volume 17, issue 5 march - april 2017 being counter-cultural · 2019-12-14 · 2016–2017 march -...

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from DECATUR HERITAGE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 2016–2017

BEING COUNTER-CULTURALMARCH - APRIL 2017

VOLUME 17, ISSUE 5

Scott Mayo, Headmaster

(Continued on Page 3)

Truth is stranger than fiction, or, as the late night comedians say, “You can’t make this stuff up!” We are living in a world in which the phrase “alternative facts” is used with a straight face. This idea is not new – we have had the phrase “fake, but accurate” in our vocabulary since 2004. Recent events have prompted a large scale reprinting of George Orwell’s dystopian novel 1984, a work in which the terms “doublethink” and “newspeak” were ushered into our lives. “Fake news” is now a thing! Is it any wonder, then, that a poll conducted in the U.K., Orwell’s home country, revealed that politicians and journalists rank at the bottom of a list of most trusted/least trusted professionals? How have we gotten to this point, and what does it mean for us as a Christian school? How do we prepare our students for this world?

In the opening article of this newsletter series, I stated that we are now living in what has been called a post-Christian culture. That claim is substantiated by the rapid progression of new norms, new laws, and new definitions about what it means to be human. One particularly descriptive angle, one that illustrates the depths to which we have sunk as a society, is the observation that we are living in a post-truth culture. In fact, the Oxford Dictionary’s Word of the Year for 2016 was “post-truth.” It is defined as an adjective relating to or denoting circumstances in which objective facts are less influential in shaping public opinion than appeals to emotion and personal belief.

We have always struggled with truth. The Fall welcomes mankind into a post-truthful culture. We learn to lie from the father of lies who deceived Eve with the phrase, “Did God really say…?” In scrolling forward to the 21st century, technology has certainly made it easier to lie (e.g. Photoshop) and to immerse ourselves in echo-chambers of hyper-partisan blogs, thereby insulating ourselves from uncomfortable truths. If we practice the lie and wallow in lies long enough, it is easy to lose all touch with truth’s beauty and necessity.

Regardless of the culture, God has not given up on the value of the truth and neither has He updated His commands to us. We are to recognize and revere the truth while practicing truthfulness. We always have and always will teach our students that “The LORD abhors dishonest scales but accurate weights are his delight” (Proverbs 11:1). Our students know that they “…shall not give false testimony...” (Exodus 20:16). Assumed in both of these examples

Our Leadership

Mr. Scott Mayo HeadmasterMr. Jeremy Jones K-12 Chief Learning LeaderMr. Michael Holiday Assistant PrincipalMr. Ty Patterson Athletic DirectorMr. Steve Atchley Facility Manager & Assistant ADMrs. Scarlet Bolan Food Service DirectorMrs. Melissa Ross Guidance CounselorMrs. Heather Sasser Chief Financial Officer

Board of Trustees

Mr. Blake Temple, Chairman Mr. Dan HicksMr. Em Barran Mr. Neal HollandMrs. Blythe Bowman Mr. Stratton OrrMrs. Lyn Cook Mr. Jeff Parker Mrs. Laura Hellard Dr. Jay SuggsMrs. Tricia Heyward Mr. Skip Thompson

Faculty and Staff

Mrs. Patty Annerton Math & SpanishMrs. Paula Armstrong Business Math & Bible Mrs. Noelle Barron KindergartenMrs. Debbie Bishop Second Grade Mrs. Glenda Briley MusicMrs. Libby Brown Projects CoordinatorMrs. Leigh Ann Chiles Instructional Enhancement FacilitatorMrs. Kathy Coffey First GradeMrs. Debbie Crews Third GradeMrs. Jennifer Densmore ScienceMrs. Bethany Eze Lower School SecretaryMrs. Amy Francis Financial SecretaryMrs. Tracey Gladish Office/CFE AideMrs. Beverly Gorden Fifth & Sixth GradeMrs. Teresa Hall Instructional AideMrs. Katherine Helms Government & EnglishMrs. Mary Kay Hodges Media CenterMrs. Amy Holdbrooks Instructional AideMrs. Yvonne Holiday Physical EducationMrs. Sandra Howard ScienceMrs. Carole Janorschke Upper School SecretaryMrs. Donna Jarnagin MathMrs. Rosellen Jones Office/CFE AideMrs. Karen Keith ScienceMrs. Tammy Legg Food Service StaffMrs. Becky Linderman Fourth Grade Dr. Cynthia Lovelace MathMrs. Kerstin Lynch Fourth GradeMrs. Alyssa Maddox Third GradeMr. Jason Marshall Physical EducationMrs. Donna Mayo Office/CFE AideMrs. Melissa McCulloch Writing Enhancement FacilitatorMrs. Julie McGough EnglishMr. Steve Meek Physical Education & HistoryMrs. Dustin Mitchell TechnologyMrs. Connie Murray Instructional Enhancement FacilitatorMrs. Kim Parker Health Room FacilitatorMrs. Paizley Peebles First GradeMrs. Leah Reid Fifth & Sixth GradeMrs. Cathy Schmid Fifth & Sixth GradeMrs. Melissa Simpson Food Service StaffMrs. Brenda Smith Second GradeMrs. Sandy Stephenson KindergartenMrs. Sylvia Teague MathMrs. Angie Teichmiller History Mrs. Holly Thompson Athletic SecretaryMrs. Amy Tubbs ArtMrs. Laura Frasher Tuttle EnglishMr. David Walker BandMrs. Irina Washburn RussianMrs. Barbara Wright TechnologyMrs. Angela Wynn English

Scott Mayo, Headmaster

(Continued on Page 3)

Truth is stranger than fiction, or, as the late night comedians say, “You can’t make this stuff up!” We are living in a world in which the phrase “alternative facts” is used with a straight face. This idea is not new – we have had the phrase “fake, but accurate” in our vocabulary since 2004. Recent events have prompted a large scale reprinting of George Orwell’s dystopian novel 1984, a work in which the terms “doublethink” and “newspeak” were ushered into our lives. “Fake news” is now a thing! Is it any wonder, then, that a poll conducted in the U.K., Orwell’s home country, revealed that politicians and journalists rank at the bottom of a list of most trusted/least trusted professionals? How have we gotten to this point, and what does it mean for us as a Christian school? How do we prepare our students for this world?

In the opening article of this newsletter series, I stated that we are now living in what has been called a post-Christian culture. That claim is substantiated by the rapid progression of new norms, new laws, and new definitions about what it means to be human. One particularly descriptive angle, one that illustrates the depths to which we have sunk as a society, is the observation that we are living in a post-truth culture. In fact, the Oxford Dictionary’s Word of the Year for 2016 was “post-truth.” It is defined as an adjective relating to or denoting circumstances in which objective facts are less influential in shaping public opinion than appeals to emotion and personal belief.

We have always struggled with truth. The Fall welcomes mankind into a post-truthful culture. We learn to lie from the father of lies who deceived Eve with the phrase, “Did God really say…?” In scrolling forward to the 21st century, technology has certainly made it easier to lie (e.g. Photoshop) and to immerse ourselves in echo-chambers of hyper-partisan blogs, thereby insulating ourselves from uncomfortable truths. If we practice the lie and wallow in lies long enough, it is easy to lose all touch with truth’s beauty and necessity.

Regardless of the culture, God has not given up on the value of the truth and neither has He updated His commands to us. We are to recognize and revere the truth while practicing truthfulness. We always have and always will teach our students that “The LORD abhors dishonest scales but accurate weights are his delight” (Proverbs 11:1). Our students know that they “…shall not give false testimony...” (Exodus 20:16). Assumed in both of these examples

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BEING COUNTER-CULTURAL

“...until he knew that the Most High God rules the kingdom of mankind and sets over it whom he will.” Daniel 5:21b

Priority Re-Enrollment for 2017-2018Begins Wednesday, March 1, and Ends Sunday, April 2

During the priority re-enrollment (March 1-April 2), you may re-enroll current students including siblings who were not attending Decatur Heritage during the 2016-2017 school year. The registration fee of $175 per student will be discounted to $150 during this time. Additionally, an assessment fee of $75 will be charged for ALL new students. Open enrollment begins Monday, April 3. All re-enrollments received on or after that date will require the full $175 registration fee.

FACTSFor those using the FACTS payment plan, the enrollment fee will be $45. Please contact the finance office to update your FACTS account if your banking information has changed.

If you are not currently enrolled in the FACTS plan and wish to use this option for tuition payments or if you have any other financial questions, please contact Amy Francis in the finance office at 256-432-2691.

Be sure to reserve your spot during the priority re-enrollment period!

ApplicationforTuitionAssistanceFamiliesapplyingfortuitionassistancemaydosoonlineatwww.online.factsmgt.com.

•Youmustregisteryourstudentfortheupcomingschool yearandpaytheregistrationfeetoapplyforassistance.•Assistanceawardsareforoneschoolyear,sofamiliesmustreapplyeachyear.•Thereisanonrefundable$30processingfeepaidtoFACTSuponapplication.•Ifyourfinancialawardisdeniedorisinsufficienttoallowyourchildtoattend,DHCAwillrefundtheregistrationfee.•Ifthereareextenuatingcircumstancesthatyoufeelwouldhelpyouqualifyforadditionalassistance,youmaymakeawrittenrequesttotheTAPcommittee.•Themaximumassistanceawardtoanyfamilyis65%.

2017-2018SCHOOL CALENDAR

Giving to our Annual Fund campaign has allowed us to send $59,837.55 directly to our classrooms so far this year!

Gifts to the Annual Fund make an immediate, positive impact on our operating budget (and give our donors a nice tax deduction).

If you haven’t yet, please consider supporting DHCA through its Annual Fund campaign.

ANNUAL FUND

First Semester

August 8 First Day of School

September 4 Holiday – Labor Day

September 19 Parent Conferences - Student Half-Day Dismissal

October 9 Holiday – Fall Break

November 10 Holiday – Veterans Day

November 20-24 Holiday – Thanksgiving

December 12-15 Upper School Exams

December 15 Classes Dismiss for Holidays

Second Semester

January 4 Classes Resume

January 15** Holiday – MLK Day

February 19** Holiday – Presidents’ Day

March 6 Professional Development - Student Half-Day Dismissal

March 19-23 Holiday – Spring Break

March 30 Holiday - Good Friday

May 22-25 Upper School Exams

May 25 Classes Dismiss for Summer

May 25 Senior Graduation

**Inclement weather make-up days

3Decatur Heritage Christian Academy is a 501-C-3 non-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Memorials, honorariums, and gifts may be mailed to DHCA, P. O. Box 5659, Decatur, AL 35601-0659.

"HEADMASTER'S ACADEMIC SCHOLARS"2nd Quarter 2016-2017

"Students achieving all A's, with no grade below 90including weighted grades for AP & Honor classes."

SEVENTH GRADELauren AcupanLeland BarnettWilliam BarnettBrian BrownAvery ByarsTyler FoundsConnor FrancisAiden GarrissConner McDanielKatelyn McDanielMaci OdomBrooklyn PalmerThomas RossSaxon SampleBeth TrippanyAlisa Washburn

ELEVENTH GRADEMorgan AbercrombieJustin BrownGarret BucknerAnn Whitney ChappellPatrick ChengAaron FrancisEleanor HellardMaggie HelmsJeff HunterSam Harrison MathewsLida OrrMarilyn SampleMason Terrry

TWELFTH GRADEBrianna CagleLogan FiskeHope GladishMaggie HolsclawRiley HurstNam Ju KimClay OliverJacob QuinnOwen TrippanyAbby TubbsDanny Xiao

"HERITAGE ACADEMIC ACHIEVERS"2nd Quarter 2016-2017

“Students achieving all A's and B’s, with no grade below 80including weighted grades for AP & Honor classes."

SEVENTH GRADEKendall KuczekEllie MetzgarCharlie MooresCole O'BrienTyler OliveMary Peyton PropstNash RippenSummer SimsAbbey SmithIsabelle StanleyCaroline ThompsonLydia WilliamsElizabeth WilsonKyleigh Wright

EIGHTH GRADEFlorence BowmanSarah Grace BurneyMaysen DunzweilerMalana PowerKatie Wallace

NINTH GRADECole Garner Mallory HamptonJordan HunterKatie Jones Shelby JonesJackson KyleKatie MarkhamDavis NorthcuttStephen RossAbby TerryPreston TerryAshleigh VickeryEthan Wallace

TENTH GRADEDerrick BishopLizzie BishopHeath BoltonMathew CampbellTate CopelandCaleb Davis Katelyne GarrieReagan GowenEthan HubbardAleah JenkinsWill JonesTaylor NorthcuttMargaret South

ELEVENTH GRADEBailey FoundsLily Catherine HollandWalker JonesNathan LadnerKarsyn LemleyTrace Lentz Jared Little Cory LongBrooklyn ParkerCarson SolleyMerrick StaffordSeth Thompson

TWELFTH GRADEAndrea AyersDestinee BlaxtonAvery BowmanCassidy CheathamKaitlyn Cheatham Jacob DensmoreKayla GrimesJohn Reese Hamn Emily HerbertJackson KeithSusie KingTaylor LindleyAnna Cait MathewsShawn MetzgarCameron ParkerGrayson Wakefield

Blessed are those who find wisdom, and those who gain understanding...Proverbs 3:13

NINTH GRADEDavid BrownTegwen BucknerLauren CagleSeaborn ChappellCatherine FiskeCaleb JohnsonColton KeithMason LentzNolan LightBen LovelaceStratton OrrGarrett RogersCarter Sample

EIGHTH GRADEEmakay ArnoldMichael ChengJustin DensmoreMaddie EubanksEmily HubbardJuliana HudryEnsley JohnsonDaija MilamLucy OrrDavid RodenClay SmithHouston SouthMaddux Terry

TENTH GRADEAmelia ByarsEllie HamnGrace Haulie JohnsonJustin McCleskeyIan Metzgar

is the idea that truth has inherent value (which we know to be the case because God has said it). What of a culture, though, that denies the very existence of the classical concept of truth?

Words and arguments are not measured for their truthfulness, but rather for whether they are convincing. Facts, real or imagined, are just rhetorical means to an end. Into that world, how might we best be counter-cultural? I submit that living a public life of honesty and integrity, even when it works against us pragmatically, can be an incredibly powerful statement. Anyone can be honest when he stands to benefit from it. Being truthful to one’s own detriment is an entirely different thing, one that won’t make any sense to someone who sees language and action as power plays. Can you even imagine a public figure taking full public ownership of his actions? What about a newspaper printing retractions in a large font on the front page instead of tucked away inside?

What is so comforting in all this is that God is still on His throne. Our current cultural malaise fits well within the bounds of His governance. Thousands of years ago, in anticipation of post-truth culture, God instructed His people on how they might dwell in His sanctuary and live on His holy hill. The man who can live there is the man “who keeps his oath even when it hurts” (Psalm 15:4). Pray that we can teach our students this truth and can model it for them as we prepare to send them out into a world that has turned its back on this concept.

(Continued from front cover)

4 “OUR MISSION is to assist families by providing their children with an education

HERITAGE HEADLINES

Connor Francisas Fa Zhou

Morgan Abercrombieas Mulan

Maggie Holsclaw as Match Maker

Performances :Friday, May 5, 7pm, $10

Saturday, May 6, 7pm, $10 Monday, May 8, 1:30pm

$10 adul t , $5 s tudent sCafe tor iumYao Cheng

as Older Yi

Beth Trippanyas Fa Li

Owen Trippany as Shang

Kinsley Hill, Katrinka Corry, Ashleigh Vickery, Ann Whitney Chappell, and Grace Haulie Johnsonas Ancestors

Masterp i eceproudly pre sent s

Knowledge is in the air when you step into the Decatur Heritage computer lab. Both the Lower and Upper School students are learning invaluable technology skills under the instruction of Mrs. Dustin Mitchell. The kindergarten is learning all the key functions of the computer from correctly clicking the mouse to typing sight words. Our first graders have already become experts at logging in and out of their computers while enhancing other technical proficiencies. The second graders have been creating and printing their own stories using Microsoft Word. The third grade has created their own Microsoft calendars and Word documents. As our fourth graders continue to do research for class projects, they have become very talented at navigating through Alabama Virtual Library. The fifth graders have been combining their Word document knowledge and tech-savvy virtual library abilities to construct classmate interviews. The sixth graders have developed several Excel spreadsheets using classmate information and school functions for topics. The seventh grade class has already completed numerous projects using Word, Excel and PowerPoint. They are now learning to create impressive audio and visual video presentations. The eighth graders did remarkably well on their computer technology quiz and are now learning advanced functions in crafting dynamic video presentations.

Happening in the Technology Suite...

Conner McDaniel as Mushu

Jackson McDaniel as Shan Yu

Katelyn McDaniel as Ling

Elizabeth Wilson (’22) works on a PowerPoint presentation.

Stephen Ross (’22) prepares a report assignment.

Selena Vo (’22) and Alisa Washburn (’22) develop a PowerPoint project.

Gabe Wallace (’22) designs a photo collection.

Why We Chose Decatur Heritage...

NotbeingnativestoDecatur,myhusbandandIfoundourselvesfeelingcompletelylostasouroldestchildwasquicklyapproachingschoolage.Havingtaughtinpublicschool,IfeltverystronglythatIshouldhomeschoolbothofourchildren.Myhusband,ontheotherhand,whohadattendedasmallprivateChristianschoolfromkindergartenthroughgraduation,feltdifferently.Hebegantourgemetoexploreprivateschooloptions,butIwashesitantandjustcouldn’treallyseehowitcouldbethatdifferentfromapublicschoolsetting.WebegantolookatandprayaboutouroptionsandsooncameacrossDecaturHeritage.AtourFirstvisit,Iwasblownawaybythenurturingenvironmentandintimateclasssettingsbutwasstillapprehensive.Weapplied,butasthesummerprogressed,Icontinuouslytoldmyselfshewasn’tready.Iwasconvincedweneededtogiveitonemoreyear.DuringthelastweekofJuly,myhusbandsatmedownandtoldmehowstronglyhefeltaboutussendinghertoDecaturHeritage.Ireluctantlyagreed.

Fastforwardayearandahalf,wehaveawell-adjustedFirstgraderwhoisconFidentandindependent.WeareamazedathowsheisdevelopingherownindividualrelationshipwithGodandisbecominggroundedinherfaithatsixyearsold.Wecannotbegintoexpressthethankfulnessthatwefeelforthenurturingenvironmentandstrongbiblicalfoundationuponwhichourdaughter’seducationisbeingbuiltandfortheteachers,administrators,andstaffthathelpreinforcethebiblicalworld-lifeviewwetrytoinstillinourchildreneveryday.Webelievethechurch,theschool,andthehomearethethreepillarsthatprovidethefoundationforachild’sdevelopment,muchlikeathree-leggedstool.Isimplydidnotknowweweremissingaleg!WearesoincrediblythankfulthatGodmadeawayforustobepartoftheDHCAfamily.IamconFidentthatwemadetheabsolutebestchoiceandwearelookingforwardtooursonstartinginthefall!

Withloveandblessings,

The Wilkersons

Now open to current DHCA students

REGISTRATION DATES: March 14 - returning campersMarch 28 - open to the public

Register at www.dhca.org

Reese, Rusty, Jenna, and

Reagan Wilkerson

During the month of April, plan to buy your spring ferns for your porch or for family and friends and support the Decatur Heritage Parent Association. Ferns will be sold each weekend, as well as several weekdays, at the yellow building on 14th Street, SW across from Carden’s Barber Shop.

Watch for details soon!Fundraiser sponsored by

Decatur Heritage Parent Association

spring is coming...

5tha t i s exce l l en t and wh ich in s t i l l s B ib l i ca l p r inc ip l e s to gu ide the i r l i ve s .”

Why We Chose Decatur Heritage...

NotbeingnativestoDecatur,myhusbandandIfoundourselvesfeelingcompletelylostasouroldestchildwasquicklyapproachingschoolage.Havingtaughtinpublicschool,IfeltverystronglythatIshouldhomeschoolbothofourchildren.Myhusband,ontheotherhand,whohadattendedasmallprivateChristianschoolfromkindergartenthroughgraduation,feltdifferently.Hebegantourgemetoexploreprivateschooloptions,butIwashesitantandjustcouldn’treallyseehowitcouldbethatdifferentfromapublicschoolsetting.WebegantolookatandprayaboutouroptionsandsooncameacrossDecaturHeritage.AtourFirstvisit,Iwasblownawaybythenurturingenvironmentandintimateclasssettingsbutwasstillapprehensive.Weapplied,butasthesummerprogressed,Icontinuouslytoldmyselfshewasn’tready.Iwasconvincedweneededtogiveitonemoreyear.DuringthelastweekofJuly,myhusbandsatmedownandtoldmehowstronglyhefeltaboutussendinghertoDecaturHeritage.Ireluctantlyagreed.

Fastforwardayearandahalf,wehaveawell-adjustedFirstgraderwhoisconFidentandindependent.WeareamazedathowsheisdevelopingherownindividualrelationshipwithGodandisbecominggroundedinherfaithatsixyearsold.Wecannotbegintoexpressthethankfulnessthatwefeelforthenurturingenvironmentandstrongbiblicalfoundationuponwhichourdaughter’seducationisbeingbuiltandfortheteachers,administrators,andstaffthathelpreinforcethebiblicalworld-lifeviewwetrytoinstillinourchildreneveryday.Webelievethechurch,theschool,andthehomearethethreepillarsthatprovidethefoundationforachild’sdevelopment,muchlikeathree-leggedstool.Isimplydidnotknowweweremissingaleg!WearesoincrediblythankfulthatGodmadeawayforustobepartoftheDHCAfamily.IamconFidentthatwemadetheabsolutebestchoiceandwearelookingforwardtooursonstartinginthefall!

Withloveandblessings,

The Wilkersons

Now open to current DHCA students

REGISTRATION DATES: March 14 - returning campersMarch 28 - open to the public

Register at www.dhca.org

Reese, Rusty, Jenna, and

Reagan Wilkerson

During the month of April, plan to buy your spring ferns for your porch or for family and friends and support the Decatur Heritage Parent Association. Ferns will be sold each weekend, as well as several weekdays, at the yellow building on 14th Street, SW across from Carden’s Barber Shop.

Watch for details soon!Fundraiser sponsored by

Decatur Heritage Parent Association

spring is coming...

6

written by Jacob QuinnPresident, Class of 2017

SENIOR

SCOPE

2nd Annual DHCA Healthy HeritageStudent Mile

Friday, March 10, 2017

4th Annual DHCA Healthy Heritage 5KSaturday, March 11, 2017

Markthe

Dates

All Lower School students will participate in this event wearing their Healthy Heritage t-

Come out and cheer the walkers and runners!

The senior class has been working very hard this school year raising money for our senior cruise. We are extremely excited to go on this long-awaited trip. The senior trip will be one of the last times we will make memories together as a class. I would like to thank the school and each parent for supporting us as we hosted events and raised money. I would especially like to thank our senior class sponsors, Mrs. Keith and Mrs. Tubbs, for their support. We are incredibly grateful for the time and effort they have put into seeing our class succeed. As we get closer to graduation, we anticipate a new start at college to further our education. Let us continue to stay focused on our current education to finish strong and maintain our devotion to God to prepare for the challenges that lie ahead.

Congratulations to Juliana Hudry!

Juliana (’21) won the 2017 Morgan County Spelling Bee. She will compete in the

State Spelling Bee on March 11 in Alabaster.

The DHCA Band thanks you for your support of the strawberry sale. The proceeds will be used to to buy instruments, repair instruments, purchase music, and other band related expenses.

STEMScience, Technology, Engineering, and Math

“WE HAD STEM TODAY!!!!” Hopefully you heard this from your child in recent months. Classes for K-6 have been a great success. Students are given a variety of challenges that focus on collaborative learning empowering them to be an active participant in the learning process. Maria Young and Tammy Pickens, retired UAH Alabama Math Science and Technology Initiative (AMSTI) instructors, create lessons that revolve around opened-ended problems resulting in a product or solving real world problems. The year began with understanding the engineering design process. Each month has a theme which is aligned vertically. For example, in January, we challenged the students to develop Lunar Rovers in K-2, a Lunar Lander in 3-4 and a thrill ride for Mars in 5-6. The STEM instructors have seen an increase in higher-quality reasoning strategies, more new ideas, and solutions to problems. The goal is to increase communication, thinking, and leadership skills.

Lenox Scott, Adeline Burney, Jinger Heath, and Macy Holland (all class of 2023) are pictured left showing excitement that straws, string, and tape designed correctly could hold a tennis ball a specified distance from the table.

The expression on the face of Zackrey Whaley (’27) says it all-amazed with the results of his experiment!

The Forensic Team represented by Grace Haulie Johnson (’19), Cole Garner (’20), Carter Sample (’20), Stratton Orr (’20), Ian Metzgar (’19), and Justin McCleskey (’19) competed in the Hall of Fame Tournament held at the University of Alabama as well as the Betty Gunn Invitational held at Mountain Brook High School. Team members competed in dramatic, poetry, interpretation, the Novice Lincoln-Douglas debate, and the Varsity Lincoln-Douglas debate. They earned top awards as well as speaker points. Well done!

Visit our website at www.dhca.org.

7

HERITAGE HIGHLIGHTS

Decatur Heritage Christian Academy is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and is a member in good standing with the Association of Christian Schools International.

Newsletter photos courtesy of

PinterestInterestRoboticsBaseballBallet

TheJoyofPaintingBricks4Kidz

JuniorScientistsCooking

Spring2017April5-May10

Registrationavailableatwww.dhca.org

Drew Hodge

Classesinclude:

Drew Hodgealumnus 2013

GolfSoccer

TumblingVolleyball

Thank you, Mr. Tim Ballentine, for sharing your talents!

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Thank you to Tommy and Nell Lentz, o w n e r s o f C a d d o C a f e t e r i a a n d grandparents of Mason and Trace Lentz, for providing lunch for the students of Decatur Heritage recently. You are such a blessing to our school!

Located at6091 County Road 434

Trinity, AL 256-974-5535

My name is Drew Hodge and I’m a proud 2013 graduate. I had the opportunity to attend DHCA from 5th through 12th grade and I can easily say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life. I attended DHCA in kindergarten, but for most of elementary school I attended public school. When I transferred, it was a completely different world. The school was so caring and supportive. I immediately recognized that both teachers and students were different at DHCA. They were there because they wanted to be. We were there not only for an education, but also to build each other up in Christ and train and equip ourselves for the real world.

Classmates were supportive and accepting and, for the first time, I felt that I could be myself. I began the long journey of discovering who I am in Christ and what He has for me. It’s a beautiful thing to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Everyone has gifts, a calling, a purpose, and the ability to make a difference in the lives of others. This is something that DHCA taught me well. Acting out plays for Mrs. Cimino’s English class in various different accents, convincing Mrs. Holland to pogo stick for us, leading worship at chapel, playing the scarecrow in our school play, and filming the last week of high school and senior trip are among some of my favorite memories. These are just a few, though! I could probably write a book compiling all the good times I had with my friends and teachers.

School wasn’t all just fun and games; it was very challenging at times! DHCA prepared me for college in so many ways. When I arrived at Auburn University, I knew how to study and various methods of approach to preparing for classes, projects, and exams that my friends who had not come from DHCA did not know. College hasn’t been easy but it has been so much better than what it would’ve been had I not gone to DHCA. With every assignment and project that was given to me, I knew what to do, thanks to my instructors all throughout high school who taught me the art and discipline of studying and time management. This brings me to my next point – Bible classes.

To any student currently attending the school, I say, “Take heart!” These classes are well worth your time and the extra work. I cannot emphasize this enough. Looking back, I can clearly see that pressing in and diving deep into God’s Word is something that equips you for life in more ways than one. It prepares you for every season of the soul. On the mountaintop and in the valley, God is there with you. For me, these classes were the turning point in which I had to decide whether following Christ was going to be a cultural thing, what my parents did, or a personal relationship. Studying worldviews/religions and writing a personal manifesto gave me confidence and helped me establish the credibility I needed for college life. 1 Peter 3:15 tells us to be “prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.”

Today, we stand in Christ’s victory – something we could never do on our own; something we don’t deserve. He saved us from ourselves, saved us from death, depression, anxiety, guilt, hopelessness, and raised us up to a place where we can live amazing purpose-filled lives. He’s the reason we can find strength to face each day in every season of the soul. It’s not always easy! Through it all, He is faithful.

Newsletter photos courtesy of

PinterestInterestRoboticsBaseballBallet

TheJoyofPaintingBricks4Kidz

JuniorScientistsCooking

Spring2017April5-May10

Registrationavailableatwww.dhca.org

Drew Hodge

Classesinclude:

Drew Hodgealumnus 2013

GolfSoccer

TumblingVolleyball

Thank you, Mr. Tim Ballentine, for sharing your talents!

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

Thank you to Tommy and Nell Lentz, o w n e r s o f C a d d o C a f e t e r i a a n d grandparents of Mason and Trace Lentz, for providing lunch for the students of Decatur Heritage recently. You are such a blessing to our school!

Located at6091 County Road 434

Trinity, AL 256-974-5535

My name is Drew Hodge and I’m a proud 2013 graduate. I had the opportunity to attend DHCA from 5th through 12th grade and I can easily say it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life. I attended DHCA in kindergarten, but for most of elementary school I attended public school. When I transferred, it was a completely different world. The school was so caring and supportive. I immediately recognized that both teachers and students were different at DHCA. They were there because they wanted to be. We were there not only for an education, but also to build each other up in Christ and train and equip ourselves for the real world.

Classmates were supportive and accepting and, for the first time, I felt that I could be myself. I began the long journey of discovering who I am in Christ and what He has for me. It’s a beautiful thing to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Everyone has gifts, a calling, a purpose, and the ability to make a difference in the lives of others. This is something that DHCA taught me well. Acting out plays for Mrs. Cimino’s English class in various different accents, convincing Mrs. Holland to pogo stick for us, leading worship at chapel, playing the scarecrow in our school play, and filming the last week of high school and senior trip are among some of my favorite memories. These are just a few, though! I could probably write a book compiling all the good times I had with my friends and teachers.

School wasn’t all just fun and games; it was very challenging at times! DHCA prepared me for college in so many ways. When I arrived at Auburn University, I knew how to study and various methods of approach to preparing for classes, projects, and exams that my friends who had not come from DHCA did not know. College hasn’t been easy but it has been so much better than what it would’ve been had I not gone to DHCA. With every assignment and project that was given to me, I knew what to do, thanks to my instructors all throughout high school who taught me the art and discipline of studying and time management. This brings me to my next point – Bible classes.

To any student currently attending the school, I say, “Take heart!” These classes are well worth your time and the extra work. I cannot emphasize this enough. Looking back, I can clearly see that pressing in and diving deep into God’s Word is something that equips you for life in more ways than one. It prepares you for every season of the soul. On the mountaintop and in the valley, God is there with you. For me, these classes were the turning point in which I had to decide whether following Christ was going to be a cultural thing, what my parents did, or a personal relationship. Studying worldviews/religions and writing a personal manifesto gave me confidence and helped me establish the credibility I needed for college life. 1 Peter 3:15 tells us to be “prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.”

Today, we stand in Christ’s victory – something we could never do on our own; something we don’t deserve. He saved us from ourselves, saved us from death, depression, anxiety, guilt, hopelessness, and raised us up to a place where we can live amazing purpose-filled lives. He’s the reason we can find strength to face each day in every season of the soul. It’s not always easy! Through it all, He is faithful.

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SPORTS SCENE

Decatur Heritage Christian Academy is a member of the Alabama High School Athletic Association.

2016-2017 Football AwardsThe Decatur Daily Class 1A-4A All-Area Football Team

VOLLEYBALL AWARDS

Grayson WakefieldJeff HunterJackson Keith Ben McGough

Volleyball coach Kelly Garland was named the 2016 Coach of the Year by The Decatur Daily.

Congratulations, Coach Garland!

The Decatur Daily All-Area Team

SPRING SPORT SENIOR ATHLETES

Baseball

Softball

Baileigh Evans

COACHOF THEYEAR

Jacob McCamon Jackson Eubanks

Kaitlyn CheathamKayla Grimes Cassidy Cheatham Maggie Holsclaw Hope Gladish Timara Bowers

Grayson Wakefield Clay Shaw

Destinee BlaxtonTennis

Brianna Cagle

Avery Bowman Abby Tubbs Nam Ju Kim

Timara Bowers, seated, is pictured with her dad Tim, Coach Kelly Garland, and mom M e l i n d a a f t e r s i g n i n g a commitment to continue a volleyball career at Snead State Community College in Boaz, Alabama. Congratulations!

Signing Day

Jackson Keith

Golf and Soccer Seniors will be announced in the May newsletter

Timara Bowers

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The Booster Club is excited to announce that during the last year it has provided over $42,000 in funding at the request of the athletic department. Here are highlights of the items approved and funded:

• Cheerleaders- paint and supplies for banners• Volleyball- breast cancer jerseys • Football- replaced helmets to comply with

current concussion requirements and training sled pads

• Basketball- uniforms for boys' and girls' teams• Softball - practice equipment and balls, helmets,

protective screens, and a training machine• Baseball - practice equipment and balls,

helmets, bats, additional jerseys for new players, and championship rings

• Golf - team golf balls• Tennis - uniforms for boys’ and girls’ teams• Soccer - practice equipment, balls, and

additional jerseys for new players• Track- uniforms and equipment• All Sports- team meals and transportation for

playoff games, stools for scorers' table, popcorn machine, cordless microphone for the gym, sand and dirt for field maintenance, fryer for concession stand, video software, coaching apparel, and lawnmower

We are very thankful for the members and supporters of the Booster Club. Without you, none of this is possible.The Booster Club stands ready to assist the athletic department in providing for our student athletes by working closely with Coach Patterson to evaluate and accommodate needs.We welcome your involvement and encourage those with interest to contact Leif Founds (205)215-7378 or [email protected] and get involved now.The purpose of the Booster Club is to support the athletic department’s goal to build a state-championship caliber program across a variety of sports. We accomplish this effort by promoting parent, student, and alumni involvement recognizing the efforts of our student athletes, and engaging in responsible fundraising activities to provide items that go beyond the normal scope of the athletic department’s budget.

2017 STATE OF THE BOOSTER CLUB

Go Eagles and please support the Booster Club!

SPRING SPORTSARE IN FULL SWING!

Varsity BaseballMarch 4 at Hackleburg

JV BaseballMarch 2 at Lawrence County

Middle School BaseballMarch 2 at Elkmont

SoftballMarch 3 & 4 in Decatur Tournament at Wilson Morgan Park

GolfMarch 3 vs Falkville at Point Mallard

Girls’ TennisMarch 2 at Hartselle

Boys’ TennisMarch 2 at Hartselle

SoccerMarch 2 at New Hope

Full schedules available at www.dhca.org/athletics

Team members Clay Shaw, Jake Newton, Abby Terry, Garrett Rogers, Seaborn Chappell, and Seth Thompson

Our team represented DHCA at regional shoots and in the national event in Sparta, Illinois where we placed 4th in our division nationally.

Team members listed below earned individual honors:

Clay - 2017 20-20.5 AIM Handicap, 5th place, and 2017 All-State Team

Abby - 1st in Rebel Yell 200 Singles winning the Lady 1 division

Seth - 1st place for Junior Handicap and 1st place for Singles D both at Big Springs Clay Target Tournament

Shooting Team

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Sandy Stephenson’s

Birthday

Spring Holidays

Paizley Peebles’ Birthday

Baseball, softball, tennis, golf, girls’ soccer, and track and field continues.....schedules available at

www.dhca.org/athletics/schedules

Report cards available via

Patty Annerton’s Birthday

Kerstin Lynch’s Birthday

Heather Sasser’s Birthday

Early Student Dismissal

andFaculty Inservice

Main SchoolParking Lot

8am

2nd Annual Student Mile

Traci Gladish’s Birthday

MARCH

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Debbie Bishop’s Birthday

Mike Holiday’s Birthday

Mary KayHodges’Birthday

Follow DHCA spring sportsSchedules available at www.dhca.org/athletics/schedules

Progress reportsavailable via

JuniorSeniorPromPrincess Theatre

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Terra Nova Testing - Grades 7 & 8

Terra Nova Testing - Grades 3 through 6

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NONPROFITU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDDecatur, AL

35601Permit No. 805

RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED

Decatur Heritage Christian Academy is a 501-C-3 non-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Memorials, honorariums, and gifts may be mailed to DHCA, P. O. Box 5659, Decatur, AL 35601-0659.

P.O. Box 5659 • Decatur, Alabama 35601 • 256.351.4275

Priority Re-enrollment

Open Enrollment

Heritage Preview

Begins April 3Contact Mrs. Connie Murray at [email protected] for details.

Continues through April 2Application Fee $150 through April 2

Application Fee $175 if received after printed deadlineTo secure your student’s spot, take advantage of priority

re-enrollment beginning March 1 through April 2.

If you or anyone you know is considering Decatur Heritage as an education option, tours are available daily from 9am to 2pm.

It is a great opportunity to witness a school day in actionand meet with an administrator.

volume 17, issue 5 march - april 2017 being counter-cultural · 2019-12-14 · 2016–2017 march -...

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