Woodcrest Christian School Generations Magazine 2023

WOODCREST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

GENERATIONS

TH

2022

G E N E R AT I O N S 2 0 2 3

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T S 06

R O YA L S I N AC T I O N

08

A PA R E N T ’ S P E R S P E C T I V E

10

TEACHING FROM EXPERIENCE

12

M A K I N G T H E I R WAY

16

C E L E B R AT I N G 7 5 : B E S T Y E A R E V E R

18

A MILESTONE MOMENT

20

75 YEARS IN 75 PHOTOS

22

G AT H E R I N G TO G E T H E R

24

A L U M N I : T R AV I S G I L B E R T ‘ 0 2

28

ALUMNI: HANNAH SEABERT ‘13

30

M A K E A N I M PAC T

WO O D C R E S T C H R I S T I A N S C H O O L T r a n s i t i o n a l K i n d e r g a r t e n t h ro u g h 1 2 t h G r a d e

1 8 4 0 1 Va n B u r e n B l vd . | R i ve r s i d e , C a l i fo r n i a | 9 2 5 0 8 (951) 780-2010 Middle/High School | (951) 686-1818 Elementary School

Pa s s i o n a t e ly P r e p a r i n g St u d e n t s t o I m p a c t t h e Wo r l d f o r C h r i s t

SOME THINGS DON’T CHANGE

While many things have changed over the years at Woodcrest Christian, some things never change.

Traditions ebb and flow, campuses modernize, and students grow and graduate, but the mission of Woodcrest Christian remains unchanged—to glorify God by pursuing excellence in Christcentered academics so that we can passionately prepare students to impact the world for Christ.

GENERATIONS 2023 • 03

A COMPLETE COLLECTION: This photo features all 45 volumes of Woodcrest Christian yearbooks, starting with 1978 all the way up to 2022—a treasure trove of memories, history and people.

04 • WCSS.ORG

A LETTER FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT

LOVING GOD AND LOVING PEOPLE A YEAR OF CELEBRATION As we celebrate our 75th anniversary of ministry, I am constantly reminded of God’s incredible faithfulness and provision. From that first class of seven students in 1948 to the over 1,200 students we have today, God has provided His resources, people, and protection again and again. And why is that? I firmly believe that our longevity is completely grounded in our obedience to Christ and His eternal Truth. Deuteronomy 7:9 says it well, “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations…”

God’s faithfulness is also evident in the thousands of students who have filled our classrooms. Year after year, God does a mighty work in the hearts of our students as they learn about Him and commit their lives to Jesus Christ. That commitment carries forth into their lives beyond the school as they take their academic preparation, grounded in God’s Truth, and embark on their ministry to the world around them. Whether it be at work, in their communities, or in their own families, Woodcrest Christian Royals are passionately prepared to impact the world for Christ.

As you read through this edition of Generations, I hope you see as I do that “Loving God and Loving People” is what it’s all about.

Blessings in Christ,

GENERATIONS 2023 • 05

CAMPUS HIGHLIGHTS

ROYALS IN ACTION A DAY IN THE LIFE OF ROYALS: TK-12th Grade Life on Woodcrest Christian campuses is vibrant! A variety of opportunities and activities provide experiences for students above and beyond their academics that enhance their spiritual growth, expand their learning, and create lifelong memories. Enjoy these snapshots capturing a part of the fun and excitement.

1.

1.

2.

3.

06 • WCSS.ORG

1.

1. WOODCREST CHRISTIAN DAY SCHOOL Our WCDS students get to take part in a wide variety of activities and hands-on experiences! One such event is a science and technology conference for fifth graders to try their hands at numerous science and engineering experiments, spurring on a love of the sciences. Another exciting trip is the fifth grade tour of the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, with a highlight tour of the presidential helicopter. For fourth graders, a tour of the beautiful Mission San Juan Capistrano is exciting and

is usually topped off with the highlyanticipated Metrolink train ride to and from the Mission. Our smallest Royals, our TK-ers, get to take their first bus ride ‘round and round’ the parking lot for their at-home “field trip.” And the pumpkin patch comes to campus for first graders! Students get to choose a pumpkin, taste pumpkin treats, and much more.

These are just a few of the fun and exciting days experienced by our WCDS students!

2.

WOODCREST CHRISTIAN MIDDLE SCHOOL

If it’s happening in Middle School, it’s going to be fun! New principal Mrs. Jamie Firetag and her team of middle school teachers have embraced the motto of “Work Hard.

Play Hard.” in all that they do! From giant 3-D cell project sculptures rolling into Life Science class to the upcoming CivQuest projects depicting ancient civilizations, students stay on track with their studies and have fun both in and out of the classroom. Serving others is a hallmark of middle school life, and students learn to serve and receive the joy of helping others when they visit the San Bernardino City

Mission to help pack food for the homeless for the holidays, serve on the Service Crew, participate in the Chapel Worship Team, or voluntarily participate in a weekend-long missions trip to Calexico, California.

More fun and learning is to be had in MiddleFest classes, including an entrepreneurial class, art class, fitness course, and STEAM central class.

Tack on a few Spirit Weeks with an on-campus retreat and culminating Class Color Wars, exciting pep rallies, and wacky dress up days, and you’ll be starting to get just a taste of life at Woodcrest Christian Middle School.

3. WOODCREST CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL From worship nights to glow-inthe-dark dodgeball, early morning practices on the soccer team to late night drama performances, life in high school at Woodcrest Christian is full of opportunity. Seniors start the year off with a three-day retreat to the mountains to bond as a class and prepare their hearts for their future.

See You At the Pole, a nationwide day of prayer, brings together our school community for an early morning of prayer gathered around the flagpole.

Talented trombone players,

violinist, flutists, and more work hard to perform at community events and numerous concerts throughout the year while actors and actresses endlessly rehearse for incredible standing-ovation-worthy performances. Chess Club, AudioVisual Club, Investment Club, discipleship groups, mission teams and many other offerings allow students to further develop their interests, to serve others, and to create treasured moments of their high school careers.

GENERATIONS 2023 • 07

A PARENT’S PERSPECTIVE AURELIO MELENDREZ: WOODCREST CHRISTIAN DAY SCHOOL PARENT Aurelio Melendrez is father to a current fourth grader and sixth grader who started attending Woodcrest Christian in 2020. Aurelio is a Riverside native who served with the Riverside Police Department for over 15 years and is currently a pastor at Sandals Church.

I

n 2020 Woodcrest Christian parent Aurelio Melendrez came to a crossroads about where his two children would attend elementary school the following year. Previously, Aurelio’s children had attended a local elementary school where he shared that they were doing well academically and had found a good community. Once the pandemic hit, however, and public schools moved to online learning,

08 • WCSS.ORG

Aurelio says, “The sense of community was completely lost. Not only was the in-person aspect of learning gone, but the lack of foundational core values being taught was brought to light.”

Recognizing that the post-pandemic public school was not ideal for his children, Aurelio and his wife began considering a change. “Both my wife and I had an urge to change our

childrens’ schooling situation. We both began praying about the decision to move our children to Woodcrest Christian.”

In making the decision, Aurelio recounts his first time stepping into the office at Woodcrest Christian Day School. “From the first moment, it truly felt like home. I appreciate that Miss Leach ‘runs a tight ship,’” he says

smiling, “and between her and all the teachers I am confident that my kids are being taught well and in love.”

Now two years into the switch Aurelio reflects back and shares, “The past two years have been just what my kids have needed. I know we made the right choice. Education is important, but the environment of learning has been the true draw for me and my wife.”

Having attended public school in his younger years, Aurelio originally thought he wanted his children in public school as an opportunity to be around nonbelievers to share the Gospel, but now says, “One of the best parts of being at a Christian school is that my children are surrounded with teachers and peers who share the same values that just aren’t present in public schools anymore.

There’s still the opportunity to minister because not every kid nor every family knows Jesus. But times have changed— the protection and foundation of Christian values is lost in public school.”

Aurelio recalls memories from his high school athletics experiences and how they would say the Lord’s Prayer before football games. He shares, “Not everyone on the team came from a Christian home, but just the practice of reciting the Lord’s Prayer was a shared respect that instituted a foundation of faith among the players. Practices like this have disappeared from public school.”

Auerelio shares further that even little practices like the “red and yellow” flags in the WCDS cafeteria­—indicating either silence or that the kids can whisper—demonstrate the values of respect for authority. “This is just one example of students learning values and practices which put the responsibility of respect on the individual, not on others to do the right thing,” he says. “Although some might think this is strict, the discipline is a huge positive at Woodcrest

Christian Day School. Discipline is now unique in our society,” he explains, “but it’s important. Our children are daily being taught how to properly be a part of a community. All kids, at times, need to be corrected, and being corrected in a loving and safe environment allows for an amazing space to learn, grow, and be molded in ways that will serve them as they grow older.”

As Aurelio’s oldest will be in middle school next year, they look forward to continuing at Woodcrest Christian.

Aurelio says, “We’ve heard a lot from families who have gone through Woodcrest Christian who have shared how ready their kids were for college and for life. This is the reason we love Woodcrest Christian.” Aurelio’s son has recently been invited by cross country Coach Ben Nunnally to come run with the junior high team. This opportunity is one unique to a community who is for each other, and foundational in Christ.

Overall, Aurelio shares that looking back the decision now seems like a no‑brainer and, as a parent, is dreaming of how his kids will continue to thrive at Woodcrest Christian in the future.

One of the best parts of being at a Christian school is that my children are surrounded with teachers and peers who share the same values that just aren’t present in public schools anymore.”

TEACHER SPOTLIGHT

TEACHING FROM EXPERIENCE GABE ESTRADA | FRESHMAN AND SENIOR BIBLE TEACHER Challenging students daily to live for Jesus, Gabe Estrada’s Bible classes are as pertinent to him as they are to his students. Sharing his personal experiences and encounters with the Lord in his daily life (where he is father of eight children!), Mr. Estrada’s Bible classes are filled with a unique depth of knowledge and insight, helping students navigate the current culture.

S

pend a few moments with high school Bible teacher Mr. Gabe Estrada, and you’ll find he can’t help but impart little gems of wisdom during a conversation. While he doesn’t intentionally try to, the gems naturally appear. It’s a gift he has which is shared with his freshman and senior students on a daily basis.

For someone who was terrified of public speaking, Mr. Estrada was far from thinking he’d become a teacher someday. “I was headed for a career in law enforcement when pastors and mentors at my church affirmed teaching/preaching as one of my spiritual gifts. They saw God doing something in me that I did not see,” he says sincerely. Now, after teaching for more than seven years, Mr. Estrada says he wouldn’t want it any other way. “I get so much joy and contentment from teaching,” he says. The contentment, he explains, comes from being able to have concentrated time in studying God’s Word as he prepares each class lesson.

“It does something within me as I spend time in God’s Word, and it helps build relationships with my students as they see and feel what I’ve been seeing

10 • WCSS.ORG

and feeling. Together, we both get to experience God that way.”

One of the special moments in the classroom is when students have asked about a spiritual topic and he has seen the transformative reaction take place in their reflective state. “Recently, my students asked me about prayer. I love being able to inform them from scripture that is not only a textbook answer but one from experience.

Students don’t seem to fully grasp the power of prayer as they share they don’t always see their prayers answered. From my life experiences, I’m able to give them examples. I love seeing in their faces the realization that this is not a God on paper—He can be known and desires to be known to us.”

Mr. Estrada began teaching at Woodcrest Christian in 2015, after which he took a position teaching at California Baptist University to pursue his Ph.D. in Biblical Studies. “While I was teaching at CBU, it was really neat to see former Woodcrest Christian students pursuing their degree at CBU and taking my classes there. It was neat to see their growth and walk with God

and witness how the Holy Spirit was working in their lives.” In 2021, the Lord called him back to Woodcrest Christian where he now teaches high school senior classes, Advanced and Honors Judeo-Christian Philosophy and a freshmen Bible class, Advanced Christian Living.

As evident in Gabe’s ability to relate to and connect with young people, the Lord prepared him in significant ways.

“Sometimes God makes himself known to us through tragedy,” he shares. From the divorce of his parents at age seven, to the unexpected passing of his older brother, Mr. Estrada says, “If you know the reality of our fallen world is true, then the answer to the problem must

Hello!

ESTRADA

FAMILY

Natalee, Zoë, Hazel, Amariah, Andew, Gabe, Sophia, Gabriel, Joy, and Simon

also be true.” During his senior year of high school, Mr. Estrada was faced with that very choice. “I remember I had just come home from football practice and a team from my church was there. They shared the Gospel with me and clearly laid out the choice of either accepting or rejecting the Lord. That night, I fell on my knees. I asked the Lord if He was real to make Himself known to me.

He did, in fact, in the way that I felt about the things of God. For instance, I eagerly wanted to attend church every Sunday—without the common probing and bribing of my parents! I strangely wanted to read the Bible every day and to pray. The first words of Jesus’ ministry were to repent, and our first moment towards God is in our hearts, not our minds. We can try to explain or justify the Bible, but factual knowledge is different than relational knowledge, and the Lord wants our heart.”

Sixteen years ago, Mr. Estrada married and now has eight kids ranging in age from 14 to one years old. With five girls and three boys, there is never a dull moment in the Estrada household. Mr. Estrada recognizes that this is where God continues to challenge him the most. “One of the biggest things that has shaped me is marriage and raising kids. You realize how selfish and what a sinner you are,” he says smiling. “You realize you’re not seeking the interest of the other person or other family members when you live in community daily. You realize your own vices and your need for forgiveness. It’s very humbling.”

It’s this same challenge that he poses to his students as well. As students interact daily in community with each other, Mr. Estrada says, “I want for them to learn and know the love of God that is expressed through a covenant community. It’s what Christ calls us to in John 13:34, ‘A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.’ If they can experience in the classroom the

love of God, not only from me but from other students through their interactions working together, then the goal is accomplished. Christ has given us our circumstances (our families, our friends, our community) for our own sake…for our own sanctification in order to make us more like Him.” Looking ahead, Mr. Estrada says it’s more important than ever that students understand who God is.

“It’s foundational for them,” he says.

“When I look back at my notes from teaching here in 2015, there were topics of discussion that came up including gender identity, homosexuality, etc.

In just seven years, those topics have permeated and changed our culture.

In my notes now, I’m addressing transhumanism, our sinful desire to be superhuman, connected through technology. The world continues to tell our young people that they’re not good enough as they are. I challenge them the same as I challenge myself: to daily renounce the world in our Christianity.

I want them to remember Christ’s call to first repent and to attach ourselves to Christ and detach from the world. That’s my hope for my students.”

Mr. Estrada explains things incredibly well. He shows us the validity of God—how God interacts with the world, and how He is present, faithful, and loyal.” - Megan Bachetti, high school senior and current student in Gabe Estrada’s Bible class

Making Their Way

WOODCREST CHRISTIAN STUDENTS AND THEIR PURSUIT OF THE FUTURE

The interests and endeavors of Woodcrest Christian students are diverse and interesting! Our high school Guidance Counselor, Mrs. Kim Milton, gets to share in the exciting paths the students pursue as she meets with them to provide assistance in their course selections and college application processes. We recently asked her to tell us about a handful of students already pursuing their dreams, some who have overcome significant challenges, and others impacted by experiences on campus that are shaping their futures.

1.

1. JAMES ALDACO | CLASS OF 2023

You may have seen and heard James’ creative work while at a few events

12 • WCSS.ORG

on campus this year. Four years ago, he started mixing his own music and DJ-ing in the community for grad parties, weddings, and school events.

His creative efforts have turned into a lucrative side business as he wraps up his senior year as a “lifer” (attending K-12) at Woodcrest Christian. “I want to get good at graphic design, photography and video,” he says, ”so I can someday create music videos and album covers, and make my own

music.” James says the community of teachers and small-school environment of Woodcrest Christian has helped him make connections and has encouraged 3. his art form. “The teachers here are so involved and compassionate. They know everyone. They’ve helped me with ideas and have taught me to have fun with my art, do more of it, and appreciate and grow from it.” James intends to go to CBU to pursue a degree in graphic design.

STUDENT STORIES 2. LOGAN MICHELS | CLASS OF 2023

It may be surprising to know that Logan Michels didn’t fret when he lost a month’s worth of his after-school job income in one day in the stock market.

“It’s just one of those things,” he says

smiling. It was in the heart of the pandemic during Logan’s sophomore year that he started learning to invest in the stock market. “I was working at Subway Restaurants, getting paychecks, and I had nowhere to spend it,” he recalls. “I had to beg my dad to open an account. I had been watching stock trade videos on YouTube, and I really wanted to start investing.” Logan has done independent stock trading, day trading, bought into crypto currencies and more. “I failed a few times, but I learned from it, and my portfolio is doing really good,” he says. Logan is currently captain of the Varsity Boys

Basketball team and Student Council Vice President, both of which have helped him recognize that he enjoys helping people and being part of a team. “On the basketball team, I like how we can openly talk about God. It has changed my reasoning for wanting to win. It’s not about trying to beat the other team so much as it is trying to get far enough ahead that all the players get a chance to play,” he explains.

Logan’s goal is to continue to try and be an example to his younger siblings, and he hopes to pay for college with his earnings as he pursues a career in finance and entrepreneurship.

3. JOSHUA SANCHEZ | CLASS OF 2025

Josh Sanchez is coming up the ranks in more ways than one. While only a sophomore, his grit and determination are evident in his work ethic and desire to lead. Since he was seven years old, he has been part of a local Boy Scout troop, earning the Life Scout ranking

his eighth grade year. During his ninth grade year, he joined the United States Naval Sea Cadet Corps. which gives young Americans skills, knowledge, and confidence through an amazing variety of training opportunities and work in teams in a disciplined environment. That same year, his parents opened a restaurant. “During the summer of my ninth grade year, I worked 13-14 hour days for two weeks straight to help with the restaurant opening,” says Josh. “I know I can always do more work or work harder, but that summer taught me that I have to make time for my priorities. It was around then that I really started reading my Bible more. At church camp that summer, the question posed to me was,

‘What’s next, what can you do for the Lord?’ so I really started thinking about how I should be spending my time,” he explains. Entering his sophomore year, Josh has continued with the Sea Cadets and joined the Student Ministry Team on campus. He is part of two student-led discipleship groups, leading one and participating in the other. He is also headed for Belize during Spring Break on his first missions trip with the school. While a lot more lies ahead in Josh’s high school career, his presence on campus as a caring, helpful, and reliable individual is undeniable. He looks forward to pursuing a business degree with a minor in theological studies in the future.

GENERATIONS 2023 • 13

STUDENT STORIES

5. KATIE PALMATIER | CLASS OF 2023

After going on her first missions trip with the school to Kodiak, Alaska in 2021, a passion for travel and doing mission work overseas took hold of Katie. Looking to combine her love of research and serving others, Katie

is determined to attend Rochester Institute of Technology in New York when she graduates to study biotechnology, go into research of medicines and vaccine treatments, and then travel overseas to work at a research institute or local hospital.

“Research intrigues me because it’s always changing, and there’s so much research that needs to be done. My trip to Kodiak inspired a love of service, and had a big impact on me. So I’m hoping to combine the two, but I’m open to wherever the Lord leads me,” she says. In the meantime, as a Senior, Katie is busy on campus with multiple AP and Honors classes. She

is an accomplished violinist having played for ten years; plays multiple instruments in the school band including violin, oboe, viola, piano, and bass, and is often a soloist in choir.

She is co-leader of the Chapel Band this year, part of the Speech & Debate club, and has performed in multiple drama productions as both an actor and musician in the pit orchestra.

She is also team leader at her afterschool job at Del Taco and a worship team leader at her church. More than anything, she is looking forward to her next missions trip, this time as part of a team headed to Belize during spring break.

4. WILL ANKLAM | CLASS OF 2023

From third grade to eighth grade, Will Anklam estimates he was only in class about 35% of each school year.

Battling a serious health issue starting at age nine, Will’s ability to attend school was severely compromised.

After starting at Woodcrest Christian in seventh grade, Will did his best to be at school—or to self-study when

14 • WCSS.ORG

he was out—until he was hospitalized in December of his eighth grade year.

The likelihood of experiencing his high school years in person looked bleak.

Fast forward four years, and Will has successfully navigated high school, feeling better each year and back to attending school regularly by his junior year where he earned a 4.8 G.P.A. “I had to learn to rely on the Lord,” he says, “knowing that I can’t do this on my own. I’ve been sick for eight years, but God knows what He’s doing and He strengthened me in my worst moments.” Will is now in his senior year, carrying a heavy load of five AP classes while ranking in the top 10 of his class academically. As someone who could have used numerous excuses to avoid schoolwork, Will instead chose to work hard despite his circumstances

and has set his sights on becoming an engineer. “I think God used this to make me a better student,” he says.

“Since I missed so much class time, I had to self-study, and I developed really good study habits.” Will’s health not only impacted his time at Woodcrest Christian, but a powerful moment came when Will recognized how the Lord was using his suffering to impact others. “My brother shared his testimony while on a missions trip, and he talked about my health issues. There were two boys listening to him who also had a brother that was struggling.

They were impacted by what my brother shared and they told him afterwards that his story helped them to understand Jesus better. It really struck me knowing that God is able to use my suffering to affect others.”

REMARKABLE ROYALS: Junior Nathan Luce (left) and Sophomore Eyan Turk (right) compete on the Woodcrest Christian Varsity Cross Country team. The team took twelfth overall, and Eyan Turk won third place at the 2022 CIF State Championship in Fresno, California.

GENERATIONS 2023 • 15

TH

A MILESTONE ANNIVERSARY DESERVES A SPECIAL CELEBRATION It takes a lot to last 75 years! It is with great pleasure that we look back on our school’s past, because our journey has always been guided by God’s faithfulness. Back in 1948, a tenacious grandmother named Matilda Randall founded our elementary school with just seven students and four unsalaried teachers.

Matilda has been described by those who worked and served alongside her as bold yet humble.

Her confidence rested in the Lord, and her heart overflowed with love for children. She was determined, hardworking, and capable of many things. One particular photo depicts her fun and endearing character with her infectious smile while she teaches a woodworking shop class to students in the early 1960s. She was adept, creative, and fully reliant on the Lord.

What would Matilda think of the school and what it has become today? What would she think of its two campuses, its steady enrollment, and the number of lives that have been changed because of its existence?

While there’s no way of knowing what Matilda might think if she were here today, one thing is for sur­e—the school was founded on God’s unchanging Word, and 75 years later we’re on the same mission to never waiver from God’s Truth, pursuing excellence in Christ-centered academics while giving God the glory all along the way.

It seems safe to say that Matilda would be overjoyed to see how God has preserved and protected His school, brought it through seven decades of cultural changes, and is still using it to influence and prepare the next generation of believers. And for those great milestones, we celebrate!

GENERATIONS 2023 • 17

75 YEARS

A Milestone Moment

KICKING OFF THE 75 th YEAR WITH UNFORGETTABLE GATHERINGS

1.

BACK-TO-SCHOOL BASH It was FUN, FUN, FUN at the RUN, RUN, RUN, kicking off the 2022 school year and our 75th anniversary at the Back-to-School Bash and Color Dash. More than 1,200 students and families came out to enjoy BBQ, sink teachers in the dunk tank, play games, and run across campus while getting covered in color! Scan the QR code to watch the video capturing all the events and epic color run!

2. ROYALS LEGACY GALA

The 4th annual Royals Legacy Gala was celebrated this year! Supporters donated generously to the Royals Financial Aid Fund, which goes toward student scholarships for families in financial need. As a reflection of God’s faithfulness, this year raised the most funds ever at $130,000. We are thankful and look forward to seeing how God will continue to impact lives in the years ahead. Scan the QR code to watch the video with highlights of the night and see the incredible vintage cars on display at the event.

3. GRANDPARENTS DAY

The first Grandparents Day was held in October at Woodcrest Christian Day School! Several hundred grandparents enjoyed a program including music, sharing, and an entertaining video. Scan the QR code to watch the video and see the darndest things kids say about their grandparents!

th 4. 75 DAY OF SCHOOL

Our elementary students love a chance to celebrate, and they made the most of the 75th day of school! The first 75 students to school received a donut, there was a 75-second Hula Hoop contest, ice cream was served for $.75 (and it wasn’t even Friday!), Rowdy­—our fearless mascot—came to visit, and all those who wore their school shirt got an extra recess which was pretty much everybody!

18 • WCSS.ORG

GENERATIONS 2023 • 19

75 YEARS

75 Years in 75 Photos WOODCREST CHRISTIAN THROUGH THE YEARS 1.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

A GRANDMA’S HEART A desire to provide a place for children to learn about the Lord fueled grandmother Matilda Randall to start a private, Christian school when she was 58 years old.

Her grandson, Tony, was one of the first kindergarteners when Riverside Christian Day School opened in 1948.

FROM CROPS TO KIDS In 1953, funds for the purchase of a permanent location on Arlington Ave. for Riverside Christian Day School come from a mortgage that a school board member took out on his home and from the sale of a crop of barley grown on the site.

IN THE MIDDLE OF NOWHERE A 20-acre poultry farm is purchased in 1973 for the new 7th-12th grade campus on the outskirts of Riverside amid miles of orange groves in what was then rural Woodcrest, California.

THE CHOPPING BLOCK FOR DAVE

7. HOW TIMES HAVE CHANGED

In a letter to parents in October of 1963, the school’s Board president announced a tuition increase of $4.00 effective January 1, 1964, raising tuition to $25 per month per child.

8. CHAMPS AGAIN!

Coach Glenn Prater’s baseball team celebrated their CIF Championship in 2000.

9. A CONCRETE TRADITION

Every year since 1978, it has been tradition for the graduating seniors to sign their names in wet concrete to leave a permanent mark of their presence on campus.

10. ON A WINNING STREAK

In 2014, volleyball Coach Charlie Ricards culminated his coaching career with another league win, but also a streak of 105 straight victories.

A classic moment came in 1998 when the JV Boys Basketball team earned a perfect season and were given the sacred opportunity to shave the chops off their coach, Dave Burdett.

11. LEARNING TO SERVE

“MAGNIFICENT SEVEN”

12. THE SHOW MUST GO ON

The first class of Woodcrest Christian seniors, nicknamed ‘The Magnificent Seven,’ graduates in 1978.

HOME OF THE ROYALS The Royals Pavilion construction is completed in 1996.

Fun fact: The class of 1997 was the only high school graduation that took place in the Royals Pavilion since it was built. All other classes since then have been too large to hold the ceremony in the gym.

20 • WCSS.ORG

In places like Central America, WCS student missionaries have served both the Lord and local inhabitants for over two decades.

The 2020 COVID-19 pandemic made things very atypical. Postponed to July, the Class of 2020 graduation ceremony required families to gather in socially-distant groups outdoors to watch the graduates walk across the stage.

1.

1.

2.

3.

4.

6.

5.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

Visit 75YEARS.WCSS.ORG to learn more about the 75 year history of Woodcrest Christian.

GENERATIONS 2023 • 21

WOODCREST CHRISTIAN ALUMNI

GATHERING TOGETHER Woodcrest Christian alumni reconnect through a variety of fun gatherings, including class reunions, the firstever Drama Encore Performance, alumni volleyball and soccer matches, Homecoming games, and the alumni BBQ. This year, we welcomed 81 new Royals into the Woodcrest Christian alumni family from the Class of 2021.

CLASS REUNIONS Woodcrest Christian class of 2012 celebrated their ten year class reunion! Out of the 77 alumni, 25 made it out to the reunion and had a night of sharing stories, introducing spouses, and even children.

DRAMA ENCORE PERFORMANCE Over 20 alumni returned to the stage and performed songs from nine different musicals from 2015-2022. The show brought a packed house full of parents, alumni, teachers and guests who got to relive the moments with students from each musical, and what an encore it was!

VOLLEYBALL MATCH We had a great night with some of our boys volleyball alumni! Officiated by Mr. Burdett, the victory goes to our 18 alumni who showed up to compete against our Varsity Boys Volleyball team! A special recognition goes to the seven alumni who played on Coach Ricards’ 2014 team who were a part of securing a remarkable 105 consecutive match winning record.

22 • WCSS.ORG

ALUMNI

ALUMNI BBQ The 5th Annual Alumni Family BBQ was a fun time of food, games and fellowship, and a great way to beat the heat. We had alumni in attendance ranging from the classes of 1979 to 2021! Pony rides and a petting zoo brought many alumni families together. The family picnic-style event is a great way for alumni to revisit campus, see old friends, and visit with past teachers. Join us next year—the Alumni BBQ is held annually on the second Saturday in July.

SPIRIT BUS IS ROLLING IN “I remember taking that bus;” “Oh, the twinky bus;” “Did we really drive to games in that thing?” All of these quotes are shared sentiments surrounding Woodcrest Christian’s oldest bus. With technicalities making it no longer street operable, we decided to transform it into what is now called the “Spirit Bus.” Look for it at upcoming events!

UPCOMING EVENTS SPRING 2023 • January 28 | Homecoming • April 15 | 75th Anniversary Jubilee • April 27, 29 & May 4, 5, 6 | Spring Musical - The Sound of Music • May 25 | 12th Grade Graduation Ceremony

GENERATIONS 2023 • 23

2002 ALUMNI

TRAVIS GILBERT This year at the 4th Annual Royals Legacy Gala, we invited alumnus Travis Gilbert (‘02) to share his story. His speech encourages future generations of Royals as well as demonstrates the wonders of God’s faithfulness as it relates to his personal experience at Woodcrest Christian and the financial aid gifts that made it possible.

I

never thought a building would have such an emotional meaning for me.

However, the Charles O. White Pavilion holds a deep significance for me and my family. Who is Charles White? I don’t know, I never met him. I just know that he died unexpectedly, surrounded by his friends and his personal community of believers. I had been told stories about his success in business, how he was a great man, a great father, and a great husband. As far as my story goes, I just know that he lived as a follower of Christ and passed away in the summer of 1994.

So, how do I remember at age 39, specifically what happened to me in the summer of 1994?

Well, it was the summer that my brother Eric Gilbert joined the United States military in the Air Force. My brother was a gifted athlete, and he was definitely the smartest man that I knew, and he was my mentor. Even despite a seven year age gap, he was my friend. In 1994, my brother left home for a lifelong career in the Air Force, while I was just ten years old. My mother worked at Professional

Communications Network (PCN) with my aunt. I went to public school. I was thankfully on summer break, and I was reconciling myself to life with my brother in college. We attended Catholic church every Sunday. We knew who Jesus was, we knew all the stories. We did what we were supposed to do, and we tried to do the right thing because it was the right thing to do, hoping that someday doing the right thing and being a good person would be rewarded with an eternity in heaven.

It was also the summer of 1994 that my mom’s boss, Charles O. White, died. Being that my aunt had worked at PCN the longest, she was adamant that my mom attend the funeral with her. My mom only worked there for about five months and did not really have a close relationship with her boss.

So reluctantly, my mom went to the funeral with my aunt. This was not like any other funeral that my mom had been to. She heard who Jesus was. She realized what his saving work on the cross truly meant, and that the road to heaven wasn’t paved with good works, but instead with the friendship and relationship with the Savior of Jesus Christ. That summer day in 1994, my mom, Rhonda Gilbert, accepted the Lord at Charles O. White’s funeral service, held inside this very gym.

got to see believers live out the Great Commission in real time. I saw people like Randy and Phyllis Thompson and several others pour love and attention into my parents’ lives, walking alongside them to grow in understanding of the character of Jesus Christ and assuring them of their salvation.

That same summer, my family learned about Riverside Christian Day School.

I knew it was just a brown building that we had driven by several times before, but I didn’t truly understand the impact and what it represented to me until recently. I knew from eavesdropping on my parents’ conversations that it was an expensive private school. Despite the diligent hard work of my father, it was most likely not an option for me.

It was at this moment that we learned about the word faith. I realized then that I truly had very little faith in anything.

I remember being extremely frustrated when I was told I had to study for Riverside Christian Day School’s entry test. I don’t like studying. I remember yelling at my mom, “I’m not going to that stupid school anyway!” I was wrong.

It was very shortly after those words where God taught me the meaning of faith. The testing process immediately challenged me academically. While I was taking the test, Randy Thompson, the principal of the Day School at the time, asked my mom if she would like me to go to RCDS. She said, “Of course, but we’re not going to be able to afford the tuition.” Randy asked if she would be willing to pray about me attending. Neither my mom nor my family had ever prayed for anything like money before, but my mom agreed to pray. A few weeks after that test, Randy Thompson called my mom and told her that someone had paid my tuition in full for fifth grade. Never in Gilbert family history have we experienced such an overwhelming amount of undeserved love from anyone, or so we thought.

See, year after year, my Woodcrest Christian School bill was paid in full by someone else. Eight years in a row, every year someone paid the price for me in full. I didn’t think I was worth the amount of money that this person spent on me. Each year, I walked the campus feeling like I didn’t belong there.

Don’t get me wrong, I was accepted

My mom came home and told us that she had started her personal relationship with Jesus Christ. She was full of life and excitement. She explained that we’d be trying a new church on Sunday, Bible Fellowship of Riverside, where Chuck White and his family had attended. My mom’s redefined faith in Jesus Christ sparked my father to rededicate his life to Jesus after years of trying to go at it alone.

As we learned what life was all about, I learned that my works were just a byproduct of walking with Jesus.

My mom, my dad and I started this journey, but my brother was still in Colorado, attending the Air Force Academy. Going to a new church, I GENERATIONS SPRING 20212023 • 25 • 25

and loved and I had a great experience.

I just felt undeserving. At one point, my sophomore year, I begged my mom to let me leave. My mom told me that God had a plan and a purpose for me at Woodcrest Christian. God had indeed provided the means necessary through the faithful obedience of one of his servants, and whoever decided to pay my way was carrying out God’s will. I knew that I would never be able to repay them with anything more than a “thank you.”

But I guess that’s the point, right?

That’s what has taken me all this time to finally understand. This amazing gift was just the first of many undeserving gifts from the Lord: my wife Karina, my three sons, the close community of friends that I still have from Woodcrest Christian, and the gift of Jesus paying the ultimate price for me. I didn’t ask Him to do it, I definitely didn’t deserve it, and there was no way I could ever repay Him. I realized that Jesus uses others to change lives. He does the work while we walk in obedience. I could talk a lot about the great academics and the opportunities that Woodcrest Christian offers. However, my positive experience stems from the community of believers that this school offers, and the people who serve God and do the hard things, like the person who sacrificed financially so that I could have these experiences.

Now obviously for young Travis Gilbert, I was very well versed in being pulled out of class and going to the principal’s

26 • WCSS.ORG

office. In my years before Woodcrest, I was usually sent to the office for a welldeserved punishment or a lecture about what I’ve done wrong. The first time I was pulled out at Riverside Christian Day School by the principal, Randy Thompson, I was very, very confused.

See, I wasn’t in trouble. Instead, I found myself in a deep conversation about who God was, how much he loved me, and how I could be friends with Jesus. Mr. Thompson understood that in order to change kids’ behavior, he must first mold their character.

I know for a fact that the staff at Woodcrest Christian cares about kids’ hearts. They care that our children love God and love people. It hasn’t been until these last few years that I truly understood how my life, Chuck White’s life, the summer of 1994, and my eight years at Woodcrest Christian were seamlessly interwoven into my personal Christian faith.

It wasn’t until January 2020 when my mentor and my brother Eric Gilbert died suddenly, that I started to understand true loss. Someone who I deeply loved was taken from me unexpectedly. The spiritual impact hit me when Chuck White’s son, Jeff, texted me on January 4, 2020. Jeff had become a true friend and mentor during my years at Woodcrest. Jeff offered his sincere condolences for the loss of my brother. At the moment of that text, I could truly empathize with the loss of his family that they experienced in the summer of 1994.

I finally comprehended the grief that accompanied death, understanding the bittersweet truth that the White family’s loss was the genesis of the Gilbert family’s faith in Jesus Christ—a place where God turned grief into hope, where one family’s loss led to another family’s salvation. I understood that this loss was the seed that grew into a tree

of faith that continues to save souls for Christ’s kingdom. My brother accepted the Lord a few years after Chuck’s death.

My brother led his family well. He was a Christian man, he was a Christian leader, and he was very well-respected in the Air Force. Knowing that the loss of Chuck White coincided with the start of my journey with Woodcrest Christian will always have deep significance to me.

At Woodcrest Christian, “love God and love people” is not just a clever motto; it is a way of life. In 2019, we made the decision to pull our oldest child from public school and send him to Woodcrest. We saw how deeply the staff cared for our children, and quite frankly, for us. I was brought to tears as I reflected on my own journey through the school system. We now have two children at Woodcrest, and next year it will be three. We still experience the community and love that the staff provides on a deep level. My wife Karina and I have been blessed with amazing friendships that started in Mrs. Phillips’ class in 1994. I thank God for my eight years at Woodcrest Christian School and for the person who made the decision to support me for eight straight years. God creates beauty out of chaos if we have the faith to let Him. Thank you.

At Woodcrest Christian, “love God and love people” is not just a clever motto, it is a way of life.

2013 ALUMNI

HANNAH SEABERT Following her dream of playing professional soccer, Hannah Seabert has traveled the world, trained with incredible athletes, and performed in the spotlight. She shares with us her travels, accomplishments, and challenges in overcoming setbacks, yet staying focused on going after her goals.

D

ecember of 2021 was a full circle moment in Hannah Seabert’s professional soccer career. At the age of 26, Hannah found herself with gloves on and in the goal. As the game started, Hannah was commanding her teammates, surrounded by thousands of cheering fans as she got ready to face off against Sandviken at the Ullevaal Stadion in Oslo, Norway. This was no ordinary game—the winner would walk away with the prestigious title of the Norwegian Women’s Cup National Champions. Yet this game meant more than just a win or loss to Hannah. It meant a shot at redemption.

Just one year earlier, Hannah had spent a majority of the season playing goalkeeper for her team as they competed in the single-elimination Norwegian Women’s Cup. However, because of coaching decisions, Hannah’s position as goalkeeper was replaced in the final match of the Cup. Hannah shared, “Although I was happy for

my team, and happy for the other goalkeeper who is one of my best friends and teammate, not being selected to be goalkeeper after working all year in the position really made me question my skill and had shaken my confidence.”

One year later, Hannah’s team had once again made it through to the Cup finals, but this time Hannah was getting her shot to prove her skills and had a chance at redemption. Hannah shares that just being able to play that night had already brought the closure she needed, and win or lose, starting as goalkeeper was already enough. Hannah walked off the field as a champion that night with her team, Valerenga, winning 2-1. Hannah says, “I felt an incredible sense of accomplishment and pride in what my team and I had accomplished.

Energy coursed through me as the fans chanted my name while cheering for us.” Hannah had found her moment amidst the challenge.

Hannah expressed her thankfulness after the game and shared how the Lord knew that this night of closure, of redeeming the previous difficult year, was just what she needed. On top of the full-circle closure, Hannah also had her parents in the crowd who flew out from the States to support her. This topped the night off for Hannah. In respect to her future playing soccer, as Hannah decided to continue her career at a new club the following season and was happy to end her time in Oslo on a high.

While this was a peak moment in Hannah’s soccer career, it has been the dedication and longevity of Hannah’s commitment to soccer that set her apart from the crowd.

Hannah began playing soccer at the age of nine for FC Legends. While at Woodcrest Christian, Hannah played four years of varsity soccer where she had 31 shutouts, 277 saves and allowed 41 goals. To this day, Hannah holds many Woodcrest Christian records.

She earned All-CIF honors three times and collected three first team AllAmbassador League selections.

Upon graduating from Woodcrest Christian, Hannah continued her love of soccer on a full-ride athletic scholarship, playing for Pepperdine University from 2013-2017 while studying Sports Administration.

28 • WCSS.ORG

Hannah left her mark on that school and finished her career with a programrecord 331 saves in 82 games played, finished second in career wins with 46, third with a 0.90 goals against average, third with 28 career solo shutouts, fourth with a career .813 save percentage, and fifth with 4.03 saves per game.

During her senior year at Pepperdine, Hannah attended the U23 National Team camp. This is a camp of potential future soccer players whose primary role is the development of players in preparation for the full Women’s National Team. While this was very exciting, it was the same week as the college draft, which ultimately Hannah did not get selected for. Being her greatest dream at this point, the news that she did not get selected to play nationally was “one of the hardest moments in my soccer career and made me question a lot,” she says.

In the disappointment of not being selected for the college draft, Hannah saw God’s hand as she was scouted and trained with the Orlando Pride’s goalkeeper coach at the U23 camp. In this next season of life, Hannah would be bumping shoulders with the likes of Alex Morgan and other professional athletes. Hannah was not yet necessarily playing, but got to train with the best in the sport.

From this training, Hannah connected and signed with her first European

team, Fortuna Hjørring in Denmark.

Hannah describes playing for this team as “successful and was a great initial European experience.” She continues, “This is where I realized living and playing abroad would be a long-term pursuit for me.” During Hannah’s first year playing for Fortuna Hjørring, her team was the Danish league champion and came in second place the following year. On top of that, Hannah’s success on this team brought her first experience playing in the Champions League, a notable European competition where the top teams from each country compete against each other to crown the champion of Europe.

While playing in Denmark was great, Hannah wanted to move on to a more competitive league which led her to play for Vålerenga, a team that plays in Norway’s top league, Toppserien.

It was while she was playing for Vålerenga that Hannah won the 2020 Norwegian League Title (qualifying them for Champions League) and the Norwegian Women’s Cup, in 2021 also winning the Norwegian Women’s Cup. This is noteworthy, as it was Hannah’s second appearance in the Champions League.

After playing in Norway, Hannah has since moved to Lisbon, Portugal, and is playing for Sporting Clube de Portugal Feminino. Hannah shares how excited she is to play in a big city, and continues to progress higher in more competitive

leagues. It was in this club and league that famous men’s soccer player Cristiano Ronaldo began his career.

Overall, Hannah demonstrates the unique life of a professional athlete while still remaining grounded in her relationship with Jesus. When asked what impact Woodcrest Christian has made on her life, Hannah shared about the Biblical foundation offered through coaches, teachers, missions trips leaders, and the Woodcrest Christian community as a whole.

Hannah has traveled across 16 different countries and has called three different countries home in Europe alone.

Having a career that involves lots of travel, Hannah shares the beauty of seeing faith expressed in different cultures globally, yet sees the same fundamental truths retained across cultures. Despite the nomadic lifestyle, Hannah credits the influence of her family, her church and the Biblical truth taught at Woodcrest Christian as what has kept her grounded.

Overall, Hannah’s soccer career has been marked with both success and difficulty. Early in her career Hannah saw disappointment turned into opportunity, saw a bruised confidence redeemed into victory playing for Norwegian Women’s Cup in 2021, and now is seeing a bright horizon of opportunity once again playing in Portugal. If one thing is sure, it is that Hannah lets few goals get past her and she is a keeper!

GENERATIONS 2023 • 29

M A K E A N I M PAC T

Will you help impact the next generation?

From our first days as an elementary school at Riverside Christian Day School in 1948 to now, our school has stayed true to one purpose—to raise up young people in the Word and to give God all the glory. Our commitment to a Christ-centered education remains steadfast. We look back over the last 75 years and see that God has been faithful in our past, He’s working now in our current students, families, and staff, and He’s going to be faithful in our future. Will you join us in making an IMPACT as we passionately prepare the next generation of students to IMPACT the world for Christ?

WAYS TO DONATE: GIVE A ONE-TIME DONATION Donate safely and securely online at wcss.org/donate

SET UP A RECURRING GIFT Give over a period of time by setting up a recurring gift. To set up your recurring gift please contact our finance office at (951) 780-2010.

All donations are tax-deductible. Woodcrest Christian School System is an IRS approved 501(c)(3) religious corporation.

30 • WCSS.ORG

WOODCREST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Transitional Kindergarten through 12th Grade 18401 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside, California 92508 | (951) 780-2010 | WCSS.ORG

Passionately Preparing Students to Impact the World for Christ