Coram Deo Academy
Spring 2013, Vol. 1, issue 3
Cognitio
“ The process of getting to know something or someone�
Welcome
Coram Deo Academy
Welcome to the third of three annual editions of Cognitio. Each seasonal edition will feature additional members of our excellent faculty and student leaders. Over the next few years we will introduce you to all the CDA teachers and several of our student leaders. The student leaders represented in Cognitio are elected by their peers and are either House Presidents or Senior Class Officers. A classical Christian Education utilizes the Trivium of Grammar, Logic and Rhetoric to provide students with the tools of lifelong learning and instill in them a love of wisdom. The reason this type of education is so effective is that these three tools also cooperate with the God-authored design of the mind and are suited to support each level of a child’s formative academic years. The first tool, Grammar, is the learning of people, places and things. This naturally appeals to young children who eagerly look for these in their Bible, phonics, math, history and language lessons. The second tool, Logic, is the understanding of the rules that govern those things previously learned. Middle-school students are typically attracted to this style as they learn to associate things and connect ideas in their classes. Rhetoric is the art of persuasion. High school students easily learn to apply sophisticated reasoning and strive for eloquence in their studies and in the totality of their lives.
Bill Rector
Polly Dwyer
Charlotte Cambell
Angela Bell
Ellen Perry
Laura Neibert
Headmaster
Administrative Assistant for Grammar School FM Admissions Coordinator
Campus Administrator
Administrative Assistant for Logic and High School Registrar
Grammar School Director
Administrative Assistant for Logic and High School
Kathy Schaefer
Testing and Guidance Coordinator
Table of Content s page 3-4
Letters from the Directors
page 5
Grammar School Instructor- Kimbra Moer
page 6
Logic School Instructor- Alice McDaniel
page 7-8
High School Instructor- Jonathan Jordan
page 9
Student Leader- Adrianna Drake
page 10
Student Leader- Claire Maxam
page 11
Student Leader- Jordan O’hara
page 12
Mission Statement
Letters from the Directors Grammar School
by Charlotte Campbell
Spring and Summer offers children the simple pleasures that come with long days full of sunshine and plenty of fun activities to occupy them. Listed here are a few idea prompts to keep young minds stimulated and engaged in the pursuit of learning more about God’s wonderful world. Literature in Rhyme Time Through activities, games, and crafts have children explore rhyming literature including Mother Goose and Dr. Seuss. Science/Math in Animal Studies Students learn about pet care and safety, wildlife reserves, farm animals, and zoos. Introduce young scientists to many areas of the animal kingdom both domestic and wild. History in America Hundreds of years ago buffalo roamed freely on the Plains of North America where untold numbers of Native Americans lived and hunted. Students spend this week studying the customs and traditions, homes, food, and language of early American Indians. Science/Math in Outer Space Amateur astronauts take a tour of the solar system using integrated and out-of-this-world activities. History in Time Each day the students travel back in time to discover how people lived, worked, and played during a specific time period. Inventions, scientists and artists of the time period will be introduced. Time travelers will explore ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome, medieval Europe, and early American history. Literature in Writing Students discover the joy of reading, writing, and speaking using the first exercise of the progymnasmata (progym-nas’-ma-ta from Gk. pro “before” and gymnasmata “exercises”). The students read an Aesop’s fable or Tall Tale and rewrite the story by amplifying or abbreviating the text to fit their own style of writing. History in the United States Kindergarten students take a “car trip’ across the United States on a map visiting national monuments, state parks, and tourist attractions. The children begin their journey traveling north, south, east and west across America discovering interesting people and places along the way. Literature in Psalms and Proverbs Students are introduced to variety of literature and poems presented in Scripture. Crafts, games, storytelling and creative writing will be a part of their study. Science/Math in Woodworking Introducing woodworking provides students with a hands-on experience measuring, cutting and assembling projects.
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Logic School
by Polly Dwyer
Now is a wonderful time in which God allows us to see the growth occurring within nature. Just like nature, our middle level kids need nutrients. Fifth grade has been working on the seven virtues. Sixth grade has been learning the Fruits of the Spirit. Seventh grade recently took a look at the Ten Commandments and have discussed the theological ramifications of the Enlightenment Period. Eighth grade has studied the Old Testament. Throughout it all, the students are learning that God is in control. He is merciful and just. Middle level kids live a life that is vivacious and fast. They seek to control yet they desire “freedom.” They love, laugh and talk freely. They hurt and struggle as well. The best approach to teaching this fast-paced social group is to create a habit within them of studying the Word of God when they are young. Plan a time each day this summer for Bible reading, discussion and prayer. Talk to them about feelings, knowing that while it is true to them for the moment, it may not be true to the situation. Give them a listening ear and steady, purposeful, guidance so they may grow in grace towards one another and in faith in our Lord and Savior, who conquers all.
High School
by Polly Dwyer
As we near graduation and the end of the year, this is always a time of awards and accolades. What a pleasant time in life when those accolades come in large number and with much sincerity! Some rewards are public and some are private through the many compliments and kind words said to deserving, maturing, teens. Rejoice in the season! But hearken back with thankfulness to the days of the Grammar and Logic level teachers, coaches and many life lessons taught by parents that created this loving and thankful person who now reaps the rewards. In all, give thanks to the Father who has blessed our high school students greatly with the talents He deemed appropriate for each. In 1 Corinthians 1:4-5, it says, “I always thank God for you because of His grace given you in Christ Jesus. For in Him you have been enriched in every way--in all your speaking and in all your knowledge-even as your testimony about Christ was confirmed among you...” ...Through all, give thanks!
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Kimbra Moer Grammar School Music
My name is Kimbra Moer and I teach K-4 Music at CDA. I am married to the love of my life, Gary Moer, who runs his own Commercial Landscape Management company. I have three beautiful blessings, Benjamin, Zachary, and Hannah Grace! Benjamin is a CDA graduate and will graduate from the United States Merchant Marine Academy in June. Zachary is also a graduate of CDA and is a 6’10” basketball playing freshman at the United States Air Force Academy. Our lovely Hannah Grace is a freshman at CDA and plays tennis and piano. We attend Bridge Way Church. I graduated from UNT with a degree in Music Education with a concentration in voice and a secondary in piano. I taught 8 years in public schools where I was honored as Teacher of the Year before retiring to stay home with my children. In addition to teaching, I love writing music and leading worship for churches, ladies’ and marriage retreats, and Ziglar Women Conferences. Musical Theater is also something I love to do. A few of my favorite parts I have played are Maria in The Sound of Music, Eliza in My Fair Lady, Kate in Kiss Me Kate, and Robin in Godspell. My family and friends call me the “yard sale queen” since I love treasure hunting and have furnished and decorated my house with garage sale finds. I love old dishes and pink depression glass and would describe my decorating style as farm house chic. The most valuable life lesson I have learned is that no matter what trial we may face, God always takes care of us and causes all things to work together for our good. My favorite quote is “Faith is the bird that sings while the dawn is still dark”. The motto I love most is “Worry is calculating a problem leaving God out”. My favorite attribute of God is His unconditional love. There is nothing we can do to make God love us any less. The best advice I can give to my students is to trust in The Lord with all of your heart and lean not unto your own understanding. In all of your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your path straight! I am so blessed to have taught at CDA for the last 10 years. I truly believe that I have the honor of working with the best students and parents in the world!
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Alice McDaniel Logic School Speech
Alice McDaniel combines her knowledge and skills to teach a variety of classes at CDA, including: Art and Music Appreciation, Speech, World History, Great Books Discussion, and Architecture. Mrs. McDaniel loves hosting people in her home, whether it is for a meal, a party, or a house guest that may be visiting for days.
My husband and I decided to homeschool our children even before the Lord blessed us with them. I loved every minute of learning with my children. We did many fun activities, and they learned quickly. When they were still young, I helped to start homeschool “Enrichment Classes.” I taught art-related classes there and then took over the leadership after the first year. The classes grew quickly and filled our space even overflowing into new groups. I helped some moms begin the Carrollton enrichment classes, which are still going strong. I also assisted the women who started the Grapevine classes – which then grew into Faith Christian School. While still coordinating the Enrichment Classes in Bartonville, I was asked to write a book to help new groups put together similar classes throughout the country. Ninety-nine books were sold and approximately fifty or so new “Enrichment Classes” formed. In the spring of 1999, while in my duties at the helm of the Enrichment Classes, I heard about a new school forming in Flower Mound. It also was organized to help homeschooling families. I attended an informational meeting so I would know how to talk about it with my constituents. Little did I know that I would be hooked! The ideas that Rodney and Robi Marshall presented that night sounded like just what I wanted for my own children. So I signed up my son, who was going into 8th grade when Flower Mound Christian School (now CDA) began. My daughter was only a 5th grader, and the school didn’t offer classes for her age. The next year, however, she was able to attend, and I began teaching. The story of how I was hired is interesting. I was not looking for a job. I simply invited the Marshall family over for dinner one night after the school began. While in our dining room, Mr. Marshall, looking at the artwork on the walls, asked if I wanted to teach at the school the next year. That artwork was all the resume I ever needed to show.
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Jonat han Jordan High School Apologetics, History, Greek Passion for God, dedication to CDA students, and a oneof-a-kind personality make Mr. Jordan a teacher that most students and teachers never forget. Mr. Jordan uses his creative methods to teach Apologetics 12, History 8, and Greek. He currently attends Reformed Theological Seminary and plans to graduate with an M.A. in New Testament. Mr. Jordan also put together the Coram Deo Journal of Theology, a collection of student, faculty and alumni reflections on theological aspects of all areas of life. The first issue was released during the third quarter. Read more about this remarkable teacher and his great sense of humor in the interview below. Introduce us to your family. I’ve been married to my wife Vivien for almost five years. She teaches elementary art in Mesquite, and designs invitations and other paper goods. Our first child is due in August and we are beyond thrilled. We have a dog, Hoosier, who turns 8 this year. He mainly licks himself and keeps intruders away. We live in Northwest Dallas and love the city of Dallas. Share with us some of your accomplishments. I married up. What interests do you have outside of school? Travel, trying new places to eat, and reading are among my greatest joys. I will also never pass up an impromptu game of Ultimate Frisbee. What’s your favorite meal? Breakfast: The Breakfast Hash, Oddfellows in the Bishop Arts District of Oak Cliff Lunch: Tacos, Fuel City Tacos in Dallas Dinner: Lobster Ravioli, Angelo’s in Lakewood Coffee: Iced Americano, Common Ground in Waco Dessert: Doughnuts, see my ratings here: http://jonjordan.com/dough 7
Besides the Bible, what was the last book you read? Testimony of the Beloved Disciple: The Narrative, History, and Theology in the Gospel of John, Richard Bauckham If you were to give one piece of advice to CDA students, what would it be? Stay. Teaching seniors means that I am able to see Coram Deo’s finished product and hear back from alumni who are always thankful for the hard work they endured during their time here. Do you have a life motto? Carpe Doughnut. Do you have a favorite quote? “We cannot worship the suffering God today and ignore him tomorrow. We cannot eat and drink the body and blood of the passionate and compassionate God today, and then refuse to live passionately and compassionately tomorrow. If we say or sing, as we so often do, ‘Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit’, we thereby commit ourselves, in love, to the work of making his love known to the world that still stands so sorely in need of it.This is not the god the world wants. This is the God the world needs.” N.T. Wright “That our God is to be found in the belly of Mary is surely sufficient to make you think twice that you know what you say when you say ‘God’” Stanley Hauerwas If you were stranded on a deserted island and you only were able to have your Bible and one other item, what would you choose? Water filter pump. I can get very thirsty. Also if I were to find coffee beans on the island, I would want to used filtered water when I brew. One disclaimer: with my Bible I would bring a collection of the writings of the Apostolic Fathers, and a Book of Common Prayer. That way in my reading I can make sure that while I am presumed alone on this island, I won’t be approaching the Scriptures as an isolated person but rather as part of the great historic and global church. What is your favorite attribute of God? His unique combination of transcendence and imminence. He is far greater and “other” than us; he has also made himself very near and “same” in the incarnation. 8
Adrianna Drake
President: House of Homer
Horseback riding, horse training, reading, drawing and painting, and mechanical design are all hobbies of this year’s House of Homer president Adrianna Drake. Adrianna’s accomplishments and success during her academic career at CDA will be a certain asset as she considers pursuing veterinary medicine and biomedical technology/engineering in college.
To learn more about Adrianna, read her interview below: Introduce us to your family. My mother is Dr. Michelle A. Emick. She owns her own practice and specializes in neuropsychology, psychopharmacology, and medical psychology. My father is Jerry E. Drake, Jr. He is an attorney for the City of Denton and specializes in litigation. Share some of your accomplishments and accolades. 2012-2013 2010-Present
President House of Homer United States Equestrian Federation High School Varsity Athlete
2009-2010
Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas Equestrian Team
2009-2010
National Leadership and Service Award, The United States Achievement Academy
2009
Girl Scout Silver Award
2008-2009
All-American Scholar Award, The United States Achievement Academy
2008-2009
National Science Merit Award, The United States Achievement Academy
2008-2009
Who’s Who in Science, The United States Achievement Academy
What was the “secret” to success at CDA? Never slack off! While it may work in the short term, at some point it will come back to bite you. 9
enrolled since 2008
What does “ethical servant leadership” mean to you? I embrace the principals of ethical stewardship/leadership listed below. •All human life has value; •Each individual has unique talents to be developed; •The community profits from its diversity; •All experience is a learning opportunity; •Learning is a life-long process; •All people are stewards of the social and natural environments; •Virtue is necessary for good citizenship; and •All people and their religious traditions should be respected. What kinds of pets do you have? I have three dogs: a German shepherd mix named Halstead, a Rhodesian ridgeback named Hunter, and an Anatolian/lab mix named Tessa. I have three cats: a calico named Ivana, a Siamese mix named Anjanka, and a very round gray tabby named Scarlett. I also have a yellow-headed Amazon parrot named Owl (I thought she was an owl when I was little). What bible verse is foundational in your life? “Do not let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12
Claire Maxam President: House of Wallace
The president of the House of Wallace, Claire Maxam, describes ethical servant leadership as, “leading in either school, church, or the community as a servant. You give your service to other people and humble yourself to help them with whatever they need.” She lives out this attitude in her leadership roles at CDA. Claire resides with her parents, Ron and Chris, and her little sister, Lauren. Because she works hard in her academic studies, Claire receives Cum Laude honors. Her volleyball team went to state this year, and she also went to state in speech and debate to compete in Duet competition.
enrolled since 2008
Read Claire’s answers below, to learn more about her life…
What was the “secret” to success at CDA? Don’t put off your work. Homework can be a grade that will help you make up those couple of points that you missed on a test. And always study regardless of how dumb you think it might be. It can save your test grades. What are your hobbies? I love to play volleyball with friends, going for runs when it’s cold, shopping and window shopping, and rock climbing. What’s your favorite meal? All kinds of pasta are my favorite. I love comfort food! If you could have any pet in the world, what would you like to try? If I could have any pet in the world I would want a polar bear, because my name is Claire and it rhymes with Bear. It could potentially kill me is the only problem! What bible verse is foundational in your life? “I have engraved you on the palms of my hands, your walls are ever before me.” Isaiah 49:16
Jordan O’hara
Senior Class Treasurer
“Has this world been so kind to you that you should leave with regret? There are better things ahead than any we leave behind.” -C. S. Lewis This thought-provoking quote is a favorite for Senior Class Treasurer Jordan O’Hara. Jordan’s accomplishments and leadership at CDA have been a great example for his classmates. Jordan’s father Michael works as the CIO for A. H. Belo Corporation. His mother is a homemaker who home-schooled all four of her children through grade school. Jordan’s parents were born in Los Angeles, California. They moved to Texas in 2007. His older brother, Justin, is twenty-two old and is a junior at Tarleton State University in Stephenville, Texas. His brother, Kyle, is twenty years old and is currently enrolled in a computer animation program. His younger sibling, Cameron, is fifteen years old and a sophomore at CDA.
enrolled since 2009
After graduation Jordan plans to major in Business Administration at John Brown University in Arkansas.
Learn a little more about Jordan from his interview below: Tell us about some of your accomplishments and accolades. I received Magna Cum Laude in 9th grade, Cum Laude in 10th grade, Magna Cum Laude in 11th grade, and currently have Cum Laude. I also received Honorable Mention for a Regional One Act Play at TAPPS. Are there committees you serve on at school, church or in the community? I handled the finances for dances and other high school events. I am also Vice-President of the House of Homer. What does “ethical servant leadership” mean to you? It means serving others for the purpose of bringing glory to God. What is the “secret” to success at CDA? The “secret” to CDA is hard work and putting your best effort into all that you do. 11
What bible verses are foundational in your life? “Teacher, which is the great commandment in the Law?” And He said to him, “You Shall Love The Lord Your God With All Your Heart, And With All Your Soul, And With All Your Mind.” This is the great and foremost commandment. The second is like it, “You Shall Love Your Neighbor As Yourself.” Matthew 22:36-39 Describe a favorite moment in your life? Or one you think will come? A favorite moment in my life will be walking on stage and receiving my diploma at graduation. Do you have or did you ever have a nickname? My nickname for the first few weeks of 9th grade was Jorge because Aubrey Dwyer believed that was my name. A few other students came to believe that Jorge was my name until I told them my real name is Jordan. I’m still sometimes referred to as Jorge and I blame Aubrey!
Our Mission
is to train ethical servant leaders and wise thinkers who will shape culture for the glory of God.
Christian CDA seeks to nurture children in an atmosphere consistent with historic Christian belief through a faithful and committed faculty while restoring the biblical priority of the family. Classical CDA educates youth in a historic Christian worldview through a rigorous Trivium-based curriculum. Knowledge, understanding, and wisdom of each subject are acquired with increasing sophistication as age, grade level and ability rise. Collaborative CDA is a genuine school-home collaboration, where students receive professional instruction on campus two to three days per week and work at home under the tutelage of their parents for the balance of the week allowing the family to be the primary influence on the child’s life.
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