Cascade Christian Chronicle 2011-2012 Issue 1 by Cascade Christian Schools

Dedicated to Developing Discerning Leaders Don Johnson Superintendent of Schools Mary Severeid Assistant Superintendent Early Learning/Elementary Glenna Frederick, Ed.D Assistant Superintendent Secondary/International Tim Kleefeld, CPA Director of Business and Finance Rob Mitton Director of Development Naomi Warren Director of Admissions Susan Crawford Director of Marketing and Communications Junior High & High School Administrative Team: Joyce Blum Suzanne Keil Keith PateďŹ eld Dave Peterson Frederickson Elementary & ELC Debi Boyd, Principal and Executive Director

Feet to Faith

Another Season of Impact

Working with Purpose

Puyallup ELC Karen Curtiss, Executive Director Puyallup Elementary Terry Broberg, Principal Tacoma Elementary & ELC Lisa Metzger, Principal and Executive Director This issue of the Chronicle reported and written by commercial freelance writer and CCS Parent Misty Suggs. 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. Cover: Early Learning student (Asher) Cover photo by: Kristin Bowie Additonal photography in this issue by: Mike Centioli, Jill Douglas, Misty Suggs and Josh Elder

For more information about Cascade Christian Schools:

cascadechristian.org | 253-841-1776 Development/Business Partner information: Rob Mitton Admissions information: Naomi Warren 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.

Dear CCS Family and Friends, When watching one of our football games, I saw a t-shirt that read, “Tradition Never Graduates”. What an example of a program that is continuous from year to year! Here at Cascade Christian Schools, the “stories of our vision in action never graduate”. Everywhere I go, and every time I turn around, I get to witness or hear about how our students, our employees, our parents, and our alumni are carrying out or experiencing the vision of CCS in their life or the lives of their family and community. How do we pick the stories for our Chronicle when there are so many at every level? With the start of an exciting year, we have highlighted stories that demonstrate how God’s people are serving Him through the educational ministry of CCS. I would like to highlight our Weekly Devotion that goes out to all of our parents and employees through a mass email. The Weekly Devotion is connected to our yearly Spiritual Theme, so we are all on the same page. You will also see the blue sidebar links to our Guiding Principles, our Educational Model, and our Strategic Plan. Make sure that you are getting our Weekly Devotion.

“Quality never graduates at CCS!”

Don Johnson, Superintendent of Schools

Locations

Core Purpose

www.cascadechristian.org

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

Mission 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.

EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION

Transforming Cultures: Each year, Cascade Christian Schools honors employees for their dedication. The employees who have been here ﬁve, ten or ﬁfteen years are presented with an award, and their supervisors provide words of affirmation which are read during the All-District Rally in August.

15-year Recognition Katie Donohoue, Frederickson Elementary - 5th grade “Katie is known for her dramatic flair. She is adventurous, enthusiastic, talkative, and irresistibly funny. Katie brings joy and people skills with her everywhere she goes. She has never met a stranger. Katie is by nature gregarious and, by choice, a shaper of lives. Katie makes me laugh! She is an enthusiastic member of the Frederickson team.” Roy Hinderer, JH Bible and Science “Roy Hinderer is Mr. Science in our Jr. High campus. But this man is extremely talented and versatile beyond science. He is a gifted singer, artist and soccer player. Students love him and his class, and he loves kids. This you can tell as he interacts with them daily. Roy has an incredible servant’s heart; if something needs to be done, Roy is first to volunteer. Roy has been a steady, consistent part of our JH program for fifteen years.” Janine Lawrence, HS English “Janine teaches High School English and, for the past 15 years, yearbook. She is a willing servant – ready to help where needed, whenever and whatever. She has coached girls’ volleyball and has served as the newspaper advisor. Janine is a prayer warrior and spends time each week specifically praying for our students, especially during and around our chapel times.” Angie Ruiz, DO Cascade Fund Assistant “Angie is a true professional in all that she does! She always has a great attitude and is willing to take on new challenges. She brings good insight to every project and manages her time well. She is fun to work with and a tremendous blessing to our department and school!”

10-year Recognition

5-year Recognition

Matthew Bracher Carrie Buddle Barbara Kopec Lori Lidyard Buffie Splinter Nicole Vilhauer Susanne Weathers

Jodi Bay Ercilla Bradford Lira Cernacovschi Sandy Fox Ronda Gregory Angie Long Mybol Mikhail Cathy Miller

Jo Mitchell Gisela Navarrete Deanne Scott Wes Swarthout Yvonne Tapia

EMPLOYEE PROFILE

Providing Resources for Students: New Junior High/High School Librarian Tanya Crager works to expand students’ understanding of the library’s potential. A graduate of Northwest Nazarene University, with a Masters in Teaching from City University, Mrs. Crager has worked as a librarian or library fill-in teacher for local districts over the past five years. She was excited when the opportunity came to fill the position at CCS. “I like knowing I’m part of a mission that glorifies God by providing a quality, Christcentered education,” she says. “I have the privilege of preserving this mission by creating an educational atmosphere that is Christ-centered whether being in the library, the computer lab, or around the school. In Matthew 6:33, God tells us to direct our thoughts towards His kingdom and His righteousness. CCS allows me the freedom to do that.” There’s plenty of work to be accomplished in her new position. Mrs. Crager is currently assisting with MAP (Measures of Academic Progress) testing and supporting the English department with the Accelerated Reading Program. She also assists teachers with the video resources available through Discovery Education, a standards-aligned digital resource that some CCS teachers are using to enhance classroom teaching. Building upon the work of previous librarian Brooke Sikora (who has transitioned into the classroom this year), Mrs. Crager also provides students with mini-tours. She says her heart is for students to have a

better understanding of how much is available to them. Her goal is to increase the number of students who utilize the library by connecting with students in person and explaining how the library will benefit them in their studies. One way she connects is by explaining which online research tools are available to students besides Wikipedia. One resource att CCS is the Culture Grams database, which provides in-depth information about a country’s traditions, history, timelines, and language. As librarian, it is, of course, Mrs. Crager’s job to keep track of books and items checked out. Currently, CCS uses a circulation system called the Follett database. She is currently working to transfer the data from Follett database directly into RenWeb, where parents and students will be able to see information for items checked out, any fees imposed, and the resources available in the library. The library also has access to two online databases called Proquest and eLibrary. During the school year, students and parents can access this site by requesting a user name and password from Mrs. Crager. Registered site visitors can access over 4,000 files including videos, audios, pictures, maps, web links, and full-text articles. “If students can’t find what they need at the CCS library or the online databases, then CCS has access to the Puyallup Public Library and Pierce County Library systems. This gives students the opportunity to check out books and resource materials that are not available at CCS,” she explains.

The (extended) Crager family In additio addition, college guidance students can find items ranging from college catalogs, videos, and files on different careers options, financial aid, and scholarship information in the library. “It’s a great start for any high school student researching colleges,” Crager says. Besides her new job as librarian, Mrs. Crager is a very busy wife, assisting her husband, Brian Crager, with his business, Crager Marketing, Inc., and managing three CCS high school students: son, Josh, (10th), along with international students, Ning Yang (12th) from China, and Sang Hyuk (Daniel) Jun (11th), from South Korea. Tanya shares their son Josh’s love for wrestling, playing soccer, hunting, golfing, fishing, traveling, swimming, and reading. Ning loves to cook, play his guitar, run, play basketball, or go on bicycle rides. Daniel has a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. He also enjoys soccer, games, and activities with friends. Although busy, it works for them. “My husband and I have enjoyed providing a home for our exchange students. They’ve become a valuable part of our family.”

VOLUNTEER PROFILE

Called to Support Others Janine Zornes, Parents for Cascade volunteer, shares her heart for serving and for CCS Supporting others is something Cascade Christian parent Janine Zornes has done for many years as a volunteer for CCS. Married to Bill, Mrs. Zornes keeps busy with daughters Kyla (10th) and Morgan (8th). The Zornes’ children began attending CCS in 2001. Kyla began Kindergarten at the Puyallup campus and Morgan joined the 4’s Preschool Program at the Puyallup Early Learning Center. Mrs. Zornes recalls that September 11, 2001 was her ﬁrst day to volunteer in Kyla’s Kindergarten class. “Of course, we adults knew what had happened that morning. Not too many of the kids did, though, and some were discussing it. Mrs. Noteboom opened the day with prayer, and asked a blessing on all those involved. I remembered how thankful I was that my kids were at CCS where we could actually pray about something so tragic. I knew in that moment that we had made the best choice of schools for our kids.”

“At the junior high and high school level, the help is primarily needed with events. I miss being at the school every day, although I do volunteer as a cashier for lunch and get to say hello to the kids coming through the line. I helped with 8th grade move-up when Kyla was a 7th grader, then again the next year because I loved it. It was so much fun. Volunteering doesn’t always have to be for an event your child is involved in. If there’s a need to be ﬁlled, and I’m available, I’m happy to do it.” Mrs. Zornes currently serves as a junior high Parents for Cascade leader. For the second year in a row, she served as the Junior High and High School campus representative for the annual Phone-a-thon. Mrs. Zornes explains that she was helped by another parent her ﬁrst year, so her duties this year were even easier. She began collecting names of parents interested in volunteering for the Phone-a-thon at parent orientation night in September. Parents were needed to provide food, to assist as callers, or to pray for the night.

Mrs. Zornes enjoys being a part of Parents for Cascade (PfC), the CCS parent organization that supports the school, “The Phone-a-thon is a The Zornes Family: Kyla, Janine, Bill and Morgan teachers, and staff. great way for parents to When her daughters were at the Puyallup Elementary, she be involved, especially working parents,” says Zornes. “Much spent time helping teachers in the classroom, covering of the work can be done via e-mail or by phone. On the one a class for teacher lunches, serving as a classroom night you are assigned as the campus rep, you volunteer at support manager, and anywhere else she was needed. the district office from 5:30 to 9:30. You oversee food for She recalls her two favorite places the callers, can help with prayer, and __________________________________ to help were in the library and at the create a fun atmosphere with balloons annual Christmas store. “I absolutely delivered to a caller for a successful “Volunteering doesn’t loved working in the Christmas donation.” store. I usually helped cashiering or always have to be for For more information about getting gift wrapping. Just to see the look an event your child is involved with PfC, call the campus, on the kids’ faces when they would or visit the CCS web site, choose come out with their purchases and involved in. If there’s a your campus, and click on Parents for explain who the gift was for and need to be ﬁ lled, and I’m Cascade. why. I loved it so much. I would be willing to go back and work there available, I’m happy to even though my youngest daughter do it.” is now in junior high!” - Janine Zornes __________________________________

Puyallup ELC Teacher Helps Preschoolers Learn the Power of Prayer in Addition to Preparing for Kindergarten

Myra Willh oite

Myra Willhoite joined the CCS Puyallup Early Learning Center in 2008 by ﬁlling in for teacher breaks. “I enjoyed getting to know the students, staff, and teachers this way. So when the job of lead teacher for the Traditional 4’s Preschool Program became available, I applied for it and was hired.” Mrs. Willhoite holds a degree in Early Childhood Education and managed several co-ops in California and Arizona before coming to Washington. As lead teacher, Mrs. Willhoite creates a structured, yet fun, learning environment for the students along with her assistant, Mrs. Wendy Schierman. The CCS Traditional 4‘s Preschool Program is split into two sessions per day lasting 2-1/2 hours each, three days a week. From the moment the students walk into her classroom, they know what is expected and look forward to the day’s activities. Following their usual greetings and smiles at the door, then hand-washing, they head off to the various educational learning centers set up throughout the room to settle in. A carefully planned curriculum integrates pre-reading and pre-writing skills such as learning the alphabet, letter sounds, counting, number recognition, shapes, colors, and writing their name. With educational development comes social development. This takes place daily in a circle time, outside time, and gym time, incorporating teaching of the three R’s (Respect, Responsibility, and Relationship). One of Mrs. Willhoite’s personal goals is for her students to understand that God is real by modeling this truth them. Monthly spiritual themes displayed in the room are read and discussed, and Bible verses memorized and lived out, as daily opportunities arise to apply what students are learning from the Bible. “I appreciate and love my work at the preschool,” says Willhoite. “One of the highlights of my job and ministry, is building relationships with the students and their parents.” Another personal goal for Mrs. Willhoite is that students see and experience the power of prayer. Mrs. Willhoite uses a paper clip as a visual aid. Each clip represents answered prayers. The students attach paper clips together and watch as the chain stretches from one wall to another. “They see God’s faithfulness revealed to us,” says Mrs. Willhoite. Another opportunity happens during circle time where she takes four prayer requests. “Because of the time limitation, it’s hard for me to limit the number of requests” says Mrs. Willhoite, “Commonly, there are 20 hands raised. I tell the students if I didn’t call their name, they can stay at the circle, and I will pray for them. When circle time is over, instead of playing in the learning centers, I will frequently see ﬁve or six students lined up for prayer. My heart is overwhelmed by this, and it tells me these four-year-olds see the power in prayer.” Mrs. Willhoite strives to create an environment that promotes students to be enthusiastic learners. She wants students to love coming to school and view their time in class as a fun place. “They are inquisitive and ask questions about the world around them,” says Mrs. Willhoite. “They are excited to learn. I believe that is what makes a prepared kindergartner.” Mrs. Willhoite and husband William Willhoite, a Lieutenant Colonial in the Army Reserves, recently celebrated their 26th wedding anniversary. They have three children, whom Mrs. Willhoite homeschooled for eleven years: Heather (23), Nick (class of 2010), who came to CCHS when he was in the 10th grade, and youngest daughter Katrina, who will graduate from CCHS in 2012.

FEET TO FAITH

Putting Feet to Faith… and sharing it with grandparents. Across the district, campuses, classrooms, and students have been putting their faith into action this fall and Christmas season. Here are a few examples... Frederickson Elementary & ELC: Fifth graders sang Christmas carols at the VA hospital. Preschool 3s classes did a food drive ve for the Salvation Army. Extended School students ﬁlled and d mailed shoe boxes for Operation Christmas Child. Puyallup Elementary: Students completed “Feet to Faith” h” projects and presented them at Grandparents’ Day. Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes es were ﬁlled and collected. Puyallup ELC: Annual Giving Tree supporting Youth th for Christ foster children. Mrs. Willhoite’s class – supporting ng “Gospel for Asia” – buying two lambs bs for an Asian family – each student is earning $3.50 for the fund. Tacoma Elementary & ELC: Students did “Feet to Faith” projects and Grandparents’ Day at the end of October. “Christmas IMPACT Giving Tree”: Tacoma campus families nominate e families in need and provide for or Christmas needs. Junior High/High School: Operation Bless the Kilcups: Cocoa oa sales and dress code day are a couple ple of ways money was raised for the he Kilcup family. Support Our Troops: students and nd families donated money and items to prepare care packages for soldiers.

ATHLETICS

Elementary Volleyball Clinic High School Volleyball Players Mentor Future Lady Cougs at Fall Skills Clinic “I remember looking up to the girls that led my sports clinics. It was nice to be the leader, and I enjoyed having a positive impact on the girls.” Anna Johnson, (9th), Varsity. The CCS High School JV and Varsity volleyball teams sponsored their first skills clinic for elementary kids 1st through 6th grade this fall. The clinic was open to all CCS elementary campuses as well as the community. Twentytwo elementary students turned out. Each participant received a volleyball camp t-shirt with their name on the back, free admission to one high school home match, and a goody bag. Each camper was then paired with a high school volleyball player for the day. Campers learned the basics of serving, passing, and footwork, plus there was time for crafts and fun activities prepared by the high school players. CCS varsity team captain Catherine Moffett (12th) led the first half of the clinic with introductions, prayer, and warmups. The high school players were then divided up with the campers onto four courts, where they did skill-building workouts. Some of the upperclassmen were busy taking the PSAT test earlier that morning, and led the afternoon sessions. “Our girls were excited to pass on a skill they are passionate about,” says Duane Abad, Head JV Coach. “For the younger high school players to have someone look up to them, and respond to their coaching, raises their self-esteem, and the younger girls have yet another positive female role model.” Abad hopes the camp will spark interest in volleyball at the elementary level. One of the clinic’s highlights included a final scrimmage involving the players and campers. A giant blow-up volleyball was tossed onto the court, and the kids took turns getting it over the net. Eventually, the high school players carried the little ones on their backs and the real fun kicked in. The group for each side would rush to get to the ball first. It was all smiles and laughter.

“The elementary volleyball clinic was more than just teaching the kids volleyball skills,” says Head Coach Shauna Sheppard. “It is a mentorship program. The upperclassmen learn that their impact is far greater than teaching the kids about a sport. The little girls look up to the “big girls” and simply want to be with them. At the end of the day, the high school girls embraced their role and realized they were instrumental in establishing a strong foundation for these young girls’ athletic futures. Plus, they had a great time playing games, doing crafts, and leading the next generation of young ladies through the fellowship the clinic provides. We are looking forward to this summer, as we will be doing a 4-day summer volleyball camp on June 26 – 29, focusing on volleyball and fun!” When asked what she liked the most about the camp, Kara, from the CCS Frederickson campus, said, “I like the serving!” Lighthouse homeschooler, Madison, “loved everything, and the high school girls are nice and pretty.” For more information about the CCHS Volleyball program, go to cascadechristian.org or contact Coach Shauna Sheppard at shauna2008@gmail.com.

2012 Daffodil Festival Princess Congratulations Delaney Roosendaal, Cascade Christian Schools’ 2012 Daffodil Festival Princess. Princess Candidates Megan Tveter and Madison Carrier, escorts Ryan Engels, Kyle Crawford, and Daniel Suggs, along with Ladies-in-Waiting Victoria Lenzo, Madisyn Hahn, and Cheyenne Murphy also did a wonderful job on Princess Selection Night. Left: Delaney and 2011 CCHS Daffodil princess, Kelsey Carder

JUNIOR HIGH

Junior High Students Enjoy Activities, Bond With Friends Old and New at Annual Rally Day Close to half of the almost 170 Cascade Christian Junior High students arrive for the new school year from the three CCS campuses in Frederickson, Puyallup, and Tacoma. Another 80 or so are returning to CCJH for eighth grade, and a few are brand new to CCS. This dynamic makes time apart from a regular school day near the beginning of the year essential for establishing many new friendships, and makes the transition smoother and more successful. This year’s event was held off campus at Lake Retreat, a picturesque Christian camp and convention center located just 35 minutes east of Seattle in Ravensdale, Washington. The students arrived at Lake Retreat around 9 a.m., and began the day with worship led by history teacher Roy Hinderer. Following worship, Associate Principal Dave Peterson spoke on the topic of “Choices”. The ability to make our own choice is “a wonderful gift that God has given us,” said Peterson. Verbally leading students through a variety of choices they make every day, Peterson emphasized to students that the choices they make do not belong to their parents, teachers, youth pastor, or friends. “No one but you will determine your success or failure, happiness or misery,” says Peterson.

Following Mr. Peterson’s talk, the students took a quick break, then headed outside into a covered area to participate in leadership relay games before lunch. Many students, like Ryan Miller (8th grade), said the games helped him “rekindle relationships with old friends and meet new ones.” Miller’s favorite activity of the day was getting “shot off the blob” into the lake. After lunch, the students braved the rain and ventured outside to the calm, yet cold, lake where they could kayak, swim, or paddle boat. Parent chaperone Christiane Carder noted, “There were many outside activities and plenty for everyone to do, and the kids were very well behaved.” Taylor Fuller (8th grade) adds, “It was one of the best times I’ve ever had, and I learned it’s okay to be out of your comfort zone (going somewhere I’ve never been), because you can learn great things when you do!”

SENIOR HIGH

ASB Team Impacts Student Body with Successful Fall Rally _______________________ Team Maximum IMPACT:

I am supporting others as they seek to build up their faith. Team Verse: Ephesians 4:29

_______________________ It’s been a busy fall for the 2011-12 ASB Team, as they prepare for a year of planning and executing student body events. The majority of planning takes place during ASB class period. “We are privileged to have the opportunity of meeting daily. We talk thoroughly about how things are going around the school, and have enough time to think through and plan every event to the best of our ability,” said ASB President Taylor Ford.

ASB President:

“God has deﬁnitely blessed us with an awesome team,” he added. Ford says the best part of being on the ASB team is they are like a second family to each other. “We’ve become so close that we can share what’s going on in our lives, and pray for each other weekly. We are also very intentional in talking about what needs to be prayed for at Cascade and praying for those needs.” Ford feels the group performs well together and always makes decisions as a team. “We work best when everybody shares their opinion. We vote or decide as a team what is best for the student body that we represent.”

Treasurer:

ASB Team Parent Representative Kirstie Brar echoes these sentiments. “The greatest aspects of this team is that they bring their sense of family to school with them, which is felt by the rest of the student body.” She believes great things happen when the student body works together. “I loved how our whole student body blessed Allenmykael and his mom last year at Christmas. I am excited to see how we will bless the Kilcup family this year.” In addition, she says the team is very organized and capable, which has made her job of supporting them easy. “They are a great group of kids to work with,” says Mrs. Brar.

Taylor Ford Vice President: Kyle Crawford

Kadyn Coltom Team Members: Catherine Moffett Coleton Saunders Ryan Engels Megan Tveter Renee Qualls Nate Brar Jalene Vavrik ASB Advisor/Teacher: Mrs. Sammy Bratz Team Parent Representative:

Major fall events planned by the ASB team this year were Homecoming and the Shine Youth Conference. The team put in many hours during ASB period and after school to make sure everything was in place for a successful event. They also manage the First Day of School BBQ, Homecoming Events (Banquet, Coronation, Spirit Week), and the Christmas outreaches. The team is already in the process of narrowing down what events they are planning for winter and spring. Ford reﬂects that his favorite event so far was the Shine Youth Conference. “Our team worked very hard to make everything happen. It was awesome on the day of the youth conference to worship, pray and open up the Word of God as a school. This was a great way to start of the year!” Author and CCS Parent, Kathy Saunders, who spoke at this year’s Shine Youth Conference at a breakout session, adds, “I thought the conference was phenomenal. The kids did an amazing job of planning, organizing and facilitating this event.”

Mrs. Kirstie Brar

ATHLETICS

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ATHLETICS

Girls Soccer Team Learns and Leads Coach Peterson Leads CCHS Girls’ Soccer to Playoffs, Nisqually League Sportsmanship Award Head Coach Lisa Peterson recently finished her third season as the CCHS girls’ soccer coach. The team finished their season with a league record of 7-5 and a trip to the playoffs for the first time in six years. In addition, Peterson was named the 2011 Nisqually League Girls’ Soccer Coach of the Year. She was also the National Christian School’s Athletic Association Girls Varsity Soccer Coach of the Year for the 20042005 school year, and was named the Seattle Times Soccer All Area Team Coach in 2004. The Chronicle recently had a chance to talk with Coach Peterson: CC: What is your background in soccer? LP: I played soccer and competed all through high school. My husband, Dave ,(CCS Associate Principal) was also a soccer player, as well as our daughter, Kelsey and son, Cory. I coached Kelsey’s soccer team at Seattle Christian from ninth through twelfth grade, and then took a break from coaching so I could watch Cory play soccer for Seattle Christian. CC: What do you attribute to the team’s success this year? LP: The team was successful because they practice hard and play hard. The girls love their teammates and work to not let each other down. You don’t have to focus on the record or the wins. If you work hard for yourself and your teammates, and your goal is to exemplify Christ on and off the field, the winning takes care of itself. CC: What is your practice philosophy? LP: You practice your plays on the field as if you’re in a game. If you’re lazy in practice, you’ll be lazy in the game. We expect the kids to give us 100% and not be distracted by outside things they can’t control during a game or practice. CC: What lessons do you think soccer teaches the players? LP: It’s a different classroom the kids get to learn in. They learn to work with other people, and are shown the universe doesn’t revolve around them. I strive to instill in these athletes to do what is best for the team. When kids see this in practice and understand it, they understand they are part of something far bigger than what they can do on their own. The kids take

pride in competing hard, but doing it graciously. One of my proudest moments this year was the team winning the Nisqually League Sportsmanship Award for the fourth year in a row. I appreciate that CCS competes in a mixed Christian, private and public school league. The players take it very seriously that they are playing against a lot of athletes that may not have church backgrounds. I emphasize to the players that they may be the only Jesus their opponents see. It’s a responsibility the team and the coaching staff take seriously. We have to be aware of our response to a (referee’s) call, and how it will be interpreted. CC: Tell us about your coaching staff. LP: I am blessed that the previous years’ assistants, Bryan and Lisa Pederson, remained on staff with the team. They are phenomenal assistants who love the kids, and we have similar coaching philosophies which makes it that much more enjoyable. We also have a lot of fun with the fact that we share the same last name, just a different spelling. It keeps everyone on their toes. CC: What are your expectations of the players? LP: First is to exemplify Christ on and off the field. It would be horrific if I got a call on a Monday morning regarding an athlete’s activities over the weekend that doesn’t fit our philosophy. The girls take this very seriously, because they know they are representing their families, school, and the Lord wherever we go. Second is to work hard, and third is to be dependable. CC: In what way do you inspire confidence in your athletes? LP: As a coaching staff, we have found that when we give our student athletes quite a bit of responsibility, it inspires confidence. It says to them, ‘wow, the coaching staff really thinks I can do this!’ When they see that we have confidence in them, they have no choice but to believe in themselves. It shined through this year. During half-time we use the Oreo philosophy. We start out with a compliment;

throw in constructive criticism in the middle and what we need to work on, then end with another compliment. If the ratio of compliments to criticism is 2:1, kids just thrive. It’s a great thing to watch girls really believe in themselves and play like they do! CC: Who else contributed to the team? LP: Former players, Emily Simonson and Jalene Vavrik, both had outside commitments this year that were time intensive. I offered them the job of statisticians, and they both jumped on it. They attended every game, and Emily took on the job of baking special goodies for our opponents at home games. Providing a thoughtful gift is one way we show a little bit of love, and that we care about our opponents. ___________________________________

“If your goal is to exemplify Christ on and off the ﬁeld, the winning takes care of itself.” Lisa Peterson, Head Coach

___________________________________

ALUMNI INTERVIEW

Chad Warren: Class of 2008 Warren takes enthusiasm and passion from high school to college to plans for the future... ___________________________________ CCHS school involvement: Wrestling, Tennis, Golf, ASB, Valedictorian College: Washington State University Degree(s): Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (focus on water resources), Minor in Math ___________________________________ CC: How is your senior year at college going? CW: Busy! I’ve been given a lot of design projects for my degree. I have experiential requirements for my major, which can be fulﬁlled through a summer internship or a research project. This past summer, I worked on several projects as a research assistant for the Washington State Water Research Center at WSU. CC: What clubs and organizations are you part of? CW: I’m involved with an athletic club called “Coug Guys and Gals,” in which we are given roles in hospitality and general support for WSU athletics at Cougar football and basketball games. I am also a member of the Engineering Honors Society, Tau Beta Pi, but I have had to limit my involvement in an attempt to prioritize my commitments. CC: What ministries are you involved in?

CW: I am part of mission work at the El Sauzal Orphanage in Mexico, and I am looking forward to the possibility of a mission trip to Africa this coming summer. I hope and pray that this may open many more doors in this area of ministry. I’m also currently in my third year as a College Young Life leader. I recently

spent eight months under the leadership of Devin Ossman (CCS Class of ’09), organizing the United U Conference held at WSU in October. CC: How did the United U Conference come about?

CW: The local Young Life outreach at WSU is a student-led organization with about fifteen active leaders on campus. We advertise on the “Mall,” which is the main walking area on the WSU campus, on campus TVs, and in the CUB, the students’ union building. Our group is open to speaking about Young Life and inviting others in. We provide a place that is fun and builds relationships. It gives us an opportunity to share the Word of God without being pushy. The idea for the United U Conference came from Devin Ossman. He approached me in January and we started with a committee of about five and finished with about ten of us planning the whole event. There are numerous ministries on campus including CCF (Campus Christian Fellowship), The Inn, Young Life, Cru (Campus Crusades for Christ), and a few others. Each reaches out to a different type of student. The goal was for all of the campus ministries to unite together and avoid the separation we sometimes have on campus in order to further impact the campus for Christ and connect students to ministries. Puyallup Foursquare, as well as many of the local businesses and churches in the Pullman area, gave support financially and through prayer. We hosted Eljah Waters, a youth pastor of Generation Church in Seattle, and Andrew Gard, a former college pastor from Puyallup Foursquare. The UG Band from Foursquare Church of Puyallup led worship.

It was a miracle that the conference happened, but in the end, we had 150200 people attend with several people changing their lives for Christ. We felt it was a very successful event. Our committee will begin planning the next conference after Christmas break. What are plans for after graduation?

I want to travel to Africa for three weeks to see what it’s like to live there and immerse myself in the culture and see if that’s where God wants me. I have a passion for developing nations and will work wherever God takes me. I’d like to work with a non-proﬁt organization in Africa, doing water research and providing clean water to people who don’t have it. As graduation gets closer, I’ll be applying for the “International Water, Sanitation, & Hygiene (WASH) Internship Program” through Samaritan’s Purse/Franklin Graham International. The description of the internship ﬁts the description of what I’m passionate about. What excites you about the future?

I’m excited to use my engineering degree as a vehicle to serving in ministry. I also want to share the Gospel and work for a Christian organization. How did attending CCS impact your life?

Cascade really prepared me to go out into the world. A lot of people who attend college aren’t ready to enter the world spiritually, and so many fall away from God when they leave high school. Statistically, I have heard that 80% walk away from their faith, because they haven’t reached a spiritual maturity. There are Christian colleges that can train students to be ready if they aren’t. For me, I am grateful that I felt prepared to reach out. We are somewhat sheltered at Cascade, but it gives us the training and a chance to really make that personal connection to God. (continued on page 14)

Chad an Bergm d Sister Da nielle an , C C her su mmer HS class o (Warren) f 200 weddi 5, at ng.

ALUMNI UPDATES

Class of 1997

Class of 2003

Class of 2010

Josh Johnson married Meredith Borel on July 31, 2011 in Kansas City, Missouri. They have relocated back to Puyallup brieﬂy before heading to Jordan to do church planting.

Renae Arndt spent time in Uganda over the summer, and currently leads worship at Mosaic Community Church, as well as developing the college ministry at SPU and UW. Renae says, “I remember studying education and psychology because I wanted to counsel, love and challenge young people. Now, God is releasing me to do just that on the college campuses!”

Kyle Sadler graduated from USAF Technical Training October 5, ﬁnishing third out of 1,100 in the Mississippi program. He is now assigned to Mountain Home AFB in Idaho for two to three years, to continue learning and implementing skills in air traffic control. (He said he will NOT fall asleep in the tower!)

Class of 1999 Luke Williams and his wife, Carmen, welcomed their ﬁrst daughter, Mirabelle Sophie Williams, on August 12, 2010. Luke is a publisher’s representative for Pearson, and Carmen is an artist. Their family lives in the Puyallup area.

Class of 2001 Joshua Hamish Whiteman, his wife Jenn, and daughter, Madeline, will be moving to France to begin a regional support role in communications for the Christian and Missionary Alliance. They will be working primarily in Europe, the Middle East, Africa ,and Central Asia, but based in the Paris area. Josh says, “This is a BIG step for our family. Some days it seems daunting. But we know that God is in it, and God is good. Plus, some of you (alumni) have already blazed the trail, moving your families to far off places, so I know it can be done.“

Class of 2002 Michael Duran and his wife, Johanna, recently announced the birth of their new son and daughter. Twins, Joe Samuel and Emma Rose, were born on August 11 in Amsterdam. Michael says, “both babies and mom are doing well and we love being parents!” Amy (Duran) Birk and her husband, Cameron, have started a non-proﬁt ministry housing and mentoring men who have graduated from drug and alcohol rehab. Their focus is on helping the men get jobs, go back to college, operate a budget, and get plugged into a good church so they can have good inﬂuences in their lives (www.AbsoluteMinistries.org).

Class of 2005 D a n i e l l e Warren married Jake Bergman on June 25. The couple resides in Puyallup. Danielle serves on the El Sauzal Orphanage Board of Directors. Rick Snyder and his wife, Martha, left for Japan on July 28. They have been hired by the JET Programme to teach English in Miyazaki. They are very excited to do something challenging and fun. The schedule is demanding, but they are excited about expanding their horizons culturally as well as professionally.

Class of 2006 Ashlee Keil recently graduated from Central Washington University with a degree in Early Mathematics Learning. Serena Little married Elliott Derricks on October 15. They have returned to their missionary work in Macau. Luke Breton Van Groll married Tracey Stennes on June 22. The couple resides in Puyallup. They are active in their church and music community.

Class of 2008 Nicole Snyder (Nikki) is in her senior year at Northwest University, studying music. She is currently participating in an internship as a worship leader. She has learned classical piano and voice, and to compose classical music.

Class of 2009 Chad Keil graduated from Air Force BMT in June 2011.

Class of 2011 Laura Hinderer is currently attending Paciﬁc Lutheran University. She is pursuing her Bachelor of Science degree with a major in nursing. During Spring Break this year she will be going to Haiti on a mission trip with a group of other Christian individuals from PLU. Laura works at PLU in the Office of Admission as a student intern.

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Warren... continued from page 13 Who at CCS impacted you the most?

My parents have been the biggest impact on my life. My dad has been a major impact in my life. He’s been my youth pastor, my father, and my wrestling coach, and one of my best friends. He also coached a tennis season for me. He has been one of the biggest inﬂuences on my life, as well as my mom. I respect them more than I can explain. I’ve been very blessed. I also want CCS to know how grateful I am for everything. I attended from preschool through 12th grade. I appreciate everything the teachers and administration have done for me personally.

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THE CASCADE FUND

For about a year prior to starting at CCS, Amanda says she prayed for a job where she would enjoy and use her talents and spiritual gifts. After stopping to visit Mitton one day, and sharing this prayer with him, he suggested she check into the Cascade Fund Coordinator position.

Amanda Cady New Cascade Fund Coordinator One in four students at Cascade Christian Schools receives tuition assistance provided by the fundraising efforts of the Development Department. For the new Cascade Fund Coordinator, Amanda Cady, this fact is close to her heart. Amanda Cady joins CCS not just as the new Cascade Fund Coordinator, but as a former CCS student. When she ﬁrst started school at CCS, it was challenging. “I was really sad leaving my friends from public school. I didn’t go to youth group or church, and it was kind of scary going to a Christian school where we would study the Bible. But by the time I left, I was sad to leave. It was a great experience.” Due to ﬁnancial hardship, Amanda had to leave CCS. “After moving on, I felt ready to be a light to those in my new school that didn’t know God,” she says. Amanda also met her husband, North Cady, at a Bible study at her new school. She began attending youth group with him, and there met CCS Director of Development Rob Mitton, who was a youth pastor at that time. Trained as an x-ray technician, Amanda has worked in an office setting with a local chiropractor for many years. But her heart lies in helping people, often with youth on mission trips. The Cadys took several teenagers to Africa in the summer of 2009. “We made it a rule that parents could not pay for their child’s whole trip. If they wanted to give more money, they would have to give to our mission as a whole. We believe that part of the growth and experience of a mission trip is in doing the hard work of preparation and fundraising.”

Amanda believes that many key elements of fundraising are the same ,whether it’s related to a small or large event. “I can learn the details of events, and I’m passionate about seeing what God wants. He has unlimited abundance and is not restrained by money like we feel restrained. So when you’re obedient to do something with excellence and you’re a good steward of what He gives you, then He opens the doors for you. I don’t believe I’m the one to bring in money for Cascade Christian Schools; I believe God wants to bring in funds to CCS,” declares Amanda. As the Cascade Fund Coordinator, Amanda is responsible for maintaining the functions of the Cascade Fund campaign, including recruiting and working with volunteers, marketing, planning, producing, procurement, and follow-up after each Cascade Fund event. Amanda says it’s also her job to present the vision of CCS in a way that will allow God to work in people’s hearts. “I love casting vision and helping people understand where they can give of their time, money, or other resources to be a part of a greater purpose.” Amanda realizes that learning a new position will take time, but believes she is able see the big picture and credits the volunteers working with her for her success so far. “I need the wisdom and experience of the people who have done this before me. Over time, I can evaluate and adjust. For now, God is challenging me to have an attitude of humility.” A goal of Amanda’s is to communicate how the Cascade Fund is an essential part of what makes accomplishing the vision of CCS possible. “In the Bible,” says Amanda, “I see it is in God’s character to give. He gave his only Son. I believe we are designed to do the same because we are created in his image. I want others to experience the blessing that comes from giving, too, and to participate in this great vision. A

personal goal of mine is to learn a fresh level of trusting God in a job that is new and challenging.” Amanda says that working as the new Cascade Fund Coordinator, and being a former student who had to leave due to ﬁnancial hardship, makes her job a bit more personal. “If a student is excelling and doing well academically, personally, or spiritually,” says Cady, “it’s important that this fund keeps our students in the same environment. Our circumstances change, our jobs change, or maybe our health. But we don’t want families to have to pull their child out at a crucial time, when they are deﬁning who they are and what they believe in.” The Cascade Fund not only provides for tuition assistance, “but it gives students opportunities in creative arts, technology, and athletics, that allow them to explore the way they are made. Part of the CCS mission is to help students discover how God created them and what their God-given gifts and talents are, allowing them to move forward in their purpose before God.” Amanda continues, “One example that comes to mind is the Cougar News video classes. These creative arts classes give students a chance to do something outside of core academics where otherwise they may not have had that opportunity of discovery.” Amanda wants families to know her door is always open to talking with parents and volunteers about what gifts and talents they have to offer CCS. “It is important for people to know that we need volunteers with all different gifts. We need creativity, organization, good communicators, and many hands to accomplish physical tasks,” she expresses. Amanda adds, “I’d love to meet those who are comfortable procuring items for the auction. Working parents sometimes have excellent connections to businesses that may want to give to CCS. Talking to one’s company about being a Business Partner is another way to become involved at CCS. There’s something everyone can offer.”

THE CASCADE FUND

Our Greatest Investment by Rob Mitton, Director of Development The Cascade Fund exists to support the mission of Cascade Christian Schools. I compare the Cascade Fund to a home court advantage. It’s not something you see right out in front. It’s in the background, sometimes unseen, but making a big difference in the outcome. As our students are inspired by dynamic and talented educators, the Cascade Fund is behind the scenes, spanning the gap between the cost of a quality, Christ-centered education and an affordable tuition. Comprised of a giving community of employees, parents, grandparents, friends, relatives, and businesses, the Cascade Fund invests in strengthening the school experience by providing tuition assistance, technology, sports equipment, curriculum, facilities upgrades, and library books. As an annual fund, The Cascade Fund starts at zero each year and the goal is set according to the projected needs of the current year. This year, that goal is $400,000. With one out of every four students currently receiving tuition assistance, and the average student receiving 27% of their tuition from the Cascade Fund, the bulk of the Cascade Fund will support tuition assistance. There are many opportunities to participate in the Cascade Fund. The four key events include the Phone-a-thon, the Family Fun Auction, the Formal Auction, and the Golf Tournament. Please prayerfully consider how you can participate in this year’s Cascade Fund. To ask questions or participate, please call 253-841-1776, or visit us online at cascadechristian.org/supportccs.

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. CCS Mission Statement

Business Partner Profile oe & Chlnnin e l l e Mich De Mo If there is one thing that I have learned over the years it is to invest of myself into every project I am involved in. Usually, when we think of the word investing, we think of Wall Street and the ever fluctuating stock market, often wishing our investments were doing better or wishing we had money to invest in the first place. But, there is so much more to the word investment than profit and loss statements. Whether I’m working with a pastor or a local business owner, they are entrusting me to create a visual representation of their dreams and passions. As I invest of myself and take the time to learn what those dreams and passions are, I’m better able to let my creativity flow and serve them well. I’ve been working as a branding specialist, graphic artist and photographer for the past 26 years. In January, I will celebrate 22 years of owning my own company. I love the diversity of working with all kinds of organizations on a variety of project types, but my specialty has been serving churches and Christian non-profit organizations with their branding and design needs. Lately, I have been spending more and more time behind my camera and I love watching that branch of my business grow and develop. Most recently that has included shooting photos for the Cascade Christian Schools athletic program. For me, Cascade Christian is all about investment: Investing into the life, education and growth of my daughter. Teachers investing into the lives of both my daughter and myself. Investing back into the classroom and into other students. My daughter is currently in third grade. This is our second year at Cascade Christian Schools after home-schooling for two years. We came to Cascade upon the recommendation of a friend, but now realize it was the divine leading of God. I would not want my daughter anywhere but CCS.

I love that everything she learns is painted with a biblical worldview. Even math. I’ll never forget my daughter coming home from her first week of school in second grade talking about how math is like God—always true and never changing. I love the grand music productions with a biblical theme. I love that there is prayer in her class. I feel like CCS is a partner with me in raising my daughter to be all that God has made her to be. If I was to pick the number one thing that endears Cascade Christian Schools to my heart it would be the relationships. I have to be honest, if someone had told me a little over a year ago that I would feel this way I would not have believed them. I expected school to be school, teachers to be teachers, and for those two things never to touch our personal life. But, both my daughter and I have made some of our dearest friends at Cascade. Friends I wouldn’t want to walk through life without. Friends I wouldn’t want my daughter to grow up without. One of my greatest joys is investing into the classroom and into other students. One of the ways I do this is by volunteering to teach art in my daughter’s class. I had an amazing time last year working with the second graders and this year is starting off well, with opportunities to help with both third and second grade classes. I love to watch a student’s face light up when they realize that they really can draw and create. It gives them confidence and helps them to grasp how creative God is. Another way that I have chosen to give back is through the CCS Business Partner program. Every investor wants to know that what they are investing in will be well managed, produce a good profit and weather the storms. I believe that the students of Cascade Christian really are our greatest investment. My prayer is that every student that passes through the doors of CCS would encounter Christ on a personal level and that each one would accept Him as their Savior. If I can be a part of investing into just one student that otherwise might not be here—and that one student’s life course is changed for eternity—then I consider that the best investment I could ever make.

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