Cascade Christian Chronicle 2015-16 Issue 3 by Cascade Christian Schools

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Dedicated to Developing Discerning Leaders Don Johnson Superintendent of Schools Tim Kleefeld, CPA Director of Business Rob Mitton Director of Development Susan Crawford Director of Marketing and Communications Kristin Hannus Director of Extended School Dr. Ken Friesen High School Principal Dave Peterson Assistant High School Principal Dr. Glenna Frederick Junior High Principal International Program Director Keith Patefield JH/HS Athletic Director Joyce Blum Director of Student Learning Principal McAlder Campus

Tacoma Campus Celebrates

Artists Shine at Spring Performances

Students Excel with 21st Century Tools

Terry Broberg Principal Puyallup Elementary Tina deVries Principal Frederickson and Tacoma Campuses Karen Curtiss Director Puyallup Early Learning Center This issue of the Chronicle reported and written by CCS Puyallup Elementary Teacher and CCS Parent, Kristy Bingham. Additional articles written by contriburing writers and students as indicated. Design and layout by CCS Parent Michelle De Monnin for De Monninâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Art Studio, Inc. The Chronicle is a publication of Cascade Christian Schools, an interdenominational school district in Pierce County, Washington. On the Cover: CCHS Valedictorian Jane Cooksley (R) and Salutatorian Emma Suiter (L) Cover photo by: De Monninâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Art Studio, Inc. Additional photography in this issue by Michelle De Monnin, Stuart Rich, Kara Barnett, Ashley Mowreader and other CCS community members.

For more information about Cascade Christian Schools:

cascadechristian.org | 253-841-1776

Development/Business Partner information: Rob Mitton Story ideas for the Cascade Chronicle: Susan Crawford Cascade Christian Schools Notice of Nondiscriminatory Policy as to Students Cascade Christian Schools admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs.

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As this school year comes to a close and I reflect back on all that has occurred since September, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m thankful that we have so many wonderful people and events to celebrate. This year brought the consolidation of our Tacoma campus with the rest of our elementary schools. CCS is a large family, and our friends at the Tacoma campus have been welcomed with open arms and hearts into our Frederickson, McAlder and Puyallup campuses, where our students and their families will continue to flourish and contribute to the success of their new campus family. We bid farewell to Junior High Principal Glenna Frederick, who is moving into retirement and more time with her family. Dr. Frederick has accomplished so much, wearing so many administrative hats throughout her nineteen years at CCS with her last being Junior High Principal and Director of the International Program. She will be greatly missed, on many levels, most of all as my friend and colleague. Of course, the end of the school year is actually a new beginning for our seniors. What an accomplished group of individuals we graduated on June 3, 2016! Share in celebrating with me the Class of 2016, enjoy the photos, and be inspired by the stories of our Valedictorian and Salutatorian. Our focus, always, is on the students and families that make Cascade Christian Schools the wonderful place that it is for children to grow, thrive and learn. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m so proud and thankful for each person highlighted in this summer Chronicle! My thanks and appreciation to our administrators, teachers, staff, students and families for another amazing year completed and in the books! May each of you have a blessed, fun and safe summer break! Don Johnson,

Superintendent of Schools

Locations www.cascadechristian.org

Transforming cultures through teaching and training people in their purpose before God.

Puyallup Elementary | 601 9th Avenue SE | Puyallup, WA 98372 | 253-841-2091

Mission

Puyallup Early Learning Center | 1818 S Meridian | Puyallup, WA 98371 | 253-848-7165

To glorify God by providing quality, Christ-centered education dedicated to developing discerning leaders who are spiritually, personally, and academically prepared to impact their world.

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STAFF PROFILE

Frederick Completes a Career of Impact and Influence After 35 years in Christian education, Junior High Principal Glenna Frederick has wrapped up a blessed career, and retired at the end of the 2015-16 school year. Coming to Cascade Christian Schools in 1997, the past 19 years have included the roles of Junior High/High School Vice Principal; Dean of Academics and Instruction; Director of Curricular and Professional Development; Assistant Superintendent of the Secondary Program; International Program Director since 2003 and, most recently, Junior High Principal/International Program Director.

Frederick previously taught at Seattle Christian, and as she finished her principal internship, ready to go into administration, she learned that Cascade Christian was looking for a Vice Principal. She felt the Lord leading her into administration at CCS. While working at Cascade Christian, Frederick also earned her Doctorate degree. She said the degree was a challenging goal that gave her the opportunity to grow and learn. “I also wanted to increase my ability to influence, and so majoring in Educational Leadership allowed me to impact teachers, who in turn would impact students,” Frederick said.

As she reflects on the many memories in her tenure, she said it is impossible to pick just one. While serving as the Vice Principal and Associated Student Body (ASB) advisor, her youngest son attended CCS and was part of the ASB team. “I took the high school ASB team up to Ohanapecosh Campground on the east side of Mt. Rainier for a team building/planning retreat,” she remembers. “We spent quality time getting to know each other, studying leadership through the Word, and setting goals for the school year. This adventure became a tradition during

my tenure as ASB advisor.” She said each trip provided opportunities for hiking, campfire storytelling, and individual reflection and growth. “The first year they did this, the team members came back to school and did a prayer walk around campus including the district office. This was a passionate group of teens who wanted to make sure their school was real and on fire for Jesus,” she explained. “Fifteen years later, these same team members are impacting others for Christ all over the world.” Frederick appreciates many improvements she’s seen in her time at CCS, including the refinement of the Guiding

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STAFF PROFILE

Principles several years ago through adding explanations and scripture. “This has allowed us to maintain the identity of our organization and to reinforce who we are throughout the years,” she said. “We have become more aligned as a

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I have always felt my calling in life was to come alongside others and help them see their potential and spur them on to be who God created them to be…

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whole district. The mission that was developed in 1992 continues to happen today more deeply in the life of each student, parent, teacher, and administrator, as CCS teaches and trains people in their purpose before God.” “We keep getting better,” she added. “We have developed collegial relationships among and between faculty and administration through professional learning communities (IMPACT Learning Teams), and we have expanded our IMPACT leadership program through the I-Term experience for all secondary students, so that it focuses on service and impacting their world. By implementing 21st century tools and skills, we are making sure our students are fully prepared to succeed at the next level. I could go on and on and on - basically it boils down to the fact that we are a Christ-centered learning institution and we model it from the inside out!” There are also a few accomplishments she said she will look back on fondly, including the development and implementation of the International Program; the integration of STEM into the secondary curriculum, student leadership, the Junior High Connect Retreat, student-led conferences, and DigiTech in the Junior High Program.

opportunities to brainstorm solutions and create new possibilities that happen in a teaching and learning environment,” she added. “I have always felt my calling in life was to come alongside others and help them see their potential and spur them on to be who God created them to be....whether it be working with students or with adults; it has been such a privilege to be in a position of influence and encouragement.” “I like the fact that I have been able to do a variety of things here, but I’m a here-and-now person, so my favorite role was the one I was currently doing,” she said. “Being Junior High Principal has been a wonderful experience and the best way to end my tenure here. Junior High students surprise me with their refreshing spontaneity and innocence. They are not afraid to try new things, and have great imaginations and creativity. There is nothing they cannot do if they put their minds to it and are given enough encouragement and freedom to try some things outside the box. They have reminded me that laughter is the best possible medicine for anything that ails me. They have taught me that simple heartfelt prayers are answered and that God’s Word is sustaining. I have learned to never underestimate their resilience nor their passion for living, never minimize their struggles and hurts, and never limit their perspectives by replacing them with my own. When I see them in the morning and ask them how they are doing, they often ask me how I’m doing in return — how cool is that?” As she heads into retirement, her immediate plans are simple: “Right now my plans are pretty relaxed... we have grandchildren, and so they will be the first priority,” Frederick said. “I am a learner, and so in time, will probably pursue some new avenue of learning. I am excited to have a flexible schedule....and anticipate that the Lord has something in store, but hasn’t revealed it to me yet.”

Frederick said part of what she has loved the most about serving on the administrative team is the collaboration with others. “The synergy that comes from tossing around ideas and dreaming of what can be...rolling up our sleeves and making those dreams realities,” is exciting to her, she said. “The administrative team is a safe, caring place where I can be who I am and express ideas without fear of criticism or negative responses. The leadership team is committed to God, CCS, and each other....and expresses that commitment with humility, understanding, and acceptance. I have been greatly blessed by this team!” “Working here has allowed me to make some very dear and special friends, and I will miss the day-to-day

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CCS FAMILY PROFILE

Well Worth the Opportunity Well before it was time to enroll their first-born in Kindergarten, Shawn and Cristi Taylor prayed and talked with many people who had chosen private education. With all the wisdom they gathered, one thing rang true: that the sacrifice of finances and time was well worth the opportunity to immerse their children in an education based on biblical truth. Several years later, there are three: Zack is in fourth grade, Josh is in third, and Nathan will be a Kindergartner in the fall.

positive impression of what CCS was about, so that when it came to the time to make a decision, it really was an easy one. They very much felt like God was pointing them to that decision. “We have come back year after year for the same reasons we initially

“Teaching our kids a biblical worldview in a consistent way, outside of our home as well as at home, was very important,” Cristi Taylor explained. We surely did not want to have to un-teach and reteach what was taught, and that feat seemed overwhelming and impossible at a certain level. We had made a decision to homeschool, but that was before our second son was born, and we realized God had something else for our family.” The Taylors had heard of Cascade Christian well before getting a chance to be part of it. “I remember when I was in a local public school, hearing about kids transferring (to CCS), and I thought it was an academic prep school for privileged Christian kids,” Cristi explained. “Later, my best friend student-taught at the high school, and early in our marriage, we knew families with kids at the elementary. Also, my sister participated in sports at a Christian school that competed against Cascade Christian. Watching the character development of the CCS students also drew us to Cascade Christian.” She said those interactions gave them a

morning, they are safe and loved, and that the teachers they are with are using their strengths to add value to our kids.” “The teachers have done an excellent job in identifying our children’s personal strengths academically, and especially in their character. They have helped to encourage, draw out, and build on those strengths,” she continued. “We have been so impressed with the ‘extras’ that help our kids to grow as individuals: family chapel, student-led worship, upper grade buddies, seeing high school leadership through I-Term and basketball clinics, achievement recognition, peer encouragement, and excellent music programs. We are excited to see them grow and excel as they get older.” The more they have gotten involved, the more humbled they have been by the vision and heart of the leadership in the schools. Cristi serves the Puyallup Elementary campus as part of the Parents for Cascade leadership team. “Her gentle, godly spirit helps her leadership to be received well,” said Mr. Broberg. “Both Shawn and Cristi are great encouragers. Many times they have shared a few words with me that lifted my spirit,” he added.

came, and so much more,” Cristi said. “We have been very pleased with the quality of education and the creative ways they teach and demonstrate biblical values and life skills - especially communication and leadership development, discipleship, and emphasis on important character qualities like the 3R’s (respect, responsibility, and relationship). We have complete peace of mind that when we drop them off in the

“I have gotten to meet with Mr. Broberg over the course of this year, and he does not take lightly his calling to lead our school and staff, and to disciple and impact the next generation for Jesus and a care for each child,” Cristi said. “We love getting postcards that our family and children have been prayed for individually, and if our children have a request, it is specifically lifted up.” To her family, the most important things CCS offers include an opportunity for wise counsel, and

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high moral and spiritual standards. She said there are well-rounded, responsible individuals with boldness and passion for Jesus who work at Cascade Christian. She knows her kids will go into adulthood with an unshakable foundation built on Jesus, and a willingness to follow Him and say ‘yes’ to His calling. Cristi said that when their children near graduation, they don’t want to look back and regret any major decisions, especially where their kids’ hearts are concerned. She acknowledges that, for most people, it is a huge financial sacrifice to choose private education, and jokes that they give up a lot of the cultural norms like Disneyland and fancy meals. “Even though we are sometimes saying ‘no’ financially to good and fun things during this process, we are choosing the BEST for them by being here,” she said. “Looking back, we will say all the stuff we gave up, and the time we invested at Cascade Christian was well worth it!” “We have had moments where we questioned our financial juggling over tears because our money didn’t stretch as far as it needed to,” she softly said. “We have to remind each other at times to put it back into perspective because our minds so easily gravitate toward things, or the ‘what ifs?’ Thankfully, God has His own economics. Remember the story of the coin in the fish’s mouth? This has been an area that we have had to trust God in, and it has strengthened our faith in Him as our provider.” When asked if she has any advice for prospective parents considering CCS, she simply said they should check it out for themselves and form their own opinion. “Other people’s advice is great, but in the end, those kids are given to us to care for - make it a prayerful choice!”

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CAMPUS FOCUS Consolidation 2016

“What has the Tacoma Campus meant to you?”

Don Johnson, Superintendent “The Tacoma campus means a great deal to me, especially since I had the privilege of having started Peoples Christian School Elementary on that campus when I was 25 years old before it became Cascade Christian Schools in 1992. With this rich history, we have seen hundreds of students go through that campus who are now impacting their world for Christ. So many wonderful administrators, faculty and staff have invested in the lives of our students in a family atmosphere at this campus. The Tacoma campus legacy will move on throughout CCS and multiply into the future!” Gloria Shackett, kindergarten teacher “Cascade Christian Schools has meant so much to myself and my family. It has been so much more than just a place to work or a school to attend. It has been a place to grow spiritually, build friendships, gain knowledge, be a part of a supportive, caring family of co-workers, as well as a source of

joy in serving our God. I am deeply grateful for all the love and support I have received from co-workers, students and parents during my season at Cascade Christian Schools Tacoma.” LeeAnn Veltung, administrative assistant “Seems like just a couple of years ago that I was so excited to work in a school where I could share God’s love with the amazing administrators, parents, staff, and students at our Tacoma campus. That was 25 years ago. There are so many treasured lives and memories that will be forever engraved on my heart. Two words that best describe the Tacoma campus for me are “family” and “team.” Each of those students, staff, administrators and parents that have entered the doors of the Tacoma campus are true examples of family love and loyalty. Their desire to serve others with excellence and share their love of our God is only one of the many reasons I’m so proud to have been a part of this amazing family!”

Jared Midimo, parent “The Tacoma campus means home away from home for our daughters. The teachers and the support staff are dedicated and outstanding. We credit this great campus for the academic, spiritual, and social growth of our daughters. Our family will forever cherish the blessings that we have experienced in our lives as a result of our daughters attending CCS Tacoma campus.” Bonita Cheshier, past principal “The Tacoma campus of Cascade Christian Schools has meant family to me. We have believed the best in each other and in our students. Our diverse campus has been a slice of heaven, built on dedication and sacrifice. It has been a place where staff and families united to provide the best education for their children. We served one another wholeheartedly with the ultimate goal of seeing our youth know Christ and His love. We have been called to help them develop into Christ-like leaders, developing their gifts and talents. We have been a small, but a mighty praying force.

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CAMPUS FOCUS

I’m confident that the impact of our students and our work will continue to be evident for generations to come.” Michelle Scott, parent “We are blessed to have been a part of this Tacoma campus family. Our son has been going to the Tacoma campus since he was two years old. He is now eleven years old. From the very first time we walked onto the campus, it felt as if this is the place God wanted us to be. We are so thankful that the teachers and staff genuinely care about our son and our family. Not only do they care about our son’s education, they also care about his social and spiritual growth. We have so many memories and will miss the Tacoma campus.” Janina Patterson, parent and employee “FAMILY! When I walked onto the campus in 2003, I felt like I was home. We toured the campus and before we left, the Early Learning Director, Karen Curtiss, asked if she could pray for us. She prayed, not that we would come to CCS, but that God would guide us to the best school for our kids to grow. I was sold! Even through financial struggles, we decided we would do whatever it took to stay. As Marina entered the fourth grade, a position became open in the office, and I went to work there. We will always have Tacoma in our hearts, but we are excited about our new journey and feel blessed that we will stay with this Cascade Christian FAMILY.” (For the rest of Janina’s story, go to CascadeChristian.org and click on the blog on the home page.)

Denise Sievers, music teacher “Twenty years ago, the CCS Tacoma campus took a chance and asked me to be their music teacher. I remember the very first day they hired me, I sat at my desk crying and asking myself, “What have I gotten myself into?” I pulled up my boot straps, and said,

“Ok God, lead the way!” It has never stopped feeling like family the whole time I’ve been serving here. Tacoma is where I began to see that children are AMAZING and have the potential to do ANYTHING you ask them to! Our first try at a Broadway-style musical was Annie in 2005. The children have grown in their abilities to memorize, work together and build their confidence, and see how God can use them in mighty ways.” Lisa Metzger, past principal (during the Tacoma “Wrap it Up” celebration)

“I’m looking around here and this is home. My kids went to school here. Miranda started in preschool with Mrs. Shackett, and right on up. My son started in third grade here. Both of them graduated from Cascade Christian High School. Miranda just graduated a year ago. Its home. Tacoma campus is home.” Tina deVries, current principal

Above: 2016 Graduates from the Tacoma Campus with their kindergarten and preschool teachers, Mrs. Metzger and Mrs. Shackett.

my chair and I go find some kids. I go have lunch with them. I go visit their classroom. I go give a bathroom break. I do whatever is needed, and that is where I find the best part of my day. I’m really privileged to be at the end of this line (of principals), because I’ve heard something about every single one of these leaders. I’ve heard about Mr. Washburn’s strong leadership, as they pioneered Cascade, and I’ve heard about Mrs. Brown’s organizational leadership. I’ve heard about Mrs. Cheshier’s shenanigans <laughter>, and I’ve heard about Mrs. Metzger’s godly leadership. God has given us this privilege to be a part of your lives and a part of your journey, and we do not take it lightly.”

(during the Tacoma “Wrap it Up” celebration)

“Your children are literally my joy. My job requires me to sit at a desk and type away and administrate. Do you know what I do when I really need a break, and I need joy? I get out of

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CLASS OF 2016

Preparedâ&#x20AC;¦

for life.

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CLASS OF 2016

Class Verse: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.â&#x20AC;? Romans 12:10 64 graduates 644 combined years in K-12 Christian school (plus preschool) 29 attended CCS since Kindergarten 48 with a 3.0 GPA or above Total class GPA of 3.44 98% planning to attend higher education institutions in the fall 36 students receiving potential scholarships and grants offered toward college tuition totaling more than $3.5 million over the next four years Future plans: Academy of the Arts University, Arizona State University, Azusa Pacific University, Boise State University, Calvin College, Central Washington University, Clover Park Technical College, Equestrian College, Grand Canyon University, Los Angeles Film School, Northwest University, Pacific Lutheran University, Pacific University, Pierce College, Seattle Pacific University, South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, St. Katherine College, University of Washington, Walla Walla Community College, Washington State University, Western Washington University, Whitworth University

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CLASS OF 2016

An interview with our 2016 Valedictorian and Salutatorian

Left: Emma Suiter, Salutatorian Right: Jane Cooksley, Valedictorian

The Cascade Chronicle asked our CCHS Valedictorian Jane Cooksley and Salutatorian Emma Suiter to take a few minutes out of their busy schedules and answer some questions about where they are headed and how they feel CCS has prepared them.

CC: What are your future plans? Cooksley: This next fall I will be attending Northwest University in Kirkland. I will be majoring in nursing and receiving my bachelor’s degree after four years. I will also be studying music and Spanish. I would love to be involved in mission work and to participate in leadership on campus. After graduating, I plan to become a pediatric hospital nurse. Suiter: I will be attending Azusa Pacific University in Southern California this fall. After college, I hope to travel the world. My plan is to write novels for the rest of my life. I have been at Cascade Christian for eight years now, and realize that I’m about to leave and move on in my life. But I hope I never forget CCS, or what I’ve learned here.

CC: How has CCS prepared you academically for your future? Cooksley: I believe Cascade Christian has provided me with a diverse and challenging education. They have offered classes which allowed me to explore both my interests and passions. I believe many teachers have tried their best to prepare us for what we might see in a college education, but have also given us a strong support system, generously offering time and assistance along the way. In the past two years, I have been able expand my knowledge of many different subjects, and challenge myself with AP and concurrent classes. Cascade Christian encourages all of their students to push themselves to their highest potential, but also to participate in things which drive their passion and excitement. Suiter: Cascade Christian has taught me how to prioritize the things that are important to me, especially academically. Besides teaching me about their subjects, my teachers have taught me a lot about life and God and perspective. I learned to think critically and to attack my

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CLASS OF 2016

schoolwork with determination and passion at the same time. Essentially, CCS has taught me how to learn, and that is an invaluable tool in my future.

CC: How has CCS prepared you spiritually/ personally? Cooksley: I believe I have really grown, both spiritually and personally, throughout my time at CCS. I have had incredible opportunities to step up as a leader. Leading on worship team has allowed me to minister to people through music, and use my gifts for the glory of the Lord. I have become very aware of the need for knowledge and understanding of God’s Word, and being at Cascade Christian has helped me realize that that needs to be at the forefront of my walk with Christ. I have been blessed with the opportunity to lead and mentor younger students, encouraging them with God’s Word. I-Terms have been the best experiences of my life. In just these past two years, I have developed into a stronger, wiser, and more confident individual, and it was truly a blessing from the Lord to be placed at Cascade Christian. Suiter: Spiritually, Cascade Christian has both challenged and nurtured my faith-walk. I’ve learned to think deeply about my faith, even when that means asking hard questions and being willing to accept difficult answers. My senior Bible class has taught me that it’s okay to ask these questions, and to not have all the answers, because my understanding doesn’t change who God is. CCS taught me to look at the Bible as one incredible, breathtaking whole— the one Truth that I can rely on in the midst of all my human wrestling and doubt.

continued to bless me throughout the whole experience. Suiter: I don’t think I can pick a favorite memory. From ASB, to hanging out with people in my class at all hours and all locations, to getting to know all sorts of amazing people from other classes, to I-Term. My heart aches a little bit right now thinking about it, just because I know that soon this chapter in my life will be ended. But it’s been one amazing chapter, that’s for sure.

CC: Who do you admire? Cooksley: If I could strive to be like any individual, aside from Christ, I would want to be like Job. In the midst of losing everything, and feeling completely lost and hopeless, he chose to remain faithful and obedient to the Lord. I have everything I could ask for and more, and yet I struggle to honor Christ every day. I hope that as I grow older, my faith can grow to be even a fraction of what Job’s was. Suiter: I admire so many people at Cascade Christian, from my fellow students to my principal Dr. Friesen, to my teachers. And the office ladies are wonderful here—like a combination of school moms and field agents. There have been days when I’ve come to school so heavy and downcast, and I walk into the office, and Mrs. Barnett or Mrs. Gates or Mrs. Warren will say something that lifts my spirit right back up again. People sometimes ask me who my favorite teacher is, and I list one, followed by another, and another, because all of my teachers have poured so much into me—more even than they know. They’ve

I’ve also learned very practically how to love and care for people, how to listen. CCS taught me servant leadership, and the humility that goes with that.

CC: What is your favorite memory of school at CCS? Cooksley: The football team winning the state championship, the volleyball team making it to state, or our class winning buff puff last year are all contenders for favorite memories. Going to Los Angeles and South Africa were definitely the most exciting and amazing memories that I have with the Cascade Christian family. Those weeks spent serving others and exploring the world cannot be compared to anything else. From the first week I started, I knew that God had placed me right where I needed to be, and He has

encouraged me in my writing, in my walk with Christ; they’ve helped make me who I am, and left my heart full to bursting. I pray that all the future students at Cascade Christian realize just what a gift they’ve been given in this school.

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PERFORMING ARTS

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PERFORMING ARTS

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ATHLETICS

Cougar Athletics: Spring Season Wrap-up With a full spectrum of spring sports available to our Cascade Christian High School (and Junior High) students, it’s easy to find someone to cheer for in the spring! CCHS students can participate in Baseball, Fast Pitch, Golf (boys and girls), Boys’ Soccer, Girls’ Tennis, and Track and Field (boys and girls). For many of our athletes, the season extends with trips to the WIAA State Tournaments! Here are some highlights of the 2016 season: In Track and Field, junior Morgan Schepker took fourth place in State in the 400 Meter and sixth place in State in the 200 Meter. Junior Kierstin Patefield took sixth in State in the High Jump with a jump of 5’ 2”, and junior Leighton Lanier placed third in State in the Triple Jump with a new school record of 44’ 5.75”. The Boys’ Golf team took third place in District Tournament, with Junior Dyllan Gritter placing fifth overall. He advanced to State, along with seniors Andrew Tigges and Nathan Beardemphl. The team placed seventh in State. The Girls’ Golf team sent four to District Tournament, and Junior Taralynn Carroll advanced to the State Tournament. The Boys’ Baseball team won the District Championship and advanced to the State

Tournament.

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STUDENT FOCUS

The Final Year… By Sarah Pemberton, CCHS Junior It is an exciting and terrifying time for us juniors – the Class of 2017. We stand on the precipice of senior year, the fulfillment of twelve years of education. In one sense, it is thrilling finally to have made it, to have reached the epitome and end of our childhoods. In another sense, though, it is intimidating knowing all we will have to face this coming year.

This will be our last year at Cascade Christian, which, for many of us, has been a place of familiarity and friendship since elementary school. It will be our last year at home with our families too, and, although being free and out on our own will certainly be exciting, such a radical change can only be described as bittersweet. On top of all this, our classes will get harder as we seek to challenge ourselves, and we will all experience quite a bit of stress. Of course, the greatest weight on our minds will be college. We will be under a lot of pressure as we find and apply to the right schools (and spend the next few months praying we are accepted). However, this process is not all negative. The college search is such a burden only because we know choosing the perfect one will open up doors for us we never dreamed of.

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It is just this, this promise of new opportunities, which makes our final year so appealing.

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It is just this, this promise of new opportunities, which makes our final year so appealing. As the oldest class in the school, we will be able to lead in ways we could not before. We desire to be a group the underclassmen can look up to, as we looked up to the seniors

before us, and in light of that, we will strive to make this our best year academically, spiritually, musically, athletically, and socially. As we do this, we also look forward to growing closer as a class. We believe that, as we struggle through the worries and trials of senior year together, we will simultaneously create bonds that last not only through college, but through our entire lives.

the coming year will give us a solid foundation in an unstable world. In essence, senior year is full of confusion. Not many of us are entirely sure where we are going or how we are going to get there. It is in this period of vulnerability that we must turn to God, and, through intent prayer and reflection, we will come to see the path He has laid out for our lives. Whatever that plan may be, we are certain it will be a wonderful adventure. Come senior year, we will find ourselves face to face with our futures, staring at an empty page. We will undeniably face uncertainty, but that uncertainty has an exhilarating quality to it. In the end, we should not, we will not, fear because our story is unwritten; rather, we will face the unknown boldly, pens in hand.

This final year will also prepare us for life beyond high school. We will be, and are now, surrounded by teachers who mentor us, encourage us, and want to see us grow. Many of us will take classes which will help us get ready for or make decisions about our future majors too. For example, I personally am excited that over half my classes will directly equip me for my future in STEM, and a similar Thanks to Katelyn P., Jason L., Bekah S., situation holds true for my friends Kalina W., Abby O., Britney L., and Megan interested in literature and the arts. S. for sharing their expectations for Regardless of what we wish to pursue, senior year. we are confident the new experiences and increased responsibilities ofBoys Soccer Not Pictured: Boys Golf, Track and

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ELEMENTARY FOCUS

A Whole New World of Learning Sarah Monson is an artistic 7-1/2 year-old who takes piano lessons and gleefully attends weekly dance class. When she first came to McAlder Elementary at the beginning of the school year, on the surface her life appeared carefree. But her mom expressed a concern about her reading, that she had fallen under grade-level and didn’t really enjoy

basketball on the playground. When he came to McAlder Elementary at the beginning of the school year, his parents were concerned that he was experiencing a holding pattern in his favorite subject, math. Your gift to 21st Century Education helped Isaac take flight and advance in math a full year above his grade level. He is learning at his highest level and is no longer at risk of being in the statistical demographic of gifted children who tragically bide their time below the radar. Thank you for giving and making a difference in Isaac’s life. “I would like to thank everyone who has generously given to [21st Century Education] at Cascade Christian. Your generous gifts have enabled me to provide individualized instruction for each student in my class, allowing each student to grow! While technology carries a high price tag, seeing students grow in confidence and become willing to attempt more challenging curriculum is priceless! Thank you.” – Mrs. Gruner, McAlder Campus teacher

reading. In second grade, this could have been costly for Sarah’s education going forward. Your gift to 21st Century Education helped rewrite Sarah’s school story. You provided the wind for Sarah’s readingsails to motivate and propel her forward. Mrs. Gruner reports that with the help of apps and devices your gifts provided, “Sarah gained significantly to go from a struggling reader to a fluent grade-level reader.” She continued, “And her mom has shared with me that now she finds Sarah reading books, and she enjoys it. She is interested in reading and feeling successful.” When Sarah found out there were people who helped provide the 21st Century Education tools for her reading transformation, she wanted wanted to share this message: “Thank you for giving to the school so we could get these iPads to help us learn. I think you are very thoughtful.” Isaac Lleras is an articulate 3rd grader who likes to play tetherball and

Update! “Sarah just finished her Reading MAP test. She increased her score by 30 points – that is HUGE!!!!! A great ending (or should I say a great beginning) to this story. She even ran up to me today and excitedly told me how she went past her goal and grew by 30 pioints. She was so excited! She is owning her own learning for sure!” - Joyce Blum, McAlder Campus Principal

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DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT PLATINUM BUSINESS PARTNERS

PUYALLUP

Thank you to our 2015-16 Business Partners! More than 30 students will get to stay at CCS because of your generosity.

GOLD BUSINESS PARTNERS

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re interested in supporting Cascade Christian Schools by becoming a 2016-17 Business Partner, please call 253-841-1776.

SILVER BUSINESS PARTNERS

AT TO R N E Y S AT L AW www.mcgavickgraves.com

BRONZE BUSINESS PARTNERS

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NON PROFIT US POSTAGE PAID TEKS SERVICES

District Office 815 21st Street SE Puyallup, WA 98372 253-841-1776

See us on the web! CascadeChristian.org

Every student, every day, Prepared...

Schedule a tour at CascadeChristian.org, or call 253-841-1776.

CCS students are prepared through a well-rounded educational experience, focused on each student’s academic success, spiritual formation, personal and social maturity, and leadership development.

K through 12 KINDERGARTEN PREP INFANTS/TODDLERS Five locations in Pierce County CCS Summer Chronicle 0616 FINAL.indd 20

DISTRICT-WIDE

SUMMER TOURS Tuesdays in August • 9-11 a.m. & 3-6 p.m. 7/8/16 11:24 AM