A newsletter for friends, staff, and parents of Summit Christian Academy Summer 2025
"Turf's Up" at SCA
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
This summer, Summit Christian Academy is celebrating exciting progress on the Fields of Dreams campaign! We’re thrilled to share that we have made significant headway in making turf a reality on our campus! Here’s what has been happening this summer:
• Turf for Football & Soccer Fields – Work is underway to create a safer, more consistent playing surface for our teams to train and compete.
• Turf for Baseball Infield & Wings (foul lines) –This update will allow the SCA Softball team to play home games right here on campus for the first time!
• Turf for the West Field – This space, currently used by our football team for practices, will soon be transformed into a versatile area for Junior High and Elementary games, PE classes, practices, and recess.
• Track Resurfacing – A fresh new surface will be laid in the Fall of 2025 at the completion of fall sports.
We’re also excited to announce a dedication ceremony to celebrate these new facilities on August 29. Mark your calendars and join us as we thank those who have invested in the campaign and celebrate, dedicate and pray for God’s provision and usage of this renovated space. If you would still like to give to the SCA Fields of Dreams campaign, scan the QR code.
SCA baseball and softball field preparing for turf.
Spiritual Christian Character Recipients
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 third quarter are first grade student Oakley Hodges, son of Shawn and Faith Hodges, and sixth grade student James Howes, son of Phil and Lindsay Howes.
Junior High Christian Character recipients for the second semester are siblings seventh grade student Zachariah Zicari and eighth grade student Makayla Zicari, son and daughter of Sean and Amber Zicari.
Senior High Christian Character recipients for the second semester are
seniors Charli Hinton, daughter of Gary and Kristi Hinton, and Michael
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 and is announced at the annual Secondary Awards Ceremony.
Senior Savannah McConnell, daughter of Preston and Michelle McConnell, has been named the 2024-25 Student of the Year. Savannah has attended SCA for six years and will study education and play collegiate soccer at Cedarville University.
Freshman Completes Girls Scout Gold Project
Freshman Paige Thomas recently completed the process of presenting, fundraising, creating, and building her Gold Award Project idea of a Percussion Park “Percussion at Play” at Rotary Youth Camp. The project was made possible through her many fundraising presentations raising support and generous donations from
multiple local organizations and Rotary Clubs.
Percussion at Play, which celebrated its ribbon cutting and dedication on March 22, includes chimes, xylophones, drums, and more for the Rotary Youth Camp located on Colbern Road. The Youth Camp serves the special needs youth and young adult population at no cost all summer long. These percussion instruments will provide costeffective and sustainable entertainment for the campers.
The Gold Award is the highest and most prestigious award in Girls Scouts and is awarded to less than 6% of all Girl Scouts.
“This percussion park was
installed because I wanted others to have the chance to enjoy music and so that people could make music, either by themselves or with others,” shared SCA
freshman Paige Thomas. “Music has many beneficial impacts on people, and can completely change one’s life.”
“SCA is proud of Paige and her leadership and service on campus and in our community,” shared SCA Head of School Mr. Chris Hahn.
Ward, son of Keith and Melinda Ward.
First grade student Oakley Hodges (L) and sixth grade student James Howes (R) with Elementary Assistant Principal Shauna Borgstadt and Elementary Principal Kelly Montgomery.
Freshman Paige Thomas presented, fundraised, created, and built a Percussion Park at the Rotary Youth Camp on Colbern Road for her Gold Award Project.
Seniors Michael Ward and Charli Hinton Senior Savannah McConnell
Academics Fifth Grade Student Takes Third at International Spelling Bee
Fifth grade student Sterling Brockhouse earned third place in the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) International Spelling Bee. She qualified for the International Bee as it included the top six winners from the three Divisional Spelling Bees. The International Spelling Bee is the highest level of competition available to SCA students.
Junior High Students Inducted Into NJHS
L-R:
Twenty-two 7th and 8th graders were inducted into the National Junior Honor Society on March 29. Students apply for membership which is based on the five pillars of scholarship, leadership, service, character, and citizenship.
Freshman Selected to attend Missouri Rotary Youth Leadership Academy
Freshman Garrett Gordon was selected to attend the Missouri Rotary Youth Leadership Academy (RYLA) being held at the University of Central Missouri (UCM) in Warrensburg this summer. RYLA is for incoming high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors who exhibit a heart for community service. Garrett was nominated for the leadership academy and completed an essay and interview process.
The Missouri 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 simulation. The Missouri program has been recognized by Rotary International as one of the model RYLA programs in the world.
Message from SCA Head of School Chris Hahn
As one year concludes, planning is well underway for welcoming back children, families, faculty and staff for learning and ministry in August. Our theme for 2025-26 school year is ONE SCA based on Psalm 133:1, “How good it is when my children dwell together in unity.”
• We serve One God.
• We are united by One Mission
• We begin a new year as One Team. In a culture that often emphasizes individual success, we are called to a higher standard: unity in Christ.
Thank each of you for the partnership we share in creating and sustaining though God’s grace, ONE SCA
Fifth grade student Sterling Brockhouse
Chris Hahn
(front row) Jordyn Mann, Addison Knox, Olivia Mick, Reece Hill, Ellie Hawes, Sidney Dahmer, Riley Carter, Ellie Augustine; (middle row) Reed Stull, Nicholas Breshears, Edy Lake, Elena Gim, Mollie Epema, Lyrica Arroyo; (back row) Alex Kim, Eli Janssen, Owen Mummert, William Kilgore, Wesley Kilgore, Cohen Asher. Not pictured: Corinne Kirkpatrick, Serenity Woodle.
Freshman Garrett Gordon
Academics
Juniors to Represent SCA at American Legion
Missouri Girls and Boys State
Juniors Clara-Lily Ball, daughter of Michael and Becci Ball, Breilly Ferguson, daughter of Brandon and Dr. Chantele Ferguson, and Addison Welch, daughter of Kreg and Mary Grace Welch, have been accepted to attend, participate, and represent SCA at the 2025 American Legion Auxiliary Girls State of Missouri Program.
Class of 2025 Linda Harrelson Legacy of Servant Leadership Scholarship award winner, Savannah McConnell, daughter of Preston and Michelle McConnell.
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 ChristCentered and Igniting Leadership.
“We had many wonderful candidates for the Linda Harrelson Legacy Scholarship this year and each would have represented SCA well, however, she is an exceptional leader in all walks of life,” shared SCA Secondary Principal Andy Pfeifer. “I have witnessed her take teammates under her wing to encourage them. I have seen her stand in the midst of trials alongside her peers and stand firm with them. She loves and pursues Christ in a natural
Junior Kate Hagan, daughter of Zach and Melissa Hagan, was also nominated and accepted but is unable to attend.
Commander John Williams from the American Legion Post 189 is graciously sponsoring the ladies’ participation.
In addition, SCA juniors Jonah Janssen, son of Andrew and Rhonda Janssen, Isaac Rieger, son of Dan and Carrie Rieger, Jack Whitford, son of Andrew and Angie Whitford, and Lucas Wiseman, son of Timothy and Rebecca Wiseman have been accepted and plan to attend,
and honest way that draws others to follow Him just by being around her. She has made a great impact on SCA!”
Savannah attended SCA for six years and was the president of the Spiritual Climate Committee, captain of the Varsity Basketball and Soccer teams, and was awarded AllState Soccer player, Soccer Player of the Year in Class 1, Basketball All District and All-Conference. She served as a small group leader and graduated Magna Cum Laude. She will study Education and play collegiate soccer at Cedarville University.
Savannah’s award was announced at the SCA 2025 Commencement Ceremony held on May 9 at Connection Point Church. She was also announced as the SCA 2025 Student of the Year.
participate, and represent SCA at the 2025 American Legion Boys State of Missouri Program which will be its 85th season. 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 21-28.
Juniors Clara-Lily Ball, Breilly Ferguson, and Addison Welch will attend and represent SCA at the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State of Missouri at Lindenwood University. Juniors Jonah Janssen, Isaac Rieger, Jack Whitford, and Lucas Wiseman will attend and represent SCA at the American Legion Boys State of Missouri at Lindenwood University.
Class of 2025 Linda Harrelson Scholarship recipient Savannah McConnell is pictured with previous SCA Head of School Linda Harrelson, for whom the scholarship was named.
Linda Harrelson Legacy of Servant Leadership Scholarship
Academics
Class of 2025 Summa Cum Laude Recipients
Class of 2025 Summa Cum Laude recipients are Lucie Epema, Ngoc (Hannah) Ho, Brynne McFarland, Abigail Shanahan, and Michael Ward.
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.
“We are blessed to have these five students represent SCA as the Summa Cum Laude students,” shared SCA Secondary Principal Andy Pfeifer. “All five have unique goals, talents,
and backgrounds, but one thing they share is their love for the Lord and desire to serve him with their giftings. These students will continue to excel in their next chapter of life and I am excited to see how God will continue to use them to help shape the next generation.”
Lucie, Hannah, Brynne, Abigail, and Michael were speakers at the SCA Class of 2025 Commencement Ceremony. SCA’s Class of 2025 had 89 graduates who were awarded approximately $3.5 million in scholarship offers.
Top Students honored Through Eagle Scholars Program
Nine graduating seniors from the Class of 2025 were honored with the Eagle Scholar award. Eagle Scholars are nominated by secondary teachers and the award is for students who demonstrates exemplary abilities and gifts in a particular subject area over their four high school years at SCA and plan to major 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 2025 Eagle Scholar recipient for Bible was Max Rieger; the SCA 2025 Eagle Scholar recipient for Business was Ben Peterson; the SCA 2025 Eagle Scholar recipient for Communication Arts was Emma Coats; the SCA 2025 Eagle Scholar recipient for Mathematics was Lucie Epema; the SCA 2025 Eagle Scholar recipient for Performing Arts was Charli Hinton; the SCA 2025 Eagle Scholar recipient for Science was Abigail Shanahan; the SCA 2025 Eagle Scholar recipient for Social Studies was Arin Nieto; the SCA 2025 Eagle Scholar recipient for Visual Arts was Tristen Hamline; and the SCA 2025 Eagle Scholar recipient for World Language was George Hoelzel.
Senior Lucie Epema plans to study Biology/Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University.
Senior Abigail Shanahan plans to study Physical Therapy at Rockhurst University.
Senior Michael Ward plans to study Mathematics with an emphasis in Data Analytics at Baker University.
Senior Brynne McFarland plans to study Biological Engineering/Pre-Dentistry at the University of Missouri.
Senior Ngoc (Hannah) Ho plans to study Business Administration with a Finance concentration at Indiana University.
Tristen Hamline Visual Arts
Max Rieger Bible Ben Peterson Business
Emma Coats Communication Arts
Lucie Epema Mathematics
Charli Hinton Performing Arts
Abigail Shanahan Science
Arin Nieto Social Studies
George Hoelzel World Language
Academics
SCA Entrepreneurship Scholarship
Winner
Senior Ben Peterson is the 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.
Senior Receives Truman Heartland Community Foundation Scholarship
Senior Charli Hinton was awarded a scholarship from the Truman Heartland Community Foundation.
Charli received the Venable Scholarship for $7,000, which is for students who will major in either business or engineering. Charli plans to attend Grand Canyon University and major in Business with an emphasis in Risk Management and Global Communications.
Ben Peterson's business plan is "Peterson's Private Equity & Agency."
“Ben has a unique idea for a business,” shared SCA Business Faculty member Georgia Duncan. “He began working toward this business venture earlier this year as he began studying for his Real Estate license. The judges were very impressed with Ben's maturity in how well he presented his business idea and how thoroughly he had developed his written business plan.”
Ben will be attending UMKC in the Fall where he plans to study Business Management with an emphasis in Entrepreneurship.
Senior Receives Rotary Scholarship
Senior Lydia Kemper is the recipient of a $2000 Rotary Club of Lee’s Summit scholarship for two years at an Metropolitan Community College (MCC) campus. Lydia will attend MCCLongview.
Senior Receives Blue Springs Elks Lodge Scholarship
Senior Abigail Shanahan is the recipient of the Elks Lodge - Blue Springs Lodge #2509 scholarship for Academics and Community Service.
Abigail received a $2,000 award and plans to attend Rockhurst University as part of the Doctor of Physical Therapy program with a major in Exercise Science and Spanish.
Senior Receives Kansas City Elks Lodge Scholarship
Senior Hannah Deister is the recipient of the Elks Lodge - Kansas City #26 scholarship for Most Valuable Student for service.
Hannah received a $1,000 award and plans to attend Baylor University to study Communication Sciences and Disorders.
Senior Ben Peterson pictured with SCA Business Teacher Georgia Duncan.
Class of 2025 graduate Charli Hinton
Class of 2025 graduate Lydia Kemper
Class of 2025 graduate Abigail Shanahan
Class of 2025 graduate Hannah Deister
Athletics Varsity Athletics Wraps Up Another Successful Season
by Athletic Director Lance Quessenberry
It seems to be this way every year, but our spring sports programs all had outstanding seasons. Not only were they competitive, but they represented SCA well in their actions and attitudes.
The Varsity Boys Golf team, led by Coach Breshears, continued their dominance this year with another state title, this time in Class 4. That makes 3 in a row, all in different classes! In 2023, they won in Class 2 and again in 2024 in Class 3. This accomplishment made Missouri state history as the only time a program has won three consecutive state titles in three different classes. Individually, Peyton Smith won his third straight state title and Ben Wheeler finished a close 4th. With the full team returning in 2026, the team has set their sights on winning a fourth straight state title, regardless of the class in which they compete.
The inaugural season for Boys Tennis was a huge success. Usually, a new program’s first season is to improve and hope to become competitive as soon as possible. That was not the case for this team. Coach Peek had them competing at a high level from the first competition. They finished the season with a winning record, and individually, the doubles team of Max Rieger and Isaac Rieger earned All-State honors by finishing 8th in the Class 1 State tournament. What an awesome way to get the program started! This team will compete even stronger next year as the athletes return with more experience.
The Boys and Girls Track and Field programs provided many great moments under Varsity Head Coach Kyle Miller. Both teams won the Crossroads Conference championship and both finished 3rd in their district meets. Ten athletes qualified to compete in the Class 4 State tournament, where the top finishers were Leo Butler who placed 9th in the 3200m and 11th in the
1600m and Paris Newton who placed 10th in the 400m. With many strong athletes among the underclassmen, SCA Track & Field will continue its legacy of success!
Varsity Baseball had another outstanding season. They finished the season 266, placed second in the Crossroads Conference, and won the program’s tenth district title. These are great accomplishments, but Coach Gage and the players were undoubtedly disappointed they did not go further in the state tournament. Unfortunately, sometimes the other team just has a better day and that left our baseball team with a 3-7 loss in the state sectional game. As disappointing as that was, they still accomplished great things this year. SCA fans can look forward to another great season in 2026.
As the Class 1 defending state champions, Varsity Girls Soccer hoped
to continue their success from 2024.
The 2025 season started with a jump from Class 1 to Class 3 and ended with a 14-5 record. In between, they had wins over multiple state ranked programs, placed second in the Crossroads Conference, and second in the district tournament. Coach Sallas and the team represented SCA well with their level of competition, but even more, they represented Christ in the way they carried themselves while competing. Girls Soccer will compete in Class 3 again next year as they continue their high level of play with many girls returning.
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
In their first season of competition, senior Max Rieger and junior Isaac Rieger earned All-State honors at the Class 1 State tournament.
Athletics Golf Team Wins Third Consecutive State Title
Congratulations to Varsity Boys Golf on their Back-to-Backto-Back State wins! The team won their third consecutive state title at Silo Ridge Golf Course in Bolivar.
Junior Peyton Smith (pictured left) was state champion for the third consecutive year.
Varsity Baseball Earns Tenth District Title
Athlete Receives Derrick Thomas Service Award
Varsity Baseball finished their season 26-6, winning their 10th district title, and finishing 2nd in the Crossroads Conference. They were ranked #1 in Class 4 State for most of the season but fell short in the sectional state playoffs. They tied the school records for total wins in the season (26) and most consecutive wins in a season (20). Nine players earned All-Conference and All-District honors, including Mason Kates, Brooks Zumwalt, Keelan Zumwalt, Carter Jeffries, Garrett Dorian, Nathan Medsker, Kaden DeLapp, Jag Garrison, and Jackson Bowen.
Thank you to our seniors for all they have done for our program and to their parents for their support. The Class of 2025 seniors were Kaden DeLapp, Mason Kates, Jackson Bowen, Ethan Chouteau, and Max Williams. Congratulations to Kaden and Mason who will continue their baseball careers in college next year.
Senior Michael Ward received the first place Derrick Thomas Service Award for the Derrick Thomas/Neil Smith Third and Long Foundation. The award was announced recently at the 25th Silver Jubilee Gala at Arrowhead Stadium.
The Derrick Thomas/Neil Smith Third and Long Foundation was founded by Derrick Thomas, who was named one of the greatest pass rushers of all time and was a Chiefs defensive end. The Foundation, along with Papa John’s Pizza, recognizes a Greater Kansas City high school senior football athlete who assumes the challenge of serving his community. To be eligible, high school seniors must reflect the commitment of service.
Michael received a check for $1,500 and a Papa John’s Pizza party for the SCA Eagles Varsity Football Team.
Varsity Baseball won their 10th district championship with a 2-0 win over St Michael's High School on May 21.
Senior Michael Ward, pictured with Neil Smith, received the first place Derrick Thomas Service Finalist Award for the Derrick Thomas/Neil Smith Third and Long Foundation.
The team earning their third consecutive title consisted of (L-R) juniors Peyton Smith and Jack Seitz, freshman Max Seitz, and juniors Ben Wheeler and Tristan Aitkens.
Fine Arts Artists Compete at UCM High School Art Contest
Multiple artists participated in the University of Central Missouri High School Art Contest Day and Workshops. For the event, art students go to the UCM Campus and create artwork onsite that is then judged for artistic merit.
The students received the following ratings for the work that they created at the event:
1 Senior Marin Akeson and sophomore Christine (Ruisi) Xiong
2 Senior Tristen Hamline
3 Seniors Hannah Deister and Violet Newcomer
The following students attended art workshops offered: Freshman Callie Wooldridge; sophomores Zoey McGuire and Reece Carter; juniors Kailee Burke, Aubree Cubley, and Moriah Kilen; and seniors Maximus Henry and Lydia Redman.
SCA Artist Ties for Second Place in Art Competition
Congratulations to junior Kailee Burke, whose acrylic painting "Little Angel" tied for second place in the U.S. 5th Congressional District Art Competition.
Sophomore Wins Rebranding Contest for Local Company
Sophomore Christine (Ruisi) Xiong won a logo/ rebranding contest for SCA Corporate Partner K.C. Metro Lawn & Snow, a local, family-owned company providing service to businesses and homeowners. They offered a contest to SCA artists to anonymously submit designs for their rebranding contest. Many designs were submitted, and Christine’s winning design will be featured on K.C. Metro Lawn & Snow’s heavy equipment.
Sophomore Christine (Ruisi) Xiong’s winning design in the rebranding competition.
Senior Marin Akeson Painting, Still Life
Sophomore Christine (Ruisi) Xiong Drawing, Model
Fine Arts
SCA Theatre Students Honored at Cappies Gala
Four SCA theatre students were honored at the annual KC Cappies Gala, held May 24 at the historic Folly Theatre. Two students received a prestigious Cappies Award, while two others were named Director’s Commendees for their exceptional contributions to the SCA Theatre program.
The Kansas City Cappies is a student-led journalism and theatre critique organization that reviews high school productions across the metro area. The season concludes with a redcarpet gala, featuring performances from the highest-rated shows and presenting awards to standout performers, technicians, writers, and creators.
Senior Addison Davies and junior Victor Nichols received the Cappies Award for Creativity for their original music and score composed for SCA’s production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Their unique musical contributions significantly enhanced the play’s overall experience and received high acclaim from Cappies critics.
Additionally, seniors Emma Coats and George Hoelzel were named Director’s Commendees for their outstanding dedication and talent within the SCA Theatre program. Both students were also selected to perform in the gala’s opening medley, singing “Till There Was You” from The Music Man.
SCA Theatre is a proud member of both the Kansas City Cappies and the International Thespian Society, fostering a strong commitment to
and theatrical student achievement.
SCA Theatre Student Receives Blue Star Nomination
Junior Abigail Gleason was nominated for one of Starlight Theatre’s Blue Star Awards. Abigail was nominated for Outstanding Performer in a Featured Role as Zaneeta Shinn in the SCA musical theatre production of The Music Man
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 6,000 area students contribute either on the stage or behind the scenes in their school’s musical theatre production.
Sixty-six musicals participated this year and there are seven nominations for each category.
“Abby can handle dramatic roles with unusual transparency and sincerity, but as Zaneeta Shinn, her innocent believability, combined with unstoppable comedic timing, gave her that sparkling edge,” shared SCA Theatre Director Nancy Horine. “Abby is poised for any role, but is living proof there are no small parts on the way to success and fulfillment as a performer. She will definitely be showcasing her gifts, and continue to be a tremendous example in SCA Theatre where she holds leadership positions, and has established herself as a writer, director, producer, and actress in our One Act Spring productions. Congratulations, Abby, on a nomination well deserved!”
artistic excellence
Senior Addison Davies and junior Victor Nichols (not pictured) were awarded the Cappies Award for Creativity for original music in A Midsummer Night’s Dream.
Seniors George Hoelzel and Emma Coats were honored as Director’s Commendees and performed “Till There Was You” from The Music Man at the KC Cappies Gala.
Junior Abigail Gleason received a Blue Star Nomination for Outstanding Performer in a Featured Role, as Zaneeta Shinn in The Music Man!
Fine Arts SCA Theatre Concludes Year with One Acts
SCA Theatre students concluded the year as they took the stage to perform a collection of original One Act plays written by their peers. Featured shows included Hint, Are You Smarter than an Adult Parent, Between Floors, Echoes of You, Spill the Tea, The Game of Life, Are You For Real, and Read the Room
“It was such a great experience to conclude our time on the stage at SCA with such a wide array of One Acts,” shared senior Emma Coats. “One of my favorite roles this year was as Children’s Literature in Read the Room.”
Vocalists earn Gold Medals at State Music Festival
SCA is pleased to announce that four soloists and an ensemble 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 sophomore Violet Darby and seniors Emma Coats, Addison Davies, and George Hoelzel.
SCA’s Junior Senior Ensemble, including Emma Coats, Addison
Davies, Charli Hinton, Aydra Meyer, Hailey Robinson, Abagail Stidham, and Avery Whitfield received a gold rating as well.
In addition, SCA freshman Ana Nichols and senior Marah Stillwell received silver for their violin solos, and Abigail Gleason, Ana Nichols, and Victor Nichols received silver for their Piano Trio.
SCA Theatre students are stuck in an elevator in the One Act play Between Floors, written by senior Addie Davies.
Fine Arts
Junior High Musicians Compete
The junior high choir and orchestra competed along with 26 other Christian schools at the Midwest Christian School Academic and Fine Arts Festival hosted by Calvary University.
This & That Cordell's
Some things never change. The reason Summit Christian Academy is worthy of your support is a great example. I believe this article, similar to one written about six years ago, is worth repeating.
Fundraising at SCA is essentially inviting people to invest in fulfilling the school’s mission – its reason for being. Donors may support a specific aspect of the school, like athletics, fine arts, technology, or facility improvements. But in the end, it’s about investing in the lives of students, the true beneficiaries. It’s about making the written mission statement a reality for students in incremental ways each and every school day.
SCA’s concise mission statement is often quoted — “to inspire students to achieve their God-given potential through excellent academics and Christian training in a compassionate environment.” Let’s break that down a bit.
To inspire students means to stimulate, motivate, and encourage each of them throughout all classes and school-
related activities. Our passion is for students to achieve their God-given potential. What a tall order! That requires discernment, wisdom, and perseverance.
Excellent academic teaching is infused with a God-consciousness in both content and delivery. The teacher is sensitive and adaptable to each and every student’s willingness and ability to learn. All is done with compassion. Students feel, deeply, that they are loved and accepted as God’s unique handiwork.
That is our mission at SCA…and the reason we ask for your support. Together we can transform the lives of our students.
Thank you for your partnership. If you have any questions about making a gift to SCA, call me at 816.525.1480 or email me at cordelld@sca-kc.org.
Cordell Dick Director of Access & Affordability
International Welcoming the Nations to SCA
Since 2007, SCA has had the privilege of hosting 92 international students. These students have brought rich cultural perspectives to our school, allowing us to learn firsthand about life in other parts of the world. Their presence has been a blessing to our community both academically and spiritually.
As we prepare for the 2025–26 school year, we’re excited to welcome two new international students— one from China and one from Kenya! They are currently getting ready for their August arrival by choosing classes, emailing their SCA American Buddies, and connecting with their host families.
Host families are a vital part of our international program and a unique way to share the love of Christ. We often call hosting a “reverse Great Commission”— instead of going to the nations, the nations come to you. By simply opening your home, you can make a lasting impact for the Kingdom.
Each host family receives a handbook, orientation, and 24/7 support throughout the school year. Most students come with a monthly stipend of $865 to help cover living expenses. Students are also responsible for their own spending money, including activities, outings with friends, school sports, and personal items.
So far, five of our nine international students have been placed in homes—praise God! We are now prayerfully looking for host families for the remaining
four students. Their parents are eager to know where their children will be staying, and the students are excited to meet their new families!
If you feel God nudging your heart toward this ministry, we encourage you to pray about becoming a host family. Hosting is a powerful way to share Jesus, learn about another culture, and build meaningful, lifelong connections.
If you’re interested in learning more or would like to apply to host, please contact Rocco DeFelice, SCA’s International Program Director, at rdefelice@sca-kc.org.
Hannah Ho visits the Osceola Cheese Shop with the Gregg family.
Joe Huang celebrates his birthday with the Strader family.
The Schmidt family welcomes Kevin Chen upon arrival in Kansas City.
This & That 2025 Teacher of the Year
SCA named secondary Bible teacher Dr. Steven Scheperle as the SCA 2025 Teacher of the Year during a school-wide assembly. 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 sixth grade teacher Erin Cook, secondary Spanish teacher Laura Hoelzel, early education teacher Meagan Ingold, secondary English teacher Patrick Love, secondary Bible teacher Steven Scheperle, and kindergarten teacher Katelyn Wilfong.
“I was honored and excited to announce Dr. Steven Scheperle as the 2025 SCA Educator of the Year,” shared SCA Head of School Chris Hahn. “I consider Dr. Scheperle a gifted teacher, a Godly man of prayer, an encourager, mentor and friend. He has the consistent ability and ministry of presence that encourages all within the Summit Christian Academy community in daily words and actions.”
Dr. Scheperle has a Ph.D. in Religious Studies from the University of Iowa, a Master of Arts in Theology from GordonConwell Theological Seminary, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biblical Studies from Evangel University. He joined the SCA team in 2021.
Dr. Scheperle was awarded with a plaque, an SCA designated parking space, and a monetary award. As SCA’s Teacher of the Year, he 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 2026.
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.
Secondary Bible teacher, Dr. Steve Scheperle, was awarded as SCA’s 2025 Teacher of the Year.
2025 Teacher of the Year finalists (L-R): Mrs. Erin Cook, Mrs. Laura Hoelzel, Mrs. Meagan Ingold, Mr. Patrick Love, representing Dr. Steve Scheperle was his wife Mindy and children Sam and Sydney, Mrs. Katelyn Wilfong, pictured with SCA Head of School Chris Hahn (far right).
This & That Camp Eagle Summit is Soaring
Camp Eagle Summit and Camp Eagle Summit, Jr. are halfway through the summer!
Older campers have been enjoying whole and small group time, pool days, arts and crafts, lunches in the park, off-campus field trips,and special Chapel speakers.
Junior campers have been filling their days with outdoor play, circle and center time, special visitors, and water play. All campers participate in library and PE classes each week on campus.
The theme for Camp Eagle Summit this year is “Armor Up!” All campers are spending time together learning about the full armor of God and how to put it on. It’s going to be an action-packed summer!
“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.” Ephesians 6:10-11.
Aug 2-8
Aug 11
Aug 12
Aug 13
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
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 or 1 pm
Aug 18 Early Ed Open House & Popsicles 3-5 pm
Elementary Back to School Night 4-7 pm
Elementary Fall Sports Meeting 6 pm
Aug 19
Secondary Back to School Night 5:30-7 pm
Aug 20 First Day of School (EARLY RELEASE)
for K-12 and Early Ed 3- & 5-Day Classes
Aug 21 First Day of School for Early Ed 2-Day Classes
Aug 26 Secondary & Early Ed School Picture Day
Aug 27
Elementary & Early Ed School Picture Day
6th-8th Fall Sports Pictures
Aug 28 Early Ed PIE Night 5:30 pm
Aug 29 Blue Crew Day
Sept 1 NO SCHOOL (Labor Day)
Sept 2 Senior Mission Chapel 10:30 am
Sept 5 First Friday 8:30 am
Sept 8 Early Ed Morning with Mom 7:45 am Magnificent Moms 8:15 am
Sept 12 NO SCHOOL (Professional Development)
Sept 15 Early Ed Donuts with Dad 7:45 am
Sept 19 K-6 Morning with Mom 7:45 am
Sept 24 See You at the Pole
Oct 3 First Friday 8:30 am
Oct 6-10 Spirit Week
Oct 10 NO SCHOOL (Teacher Work Day) Homecoming Parade and Game
