VCS | the Village Voice | Fall/Winter 2023

Fall/Winter 2023

The Magazine of Village Christan School

COMMITMENT TO SERVICE Reimagining VCServes

FRUIT FROM THE FIELDS VCS Lifers Andy Rotunno ('98) and Jesse Correll ('06) Feed the Hungry

A CUT ABOVE Senior Sasha Ovalle Shining in Multiple Facets

IN A CLASS OF THEIR OWN Dance Company Shines at Universal Studios

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS XC's Late-Season Heroics, Honors, and Show of Support

CARE FOR NARE Remembering Beloved Teacher and Administator

For years, the Village Voice was a hallmark of the VCS community.

Found within each issue of Village Christian School’s magazine are stories of God’s calling and people who are stepping into purpose and giftings.

For nearly 75 years, it’s that faithfulness that has propelled the VCS community into each new chapter. Sometimes it takes bravery. Sometimes it takes obedience.

Sometimes it simply takes love.

No matter the generation, every time, the results are special – and you’re about to see how.

If you have an idea for a story or person to be featured in the Village Voice, please email connect@villagechristian.org.

2

the Village Voice

SP IRITUAL LIFE FEATU RE

Commitment to Service

CONTENTS

6 ALU MNI FEATU RE | ROTU NN O ('9 8 ) AND C ORREL ('0 6 ) AT GLEANINGS

Fruit from the Fields 10 STU DENT FEATU RE | SASH A OVALLE

A Cut Above 16 COMMU NIT Y SP OTLIG HT

75 Years of God's Faithfulness 21 FINE ARTS FEATU RE | DANCE C OMPANY

In a Class of Their Own 22 ATHLE TICS FEATU RE | CROSS C OUNTRY

Strength in Numbers 26 ATHLE TICS U P DATE | FOOTBALL

Crusader Football Breaks Records 30 COMMU NIT Y SP OTLIG HT

32

25th Annual Golf Tournament TRIBU TE | TOM N ARE

Care from Nare 36 ALU MNI U P DATES

Crusaders for Life 42

the VILLAGE VOICE VCS Marketing Department Editor | Paul Putignano Graphic Designer | Fontaina Funk Events/Volunteers | Lesli Cates

Photographers / Contributors Matt Farias, Fontaina Funk, Peter Koo, Dennis Oliver, Paul Putignano, Sonja Rakicevic, Shelly Raub, Blanca Schnobrich

Special Thanks Melissa Cherella, Lindsay Gunn, Angela de Moura

Upcoming Events “THE EXPERIENCE” | JANUARY 16 - 19, 2024 We are so excited for the launch of a brand-new Concentrations® initiative, “The Experience.”

This week of immersive learning will take students to Costa Rica, Switzerland, New York, across California, and much more, giving them an intensive opportunity to dig into potential career paths and educational tracts. Some experiences may take students beyond the official January 16-19 timeframe.

SPARK SYMPOSIUM | FEBRUARY 21, 2024 Experience all six VCS Concentrations as students showcase their career-building projects in an open house-style event that is a hallmark of our signature high school academic program.

This year, Spark will feature learning gleaned from “The Experience.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. TRIP | MARCH 19 - 26, 2024 Fifth grade will make its annual trip to the east coast again this year, visiting Washington, D.C., Colonial Williamsburg, Jamestown, Gettysburg, the incredible monuments and museums in our nation’s capital, and an unforgettable visit to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

EASTER BREAK | MARCH 29 – APRIL 5, 2024 This year, Easter Break follows Good Friday and Easter Sunday, with school closing Friday, March 29 and reopening for classes on Monday, April 8.

“THE MARCH” | APRIL 17 - 22, 2024 “The March: Journey from Civil War to Civil Rights” is scheduled for April 17-21 with a recouperation day on Monday, April 22. Students will travel to Memphis, Tennessee; Birmingham, Alabama; Montgomery, Alabama; and Atlanta, Georgia, enjoying a riverboat ride on the Mississippi River, walk the Shiloh battlefield, and a host of sites that weave them through the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement.

2024 ANNUAL AUCTION AND GALA | APRIL 27, 2024 We can’t wait to gather once again for our largest fundraising event of the year – the Annual Auction and Gala. This year’s event will be held at Noor in Pasadena. Be on the lookout for more information. Tickets go on sale soon.

GRADUATIONS | MAY 23-25, 2024 We are looking forward to celebrating this year’s graduates right here on campus on the Field of Dreams. Elementary Culmination is Thursday, May 23, Middle School Graduation is slated for Friday, May 24, and High School Graduation will be held on Saturday, May 25.

4

the Village Voice

A N OT E F R O M T H E H E A D O F S C H O O L

As I think about the history of a school like Village Christian, there are ebbs and flows in measurements like enrollment, curricular emphasis, learning strategies, and achievements in extracurricular activities. We are currently experiencing a rising tide of enrollment and interest in our school. Much of this demand comes from our commitment to those things that never change – our school's utter reliance on God's grace, and our mission to share His love and values with our students, faculty, and families.

Amidst this growth, we are rejoicing in heightened student achievement, alumni pride, and general enthusiasm around campus. Our faculty and staff are rising to this occasion with innovative curriculum, advanced teaching strategies, and award-winning performance. The pages of this edition of the Village Voice are filled with stories of our students and faculty living out their God-given talents and purpose. We pray that you will enjoy learning more about the amazing people who make our Village community so rich and varied.

Finally, I thank God for each one of you who remains committed to helping our school advance and continue to make a difference in the lives of a new generation of students. Every hour you volunteer, every dollar you donate, and every prayer you raise on our behalf makes a real difference in the lives of the thousands of students who walk on this beautiful campus every day.

Tom Konjoyan | Head of School

Every hour you volunteer, every dollar you donate, and every prayer you raise on our behalf makes a real difference...

Fall/Winter 2023 | 5

Photo: Peter Koo

6

the Village Voice

S P I R IT UA L L I F E F E AT U R E

A MISSIONAL STAPLE OF VCS, VCSERVES IS BEING REIMAGINED FOR YEAR-LONG EMPHASIS In 2011, Village Christian launched its ambitious VCServes initiative aimed at producing far-reaching impact across the southland and within the hearts and minds of VCS students.

Then 2020 hit. Amidst unprecedented upheaval, many nonprofits changed service requirements and regulations essential to VCServes.

However, Village’s desire to foster hearts of service within its students did not.

Utilizing ongoing partnerships with familiar organizations and local churches, service-hour requirements, and increased involvement and coordination by VCS student leaders, VCServes has returned in a new way, and will continue to grow and expand in years to come.

Photo: Fontaina Funk

“VCServes was an integral part of our missional identity, and we didn’t want that to disappear,” said Head of School Tom Konjoyan. “Our new strategic integration of service within curriculum is more efficient logistically and remains consistent with our desire for an ongoing Biblical emphasis on helping those in need.”

Fall/Winter 2023 | 7

Throughout first semester, students have served at drive-thru food pantries, worked with MEND in Pacoima, and prepped food "paks" at and through Children’s Hunger Fund.

Some of these Middle and High School students have also served our youngest students on campus, where service continues to be woven into the fabric of Elementary.

They’ve also continued the Operation Christmas Child legacy initiated by Lisa Sullivan in 2008, and carried on Dressember and other movement-based initiatives – with even more opportunities in the works for 2024.

“From jobs in the classroom, to helping clean up the lunch area, to special projects and challenges, we want the students to develop a heart of service because we follow the example of Jesus, who came ‘not to be served, but to serve,’” said Elementary Assistant Principal Judy Mandl of the JK-through-fifth-graders.

“We encourage our students to have eyes open to the needs around them, and then to step in and meet those needs, whether that’s picking up a piece of trash that someone has dropped, opening the door for someone whose arms are full, or helping a younger student learn how to shoot a basket.”

“[The students have responded] very positively.

I feel like this generation of kids has a strong sense of social justice; they see the brokenness in the world and it is overwhelming,” said Servant Leadership teacher Peter Koo. “This is one small, tangible way to help – turning your faith into action. I’m really blessed when I go and see them serve.”

Photo: Peter Koo

Elementary also participated in Operation Christmas Child once again this year with Middle and High School, and in recent years has prepped hygiene kits in Friendship Circles, decorated tote bags for children entering foster care, drawn pictures for nursing-home residents, and made blankets for children in crisis.

VCS students serve at the Making It Happen food pantry.

And that’s just High School.

Middle School has also worked with Children’s Hunger Fund and on Operation Christmas Child, while also serving at local churches.

Additionally, nonprofit representatives have even visited the lunch-time Bible study to share with students.

“The hope is to develop a long-term rhythm of service and vision for how they can join what great organizations are doing as their lives go on and see ‘it’s more blessed to give than to receive,’" said Middle School Bible Teacher D.J. Jenkins.

8

the Village Voice

Week-in, week-out, students also receive a new challenge during Friday’s “Marvelous Morning” all-Elementary gatherings, including writing thank you notes for veterans, making cards for facilities staff, doing a secret act of service for their family, finding a way to serve their neighbors, and more.

VCServes may look different these days, but Village’s commitment to service remains—no matter the grade level.

“We hope VCServes would always be a part of the foundational heartbeat of Village Christian School for the glory of Christ and the good of our community,” said Spiritual Life Director Paul Pitts III.

Biblical Truth | Service

S P I R IT UA L L I F E U P DAT E

By Paul Pitts III, Spiritual Life Director

The Lord Jesus famously said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35).”

Therefore, at VCS, we long to cultivate and uphold a culture of service and giving. It is an important value for us to give our time, talents, and treasures for the glory of God and the good of others, especially those in need.

Likewise, the Lord Jesus said of Himself, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). The reality of our sin before the Holy God, who created us, leaves humanity with an eternal debt that we cannot ourselves pay. But the good news of the gospel is the Son of Man, the Second Adam, the Son of God, came to be the Savior of the world by serving as our representative, sacrificial substitute, and Mediator—giving Himself as a ransom on the cross so that all who believe would be saved, forgiven, and restored to God.

We are excited to present the new Christ Our Constant Podcast, hosted by Spiritual Life Director Paul Pitts III. Through this podcast, which was launched in August 2023, you will garner Biblically based insight into key topics and hear what VCS students are learning during Chapel.

We pray you will find encouragement and wisdom from the conversations and encourage you to subscribe and share.

LISTEN NOW: Christ Our Constant Podcast

In light of this gospel of abounding grace, rich mercy, and redeeming love, this gospel where the Son of God gave Himself to be the suffering servant, in light of this good news—we also serve. We love because Jesus first loved us (1 John 4:19), and we serve because Jesus first served us. We want to love one another as Jesus has loved us, and in so doing, make evident to the world that we are His disciples (John 13:34-35).

Fall/Winter 2023 | 9

A LU M N I F E AT U R E

The value of an investment can be measured in many ways.

Maybe it’s financial.

Maybe it’s time.

For Village Christian lifers Andy Rotunno and Jesse Correll, it’s lives impacted – and metric tons of food.

“It’s a special relationship, and we work together every single day,” Rotunno said. “This year, we will ship 90 truckloads of food to people around the world, and all that food will go out with the gospel.”

Rotunno currently works in procurement and distribution for Gleanings for the Hungry, while Correll serves as the production manager.

Gleanings is a nonprofit in Dinuba, California that produces, packs, and ships dry, shelf-stable, nutritious food to ministries all over the world.

VCS LIFERS ANDY ROTUNNO ('98) AND JESSE CORRELL ('06) HAVE LONG BEEN CONNECTED AND NOW ARE INSTRUMENTAL IN GLEANINGS FOR THE HUNGRY’S WORLDWIDE MINISTRY

A LU M N I F E AT U R E Photos: Harry Tom

10

the Village Voice

Photo: Shelly Raub

Fall/Winter 2023 | 11

Rotunno (1998) and Correll (2006) are instrumental in the day-to-day workflow.

God’s presence at this place. There is nothing glamorous about it, but we love it.”

“Andy gets [the food] in, and while it’s here, I deal with it. When it’s time to say where it goes, Andy jumps in,” Correll says. “We are two very uniquely gifted people, and we recognized early on that this is your strength and this is my strength. We love being human beings around each other and laughing at life’s intricacies.

Andy is going to be the dreamer, and I’m going to be the guy to figure out a way to do it.”

So, the community came to them.

To say the pair are deeply connected is an understatement, as their two families’ connections go back generations through the founding of Village Christian School and ministry at Village Church in Burbank.

Correll became the youth pastor at Village Church and began leading the same trips to Gleanings as Rotunno did for a decade.

Then in 2019, Correll also went full-time at Gleanings.

“Never would I have said I’d do this job; never would I have said this would be the physical location I’d be in but a different way I did say this was it, but I didn’t know it,” Correll says.

“The amount of times we say ‘Yes’ to the Lord in worship or say ‘He’s enough’ or ‘I will follow you,’ we are unknowingly setting ourselves up for what He has for us. When is the big moment when we say ‘Yes’ to the Lord? This was that moment for us.”

It’s hard work, and it’s impactful. Together, they help produce and distribute food to more than 30 countries and work with numerous local nonprofits, including And it stems Children’s Hunger Fund right here in the Greater Los Angeles Area. from seeds It’s hard work, and it’s impactful. And it stems planted from seeds planted long ago.

“I had incredible teachers who loved the Lord long ago. and who encouraged me and invested in me as Correll’s grandparents mentored and pastored Rotunno’s parents, who pastored alongside Jesse’s parents. Eventually Andy even served as Jesse's youth pastor at Village Church before being called to Gleanings in 2017.

They packed up a U-Haul moving truck and drove north to the Central Valley, leaving behind the community they loved.

“It was hard work,” Rotunno says. “It was not flashy or super entertaining, but it was so filled with the Holy Spirit. You could sense 12

the Village Voice

an individual each year,” Rotunno says. “Even though I would come into their class and spend a year with them as their student and move on, they would continue to invest in me.”

For Rotunno, it was people at VCS like Barbie Enterline, Dana Mikels, and particularly Tom Nare, he said.

“I was at the school, and he happened to be a teacher and principal at that time,” Rotunno says of Nare. “He was also a longtime member of the church. When I was coming off the rails in so many different ways, Tom really chose me

Fall/Winter 2023 | 13

and invested in me and invited me to change the direction of my life despite my circumstances.”

Rotunno went on to graduate from Azusa Pacific University and took a teaching job at Hillcrest Christian. While teaching, he discovered Gleanings at an Association of Christian Schools International Teachers Convention.

everything Village has to offer. [I developed] great friendships and growth in my own spiritual walk because of it.”

A few years later, he was the youth pastor at Village Church and led his first trip to the nonprofit.

Correll was on the team.

“I would say we had a very typical experience of what it was like at Gleanings,” he recalls. “You come not knowing at all what this weird place is or why you’re here or why you’re going, but it turns into a journey of a week, when you start getting reshaped.”

Now, Rotunno and Correll have the opportunity to invest in teams of volunteers from churches, schools, and organizations from all over that make their way to Gleanings to serve.

Correll Family

In the quiet simplicity, God consistently meets people while they work in the field, Correll says.

“People come with such a heavy burden that they don’t always talk about. You put people in the same place like this for a week, things bubble up a little,” he says. “We have this moment together, when you can enjoy serving and be part of something bigger than yourself for a week.”

That impact extends to their own children.

Rotunno has five kids, while Correll is expecting a third in January. They’re all part of God’s work at Gleanings as well.

Rotunno Family

Soon, they’ll even host one from VCS that is coming up in January as part of the school’s new immersive learning initiative, “The Experience.”

“I loved Village,” Correll says. “I had a great time being a lifer. It was a very special time, and a place where in that lifer world, you become very open to being yourself and saying ‘Yes’ to 14

the Village Voice

“Before given any full-time roles or staff status, we had to do a Youth With a Mission Discipleship Training School as a family of seven,” Rotunno says. “We stopped everything and became students again. It was all about drawing close to the Lord and loving God’s work and obeying where He leads us. We went on outreaches to Baja, Mexico; Athens, Greece; and Northern Israel, and did evangelism with our children.”

As the Lord leads each step, the investments multiply.

“The Lord has called me to be a shepherd for others in their faith, to walk with Him wherever I go, and to go wherever He leads me,” Rotunno says. “Being at Gleanings is a current walking out of that availability. ‘Lord, we are available to go wherever you want us to go.’ We are always open.”

So, they keep sowing seeds and finding new fields.

LEARN MORE:

And in the end, there’s no telling just how far that fruit will reach.

www.gleanings.org

In Case You Missed it: Student Reflection on 2023 Uganda Missions Trip As featured on www.villagechristian.org

Last Easter, 11 people took a bold step of faith that took them across the world for a life-changing week in Uganda.

Among them was now-senior Dalila Krieg.

Krieg, along with five other students, three teachers, a parent, and a friend of the community partnered with Show Mercy International “loving on children, visiting the most vulnerable, postnatal care, encouraging teen moms, planting a key-hole garden, dedicating a water well, tutoring kids, making friendships, encouraging one another, crying with each other, celebrating Easter in a local village, and showing mercy to the ‘least of these,’” said team leader Harry Tom.

Uganda Missions Team

It was a profound experience for everyone on the trip, which included two days of travel

Upon her return, Krieg reflected on all that God was stirring in her heart.

and five of ministry for Krieg, Sophia Beers, Deanna Cosio, Preston Dang, Andrew Das, Ben Garcia Jr., Amy Martens, Laura Stafford, Tom, Quang Dang, and Jeremiah Newhouse.

READ MORE: Dalila Krieg reflects on 2023 Uganda Missions Trip

S T U D E NT F E AT U R E

SENIOR SASHA OVALLE’S HARD WORK HAS DRIVEN HER TO SHINE IN BUSINESS COMPETITIONS, PUBLISHED POETRY, AND HER MANY OTHER PASSIONS A gemstone’s brilliance is measured as light reflects out from its interior, traveling through the facets and amplifying its unique characteristics and awe-inspiring sparkle.

How the stone is shaped brings out its special qualities, the craftsmanship of each cut unlockingboundless potential and revealing the gem’s innate value.

16

the Village Voice

It’s a metaphor that can also apply to people, and when it comes to facets, senior Sasha Ovalle shines.

Now in her final year at Village Christian School, Ovalle’s vigilant pursuit of her passions and opportunities has her poised to launch into God’s next chapter of her life, convicted in purpose and confident in her abilities.

Photo: Matt Farias

Fall/Winter 2023 | 17

“She is multi-faceted. She is multi-talented in terms of her vision in an entrepreneurial capacity, and then she has an athletic component, and then she has this really creative component,” says English Teacher Sophia Case. “It’s really unique when you come across a student that really shines. That’s why gems shine – because facets are cut into them.

To come across a kid, where it’s almost like you’re watching God cut the facets so well, but also she genuinely lets God work within her, and you’re watching it shine out into the world.

That’s really special.”

Ovalle is emerging as a standout in business and creatively as a published poet, receiving extensive awards and recognition in both.

The natural giftings are there, but it’s her drive that sets her apart.

However, the craftsmanship actually began taking shape generations ago, when her grandmother won the lottery in Costa Rica and used the money to move her family to the United States in pursuit of the American dream.

Her father, Alex, was born in the U.S., where he met Sasha’s mother, Roxana, who immigrated from El Salvador.

“I look up to my parents in so many ways,” Ovalle says. “Looking at my father, who has grown up in the United States and is able to empathize with my struggles, he’s able to put into perspective what I’m feeling, and that triggers a lot of thoughts for my poems. My mother has extremely different experiences.

She has always been supportive of my dreams, and if she sees me trying to fulfill my dreams, it’s a fulfillment of hers. There is this established sense of where you came from and your roots.

It opens my eyes to how many different cultures there are and that there are so many similarities between them.”

They are special dynamics that are reflected in her poetry and come from deep within her heart.

18

the Village Voice

“She has a very strong understanding of the role that culture, ethnicity, and family play in shaping a person’s life,” Case says. “Her desire to bring her culture, ethnicity, and her family into her work is what makes it really special. It has incredible authenticity, which blows me away.”

That doesn’t mean creativity always comes easily for Ovalle.

“Poetry is something so vulnerable, and there is so much of me that is revealed in my poetry,” she says. “You could know me at my core in one poem, and that’s something scary. My writing poetry inherently reveals my determination to change the perceptions around me. If that’s what it takes to make a dent, I would gladly do it in a heartbeat.”

That bravery has built over the years.

And not just in writing.

Ovalle has immersed herself in the Entrepreneurialism and Global Leadership Concentration, diving into pitch competitions and developing a conservation-inspired voice-activated shower head aimed at reducing water waste.

You could know me at my core in one poem, and that’s something scary.

It’s taken grit and determination – and a few “Nos.” Back-to-back years, she finished second in the EGL pitch competition here at VCS. But that didn’t stop her. She went back to work, refined

While she attended a summer business intensive at Columbia University and a course at Brown University on 20th century social movements, they worked with mentors over Zoom; developed a business plan, slides, and pitch; and competed in “Pitch Day” on September 7 against the rest of their cohort.

It was a success, and “Shower Saver” moved on to “Demo Day” as one of eight finalists from across every YES! cohort.

That’s where she encountered another “No.” “It was a great experience, because that was a lesson to me. We didn’t necessarily lose, it was important to know the right people, and we got unlucky that we didn’t have the right investors that had a grasp for our market,” Ovalle says.

That would soon change.

Ovalle got back to work, and additional competitions were on the horizon.

“Sasha will tell you, she has always had an entrepreneur's spirit, and that was clear to us from her first year in the program, which is why she is the only student to have earned the EGL Student of the Year recognition in her first year,” says EGL Dean John Khouri. “Sasha leans into every EGL project, as manifested in her team's performance in the VCS Start-Up Crusade two years in row. What comes through are her commitments to rigorous research and rehearsal, resulting in confident, visionary investor presentations.”

On November 11, she brought “Shower Saver” to the National Society of High School Scholars’ “Be More” competition, where she earned $10,000, which she plans to use to produce a working product prototype. She’s

Photo: Matt Farias

the concept, and further crafted her messaging.

In April, she and project partner Lola Ololade were accepted into BizWorld’s 2023 YES! Accelerator Summer Cohort.

Sasha Ovalle and Lola Ololade present via Zoom as part of YES! Accelerator Summer Cohort.

currently one of 15 finalists competing for $100,000 in grant funding.

“Concentrations is about providing students with the tools and the encouragement to explore potential career paths and, more importantly, their Christian purpose,” Khouri says. “Sasha's investment in Concentrations, and particularly EGL, has accelerated her own thinking about her path. By age 18, she was able to identify and target particular universities, majors, mentors, graduate programs and firms. She has developed a vision for her life.”

Has she ever. Ovalle recently earned Gold from the Hispanic Heritage Foundation for “Shower Saver;” competed in pitch events at California State University, Northridge and the Paradigm Challenge, an international, STEM-based innovation competition sponsored by Project Paradigm; was awarded a scholarship to attend the Amazon AHEAD Program, a sixth-month, online STEM education program; and won the YoungStar Award from the Citizen Entrepreneurship Competition out of Germany.

“We are so amazed by your creativity, commitment and enthusiasm for entrepreneurship,” says the Citizen Entrepreneurship Competition award notice.

“Your dedication at such a young age is very inspiring."

In the meantime, Ovalle was published in her third and fourth poetry anthologies. Her submission “Bloodline” was among top 100 Fall/Winter 2023 | 19

pieces reviewed for the One Page Poetry Contest’s 2023 publication and a “Topical Winner” in the American High School-Holiday Special 2023 Anthology.

“She is intrinsically motivated in every way,” Case says. “What is special and unique about that dynamic in her writing is that she is always producing content. The only way to be a truly gifted writer, is that you have to have that burning thing inside of you to keep producing, to keep working on your craft. And she has that.”

The same could be said about her four years and four-time Universal Cheerleaders Association All-American honors on varsity cheer, or vocal arts as a founding member of V-Cappella, or her leadership in a variety of on-campus clubs, or her elite academic achievement as a California Scholarship

Federation member.

and

National

Honor

Society

“I think what really drives me is the potential for change,” she says. “There is so much capacity for change in our world. When you do hear a 'Yes,' when you do get confirmation that you can change our world in a positive way, it’s such an encouraging feeling. There’s still a need for people to share their voice and a demand for the youth to strive for making an impact in society. Without writers, without entrepreneurs, it’s hard to imagine what life would be like. Bringing that change keeps me going.”

It's taken hard work, determination, and skillful craftsmanship, but Ovalle not only shines, she shines bright. And there are no limits to how many facets may yet be added.

Bloodline | By Sasha Ovalle Gold, bright as it may gleam, no longer holds its past allure.

Nor does the diamond that sits upon the ring so pure, Treasures that once gave rise to endless war and strife, All dethroned by the most primal of fluids, the essence of life.

Taught to cast it scornfully at frauds and schemers, Now the masses kneel before it as the ultimate redeemer.

For that liquid, shared in our slovenly kiss, Is the stuff of dreams, a portal to untold bliss.

To be me, or not to be me? The longing for the latter is profound, As science unravels the secrets of my DNA, its guts unwound.

With genetic sight they carefully separate strands from soul.

Oh, hail the prophets, who fill the infinite hole!

The transparency of our desires, stark against the night.

Like the helpless host who covets the power of the parasite.

Banish those fears, for your story is yet to be told, Perhaps a descendant of kings, or a baron of old.

From the tyranny of bloodline, we once fought to break free, Only to cling to its leg with feral ferocity.

We forget there's a fate worse than failure, in idleness it lies, But the shine of procrastination often catches our eyes.

As a child of humble roots, I join the salivary quest, To unlock hidden secrets in my family crest.

Alas, the palmist opens the mysterious door, Revealing that I am exactly who I was before.

20

the Village Voice

As appears in: One Page Poetry Contest’s 2023 Anthology and American High School-Holiday Special 2023 Anthology as a “Topical Winner”

THE 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR MARKS THE 75 TH ANNIVERSARY OF VILLAGE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL'S FOUNDING, AND PLANS TO COMMEMORATE THE MILESTONE ARE ALREADY IN THE WORKS From an unassuming church classroom to an expanding footprint on the corner of Village and Penrose, God’s story at Village Christian School is generations in the making.

And it’s about to turn 75.

The 2024-2025 school year marks the 75th anniversary of Village’s founding as an outreach to the community, and we eagerly anticipate a year of celebration, connection, and vision-casting for the next 75 years.

“This opportunity to commemorate this pivotal anniversary is such a blessing, and we want to bring all corners of the Village community – past and present – back together in celebration and gratitude of God’s faithfulness,” said Head of School Tom Konjoyan. “The ability to provide an innovative and impactful Christ-centered education through the decades is a testament to God’s plan for this school and the incredible

people He has put in place to steward the hearts and minds of generations of students.”

Special events and gatherings are already in the works, so make sure to follow VCS on all social media channels, update your contact information, and be on the lookout for future communications about next year’s exciting plans.

Stemming from Rev. Phil Gibson’s spirit-led vision in 1949 to our transition to 8930 Village Avenue in 1958 and the first graduating high school class of nine students in 1966, God continues to transform the school as a thriving home for life-changing spiritual formation, academic excellence, award-winning fine arts, and championship-caliber athletics.

We are a blessed community, and we cannot wait to celebrate this landmark milestone and shared generational history together.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT Fall/Winter 2023 | 21

F I N E A RTS F E AT U R E

DANCE COMPANY’S RECENT PERFORMANCE AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS A TESTAMENT TO SKILL AND PROGRAM’S PROGRESS Photo: Matt Farias

With Universal CityWalk dressed up with lights and decorations, snow covering Hogwarts, and “Grinchmas” in full effect, Village Christian’s Dance Company helped usher in the Christmas season at Universal Studios.

22

the Village Voice

Photo: Sonja Rakicevic

The special opportunity was a pivotal moment for VCS students as both Middle School and High School came together to perform for the first time since Dance Company’s beginnings a decade ago.

“That was every performing group of Dance Company together in a medley,” said Director of Fine Arts Natalie Taylor discussing the growth of the program. “The youngest intermediate group did the same level of choreography in their hip hop routine that the varsity did seven years ago.”

In total, 53 dancers across Middle School and the two High School groups participated as part of the STARS Performance Program, which held the special event at CityWalk in Universal City on December 1.

“They all worked together. It was such a great opportunity to really experience what it was like to be on a professional stage,” said Dance Company Director Kim Patteri. “This was a brand new medley. I wanted to do something different – something more Rockettes, Christmas time, Macy’s Parade kind of feel to open the show, and it worked. They had different choreography. We blended all the Company entrances and exits and even danced together, and it all worked beautifully because they are all so well trained and they are very disciplined.”

Company were planted during zero period, with dance classes before school through the Fine Arts Academy.

That offering eventually expanded to afternoon classes, which began preparing students for High School musical theatre productions.

Before long, periods were added into the day schedule, and Dance Company became fully intertwined into the curriculum.

“As I’ve gone through High School, I’ve seen it get better and better every single year,” said senior Rhiana McKee, one of Dance Company’s earliest members and a performer this year at CityWalk. “The school has invited us to more events; we’ve done the Gala, pep rallies, Christmas, and through that, we’ve gotten more opportunities outside of school at Disneyland and Universal. With the school giving us more space to perform, we’ve gotten more acknowledgement.”

"More space" also includes facilities enhancements, such as a sprung floor in the Performing Arts Room, upgraded mirrors, and new dance bars.

But at the heart of the program’s growth is Patteri herself.

It's a testament to how far the program has come.

“She built this whole program,” Taylor said.

More than 10 years ago, the seeds for Dance

Patteri is a longtime dance veteran, who studied Fall/Winter 2023 | 23

at York University before undertaking a two-year intensive with the National Ballet of Canada.

It may not look the way she expected, but Patteri certainly has a thriving dance company now, and the benefits are far-reaching.

She’s toured with dance companies, performed on Broadway, and brings an unprecedented level of professional experience and connections to VCS.

“Our Musical Theatre ensembles are the best in Southern California. There is no comparison,” Taylor said. “Our theatre program now has dancers that are as skilled as the actors and singers. Everything is now excellent, and that is largely due to our thriving Dance Program.”

“Kim has a way of inspiring the non-dancer and the established dancer,” Taylor said. “She connects with students who have never moved before and finds a way to inspire them to dance.

She sparks something new in them. And she takes students who have danced their whole lives and inspires them to grow even further in their gifts. We have this huge variety of experience within Dance Company, but we have space for all of them now; we have a place for every kind of dancer.”

One such dancer is VCS graduate Bella Hermansen (2019), who grew up in dance but had fallen out of love with the art.

But that was before Patteri.

“She is the kind of person that if I ever disappointed her, I think it would break me,” said Hermansen a founding member of VCS Dance Company. “She is so genuine, authentic, and real. You can tell she will give you the shirt off her back. When it came to dance, she was willing to work with whatever was in front of her and make it the best.”

The roots of Patteri’s approach and heart for her students reach back through challenging experiences early in her dance career.

“I wrote in my Bible, ‘I will never, ever yell at students,’” Patteri recalled. “I wanted to have a Dance Company one day. That was one of my goals when I was in my 20s, that I would one day have a Dance Company that honors people, that respects people, that doesn’t yell at people, and that is so good and excellent. And that is often totally opposite of what the dance world is like.”

24

the Village Voice

Hermansen, who is now back at VCS helping with Mary Poppins (Middle School) and Beauty and the Beast (High School) this year, sees the effects first-hand as well.

“Almost all of them had Dance Company on their resume,” she said of auditions. “We can play around a little more, and we put real dance in [the show] because we have kids that are constantly training. … We can do everything.

There are kids coming up that have vocal and dance training at the level of a high schooler, but they are only in sixth grade.”

After training technique in Paul Taylor, Lester Horton, José Limón, and learning from professional guest instructors, students are prepared and already distinguishing themselves when applying to performing arts colleges and universities.

And best of all, they can reflect God’s love and inspire others, Patteri said.

“When you see great things, you just want to be better, and that’s what I’m hoping this will instill in everybody else,” she said.

Judging by Dance Company’s performance at CityWalk, that’s exactly what’s happening through Patteri right here at VCS. READ MORE: Singin' in the Rain Making it Rain on the VCS Stage

Photo: Sonja Rakicevic

Fall/Winter 2023 | 25

GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY’S UNEXPECTED INFUSION OF TALENT LED TO LATE-SEASON HEROICS, HONORS, AND AN INVALUABLE STATEMENT OF SUPPORT Distance running can be a lonely sport.

Valley Christian.

The grueling hours on roads and trails can grind away at a runner physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Nesmith placed third and was named League MVP for her aggregate finishes across all three league meets, including the season-opening meet, which she won and set a new personal record.

That’s not the case for sophomore Erin Nesmith, who not only enjoys training, she found herself unexpectedly surrounded by teammates at the Olympic League Finals this fall in a moving show of support – and dominance.

“This season, the stars aligned,” Nesmith said.

Did they ever.

With only two rostered runners for most of the season, including Nesmith and Hannah McNeal, the VCS Athletic Department went to work recruiting athletes to join cross country, and the result was an overwhelming first-place finish at League Finals.

“The big surprise at League Finals wasn’t the team win, it was the way they destroyed the competition with the individual performances, especially the ones running for the first time,” said head coach Ricardo Nunez.

Village Christian runners finished Nos. 1, 3, 5, 11, 14, 20, and 22, en route to a 17-point win over 26

the Village Voice

“That was a big morale boost to start the season with a PR,” she said. “It motivated me.”

Nesmith just needed more back-up, and it came in dominating fashion.

Freshman Sophie Santos took first place overall at Finals, followed by Nesmith, Keegan Hudspeth, Loren Bangloy, Rhiana McKee, McNeal, and Megan Mulligan, some of whom originally hailed from basketball and volleyball.

“I have no experience with an official cross country team, but all my life I’ve been a fast runner and have a lot of stamina,” Santos said. “Even though it was last-minute that the team was formed, some of the girls are athletic and have experience. I was like, ‘OK, we got this.’”

Another first-timer was McKee, whose commitment to ongoing training and work in the weight room was instrumental in being able to make a quick shift from volleyball to cross country.

AT H L E T I C S F E AT U R E

Photo: Sally Soher

Fall/Winter 2023 | 27

28

the Village Voice

Photo:s: Sally Soher

“I tried hyping it up and making it seem like a fun team thing,” Bangloy said of her pitch to basketball.

“The more people we got, the easier it was to get more to join.”

Suddenly, practice was full. Newfound teammates began to push and motivate each other.

And that meant the world to Nesmith.

Coach Nunez addresses the team after winning at League finals.

“It was so out of the blue but it was honestly so perfect,” McKee said. “The girls at this school, a lot of us are in the weight room every day and are dedicated to our sports and to getting ourselves better physically. When they asked us, it was kind of a no-brainer.”

“Initially, I was a little nervous for the change because I hadn’t run with such a big team,” she said. “As more and more girls came on, it was really fun, and it made the workouts better. It was a really great change. They were super sweet and super supportive. They worked so hard, and it was so great being surrounded by so many girls working as hard - if not harder - than I was.”

However, the result at Finals was also valuable for another reason.

Without so many girls joining the team, Nesmith’s season would have ended right there. In order to qualify for CIF Southern Section Prelims, cross county’s postseason, the school has to field a complete team. Nesmith would not be able to run at CIF as an individual.

It was a fate she went into the season already accepting.

As committed and as strong of a runner as Nesmith has proven to be, that didn’t sit well with the Athletic Department.

And as it turned out, it didn’t sit well with her prospective teammates either.

“She’s super passionate about it and really, really good at it,” McKee said. “Since we were already almost prepared, it was great that we got to use that training for something other than our own sport and something other than ourselves. We actually got to help out Erin and give her a chance to qualify.”

VCS Cross Country at the second Olympic League meet.

The results propelled VCS girls cross country to the top of the standings and into the postseason for the first time since 2019.

Though the team didn’t advance beyond Prelims to the CIF-SS Finals, the most meaningful achievements had already surfaced.

Teamwork. Dedication. Faithfulness. Selflessness.

Building blocks for a promising cross country future.

“It was one of those perfect seasons,” Nesmith said.

Girls started to trickle into practice prior to League Meet No. 2. Among them were teammates from the soccer team and girls hoops.

Fall/Winter 2023 | 29

AT H L E T I C S U P DAT E

SEVENTEEN BROKEN RECORDS AMONG 2023 SEASON HIGHLIGHTS Village Christian has a rich tradition of hard-nose football, passionate fans, and thrilling finishes.

OFFENSE

The Crusaders added to that legacy this season with a staggering 17 broken records, headline-grabbing wins, and a roster loaded with talent, including 18 seniors and 11 players with alumni connections.

Previous Record: 25 vs Whittier Christian (2014)

For the first time in program history, VCS settled a long-standing rivalry with Burroughs on the football field, beating the Bears 32-27 at Memorial Field in Burbank. Burroughs went on to win the Pacific League title.

Passing Touchdowns in a Career | 59 and counting

Completions in a Game | 29 vs Cantwell-Sacred Heart

CHASE EVERETT Passing Yards in a Career | 4,988 and counting Previous Record: Jake Hagedorn 4,788 (2002 - 2004)

Previous Record: Jesse Hanckel 51 (2011- 2014)

Completions in a Game | 29 vs Cantwell-Sacred Heart Previous Record: Jesse Hanckel 25 (2014)

Completions in a Season | 205

Another of the season’s headline wins was over Heritage Christian in the 35th annual Bible Bowl, which the Crusaders won 30-14, taking a 19-16 series lead all-time.

Previous Record: Nate Bennett 175 (2021)

Playing in Division 7 this season, VCS (7-4) wound up with a heart-wrenching first-round exit in overtime to Mayfair, who went on to win the CIF Southern Section D7 championship.

Previous Record: Jake Hagedorn 333 (2002)

When the dust cleared and stats were compiled, the Crusaders wound up with a historic number of records and seven inductions into the school's All-Time Team.

RYAN DELLUTRI

Completions in a Career | 361 and counting

Previous Record: Jesse Hanckel 341 (2011 - 2014)

Attempts in a Season | 365

LUCAS LEHMAN Receiving Touchdowns in a Season | 15 Previous Record: Julius Oliver 14 (2021)

Receiving Yards in a Career | 1,855

Previous Record: Willy Pena 1,666 (2002 - 2003)

Receptions in a Career | 131

Previous Record: Willy Pena 77 (2002 - 2003)

Receptions in a Season | 65 30

the Village Voice

Previous Record: Jagg Richer 50 (2022)/Sam Faulkner 50 (2021)

11 LEGACY players in the program this year Player and alumni parent(s) listed below BENJAMIN DONNELLY Son of Ryan Donnelly (1998) and Jennifer Nowicki (1998) JOSHUA DONNELLY Son of Ryan Donnelly (1998) and Jennifer Nowicki (1998) CHASE EVERETT Son of Earl Everett (1986) GAVIN EVERETT Son of Chad Everett (1992) and Kim Oddone (1991) ASA FUNK Son of Jake Funk (1995) and Fontaina Damwijk (1994) Sophomore quarterback Chase Everett

OZ FUNK Son of Jake Funk (1995) and Fontaina Damwijk (1994)

DEFENSE

NEIL GUNN Son of Neil Gunn (2001)

Tackles for Loss in a Game | 22 vs Granada Hills Previous Record: 20 vs Cantwell-Sacred Heart (2022)

BRADDOCK KENDRICK Son of Aaron Kendrick (1997) and Megan McLeod (1998)

Touchdowns in a Season | 6

JADON ROGERS Son of Toi Williams (2002)

Interceptions in a Season | 13

DOMINIC SIMON Son of Dianna De Los Santos (1998)

ANDREW HUEZO

DYLAN SIMON Son of Dianna De Los Santos (1998)

Previous Record: 3

Previous Record: 9

Sacks in a Career | 24

Previous Record: James Edwards 18 (1982 - 1984)

MATTHEW KELLER Tackles for Loss in a Season | 25.5

Previous Record: Matthew Keller 23 (2022)

TYES MCCONDICHIE

Photos: Matt Farias

Longest Interception for TD | 102 Yards

Previous Record: Scott Maxwell 98 yards (2010)

Stay up-to-date with the new VCS Athletics App

Crusader defense broke four records in 2023.

Follow your favorite programs with Village Christian’s VCS Athletics App. Launched in November, the new mobile application is available in both the App Store and Google Play, and will allow you to view schedules, rosters, and news from teams across VCS. Download the app today!

Fall/Winter 2023 | 31

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

THE 25TH ANNUAL TOURNEY SAW HIGHEST NUMBER OF GOLFERS, ALUMNI, AND REVENUE RAISED FOR VCS STUDENT-ATHLETES The tree-lined fairways of DeBell Golf Club feature serene views of Burbank and the Verdugo mountains, challenging hazards and doglegs, and the occasional deer wandering from hole to hole.

On November 3, they also played host to the 25th annual Crusader Golf Classic, resulting in record-breaking participation and revenue for Village Christian School.

“Talk about a blessing,” said Vice President Tracy Nightingale. “Having this level of support from the VCS community, our business partners, and friends

32

the Village Voice

of the school is tremendous, and it’s our students that will truly enjoy the benefits of their generosity.”

This year’s tournament was once again hosted by the VCS Booster Club and boasted 121 registered participants, including more than 15 alumni, bringing in more than $35,000 in profit. The funds raised will be used to completely resurface the Dave Wilson Court flooring inside the Kendall Pavilion, which is scheduled for summer 2024.

“I had a blast,” said VCS alum and current teacher and coach Micah Behrend. “I don’t get many

Photo Dennis: Oliver

opportunities to go to school events because of teaching, so it was nice to be there, be part of it, and have fun with other teachers and coaches. It was also fun to see some of the volleyball players from the ’03 championship team there. As an alum, it’s great to see the support for the school, and as a volleyball coach, it means the world knowing that funds will go toward the new gym floor.”

Past events have supported a wide variety of athletics-related improvement projects, the purchase of new transportation vehicles, and extensive new equipment dating back to the tourney’s early days.

“To me, the thing I’ve always appreciated about it is that it brings all the people that are interested in the athletics programs at Village to one place at one time,” said VCS Board Member, longtime participant, and former tournament coordinator

Jim Frankian. “Whether kids were softball players or baseball players or basketball players, everyone was there at the same place at the same time working toward the same goal, and it was really fun to see.

And a lot of energy went into it.”

The first tournament was actually held in the Antelope Valley, Frankian said. Run by the Booster Club and then-Athletic Director Marty Martin, Frankian remembers playing in the inaugural event.

He later became a mainstay in the event’s planning alongside the Boosters, school, and fellow VCS parent Bill Ayers.

“It was fun to see a group of 15-20 Booster Club partners pitching in at check-in and everything it takes to pull it off,” Frankian added. “Golf tournaments take a lot of people to run smoothly.

To see the camaraderie of the team putting it together and the value of people coming Fall/Winter 2023 | 33

34

the Village Voice

together – past, present, and future athletics families – was really fun.”

In 2021, the tournament moved from Angeles National, where it had been hosted for years, to DeBell, a location that Frankian said was long eyed as a potential site for the event.

2023 Tournament Milestones 25th Annual Event 121 Registered Participants 38 Volunteers 15 VCS Alumni Participants $35,000 Raised for initiative The funds raised will be used to completely resurface the Dave Wilson Court flooring inside the Kendall Pavilion, which is scheduled for summer 2024.

Volunteer Tina Gunn greets golfers at the 2023 tournament.

“DeBell allows us to keep the cost of hosting effective and to increase our fundraising profits,” said Events and Volunteers Manager Lesli Cates. “For many of our participants, they grew up playing on the course, so it’s nostalgic for some of them. And it is such a beautiful setting, especially early in the morning. For the golfers, we want to make it more special than their normal golf outing, engage with our volunteers, create fun challenges for them, and keep them well fed on the course.”

It’s those volunteers that are essential to the event’s success. This year, 38 people volunteered on and off the course to make the event possible, including seven alumni.

“There is no event if there are no volunteers,” said Cates in agreement with Frankian. “The volunteers at the Golf Classic range from new, young, kindergarten parents to alumni parents.

To see that sense of Village community coming together to serve at this event speaks to their commitment to helping make the event successful for VCS students.”

Preparations are already underway for the next event, which will be held on November 8, 2024.

WATCH MORE: 2023 Golf Classic Recap

Fall/Winter 2023 | 35

TRIBUTE

ON NOVEMBER 8, THE VILLAGE CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY UNEXPECTEDLY LOST ONE OF ITS FOUNDATIONAL FIGURES – FORMER TEACHER, ADMINISTRATOR, MENTOR, AND FRIEND, TOM NARE. FOR MORE THAN 40 YEARS, MR. NARE SERVED WITH A HEART OF PASSION AND LOVE FOR HIS STUDENTS AND COMMUNITY. HE RETIRED FROM VCS IN 2020 BELOVED BY STUDENTS AND STAFF ALIKE, SOME OF WHOM HAVE SHARED MEMORIES, TRIBUTES, AND REFLECTIONS ON THEIR TIME WITH SUCH AN IMPACTFUL MAN OF GOD. WE THANK THE LORD FOR THE GIFT OF MR. NARE AND THE BLESSING HE WAS TO SO MANY.

36

the the Village Village Voice Voice

Mr. Nare, I have known him all of my life both from VCS and Village Church. I didn't have him as my teacher, but he was a huge influence on my life both in school and as an adult. He was also a huge influence on both of my kids' lives when they went to VCS as well. He really helped them navigate school and think about good decision-making. He was a great man and a treasure. I am proud to have called Tom my friend. I will miss him dearly! 2 Timothy 4:7 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”

CHRIS TAYLOR | CLASS OF 1989 Tom Nare was my principal for the first half of my teaching career, and his love for the students stands out the most. Whether he was training the middle school teachers, speaking to parents, or interacting with students, he always came back to his belief that God had a wonderful plan for each child on our campus. They were not just words, because he often grew quite emotional when thinking about how the Lord loved each student and how each was created with talents and gifts. That doesn’t mean Tom thought that they were all angels – he was also a master at dealing with mischievous students. If a student was in trouble, he would call the student into his office and just listen quietly. He would then claim to have something important to do and make the student sweat for a day or two before giving the consequence.

The waiting was often much more stressful for the student than the penalty. Many of the things I like most about my teaching came from Tom and his love for students and dry sense of humor.

BRADLEY PETERSON | COLLEAGUE Anybody who was privileged to work with Tom could see his love for Jesus. His calling was to kids, and there wasn’t a thing he wouldn’t do to lead them to Him! He used every opportunity he had to remind them of His love for them. Tom’s favorite line went something like this: “How are the kids going to know how much you care unless you show them how much you care?”

Oh, and yes, he could “Teleport” …

Tom Nare has had a profound impact on me, and among my memories of him, a couple of them really stand out. My first memory of Tom was at my daughter's eighth grade graduation, when he was the Middle School Principal. In his letter to the eighth grade classes, he told them that if they had been under his care for the past three years and they did not yet know the Lord as their Savior, he had failed in his mission to share the gospel with them. He so clearly knew his purpose. When I started substitute teaching at Village a few years later, Tom frequently appeared in class to ensure that all was well. I remember looking up from taking attendance or checking the permanent teacher's notes to see his calming, peaceful presence at the back of the room. He took such good care of us.

In recent years, Tom often counseled and encouraged me on Village's campus and at church. Many of those conversations were rooted in his knowledge of scripture and understanding of human nature. Tom showed his love for the Lord by loving, honoring, and serving God's children, myself included. I am so grateful for my friend Tom Nare.

GARNETT DELGADO | COLLEAGUE When I was starting out my teaching career, Tom Nare convinced me to move from elementary and join his middle school staff. He saw something in me I never saw in myself, and the years I spent teaching 6th graders were some of the most formative years of my life. Tom loved with an eternal perspective and saw students who felt unseen, misunderstood, or forgotten. For years, I watched alumni return to campus to visit Mr. Nare, and to seek out encouragement or share life updates. I was inspired by the connections he had cultivated and hoped to have a similar impact on my students. He let me take risks as an educator, gave me the permission to try new things, and extended grace if things didn’t quite go as planned. While I was teaching 6th graders, he was still teaching me. He taught me to love and appreciate all types of students.

He truly lived out one of his often repeated mantras, “Kids don’t care what you know unless they know you care.”

TINA (RUST) AUST | CLASS OF 1996 / COLLEAGUE

DEAN LAGASSE | COLLEAGUE

Fall/Winter 2023 | 37

During my four years at Village, I was fortunate enough to have a mentor, whose impact on my life remains undeniable, even though he is no longer with us. Mr. Nare was not just a teacher; he embodied kindness and had a gentle heart that left an everlasting imprint on all those he encountered. What set him apart was his ability to meet students where they were at – academically, emotionally, and spiritually. His genuine interest in our lives and wellbeing created a bond that extended beyond the classroom. Although, the news of his passing has brought great sadness, his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched. The lessons he taught still reign true, shaping the character of those fortunate enough to be under his mentorship.

I find solace, knowing he is with his Heavenly Father for eternity and look forward to meeting again.

JESSE HANCKEL | CLASS OF 2015 What can you say about a man like Tom Nare? As a Village alum (2002) and a lifer, I seemingly have always known Mr. Nare. When pausing to reflect on what he meant to not only the Village Christian family, but to me individually, there are a lot of words that come to mind. Words like “kind,” “caring,” “compassionate,” and “playful” are ones that are easy to point out if you knew him at all. However, I think the word that I think of most when I think of Mr. Nare is “faithful.” He was always around! Not just present, but always available to lend an ear, provide a word of encouragement, or steer you in the right direction when you had strayed from the narrow path. It was this faithfulness, to not only the students, parents, and faculty at Village, but to the Lord, that I most appreciated about this man. It is safe to say that Mr. Nare heard the words that I long to hear someday from the Lord when He calls me home, “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”

IAN MARTIN | CLASS OF 2002

I can still remember standing on the Admin Field talking with Mr. Nare about coming to teach 7th grade Bible. I didn't want to say “Yes,” but Mr. Nare was persistent and kept seeking me out, asking me to just give it a year. And that year has turned into over 25 years working at Village. Mr. Nare took a risk on me, gave me a shot, and poured into me what it meant to put students first. Over the years of working together, he became Tom, a friend. I saw Tom give grace upon grace to not only students, but really everyone he came into contact with. He was about relationships founded in Jesus, leading kids to Jesus was his priority.

In some of my darkest days, Tom was an ever-present encouragement to me and my family, believing along with me that God is good. Over the years, we discussed many students, and found ourselves believing that God loves students more than we ever could. I thank Tom for being an influence on my life, on the many, many lives he touched. I know when he stepped into the presence of Jesus he heard, "Well done, my good and faithful servant." Tom lived his life with eyes toward heaven, and I am thankful that God allowed him to work some of his student magic on Village for all these years.

DANA (WILSON) MIKELS | CLASS OF 1993 / COLLEAGUE After not seeing Mr. Nare for over 10 years, he walked up and said, “Travis Panarisi and Kathy Gil are married?!?” So excited for us, like not a day had passed. When he would see me on campus with my middle school students, he would tell them, “Don’t let her fool you, I knew her when she was your age” I’d say, “Mr. Nare, don’t blow my cover!” He’d say, “You can call me Tom,” and I would tell him, “Never!” He loved seeing me on campus correcting students for the same things Travis and I did everyday as kids. If I impact one student's life in the way Mr. Nare impacted Travis', my daughter Riley's, or mine, I will consider myself a "Good and Faithful Servant." Our campus and our Village families mourn the GOAT "Good and Faithful Servant."

KATHY (GIL) PANARISI | CLASS OF 1995

38

the Village Voice

A Memorial for Tom Nare was held on December 16, 2023, at Village Church.

WATCH NOW: Tom Nare Memorial

A LU M N I U P DAT E

Crusaders Come Home Homecoming, one of Village Christian’s most special weeks celebrated childhood TV shows, beloved traditions, and a few surprises this year.

Senior Hawkins Meek was crowned the 2023 Homecoming King at Nonfire before Cora Kendrick, daughter of Aaron Kendrick (1997) and Megan (McLeod) Kendrick (1998), was announced Queen at halftime of the big game, which saw VCS football take care of Big Bear 58-6.

Before the game, 2003 CIF-Southern Section Division IV Player of the Year Mike Richards was inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame, and in a surprise celebration, was joined by longtime coach and one of VCS volleyball’s architects, Bill Schnobrich, as a fellow inductee. The two helped Village to its first CIF section championship of any kind in 2003.

Thank you to the following alumni for stopping by the alumni table at Homecoming: Travis Woodward (1985) James Edwards (1985) Earl Everett (1986) Kim (Oddone) Everett (1991) Chad Everett (1992) Fontaina (Damwijk) Funk (1994) Vanessa (Leonard) Mitchell (1994) Jake Funk (1995) Tina (Rust) Aust (1996) Aaron Kendrick (1997) Lesli (Gunn) Cates (1997) Armen Kalousdian (1998) Cristina (Alvarado) Peraza (1998) Dianna De Los Santos (1998) Megan (McLeod) Kendrick (1998) Neil Gunn (2001) Hayley (Young) Norton (2002) Matthew Delgado (2002) Merly (Barco) Long (2003) Danielle (Cooper) Delgado (2007) Jared Dodd (2020) Makaila Dodd (2022) David Dykstra (2023) Michael Maldonado (2023)

READ MORE: Hall of Fame Induction: Mike Richards (2003)

WATCH MORE: 2023 Homecoming Recap

READ MORE: Hall of Fame Induction: Bill Schnobrich

40

the Village Voice

Fall/Winter 2023 | 41

Crusaders for Life BETH (APPLETON) BROWN | CLASS OF 1962

Beth is retired from the insurance industry and is "loving every minute."

JUDY (EDDINGTON) WADE | CLASS OF 1962

I started Village in first grade at the Village Church campus in Burbank. The current campus was just a dream. I graduated from the 9th grade – that was the highest grade in 1962. I did attend classes at the current campus but it looked nothing like the beautiful place it is now. What a transition! Parents, wonderful teachers, staff, investors, supporters and visionaries helped Village grow to what it is today. It definitely was and is a group effort. I still have dear friends from those days at Village, and I cherish all my wonderful memories. May God bless all of you.

MICHAEL HARDY | CLASS OF 1982

Michael is a Physician Assistant and recently finished working in El Paso with undocumented minors across the border. He currently lives in Florida.

MARY JANE HIBBARD | CLASS OF 1988

I am serving as the principal of Garden Grove High School, attending Rockharbor Church, and living in Huntington Beach.

GREG ALEXANIAN | CLASS OF 1997

Greg is the co-owner of the Alexanian Apartment Advisors, which has successfully represented the sale of 3,300 apartment units in Burbank and Glendale. He hosts a Bible study alongside his wife, Atineh, at their home in Shadow Hills and attends Citylight Church in Burbank.

“Village Christian had an integral role in my development, which I am forever grateful for and thrilled to have daughters Natalee and Monica attending currently (son Leon starting next year). Exciting to see how far the school has progressed over the years, while still retaining the ‘Village’ community.

Hats off to the leadership and staff.”

KARA (HUNT) CLARK | CLASS OF 1997

After owning my own photography business for 15 years, I decided to dive into teaching. I have been teaching high school photography at John Burroughs HS for the last seven years. I absolutely love my job. I also teach yearbook and work as a mentor teacher to newly placed teachers. I have two grown kids, Ethan, who is 21 and living and working in Colorado and my daughter Allison, who is 19 and a sophomore at Pepperdine University and studying Math.

42

the Village Voice

JENNIFER SPIRES | CLASS OF 2000

Jennifer will be married to Iain Hill, a lawyer from Reno, Nevada, on September 20, 2024, in La Jolla.

IAN MARTIN | CLASS OF 2002

ASHLEE (SMITH) WILLIAMS | CLASS OF 2006

Ashlee and her husband moved to Atlanta, Georgia for work opportunities in late-2019 and now live in their own home with their two-year-old daughter and two rescued dogs.

I am happily married to my high school sweetheart, Julie (Stone) - also class of 2002 - and we still live here in Southern California with our four kids, dog, cats, fish, rabbits, and chickens. We both are very involved at our church in Burbank, Calvary Bible Church, and the Lord continues to grow us closer to Him through His Word. We are continually learning how to be faithful with what the Lord has entrusted to us, especially in the area of parenting, to teach our children diligently what it means to follow Christ.

CARLI OLSON | CLASS OF 2010

I am blessed to have an amazing career with the United States Space Force! As a Civilian Contract Specialist, I have worked on various satellite systems and rocket launch programs. VCS developed my foundation of hard work and trust in the Lord, helping me reach my goals. Semper Supra!

KIMBERLY (BRAINARD) MARTIN | CLASS OF 2002

I reside in Santa Clarita with my husband and three kids. After being a stay-at-home-mom for almost 14 years, I went back to school to pursue my teaching credential. I am currently graduating with my Masters this spring and am working as a Special Education teacher at Hart High. Many of my goals were because of some the amazing

A LU M N I U P DAT E S

Fall/Winter 2023 | 43

A LU M N I U P DAT E S

JESSIE DOYLE | CLASS OF 2011

Jessie moved from California to Texas with her husband, Kevin, and welcomed her son, Brody, this past June. She is currently working for CBS as the Post-Production Supervisor for CSI: Las Vegas Season 3. She still has family and friends at VCS. Go Crusaders!

IZZY (HUFFMAN) ROSENBERG | CLASS OF 2016

My husband, Dawson Rosenberg, and I are VCS high school sweethearts. Following our time at Village, we both attended PLNU and graduated in 2020. We got married this past July after almost eight years of dating and are now happily living out our coastal dreams in Laguna Beach. Dawson works as a project coordinator with a local custom home builder, while I'm working in event planning and design. We are beyond grateful for Village and the impact it's made on our lives, not only for bringing us together as a couple but for creating a foundation for our faith and community.

We still have close ties to so much of our Village family (pictured) - something we're forever grateful for.

STEVE MARTINEZ | CLASS OF 2011

Steven has been traveling the world, working with the US Navy for the past six years as an aerospace engineer now.

Please send us your updates. weddings, births, graduations, and everything in between. We want to know what’s happeningin your life. Send us your milestones and class note for inclusion in the next issue of the Village Voice.

ALUMNI UPDATES: Submit your information using the ALUMNI UPDATE FORM

44

the Village Voice

NATALIE (GARCIA) MORRIS | CLASS OF 2017

Hello all! I often think of VCS and all of the memories I made growing up there from K-12.

I graduated from APU in 2022 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music and Worship, and I am now working as a Worship Pastor at ONE&ALL Church in San Dimas. I got married in November of 2022 to my husband Garrett, who is a freelance drummer, music director, and barista. God has been doing a lot in our lives over the last few years, and we are excited for the future. Thank you to all of you at VCS who poured into me over the years. You all have a special place in my heart.

Go Crusaders!

JARED DODD | CLASS OF 2020

CRISTIAN INSUA | CLASS OF 2020

I've recently taken a significant step in my real estate career by joining Douglas Elliman, the country's leading luxury residential brokerage. I obtained my real estate license in October of last year and have been deeply committed to growing in this field ever since. My journey began on the baseball diamond, where I honed my dedication and drive. Now, I've transitioned that passion into helping others achieve their dreams of homeownership.

MAKAILA DODD | CLASS OF 2022

Makaila transferring to UC Santa Cruz for her sophomore year to study psychology and continuing to competitively swim.

Jared is finishing his third year in the Navy as an airframer. He recently returned from his first deployment on the USS Nimitz.

READ MORE: VCS a Daily News Readers Choice Best for ninth consecutive year

Fall/Winter 2023 | 45

G R A D UAT I O N R E C A P

Celebrating the Class of 2023 For the third year in a row, the Village Christian Field of Dreams played host to ceremonies honoring our fifth-, eighth-, and twelfthgrade students this past May. From their ccomplishments in the classroom, on stage, and on the field, to the way God has moved in and through them, it was a blessing to celebrate these amazing graduates as they prepared for their next season. Please join us in congratulating these students, many of whom garnered special recognition last school year.

46

the Village Voice

Photo: Blanca Schnobrich

THE CLASS OF 2023 RECEIVED 434 TOTAL ACCEPTANCES TO MORE THAN 140 SCHOOLS ACROSS 30 STATES, EARNING MORE THAN $7.5 MILLION IN SCHOLARSHIPS.

Fall/Winter 2023 | 47

Senior Project Presentation Winners Asher Hansow | VFAME Rachel Lee | MSJ Grayson Echeverry | HE Cole Cacho-Negrete | EGL Jacob Cho | STEM Brook Lord | PFAME Senior Project Presentation Honorable Mentions Sophia Stuart | EGL Michael Martinez | HE Kyle Chapin | VFAME Provost Award For 2023 Michael Martinez | HE 2023 Practicum Point Leader Brook Lord | PFAME National Honor Society Awards Daniel Boyadjian Logan Byeon Cole Cacho-Negrete Jacob Cho David Dykstra Fiona Hemstreet Wenheng Han Rebecca Kim Sujin Kim Justin Lee Luke Lee Rachel Lee Michael Martinez Emily Obeid Heather Ostic Rachel Rosenberg Esther Shin Angelina Sfeir Ashley Thompson Inga Tiraturyan Jade Wear Madison Soforenko

Senior Athlete of the Year CSF Sealbearer Delaney Konjoyan Bijan Beers Rhett Gordon Rose Buchak Layla Cates Student Athlete of the Year Jacob Cho Jason de Moura Melia Kaszacs David Dykstra Kathryn Everett All-Academic Rhett Gordon CIF Student Athletes Wenheng Han Mary Corbett

Fiona Hemstreet Nicholas John Nicholas John Jonathan Kim Booster Club Scholarships Rebecca Kim Sujin Kim Madison Rudolph Delaney Konjoyan Kyle McCollum Justin Lee Luke Lee PTF Vocational Scholarship Rachel Lee Megan Chapin Michael Martinez Juan Valderrama Kyle McCollum Kelsey Moren-Callabresi Dave Wilson Elijah Ngai Leadership Award Cade Nightingale Vanessa Nitz Elijah Ngai Emily Obeid Alberto Ojeda Burbank Police Foundation Heather Ostic Matthew Pavelka Zack Romberger Scholarship Award Rachel Rosenberg Rhett Gordon Angelina Sfeir Madison Soforenko Burbank Sunrise Rotary Sophia Stuart Jack Forsch Ashley Thompson Memorial Scholarships Jade Wear Natalie Gurlekian CSF Scholarships Sophia Stuart Rebecca Kim Rhett Gordon Burbank Sunrise Rotary TiJuan Lumpkin, Jr. E lizabeth Carletta Sujin Kim Memorial Scholarship Delaney Konjoyan A Perfect Score of 800 on one or more Christopher Oliver SAT Sub Sections Memorial Scholarships Rebecca Kim Tyler Ferguson Rachel Rosenberg

High School GPA of 4.0 or Higher Natalie Asatryan Bijan Beers Daniella Cabrera Cole Cacho-Negrete Layla Cates Jacob Cho Yoonsik Cho Katalina Considine-Rickard Mary Corbett Charliz Cruz Jason de Moura Sabrina del Rey David Dykstra Grayson Echeverry Sofia Gallegos-Valerio Wenheng Han Asher Hansow Carter Hastings Fiona Hemstreet Nicholas John Layla Jones-Moreno Melia Kaszacs Jonathan Kim Rebecca Kim Sujin Kim Delaney Konjoyan Luke Lee Rachel Lee Chaehyun Lim Zijing Lin Junjian Liu Michael Martinez Angelina Mendoza Kenneth Min Diego Morales Kelsey Moren-Callabresi Cade Nightingale Heather Ostic Shiva Ram Zack Romberger Rachel Rosenberg Terrance Ross Madison Rudolph Angelina Sfeir Esther Shin Madison Soforenko Sophia Stuart Owen Swanson Ashley Thompson Jade Wear

Fifth Grade Academic Scholarships Renee Oh Avison Aust Sophie Messineo

Middle School Crusaders of the Year Abigail Zavala (8) Kevin Fisher (8) Maggie Neumann (7) Michael Khazhakyan (7) Lauryn Treat (6) Austin Wolff (6)

Crusader of the Year Scholarship Ilene Henry Layla Cates Memorial Scholarship Kyle Chapin Rachel Lee

Fifth Grade Academic Scholarships Victoria Ohanganian Aneya Saied Mason Yoo

48

the Village Voice

Middle School Students of the Year Lucy Robel (8) Noah Choe (8) Peighton Mikels (7) Dylan Karaim (7) Erin Reynolds (6) Asher Lee (6)

E D U C AT I O N U P DAT E

Village Christian School has been accredited by Western Association of Schools and Colleges since the 1981-1982 school year.

This accreditation serves as an academic validation both on campus and in the eyes of surrounding schools – K-12s and higher education institutions alike.

After completing its most recent self-study and visit from WASC, VCS is on track to secure its next accreditation term, according to Associate of Head of School for Academic Life and WASC Self-Study Coordinator Ray Endacott. The Commission will meet in late January to formalize its final report.

Endacott and his Academic Life team guided Village through the accreditation process once again, and he provided the following update about our successful visit in November: Every six years, we go through a self-study process that culminates in a visit by a WASC committee. To prepare our report, we analyze progress on our action plans from the previous self-study and compile all pertinent data. We share that data with faculty and staff and assign faculty to respond to specific questions about Governance, Curriculum/Instruction/Assessment, and Environment. Giving these focus groups time to gather, discuss, and analyze evidence that would help answer these questions is how we spent essentially all professional development time during the 2022-2023 school year. Based on the findings of these focus groups, we identified strengths and areas for growth.

Over the summer, the Leadership Team refined these areas and developed action plans to address areas of concern. We finished our final report in September and submitted it to WASC and the members of our Visiting Committee. They spent four days with us in November, meeting with various groups, and working on a report of their own.

The Committee was effusive in their praise, which was shared at the exit meeting with the school community. They added strengths to our list of schoolwide strengths in their report.

Most importantly, they didn’t identify any additional areas for growth beyond what we had identified. In other words, the committee verified that we had done a thorough and complete job in our self-study and had made plans that will empower us to continuously improve.

I fully expect a six-year term of accreditation, which is the maximum. All schools write a progress report in the third year of their term, and most schools also have a short visit in the third year to review their progress report. This is the term we’ve had the past two cycles.

One aspect of our school culture (which the committee verified as a strength) is how much we use data to help support our decision-making and school improvement culture. Each year, we take the results of our fall testing, analyze them, and share them with faculty. We will spend our second semester professional development time implementing strategies to help us improve gaps identified by the fall testing results. This annual cycle of improvement based on analyzing data makes the WASC self-study just a slightly more robust process than what we do every year. As we accomplish our action plans, we will be taking steps that will help our next self-study (in the 2029-2030 school year) be even smoother.

Fall/Winter 2023 | 49

A N N UA L F U N D U P DAT E

50

the Village Voice

Fall/Winter 2023 | 51

ALUMNI WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU Please send us your updates. weddings, births, graduations, and everything in between, we want to know what’s happening in your life.

Send us your milestones and class notes for inclusion in the next issue of the Village Voice.

Submit your information using the ALUMNI UPDATE FORM.

www.villagechristian.org