WOODCREST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
GENERATIONS
2024
A vibrant group of eighth graders show their class spirit during Woodcrest Christian middle school Spiritual Emphasis Week which culminates with a day of biblical reflections, class competitions, and wild and crazy colored teams!
2023-2024
CONTENTS 06
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT: KAYLA HULTS
Learn about middle school English teacher and recently published author Kayla Hults' remarkable journey.
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THE BEAUTY OF GOD
10
REMARKABLE ROYALS
14 16
See the imaginations of middle school students through this anthology of creativity.
Meet 10 remarkable students pursuing passions, achieving goals, and leading by example.
UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR Plan to join us for an exciting year of events.
A DISTINCTLY DIFFERENT APPROACH
See how faithfulness over time creates a lasting impact for those who call Woodcrest Christian home.
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STORY OF CHAMPIONS
Celebrate the big wins and exciting achievements in athletics in 2023.
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
Explore a new approach to cultivate leadership qualities in athletes.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: KATY BETZ, CLASS OF 2000
Witness the power of prayer and passion for her work as Katy spreads light in a very secular art industry.
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: STEVEN ROBILLARD, CLASS OF 2009
Making his way as a businessman turned politician, Steven shares how his roots at Woodcrest Christian have influenced his career path.
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 i n f o @ wc s s . o r g | wc s s . o r g
P a 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
GENERATIONS 2024 • 03
A LETTER FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT
BEING A ROYAL Dear Woodcrest Christian Families, As we welcome in 2024, it is a great time to be reminded of the incredible gifts and talents our students possess and share with others. Being a Royal at any grade level means receiving a superb education while being mentored by Christ-centered teachers and coaches, but it also means the opportunity to discover and develop the gifts that God has given each of them. Whether current students or alumni, being a Royal means being good stewards and God’s servants to others — something that we see every day and you can find examples of in this issue of Generations. May the Lord continue to do a wonderful work in your life and the lives of our students, knowing that our sole purpose as believers is to glorify Him and love Him forever. In Christ,
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Eighth grader Parker Higgins launches into a giant ball pit filled with over 2,000 beach balls as part of the 3rd annual Back-to-School Bash!
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
2012 ALUMNI
KAYLA HULTS
Woodcrest Christian alumna, middle school English teacher, and recently published author, Kayla Hults (class of 2012) shares her remarkable journey from middle school inspiration to a dream finally come to fruition.
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ot many people can say they were inspired in middle school to pursue something that is still a passion in adulthood. While most adults shudder when remembering the tumultuous preteen years, Kayla Hults remembers them as the moment her dream began. It was during her eighth grade year at Woodcrest Christian that she wrote the first draft to a novel she would eventually publish fifteen years later. “It’s ironic that I now teach in the same classroom that I sat in for English class as an eighth grader,” Kayla says smiling. With a vivid imagination and the discovery in middle school of a talent and passion for writing,
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Kayla’s journey has come full circle: from student, to teacher, and now published author. Kayla discovered her love for writing as a child when she wrote her first book called Kate the Pirate. “My mom had it spiral bound for me, and I thought it was the coolest thing in the world to have my own official book. I still have a copy of it somewhere!” she says. Reading stories and writing continued for Kayla, and in eighth grade she made up a story about a young girl named Larissa set in a world of different kingdoms with magic gemstones. “My story was one that I would pick up and work on and then set aside for several years,” she says. “I kept thinking I’d publish it when it’s ready or when I’m ready. But I was never ready, so I kept setting it aside. Eventually, as I continued working on it, the story changed so much. The premise is kind of the same as the original and the same characters remained, but everything else— setting, magic system, and additional characters changed. My story, and myself, needed to mature so that I could publish the right story.” In November of 2023, Kayla’s 441page novel, Well of Dreams, was
published. In the first week it hit #1 in New Releases on Amazon.com in the Teen & Young Adult Country & Ethnic Fairy Tales & Folklore category. With strong dystopian elements, the book takes readers into a world of ancestral magic following seventeen-year-old Larissa, younger sister Halla, and friends Darien and Anara as they uncover secrets of their past, discover the bonds of sisterhood, and struggle to survive in a world of ruin, wounded and hunted by agents of a villainous empress. Combined with exciting plot twists and rich Nordic lore, the story captivates with adventure and intrigue. Well of Dreams is Kayla’s first book in The Runic Saga, a series of four books and multiple short stories Kayla has planned for the future. As an avid reader, Kayla’s work has been influenced by both modern works and folkloric legends. She explains, “The whimsical, mythological elements of Percy Jackson, the sisterly bond between Katniss and Prim in The Hunger Games, the runic magic from The Infernal Devices, and the idea of regaining the kingdom one commonwealth at a time from Eragon all inspired my work.
Drawing questions to the reader’s mind, the resulting work is a theme of fate versus free will as characters do things because the Norn are in control and pulling the strings or because they have a say in who they become. “I love how two of the main characters, Larissa and Darien, have been around since the first draft,” Kayla says. “And although it isn’t as evident in the first book, by the end of the series, I’m hoping that my biblical themes will be even more evident. I can’t say what that biblical theme is without giving spoilers for the last book, so I’ll just leave it at that,” she says. Kayla admits that the entire publication process was a roller coaster of emotions. From hours of research and hundreds of pages of notes to critique partners, beta readers, developmental editing, copy/ line editing, proofreading, ARC readers, aggregators, and distributors, the process for a first-time selfpublisher was overwhelming. “It’s not as simple as ‘here’s my book, let me put it on Amazon,’” she laughs. However, Kayla’s favorite part of the experience was the drafting. “Writing the book is just so enjoyable. Letting the characters grow naturally, responding to reader feedback, and watching the story unfold is just pure enjoyment.”
Over a 15-year span, many have come alongside Kayla to encourage her writing endeavors. She credits her time at Woodcrest Christian for expanding her love of reading, which in turn spurred on her love and knowledge of writing. “Woodcrest Christian taught me that God belongs in everything, even a creative book. He is not just a Bible class entity or a church entity, He is a part of everything in my life. What I write needs to honor Him.” Kayla explains that even in her social media presence and promotion of her book, she takes the lessons learned from her time at Woodcrest Christian to be sure she is representing the Lord well. “Everything I do,” she says, “can and should glorify Him.” Recently, Kayla says the Lord placed two other self-published authors in her life who greatly supported every step of her publishing journey. “They are both Christian moms, and they have encouraged, motivated, and guided me through the entire selfpublishing process while reminding me to keep my focus on glorifying God and not myself,” Kayla says. “Finding a community of writers and supporting other writers changed the game completely for me. I am convinced that God intentionally placed people in my life and in my writing community, and they are the
reason why I was encouraged and educated on publishing my book this year.” At the launch party for Well of Dreams—held befittingly in the Woodcrest Christian library—nearly 100 people gathered to celebrate Kayla’s publishing achievement. Among the strong support of her family, editor, current Woodcrest Christian students, and friends, Kayla above all gave the glory for her success to the Lord. “Christ is the ultimate author. My story pales in comparison to Christ’s story,” she shared at the event. “God has given me both the passion and talent to write, but I need to make sure that I am always returning the glory back to Him or I run the risk of writing becoming my idol.” Kayla went on to encourage young students and aspiring writers by sharing, “If you love writing, don’t let anyone tell you that it’s just a dream. My dream took 15 years to fulfill, and it is 100% worth it!”
MIDDLE SCHOOL POEMS
THE BEAUTY OF GOD
AN ANTHOLOGY OF CREATIVITY The Poetry Unit in Woodcrest Christian middle school English class brings out the creative writer in many of our middle schoolers. Students are asked to create poems that reflect the beauty of God by demonstrating their creativity, humor, and technique. In some poems, students are instructed to focus on humor, storytelling, or their relationships with God. The result? Heartfelt pieces of work that capture the thoughtful and imaginative minds of our students.
A Fish in the Ocean
Jeremiah Milton - 8th Grader
God, to me, is an ocean A calm, clear, crystal sea I am the fish inside With all I ever need Satan is a fisherman Who lowers his bait I, the naive little fish Do not hesitate I leave the perfect ocean On Satan’s horrible hook I am freed, however, And I am not, quite thankfully, cooked God accepts me back Into the sea that has all I seek, need, and more I love it and hate the hook But I still take the bait and Satan gets a score I try to stay in the ocean Where it is much better for me But sometimes sin takes over And from God I flee 08 • WCSS.ORG
The Planter and the Flower Sarra Prophete - 8th Grader
My planter plants me Where I’m meant to be. He continuously comes every day to water me, Because without Him, I could not grow. As my planter waters and watches over me, I continue to grow in these beautiful stages. I often forget though, forget that I need my planter in order to live this life. I have also doubted, doubted that I am a beautiful blossoming flower. I soon do not believe this doubt, By the way my planter looks at me. As I look at the sizzling sun, and sway with the wonderful wind, I remember how much my powerful planter loves, provides, and cares for me.
The Gardener Jillian Ivascu - 8th Grader
I sit as a seed Knowing that something is missing God the gardener comes to my rescue He knows what I am worth He waters me with His Word I grow steadily in His light Patience and limitless love What He has waiting for me The Lord tries tenderly every day To get Himself closer to my heart When I fearfully fall down to the ground He is there to pick me back up I am not an undesirably ugly and small seed anymore Now fruitful and flawless in His eyes Continually growing for Him alone And waiting for the day He returns
I am God’s Masterpiece Grace Dizmon - 8th Grader
God is a paced painter Who paints me neatly I may think that He is making mistakes But He makes me beautiful, better than I could think, and perfect
The Builder
Nolan Evans - 8th Grader
My life is like a PC God builds me Piece by piece In the way He wants me to be There are many, many parts All for a different purpose One part to another part He has a plan First He puts the main parts together Then the more complex parts When I grow and mature Then He puts the parts together To make a strong, useful PC That lives a life That serves a purpose And that lives and works for his Creator
He may add less And I see it as something super silly Or He may add more And I think it is too much He makes me how He wants I will not judge, even though I think He is wrong He is right He swipes, swiftly away on my solid blank canvas All the way through, He has a plan I may not like it But He is the crafty creator, not I The loving, lovely God made me how I should be So in the end, I am made in His image for a purpose
GENERATIONS 2024 • 09
R O YA L S I N AC T I O N
REMARKABLE ROYALS
WOODCREST CHRISTIAN ROYALS CHASING THEIR DREAMS Our Royals have exciting and interesting endeavors both on and off campus. Meet 10 remarkable students pursuing their passions, achieving their goals, and looking forward to their futures.
LOGAN HOFSCHROER - Eighth Grader It’s not every day that you get asked to sing at the Grand Ole Opry. When Logan was invited to be part of a youth ensemble to open a show at the world-famous country music venue in Nashville, he jumped at the chance. The group of 18 students sang O Come, O Come, Emmanuel for the show, which featured an adult choir of 100 people, a 60-piece orchestra, and 21 different artists. Singing in front of an audience of 4,000 people is something Logan will never forget. “It felt special to be part of something so historic. It was awesome backstage seeing how everything worked and meeting some famous people,” he says. With his love of music, playing guitar and singing in the school worship band, we wouldn’t be surprised to see Logan up on the Grand Ole Opry stage later on in life again!
CALEB THOMPSON - Class of 2024 As a child of deaf adults, also known as a CODA, Caleb has a unique perspective which has influenced his decision to pursue a career as a nurse anesthetist. He was recently accepted into the nursing program at Point Loma Nazarene University and received a cumulative $100,000 scholarship. “Having deaf parents has taught me to be more engaged. If I’m talking to a deaf person, I can’t be doing or listening to other things, I have to see them right here. As I’m going into the nursing field, I have to be one-on-one with the patients. I have to show them that I’m there for them making eye contact and letting them know I’m listening to them the whole time.” Caleb volunteers his time in the deaf community by serving at a summer camp for CODAs and serving as an interpreter. “Over the past few summers, I was the interpreter for a New York Times reporter who is publishing a book about the high school football team at the California School for the Deaf in Riverside,” Caleb says. “I would go to the team’s practices and interpret everything they were saying out on the field for the writer.” Caleb also maintains a heavy load of classes at WCHS taking AP Stats, AP Government, Honors Anatomy and Honors Bible while playing three sports—Varsity Flag Football, Varsity Boys Basketball, Varsity Boys Baseball—and potentially a fourth sport with Track & Field. 10 • WCSS.ORG
3.
SALLY GFELLER - Class of 2025 In the top tier of her class—taking four AP courses plus Honors Spanish and Advanced Bible— Sally’s dedication to school goes without saying. Nevertheless, she still manages to find time to serve others and fulfill her love of ballet. Sally is an accomplished ballerina dancing since she was three years old and spending upwards of 24 hours per week at the dance studio. Over the past summer, she traveled to Sun Valley Ballet for an Intensive to dance with the Dutch National Ballet and the San Francisco Ballet. This December marks her 11th season performing in The Nutcracker at Landis Auditorium. She has served on Student Council since her freshman year, and since seventh grade she has regularly served over 120 hours per year in the community with the National Charity League.
RYLEE CUMMINS - Seventh Grader In her fifth year of Acro—a fusion of acrobatic skills, gymnastics, tumbling and choreography—Rylee spends upwards of 15 hours per week training. She recently traveled to Colombia to compete as a Junior Elite Athlete on the U.S. National team at the Acrobatic Gymnastics Pan American Championship. Taking home 1st place in the age 12-18 Mixed Pairs division in Balance and 1st place in Dynamic, Rylee and her Acro partner also claimed Gold in the All Around. Rylee says, “I love that it requires partnership. It’s a lot of hard work, and you see things that you think you could never do, like flipping and tumbling, and then you’re able to do it and it feels so cool.”
ETHAN KELL - Class of 2025 It’s no joke that Ethan was kicking a ball before he could walk. “My dad was a high school soccer coach so I was shagging balls and shooting around from the time I can remember. I was three years old on my first soccer team.” Now in his junior year, Ethan is goalkeeper for the U-17 Los Angeles Football Club Academy Team, a professional pathway for elite players with the potential to become a Homegrown Player for LAFC. Still deciding between playing professionally at age 18 or playing college competitively first, Ethan is heading into his senior year with a full plate of schoolwork along with an intense training and travel schedule with the team. Through the pressure, Ethan says he and his family make sure to put faith over soccer. “We put a focus on church and Wednesday night youth group. If I have training on Sunday, we often don’t go and go to church instead, or we try to get back early from games and go to church on Saturday nights when we can. It’s definitely about choosing faith over soccer more.”
GENERATIONS 2024 • 11
R E M A R K A B L E R O YA L S
GRACE VAN HAASTER - Class of 2024 Grace has set her sights on being in the military, and it’s only a matter of time. She has seen first-hand the positive influence the military has brought about in her two older brothers who have experienced various military academies. “I like knowing I’m going to gain incredible experience and develop character traits that won't just benefit me, but benefit everyone I have contact with. We have great privileges in our country, and I want to be part of sustaining that for future generations,” she says. In her senior year, Grace has mastered taking four AP classes and spending countless hours practicing the flute which she plays in the school band, also while being part of the first CIF win on the Varsity Girls Tennis team. Most of all this year, Grace shares she’s learned to rely on the Lord. “I have no idea where my life’s going to go at this point. This year trusting God has been a big thing,” she says. “I know that God has a plan for my life, and I’m going to be doing great things for His kingdom as long as I align my vision with His will.”
HANNAH KIM - Fourth Grader Though only in fourth grade, Hannah has found a talent and passion for figure skating. Hannah was introduced to skating when she was just seven years old as a way to do something active during the pandemic. “Right from the start, she loved skating,” says Hannah’s mom, Sandy. “We tried introducing her to soccer and volleyball, but it was skating that she asked to keep doing.” Now Hannah practices between 20 and 24 hours per week while also playing piano and violin. In the last year, Hannah won first place at two competitions and took third place at the 2023 Golden West Championships, a singles and pairs competition that is part of the U.S. Figure Skating’s National Qualifying Series. Currently, Hannah is learning to master figure skating’s double axel, a difficult 2.5 rotation jump. With a love of the sport at such a young age, it will be exciting to see where Hannah goes in the world of figure skating.
EYAN TURK - Class of 2025 Eyan Turk has been running competitively since the third grade. In November of 2023, he won the Cross Country Division 5 CIF State Championship with a personal record time of 14:59 for the 5k run. His dedication to running and to his faith are evident in the way he returns the glory of his wins to the Lord. Eyan enjoys the time spent with his cross country teammates and says they help to motivate and encourage him. He says, “Being surrounded by others who know Christ helps me grow in my faith. I appreciate having those who can help sharpen me.”
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JULIANA GIRGUIS - Class of 2025, GABRIELLA GIRGUIS - Class of 2027 Sisters Juliana and Ella discovered a love for missions when they spent two weeks in Africa this past summer on a missions trip. Serving in Maseno, a town located in Kenya, the girls experienced evangelism in a life-changing way as they shared the Gospel house-to-house. “We came back on fire for the Lord,” says Ella. “Going out and evangelizing strengthens your faith," says Juliana, “and I’m not afraid to share my faith anymore. It just shows how the Lord can transform you.”
SHANTE ZHOU - Class of 2024 The year 2022 held some momentous events for Shante in his relationship with the Lord, his family, and a new business venture. “I was kind of a lukewarm Christian until my sophomore year when I really solidified my belief. I went to my Bible teacher, Mr. Logan, and he had a really big impact on me. Also, my mom joined a discipleship group while doing her Ph.D. studies at La Sierra University, and she became a Christian.” That was also the year Shante and two friends started a software company for social media management and mobile app design. “I was a minor at the time, so my mom had to incorporate the business for us,” he says. In November 2023, Shante’s software was picked up by AppSumo, a boon for the business. “They have an affiliate program and they select one percent of the people that apply, and we got it!” he exclaims. This is definitely just the beginning of business endeavors for Shante, who plans to pursue a degree in economics.
GENERATIONS 2024 • 13
MARCH
FEBRUARY
PROSPECTIVE FAMILY TOUR JANUARY 20
MISSIONS BANQUET FEBRUARY 3
RE-ENROLLMENT BEGINS FEBRUARY 12 WCMS NATIONAL HERITAGE TOUR FEBRUARY 16-24
ENROLLMENT BEGINS FOR NEW FAMILIES MARCH 1 EASTER CHOIR CONCERT MARCH 14
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MISSIONS TRIPS MARCH 16-24
APRIL
11, 12 20 3 12 16-24 1 14 16-24
HOMECOMING GAMES JANUARY 11, 12
MAY
JANUARY
2024 UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR 5-13 3 4
SPRING MUSICAL APRIL 5, 6 AND 11, 12, 13
WCDS OPEN HOUSE MAY 3 BAND SPRING CONCERT MAY 4
15 16 17 18 28,29,30
WCHS AWARDS NIGHT MAY 15 WCMS MIDDLEFEST DAY MAY 16 WCDS SPORTS DAY MAY 17 SPRING CHOIR CONCERT MAY 18 GRADUATIONS MAY 28, 29, 30
Students and grandparents alike enjoy the fun and memories made during Grandparents Day at Woodcrest Christian Day School.
MAIN ARTICLE
TO IMPACT THE WORLD FOR CHRIST PASSIONATELY PREPARING STUDENTS
WOODCREST CHRISTIAN: A DISTINCTLY DIFFERENT APPROACH
I
t was the summer of 1948 when a grandmother named Matilda Randall went on a retreat to Forest Home Conference Center and met a group of women who together felt the Lord’s calling to start a Christian school in Riverside. Matilda saw where public education was headed, and God had impressed upon her heart to provide a Christ-centered alternative. A prayer from Matilda written in a journal at the camp still remains as a testament to the start of a legacy known as the Woodcrest Christian School System. More than 75 years later, the fruit of that prayer is a school of more than 1,200 enrolled students, and more than 2,800 alumni impacting the world for Christ. Matilda was not exuberantly wealthy. She did not hold a political position, nor did she have the social status to woo crowds towards a vision, but through her faithful obedience God used her to make an impact. Her impact was not one of force, will, or power but rather was one of obedience that over time has sprouted like a mustard seed. Christian author and writer Andy Crouch describes true impact as that invested over time rather than strong forcible moments: “...the power of time, this is the power of raising a child, this is the power of building a friendship…this is the power of a life of prayer.” Matilda did not make an impact through one moment of force or power, but her example of humble faithfulness and obedience over time has made a remarkable difference. GENERATIONS 2024 • 17
Woodcrest Christian’s cross country coaches show their Hawaiian-inspired school spirit at a race.
This impact is not just something of the past. Woodcrest Christian is full of staff members who passionately pour their hearts into their work of preparing students to go out into the world. Seventy-five years later, Woodcrest Christian continues to bear fruit from the seed of faith planted through Matilda years ago. Even in the current school year, there are moments of this kind of Christfirst impact happening across and within our campuses every day. In the fall of 2023, we celebrated cross country CIF State Champion Eyan Turk and the 34th consecutive year of the Varsity Boys Cross Country team winning league. While this is a remarkable feat for our student athletes, much has been given by faithful coaches for such a repeated achievement. Coach Ben Nunnally has been involved with cross country at Woodcrest Christian for 23 years. He shares, “As I look back, the Lord has truly guided the path for this program. Our son, Grant brought my engagement to the program, and I saw an unbelievable sport in a world that is so challenging and that doesn't always give the athletes a way to see success. It has personally given me the strength to overcome great 18 • WCSS.ORG
trials after Grant was called home to be with our Lord in 2002. The Lord showed me the importance of faith and family, especially with the coaches of Woodcrest Christian, let alone the cross country athletes! I have been blessed to be part of a program that has seen many athletes grow in confidence, stature, and truly believing in themselves, let alone see six State Championships, two individual State Champions, ten CIF Championships and undefeated League Champions 34 years in a row. Very few can be so blessed to be part of such a program.” A WCS alumnus and now high school science teacher, JP Reynolds (Class of 2017) shares his dual perspective on both being impacted and now making an impact at Woodcrest Christian. “To whom much is given, much is expected,” he says, “and Woodcrest Christian gave me a lot. My coaches and teachers focused on relationships and building me up as an individual which translated into success on the track and in the classroom. I took those lessons and let them define me as a collegiate athlete. Now I have the opportunity to give back to the place that gave me so much.”
With a similar longevity as the cross country program, the missions program has been part of the high school for the past 24 consecutive years. In that time, more than 1,000 Woodcrest Christian students have traveled across the globe on mission trips to places like India, Jamaica, Belize, Costa Rica, and Chile. These trips often demand that students step outside of their comfort zones, and each year there are countless stories of lives being changed. Recent graduate Gavin Deering (Class of 2023) shares, “It was on these trips where I experienced God in a unique way through the change of my heart and mind. I was encouraged to do things for the Lord while serving the community.” Scott Reynolds, who will be leading his 16th trip in 2024, shares, “Mission trips are an integral part of who we are at Woodcrest Christian. We want our kids to experience God in real and authentic ways outside of their regular environment. Mission trips are an amazing way that our students connect with God and experience Him in ways that will last for the rest of their lives.” An example of this comes from 2014 alumnus Justin White, who shares, “It was on these trips I learned how
to journal and talk with God in a way that has since impacted the next decade of my life.” Undoubtedly, missions allows students to “impact the world for Christ” through service and outreach in different countries, and just as importantly, the students themselves are impacted. While the continuity of school programs is a hallmark of impact, it’s the everyday, faithful dedication of faculty and staff that invests in students’ lives. Sixth grade teacher Cheryl Murdaugh, who started teaching at WCDS in 1980, shares her reason for teaching, “Hour-byhour I get to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with students, helping them to see and know that God loves them and is wanting to interact with them on a personal level. I have been so blessed to see many young people go on to lead successful, Godhonoring adult lives, who desire to serve Him faithfully in a variety of different arenas.What a privilege!” Cindy Phillips has taught at WCDS since 1984 and currently teaches fifth grade. She has noticed the most notable impact over time in
the Bible homework assigned. “One of the homework assignments that has impacted students and families the most is the Bible memorization homework. As students work on memorizing the Word of God at home, parents often help them with their homework by quizzing them and listening to them recite their verses. While the students quote the verses, they and their parents are touched by God's Word as they learn and grow in Him. Many families have come to the Lord through the Bible verse memorization homework.” This theme of impact through students into families is found not only in the schoolwork or programs, but also through the many avenues of relationships developed at the school. High School Bible teacher Dave Burdett is approaching 50 years of teaching and shares, “As I've watched almost 3,000 students graduate Woodcrest Christian High School, I've come to see that my job is not just to help them pass tests, but that I am a tool in God's hands helping to shape them for what He has planned for them. Over this
time, I’ve been blessed to share that future with many of them. I've even been able to teach a good number of my students' kids, all of which has proven to be a joyful benefit of my time at Woodcrest Christian.” The staff discipling students on mission trips,the heart of a Woodcrest Christian coach, and the faithful teacher doesn’t begin to capture the myriad of stories that go on at school. Above all, in its 75+ year history, the faculty and staff at Woodcrest Christian seek to be like Jesus, who made relationships His goal. In Matthew 31:13 Jesus compares His kingdom to a mustard seed to show His disciples the paradox of impact. While earthly kingdoms arrive through force, often led by a military hero, Jesus paints the picture of something sacrificially small growing into something large and strong through faithful obedience, even unto death. This is what makes Woodcrest Christian distinctly different—a commitment to Christ first, which over time is the true impact.
The joy Mrs. Murdaugh exudes in her classroom comes from the privilege she finds in getting to share the Gospel with students every day.
TO I M PAC T T H E W O R L D F O R C H R I S T
DISTINCTLY DIFFERENT MOMENTS OF IMPACT
DEVELOPED IN DRAMA The impact made through the Woodcrest Christian Drama Department is usually no laughing matter...except for this year! Students performed The Play That Goes Wrong and provided rich laughter for the Royals community through well-timed humor and near-professional acting. Director Teresa Bickett shares, "The impact these performers have on their audience, whether it’s their peers, teachers, parents, or complete strangers, is something the students don't often realize until years later. Whether through tears, laughter, or thought-provoking inquiry, the goal of our theater department is to touch the hearts of all those in attendance. Our students recognize that their talent is a gift from God and desire to share that gift to bring glory to Him. One of my greatest joys is watching the journey these young performers embark on in each production they are in—from concept to full production. The growth in confidence is so palpable and so rewarding.”
SHARED THROUGH SONG There’s a saying at Woodcrest Christian Day School which sixth grade teacher Cheryl Murdaugh shares, “Everything you ever need to know is learned in one of the Day School programs!” Through these performances starting in kindergarten, the students learn to sing, memorize lines, and perform for their peers, family, and friends. Ask just about any Day School alumni and you’ll hear another sentiment…the program songs are never forgotten! The simple truths shared in lyric and line are part of the Biblical foundation that impact students for a lifetime.
FILLED WITH MUSIC Learning to sing is only one component of being a member of choir. According to eighth grade student Gianna Prieto, choir has offered her so much more. “Choir has helped me become more comfortable on stage and around groups of people. I love the songs we sing, and I love being able to worship through singing.” Whether singing in the WCDS choir, or the middle school choir, or high school's concert and chamber choir, students are learning to sing and appreciate God's gift of music. 20 • WCSS.ORG
GATHERING TOGETHER Families at Woodcrest Christian love to have fun together! The Back-to-School Bash is our annual event to gather at the start of the school year for family-friendly and over-the-top fun! One couple mentioned that they appreciate the safe environment for their children to run and play during the event saying, "it’s like a date night for us!" Students from all grade levels enjoy the evening with great food, music, and more. This event is purely for fun, for family, and for long-lasting memories.
COMPOSING LIVES The commitment required to play an instrument well is a discipline that shapes and challenges students. In our school band, multi-instrumentalist Cole Perkins shares that two years prior to being in band he had never played an instrument. “Now I practice several hours a day,” he says, enjoying the diverse percussion and other instruments he plays. Director Braden Sapp says, "It is amazing to see the students develop not only in talent, but in the confidence gained and the joy found in performing. The skills honed in band will serve students well long after they’re done with school.”
CAUGHT UP IN THE CRAZY In the middle school, some of the craziness is intentional! Our MS Color Wars Day is a great example of that. Middle school homerooms are special places of belonging for students. It is with their homerooms that students participate in weekly chapels, chapel recap sessions, and Spiritual Emphasis Week. WCMS Principal Jamie Firetag shares, “By working to bond the students in each homeroom early in the school year, we find that the students grow in friendship with their homeroom classmates and are more comfortable sharing their spiritual thoughts, questions, and takeaways throughout the year. Dressing up together, shouting a rally cry together, competing in silly challenges together, laughing together all build toward friendship, trust, and belonging. So don't be fooled by the giant, inflatable yellow rubber ducky! This is fun with a purpose.”
A GRAND IMPACT At WCDS, there is a love of creating a special moment between grandparent and grandchild through Grandparents Day! The love and influence of a grandparent is unparalleled, and this annual event is a time for grandparents to share in the daily life of students. Several grandparents travel from out of state to be a part of this special day. GENERATIONS 2024 • 21
MORE STORIES OF IMPACT CONTINUING THE VISION OF A CHRIST-CENTERED EDUCATION Celebrated as ‘The Best Year Ever,’ the 2022/23 school year marked the 75th anniversary of Woodcrest Christian. We looked back to the humble beginning of our school’s history and looked forward to what the Lord continues to do through our school. As one of numerous events celebrating this milestone, we published a 120+ page commemorative book with stories of heritage, traditions, people, and experiences that shaped the rich history of our school. Enjoy this excerpt below about the impact of worship. Want to read more? Purchase your own copy of Woodcrest Christian’s Diamond Jubilee book for just $12 (includes shipping) at wcss.org/75book.
THE IMPACT OF WORSHIP
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hapel, senior retreat, WCDS praise and worship chapel mission trips and the Worship Under the Stars concert are just a few of the events students experience that begin with worship. Led by either the WCDS worship team, chapel band, or an informal group of student musicians, students engage in worship and learn that it is more than just a ritualistic experience. "At its foundation, worship is important because it is what we were designed to do," says alumnus Joey Garcia (Class of 2009) and current Woodcrest Christian High School English teacher. "For me, worshipping and singing worship songs has always been meaningful because it is one of the ways I feel uniquely wired to connect to the Father."
At the beginning of every middle and high school chapel, current students on the worship team and in the chapel band lead the student body in singing worship songs. "It's a time to refocus," says Joey. "In the midst of a school week and school day, with millions of distractions around us and on our minds, we can recenter our attention on Who it is all about. It quiets down the noise and slows down the busyness so that we as a body can be still and know." Joey's hope and heart for the students at Woodcrest Christian as they engage in worship is to grow comfortable with the practice of authenticity, "If I can help students understand the beauty in coming to God as is, flaws and failures
DO YOU WANT TO MAKE AN IMPACT?
and all, and boldly approaching Him in praise and repentance, then I have succeeded" he says. "Worship is a time where our inner struggles bubble up. It gives us space to surrender things or work through things with the Father." Joey led worship as a student at Woodrest Christian. He says, "Music has always been a passion of mine and using that passion to worship God just made sense. I have always appreciated how worship songs can help me express my deep, raw inner thoughts in ways I couldn't put into words myself. I love the honor of getting to help encourage others to worship. It is so powerful to be authentic and sincere in your own worship which can help free others to feel safe to do the same."
Every year, more and more families are choosing a Christ-centered education. To continue our pursuit of providing excellence in their educational experience, we started the Impact Fund to help improve and upgrade our campuses without affecting tuition or the general budget. If you feel led to contribute, please scan the QR code or visit wcss.org/donate.
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CAMPUS CROSSES Through the Impact Fund, the addition of two crosses on our campuses has brought a physical reminder of our mission to keep Christ at the center. These crosses create a gathering place for students to meet for worship, prayer, flag salutes, and more.
NEW CLASSROOMS Growth on our high school campus called for the installation of four new modular classrooms. We continue to find ways to improve and expand our school offerings so that more students can experience a Christ-centered education.
DONATE TODAY! Scan the QR code to donate to the Impact Fund or visit wcss.org/donate.
GENERATIONS 2024 • 23
SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS
STORY OF CHAMPIONS BIG WINS AND EXCITING ACHIEVEMENTS IN ATHLETICS IN 2023 LEAGUE CHAMPIONS 34 YEARS IN A ROW Boys Varsity Cross Country team clinched the League Championship again for the 34th year in a row.
CROSS COUNTRY STATE CHAMPION | EYAN TURK Junior Eyan Turk won the 2023 Division 5 CIF State Championship, finishing with a new personal record and third fastest time in course history at 14:59.
VARSITY GIRLS CROSS COUNTRY | SARAH KIM Sophomore Sarah Kim earned the All League title for Varsity Girls Cross Country in 2023.
VARSITY GIRLS TENNIS | CIF CHAMPIONS The Varsity Girls Tennis Team claimed the 2023 CIF Championship out of 135 schools, making it the first CIF win for Tennis in Woodcrest Christian history.
MOUNTAIN BIKING Our team of 13 middle and high school students on the WCS Mountain Biking Team won second place out of 24 divisions and 1,100 riders in the So Cal League for 2023.
14:07.3
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EYAN TURK’S PERSONAL RECORD FOR A THREE-MILE RUN
GENERATIONS 2024 • 25
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
A NEW APPROACH TO CULTIVATING LEADERSHIP IN ATHLETICS
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peaking into the lives of students is a passion of Middle School Athletic Director Christy Johnson. Having lived overseas in Ethiopia as a missionary for 13 years, Christy has a heart for not only serving others, but leading them to a life full in Christ. This is seen in the compassion she has for students and the expectations she sets for them, whether she’s teaching in P.E. class or coaching her Varsity Girls Soccer team. In the 2022/23 school year, as part of the intentionality Christy pours into her coaching, the idea of a Leadership Academy was born. Christy refers to this leadership training as an E.L.I.T.E. program— Excellence, Leadership, Integrity, Teamwork, Encouragement. These are traits of a high caliber leader both on and off the playing fields, and they are the qualities that she is looking for in athletes. “The program started out with coaches sending me two or three of their players who showed leadership potential,” Christy explains. “I meet with them at the beginning and near the end of their athletic season to speak into the role of being a leader. What does it look like to lead other people in
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a positive way? We want to help them develop the qualities that we already see in them which will serve them well later in life,” she says. The program for leadership development spans both middle school and high school athletic programs. High School Athletic Director Ryan Anderson continues the Leadership Academy, focusing on team captains and young students who display traits of leadership. “We are already putting some students into a position of leadership when they are named team captain, so we wanted to come alongside them and make sure they fully understand the responsibilities,” he says. “But it doesn’t stop at just captains. It’s a building block so we also include younger students who may one day be a team captain.” As a result, students are growing in the character traits necessary to lead a team of people. “It’s really a series of life skills we’re walking the students through,” says Anderson, “which they’ll use in the workplace, or on a missions trip perhaps, or wherever the Lord leads them.” In her first year as a team captain on the JV Girls Basketball
team, sophomore Elyse Dizmon says, “The way Coach Anderson challenges us has really made me think about how what I do and say on the court affects others. We may not think our teammates are watching how we react to a bad call or a bad play. We have to stay positive and keep our heads up, which will help keep our teammates up.” Representing the middle school softball team, eighth graders Ellie Hoyer and Daniella Garcia both agreed that meeting with Coach Johnson was very inspirational. Ellie says, “Coach Johnson talked to us about being encouraging. It left me feeling like now I know how to be a leader so I have no excuse not to be one.” Daniella shares, “It made me realize the aspects of leadership that I need to work on. Coach Johnson talked about integrity and putting in 100% effort even if I know no one else is watching.” As the program develops, the goal remains the same—to point athletes to have a Christ-like mindset amidst the wins and losses which come on the courts, the playing fields, and in the game of life.
School spirit is in the air when the Varsity Girls Cheer Squad rallies our students during pep rallies and athletic events.
2000 ALUMNI
KATY BETZ ‘00
Woodcrest Christian alumna and artist Katy Betz is using her gifts for God's glory, teaching illustration at Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design in Denver. She recently spoke at the Royal Legacy Gala sharing her passion for art and her inspiration to be a light in a dark and secular industry.
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aty can’t remember a time when she didn’t have a pencil in her hand doodling, drawing, scribbling, or coloring. It seems creating is in her DNA. “My dad is a cabinet maker and I remember him always sketching, whether it was a design for new kitchen cabinets or a treehouse that he built in our backyard,” she says fondly. Many an hour was spent in that very treehouse which Katy credits for spurring on her creativity and imagination. Fast forward thirty years, and Katy is an accomplished artist and art instructor. After graduating Woodcrest Christian as a lifer in 2000, Katy went on to study Illustration at Laguna College of Art and Design and earned
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her Masters in Fine Arts at Cal State Fullerton. Along the way, she traveled extensively through Europe to study art, and returned to Italy to teach illustration for a few semesters. Her artwork has hung in multiple galleries, and she has been commissioned for large art installations in several venues throughout Southern California. Her love of whimsical art and storytelling has led to illustrating several books and magazines. She is currently writing and illustrating her own middle grade action/adventure novel. Throughout her journey, Katy has recognized that her talents are a gift and a calling from the Lord. “Art is a powerful medium,” she explains. “We are influenced by art in various forms
every day. Think about how many graphics you see from the social media feed to the billboards you drive by–art is everywhere. And it’s telling a story. I want the story of my art to reflect Jesus,” she says. In 2011, Katy moved across the country to work at Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida where she taught illustration. In 2018 she moved to Denver and currently teaches at Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design. Her experiences at both colleges are reflective of the nature of the art world. “It’s a very secular and dark industry,” she says. “but I feel like the Lord has called me there to be a light.”
“While I can’t share my faith outright in the classroom,” Katy says, “I have been able to find ways to share Truth and to be a prayer warrior.” Katy regularly prayer walks her campus and has made it part of her routine to pray over every chair in her classroom at the start of each semester as she anticipates the students the Lord will bring to her class. “I meet with every student one-on-one and I’ve asked the Lord to help speak through me to say something to each student that He wants them to hear. There has been more than one instance where students have broken down in my meetings with them explaining that no one has ever affirmed them. The Lord has shown me that He is at work in an environment that is very lost and distant from Him.” In September of 2023, Katy returned to Woodcrest Christian to share her experience at the artfully-themed Royal Legacy Gala. On stage, she mentioned the influence of Woodcrest Christian staff and weekly chapels that helped shape her faith. “I have a vivid memory of Mrs. Bickett, who was my softball coach at the time, catching my friends and I ditching practice,” Katy recalls.
“She didn’t get mad when she caught us. Instead, she said we needed to be women of integrity. That really struck me. I remember thinking, ‘Oh man, she’s right.’ She wasn’t upset at us, she just called us higher.” It was a lesson that Katy says influenced her from that moment forward in the choices she made at school, in college, and in the workplace.
Katy also remembers taking art classes with Mrs. Pounders. “I took every art class I could at Woodcrest Christian, and they were all with her. Her enthusiasm for art was contagious, and she allowed me to take a creative leadership role in her class where I felt like I was able to inspire others. She was so encouraging to me,” Katy says. “At my graduate solo art show at Cal State Fullerton where I got my Masters degree, I displayed a series of Christianthemed art called Transformation of the Heart. This was six years after high school and who would show up to support me? Mrs. Pounders. She never stopped encouraging me. It meant a lot to me.”
Looking back on all the ways the Lord has guided her path, Katy says, “I’m so grateful for the upbringing I had.” Katy is a great example of a Woodcrest Christian alumna following the Lord’s call on her life, confidently sharing His story in the world of art.
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It’s a very secular and dark industry, but I feel like the Lord has called me there to be a light.
GENERATIONS SPRING 20212024 • 29 • 29
2009 ALUMNI
STEVEN ROBILLARD ‘09 Steven Robillard is an alumnus from the Woodcrest Christian class of 2009. Steven currently runs a real estate consulting firm with his family and has just announced that he will be running for City Council’s Ward 3 seat in the 2024 Riverside City Elections.
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nyone working in land development will tell you that while there are many factors to consider when looking to purchase land, taking the time to make the right decision is the foundation to all future building investments. Soil conditions, location and proximity, and city coding are just a few on the list of factors to consider when looking at investment potential. Woodcrest Christian alumnus Steven Robillard has worked for years in vacant land development with Robillard Consulting Group, and knows this truth better than most. Not only is Steven considered an expert in vacant land sales, but his life's journey since graduating from Woodcrest Christian to now running for Riverside City Council, showcases the same principle of building 30 • WCSS.ORG
upon a solid foundation. Steven credits the impact of his relationship with teachers and the shared community of peers pursuing excellence while at Woodcrest Christian that laid the groundwork for his success. While they were in middle school at Woodcrest Christian, Steven met his wife Lexie, and maintains close friendships with those he went to high school with. He shares, “Some of my closest friends are those made while attending Woodcrest Christian. It’s crazy to say out loud that it’s been over a decade now that we were students, eating lunch together every day. I am who I am today–pushing the limits in my career is largely due to the support
and foundation of these long-lasting friendships.” Steven speaks highly of his longtime friendships and experiences at Woodcrest Christian. “They have become the litmus tests for those I hope to be in community with,” he says. “I have continued to look for these environments of excellence found among my peers and teachers at Woodcrest Christian.” One specific relationship that impacted Steven the most was his favorite math teacher, Miss Hall. “I remember sitting in Miss Hall’s math class and finding an alternative way of solving the problem we were working on,” he shares. “Miss Hall invited me to come in front of the class and demonstrate to
everyone my different way of solving the problem. It was through this kind of humble teaching that encouraged me to have confidence in out-of-the-box thinking. This memory has stayed with me not because of how I solved the problem, but because of how Miss Hall encouraged me to think for myself.” In conjunction with the positive lesson taught by Miss Hall, Steven also remembers a life lesson learned through the experience of a classmate. “I’ll never forget when one of my good friends came from public school to Woodcrest Christian. At his old school, he used to be able to tell his teachers 'I don’t know' when avoiding trying to solve a problem. To his shock, Woodcrest Christian teachers didn’t take 'I don’t know' as an answer. That was not acceptable,” Steven laughs. “This accountability from my teachers to 'try' pushed students to perform at their best effort and figure out solutions to problems.” It was an impression that took root in high school and has served Steven well ever since. Woodcrest Christian’s commitment to pursue excellence was a life skill Steven has relied on as he has pursued his degrees, job opportunities, and his run for election to Riverside City Council. Outside of the classroom, Steven remembers the approach to excellence even in his athletics. “My baseball coach had the reputation of being tough on every player, but you always knew that all he wanted was for you to succeed.
At Woodcrest Christian, you couldn’t just not try your best. The staff were always pushing for excellence. It wasn’t just because that was one of their goals, but because they cared for you as an individual. They want to bring out your full potential.” Steven also recalls his time doing Track & Field. “Coach Billy York’s daily devotions made running track more than just a physical discipline, but a spiritual and mental one. Every day Coach Billy would share Scripture with the team, reminding us why we are running and who we are running for." Steven shares that he has kept this framework even today as he pursues long days, often exhausted, while on campaign for City Council. Upon graduating from Woodcrest Christian, Steven attended both Riverside Community College and the University of California, Riverside to study Political Science. While attending these schools Steven competed on the track team and was training to be a Riverside Police Cadet. Steven was employed as a Police Cadet at a time when there were no trainings or systems for new Cadets. In a similar fashion to the critical thinking required while at Woodcrest Christian, Steven shares that this was an experience in his life of having to figure things out on his own. “Essentially, I was in my early twenties and basically a “gofer” doing simple tasks. With no formal path organized, I was a guinea pig of sorts in the program. I ended up having to come up with solutions in the program and by my last
year, I saw a formal system developed for Cadet training.” While Steven foresaw a career in law enforcement, the Lord had other plans for him. “It was on my college graduation day that I found out I would not be continuing in the force,” he says. “While this time wasn’t easy, it is clear to look back on how God had closed one door and was opening a new one that only years later I would see His hand in.” That door was leaving the force and following the path of entrepreneurship—working with his family in real estate, and now running for public office. Currently, Steven finds himself in the middle of his campaign for Riverside City Council. In a season of life which requires long days and nights on the campaign trail, Steven’s foundation of faith and education are bearing fruit. Steven’s story not only shows the impact of Woodcrest Christian, but also echoes the words of Jesus in Matthew 13, the seed being planted in good soil. As with many Woodcrest Christian alumni, it’s not hard to connect the dots to see how the Lord orchestrates each individual’s life according to His plan. As Steven continues his race for city government, he can attest that through Woodcrest Christian’s intentional teaching, a culture of Christ-centered excellence, and life-long supportive relationships, his foundation is solid, and he is set up for success.
WOODCREST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
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