Summer 2024 SOARING Newsletter

CHRISTIAN ACADEM Y S aring

A newsletter for friends, staff, and parents of Summit Christian Academy Summer 2024

SCA Announces 2024 Teacher of the Year

Summit Christian Academy named Second Grade Teacher

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

Assistant Head of School

Andrew Pfeifer

Secondary Principal

Anthony Mickelson

Assistant Secondary Principal

Kelly Montgomery

Elementary Principal

Shauna Borgstadt

Assistant Elementary Principal

Jessica Fisher

Early Education Director

Lance Quessenberry

Athletic Director

Sarah Coats

Director of Development

Cordell Dick Director of Access & Affordability

Ms. Julie Ray as the SCA 2024 Teacher 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.”

Forty-three teachers were nominated, from which six finalists were selected. Finalists included Fifth Grade Teacher

Michelle Bacon, Fourth Grade Teacher Shauna Borgstadt, Sixth Grade Teacher Chandra Brownlee, Secondary Science Teacher Diane Ferguson, Secondary Physical Education Teacher Rhonda Morrison, and Second Grade Teacher Julie Ray.

“I was incredibly honored to announce and celebrate Ms. Ray as the 2024 SCA Teacher of the Year,” shared SCA Head of School Chris Hahn. “For twenty years at SCA, Ms. Ray has faithfully served

the Lord, as she has served the children and families placed in her class. Learning happens, relationships are developed and strengthened, and the love of Jesus is consistently demonstrated and displayed in her class! She may be your teacher for a year, but she teaches lessons for life. Ms. Ray is a gifted, passionate, encouraging teacher and a servant leader within the faculty. SCA is better and blessed because of the ministry of Ms. Ray.”

Ms. Ray has a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Baylor University and joined the SCA team in 2004.

Ms. Ray was presented with a plaque, an SCA designated parking space, and a monetary

award. As SCA’s Teacher of the Year, she 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 2025.

Head of School Mr. Chris Hahn (far left) with SCA’s 2024 Teacher of the Year finalists (left to right): Mrs. Rhonda Morrison, Mrs. Diane Ferguson, Mrs. Chandra Brownlee, Mrs. Shauna Borgstadt, and Mrs. Michelle Bacon. Far right is SCA’s 2023 Teacher of the Year, Mr. Tim Schwab.

Head of School Chris Hahn pictured with SCA’s 2024 Teacher of the Year, Second Grade Teacher Ms. Julie Ray.

Spiritual Students Share Love of Jesus in Taiwan

Seven SCA students, an alumni, and a teacher had an amazing opportunity to spend Spring Break in Taiwan on a mission trip with Heart of Life Church! Eighth grade student Makayla Welch, sophomores Dakota Cobb, Addison Welch, and Jack Whitford, junior Corey Jones, seniors Marcus Jones and Bella Wilson, 2023 SCA alumna McKinzie Parks, and Secondary Bible, Chinese, and Spanish teacher Mr. Michael Mayor (also a 2008 SCA alumnus) were able to share the generosity of the gospel of Jesus Christ by partnering with the local church. They taught conversational English in the public schools. Each SCA student taught 18 classes with 20-25 students in each class in nine different public schools! Students shared their personal testimony, taught about the significance of Easter, and shared their future professional goals. These young adults reached over 2,800 people with the Gospel!

Christian Character and Students of the Year Announced

SCA recognizes students who consistently exhibit exceptional Christian character through the Christian Character Award program, one of the most prestigious recognitions within the school.

ELEMENTARY

Elementary recipients for the third quarter are second grade student Layla Barber, daughter of Marcus and Megan Barber, and third grade student Madeline Showman, daughter of Mark and Ashley Showman. Elementary Christian Character recipients for the fourth quarter are second grade student Kyson Nisely, son of Matthew and Alexa Nisely, and fourth grade student Noah Nobrega, son of Jonathan and Benita Nobrega.

In addition, fourth grade student Noah Nobrega was named 2024 Elementary Student of the Year.

“Noah is a dedicated servant of God,” shared SCA Assistant Elementary Principal Mrs. Shauna Borgstadt, “He continually demonstrates faithfulness to God in every aspect of his life. Noah has a desire to learn more about Jesus and to commit himself, daily, to prayer.”

SECONDARY

Junior High Christian Character recipients for the second semester are eighth grade student Makayla Welch, daughter of Kreg and Mary Grace Welch, and eighth grade student Leo Butler, son of Benjamin and Jodi Butler.

continued on page 3

SCA students, alumni, and teacher traveled to Taiwan to share the Gospel over Spring Break.

Second grade student Kyson Nisely, fourth quarter Christian Character Award winner.

Fourth grade student Noah Nobrega, pictured with his parents Jonathan and Benita Nobrega, was fourth quarter Christian Character Award winner and was named the SCA 2024 Elementary Christian Character Student of the Year.

Second grade student Layla Barber, third quarter Christian Character Award winner.

Third grade student Madeline Showman, third quarter Christian Character Award winner.

Spiritual Christian Character/Student of the Year

Senior High Christian Character recipients for the second semester are junior Charli Hinton, daughter of Gary and Kristi Hinton, and senior Will Bisbee, son of Don and Lori Bisbee.

In addition, SCA recognizes a senior who consistently exhibited exceptional Christian character throughout their career at SCA at the 7-12th grade level. This recognition is called Student of the Year.

Senior Hunter Harris, son of Mark and Krista Harris, has been named the Secondary Student of the Year. Hunter has attended SCA for eight years and will study Biblical Studies and Medicine at the University of the Nations.

Academics

Fifth Grade Students 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.

As a part of their Europe unit in history class, fifth grade students selected countries to represent and spent weeks researching, planning, and practicing. SCA second, third, and fourth grade students, parents, and visitors had the opportunity to tour Europe and receive cultural dishes and information about each country’s history, tourist attractions, and culture.

“The European Fair is an exciting day that is the highlight of the fifth grade Europe unit of study in history class,” shared Fifth Grade Teacher Mrs. Michelle Bacon. “The fifth grade students work for weeks researching their countries, planning their display boards, practicing their tours, and searching foods to prepare and traditional clothing to wear. Visitors are provided

with engaging tours and delicious foods to sample from all over Europe. It is greatly anticipated for the students and visitors alike.”

Message from SCA Head of School

Do you remember as a child being challenged to do something? May I challenge you to consider joining me and our SCA community to ASPIRE HIGHER in caring for each other and our community in the 2024-25 school year? Our theme, based on Colossians 1:29, encourages us (challenges us) to work harder as HE works through us.

As you think about Aspiring Higher, what kinds of habits, words and actions must you retire? Are you willing to work hard, perspire, and inspire others?

Three specific challenges for you to consider: Will you ASPIRE HIGHER with your words and how you talk with one another? James 3 gives a great example of this. Will you ASPIRE HIGHER with your actions in how you help one another? 1 Corinthians 16 talks about helping others. Finally, will you ASPIRE HIGHER with your attitude and become more selfless? Philippians 2 demonstrates this. I believe this is what God is calling me and us to do. Will you join me? I challenge you to join me as we ASPIRE HIGHER in words, actions, and attitude.

Fifth grade students Carter Blair, Jack Borgstadt, Gemma Pace, Kate Hayes, and Marliss Lauritsen represented Great Britain at the SCA European Fair.

Chris Hahn

L-R: Senior Will Bisbee, eighth grade student Leo Butler, eighth grade student Makayla Welch, junior Charli Hinton, and Secondary Principal Mr. Joe Hesman.

Senior and Secondary Student of the Year Hunter Harris with Secondary Principal Joe Hesman.

Academics

Juniors to Represent SCA at Missouri Girls and Boys State

Juniors Lucie Epema, daughter of Dr. John and Stacy Epema, Charli Hinton, daughter of Gary and Kristi Hinton, Violet Newcomer, daughter of Mark and Haley Newcomer, Abigail Shanahan, daughter of Michele Shanahan and Tom Shanahan, and Haley Sutton, daughter of Tim and Jackie Sutton, have been accepted and plan to attend, participate, and represent SCA at the 2024 American Legion Auxiliary Girls State of Missouri Program. The American Legion Post 189, Mr. John Williams, Mrs. Christina Winters, and Mr. Roger Meyers graciously sponsored the young women's participation.

In addition, juniors Christian Bartow, son of Richard and Kara Bartow, Patrick Green, son of David and Patricia Green, George

Hoelzel, son of David and Laura Hoelzel, and Corey Jones, son of Marcus and Samara Jones, have been accepted and plan to attend, participate, and represent SCA at the 2024 American Legion Boys State of Missouri Program.

Mr. Matthew Crouch, on behalf of Kansas City Milex Complete Auto Care and Mr. Transmission, as well as an anonymous SCA family, graciously sponsored the young men's participation.

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, MO, the boys and girls sessions will run simultaneously June 22-29.

Sophomore Selected to attend Missouri Rotary Youth Leadership Academy

Sophomore Breilly Ferguson was selected to attend the Missouri Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (MO RYLA) being held this summer at the University of Central Missouri (UCM) in Warrensburg.

The MO RYLA program introduces Rotary’s “Service Above Self” philosophy with a 4-day, 3-night program which includes a leadership assessment, a day of professional team building, and a two-day service project simulations that the participants design and develop. The Missouri program has been recognized by Rotary International as one of the model RYLA programs in the world.

Debate Students Compete at NSDA National Championships

SCA students will compete at the National Speech and Debate Association National Championships. They were chosen based on having successful seasons and coaches' confidence in their individual events. Some may compete in two events. Pray for them as they represent SCA in the National competition.

Junior high students set to compete are Mason Anderson, Leo Butler, Carson Shrum, Elijah Zicari, Josiah Zicari, and Junius Yancik.

High school students competing are Jackson Shrum and Eli Skinner.

Jackson Shrum, Expository Speaking, Impromptu

Eli Skinner, Commentary Extemp, Impromptu

Mason Anderson, Lincoln Douglas Debate

Junius Yancik, Original Oratory, Impromptu

Leo Butler, Public Forum Debate

Elijah Zicari, Public Forum Debate

Josiah Zicari, Public Forum Debate

Carson Shrum, Public Forum Debate

Sophomore Breilly Ferguson

Academics

Senior Earns Missouri Seal of Biliteracy

SCA is proud to announce that senior Karly Gregg earned the Missouri Seal of Biliteracy award in Spanish, which is in conjunction with the Missouri Department of Education. SCA American World Language students have opportunities to earn to Seal of Biliteracy in Spanish, French, or Chinese. Students may also test as a Heritage Language Speaker of another language.

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 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 or English 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.

Creativity in Science

The Junior/Senior Environmental Science course is the study of how living things interact with the environment, biomes, energy, and renewable/nonrenewable resources. Recently, the Environmental Science students built "off the grid" (not physically hooked up to utilities by wires, pipes or cables and, therefore, relying completely on their own energy sources), fully sustainable properties!

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.

Freshman Competes in Rotary Four-Way Speech Contest

SCA hosted guests from the Lee’s Summit Rotary to judge 13 students in competing in the Rotary Four-Way Speech Contest.

The Four-Way Test Speech Competition requires students to prepare a five- to seven-minute speech to persuade others, while applying one or more principles of the Rotary Four-Way test: “Is it the truth, is it fair to all concerned, will it build goodwill and better friendships, and will it be beneficial to all concerned?”

Freshman Jackson Shrum placed first in the competition with freshman Elena Michael placing second and senior Audrey Ellett placing third.

Shrum went on to share his speech at the Lee’s Summit Rotary Noon Club, where he was the only freshman competing and earned fourth place.

L-R: International Program Director Rocco DeFelice with seniors David Beltran, Ginny Baxter, Karly Gregg, and Anna Hammond who are the recipients of the Distinguished Seal and the Seal of Biliteracy cords. SCA senior Karly Gregg (second from right) received her award this year.

Freshman Jackson Shrum took fourth place at the Lee’s Summit Rotary Noon Club’s Four-Way Speech Contest.

SCA students Gabe Harris, Levi Tomlin, and John Brooks show their "off the grid" renewable model.

Academics

Top Students Honored at Graduation

Senior Receives VFW Scholarship

SCA honored nine graduating seniors from the Class of 2024 with an Eagle Scholar award. The Eagle Scholars are nominated by secondary teachers and the award is for the student who demonstrates exemplary abilities and gifts in the particular subject area over their four high school years at SCA, and is planning on majoring in the field or a related field. The school awards the Eagle Scholar in nine departments: Bible, Business, Communication Arts, Mathematics, Performing Arts, Science, Social Studies, Visual Arts, and World Language.

The 2024 Eagle Scholar recipients:

• Bible - Will Bisbee

• Business - David Gilkeson

• Communication Arts - Mackenzie Osborn

• Mathematics - Tony Bu

• Performing Arts - Hunter Harris

• Science - Elissa Hesman

• Social Studies - Anna Hammond

• Visual Arts - Isabella Wilson

• World Language - David Beltran

SCA Leaders in Action

Several seniors were presenters at the Lee's Summit Rotary. Members of the SCA Principal’s Council (Presidents of six different clubs) presented about leadership at SCA.

Senior Evelyn Crouch has been selected as this year’s recipient of the Jack Ray Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 5789 Scholarship for Private School students in Lee’s Summit. The VFW has a long history of supporting the development of citizenship and patriotism in our younger generations. The scholarship is for $1,000. Evelyn plans to attend Northwestern College and pursue degrees in History and English with a focus in law.

Senior Receives Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce Scholarship

Senior Elissa Hesman was the recipient of the Lee’s Summit Chamber of Commerce Education Committee’s $1,000 scholarship. One scholarship winner is selected from a Lee’s Summit private high school each year for college-bound high school seniors who have demonstrated a strong work ethic, community to community involvement, and an endless pursuit of continued growth and improvement in all facets of their lives. Elissa will attend Grand Canyon University in the fall and plans to major in Pre-Medicine.

Senior Evelyn Crouch.

L-R: Isaac Truesdale, Solomon Anderson, Anna Hammond, Elissa Hesman, Audrey Ellett, and Karinton Newton.

Senior Elissa Hesman with LS Chamber Education Committee member Kelley Manning.

Academics Entrepreneurship Scholarship Winner Announced

Senior Daniel Alonge is the 2024 recipient of the $3,000 SCA Entrepreneurship Scholarship. The Entrepreneurship Scholarship, available for SCA 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.

Daniel’s business plan "Fresh n' Fit" is a cafe and supplement store with the goal to create a positive and peaceful environment that will promote having a strong body and mind.

“Daniel has been imagining a business like this for years and his passion was obvious in the presentation of his business plan,” shared SCA Business Faculty Member Georgia Duncan. “The judges felt that he created an investable business and his business plan was very well developed.”

Daniel will be attending UMKC in the Fall.

2024 Graduates Receive Truman Heartland Community Foundation Scholarships

Five members of the 2024 graduating class were awarded six scholarships from the Truman Heartland Community Foundation.

Audrey Ellett, Odeyla Kina, and Tyler Yarbrough received the Rachel House Hudson Memorial Scholarship for $1,000. Audrey will attend Louisiana Tech University and major in Communication Studies; Odeyla will attend the University of the Nations and major in Agricultural

Technology; and Tyler will attend Grand Canyon University and major in Sports Business Management. In addition, David Gilkeson, Braeden

Wooldridge, Tyler Yarbrough received the Venable Scholarship for $7,000. David will attend the Missouri University of Science and Technology and study Aerospace Engineering. Braeden will attend Colorado Christian University and major in Business Administration.

2024 Graduate to Attend Coast Guard Academy Scholars Program

Class of 2024 graduate Marina Parks has received a $30,000 scholarship to attend the United States Coast Guard Academy Scholars Program (CGAS) and a $350,000 scholarship to attend the United States Coast Guard Academy, upon appointment.

CGAS is a one-year program designed to prepare the necessary foundation for success as an Academy Cadet. The program sends students with high potential for one year of preparatory school to develop academically, physically, and militarily. It begins with a rigorous three-week orientation, after which scholars are sent to a school of the CGAS’ selection. Most participants who successfully complete the year at CGAS receive and are expected to accept a full appointment to the Academy as a member of the next entering class.

Upon acceptance to the Academy, Marina plans to major in Marine and Environmental Science.

Senior Daniel Alonge, with SCA Business Teacher Georgia Duncan, was the recipient of the SCA Entrepreneurship Scholarship.

2024 graduate Braeden Wooldridge received the Venable Scholarship for $7,000.

2024 graduate David Gilkeson received the Venable Scholarship for $7,000.

2024 graduate Audrey Ellett received the Rachel House Hudson Memorial Scholarship for $1,000.

2024 graduate Tyler Yarbrough received the Rachel House Hudson Memorial Scholarship for $1,000 and the Venable Scholarship for $7,000.

2024 graduate Odeyla Kina received the Rachel House Hudson Memorial Scholarship for $1,000.

2024 graduate Marina Parks, pictured with Captain Steve Ohms of the United States Coast Guard, was offered a $30,000 scholarship and appointment to the U.S. Coast Guard Academy Scholars Program.

Athletics Athletes Have Memorable Spring Season

The school year went out with a bang for the Athletic Department in 2023-24. Our spring programs had memorable seasons with many outstanding achievements.

Boys and Girls Track & Field provided many great moments under new head coach, Kyle Miller, as both teams competed in Class 4 for the first time. Despite the big jump, the athletes did not look out of place. Both teams won the Crossroads Conference Championship and both finished 3rd in districts. Beyond districts, three boys and five girls qualified to compete at Class 4 State, with Marcus Jones earning All-State honors by medaling 4th in the 200m and 3rd in the 400m. With a year of experience in Class 4, Coach Miller and the returning Track & Field athletes will be more prepared next year to take on the challenge.

SCA Baseball had another outstanding season, finishing with a 19-10 record, 2nd in the Crossroads Conference, and 2nd in the District Tournament. While these are great accomplishments, they are not at the level to which the Baseball program has become accustomed. Varsity Head Coach John Gage has built a program that is used to winning conference and district championships regularly, so this season was seen as a little disappointing. However, it will only motivate Coach Gage and the returning athletes for the 2025 season.

To say the Varsity Boys Golf team, led by Coach Gary Breshears, had another great season would be a huge understatement. They won a Crossroads Conference championship, and a district championship, before proceeding to finish the year with their second straight state championship! Last year, they dominated at the Class 2 state tournament and returned this year to do the same thing in Class 3, winning the tournament by 15 strokes over the second-place team. Varsity Boys Golf is the first SCA team

to win multiple state championships and doing it back-to-back made it even more special. Peyton Smith won his second straight state title while teammate Ben Wheeler finished a close 2nd in a battle that came down to the final putts of the last hole. With most of the team returning in 2025, the team has set their sights on winning a third title in Class 4.

Lastly, if one state championship was not enough this spring, Varsity Girls Soccer earned their first state championship, which was the first state championship for any girls’ program at SCA! Their tough regular season and conference competition prepared them well for the Class 1 postseason. They dominated their opponents in the postseason outscoring them 24-1, culminating in a 3-0 win in the Class 1 State

Championship match. Coach Savanna Sallas and the team not only represented our school well with their level of competition, but they represented Christ as well in the way they carried themselves while competing. Girls Soccer will head back to Class 2 in 2025, but with a lot of girls returning, the team will be looking to continue their success.

Congratulations to all our spring coaches and athletes! Thank you for all your hard work and for representing Christ on and off the field with the way you compete and respect your opponents.

Lance Quessenberry

Varsity Girls Soccer, led by Head Coach Savanna Sallas, brought home the Class 1 State Championship from the state tournament in Fenton, MO on May 31 & June 1.

Varsity Boys Golf placed 1st in the Class 3 State Tournament on May 13-14 in Springfield, MO. This is the team's second consecutive state championship.

Fine Arts

Elementary and Jr. High Instrumentalists Perform

Fifth/sixth grade Beginning Band, Intermediate Band, Strings, and Junior Eagle Singers joined the Junior High Band, Strings, and Choir in a combined Spring concert. The 5-8th grade orchestra opened the program and the concert was not only a showcase of how much new musicians had learned but also a time to honor students for accomplishments in competitions.

For the first time in SCA history, a Junior High Honors Choir competed at the Midwest Christian School Festival. They received a I and first place medal that was presented to them at the concert. Also at the Midwest Christian School Festival, the Boys Choir received the highest rating in the Festival. A Girls Ensemble, a girl's duet and six soloists received I ratings and medals. Zeke Croucher on percussion received a medal for highest ranking in the Midwest Christian Festival. These students were all honored at the concert by receiving their medals and ribbons.

The Beginning Band, Intermediate Band, Strings, and Junior Eagle Singers all received a I rating at the SCA Academic and Fine Arts Festival and were recognized at the concert.

The concert happened to fall on the exact date of Dr. Turner's 50th wedding anniversary. He gave a tribute to his wife and they were honored with a card and gift for their beautiful example of love and commitment in marriage. A reception was held following the concert. Dr. Turner is famous for his Friday cookies and, of course, not only a beautiful cake was served, but also cookies.

Elementary Band Competes at Music Festival

The Elementary Band participated in the Music Festival held in April and were adjudicated by former SCA Elementary Music Director Mrs. Angy Bounds. What a great way for SCA students to explore their gifts and talents at SCA.

Brantley Nungester, Niq Siemsen, Ayden Kelley, James Howes, and Daniel Elizondo and Mrs. Jennifer Pinkston.

Fine Arts

Vocalists Earn Gold Medals at State Music Festival

Five soloists and three ensembles received the top rating of Gold at the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) State Music Festival.

Soloists earning a rating of Gold included juniors Emma Coats, Addison Davies, and George Hoelzel. Seniors earning a Gold rating included Hunter Harris and Hannah Wyssmann.

Three SCA ensembles received a rating of Gold including JSE Boys:

David Gilkeson, Adrian Haack, Hunter Harris, George Hoelzel, James Lee, Owen Stienstra, Harrison Williams, and Braeden Wooldridge; JSE Junior Mixed Ensemble: Emma Coats, Addison Davies, George Hoelzel, James Lee, Abagail Stidham, Michael Ward and Avery Whitfield; and JSE Senior Mixed Ensemble: David Gilkeson, Hunter Harris, Jaidyn Hohl, Karinton Newton, Mackenzie Osborn, Owen Stienstra, Hannah Wyssmann and Xander Zumwalt.

Addison Davies and George

and

for their vocal solos at the

State

Three SCA ensembles received a rating of gold including JSE Boys, JSE Senior Mixed Ensemble and JSE Junior Mixed Ensemble. State Gold medalists in an ensemble included front row L-R: Emma Coats, Hannah Wyssmann, Abagail Stidham, Jaidyn Hohl, Avery Whitfield, Mackenzie Osborn, Karinton Newton, and Addison Davies. Back row L-R: Adrian Haack, Michael Ward, Xander Zumwalt, David Gilkeson, Hunter Harris, Braeden Wooldridge, George Hoelzel, James Lee, Owen Stienstra, and Harry Williams.

Artists Compete at the University of Central Missouri Art Contest Day

Sophomore Kailee Burke

Contest.

Ten artists participated in the University of Central Missouri (UCM) High School Art Contest Day. As part of the contest, students visit the UCM campus and have two hours to create artwork on-site to be judged for artistic merit, or participate in noncompetitive workshops.

For UCM Art Contest Day, three students earned “1” ratings for the work they created including freshman Christine Xiong (drawing still life) and sophomores Kailee Burke (painting still life) and Moriah Kilen (drawing still life). Seniors Charlotte Brownlee (painting still life), Sarina Manjili (painting still life), and Aubrianna Kennedy (drawing still life) earned “2” ratings for their creations.

Students attending noncompetitive workshops included freshmen Zoey McGuire (Ceramics) and Reece Carter (Photography), and juniors Marin Akeson (Ceramics) and Tristen Hamline (Figure Drawing).

paints a still life at the UCM Art

L-R: Juniors Emma Coats,

Hoelzel

seniors Hunter Harris and Hannah Wyssmann all received a gold rating

MSHSAA

Music Festival.

Moriah Kilen's still life drawing earned a "1" rating at the UCM Art Contest Day.

Kailee Burke's still life painting earned a "1" rating at the UCM Art Contest Day.

Christine Xiong's still life drawing earned a "1" rating at the UCM Art Contest Day.

Fine Arts

Artists Receive Recognition at Citizen's Civic, Cultural Committee Youth Art

Show & Fifth Congressional Art Competition

Freshman Ruisi (Christine) Xiong’s ink drawing “Reflective SelfPortrait” was awarded the Roger T. Sermon, Jr. "Most Promising New Artist Award" out of the 34 first year art students in the overall exhibition at the “Festival of Color” Youth Art Show.

Twelve talented artists entered 16 artworks in the 32nd "Festival of Color" Youth Art Show hosted by the Citizen's Civic and Cultural Committee in cooperation with Independence Parks, Recreation & Tourism. The judged art show featured 301 artworks from 233 artists in nine categories from eight Eastern Jackson County high schools. Freshman Ruisi (Christine) Xiong was awarded $100 for the Roger T. Sermon, Jr. "Most Promising New Artist Award" out of the 34 first-year art students in the overall exhibition. Additionally, Christine received a $30 second place award in the Drawing category out of 74 entries for her ink

Freshman Ruisi (Christine) Xiong’s ink drawing “Reflective SelfPortrait” was awarded the Roger T. Sermon, Jr. "Most Promising New Artist Award" and was the U.S. Fifth Congressional District Art Competition winner.

drawing "Reflective Self-Portrait." In addition, senior Charlotte Brownlee received fourth place honorable mention in the acrylic/oil painting category out of 36 entries for her painting "Cambodian Dream.”

Christine is also the 2024 United States Fifth Congressional District Art Competition winner. Her art, “Reflective SelfPortrait,” will be displayed at the U.S Capitol and Christine will receive roundtrip tickets to attend the annual reception in late June. Winners are recognized in both their district and at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. where their works are displayed for one year at the United States Capitol building.

Theatre Students Receive Blue Star Nominations

Three secondary students were nominated for Starlight Theatre’s Blue Star Awards for the SCA musical theatre production of Brigadoon.

Starlight’s annual Blue Star Awards recognize achievement and excellence in musical theatre among Kansas City area high school students. High schools in metropolitan Kansas City and surrounding areas are invited to participate, and each year over 5,000 area students contribute either on the stage or behind the scenes in their school’s musical theatre production.

Fifty-six musicals participated this year and there are seven nominations for each category. Senior Hannah Wyssmann received two nominations for Senior Rising Star Scholarship and Outstanding Performer in

a Lead Role. Ella Jones and Nora Schuh received a nomination for Outstanding Costume Design. All nominations were for the SCA musical theatre production of Brigadoon

“SCA Theatre Nominees for Blue Star Awards and Cappies have proven their dedication to theatre arts by consistent preparation, profound leadership, joy-filled performances both behind the scenes, and fulfilling roles that resonate in memories for a lifetime,” shared SCA Theatre Director Nancy Horine. “Well done! Congratulations to all who contributed to the recognitions we experienced this theatre season: we celebrate your talents and passion for excellence. We thank God for His gifts displayed in you, and given back to Him for His glory.”

Senior Charlotte Brownlee’s painting, “Cambodian Dream."

Freshman Ruisi (Christine) Xiong

Senior Hannah Wyssmann (center) received two nominations for Senior Rising Star Scholarship and Outstanding Performer in a Lead Role. Nora Schuh (left) and Ella Jones (right) were nominated for Outstanding Costume Design.

Fine Arts

SCA Theatre Department Receives Cappies

Nominations

SCA Theatre department has received 11 nominations with a total of 16 actors and stage crew members, for the Cappies Awards. The Kansas City Cappies is a student journalism organization that reviews local school theatrical productions 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.

Nominees from SCA include:

• Lead Actor in a Male Role in a Musical - Hunter Harris for Brigadoon

• Choreography for a Musical - Abbie Cook for Brigadoon

• Comic Actor in a Female Role in a Musical - Emma Coats for Brigadoon

• Dancer in a Female Role - Mackenzie Osborn for Brigadoon

• Costumes for a Musical -Violet Darby, Ella Jones, Jenna Jones & Nora Schuh for Brigadoon

• Sets for a Musical - Hunter Harris, Charli Hinton, James Lee & Braeden Wooldridge for Brigadoon

• Comic Actor in a Male Role in a Play - Charlotte Brownlee for The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe

• Dancer in a Female Role - Mackenzie Osborn for The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe

• Choreography for a Play - Savanah Topping & Mackenzie Osborn for The Lion, The Witch & the Wardrobe

• Costumes for a Play - Ella Jones & Nora Schuh for The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe

• Stage Crew for a Play - Addison Davies, Sean McCarty, and Hannah Ho for The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe

SCA Theatre Department Cappies nominations for the SCA play The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe: Comic Actor in a Male Role in a Play - Charlotte Brownlee, Dancer in a Female Role - Mackenzie Osborn, Choreography for a Play - Savanah Topping & Mackenzie Osborn, Costumes for a Play - Ella Jones & Nora Schuh, Stage Crew for a Play - Addison Davies, Hannah Ho, and Sean McCarty.

SCA Theatre Department Cappies nominations for the SCA musical production of Brigadoon. Lead Actor in a Male Role in a Musical - Hunter Harris, Choreography for a Musical - Abbie Cook, Comic Actor in a Female Role in a Musical - Emma Coats, Dancer in a Female Role - Mackenzie Osborn, Costumes for a Musical - Violet Darby, Ella Jones, Jenna Jones & Nora Schuh and Sets for a Musical - Hunter Harris, Charli Hinton, James Lee & Braeden Wooldridge.

Fine Arts Theatre Students Win Cappies Award

Four students received a Cappies Award in four different categories at the annual KC Cappies Gala held at the Folly Theatre, as well as two students were named Director’s Commendees at the ceremony.

Recipients of the Cappies awards from SCA were: Abbie Cook for Choreography for a Musical for Brigadoon, Mackenzie Osborn for Dancer in a Female Role for Brigadoon, and Ella Jones & Nora Schuh for Costumes for a Play for the production of The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe and for the musical Brigadoon. SCA students Weston Stucker & Levi Tomlin were also recognized as Director’s Commendees for their outstanding contribution to SCA Theatre. SCA senior Hannah Wyssmann performed "Almost Like Being in Love" from Brigadoon in the opening medley at the Cappies Gala.

SCA students Levi Tomlin (L) and Weston Stucker (R) were recognized as Director’s Commendees for their outstanding contribution to SCA Theatre.

Class of 2024 graduate Nora Schuh, along with classmate Ella Jones (not pictured) were the winners of a Cappies Award for Costumes for a Play for the production of The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe and for a Musical for Brigadoon.

Class of 2024 graduate Mackenzie Osborn was also the winner of a Cappies Award for Dancer in a Female Role for Brigadoon.

Senior Hannah Wyssmann performed Almost Like Being in Love from Brigadoon in the opening medley at the Cappies Gala.

Class of 2024 graduate Abbie Cook was the recipient of a Cappies Award for her work as Choreography for a Musical for Brigadoon.

International Consider Hosting an International Student

Since 2009, SCA has been blessed to have 121 international students. They’ve been a great asset to our school and have educated us by teaching us firsthand about their unique cultures, languages, and lives back home. As the 2024-2025 academic year approaches, we are excited to announce that two additional international students have been accepted at SCA!

In preparation for their August arrival, these international students from China and South Korea have been organizing their class schedules, 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 doors and hearts 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 ($824), 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 six of the nine students placed in host families, which is amazing, but still need families for the remaining three 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.

Camp Eagle Summit off to a great start

Older campers have been enjoying whole and small group time, pool days, lunches in the park, off-campus field trips, and visits to the library. Junior campers have been filling their days with outdoor play, circle and center time, special visitors, and water play. All campers participate in music and PE classes each week. The theme for CES this year is “Jesus is My Superhero!” All campers are spending time together learning about different superheroes of the Bible, with the ultimate focus on Jesus as the greatest hero of all. It’s going to be an action-packed summer!

International student Leo Lei with his host family, the Penwells.

Christine Xiong with her host family, the Wilsons.

End of Year Party with international students and their buddies!

CES camper Ashtyn Meinders soaking up a little sun at Summit Waves.

CES Jr. campers enjoyed a visit from Zoo Mobile!

This & That

Cordell's Corner: SCA Families Need Your Investment in the Missouri School Choice Program

Many SCA families qualify for these scholarships, worth $6,375 per student per year, but there isn’t enough money in the fund to pay what they are entitled to receive.

It’s easy for you to help them out AND IT WON’T COST YOU A DIME!

With just a few easy steps you can provide money for scholarships for these SCA families, which may include your own family, if you qualify.

Any family OR BUSINESS that has a Missouri state income tax liability of at least $1,000 should participate. (Look at line 36 of your most recent state income tax return to verify that you qualify). You may contribute up to 50% of this tax liability each year.

Remember that you are simply redirecting your income tax payments that would have been paid to the State of Missouri anyway, so there is absolutely no cost to you.

Health Office Reminders in Preparation 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 scanurse@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 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 14, 2024. 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 the student is

Here’s all you need to do:

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. Decide the amount you are planning to invest in the MOScholars Fund and note this in the appropriate space and then submit the form.

4. The Herzog Tomorrow Foundation will contact you with the final instructions for the payment of the 100% deductible investment in the MOScholars Fund. Your payment will be followed up with a receipt for your income tax preparer. 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.

covered through 12th grade. Please do NOT write “all” as this is not accepted by the State of MO. Thank you!

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:

• 3 doses of Hepatitis B

• 3-4 doses of Hib

• 2 doses of MMR

• 5 doses of Dtap

• 4 doses of Polio

• 2 doses of Varicella

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 scanurse@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 medication, we absolutely can! We just need the correct form on file. Please email us with questions.

Cordell Dick Director of Access & Affordability

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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

Aug 20

Aug 21

Aug 22

Aug 23

Aug 27

Aug 28

Senior Mission Trip

Senior Open House 9 am

Junior Open House 1 pm

Sophomore Open House 9 am

Freshman Open House 1 pm

Jr. High Open House 9 am, 1 pm

JV/V Fall Sports Picture Day

Early Ed Open House & Popsicles on the Playground 3-5 pm

Elementary Back to School Night 4-7 pm

Elementary Fall Sports Meeting 6 pm

Secondary Back to School 5:30-7 pm

First Day of School (EARLY RELEASE) for K-12 and Early Ed 3- & 5-Day Classes

First Day of School for Early Ed 2-Day Classes

Magnificent Moms Meeting 8:15 am

Secondary & Early Ed School Picture Day

Elementary & Early Ed School Picture Day

Jr. High Fall Sports Picture Day

Aug 29 PIE Night 5:30 pm

Aug 30 Secondary Blue Crew Day

Sept 2 Labor Day (NO SCHOOL)

Sept 5 Elementary Red Thursday

Sept 6 First Friday 8:30 am

Sept 13 NO SCHOOL (Professional Development)

enjoy your summer