Winter 2020-21 SOARING Newsletter

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

Sum mit

Christian Academy 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 Linda Harrelson, Head of School Joe Hesman, Secondary Principal & Director of Operations Anthony Mickelson, Secondary Assistant Principal Kimberlee Gill, Academic Dean Charissa Sanders, Elem. Principal Julie Madsen, Assistant Principal Lance Quessenberry, A.D. Kathy Tharp, International Program Director Sarah Coats, Dir. of Development Cordell Dick, Dir. of Major Gifts

Like us on

www.summit-christian-academy.org

Inside Soaring: Spiritual

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Academics

3- 4

Athletics

5-8

Fine Arts

9

International

10

Health Office Notes

11

This & That

11-13

Cordell’s Corner

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Upcoming Events

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Legacy

by Head of School Linda Harrelson

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s many of you probably know by now, I announced in October that I would be retiring my position as Head of School from Summit Christian Academy. As I enter my final “semester” after 22 years at the helm, I cannot help but think about legacy. Probably the best definition I’ve seen is from John Maxwell’s book, Good Leaders Ask Great Questions.

He says, “A legacy is created only when leaders put their people into a position to do great things without them.

The legacy of successful leaders lives on through the people they touch along the way.”

That quote holds true of our founders who dreamed of a Christian school. Their dream seemed impossible yet has become a reality years after their time here, and their fingerprints are still visible in our core values and mission. This quote also holds true to those leaders developed here who went on to lead and serve Christian schools. The SCA DNA is spread across our country through their leadership.

An outstanding example of Maxwell’s definition is Dr. Paul Kienel, the founder

WINTER 2020

“A legacy is created only when leaders put their people into a position to do great things without them. The legacy of successful leaders lives on through the people they touch along the way.”

John Maxwell and first president of ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International).

Dr. Kienel passed away unexpectedly in December. I had the privilege of knowing him through my service on the ACSI board. He held a standing position as President Emeritis.

Dr. Kienel reminded me of our first administrator, Mr. Jim Pirie. He was quiet, yet wise. He didn’t say much in board meetings, but when he did, it was gold. In oneon-one conversations, he was an encourager. His dry sense of humor and quick wit became a challenge for me as we sparred back and forth teasing one another.

He loved that! He had a way of making you feel special. I always came away blessed.

Dr. Kienel was humble.

You would never know he authored many books and spent time with four presidents in the White House. Quietly, he catapulted Christian education to higher levels across our country and throughout the world.

Today, ACSI serves thousands of Christian schools in more than 75 countries around the world.

Christian education lost a giant, but his legacy will live on.

SCA Head of School with Dr. Paul Kienel.

I know God has already selected SCA’s next leader.

I continue to pray for our board and the search committee. I pray that God will reveal His plan for our school and that our new leader will continue the SCA legacy. The impact of our school - of Christian education - is life changing and effective. It ripples out to so many as we train the next generation for Christ.

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Spiritual

Students Collect Food to Provide Thanksgiving Meals for Local Families Through the annual SCA Thanksgiving Food Drive, SCA elementary students united to donate over 5,000 food items to bless Kansas City families with a Thanksgiving meal. The items — including canned fruit, canned veggies, boxed foods, and paper goods — were enough to pack 300 boxes.

One of SCA’s Core Values is to Cultivate Community, and the food drive helps students understand the importance of serving, generosity, and helping their local and global community. SCA joined forces with outreach endeavors at Courageous Life Church in Independence, Heart-N-Hand Ministries in Belton, and Victory in His Presents in Kansas City.

SCA sixth grade students packed the food items into boxes, loaded them onto trucks, and sent them off to be shared with families in the Kansas City area.

SCA sixth grade student Paris Newton helps pack boxes for the 2020 SCA Food Drive. Over 5,000 food items were collected to help feed 300 Kansas City families last Thanksgiving.

Elementary Christian Char acter Recipients 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 SCA’s Christian Character Award is one of the most prestigious recognitions within the school.

The elementary school’s Christian Character Award recipients for the first quarter are second grade student Titus Obremski, son of Scott and Jennifer Obremski, Second grade student Titus Obremski, Fifth grade student Junius Yancik, and fifth grade student Junius Yancik, son of pictured with Elementary Principal pictured with SCA Elementary Tara Yancik. The students were recognized in Charissa Sanders, received an Principal Charissa Sanders, received an a virtual ceremony. elementary Christian Character Award elementary Christian Character Award for first quarter.

for first quarter.

SCA Core Value Encour aging Spiritual Growth We desire that each student know Christ personally and grow in His grace and knowledge, so he/she may impact their world for Him. We understand the importance of godly staff and faculty who model the Christian walk and mentor students to pursue their personal relationship with the Lord.

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Academics

Speech & Debate Team Adapts to Online MSHSA A Competitions Different. That word describes what the SCA Speech and Debate team had to face after MSHSAA mandated that all competitions would take place online. So, instead of traveling to a neighboring school to compete in person, we began recording and submitting speech presentations online, or logging in to an online conference call to participate in a debate. Challenges come as the team has had to make sure their speech recordings meet proper requirements for play back on the host school’s media platform, and that their WiFi signal is strong enough to maintain contact with their competition and judge for debate rounds. Online competition allowed the team to challenge schools from all over the United States and overseas.

The team continues to face off with schools from all size classifications.

Our students also continue their commitment to their craft, and to see the results that come from their hard work.

Each of SCA’s nine team members

took part in up to • five of the eight online tournaments on the first semester schedule. The team earned awards from each tournament; ten speech entries reached finals and eight debate entries competed in Debate Team Members Senior Maycee Nicholson and Junior elimination rounds.

Zach Akeson prepare for online competitions with Debate Coach The top results from Mark Harris. team members were: • Briana Chapman (Jr) – 9th • Maycee Nicholson (Sr) – 3rd Championship Division of LincolnOriginal Oration, and 2nd Open Douglas Debate Division of Lincoln-Douglas Debate • Nate Barlett (Jr) – 6th Student • Zach Akeson – 2nd International Congress, and 4th with Isaac Extemporaneous Speaking Truesdale (Fr) Open Division of • Ryan Wagy (Sr) with Austin Wilson Public Forum Debate (Sr) – 1st Championship Division of • Kaitlyn Gregg (Jr) – 5th Informative Policy Debate Speaking The team’s results show the truth • Kandace Gill (Jr) – 4th of what was written in Proverbs 25:11, Championship Division of Lincoln“A word fitly spoken is like apples of Douglas Debate gold in a setting of silver.”

• Zach Akeson (Jr) with Kaitlyn Gregg – 4th Championship Division of Public Forum Debate

SCA Enters National Speech and Debate Association 100 Club

Speech and Debate teacher Mark Harris and his Competitive Speech and Debate class display the school’s 100 Club certificate. L-R (Front row): Senior Austin Wilson, Junior Briana Chapman, Senior and President of the Debate Club Ryan Wagy, Junior Kandace Gill, and Freshman Isaac Truesdale. (Back row): Junior Kaitlyn Gregg, Junior Zach Akeson, Speech and Debate teacher Mark Harris, and Senior Maycee Nicholson. Not pictured Junior Nate Bartlett.

SCA is pleased to announce that our chapter of the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA) competitive and honor society has earned the distinction of entering the “100 Club.”

NSDA Club awards are earned by schools who demonstrate outstanding commitment to teaching students skills, including communication, research, listening, writing, and organization, for achieving degrees in the NSDA Honor Society. The “100 Club” recognizes a school that has a strength of over 100 points, and places SCA in the top 20% of all NSDA member schools.

“I am proud of the hard work and dedication of our students to be able to make this happen,” shared Speech and Debate teacher Mark Harris. “They don't hesitate to set goals and don't back away from expectations.”

SCA became a member of the NSDA in 2007.

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Academics

SCA Recognizes Spelling Bee Winners SCA recently held their annual spelling bee with a total of 44 students in second - eighth grades participating.

Three students emerged victorious: first place went to eighth grade student Abigail Shanahan, second place went to fifth grade student Leo Butler, and third place went to second grade student Joey Soule.

Due to COVID-19, the district and regional spelling bees for top spellers have been cancelled.

Spelling bee winners (L-R): Eighth grade student Abigail Shanahan (first place), fifth grade student Leo Butler (second place), and second grade student Joey Soule (third place).

SCA Students Experience Hands-On Voting Education SCA elementary students learned firsthand about the entire voting and election process. Kindergarten through sixth grade students registered to vote, and on Monday, November 2, headed to the polls to cast their ballot for their favorite themed dress day to take place

on November 17. Each student participated in registration, voter identification, voting, and delivery to the ballot box.

The polling booth was organized and led by SCA’s Student Environment of Arduous Study (STEWARDS) third through sixth grade students, who spent much time in advance learning and preparing for the civic process event. The STEWARDS class provided nominations for the ballot and voted on the final ballot to be proposed to the student body.

Students stayed after school to prepare election flyers and film a TV ad to inform voters about the ballots.

STEWARDS students were each assigned stations to work as an “election official” and each class had a scheduled time to visit the polls and

cast their ballots. Absentee ballots were even created so students who were away from school traveling, in quarantine, or weren’t able to vote in person could cast their vote! Ballots were recorded, placed in the box, and tallied.

The final result was a total of 341 ballots cast and tallied, and the popular vote (174 votes) declared November 17 “Pajama Day.” STEWARDS is an SCA program for students who demonstrate academic giftedness to the extent that continued educational growth and stimulation can best be served by environment beyond typical gradelevel curriculum.

The SCA STEWARDS class led the elementary school in voting registration, voter identification, voting, and delivery, providing hands-on learning for their fellow elementary students. SCA first grade student Burke Sanko shows a sample ballot and voting booth.

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Athletics

Looking Back With Thankfulness

by Lance Quessenberry, Athletic Director

Like most everyone, I find myself looking back at the past year with thankfulness for God’s guidance and direction through all the up and downs.

2020 was like no other year and was Lance Quessenberry especially hard on athletic programs across the nation. Some programs shut down completely and athletes lost the opportunity to participate at all different levels.

For SCA, our fall programs faced uncertainty each week and the possibility of opponents cancelling existed at every moment. It was a mental strain on everyone involved.

One quote summed up what our coaches and athletes experienced this fall, “We are facing two opponents every time we schedule a competition: the actual opponent and COVID.” The virus did take some opportunities from our teams, but in the end, we were able to reschedule or replace many of those cancelled competitions.

Along those lines, I’d like to share the actual statistics from the fall semester for our originally scheduled high school and junior high competitions…

• Total number of scheduled competitions: 252 • Total number of competitions played: 217 • Percentage of competitions completed: 86%

Of the 252 scheduled competitions, 131 were varsity competitions. Of that 131 varsity competitions, 115 were completed. Of the sixteen varsity competitions that were cancelled, we were able to find different opponents to fill eight of those cancelled dates.

Also, since the start of fall, 25 junior high and high school teams have represented SCA in competition. Of those 25 teams, three have had to be quarantined. Of the 35 competitions cancelled, 16 came from those three teams during their quarantine period. The remaining 19 cancelled competitions were due to our scheduled opponent being quarantined.

With all the information flying around, this will hopefully help everyone know how things went for SCA Athletics this fall semester. We feel very blessed to have been able to give our athletes the opportunity to participate in athletics and have some amazing stories of how God worked in so many seemingly impossible situations. Along with God’s direction and miracle working power, some amazing coaches, players, parents, maintenance workers, game workers, administrators, and board members made all of this happen. Our Athletic Department is forever grateful for all of you and your help. Thank you for all you have done in the fall of 2020 — it was a period of time we will not soon forget.

Varsity Girls’ Golf has Record Season at State Tournament

by Gary Breshears, Varsity Head Girls’ Golf Coach

Varsity Girls’ Golf represented well throughout the season as at least one athlete earned a medal in every tournament in which they participated.

In three tournaments, multiple athletes medaled for the team. Postseason began with a sixth place finish at the district tournament where 15 schools competed. All players showed nice progress during the season and improved significantly from last year.

Junior Lilli Stallings had an outstanding year for SCA. She was a medalist in every tournament throughout the season. At the district tournament, she finished in fourth place which qualified her for the Class 1 State Tournament for the second year in a row. The tournament was held at Paradise Point Golf Course in Smithville on October 19 & 20. She completed round one in 1st place and held a one-shot lead going into the next round on the second day. After a difficult second round, she finished in 3rd place, which is the best finish by any golfer in school history.

The team is young with no seniors graduating this year. Next season Junior Lilli Stallings competed in the Class 1 State holds a lot of promise for the girls, and they look forward to more success Golf tournament where she placed third. This is the highest finish for any SCA golfer. on the course.

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Athletics

Cross-Country Team Makes History at Class 2 State Tournament

by Rick McGregor, Varsity Head Cross-Country Coach

Cross-Country finished the season strong with the boys’ and girls’ teams making it to the Class 2 State tournament for the first time in SCA history. They also made history earlier in the month when both teams won their district meet.

Varsity Boys finished ninth in Class 2 competition. They had a strong team with great leadership coming from the two captains, Seniors Jacob Dean and Cade Zucca. Their leadership and encouragement greatly influenced the rest of the team to push for strong finishes. The boys’ top finisher was Caleb Benton who placed seventh at State. He had set fast times all year but was set back slightly after a bout with COVID. When he returned, he posted his best performance at the Class 2 State tournament in Columbia.

Varsity Girls also had a really great team and finished the year strong.

Varsity Girls’ Cross-Country placed fifth in Class 2 State with sophomore Adriana McGregor receiving All-State honors. Pictured L-R: Karinton Newton, Mia Murkin, Lauren McCoy, Adriana McGregor, Katie Coats, Elise Welch, Georgia Baxter, and Mara Reasoner.

Several girls were injured for most of the season and the team never really competed at full strength throughout the regular season. However, in districts and state, everyone was healthy. They finished first at

Varsity Boys’ Cross-Country placed ninth in Class 2 State with freshman Caleb Benton receiving All-State honors. Pictured L-R: Ryder Thompson, Jake Dean, Cade Zucca, Isaiah McGregor, Caleb Benton, and Luke Stienstra.

districts and 5th at the Class 2 State tournament in Columbia. The girls’ top finisher was Adriana McGregor who placed eleventh. The program is looking forward to next year as the girls’ team didn’t graduate any seniors.

The full team will return next year and should compete stronger than ever.

I am thankful we were able to compete this year! It was a crazy time with mask restrictions and quarantining. During the craziness, our team often focused on Ephesians 5:16 to “make the most of every opportunity...” It was amazing to watch these young men and ladies press on through their season even though the world around them was very unstable.

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Athletics

Senior Signs with Louisiana State University on National Signing Day SCA is pleased to announce that Senior Aleah Finnegan recently participated in National Signing Day by signing her letter of intent to compete in gymnastics for the Louisiana State University Tigers.

Aleah—a member of the United States’ women’s national gymnastics team and part of the team that won gold at the 2019 Pan American Games—trains at GAGE Center under internationally recognized Al Fong and 2007 World Team Assistant Coach Armine Barutyan-Fong. She is known as one of the USA’s top up-and-comers.

“Going to LSU means absolutely everything to me,” shared Aleah. “I verbally committed in the summer after eighth grade because I knew from the start that this was where I wanted to be. This school is everything I could have hoped for from education to athletics and so much more, I am so excited to finally be able to be a part of it. It feels like a dream come true to have all of my hard work pay off.

Although I have some work to finish in my elite gymnastics career, I cannot wait to see what my college career will

bring me. I have not officially decided on a degree yet but I’m looking into marketing/business!”

Senior Aleah Finnegan, pictured here with her mother Linabelle Finnegan and GAGE Center gymnastics coaches Armine Farutyan-Fong and Al Fong, participated in the National Signing Day with Louisiana State University.

SCA Wrestlers Gain Valuable Experience and is among the team leaders in several categories.

Memphis Hinton (SO, 126lbs) placed third at the Truman Invitational and leads the team in spladles. Gabe Harris leads the team in many Varsity wrestlers celebrate after the Truman Invitational. Pictured L-R: Coach Greg Thomas, Memphis Hinton, Isaiah Nieto, Coach categories and has Stephan Gordon, Jeramiah Smith, and Coach Andrew Smith. the highest win record on the team at 8-1. He recently

by Greg Thomas, Head Wrestling Coach dominated the field to earn a gold Varsity Wrestling is small, as of medal at the Diamond Invitational. now, but growing quickly into a very Dakota Cobb has been on a tear with competitive team. Several athletes a 6-1 win record, and he is second on have already earned hard-fought the team in several categories. He also medals at tournaments. Jeramiah Smith (SO, 160lbs) leads the way with dominated the field to earn gold at the Diamond Invitational. a second place finish at the Truman SCA Wrestling has also continued Invitational and leads the team in at the elementary level this year with takedowns. Grant Self (SO, 138lbs) the Agape Wrestling Club. Their group took third at the Lone Jack Duals

is off to a great start!

We look forward to more athletes joining us next year. They will be glad they did as we look for more people like David or Gideon! For more information, email Coach Greg Thomas at coachttd@yahoo.com.

Secondary students Dakota Cobb and Gabe Harris assist with the Agape Wrestling Club.

Also pictured are Coach Stephan Gordon (left), Kenzo Chang (center), and Coach Greg Thomas (right).

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Athletics

Boys’ Basketball Focuses One Day at a Time

by Brady Hammond, Varsity Head Boys’ Basketball Coach

Varsity Boys’ Basketball is off to a solid 2020-21 start. The team has had to navigate several unique challenges, including a new head coach, a few COVID-related setbacks, and most of our team missing almost a month of practice with the exciting (yet lengthy) football season. Despite these challenges, our guys have done a great job focusing, learning, and playing for each other. Thus far, our efforts have resulted in a 9-2 record, a state

Varsity Head Coach Brady Hammond awards senior Jared Gerdes with a basketball marking the 1,000th point in his high school career.

ranking that is currently fifth in the latest MBCA Class 3 poll, and winning the Eagle Invitational championship.

We are pleased with what we have accomplished Varsity Boys’ Basketball celebrates a first place finish in the 11th Annual Eagle Invitational Tournament! so far but We need to focus on winning each are still pursuing bigger goals. We have two tournaments at Pleasant Hill game, quarter, practice, and even drill that’s in front of us and not look past and Richmond in which we hope to any one team, task, or challenge. compete for titles during the month More importantly, we want to of January. Moving into February, we achieve our purpose every day, which hope to compete for the Crossroads is to “create a family atmosphere Conference title and then make where we build each other up to be some postseason noise in the district champions for Christ.” I’m confident tournament and beyond.

With all the possible excitement to that if we consistently achieve that purpose, we’ll be able to achieve all come, we can be tempted to be too focused on the future. In the end, our God has for us in the days, weeks, and months ahead. main goal is to simply “win the day.”

Varsity Girls’ Basketball Starts Strong Season

by Chad Friess, Varsity Girls’ Basketball Head Coach

As we roll into 2021, we have so much to be grateful for as a school and as a basketball program. Our season started back in April 2020 as players and coaches gathered on weekly ZOOM calls for virtual workouts! We were then fortunate enough to move into full practices in June and July and had a great core of ladies who came out to work hard and get better. With the start of the official season in November, we returned only two players from last season's

Varsity Girls’ Basketball started strong season, despite a young roster.

district runner-up team. However, this year’s team has a lot of potential and excitement as we look to the future. They have worked hard to build on their preseason efforts and have had a great start to the season.

Our current mission is simple, but effective: get better today. We are working hard to focus on the process and not the result. While we are working to earn a victory in every game, our purpose is to make sure we are intentional with the process every day. I believe we have a young group that has done an excellent job to buy into that mentality.

The Varsity team has 11 young ladies who push hard every day to represent themselves, their families, their school, and most importantly, their King in a way that brings honor and glory. I love the fight this team possesses.

We know the hard work we have been putting in is only useful and helpful if we make it habitual every time we step on the court. I am excited for the direction this program is headed and believe in our team! The best is yet to come!

Go Eagles!

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Fine Arts

Freshman Gr and Prize Winner of Poetry Contest SCA is pleased to announce that freshman Elise Welch won the 2020 Young Authors Showcase (Poetry) Grand Prize Winner for her work titled, “If You Cannot Stand.”

The Sister City Association of Kansas City (SCAKC) invited Kansas City students to enter the 2020 Young Artist and Authors Showcase Competition. The 2020 theme was “One World: Out of Many, We are One.” The Showcase gives youth worldwide the opportunity to express their vision for a more unified, peaceful world through original artwork and literature.

Elise’s poem, “If You Cannot Stand,” was the grand prize poetry winner and she received $1,000.

SCA Freshman Elise Welch was the Grand Prize winner for the 2020 YAAS Poetry Competition.

Senior Selected for Prestigious KC Youth Symphony SCA is pleased to announce that senior Benjamin Schwab was selected to play cello in the Kansas City Youth Symphony’s top orchestra–the Symphony Orchestra.

Ben submitted a video audition for the KC Youth Symphony and was one of 19 cellos to be named to the Symphony Orchestra. Due to auditions being fully virtual, the orchestra did not establish seating auditions.

Over 120 schools from the KC metropolitan area and outlying communities are represented at the Kansas City Youth Symphony. During Ben’s freshman year, he was SCA’s first ever student participant on the Kansas City Youth Symphony.

SCA Senior Benjamin Schwab was selected to play cello in the Kansas City Youth Symphony’s top orchestra- the Symphony Orchestra.

The Show Must Go On! The SCA Performing Arts Department has indeed lived this mantra to its fullest this school year! You should feel proud of your students, teachers, maintenance staff, and administrators as they managed to strategically and safely perform multiple events. There was so much going on behind the scenes to make these events happen, it could have been turned into a reality program!

At the elementary level, first graders performed a wonderful “Thanksgiving Program” which featured singing and playing barred instruments and of course, moving with the now infamous “Turkey in the Straw” dance. In December, third grade students presented a variation of their “normal” Christmas program by adding an impressive “scarf dance” to the Chinese Dance from “The Nutcracker.” Due to the small number of students on stage, this is something that could never be done before. The kids loved it and their teachers and “audience” did too!

Fifth grade students are currently in rehearsals for their upcoming February 26 “Fifth Grade Performances,” happening on the same day as the elementary band and strings concert! Lord willing, this will be a live event, but if not, we are becoming pros at virtual presentations!

Third grade students in Mrs. Tschida’s class perform in “The Nutcracker.”

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International

International Department Publishes Webinar SCA International Program Director Kathy Tharp and SCA Student Intern Senior Mackenzie Madsen were honored to record a webinar for the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) on Developing International Student Relationships Through a Buddy Program.

Mrs. Tharp had previously been invited by Dr. Erin Wilcox of ACSI to do an International Student Program endorsement, during which Dr. Wilcox learned of SCA’s Buddy Program. This initiated the request for SCA to create the interview-type webinar that is now offered through ACSI’s International Student Program Service.

SCA’s International Program and Buddy Program have several unique aspects including a Buddy Coordinator and Intern, Language Cadets, and offering a Seal of Biliteracy for both American and International students.

SCA International Director Kathy Tharp (right) and SCA Student Intern “It was an honor for SCA to share specifics about our Senior Mackenzie Madsen (left) recently recorded a webinar for ACSI program to encourage other schools around the country,” on Developing International Student Relationships Through a Buddy shared SCA International Program Director Kathy Tharp. Program.

SCA is currently in their tenth year of offering an International Program and hosts eight International Students from countries including England, Peru, China, and South Korea.

SCA Celebr ates International Education Week

SCA Seniors Franklin and Tony Zhang are international students taking SCA’s eCampus model from their home town of Fuzhou, China. Franklin and Tony created video footage of their community to share with elementary and secondary students for SCA’s International Education Week.

SCA recently celebrated the ninth annual International Education Week (IEW), part of SCA’s commitment to building a global community throughout the school. During IEW, K-12 students engage in educational opportunities including games, presentations, and cuisine from across the globe.

This year, SCA’s eight international students from England, Peru, China, and South Korea, along with students in SCA’s World Language classes, shared various countries and cultures with fellow students by creating and sharing videos. Videos were shown in elementary and secondary classes throughout the week and included regional games, cooking classes, and real footage from SCA students living in Fazhou, China.

Take the Step and Host an International Student International students are currently applying for the 2021-22 school year and will need a loving home. Are you the family who will open your heart and home to a student?

As a host family, you provide room and board and invite the student to become part of your family. You share your everyday life (no matter how crazy) with the student and help them adjust to the American lifestyle, culture, and language. Consider this ministry and the opportunity to share God's love right in your own home, impacting a student for eternity.

For further information, contact International Program Director Kathy Tharp at ktharp@sca-kc.org or call 816-522-0527.

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This & That

Health Office Notes The SCA Health Office loves YOU and YOUR kids! Because your child’s health is important to us, we want to equip you the best we can. 3 John 2 says, “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers.”

We are entering the time of year when we see influenza (flu) and other respiratory viruses at school.

We want to let you know that we are taking steps to keep our school community healthy and there are ways you can help.

Respiratory infections such as the Influenza, COVID-19, and common colds (colds) are spread when people come in close contact with sick people and inhale airborne droplets, or come in contact with contaminated surfaces. Influenza and colds/COVID-19 symptoms can sometimes be difficult to tell apart. The only way to know is to have your doctor test you/your child.

Reasons to seek care from a medical professional: 1. Symptoms persist 2. If you/your child has a new cough, difficulty breathing, or loss of taste or smell 3. If you or your child have 2 or more of the following: fever, congestion, runny nose, nausea/vomiting/ diarrhea, sore throat, headache, muscle or body aches.

We take the health of our students seriously and work very hard to keep these viruses from spreading. We regularly clean frequently touched areas such as door knobs, stair rails, telephones, computer keyboards, and bathroom faucets and fixtures. Recommendations for prevention from SCA: 1. Get in the Word of God daily. “My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words.

Do not let them out of your sight, keep them within your heart; for they are life to those who find them and health or medicine to one’s whole body” (Proverbs 4:20-22).

2. Pray about getting the flu or COVID-19 vaccine and follow the leading of the Holy Spirit.

Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations: 1. Take everyday preventative actions to stop the spread of germs: • Wash hands often with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.

• Cover coughs with a disposable tissue or cough into your sleeve.

• Avoid touching eyes, nose, mouth or mask.

• Avoid close contact with sick individuals.

• Avoid sharing cups and eating utensils.

• Stay home when sick.

• Wash/change mask daily and sooner if wet or soiled.

You can help us maintain a healthy school environment in a variety of ways: • Reinforce all of the above preventive behaviors practiced at school, • Make sure children get plenty of exercise, sleep, and healthy food, and • Keep sick children home, especially if they have a fever above 100oF, diarrhea, vomiting, or a NEW cough. Our school policy is fever-free, no diarrhea, and no vomiting for 24 hours without medication.

A couple additional important points: • Notify your child’s healthcare provider if your child develops difficulty breathing or a new onset of wheezing; and • If your child has asthma, please make sure we have a copy of your child’s Asthma Action Plan.

“You must serve only the LORD your God. If you do, I will bless you with food and water, and I will protect you from illness” (Exodus 23:25).

Your SCA Nursing Staff Sheri Dean, RN BSN Noelle, Rhyne, RN, BSN Erin Rider, RN, MSN, CPN Tiffany Summit, MEd

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This & That

SCA Moves Up in R ankings as One of the Top Five Private Schools in the K ansas City Area SCA is pleased to announce that they have been ranked fourth in the Kansas City Metro area private schools list by the Kansas City Business Journal, up one spot from last year when they were ranked fifth.

This is the seventh consecutive year that SCA has been ranked Summit Christian Academy has been ranked fourth in the Kansas City Business Journal’s list of Top Area Private as a top five private Schools. This is SCA’s seventh consecutive year to be ranked in the top five. school in the Kansas including, student-to-teacher ratio, have started our school year on time City Metropolitan area. tuition, and academic curriculum. and on campus. The importance of inThe Kansas City Business Journal’s “It is an honor to be named a person learning, friends, and athletics annual compilation of private schools, Top 5 Private School for the seventh cannot be overstressed, and we are The List, determines school rankings consecutive year,” shared Head of blessed to be able to provide them.” based on fall enrollment figures School Linda Harrelson. “During this submitted from each institution.

Various other characteristics are noted most difficult year, we are pleased to

Board of Education Report The Board of Education met Thursday, November 19. Pleasant Hill Mayor and the Board of Education recognized two football players for their acts of compassion and kindness to the Pleasant Hill quarterback at the end of a game SCA won.

Board Vice President John Kliewer presented a devotion on SCA’s Vision – Summit Christian Academy is the school of choice for Christian families whose priority is excellence.

Mrs. Harrelson reviewed the October financial reports that show the school is on budget. The annual audit is now under

review with Troutt-Beeman.

The Board will receive the audit report at the next meeting.

Mrs. Harrelson commented on Mr. Hesman’s Director of Operations report on the school’s COVID-19 cases. We have a metric that guides whether we need to consider shutting down. The number of COVID-19 cases we have had is nowhere near the number that would indicate we need to shut down. We are grateful that our safety measures are being adhered to and for the Lord’s hand of protection as well.

Mrs. Harrelson reviewed

her eCampus report. She has talked a lot internally and to ACSI about the trends they are seeing across the country. The consensus of the Board is that in-person classes are most definitely the best for most children. The vast majority of teachers and parents agree that in-person learning is best as well.

The Board approved a 5% increase on tuition for the 2021-22 school year.

The Board discussed the open pastor position and determined to invite SCA parent pastors if they might have an interest in serving in this important position on the Board.

The Board approved a change to the SCA By-Laws that clarifies the appointed positions on the Board.

Mrs. Harrelson reviewed her report on SCA policies that are due for review.

The Board of Education Policies (Section 1) have been reviewed. Minor changes were made to four policies to bring them into compliance with best practice and the way the school is operating.

Soaring

Page 13

This & That

Cordell’s Corner: SCA Upholds Ethical Standards of the Development Profession I have been a member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) for over 30 years. This international organization sets standards of ethical practice for its 33,000 members. AFP believes that ethical behavior fosters the development and growth of both fundraising professionals and the fundraising profession and it also enhances philanthropy and volunteerism. I heartily agree.

Every AFP member agrees to abide by the AFP standards.

At SCA, we take this mandate seriously and aspire to incorporate these standards in all of SCA’s development endeavors.

So what are these AFP Code of Ethical standards? I am providing the first section relating to public trust, transparency, and conflicts of interest. I will present the remaining standards in the future.

Members shall: • not engage in activities that harm the members’ organizations, clients, or profession or knowingly bring the profession into disrepute.

• not engage in activities that conflict with their fiduciary, ethical and legal obligations to their organizations, clients or profession.

• effectively disclose all potential and actual conflicts of interest; such disclosure does not preclude or imply ethical impropriety.

• not exploit any relationship with a donor, prospect, volunteer, client or employee for the benefit of the members or the members’ organizations.

• comply with all applicable local, state, provincial and federal civil and criminal laws.

• recognize their individual boundaries of professional competence.

• present and supply products and/or services honestly and without misrepresentation.

• establish the nature and Cordell Dick purpose of any contractual Director of Major Gifts relationship at the outset and be responsive and available to parties before, during and after any sale of materials and/or services.

• never knowingly infringe the intellectual property rights of other parties.

• protect the confidentiality of all privileged information relating to the provider/client relationships.

• never disparage competitors untruthfully.

We are committed to abide by these standards.

Inquiries or questions about any of them related to SCA’s fundraising activities are welcomed. To learn more about supporting SCA or if you have questions about making a gift to Summit Christian Academy, please give me a call at 818.525.1480 or email me at cordelld@sca-kc.org.

Solemn Assembly Parent Partnership All SCA parents, grandparents, guardians, staff, faculty, pastors, and friends are invited to the 2021 Solemn Assembly Parents Night featuring Russ Tuttle, President & Founder of the Stop Trafficking Project!

This high-impact presentation will educate, empower, and guide parents from awareness to action as we fight against Domestic Minor Sex Trafficking. Mr. Tuttle will unpack the role of social media, discuss apps to be aware of, and provide practical help that can be applied to minors' vulnerability online.

Space is limited!

Adults only.

SUMMIT CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 1500 SW Jefferson Lee’s Summit MO 64081

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 Jan 28

Solemn Assembly Parent Partnership Night 6:30 p.m.

Mar 2

ACSI Math Competition

Jan 29

Solemn Assembly

Mar 3

Jr/Sr Service Day

Feb 1-5

Spirit Week

Switch Up Day

Feb 2

Elementary Talent Show 7 p.m.

Mar 5

IMPROV 7 p.m.

Feb 5

Secondary Pep Rally 2:10 p.m.

Mar 9

Elem & EE Spring Pictures

Feb 8

Open Enrollment Begins

Mar 10

JH/SH/EE Spring Pictures

Feb 11

K-12 eCampus Day

Mar 5-11

Book Fair

Early Ed Only-No School (P/T Conferences)

Mar 11

Elementary D.E.A.R. Day

Simply Threads Spirit Event 10 a.m.-7 p.m.

Mar 12

K-12 eCampus Day

Feb 12

NO SCHOOL EE-12 (P/T Conferences)

Early Education (In Session)

Feb 15

NO SCHOOL (Presidents Day)

Mar 15-22 SPRING BREAK

Feb 16

Choir Concert

Mar 23

Secondary Blue Crew Day

Feb 17

Secondary Blue Crew Day

Mar 24

SAT Testing

International Experience 3-5 p.m.

Mar 26

K-6 Campus Visit Day 1-3 p.m.

Feb 19

Campus Visit Day 1-3 p.m.

Apr 2-5

NO SCHOOL (Easter Break)

Feb 26

5th Grade Production

Apr 9

Science Fair

Elementary Musical Concert

Apr 23

Campus Visit Day 1-3 p.m.