what was there before.

GOAL: To become an entrepreneur What three words would you use to describe your first experiences in college and why?

Social - because there’s always something to do. Events take place on the Georgia Southern campus almost every day of the week. This did become overwhelming at times, but I’m thankful for the many opportunities to hang out with friends, catch a game, or scarf down some amazing food. It’s important to meet new people and build community in a new place.

Independence - because in college I get to play the role of adult. Some days “being an adult” goes well and other days I find myself back at the drawing board. I’m learning more about how to function as an individual with every day that goes by. I’m making decisions that have consequences. That being said, it’s important to know that your help comes from God and that He is the author of your story. So, prayer and reading my Bible has really helped me in my journey.

Refreshing - because I’ve found that college IS all that it’s cracked up to be.

I love the stage in life that God has me in right now. It has far exceeded my dreams and wishes. Even when I’m dreaming “too big,” it’s like I’m dreaming too small compared to what God has in store for me.

As a former SCA student, how has your faith in Christ grown since leaving SCA?

During my first year of college, I continued to see God’s faithfulness daily. Through studying His Word, small nudges in the right direction became pushes to action. This past year I’ve seen God put me in leadership position after leadership position and I did not deserve any of it. It makes little to no sense to me, but I’m so grateful to be used by God in a way that can only be explained by Him. It keeps your heart in the right place, it keeps you humble, and it also keeps you in a constant state of seeking Him.

What advice would you give to a senior leaving SCA?

To all of the seniors graduating from SCA, don’t forget to check on your fellow classmates every now and then. Due to classes being so small, you had the opportunity to form a family and you don’t stop being family when you move off to college. We all are going through very similar experiences and it’s best if you go through these major life changes and choices together. It doesn’t take much to send a text or call. I’d also advise you all to get plugged in to an on-campus ministry as soon as possible. Your first friends are going to set the tone for the rest of your years in college. The people you seek to befriend will have an impact on the person you become. Your parents and mentors are no longer there to stand

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How well would you say SCA prepared you for college?

I was very well prepared going into college. I got to see the worldviews I read about in Bible class play out in the lives of my classmates. The encouragement and love from faculty and staff at SCA has also aided me in making my transition to college.

Although we know the Lord is great at altering our plans, where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Many things about the future are uncertain, but one thing is for sure— God will be there doing all the things that He does best. I plan to be a faithful follower wherever He has me. I just want everything I do to be done with love, joy and with His Kingdom in mind. //

Ivy Wilson is the daughter of Scott and Kelley Wilson and is a member of Sherwood Baptist Church.

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