Summer 2023 SOARING Newsletter

SU M MIT CHRISTIAN ACADEM Y S aring

A newsletter for friends, staff, and parents of Summit Christian Academy

2023 Teacher of the Year

Administration, Early Education, Secondary 1500 SW Jefferson Lee’s Summit MO 64081 816.525.1480 Elementary 1450 SW Jefferson Lee’s Summit MO 64081 816.524.0185

Chris Hahn, Head of School

Joe Hesman, Secondary Principal & Director of Operations

Anthony Mickelson, Secondary Assistant Principal

Charissa Sanders, Early Ed & Lower Elementary Principal

Julie Madsen, Upper Elementary Principal

Lance Quessenberry, Athletic Director

Sarah Coats, Director of Development

Cordell Dick, Director of Access & Affordability Like

SCA named secondary science teacher Mr. Tim Schwab as the SCA 2023 Teacher of the Year during a school-wide assembly at the end of the year.

Parents, students, and staff had the opportunity to nominate a teacher who has shown excellence in fulfilling SCA’s mission to “inspire students to achieve their God-given potential through excellent academics and Christian training in a compassionate environment.”

Thirty teachers were nominated, from which six finalists were selected. Finalists included sixth grade teacher Chandra Brownlee, secondary science teacher Diane Ferguson, secondary social studies teacher Kelly Montgomery, second grade teacher Julie Ray, secondary science teacher Tim Schwab,

and third grade teacher Kristen Tschida.

"I was excited to announce Mr. Schwab as the SCA Teacher of the Year,” shared SCA Head of School Chris Hahn. “The response of our students when he was announced was humbling as they roared in their appreciation and approval. I respect and admire his commitment to relational ministry with high expectations for all.”

Mr. Schwab has a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from Colorado State University and two minors in Chemistry and Philosophy. Mr. Schwab served in the Marine Corps and worked in Healthcare Information Technology prior to joining the SCA team in 2016.

Summer 2023

Mr. Schwab was presented with a plaque, an SCA designated parking space, and a monetary award. As SCA’s Teacher of the Year, Mr. Schwab is also a candidate for the Great Plains Alliance of Christian Schools (GPACS) Teacher of the Year. The GPACS Teacher of the Year will be announced in January 2024.

SCA’s 2023 Teacher of the Year finalists (L-R):

Mrs. Kristen Tschida

Ms. Julie Ray

Mr. Tim Schwab

Mrs. Kelly Montgomery

Mrs. Diane Ferguson

Mrs. Chandra Brownlee

Head of School Chris Hahn pictured with SCA’s 2023 Teacher of the Year, secondary science teacher Mr. Tim Schwab.

Christian Character and Student of the Year Awards

Announced

SCA is pleased to recognize students who consistently exhibit exceptional Christian character through the Christian Character Award program. The purpose of this award is to encourage students to pursue their potential toward attaining the highest level of personal and academic development as well as Christian character. The achievement of Christian Character at SCA is one of the most prestigious recognitions within the school.

Elementary Christian Character recipients for the fourth quarter are third grade student Kendall McCambridge, daughter of Casey & Amy McCambridge , and fifth grade student Lyrica Arroyo, daughter of Dr. Michael & Bethany Arroyo.

Fifth grade student Darby Whitfield, daughter of Colby & Elaine Whitfield, was named as the 2023 SCA Elementary Student of the Year

Junior High Christian Character recipients for second semester are eighth grade student Rylie Friess, daughter of Chad and Elizabeth Friess, and SCA seventh grade student Ethan Sanders, son of Joe and Charissa Sanders.

Senior High Christian Character recipients for the second semester are senior Katie Coats, daughter of Andy & Sarah Coats, and senior Trevon Hildebrand, son of Bill & Jennifer Hildebrand.

SCA is pleased to announce that senior Andrew Mishriky, son of Farid & Nermeen Mishriky, has been named the 2023 Secondary Student of the Year. Andrew has attended SCA for six years and will attend the six-year medical program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

“Andrew is one of those young men that is so meaningful to have in a school,” shared Secondary Principal & Director of Operations Joe Hesman. “He has an absolutely contagious and positive attitude! He has a smile on his face no matter what lies in front of him and what task he is working toward! Andrew leads very well in his walk with God, his academics and his social interactions with others. I am so blessed to have had the opportunity to have him as a student at SCA.”

SCA Core Value: Christ-centered

Our belief in God and His Word is central to SCA. Through a faculty who practice a personal and active faith, we foster a thoroughly Christian environment where God’s Word is the standard for decision making. Placing Christ at the center of all enables us to educate the whole student, spiritually, emotionally, mentally, socially, and physically.

Third grade Christian Character Award winner Kendall McCambridge with Lower Elementary Principal Mrs. Sanders.

Fifth grade Christian Character Award winner Lyrica Arroyo with Lower Elementary Principal Mrs. Sanders.

Fifth grade student Darby Whitfield was named the 2023 Elementary Student of the Year and is pictured with Lower Elementary Principal Mrs. Sanders.

Secondary Principal Mr. Hesman with seventh grade student Ethan Sanders and eighth grade student Rylie Friess.

Secondary Principal Mr. Hesman with seniors Katie Coats and Trevon Hildebrand.

The secondary 2023 23 Student of the Year is senior Andrew Mishriky. He will be attending the six-year medical program at the University of Missouri-Kansas City.

Academics Elementary Students Hone Science & Speech Skills

Two of SCA's core values are Inspiring Excellence in Learning and Igniting Leadership. SCA recently hosted the science fair and speech competitions for 3rd-6th grades, where elementary students had the opportunities to further discover and develop their God-given gifts and talents.

Fifth Graders Host European Fair

Fifth grade students recently brought a taste of Europe to Lee’s Summit as they hosted the annual European Fair. The event provides a fun and interactive way for elementary students to explore European culture and cuisine.

Through their Europe unit in history class, fifth grade students selected countries to represent, and spent weeks researching, planning, and practicing. Fellow students and visitors had the opportunity to travel throughout Europe and receive cultural dishes and information about each country’s history, tourist attractions, and culture.

Message from SCA Head of School

Servant Leader Mrs. Carol Lewis Retires

Mrs. Carol Lewis retired at the conclusion of the 2022-2023 school year. Carol faithfully served as Administrative Assistant to the Head of School, Director of Human Resources, and Board of Education Secretary. She served the families, faculty, and staff of Summit Christian Academy for 25 years! The SCA student body and faculty formally recognized her at the All-School Awards Assembly on May 3, and the Board of Education hosted a Retirement Celebration of Carol on May 11. Multiple current and former families and faculty came to honor her. Long-time Head of School Linda Harrelson and 12-year Board of Education member David Drum formally honored her with words, gifts, and prayer.

A Huge Thank You from Carol Lewis!

I would like to express my gratitude first and foremost to the Lord for leading me to Summit Christian Academy 25 years ago! I have been beyond blessed to use the gifts He has given me as assistant to Heads of School Mrs. Linda Harrelson and Mr. Chris Hahn. It has been an incredible journey that was more fun than work, more joy than struggle, and incredibly rewarding as we experienced the many ways the Lord has chosen to bless SCA!

Thank you to all who came to my retirement party – I so enjoyed seeing each and every one of you. I was blessed with many cards, gifts, flowers, gift cards, fun memories, and most especially the precious notes in my BoomBox. I have read and re-read them with many laughs, tears of joy, and great memories! Thank you so much!

SCA will forever be in my heart and in my prayers! Carol

Fifth grade students Cali Cherry, Ellie Hawes, and Jayla Oldham represented Ukraine at the SCA European Fair.

Head of School Chris Hahn and Mrs. Carol Lewis who retired after 25 years of service.

Ellis Owens, Evangeline Park, and Lydia Constant participated in the science competition.

Academics

Record Number of Students Earn Missouri Seal of Biliteracy

In the past two years, nine students have earned the Missouri Seal of Biliteracy award, with two students receiving the Distinguished Seal of Biliteracy, in conjunction with the Missouri Department of Education. SCA American World Language Students received the Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish or French.

Students receiving the Seal of Biliteracy in 2022 were Seniors Olivia Truesdale in French and McKinzie Parks in Spanish. Students receiving the Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish in 2023 are Sophomore George Hoelzel, Junior Virginia Baxter, and Seniors Grace Bowlin, Elise Welch, and Makenzie Zimmerman.

In addition, Junior David Beltran and Senior Anna

Hammond received the Distinguished Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish.

SCA offers the Seal of Biliteracy award to World Language seniors and senior international students who have attained proficiency in a second language and demonstrated sociocultural competence. The Seal of Biliteracy promotes active participation in a global society by incentivizing, recognizing and celebrating the acquisition of biliteracy skills and sociocultural awareness. Students had to submit an application for the seal and take an approved language assessment test to determine

SCA Students Win AllDistrict in Scholar Bowl Competition

Junior Anna Hammond and senior Andrew Mishriky received All-District medals for the Missouri State High School Activities Association

(MSHSAA) Class 3 District 7 AllDistrict Scholar Bowl Competition.

The Scholar Bowl District Tournament was held at Lutheran High School and this is SCA’s second year to compete in the Scholar Bowl.

if they qualified for the Seal of Biliteracy or the Distinguished Seal of Biliteracy. A student must also score 18 or higher on the ACT Reading section for the Seal of Biliteracy; and for the Distinguished Seal of Biliteracy, they must score 21 or higher. Further, students must document sociocultural activities, research, projects, and experiences.

SCA notes this achievement by a statement on the student’s transcript, special recognition with a sealed certificate, a silver and royal blue cord to wear during graduation, and up to 14 free college credit hours added to the student’s college transcript.

Juniors Take First in Calculus Competition

Juniors Tony Bu, Elissa Hesman, and Anna Hammond competed with students from 22 schools at the Midwest Christian School Academic and Fine Arts Festival math competition. This is SCA’s third consecutive year to medal. Tony, Elissa, and Anna secured first place in the calculus team competition. Tony Bu also took first place in the individual calculus competition. These students were recognized for their remarkable achievement by the Jackson County Legislature at their meeting on June 5.

L-R: Senior Olivia Truesdale, senior McKinzie Parks, sophomore George Hoelzel, junior David Beltran, senior Makenzie Zimmerman, junior Virginia Baxter, senior Elise Welch, junior Anna Hammond, and senior Grace Bowlin (not pictured) make up the largest group of SCA students to receive a Seal of Biliteracy Award.

Junior Anna Hammond and senior Andrew Mishriky received an All-District medal for the MSHSAA Class 3 District 7 All-District Scholar Bowl Competition.

Juniors (L-R) Tony Bu, Elissa Hesman, and Anna Hammond competed in the calculus portion of the Blue Ridge Midwest Festival math competition, where they took first in team competition.

Academics

Juniors to Represent SCA at American Legion Boys State

and Auxiliary Missouri Girls State

Juniors Evelyn Crouch, daughter of Jenny and Matthew Crouch, and Anna Hammond, daughter of Scott Hammond, have been accepted and plan to attend, participate in and represent SCA at the 2023 American Legion Auxiliary Girls State of Missouri Program. The Liberty Memorial VFW Post 4043 has graciously sponsored their participation.

In addition, juniors John Ficinus, son of Alice and Scott Ficinus, Solomon

Anderson, son of Cecelia Brewer and James Anderson, and Braeden Wooldridge, son of Pamala and Clayton Wooldridge, have been accepted and plan to attend, participate in and represent SCA at the 2023 American

Legion Boys State of Missouri. Missouri Girls and Boys State are Missouri’s premier youth leadership development organizations that are designed to promote pride in America and create a mythical state that the citizens will govern

at the city, county, and state level. Held on the campus of Lindenwood University in St. Charles, the boys and girls sessions will run simultaneously June 24 - July 1.

Sophomore Competes in Rotary Four-Way Speech Contest

Sophomore Abigail Shanahan won the SCA Rotary Four-Way Speech contest and went on to share her speech at the Lee’s Summit Noon Rotary Club, where she earned third place.

The Four-Way Test Speech Competition requires students to prepare a five to seven minute speech to persuade others while applying the principles of the Rotary Four-Way test:

• Is it the truth?

• Is it fair to all concerned?

• Will it build good will and better friendships?

• Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

Seniors Receive Rotary Scholarships

Two seniors received scholarships from the Rotary Club of Lee's Summit. The scholarships are $1,000 per year for two years.

Madison Brown is the recipient of the Rotary Club of Lee’s Summit Scholarship for two years at an Metropolitan Community College (MCC) campus. Madison will study Early Childhood Education at Longview Community College.

Ryan Cooper is the recipient of the Rotary Club of Lee’s Summit Scholarship for trade occupations at MCC. Ryan plans to study Construction Management at MCC.

Evelyn Crouch Anna Hammond

John Ficinus

Solomon Anderson Braeden Wooldridge

Sophomore Abigail Shanahan took third place at the Lee’s Summit Noon Rotary Club’s Rotary Four-Way Speech Contest.

Seniors Ryan Cooper (left) and Madison Brown (right), pictured with SCA College and Career Advisor Shaun Pfannenstiel, are the recipients of two Rotary Club of Lee’s Summit Scholarships.

Academics Class of 2023 Summa Cum Laude Recipients

SCA is pleased to recognize Class of 2023 Summa Cum Laude recipients Lydia Conner, Andrew Mishriky, Eden Prather, and Olivia Truesdale.

To achieve SCA’s highest academic honor, students must have been at SCA for four consecutive semesters, demonstrate a transcript of

30 credit hours, have taken four years of high school science and four years of high school math, attend school at least seven hours during their senior year, and have no academic modifications in achieving a cumulative percentage that is in the top 5% of their class.

“I am incredibly blessed to have these four students represent SCA as the Summa Cum Laude students,” shared SCA Secondary Principal Joe Hesman. “They are students who love the Lord with all of their heart as well as have a tremendous work ethic and excel academically! These are students who will be world changers for Christ!”

Lydia, Andrew, Eden, and Olivia were speakers at the SCA Class of 2023 Commencement Ceremony. SCA’s Class of 2023 had 70 graduates who were awarded approximately $3.5 million in scholarship offers. In addition, three seniors receives Missouri Bright Flight scholarships.

SCA Awards Linda Harrelson Legacy of Servant Leadership Scholarship

SCA is pleased to announce the Class of 2023 Linda Harrelson Legacy of Servant Leadership Scholarship award winner, Katie Coats.

The $5,000 scholarship was named for SCA’s previous Head of School Linda Harrelson, who served in the role at SCA for 22 years. SCA teachers nominated students who were exceptional examples of the SCA Core Values, particularly the values of Christ-Centered and Igniting Leadership.

Katie served as a member of National Honor Society, participated on the Cross Country & Track & Field Team, served as the Morning Prayer Co-Leader, was a member of the Student Ambassador program, and was the Spring 2023 Christian Character Award recipient. Mrs. Harrelson announced Katie’s award at the SCA 2023 Commencement Ceremony held on May 12 in the SCA Fieldhouse & Activity Center.

“Katie consistently exemplified humble servant leadership in line with SCA’s Core Value of being a Christ-centered leader during her 12 years at SCA,” shared former SCA Head of School Mrs. Harrelson, for whom the scholarship was named.

"These are students who will be world changers for Christ!"

Joe Hesman

Lydia Conner plans to study Health Sciences at the University of Missouri Columbia.

Olivia Truesdale plans to study Nursing at Penn Valley Community College.

Eden Prather plans to study Business Administration at Union University.

Andrew Mishriky plans to study Medicine at the University of Missouri Kansas City.

Class of 2023 Linda Harrelson Scholarship recipient Katie Coats (R) is presented with the Linda Harrelson Legacy of Student Leadership Scholarship by Harrelson during the 2023 Commencement Ceremony. Katie plans to attend Abilene Christian University and study Elementary & Early Education.

Academics SCA Announces 2023 Entrepreneurship Scholarship Winner

Senior Emirson Schooley is the recipient of the $3,000 SCA Entrepreneurship Scholarship.

The Entrepreneurship Scholarship, available for students who have taken and completed the school’s Entrepreneurship course, was set up by an anonymous SCA donor who puts a high value on entrepreneurship. At the end of the course, students present their business plan to a panel of impartial judges in a “Shark Tank” format to determine who has developed the most viable business plan. The winning scholarship encourages the student to continue in an education toward business ventures.

Emirson’s business plan, called “Sunshine Fields” is a farming business that will encourage the community to not only make a purchase, but also participate in gathering eggs and their own produce.

“Not only did she develop a well thought out business plan, but she also presented a viable and investable business that I know she has a true passion for,” shared SCA Business Faculty Member Georgia Duncan.

Emirson plans to attend Dordt University and study Animal Science and Agriculture.

Senior Receives Elks Lodge Most Valuable Student Scholarship

Senior Jillian Steller as the second place winner for the Elks Lodge #26 “Most Valuable Student” Contest and Scholarship. Jillian received a $1,200 award and plans to attend Creighton University to major in Neuroscience.

Senior Receives Truman Heartland Foundation Scholarship

Senior Katie Coats is the recipient of a scholarship from the Truman Heartland Foundation. The scholarship is $1,000 and is from the Rachel House Hudson Memorial Scholarship. Katie plans to study Elementary and Early Education at Abilene Christian University.

SCA Core Value: Inspiring Excellence in Learning

The SCA faculty inspires students to discover and develop their God-given gifts and talents. We nurture an enthusiasm for learning, providing an atmosphere wherein students may express creativity, discern truth, think critically, and choose wisely. In academics, the arts, and athletics, we uphold a standard of excellence to encourage students to achieve their individual best.

Senior Jillian Steller (center), Secondary Assistant Principal Anthony Mickelson (left), and Todd Miller (right) from Elks Lodge was the second place recipient of the Elks Lodge #26 Most Valuable Student Contest and Scholarship.

Senior Katie Coats (right) pictured with SCA Secondary Assistant Principal Anthony Mickelson (left). Katie is the recipient of the Rachel House Hudson Memorial Scholarship through the Truman Heartland Foundation.

Senior Emirson Schooley with SCA Business Teacher Georgia Duncan, was the recipient of the Summit Christian Academy Entrepreneurship Scholarship for her plan for her farming business “Sunshine Fields.”

Athletics Historic Spring Season

by Lance Quessenberry, Athletic Director

Wow! That’s the only word to describe the 2023 spring sports season. Of the five varsity spring teams, two won conference championships, three won district championships, and two won state championships! It was a historical season, and our athletes and coaches accomplished some amazing feats.

Varsity Girls' Soccer had a successful season with a young group of athletes. They finished the season 16-6 and placed second in the Crossroads Conference. They also finished second in the Oak Grove tournament and the SCA Cup during regular season competition. With only one active senior on the roster, they return almost the entire team for another run at the postseason next year and they will be ready to make it happen.

Varsity Baseball also fielded a young team. With several freshman starting in almost every game, a 15-13 record is an impressive accomplishment. They finished third in the conference and won the team’s fourth consecutive district championship. Even though Coach Gage saw the program’s first conference loss since 2014, this group has a bright future and will do great things when they compete next spring.

Varsity Girls' Track and Field team also had an outstanding

season. They finished in the top three in almost every meet, including a third place finish at the SBU meet. They won their third conference championship in a row and placed third in the district meet. Six team members qualified for the Class 3 State tournament where they earned a fifth place finish overall, with only five points separating them from the second place team. Even though some strong seniors will be graduating, plenty of upcoming talented underclassmen will carry on this team’s strong tradition of winning next year.

Varsity Boys' Golf had a season like no other in SCA history. They won a district championship and then went on to make history as the first athletic team to win a MSHSAA State Championship. Their 32-stroke win over the second place team at state was a dominating performance to say the least. With a strong makeup of underclassmen, this team looks to be very good for the foreseeable future.

As impressive as the Boys' Golf season was, Varsity Boys' Track & Field may have been better. Not only did they win SCA’s second MSHSAA State Championship only five days after the Boys' Golf team won theirs, but they also won a district championship and a conference championship on the way. These young men came up big in almost every moment in their exciting postseason. Like most of our spring teams, Boys' Track & Field is loaded with underclassmen and should be fun to watch for a while.

Like I said before, wow! What an outstanding season! In fifteen years as a MSHSAA school and despite fourteen Final Four finishes, SCA had never won a state championship in any sport. Then, this spring, our teams won two in the same week! We thank God, not for winning state championships, but for giving our athletes and coaches their talents and giving them the opportunity to compete. We are so blessed at SCA!

Varsity Boys' Golf and Varsity Boys' Track & Field ended their seasons by bringing home the first state championships SCA history.

Lance Quessenberry

The first SCA Golf State Champion Peyton Smith.

Athletics A Season of Broken Records

Track & Field had an amazing and impressive season! The athletes broke eleven school records, three of which had stood for 15 years. This is more broken school records than any team has accomplished in a single season.

Over the history of the program, two athletes (Carlie Queen, Class of 2017 and Lenetta Lee, Class of 2019) have been a Track & Field state champion in an individual event. In this year’s single season, five athletes claimed the title of state champion within their events. Senior April Phillips placed first in the long jump, triple jump, and high jump. Junior Marcus Jones placed 1st in the 400m and 200m, as well as joined sophomore Marcus Verbrugge, and seniors Drew Pierce and Jake Sutton to win the state championship in the 4x400 relay. Senior Adriana McGregor earned All-State honors with her seventh place finish in the 1600m run. Other state qualifiers were senior Keyler Quessenberry and sophomores

Julia Osgood, Lucie Epema, and Abigail Shanahan.

These individual performances at state helped both teams finish strong, including another first for the program. The Varsity

Boys' team brought home the team’s first state championship! The Varsity Girls also did well at Class 3 State, finishing fifth in the state of Missouri.

This group of seniors also set a record for the program as four of the thirteen seniors have committed to compete at the college level next year, with more seniors still in conversations with various universities. Congratulations to Adriana McGregor (Evangel University), April Phillips (Evangel University), Mara Reasoner (Lindenwood University), and Hope Woodall (Southwest Baptist

athletes will continue to glorify Christ

through

University)! These

their competitions at the next level.

Varsity Boys' Track & Field won the state championship in Class 2 competition this season. Pictured back L-R, alternate Preston Goffinet, alternate Julean McGregor, Jake Sutton, Drew Pierce, Marcus Jones, Marcus Verbrugge, and alternate Carter Tripp. Pictured front L-R, Coaches Kyle Miller, Dan Phillips, Becky Wiseman, and Rick McGregor. Not pictured: Coaches Jimmy Woodall and Cade Zucca.

Summit Christian Academy (SCA) Eagles varsity girls’ track and field senior athlete April Phillips recently made Missouri Class 3 and SCA history by being the first athlete to win three state titles in the three jumping events in a single year. April received the Gold medal in the high jump, long jump, and triple jump.

Junior Marcus Jones was the individual State Champion in the 400m and 200m dashes, and was part of the 4x200 relay championship team.

Boys' Golf Team Makes History

Varsity Boys’ Golf had a great 2023 season! After graduating six seniors last year, a large group of talented freshmen joined this year including five of our top seven players. The varsity team finished in the top five in every tournament, including four runner-up finishes and two first place finishes. Due to its size, SCA competes in Class 2 golf, but many of these events were against larger Class 4 and 5 teams. Our junior varsity team also had good individual success with two first place finishes and two second place finishes this season. As the varsity team entered district play, they were in one of the tougher districts in the state with the defending Class 1 and Class 2 State champions in their district. They played well and won the district tournament by nine shots, led by freshman Peyton Smith who was the district champion. Freshmen Ben Wheeler and Tristan Aitkens finished seventh and eighth earning All-District honors. Hayden Perry and Memphis Hinton also played well and earned a spot at the state tournament.

Advancing all five players to the state tournament was a distinct advantage. Although every district championship team competes at state, only one other team had all five players qualify individually. This allowed the team to drop their worst individual score when calculating the team score. After the first day of the state tournament, the team wasn’t playing their best golf but still held a 9-shot lead. At breakfast on day two, they talked about representing God and SCA through their play, having a chance to make SCA history by winning a state championship, and playing for the other guys sitting at that breakfast table. The team played day two with incredible heart all day. They stretched their lead to take a dominating 32-shot victory over the defending Class 2 state champions. Peyton Smith was crowned as the individual state champion and Ben Wheeler finished in third place for the two-day event.

The varsity team is honored to represent God and SCA on the golf course. The team has been blessed with incredible talent and a memorable season. Although the athletes will take some great memories from this season, they also know God isn’t done using SCA Golf for His glory. They hope to continue to allow Him to use the young men in this program to bring honor to Him!

Varsity Baseball Claims District Championship

Varsity Baseball finished the season at 15-13, placing 1st in the Class 4 District tournament before losing 4-3 in extra innings to Boonville High School in the sectional playoff game. All District, 1st Team honors were awarded to Xander Zumwalt, Brooks Zumwalt, Isaac Truesdale, and Fischer Ethridge. Kaden DeLapp, Carter Jeffries, and Andrew Steiner were selected as All-District, 2nd Team with Kai Haulotte receiving Honorable Mention.

The Eagles placed third in the Crossroads Conference with All Conference, 1st Team honors going to Xander Zumwalt, Brooks Zumwalt, and Isaac Truesdale. Kaden DeLapp, Carter Jeffries, Fischer Ethridge, and Jackson Bowen were selected as All-Conference, 2nd Team and Honorable Mention selections went to Kai Haulotte,

Ro Rothwell, and Nathan Medsker. The final awards were given to Isaac Truesdale, Fischer Ethridge, and Kaden DeLapp who earned Academic All-State honors from the Missouri High School Baseball Coaches Association.

The team is looking forward to the future with all starters returning next year. They wish their only senior, Jake Sutton, congratulations and nothing but success as he attends the University of Arkansas next fall.

Varsity Baseball won the Class 4, District 14 championship, marking their fourth consecutive district title.

Varsity Boys’ Golf placed 1st in the Class 2 State Championship on May 15-16. They were led by state champion Peyton Smith and 3rd place finisher Ben Wheeler. They are coached by Head Coach Gary Breshears and Assistant Coach Roger Breshears. Pictured L-R: Hayden Perry, Ben Wheeler, Memphis Hinton, Tristan Aitkens, and Peyton Smith.

Fine Arts Senior Wins Cappie Award for Supporting Role in Peter Pan

Senior Olivia Truesdale was recently awarded a Cappie for her performance in a supporting female role as Tinkerbell in the SCA Theatre production of Peter Pan by the Kansas City Cappies.

“Olivia is a formidable actress, comedian, and writer. She topped off her senior year with a much-deserved recognition: The Cappies Award for a Supporting Actor in a Female Role in a Play,” shared SCA Theatre Director Mrs. Nancy Horine. “With a wave of her wand, and a flash of pixie dust, Olivia embodied the effervescent role of Tinkerbell in Peter Pan. Olivia won a Cappie Award without speaking a word, yet we knew exactly what Tinkerbell was thinking by her sparkling expressions, and spectacular delivery.”

The Kansas City Cappies work with high school theatre students all over the metropolitan area. The season culminates with a grand Gala event, with performances from the top ranked plays and musicals from the season, and awards given for the best performers, technicians, and writers of the year. SCA Theatre is a member of the KC Cappies as well as the International Thespian Society.

SCA Thespians Nominated for Cappie Awards

The Theatre department received seven nominations, with a total of ten actors recognized, for Cappies Awards. Winners were announced at the 21st annual Cappies Awards Gala on Saturday, May 27 at the historic Folly Theatre. Nominees were:

• Choreography Nominee junior Abbie Cook for Hello, Dolly!

• Creativity Nominee junior Hannah Wyssmann for Peter Pan

Created to create!

• Ensemble in a Play Nominees of “The Lost Boys” (including seventh grade student Junius Yancik, freshman Addison Welch, and juniors Charlotte Brownlee, Ella Jones, Savannah Topping, and Abbie Cook) for Peter Pan

• Featured Actor in a Female Role in a Play Nominee sophomore Emma Coats for Peter Pan

• Comic Actor in a Female Role in a Play Nominee junior Charlotte Brownlee for Peter Pan

• Supporting Actor in a Female Role in a Play Nominee senior Olivia Truesdale for Peter Pan

• Lead Actor in a Female Role in a Play Nominee senior Shea Rider for Peter Pan

SCA hosted an Art Festival for students in grades 3-6. Artwork was on display for students and families to view, and the pieces were judged by category. Ribbons were awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place pieces. Congratulations to all of our elementary artists!

Senior Olivia Truesdale received the Cappie for Supporting Actor in a Female Role in a Play for her portrayal of Tinkerbell in Peter Pan.

Third grade student Meryn Foster featured in front of her artwork at the SCA Art Festival.

Sixth grade student Parker Law received a blue ribbon at the SCA Art Festival.

Fine Arts

National Art Honor Society Students Reach Out Through Art

National Art Honor Society Members junior

Jisue Kim and seniors Jillian Steller and Elise Welch have contributed another set of portraits for The Memory Project. The Memory Project is a youth arts organization that promotes intercultural understanding and kindness between children around the world. The Memory Project matched Jisue, Jillian, and Elise with students facing difficult circumstances in India and emailed their photo to us. The girls created portraits for the individual they were paired with, mailed them internationally, and the Memory Project delivered the heartfelt gifts to them in March.

Fine Arts Students Earn Top Ratings

Congratulations to secondary students who earned Superior (I) ratings at the Midwest Christian School Academic and Fine Arts Festival, with competitors from 22 Christian schools. Earning a medal designates the highest score among all competing schools.

JUNIOR HIGH MUSIC Band

Zeke Croucher, Snare Drum Solo

Zeke Croucher, Concert Bells Solo

Violin Solos

Alison Zhang

Daniela Beltran

Grace Davis

Lucas DeJong

Bella Arroyo

Cello Solo

Austin Zhang

String Bass

Isaac Beltran

Vocal

Choir (Medal)

Boys Large Ensemble (Medal)

Small Ensemble-8 Swing Low Small Ensemble-7 Journey On Small Ensemble-8 Jubilate Deo (Medal)

Small Ensemble-8 Here is Music

Vocal Duet-Violet Darby and Gabe Creason

Vocal Solos

Drew Addleman

Brooks Hagan

Kennedy Styer

Josie Gillihan

Harlow Greenwood

Eli Skinner

HIGH SCHOOL VISUAL ART

Lily Teilborg, painting

Aubrianna Kennedy, graphic design

Lydia Conner, sculpture

Junior Places 2nd in Congressional Art Competition

SCA junior Isabella Wilson's acrylic painting "Kite on Oregon Beach" received 2nd place in the 5th Congressional Art Competition 2023, sponsored by Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, II. A panel of judges vote to select artwork from schools in the 5th Congressional District, which included entries from eight SCA artists.

Vocalists Earn Gold Medals at State Music Festival

Three soloists received the top rating of Gold at the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) State Music Festival. Soloists earning a gold medal included junior Hannah Wyssmann, sophomore Addison Davies, and senior Shea Rider.

L-R: Junior Hannah Wyssmann, sophomore Addison Davies, Secondary Vocal Music Director Mrs. Mandy Hoover, and senior Shea Rider.

Jisue Kim, Jillian Steller, and Elise Welch created portraits for students in India as part of the Memory Project.

Have You Considered Hosting an International Student?

Since 2009, SCA has been blessed to have 115 international students. They have been a great asset to our school and have educated us by teaching us firsthand about their unique cultures, languages, and lives back home. We are excited to announce that eight international students have been accepted at SCA for the 2023-24 school year!

In preparation for their August arrival, these international students from China, Vietnam, and South Korea have been getting their class schedules organized, exchanging emails with their SCA American Buddies, and meeting their host families. Host families are an integral part of our international program and a way to reach students with the gospel!

We call hosting the “reverse Great Commission.” Instead of going to another country, families open their door and heart and invite a student to be part of their family. As a host family, you’ll receive a handbook, orientation, and 24/7 support. Most of our students come with a monthly stipend ($742), which is to offset the cost of having another person living in your home. The student is responsible for paying for their entertainment, going out with friends, school sports/activities, and other incidentals.

Currently, we have four of the eight students placed in host families, which is amazing, but we still have a need to place the remaining four students. The natural parents have been asking where their children will be staying and the international students are eager to meet their new families. God has provided us with these international students, and He’ll provide the families, too!

We ask families to be praying if this is a ministry God would have you be a part of. If you have a desire to reach the nations for Christ, share the love of Jesus in your home, and learn about another culture, hosting would be a great opportunity for you! Please reach out to International Program Director, Rocco DeFelice at rdefelice@sca-kc.org for more information!

The Teilborg Family with Vega Gastaldo (Spain) on a Spring Break trip to Florida!

The Gregg Family has hosted more than 11 years!

This & That Health Office Reminders for Fall

IMMUNIZATIONS:

It is not too late to turn in an immunization record for the fall! Please send all new and updated immunization records for your student to nrhyne@sca-kc.org and tsummitt@sca-kc.org. If you have questions regarding requirements for your child, please check with your Healthcare Provider. We sent emails in the spring to all incoming K, 8th, and 12th graders reminding families of the immunization requirements for those grades. Please communicate with us if you will be receiving this over the summer, so that we will know why an updated record has not yet been submitted. If you are a new family, please email or drop your student’s immunization records off ASAP to the Secondary building.

The deadline to turn in an up to date immunization record is August 1, 2023. Your child must be up to date prior to starting school the first day.

RELIGIOUS EXEMPTIONS

As of 12/1/22 the State of MO has changed their requirements for Parent/Guardian and Religious Exemptions. You may now go through the education regarding vaccines and print off a Parent/Guardian Exemption or a Religious Exemption form from home. They do require that the school keep the original form with the original signature (not a copy). Parent/Guardian Exemptions are only good for PS/PK. Once you enter Kindergarten, you will need a Religious Exemption form. As long as all immunizations that are required are listed on the Religious Exemption form, you will only need one form for K-12th grades. The state requires that you list the ones you do not want in the “other” box. For example, for 8th grade a Tdap and Meningitis are required. Please write “Tdap” and “Meningitis” on the “other” line and the student will be covered through 12th grade.

Link for the Religious Exemption Form

https://health.mo.gov/living/wellness/immunizations/pdf/Immp11a.pdf

Link for a Parent/Guardian Exemption Form

https://health.mo.gov/living/wellness/immunizations/pdf/immp11.pdf

To enter Kindergarten, the following immunizations are required by the State of MO:

To enter 8th grade the following additional immunizations are required by the State of MO: Tdap Meningococcal

To enter 12th grade, this additional immunization is required by the State of MO: Meningococcal

If your student has staged immunizations or did not receive any on the CDC schedule, it can be confusing when the next dose is due. Please feel free to reach out to us with any questions regarding the vaccine schedule, what is required, or Religious or Parent/Guardian Exemptions.

EMERGENCY ACTION PLANS

If your student has an emergency action plan that needs to be discussed with the Nursing Staff or teacher, please email the Health Office at nrhyne@sca-kc.org and tsummitt@sca-kc.org.

MEDICATION ADMINISTRATION

No medications will be given to your child without a parent’s permission on file. PLEASE do not send medications to school with your child. If you need us to administer a medication, we absolutely can! We just need the correct form on file. Please email us with questions.

Your SCA Health Clinic Staff, Noelle Rhyne, RN, BSN - nrhyne@sca-kc.org |

Erin Rider, RN, BSN, MSN - erider@sca-kc.org | Tiffany Summitt, MEd - tsummitt@sca-kc.org

This & That Cordell’s Corner: Help Other Students Love School

SCA Students Receive Funds from the Missouri Scholars Program

“I love school!” are the words shared by 39 Summit Christian Academy (SCA) students who are recipients of the School Choice Program scholarship.

Over $188,000 was given to SCA families during the 2022-23 school year from the Missouri Scholars School Choice program (MOScholars), partnering with the Herzog Tomorrow Foundation. These scholarships are funded by generous businesses, individuals, and families by redirecting 50% of their Missouri state income tax liability with a donation to the Herzog Tomorrow Foundation.

The Herzog Tomorrow Foundation Scholarships are coordinated by Mayela Esser who shares that it is essential for donors and families to give to the program in order for the program to continue.

“Business Owners are able to make a MOScholars tax-credit reservation in the amount for two quarterly state income tax payments (June 15 and September 15),” shared Esser. “This will allow us to immediately fund MOScholarship at the beginning of the school year, instead of writing two checks to the State of Missouri for those tax payments. Business owners can write a donation check to Herzog Tomorrow Foundation.”

“Individuals and families can also give to the program,” continued Esser. “If you look at line 36 on your 2022 Missouri

State Income Tax form to see what you paid in taxes to the State of Missouri, you can redirect 50% of those tax dollars to the program. Therefore, it is money you would be giving the state anyway.”

For those who desire to support the initiative, it is time to begin with tax-credit reservation. Here are the steps to do so:

1. Visit the MOScholars Tax-Credit Reservation Site (https:// treasurer.mo.gov/MOScholars/TaxCredits) and click on “Tax Credit Reservation Portal/System.”

2. Select “Herzog Tomorrow Foundation” as your EAO (Education Assistance Organization).

3. Once you have made a reservation of tax-credits, Mayela will receive a notification and she will follow up with you on your next step to make your actual donation.

If you have specific questions related to how you can fund this program, contact Mayela Esser at 816.601.3379 or messer@ herzogtomorrowfoundation.com.

“There are many more Missouri students who want to attend a private school like SCA,” shared Esser. “Your willingness to redirect your state income tax dollars to this program may make all the difference in the world to a qualified student. Together, we can make it possible for more students to say, ‘I love school!’”

If you have questions related to this article or other donation questions, please contact Cordell Dick at 816.525.1480 or email cordelld@sca-kc.org.

Alumni Spotlight

The sky isn't even the limit for SCA graduate Shannah Withrow-Maser (Class of 2012)! Shanna achieved her Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Aerospace Engineering with an emphasis in Program Management from Missouri University of Science and Technology. Shannah joined NASA in 2018 through the NASA Pathways Internship Program and is now working for Ames Research Center in Mountain View, California! She is the Vehicle Systems Lead for Mars Science Helicopter, and the Aeronautics System Lead for Mars Sample Recovery Helicopter. Shannah was recently selected as a member of the 2023 Forbes 30 Under 30 class which allowed her to participate in the Forbes 30/50 Summit in Abu Dhabi, UAE. While there, she spoke at a local high school for International Women’s Day.

Cordell Dick Director of Major Gifts

The mission of Summit Christian Academy is to inspire students to achieve their God-given potential through excellent academics and Christian training in a compassionate environment.

Upcoming Events

Jul 30-Aug 5 Senior Mission Trip

Aug 7 Senior Open House & Tech Meeting 9-11:30 a.m.

Junior Open House & Tech Meeting 1-3 p.m.

Sep 1 First Friday 8:30 a.m.

Sep 4 NO SCHOOL (Labor Day)

Sep 5 Morning with Mom

Aug 8

Aug 14

Sophomore Open House & Tech Meeting 9-11:30 a.m.

Freshman Open House & Tech Meeting 1-3 p.m.

Early Ed Open House and Popsicles

on the Playground 3-5 p.m.

Elementary Back to School Night

Sep 7 Chiefs Day

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Sep 15 NO SCHOOL (Professional Development)

Sep 18-22

Sep 22

Secondary Spirit Week

Homecoming Game

Aug 15

Secondary Back to School Night

Aug 16 First Day of School (EARLY RELEASE)

Aug 17 EE 2-Day Classes First Day of School

Aug 22

Aug 23

Secondary/EE School Pictures

Elementary/EE School Pictures

Aug 24 PIE Night 5:30 p.m.

Aug 25

Magnificent Moms 8:30 a.m.

Aug 31 Watch DOGS meeting 6 p.m.

Sep 23 Homecoming Dance 7 p.m.

Sep 27 See You at the Pole Prayer Time

Oct 2-6 Book Fair

Oct 6 First Friday 8:30 a.m.

Oct 7 International Bonfire/Hayride

Oct 10 Secondary Choir Concert 7 p.m.

Oct 13 NO SCHOOL (Professional Development)