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THE MAGAZINE OF CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL • 2020-21 • ISSUE 1
Future Middle School Building | Opening August 2022
Features
Departments
1 70TH ANNIVERSARY
13 KNIGHTS HEADLINES 15 EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT 17 COMMUNITY 19 ACADEMIC SPOTLIGHT
Charlotte Christian is celebrating 70 years of excellence in Christian education this school year.
5 BEYOND THE SEA
The show must go on! Our theatre director creates the middle school variety show, Beyond the Sea.
8 OPERATION SANDWICH
6,889 sandwiches were made at the second annual Operation Sandwich.
9 DESIRE TO INSPIRE: TECH TO AFRICA
Junior David Ntim organizes a virtual tech drive to assist a medical mission in Ghana, West Africa.
10 FALL FUN DAY
This fall students enjoyed time out of the classroom and outdoors to compete with their classmates.
Send story ideas to laura.goodyear@charchrist.com Send alumni news to alumni@charchrist.com Send address changes to margaret.jackson@charchrist.com
21 ATHLETIC SPOTLIGHT 23 FINE ARTS SPOTLIGHT 25 DEVELOPMENT 26 CLASS NOTES
29 ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT 31 ANNUAL REPORT 35 SCRAPBOOK
Dear CCS Community, It was a handwritten letter with a return address and name that I did not recognize. Typically, I spend very little time with these types of letters (yes, oddly enough I receive quite a few) but the Spirit prompted me to pause and read this one. The kind lady who wrote the letter vividly reminded me of our mission to train and equip students to impact the culture for Christ. Last summer, this lady and her husband drove to Pawley’s Island, S.C. to join their son and his family for a needed vacation. Their son arrived one day early and when she arrived the son said the weather forecast is fantastic, but unfortunately there are eight high school students in the unit above us. He further explained that the previous evening the group stayed up way too late and he had to call security to complain after he banged on their door to no avail. The dad was disappointed that his young children had a rough night of sleep due to the noise from above. The next morning the family found on their doorstep a beautiful plant, a gift card to Starbucks and a card that said on the front “I messed up.” Inside the card the students had written, “We are so sorry for the ruckus. We are leaving tomorrow and we hope this helps with our apology.” The family went upstairs to thank the students for their gifts, and when they inquired what school they attended they eagerly said, “Charlotte Christian, we just graduated.” The lady and her son were so impressed with the maturity and responsibility of these students that they have told many friends about the wonderful kids at Charlotte Christian and subsequently sent me a letter. These students didn’t share the gospel, but they did model the Christian walk. Our students and graduates are not perfect, but we pray that we all own our mistakes and make them right when able. I am proud of these recent graduates that they had the maturity and wisdom to recognize they needed to make amends in this situation. They probably have not thought about this incident since last summer, but here I am receiving a note in December about it. This is a great reminder that people are always watching us and our actions and words have a far greater impact that we often realize. May we continue to graduate and send out young men and women who will encourage more handwritten letters to my office praising our students’ testimonies. God Bless,
Barry Giller Head of School UPPER SCHOOL PLAY, MURDER AT THE CHILI COOK-OFF
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charlotte christian school Charlotte Christian is celebrating 70 years of excellence in Christian education this school year. It all began in the 1950s when a man by the name of Dr. L. Pointdexter McClenny recently started his ministry at Calvary Presbyterian Church, located in uptown Charlotte. Having a young family of his own, Dr. McClenny cast a vision for local Christian education, setting into motion a chain of events leading up to Charlotte Christian School as we know it today. Dr. McClenny’s commitment to youth was reflected in the establishment of Calvary Christian Day School. Classes were held at the church with nearly 100 students in kindergarten through sixth grade. Fast forward to 1958, when a month-long Billy Graham Crusade was held at Charlotte’s Ovens Auditorium. A group of local businessmen came away from the revival with a heart for Christian education in Charlotte. They faithfully organized Christian High School in 1960. Nearly 10 years later, Calvary Christian Day School and Christian High School merged to become Christian School Association of Charlotte, Inc., creating a kindergarten through 12th grade institution. Before opening at its present site in 1972, the board purchased 15.5 acres at 7301 Sardis Road. (Over the next 38 years, the board continued to purchase property and grow the campus to its current size of 54 acres.) So on March 12, 1972 ground was broken for the first building at the current site, now the Middle School Building named for Harry Graham, and the rest is history!
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campus history
1960 • June 3, 1964 - Christian High School graduated its first class with seven seniors.
1950 •
Calvary Christian Day School opened for students in kindergarten through sixth grade.
1970 • 1972 - The school relocated to its present location on Sardis Road. • 1972 - Middle School Building
• 1968 - Christian High School formed and then merged with Calvary Christian Day School to become Christian School Association of Charlotte, Inc.
1980 • 1988 - Lower School Building, Administration Building, Dining Hall, Guy Gym moved to campus
2000 • 2000 - Dining Hall addition, Lamb/Johnson Gym renovated • 2006 - Synthetic surface added to athletic stadium field • 2007 - Upper School addition • 2012 - Warner Field House, Guy Gym Expansion, Hendrick Center for Arts and Science • 2014 - Flenniken Dining Hall, Upper School Building • 2015 - Bryte Little Efird Media Center renovated • 2017 - Center for Worship and Performing Arts
• 1975 - Lamb Gym
Charlotte Christian Knight Joyce Flenniken
CCS employee 1970-2003
• 1976 - Renamed Charlotte Christian School • 1979 - Upper School Building
1990 • 1997 - Early Education Building
Joyce Flenniken worked at Charlotte Christian for 33 years from August of 1970 to June of 2003. She served the school in several roles including in the business office, secretary for the head of school’s office, athletic office and middle school office and ran the school store. Joyce’s husband, Ken, was also an employee at Charlotte Christian with the facilities department for 42 years. The couple had four of their five daughters to graduate from CCS and have had four grandchildren attend. She emphasized that the school has stayed on mission and wouldn’t be where it was today without a legacy of parent participation. “The camaraderie of parents was great. They were so involved. They would hold bazaars and fundraisers that would supplement the school’s budget,” said Mrs. Flenniken. “God has really blessed this school,” shared Mrs. Flenniken. “I enjoyed being able to work with Godly, dedicated Christians for 33 years and get to know the parents and students. The Christian environment is so important where the seed is planted in the students and they flourish and then some students come back to work here.” In 2003 the Flennikens were honored for their many years of dedication and service to Charlotte Christian. At that time the remodeled dining hall was renamed for the Flennikens, and they celebrated Joyce’s retirement after 33 years with the school.
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70 year highlights
1998
three National Merit Finalists
1,134
highest enrollment in August, 2020
107
largest graduating class in 2011, 60th year
1950 Founded
Charlotte christian school firsts Oct. 24, 1964
1976
1969
1981
CCS hosted its first Homecoming at a home soccer game. Now the event is held at a home football game incorporated with events for alumni.
The school was renamed Charlotte Christian School with the Knight as its mascot.
1990
Upper school students participated in a mini course in which they traveled to 14 locations to receive unique educational experiences. Now they participate in J-Term to engage in experiences outside of the classroom.
Spirit week during Homecoming where students participated in theme dress up days.
1982
School received accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
1986 Senior Sneak became a tradition where the seniors headed to the mountains to go skiing. Now seniors travel to Breckenridge, Colo. every winter for a week-long trip with their classmates and program.
1975
Christian Service Counsel was created as a volunteer service club with credit given for completing 60 hours of volunteer service.
1987
The girls’ cross country team won our first state championship for the Knights.
1998
In the National Merit Scholarship Competition, Charlotte Christian had its first three National Merit finalists this year. Over the last 15 years, CCS has had 10 award recipients, 18 finalists and 49 commended scholars.
2004
First time upper school spiritual retreat (grades 7-12) to Awanita Valley. Now the middle and upper school go to Asheville for a retreat at Windy Gap each fall.
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Produced the play Our Town with a cast of more than 20 upper school students. Now at least three mainstage theatre productions are put on each year.
Knights Gala would take place with Homecoming festivities and include games and activities. Now Knightsfest is hosted each year for our annual family fun and fellowship afternoon including inflatables, food and games.
54
acres at current location
40
athletic state championships
7
seniors graduated in first class in 1964
Charlotte Christian Knight 2007
2017
Dan Smith
CCS former board member Dan Smith is a former board member of the school who along with his wife, had two daughters graduate from CCS. He joined the board in 1997 after moving to Charlotte.
Tailgate and Donate transitioned into Knights Fight Hunger week. Now twice a year CCS supports ministries local and abroad.
Two Lower School RoboKnights teams advanced to participate in the VEX Robotics World Championships. The RoboKnights Girls won the VEX IQ Challenge Worlds STEM Research Project Award, a prestigious honor based on their year-long project that focused on how robotics can help students with special needs, specifically children with autism.
2018 Grandparents’ Day in the lower school is a longstanding tradition where grandparents are invited to campus to watch their grandchildren sing and visit their classrooms.
2016
CCS received the first Volunteer of the Year Award from The Harvest Center. CCS introduced the annual Knight Tank program that encourages students and teachers to develop and implement new and innovative programs to enhance educational experiences. Knights in Flight was the first group awarded funds that brought a new drone education program to CCS.
The Class of 2018 was the first group of seniors to participate in the now annual Senior Walk where the students walk through campus donning their caps and gowns and college T-shirts while the CCS community cheers them on.
“For me the amazing part about being part of Charlotte Christian is the entire community comes together for the one purpose and that’s as a Christ-centered school. I came on board just when the Early Education Building was complete but was able to be part of the renovation of the dining hall and the Lamb/ Johnson Gym.” Mr. Smith recalls annual events like organizing shoeboxes for kids at the Christian Haiti School and then the students traveling to Haiti to deliver them, and Windy Gap being a great kick off to the school year. From attending chapels to enjoying the theatre and cheering at Friday night football games, his family made lots of great memories at the school. “CCS allowed us to have a goal as a family to be part of something that was really good in our community,” shared Mr. Smith. “It wasn’t just happened in the classrooms or the fields, it was a place that had influence not just in our community but in our Kingdom.” And he now has a second generation coming to Charlotte Christian with two granddaughters in the lower school. “I love seeing how they are benefitting and thriving at the school and embracing all that CCS has to offer.”
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some Charlotte Christian students were At-Home learners. It was important to the fine arts department that all students be given a chance to participate in the play, regardless of where their learning was happening - this play was not going to be a fit. Students auditioned with material from The Little Mermaid as planned, but Ms. Hilton knew the show would need to be something different and unique.
Ms. Claire Hilton (‘11), middle and upper school theatre director, says she has “the show must go on ingrained in her spirit” from her professional theater background. Never could she have anticipated all of the circumstances and what a mountain would need to be moved to make Beyond the Sea, the middle school variety show, happen. God’s hand was evident throughout the process and not only did the show go on, but the show went on for God’s glory. New to Charlotte Christian as a teacher, but a 2011 CCS graduate, Ms. Hilton entered employee orientation with her first major project to direct the middle school musical, The Little Mermaid. Part of that first week of planning was spent having a conversation about what the purpose should be behind Charlotte Christian’s fine arts productions. Was it to put on a big, flashy show, or was it to find experiences of education and growth rooted in biblical context? Through the experiences of the next 11 weeks, Ms. Hilton learned that “the process is the point,” when directing a play during a global pandemic or otherwise. Just before auditions, a seemingly impossible challenge came. It was clear that the copyright laws of the original play dictated that the show could not be performed digitally and had to be performed for a live audience. Due to COVID-19,
After looking at a few other titles and choices, Ms. Hilton had the idea of performing a variety show - small acts and small groups - produced more like a movie than a play. With a new plan, Ms. Hilton, having only taken a playwriting class in college, put pen to paper and Beyond the Sea was created. The process was “surprisingly, incredibly easy” which she says is a testament to the students. “I took what happened in auditions to make characters,” shared Ms. Hilton. “Creative students making such bold choices made that easy.”
The rehearsal process started with music, then dance and lastly acting, backwards from the way a musical is usually produced. Because of protocols, singing could not take place inside; all involved rose to the challenge and then some, helping with the outside set up and take down each day. With the help of an outside music director and audio engineer, two weeks of music rehearsal culminated in singing songs in a make-shift recording studio built on a loading dock outside.
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Dance choreography presented its own challenges. Because it was a priority to keep rehearsal numbers small, the performers were divided into seven small color groups, each group a part of a feature number and the opening and closing numbers. The groups were taught separately, with very few all-cast rehearsals. “To see it all come together - it was electric in a way that you don’t usually get in a production,” said Ms. Hilton. “Mr. Justin Bingham (CCS creative media specialist) used his vision and artistry to take the production to the next level (through his videography),” Ms. Hilton said. Mr. Bingham filmed each song and number as a separate movie; masks were worn and actors took them off only to lip sync to their own prerecorded voices. Once these were filmed and while they were being edited, the cast worked on their acting. What came from the necessary pivot at the beginning of the production was an event that combined on-stage performance while using screens and pre-recorded material. In all of the changes and adjusting, Ms. Hilton said she never once worried about the amazing cast being successful. As sixth grade performer Anne Louise Magee reflected on her experience being a part of the show, she explained that, “the process was like Jack from the play. In Beyond the Sea, he’s always searching for treasure. He doesn’t find it at first, but he keeps working and trying and doesn’t give up. I learned that if you want something, you should work hard at it, and not give up!
Charlotte Christian productions typically rely on parent volunteers for everything from costume making to building sets. Because of the school’s COVID-19 protocols, volunteers were not allowed on campus. A few upper school students volunteered to help and wore many hats during the weeks of rehearsal and production. One of the upper school volunteers, junior Katelyn Caldwell, said of this experience, “I feel truly thankful that I got to be a part of something that’s never happened at CCS before. We took COVID and we made a wonderful production, and that was really amazing to see.”
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6,889 sandwiches prepared
This was the second year Operation Sandwich took place on Charlotte Christian’s campus. All JK-12 students had the opportunity to serve by making sandwiches for our homeless community. With the sandwich making supplies donated by Charlotte Christian families and the cooperation and service of CCS students, 6,889 sandwiches were made and distributed to those in need in the Charlotte area through four organizations, including Freedom Within Walls. Freedom Within Walls (FWW) was a name Pastor James Scott heard from the Lord and he thought God was leading him to start a prison ministry. Though the Scotts didn’t ultimately end up serving those currently incarcerated, they do serve those whose circumstances could be classified as equally confining. Addressing the lack of adequate basics - food, school supplies and educational and nutritional resources - has become the charge for those who serve at FWW. “It all started in Greenville, S.C. in 2009, where we found that kids who were coming to our church after school, about 15 or so, were really hungry, so we started providing them with snacks,” Pastor Scott shared. That initial group of children has grown to more than 5,000 children being fed each day in Greenville and Charlotte. 85% of the children they serve eat only what they are fed through FWW.
“The outreach programs at Charlotte Christian are not designed or intended to be a one-time occurence,” said Mr. Karl Simon, director of production and outreach at Charlotte Christian. “Rather, the vision for our programs is to engage the mind and heart, so that the body can serve. Our first opportunity came this year with Operation Sandwich, and despite making roughly 7,000 sandwiches, we know it is just a drop in the bucket with regards to the needs in our community. But just as a great multitude was fed with a humble offering of loaves and fish, our deposits will be multiplied in the Kingdom’s economy.” Over the course of the year, CCS will look to highlight and educate about our service partners in an effort to not only show who we serve, but give students insight into the “how” and “why” of our serving. Scan the QR for more information on Freedom Within Walls. 2020-21 ISSUE 1 n
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Desire to Inspire:
Tech to Africa
were found to have serious medical problems were referred to the nearest district hospital. The Ghana and USA health teams also collaborated in gaining knowledge on tropical diseases. David participated in the opening and commissioning of the clinic’s new wing. He helped set up the automated external defibrillator (AED) and trainer pack which was used to train health professionals and was later donated to the Kwahu Atibie Government Hospital.
In the summer of 2019 upper school student David Ntim participated in an international medical mission in Ghana, West Africa with Give Hope Global, a Charlotte-based Christian organization. The mission took place in Pepease, a small rural community in the Kwahu East district of Ghana. The goals of this mission were to provide school health screenings to Pepease students and to set up the first computer learning center in Pepease while demonstrating the love of Jesus Christ. Along with volunteering in education and healthcare, David was the unofficial photographer of the group. He saw this experience as an opportunity to help others and to connect to his Ghana roots, as an American with Ghanaian parents. The medical mission took place at the Pepease Health Center. The Give Hope medical team partnered with the Ghana medical team to complete health screenings on more than 200 school-aged children. Screenings included growth checks, blood pressure readings, visual and auditory testing as well as verification of immunizations being up to date. Children who 9
CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
At the Pepease Presbyterian Information and Communication Technology (ICT) center, David was able to help install computers. While a lot of work was completed, there is still a need for additional computers, accessories and software to meet the demand for computer learning resources and improve computer literacy. David partnered with Rev. Kennedy Twum-Barimah, the pastor and district minister of the
Presbyterian Church of Ghana in Pepease Kwahu, to determine these remaining technology needs. Due to COVID-19 David’s anticipated trip to Ghana in 2020 was canceled but a virtual mission project, Tech to Africa, was formed. Donations are made by purchasing items on an Amazon wishlist that are then delivered directly to Ghana.
David is looking forward to participating in future international missions to share God’s word while better understanding global cultures. He reminds us, “It doesn’t matter if someone is young, old, experienced or inexperienced we can all make a difference by desiring to inspire.”
“The short-term impact (of Tech to Africa) has been to improve the ICT center, equip the center with computers, accessories and teaching aids and create a beneficial learning environment for students and teachers. The long-term impact is to evaluate outcomes, such as student performance in national standardized tests in computer skills and teacher satisfaction,” David said.
CC OO NN NN EE XX II OO NN LL EE BB AA NN OO NN V I RT UAL C O LLE C T I O N D RI V E In December Charlotte Christian partnered with Connexion Lebanon, an organization that assists with aid to the impoverished Lebanese people. The mission of the organization is “to pair families in Lebanon with sponsors abroad to ensure critical families receive the basic necessities of food, medicine, clean water, hygienic products and electricity on a monthly basis.” These needs have
seen a significant increase during the pandemic and following the devastation by the explosion in Beirut last summer. The organization was created with the support of the entire Saleh family. Mr. Charles Saleh served on the board of trustees at Charlotte Christian for more than a decade and he and his wife, Mary, have five children, four of which
Scan the QR to purchase Tech to Africa items on the Amazon wishlist.
Scan the QR for more information on Connexion Lebanon.
have graduated from CCS, as well as a grandchild in the lower school. Mr. Saleh and his family immigrated to the U.S. from Lebanon when civil war began in the late 1970’s and have continued to support the people of Lebanon over the last several decades. With the continued unrest and needs in Lebanon growing, the family started Connexion Lebanon.
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Fall Fun Days
After wrapping up what has been another successful first semester at Charlotte Christian, we are able to look back onto some of the greatest memories we have made thus far in the 2020-21 school year. Between numerous memorable chapel services, class spirit days, and even the arrival of a custard truck at the upper school, the Fall Fun Days that took place in each division without a doubt take the top spot. Students in the lower, middle and upper school were given the opportunity to spend a day with their classmates, competing in various class competitions and division-wide bonding activities.
Communications Intern
LOWER SCHOOL
The lower school students went outside into the beautiful fall weather and competed with classmates in their Fall Fun Day! Not only did they race their way through an obstacle course, but they also participated in an art project and a super cool STEM activity. I asked first grader Miles Jackson and third grader Jane´ Jooste a few questions to gain some insight into how the Fall Fun Day went down.
Q: What was your number one
favorite game you played during the Fall Fun Day and why?
Jane´ Jooste: ”My favorite activity was the obstacle course because I loved all the twists and turns. I also liked that we were competing. It was a great challenge because I liked balancing on the beam and crawling under the hurdles.”
Q: Tell me a little bit about the
STEM experiment you got to do. What was your reaction to the experiment?
Jane´ Jooste: “Our experiment was dropping Mentos into Coke and seeing the chemical reaction. When I dropped my five Mentos in my Coke, it exploded! My reaction was amazed and surprised.”
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Q: What class competition was
most exciting to win and how did your class celebrate the win? Miles Jackson: “Volley was a fun competition with my class. We got to 60 points and we gave each other high fives.”
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Moving off campus to Central Church of God for the day, middle school students spent their fall retreat focusing on team building activities and competitions. Additionally, they were able to worship and hear a chapel sermon from Pastor J.P. Long. Students had an amazing time bonding together with friends, teachers and their own grades, and they made memories to last a lifetime!
Q: What was your favorite part of
the worship service during the Fall Fest?
Ava Frampton: “I really liked it when Pastor Justin from Central Church spoke at our retreat. He was really inspirational and connected to us as teenagers in a meaningful way.”
UPPER SCHOOL
Q: How did you and your
classmates come together to win a competition and what competition was it?
Ava Frampton: “It was the Candy Corn Passing Contest. Each team had to use spoons to pass the candy corn to your teammates and then dump the last spoonful into a cup. You kept doing this until the timer went off. My classmates had to show patience, accuracy and teamwork. My team did not win this event, but I did win the pie eating contest for my Advisory group!”
At the Upper School Fall Frenzy, students spent the day outside of the Upper School Building participating in advisory competitions, including dodgeball, capture the flag and powder puff! Each grade was decked out in spirit wear to cheer on their classmates as they competed and decorated their class hallways. The upper school senior prefects spent numerous weeks planning for the Fall Frenzy and worked with Mrs. Patty Little, upper school dean of students, and Mrs. Emily Fair, upper school student activities facilitator, to put on a super fun day for the students.
Q: What was your favorite part of Fall Frenzy and why was it your favorite?
Q: What was the experience like
being able to play dodgeball and powder puff and compete as a senior class against the other grades?
Hudson Collins (athletic prefect): ”It was a really special and fun event. It felt like we had some normalcy to our senior year and we could just have fun and not worry about COVID-19. It was the first time we could get together as a whole grade and have a Windy Gap type experience.”
Caroline Banker (student life prefect): “Personally, my favorite part of Fall Frenzy was the Senior Circle. To kick-off the day, seniors were able to sit in the Alkire Auditorium all together for the first time this year. Mrs. Webber shared some personal highs and lows throughout her life and detailed to us what our grade meant to her. She was able to open up our students and create a warm, inviting and vulnerable space. After she shared, we had several mics set up around the room where other seniors could share uplifting moments they have experienced throughout their years at Charlotte Chrisitan. Seniors were able to compliment their fellow classmates that have left a great impact on them and thank them for all that they have done. There was laughter and tears, but through it all, the senior grade was able to reflect on who we are as a class and what all we have been through together.”
Additionally, I talked to Mr. Shonn Brown, upper school principal, for a few moments about the importance of these days for the students in each division and why it was so vital for the students to be able to spend time bonding together, especially during this time of confusion and disarray in the world. “Social connection is critical to the physical and mental well-being of our students,” said Mr. Brown. “The fall frenzy student activity day created space for our students to engage with each other outside of academics. Our students need to connect socially.” I could not have said it any better; the Fall Fun Days were certainly a success! With all the competitions and class bonding, students in each division truly did have an amazing experience during the Fall Fun Days and made memories that they are sure to never forget. 2020-21 ISSUE 1 n
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KNIGHTS HEADLINES
Blumenthal Junior Ambassador Program The Blumenthal Junior Ambassador program is a creative way for young and passionate students to learn and be involved with everything that goes on at Blumenthal. During a typical school year, Junior Ambassadors attend a series of seminars, through which they learn about the inner workings of a large non-profit performing arts center, including career paths and community involvement in the arts, as well as have the opportunity to volunteer, usher and see shows. As is the case in most areas now, COVID-19 had forced the program to adapt and modify. Participants meet monthly via Zoom, learning about new topics such as, advertising and the financial side of performing arts. Guest speakers allow a glimpse into real life experiences.
“I have been able to learn so much from the overall experience and I’m so glad I was able to participate in the program!” Maggie Blakeney Current CCS Junior & Blumenthal Junior Ambassador
Birthdays & Milestones
Lower & Middle School
Spirit Rock 13 CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
have a new place to show off this year. The new lower and middle school spirit rock has brought smiles and fun to a challenging school year. The idea was born when current middle school student Piper Fair enlisted the help of three friends to coordinate a presentation for Knight Tank. Piper along with Adaline Robinson, Lexi VanHoy and Chloe Simon were awarded funds for their proposals in the fifth annual Knight Tank competition, an initiative to encourage students and teachers in developing and implementing new and innovative programs to enhance educational experiences. “The girls did all of the work on the PowerPoint and the presentation,” said their faculty sponsor Mrs. Emily Fair. “They were rock stars!” Response to the new rock has been very successful. The rock is being used for birthdays, congratulations and some classes are using it to celebrate their teachers. Members of the CCS community may sign up for a date to paint the rock at the link found in the weekly Focus.
Tales of a
Fourth Grade Writer When one thinks of typical descriptors of a fourth grader, an accomplished magazine writer might not be the first thing that comes to mind. Say hello to current CCS fourth grader Dottie Collins Phillips. As soon as she could write Dottie began referring to this favorite pastime of hers as, “putting my thoughts on paper!” Her third grade teacher, Ms. Jill Harouny, introduced her to different styles of writing in fun ways and fed her passion. Dottie began writing a mystery and was hooked. In fourth grade Mrs. Vaughn and Mrs. Payne continue to inspire and encourage her as they help her to strengthen her writing skills. Delia McMullen, editor of Myers Park and South Park Life Magazines, learned about Dottie’s love of writing and after she submitted a couple of articles, came to meet her. After the meeting Dottie became a resident reporter, the youngest reporter in fact. As Dottie states, “I feel honored to write for Myers Park and Southpark Life Magazine. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to
express my thoughts publicly as a 4th grader.” Dottie’s parents, Clay and Meredith Phillips share, “It is so much fun to have our little girl so excited about writing and to see her work published. We are beyond grateful to Delia McMullen for believing in her and for giving someone so young a chance. To be at Charlotte Christian and watch her love of writing grow as she is surrounded by amazing teachers in such a loving environment is a true blessing from the Lord and we are extremely grateful!”
Have you heard? Knightcast is the new podcast series that connects and engages with alumni and friends of Charlotte Christian. Director of Alumni Relations Reid Fronk (‘04) created the series as a way for the Charlotte Christian community to stay in-touch with alumni and learn more about their journey and how the school impacted their path. Two episodes have published featuring alums Daniel Bard (‘03), MLB pitcher, and Eric Gunderson (‘03), American Country Music artist. “I love it. It gives me an excuse to reach out and catch up with alums who are doing great things; I love the opportunity to highlight people who have done so much and credit a lot of their foundation both personally and professionally to the relationships at Charlotte Christian,” said Mr. Fronk. Keep an eye out on our website as each episode premieres.
Scan the QR to listen to the podcast.
KNIGHT Cast
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EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT
Finding Home at charlotte christian by
brooke morgan, Middle School Principal
My husband and I grew up in a small town just east of Asheville, N.C. As it usually happens, we never realized just how much we appreciated our hometown until we were older. As a teenager, all I cared about was the fact that the closest mall was a dreadful hour and a half away. I took for granted the community of people who had known me since I was a baby, celebrated many milestones with me, picked me up from gymnastics when my mom needed to work late and stood by my family through every high and low that came our way. I dreamed of moving away and going to a big college (with hopefully more shopping opportunities) and found myself studying education at N.C. State University. Soon after graduating I moved to Charlotte and began teaching middle school. During the next 10 years I fell in love with teaching “in the middle,” where I found the students to be wonderfully awkward, hilarious, frustrating, fun and inspiring all at the same time. I had the pleasure of teaching all three grade levels and found that each group had their own unique set of characteristics. The sixth graders were bursting with energy and had limited spatial recognition; the seventh graders were unpredictable and were usually stuck on the friendship rollercoaster; the eighth graders knew it all (just ask any of their parents) and were literally living for the moment. This rapid transition from a child to a young adult in just three short years captivated my heart.
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As much as I enjoyed my job, there was still something missing. I longed for the community feel of my small hometown and I wanted that same experience for my then 9-year-old daughter. About that time, God opened up the doors to Charlotte Christian and from the moment I was hired, I knew that I was finally home. I love that our Charlotte Christian Knights are a tight-knit community, providing that small hometown feel within the large city of Charlotte. While I first started at CCS in the upper school, I know that God placed me there for a reason. During the past three years, I have developed a much better understanding of what our middle school students need as they transition from fifth to ninth grade. Along with a strong academic program, middle school students need adults who will carry them through the most pivotal times in their lives. After finishing up my first semester, as principal I can say with confidence that every faculty and staff member in the middle school has been called to their position for a very specific reason. As a mom of a seventh grader, Graycen, (along with Tucker, 3, and Annie, 1), and as a principal, I am grateful for their dedication and for the impact they are making on students’ lives. There is no denying that Charlotte Christian School is special and there is no other place I would rather my family be. I am honored to call this school and our community ‘home’. Thank you for the opportunity to serve your family.
Sights & Sounds
of creativity by
Leslie Niessner, Director of Fine Arts
I dabbled in all of the fine arts as a youngster - summer camp at Children’s Theatre of Charlotte, dance lessons, piano lessons, church choir and art lessons. Ultimately I found my place in music and by high school, I was involved in all things music - wind ensemble, marching band, jazz band, orchestra, musicals, you name it. I spent more time in the band room than I did at home. I was blessed with great teachers and mentors who fostered my natural affinity for music, but it was one particularly influential band director at Myers Park High School who challenged me to dream that I could be a band director myself. He poured into me, developing untapped leadership and teaching skills, and I soon came to recognize that my musical gifts could also be used as a wonderfully creative and joyful vehicle for connecting with and influencing others. I went to Indiana University in pursuit of an undergraduate degree in music education. The Lord surrounded me with new mentors who challenged me,
stretching my gifts in both music and teaching, opening doors for me to impact students through music at every turn. After graduating, I taught middle and high school band in Union County Public Schools where I spent the next 15 years developing my craft, growing into my gifts and building relationships through the shared experience of making music. Forever fascinated by music pedagogy, I also completed a Master of Music degree from Winthrop University along the way. The Lord called me to Charlotte Christian School in the spring of 2015 when, truth be told, I wasn’t looking for a change. Accustomed to working in fast paced, large public school band programs and feeling rather attached to my band students and their families, I struggled for clarity and understanding as to why the Lord chose me. Why Charlotte Christian? Why now? It wasn’t long before I realized that the Lord was grooming me for a new season of service to his kingdom and, true to His word, God was faithful in supporting me through a season of transition.
This year, after spending five wonderful years serving in the band room, I assumed the role of director of fine arts. The 20 years I spent coaching, mentoring and collaborating with musicians from the podium prepared me well for the work I am honored to do in this new role where my days are filled with the sights and sounds of creativity, a constant reminder of God’s blessings and divine design. I have spent the past semester getting to know the many new fine arts faculty members that joined our family this year and partnering with my talented and dedicated team to navigate how to best foster artistic growth in the face of COVID-19 restrictions. In the coming years, my husband Jay and I look forward to raising our sons Charlie (age 4) and Jackson (age 2) in the Charlotte Christian family and I am eager to continue shepherding our fine arts faculty and students to realize their full potential as artists, actors and musicians with a unique and valued voice to share with the world through the arts, impacting the culture for Christ.
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phase 2 complete! NEW ATHLETIC COMPLEX FOR LACROSSE, SOCCER & TENNIS PROGRAMS Charlotte Christian hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony on Nov. 18, 2020 for a new athletic complex on the northernmost part of our campus that houses the Harvick Field House with locker rooms for the soccer and tennis programs, bathrooms, a concession stand and a trainer’s room. In addition to the field house, the new area also includes eight tennis courts; Guy Field, an artificial turf field for the soccer and lacrosse programs; a loop road to connect these facilities with the main campus; and additional parking areas.
17 CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Construction on the new area began January 2020 as part of the school’s 2025 Vision Strategic Plan. Participating in the ribbon cutting ceremony were members of the board of trustees, student-athletes, administrator builders and architects. “This is an exciting day for Charlotte Christian School,” shared Head of School Barry Giller. “We are grateful to our former CCS Head of School Cal Huge who had the forethought to purchase this land when it became available years ago. We are thankful to our donors for their generosity and kindness. Our student-athletes are excited for the opportunity to compete at this new complex. I am appreciative to the leadership of the board of trustees in remaining committed to the school’s master campus plan.”
“I greatly appreciate Charlotte Christian’s commitment to soccer by having a dedicated field and facility. I look forward to winning many games on this field.” - Junior Habtamu McLain
“After five years on the CCS tennis team, I am very excited to be able to play on campus on our new home courts! The new sports complex is a great addition to our campus and I can’t wait for our next fall season!” - Junior Savannah Perry 2020-21 ISSUE 1 n
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ACADEMIC SPOTLIGHT
1
NATIONAL MERIT FINALIST & COMMENDED SCHOLARS Senior Zach Brown was named a finalist in the 66th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Zach will now go on to compete for approximately 7,600 annual National Merit® Scholarships that will be offered next spring. Seniors Jonathan Fasciana and Hank Soule were named Commended Students in the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program.
Zach Brown is a Charlotte Christian School lifer. He is a longtime contributor to the CCS music program having played cello since fourth grade and serving as a key member on the upper school honors orchestra. Zach also competes on the CCS varsity swim team and swims competitively outside of CCS as well. He is an AP Scholar with Distinction, recipient of the Summa Cum Laude Honor Roll, National Honor Society member and was selected his sophomore year to receive the sophomore male Timothy Award for “Service Above Self.” Zach spends his spare time volunteering for CCS performing arts events, is a peer tutor and volunteers in the community with his swim club.
Jonathan Fasciana
Zach Brown
2
Hank Soule
BIOGRAPHY WAX MUSEUM Our third grade students portrayed important historical and cultural figures in costume for the annual Biography Wax Museum. The live experience was recreated this year in a virtual museum where the wax figures were recorded coming to life and discussing their lives and accomplishments. The students presented individually in a recording session and then all of the videos were combined into one presentation and shared with parents. Lower School Media Specialist Katey Balikian said, “The students love this event! While the students did not have a live audience this year, the added benefit is that they can watch their classmates’ hard work, and we can share the videos with many other students and staff that may not normally be able to come.”
Skylar Sarratt, Simone Biles 19 CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Miller Kernodle, Stan Lee
Izzy Escuder, Marie Curie
Gray Peede, Jackie Robinson
3
COLLEGE BOARD SCHOLAR Senior Kennedy Young was named a College Board National African American Recognition Program Scholar based on her academic performance, PSAT score and her application submitted last spring. Kennedy is a member of the National Spanish Honor Society, has been awarded the George Eastman Young Leaders Award, has been on the Summa Cum Laude Honor Roll throughout upper school and is an AP Scholar with Honor. Kennedy has participated in Harvard Model Congress and is a member of the varsity volleyball team and varsity track and field team. Kennedy is copresident of the Knots for Tots Club, an organization that makes friendship bracelets to distribute to children in the community, and is on the Ronald McDonald House Teen Volunteer Board. She has served young women and children through mission trips to Dominican Republic and Ethiopia.
Kennedy Young
4 5
AP SCHOLARS Charlotte Christian students and recent graduates earned Advanced Placement (AP) Scholar distinctions. A total of 58 AP honors were earned by students based on AP exams taken in May of 2020.
Scan the QR to see a list of CCS AP Scholars.
STUDENTS PARTICIPATE IN DIME PROGRAM Junior Habtamu McLain, senior Mya Olmeda and junior Ryan Swilling participated in the Diversity Investment Management Engagement (DIME) program this fall. DIME is a six-week course created by a CCS alumni parent and presented by a coalition of industry and education stakeholders who seek to broaden the racial representation of the investment management industry. The mission of DIME is to develop the next generation of diverse and successful investment talent. Junior Ryan Swilling shared that, “I really enjoyed the experience at the DIME Program. I learned a lot about stock and how to build wealth. I received a first place award for the profitability of my investment portfolio.” The award includes a $300 dollar gift card, media exposure in the investment banking industry and an opportunity to meet a lawyer at Morgan Stanley. “I am very grateful for the opportunity to have participated in the six-week program,” said Habtamu who has a new interest in exploring financial majors in college. “I’ve learned a lot about how to grow money into more money by investing in different company stocks. I was given a fake portfolio of $100,000 to invest in some stocks and in four weeks’ time, it grew $5,000 or 5%. This program really got me interested in possibly majoring in financial management in college.”
Habtamu McLain
Mya Olmeda
Ryan Swilling 2020-21 ISSUE 1 n
20
ATHLETIC SPOTLIGHT
Carson Chow Wheaton College
FOOTBALL
3
Jimmy Bailey Washington & Lee University
Philip Abner University of Florida
FOOTBALL
FALL & WINTER ATHLETIC SIGNINGS Congratulations to 12 Charlotte Christian studentathletes who signed national letters of intent to participate in collegiate athletics.
FOOTBALL
BASEBALL
2
Cameron Hicks Wofford College
ALL-CONFERENCE/ALL-STATE HONOREES Congratulations to the following students-athletes on earning CISAA All-Conference and NCISAA All-State recognition for fall sports. ALL-CONFERENCE Cheerleading Charlotte Abig Caroline Banker Kalen Bland Morgan Brown Cassidy Levinsky Sarah Whiting Cross Country Kendall Ficken Olivia Jones
21 CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Football Jimmy Bailey Carson Chow Hudson Collins Mason Diel Will Farrell Hudson Jones Chip Kasay Gavin Major Henry Rutledge* Ben Stokley Grant Tucker Drew Waldrop
Soccer Habtamu McLain Charlie Williams Tennis Savannah Perry Volleyball Elinor Langdon *also CISAA Player of the Year
ALL-STATE Cross Country Kendall Ficken Olivia Jones Football Jimmy Bailey Carson Chow Mason Diel Will Farrell
Hudson Jones Chip Kasay Henry Rutledge Tennis Savannah Perry Volleyball Elinor Langdon
1
NCISAA DIVISION 1 STATE FOOTBALL CHAMPIONS For the fourth straight year, the varsity football team won the NCISAA 4A state championship with a 27-21 win against Rabun Gap. The championship game was highlighted by an outstanding performance from senior Henry Rutledge (ran for 250 yards), who was later named the Charlotte High School Heisman Award recipient by Talking Preps’, the Big South 4A Player of the Year and the All-Observer Offensive Player of the Year. Congrats to Varsity Football Head Coach Jason Estep who was named All-Observer Coach of the Year.
1
Scan the QR to watch the game.
Breya Busby Liberty University
J.D. Suarez UNC-Charlotte
4
LACROSSE
BASEBALL
FOOTBALL
Phillip Slaughter Amherst College
BASKETBALL
Morgan Brown Baylor University
Hayden Brandon UNC-Charlotte
FOOTBALL
Henry Rutledge UNC-Charlotte
ACROBATICS & TUMBLING
BASEBALL
LACROSSE
Dylan Bedell Marist College
Ky Sutherland Lees-McRae College
FALL ATHLETIC SIGNINGS With COVID-19 protocols keeping most parents and fans off campus for fall athletics, the athletic department got creative about honoring our senior athletes. Rather than the traditional senior banners displayed on campus athletic venues, each senior athlete received a yard sign to display at their homes this year.
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FINE ARTS SPOTLIGHT
1
FURMAN UNIVERSITY HONOR BAND Congratulations to the following students for being selected to participate in the 2020 Furman University Honor Band: Grade 9 Alex Andrews Trumpet Clara Sadowski Clarinet Grade 10 Caroline Crews
Alto saxophone
This year’s clinic was a virtual workshop and performance in which students prepared and performed Amazing Grace by Frank Ticheli under the direction of Dr. Sue Samuels, director of bands at Furman University.
2
AN EVENING OF ONE ACTS The ACT 1 and ACT 2 theatrical groups were unable to attend competitions this fall, so instead they performed during the first annual Evening of One Acts. Each group performed a short show for a livestream. The upper school ACT 1 group performed Amelia Earhart and the middle school ACT 2 group performed The Hundred Dresses. ACT 1 Thomas Albee Karsen Betzold Whitney Johnson Jeffery Wilson Abby Wood
Scan the QR code to watch An Evening of One Acts
(Student Technical Apprentice)
3
ACT 2 Claire Carson Bennett DuBose Avery Elliot Isabelle Franklin Kendall James Evie Owens
Rachel Padilla Adaline Robinson Hannah Roddy
ART & TECHNOLOGY Middle and upper school students are learning to create through technology as an extension of their artistic eye. In Mr. Humphries’ middle school Creative Media classes, students used Apple’s Procreate app to make illustrations, sketches and animations. In Ms. Liebner’s upper school Digital Photography class, students used SLR digital cameras to capture their world and establish their artistic point of view.
To view samples of student work, scan the QR code for slideshows.
4 5
23 CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
4 5
THANKSGIVING CARD Eighth grader Kaya Shropshire’s artwork was selected as this year’s Thanksgiving card. Kaya created the watercolor painting in her Exploratory Art class. The card was printed and sent to Charlotte Christian community members to celebrate the Thanksgiving holiday.
FALL CONCERTS The fall upper school band and orchestra concert began with a live, red carpet entrance for students. The concert was a hybrid of pre-recorded video performances overlaid with a livestream. Student musicians had the unique opportunity to perform virtually and watch live together as a group in the Alkire Auditorium. Musicians who are learning from home also had the opportunity to participate in the concert via prerecorded videos. Students were treated to surprise videos of encouragement from their families that aired during the live production. During the show, 47 band, choir and orchestra students were inducted into the 2020-21 Tri-M Honor Society. Scan the QR code to watch the program.
6
CHRISTMAS AT CHRISTIAN In light of COVID-19 precluding in-person audiences, our fine arts department had to think outside the box in order to continue showcasing our students’ artistic talents. The traditional lineup of Christmas performances and festivities marched forward to bring focus to Jesus through a challenging season. The Lessons & Carols service was transformed into a five-week Advent podcast, starting Nov. 30 and culminating on Christmas Eve. The band and orchestra concerts were replaced by a Countdown to Christmas that highlighted a different ensemble performance throughout December. The lower school Christmas programs were combined into a livestream on the last day of school for the semester.
You can watch and enjoy all of the student performances by scanning the QR code. 2020-21 ISSUE 1 n
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DEVELOPMENT
charlotte christian school
CCS Sporting Clays Tournament | May 10, 2019
Sporting Clays Tournament
Charlotte Christian will host the sixth annual Sporting Clays Tournament on Friday, May 7, 2021 to benefit the Annual Fund. During the tournament, teams of four will compete as they cycle through 15 different stations. Participants will have the opportunity to bid on items through a silent auction and enjoy a catered lunch followed by an awards ceremony. Sponsorship opportunities are available as well. Please contact
‘21
Mr. Reid Fronk at reid.fronk@charchrist.com or (704) 3665657, ext. 4317 if you are interested in becoming a sponsor or volunteering at the event. The tournament will take place at Meadow Wood, a private hunting and clay shooting club located in Waxhaw, N.C. Registration for the Sporting Clays Tournament will open in late winter. Thanks again to title sponsor, Seedspark, for being an integral part of the event.
Thank you to all of the families who have generously supported the 2020-21 Annual Fund.
As a Christ-centered, college preparatory school, we rely on God’s provision through tax-deductible charitable contributions over and above tuition to sustain and enhance our programs and facilities. For 70 years, Charlotte Christian has equipped students to be extraordinary thinkers and Christhonoring decision makers. We have been blessed with academic excellence, a challenging curriculum, diverse co-curricular activities, excellent facilities, supportive families and an outstanding faculty. God has provided all of this for the school through the generosity, stewardship and volunteering spirit of many.
25 CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
More than $497,874 has been raised to date to support multiple campus initiatives. Visit the school’s website to make a gift or pledge.
Please scan the QR code for a list of families who have given for the 2019-20 school year.
future middle school building Next phase of Master Campus Plan
This June construction will begin on our new middle school, the next phase of our master campus plan. We anticipate the new building opening in August of the 2022-23 school year. This two-story building will include: • More than 23,000 square feet, doubling the current middle school space • Innovations Suite of three rooms with a dedicated robotics room, a STEM fabrication lab and a flexible use classroom which can be combined to use as one learning space • Dedicated learning space and offices for the Academic Services Program • Office space for both lower and middle school administration • Open space for student and staff collaboration
CLASS NOTES Send your alumni news to: alumni@charchrist.com
20 17
Kristen Snyder is a freshman at UNC-Chapel Hill and was recently put on staff with the Carolina Review.
Alexis Jones married Zane Burch on Dec. 5, 2020 during a small, at-home ceremony with their immediate families.
PFC Lauren Spangler completed her military training this year and is a combat medic with the N.C. Army National Guard. She took a semester off from Appalachian State University for 12 weeks of basic training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. She spent 16 more weeks completing her training as a 68W Combat Medic at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio. The final field training exercise was a week at Camp Bullis, applying life saving skills in the battlefield environment. In addition, she earned her national EMT certification and finished fourth for the women in the Fort Sam Houston “Swamp Challenge” physical fitness test. Lauren will complete her degree at ASU through the College First program while continuing to train with her unit, the 883rd Engineer Company. She will complete her service with the National Guard upon graduation.
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Tinayeshe “Kennedy” Manyika is graduating from UNC Charlotte with a degree in middle grades education and a concentration in science and social studies. He is currently completing a worship residency with his church, Lake Forest Church at Davidson, and is looking to work in one of those fields after college. Rachel Redmond graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with bachelor’s degree in peace, war, and defense. She is going on to pursue her master’s degree in political science with a focus on transatlantic security from UNC-Chapel Hill. Sarah Redmond graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with bachelor’s degree in media and journalism. She is working towards her master’s degree in art direction from the University of Richmond. 2020-21 ISSUE 1 n
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CLASS NOTES
15
Josh Bryant started a new career as a logistics specialist with XPOLogistics.
Connor Clavin became engaged to Jordan Chapman on May 29, 2020. The couple plans to marry on July 10, 2021 in Stanardsville, Va. Connor is currently a LTJG in the Navy, finishing Nuclear Power School in Charleston, S.C. Jordan is a registered nurse at Children’s Hospital of The King’s Daughters (CHKD) in Norfolk, Va. Luke Dexter is moving back to Charlotte from Phoenix, Arizona to work in the insurance business with his family at Dexter Insurance Associates. In his road trip back home, members of the class of 2014 and others surprised him with a quick reunion while traveling through Nashville, Tenn.
13
Morgan McManus married Nicholas Sembrat in December of 2019. She received her Juris Doctor degree from Wake Forest School of Law in May of 2020. Adrian Robinson married Katherine Boguski on Jan. 16, 2021. The ceremony was officiated by former CCS teacher and coach Doug Damon. Jake Cook
(‘13) and Neilson Jacobs (‘14) were groomsmen and Madie Dean Ludwick and Kenzie Brown, former CCS students, were bridesmaids. Several other CCS former students and alum, Erik Lynch (‘13), Ian Henderson (‘13), Elliot Neal, and Luke Dexter (‘14), were in attendance.
11
Sarah Brotherton married Chris Cimino on March 28, 2020 in a family-only, COVID-19 dictated ceremony. The couple recently enjoyed a honeymoon in St. Lucia. They live in Wilmington, N.C. where Sarah works as an Xray Tech at New Hanover Regional Medical Center. Meredith Haake Albee and her husband, Matt, welcomed their son, Arthur Roi on March 7, 2020.
10
Kelby Brown authored a research paper in Health Affairs called “Children and the Opioid Epidemic: Age-stratified Exposures and Harms” during a year of research with the Duke-Margolis Center for Health Policy. He is applying to neurology residency programs, and enjoying a beautiful fall with his toddlers, Etta and Vanessa.
Megan Dennehy (‘10) married Will Daniel (‘09) on Aug. 8, 2020. They were married in a waterfront ceremony at Megan’s grandparents’ home on Lake Norman. The couple lives in Charlotte. Megan currently works as a mental health therapist. Will serves as the children’s pastor at Carmel Baptist Church. Drew Thompson married Eleanor Sojka on Oct. 9, 2020 at Covenant Presbyterian Church. Stuart Caldwell (‘09), Jake Watson (‘10), William Bass (‘10) and Joe Wiens (‘10) were groomsmen.
07 06
Alexandria Kemp married Austin Baker on Oct. 17, 2020 at the beautiful venue, North Corner Haven! Elliot Engstrom recently moved back to the Charlotte area after several years living in Cleveland County. He is working as legal director for a national nonprofit while also practicing with his own law firm. Elliot and his wife, Natalie, have a 2-year-old daughter (Evelyn Jane) and a 1-year old son (Erik Joseph).
ALUMNI ALBUM
Luke Dexter (‘14)
Elliot Engstrom (‘06)
27 CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Lauren Spangler (‘17)
Josh Otarola (‘06)
Kennedy Manyika (‘16)
Hadley Hayes Mann (‘04)
Connor Calvin (‘14)
Kristy Apple Miller (‘03)
Morgam McManus (‘13)
Allison May Winkler (’02)
Josh Otarola was awarded a fellowship to attend the University of Maryland fulltime for a PhD in special education. He started the program this fall and plans to graduate in 2024. Hadley Hayes Mann and her husband, Will, welcomed their second baby, Patton Edward, on June 17, 2020. Mom, dad, and big sister, Francie, are all so in love with him! God is good!
04
The Michael Najaka family rounded a family of daughters by welcoming son Calvin Najaka to the family from China in December 2019.
03
Kristy Apple Miller and her husband, Ryan, welcomed their second daughter, Lila June, on Feb. 3, 2020. Big sister Emery is very proud and they couldn’t be more thankful for their precious blessing from the Lord.
02
Tressa Ribaudo Weber became a certified strength and conditioning specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association and is assisting the strength and conditioning coach at Sterling College in Sterling, Kan.
Adrian Robinson (‘13)
Tressa Weber (‘02)
Allison May Winkler is married to husband, Nate, and has two children: a daughter, Logan (3), and a son, Shepherd (1). She enjoys keeping up with other alumni through social media and seeing what is going on in their lives as their families and experiences grow. Her career path has taken her on a journey to help people change their health and wellbeing and Nate designs and builds websites and software. The couple currently lives in Boone, N.C. where Allison attended college at Appalachian State University.
01
Julie Apple Walker and her husband, Jason, welcomed a daughter, Lily Marie, to their family on May 29, 2020. Lily just turned six months and everyone is doing great!
00
Melissa Johnson Gorley and her husband, Zac, along with big brother Luke, welcomed Micah Lawson to the family on April 20, 2020. Micah was 9 lbs. 9 oz. and 21.5 inches long.
Sarah Brotherton Cimino Meredith Haake Albee (‘11) (‘10)
Julie Apple Walker (‘01)
Kelby Brown (‘10)
Melissa Johnson Gorley (‘00) Daniel Fogarty (‘98)
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Daniel Fogarty (‘98) married Haven Wagner (‘98) on April 25, 2020. The couple wed in the parking lot of Revolution Park in Charlotte with a drive-in wedding while in the midst of the pandemic. They were surrounded by loved ones tuning in via their car radio to hear the ceremony. Samantha Bonk married Avery McNeely on Oct. 9, 2020. After postponing their original wedding plans twice in 2020 due to COVID-19, they opted for a private service in the mountains of N.C. Samantha works for TD Bank in Commercial Real Estate. The couple resides in Matthews, N.C.
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Brooke Musterman is excited about the continued progress and growth with her podcast Let’s Talk Art With Brooke. Gresham Hill was named the vice president, marketing at Route1 Inc., a publiclytraded technology company based in Toronto, Ontario. He and his family have moved to their U.S. headquarters in Phoenix, Ariz.
Megan Dennehy Daniel (‘10)
Drew Thompson (‘10)
Alex Kemp Baker (‘07)
Samantha Bonk McNeely Brooke Musterman (‘93) (‘97)
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ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT
2020
Charlotte Christian School
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD This year’s recipient is Mrs. Kristi Wells. A 2001 graduate of Charlotte Christian. Her path led her to college at Texas Christian University where she met her husband, JD Wells. The couple now has three children and currently lives in the Washington, D.C. area.
The Distinguished Alumni Award is presented to an alum who has made
Professionally, she is an experienced business owner with a demonstrated proficiency of leading operations, growing revenues in multiple industries, building successful teams and leading innovative growth strategies for sales organizations including Advocare International, Shire Pharmaceuticals, Gannett and Tribune Media.
outstanding contributions to God’s Kingdom through their field of work, demonstrated a heart for Christ as a servant leader in their community and shown exceptional dedication to Charlotte Christian School.
In 2017, Mrs. Wells started Safe House Project, a national leading organization in the fight against human trafficking. Safe House Project operates two arms: Anti-Trafficking Business Consultancy and Safe House Development/ Survivor Impact. On the consultancy side, Safe House Project provides services to industryleading companies to elevate their human trafficking platforms through policies, procedures and trainings in
29 CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Kristi Wells Class of 2001 order to mitigate risk. Additionally, Safe House Project develops marketing fundraising promotions with corporate partners to showcase corporate social responsibility. When asked about CCS’s impact on her life, Mrs. Wells shared, “CCS forever changed my life. I arrived there in 8th grade and for the next five years, it was ingrained in me that God had a purpose for my life and that I was created to be a servant leader. This came to life when I was a junior at CCS and went on a mission trip to Costa Rica where I saw child sex trafficking for the first time. Upon returning and having my heart set on fire, I remember being told that I ‘could do something about it.’ I never let those words leave me. Nearly 20 years later, I am the CEO of a national anti-trafficking organization where we providing rescue, freedom and hope to America’s child sex trafficking victims. While at CCS I was given the audacious belief that I could impact the world. Today, by the grace and power of God, I am.”
2020
Charlotte Christian School
ALUMNI SERVICE AWARD Kristi Wells This year’s recipient is Mr. Mike Metcalf, a 2000 graduate of Charlotte Christian. He graduated from Appalachian State University where he also played football. Mike is married to Dara and the couple has two children.
The Alumni Service Award honors an alum who has consistently provided exemplary
volunteer
service
to
Charlotte Christian School, going above and beyond in devotion to the school. The award is given on an annual basis to an alum whose actions
demonstrate
outstanding
personal service and commitment to the school in promoting either the mission of CCS and/or the CCS Alumni Association.
Since college, Mr. Metcalf has made his career within NASCAR. He began in 2006 working as a pit crew member and mechanic with the Red Bull Racing Team. In 2011, he worked in a similar capacity with Michael Waltrip Racing and also became one of the team’s coaches. In 2013, he joined the Chip Ganassi Racing Team where he is currently the Head Pit Crew Coach and one of the most respected members of any pit crew across all of NASCAR. Out of their racing experiences, Mr. Metcalf and his teammate, Shaun Peet, founded DECK Leadership in 2017, a business consulting company based in Charlotte. Through DECK, they inspire and transform the modern workplace by uncovering opportunities for diversity, efficiency, culture and kindness rooted in principles based on their pit crew experience.
Mike Metcalf Class of 2000 In addition to helping establish the Charlotte Christian Alumni Board, Mr. Metcalf is very involved in serving in the community. He serves on the board for Daddy Saturday, a non-profit organization that equips fathers to be more intentional and engaged with their children, and for RunningWorks, Inc., an organization that uses sports to help empower individuals and families to break the cycles of abuse, abandonment, neglect, poverty and homelessness. He served as the president of the board of directors for the Charlotte Rescue Mission for two years and is an avid volunteer with the Ronald McDonald House. When asked about the influence of Charlotte Christian on his life Mr. Metcalf shared, “the ideals of character and excellence are instilled at every level (at Charlotte Christian) - spiritually, academically and athletically. More than anything, I’m grateful to CCS for challenging me and pushing me toward being excellent in my choices and habits, allowing me to experience success at the family and professional level.”
2020-21 ISSUE 1 n
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2019-20
ANNUAL REPORT CHRIST-CENTERED. COLLEGE PREPARATORY. EDUCATING THE WHOLE CHILD.
2019-20 OPERATING REVENUES tuition (net) 92.7% other fees/revenues
4.1%
contributions
3.2%
2019-20 OPERATING EXPENSES Salaries/Benefits
64.2%
Plant/Operations
25.7%
Instructional Costs
4.7%
Interest Expense
2.9%
General Admin.
2.5%
The financial results for Charlotte Christian School are audited on an annual basis by an external audit firm and presented to the board of trustees for review. A copy of the audited financial statements or the IRS 990 filing may be obtained by sending a written request to the address below. Questions on the financial data in this Annual Report or on other aspects of the financial operations of Charlotte Christian School may be directed to the chief financial officer. Charlotte Christian School | Attention: Terry Efird, Chief Financial Officer | 7301 Sardis Road Charlotte, NC 28270 | terry.efird@charchrist.com CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
CCS Employee Fun Day | Oct. 11, 2019
NET ASSETS (at June 30)
TOTAL DEBT OUTSTANDING (at June 30)
2018
2018
$27.9
2019
2019
$29.5
2020
$9.2
$32.4
MILLIONS
$8.2
2020
$20.0
MILLIONS In December 2019 the school structured a long term debt package for $20 million at a weighted average rate of 2.7% to refinance existing debt and to support future campus construction activity.
ENROLLMENT TRENDS
CONTRIBUTIONS - CASH RECEIPTS
2017-18
2018-19
2019-20
Lower school
404
411
414
Middle school
272
276
282
upper school
409
413
417
1,085
1,100
1,113
retention
95%
95%
96%
Endowment Gifts Parent Partnership
diversity
20%
21%
21%
Miscellaneous
total enrollment
*Enrollment trends based on August data.
2017-18
2018-19
2019-20
Capital $1,391,239 $1,177,043 Improvements
$952,688
Annual Fund
Total Cash Receipts
$530,965
$551,572
$605,779
$9,896
$7,749
$11,177
$79,886
$84,293
$88,166
$338,836
$293,709
$418,952
$2,350,822 $2,114,366 $2,076,762
2020-21 ISSUE 1 n
2019-20 Annual Fund Giving COVID-19 Responses:
• Established CCS Health Professionals Advisory Group to advise the school in response to COVID-19. • Installed a new air purification system. • Installed plexiglass partitions in administration offices. • Purchased additional tables for lunches outside and inside the dining hall. • Replaced tech infrastructure, improvements and enhancements to support digital learning. • Purchased vocal masks and instrument covers for middle and upper school choir and musicians and cast of all three mainstage musical productions. • Hired audio and video engineers and invested in Upbeat software to provide virtual performances. • Expanded cleaning staff and protocols. • Purchased fogger to disinfect buses and locker rooms. • Increased livestream offerings for home athletics events due to attendance limitations. • Provided Emergency Assistance Program to CCS parents who were impacted by job loss.
New Curriculum & Equipment:
• New curriculum in the lower school for reading and grammar; in the middle school for math; and in the upper school for biology, history and French. • New iPads and keyboard cases were purchased for middle school students. • Individualized manipulatives purchased for younger lower school students. • Expanded livestream and filming capabilities in CWPA and purchased additional cameras. • Updated banners on the light poles of the parking lot.
Co-Curricular Purchases:
• Purchased wrestling mat, goal post pads and pitching machine. • Upgraded the Athletic Stadium track surface and audio/video capabilities. • New LED lighting in Lamb/Johnson Gym. • Worked with two playwrights to adapt works specifically for our lower and upper school productions.
CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
2019-20 Capital and designated giving Master Campus Plan
As part of phase 2 in the master campus plan, the new athletic complex opened in November 2020 and houses the Harvick Field House with locker rooms for the soccer and tennis programs, bathrooms, a concession stand and a trainer’s room as well as eight tennis courts; Guy Field, an artificial turf field for the soccer and lacrosse programs; a loop road to connect these facilities with the main campus; and additional parking areas.
24 Hour Giving Challenge
Tuesday, March 10 The annual one-day event supported the purchase of a new 18-passenger bus to add to our fleet. The new bus gives the school more flexibility for student travel for field trips and away athletic events. More than 100 donors gave $35,400 towards the campaign.
Professional Development
Every summer our employees take part in summer reading and this past summer the team read “Uncommon Ground” edited by Timothy Keller and John Inazu and started the conversation of understanding each other’s backgrounds and stories. The conversation was carried on with guest speaker Dr. Walter Strickland who shared with our faculty and staff about how it is essential to have a biblical framework as a starting point for embracing diversity and building unity. He gave our faculty practical tips for how to implement this in the classroom. Dr. Strickland serves as Associate VP for Kingdom Diversity Initiatives & Assistant Professor of Systematic and Contextual Theology at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in Wake Forest, N.C., where he leads the Kingdom Diversity Initiative.
24 HOUR
GIVING CHALLENGE CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
JOIN US!
Tuesday, March 9, 2021
$50,000
Our goal is to raise to go towards campus beautification, enhanced security and continued technology improvements.
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CHARLOTTE CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
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SCRAPBOOK
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Grade 5 Lung Model Project
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Faculty with Doctorate Degrees
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First Day of School
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Middle School Nativity
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Neon Spirit Day
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Grade 3 Wax Museum
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Back-to-School Kick Off
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Back-to-School Kick Off
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Upper School Play,
Murder at the Chili Cook-Off
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10. Grade 6 Genesis Concert 11. Honoring Five Year Employees 12. Lower School Gingerbread Houses 13. Upper School Survivor Day 14. JK Nativity 15. Upper School Bible Verse Canvas 16. Seventh Grader Katie Joe Earns
Scholastic Art Gold Key
17. Young Alumni Upper School Crawl 18. Middle School Service Project
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2020-21 ISSUE 1 n
7301 Sardis Road Charlotte, NC 28270 (704) 366-5657 Fax: (704) 366-5678
www.charlottechristian.com
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