GACS Today Magazine

greater atlanta christian school

today WE HELP STUDENTS DISCOVER THEIR LIFE CALLING. WE HELP STUDENTS THRIVE, NOT JUST SURVIVE. WE HELP STUDENTS FEEL SAFE TO TRY NEW THINGS. WE HELP STUDENTS STRENGTHEN THEIR STRENGTHS. WE HELP STUDENTS DREAM, NOT SETTLE. WE HELP STUDENTS BE WHO GOD INTENDS THEM TO BE.

THIS IS GAC ELECTION THE WONDER FEVER YEARS 12 10 BRADFORD HOMECOMING CENTER 30 28 CONDITIONING FALL TRIPS VALUE 30 20 ANNUAL ALUMNI REPORT NEWS

26 63

winter 2014

Greater Atlanta Christian School is thrilled to announce we have been recognized as an Apple Distinguished School for 2013-2015. For 5 years in a row, GAC has been honored with this designation, signifying our successes in enhanced education opportunities, innovative learning, stellar leadership and overall educational excellence.

A school nominated by Apple as a Distinguished School must, among other things, demonstrate: Best practice qualities of a 21st century learning environment; Engaging teaching and learning methods that capitalize on the qualities of today’s students who are mobile, collaborative and creative; A systematic approach and ongoing process for evaluation and assessment of results for education improvement and sustainability.

Get ready for Summer Camp at GAC!

Weekly camps available for 3 year olds through 12th grade, May 27-August 1 Check it out at www.greateratlantachrisitan.org.

contents

VOLUME 14 WINTER 2014 NUMBER 1

8 6 28 63 2

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

4 WHERE EVERYBODY KNOWS YOUR NAME 14 THE FACES OF GAC 14 16 TEACHERS IN DEMAND 18 LET'S LIGHT THE NIGHT 20 WHAT IS YOUR LIFE CALLING? 32 ANNUAL REPORT 49 63 ALUMNI NEWS

FRONT COVER

GAC never stands still. Our programs are designed to advance our students in learning, in faith, in character, and in the pure joy of life in God. This is GAC.

CO-EDITORS

Jill Morris and Jamie Dalton

ADMINISTRATIVE CONTRIBUTORS

Dr. David Fincher, Rhonda Hawkins, Jill Morris, Dr. Misty Overman, Katherine White

ADDITIONAL CONTRIBUTORS

Ryan Chamblee, Jamie Dalton, Tammy Hughes, Lauren Roberts, Ronnalee Strickland

GRAPHIC DESIGN

Fritz Miller and Danny Flanagan for Fritz Miller Studios, Inc.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

April Beasley, Gwinnett Daily Post, Bill Kallenberg, Walter Kirk, Mario Lozano, Jessica Ly, Glenn Martin, Lauren Roberts, Gordon Trice

PRINTING

Data Supplies, Inc. GACS Today is published semiannually in winter and summer by the Office of Community Relations at Greater Atlanta Christian School.

MAILING ADDRESS

1575 Indian Trail Road Norcross, Georgia 30093-2614 WEBSITE

www.greateratlantachristian.org Greater Atlanta Christian School practices a non-discriminatory policy of admissions.

gacs today | winter 2014

1

letter from the president

This is GAC.

GAC never stands still.

GAC is rooted in God's excellence.

GAC celebrates diversity.

GAC strengthens students' strengths.

2

T

hese are comments gathered directly from parents, students, and faculty who were interviewed by a research firm that we recently partnered with to study the unique dimensions of GAC. Their findings and data have been most complimentary, yet nothing says it quite like the often repeated affirming words from our community.

I like that first line about “never standing still.” In this issue of GACS Today, you’ll find that unique aspect of Greater Atlanta Christian in action today…and recalibrating for the future. There are new programs you'll discover that have been designed to advance GAC students in learning, in faith, in their character, and in just the pure joy of life in God. You’ll see some exciting new dreams of a completely new Elementary playground and an all new concept for our Village and Elementary — an Environmental Learning Center (page 8). This future-focused concept will integrate science, real world experimentation, hands-on learning, and the rising sustainability issues surrounding food and water. Look further, and you’ll discover that GAC Junior High students are getting creative with their learning with the well-received PLUS1 curriculum (page 12). I’m particularly thrilled about the well-executed Life Calling Leadership Program for kids in K3-12 where students are learning how to be leaders (page 20). One of GAC’s shining stars for students with

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learning differences, the 3-year-old Arrowsmith Program, has just been evaluated — and is making life changing differences for GAC kids (page 6). And when it comes to embracing the fullness of diversity in Christ, GAC is considered by many to be “best in class.” But you may not know that it’s not new: GAC has celebrated Christian diversity even from the very beginning (page 14).

Yes, this is GAC: Always moving forward for our kids and amazing opportunities, yet simultaneously incredibly stable with a firm foundation in leadership. For example, did you know GAC has only had two Board of Trustees Chairs in nearly 50 years? In education, that's almost unheard of. Our superb boards have and will continue to guide our school with a vision of incredible – never average – education focused on the hearts and minds of our children (page 34).

Hope you enjoy the pages of GACS Today. Join us as we teach, dream and create together in this place. This is GAC.

DR. DAVID FINCHER, PRESIDENT

CONNECT! Greater Atlanta Christian School Alumni The Spartan Store @ Greater Atlanta Christian School

Greater Atlanta Christian School

Greater Atlanta Christian School gacspartans

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GAC

Greater Atlanta Christian School Alumni

gacspartanstore @AlumniGACS

gacspartans gacspartanstore @GACSpartanstore

@GACSpartans @gacsREDZONE

GACSSpartans

www.greateratlantachristian.org

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Knows Where Everybody

Your Name Jill Morris, Director of Community Relations

“Sometimes you want to go Where everybody knows your name, and they’re always glad you came.”

T

he Early Childhood Village is a place where you can belong, where “everybody knows your name” and “they’re always glad you came.” It is a place of learning, a place of security, a place of growth, and an environment that nurtures our littlest Spartans and their families.

In 2012, the Village had a 98% retention rate – meaning that 98% of students re-enrolled for the next school year.

Once a student and his or her family become a part of the Village, they keep coming back!

This trend is often attributed to the presence of Debbie Tisher – AKA the Administrative Assistant, the boo-boo healer, the gatekeeper, the tour guide, the tooth-puller, the counselor, the party planner, the sanitizer, etc. There is certainly not a one-size-fits-all attitude in the Village; Mrs. Tisher knows every child, every family, every teacher, and every personality.

Mrs. Tisher consistently works to make the Village a home away from home for students as well as parents. She takes home the extra just-in-case uniforms to make sure they’re washed and ironed and always makes sure she is fully stocked with Band-Aids of all sizes. She knows which child

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is going camping with his or her family over the weekend and makes sure to ask how it went on Monday morning, when the family member of a child is not feeling well, or if a student requires a particular stuffed animal for nap time.

“When you find a place where strong relationships are formed and you feel ‘known,’ you just want to be a part of the energy. You want to be connected. We are a family here,” says Mrs. Tisher. “We share life together. I know that being part of a child’s day is important to parents. I try to send them photos or short videos of their kids, so they don’t miss out.”

Students in the Village have fun – always. Whether it’s dressing up like Disney princesses and heroes, talking like a pirate for a day, taking hayrides, or visiting fire stations, there’s always time to have a community event. Each year you can see Debbie as Snow White alongside Dr. Brad Schultz, the Elementary Assistant Principal, also known as “Prince Charming.” These early years in a child’s life offer up many memorable moments.

During her 19 years at GAC, Mrs. Tisher has been dedicated to helping make the Christmas Atlanta Inner-City Ministries toy drive a success. “School is about learning and growing up, but our kids also need to learn about the importance of giving. In a world where we have so much and want for very little, it’s good for our kids to give and be aware of others. Kids and parents alike get excited about seeing our donation boxes overflow each year,” says Mrs. Tisher.

The Village is definitely a place where everyone knows your name, and Mrs. Tisher is always glad you came. “Debbie is a care-giver,” shares Dr. Brad Schultz. “What better place is there to use one’s incredible gifts?”

photographed by Gordon Trice

Did you know?

Parents in the Village are historically the first group to be 100% All In for the Annual Fund

Parents in the Village always volunteer for school events

Parents in the Village get together outside of school because they quickly become a family

Parents in the Village (and Village graduates) oftentimes come back to visit with Mrs. Tisher and the Village – the place where their children were first loved

“I know that my daughter isn’t the only student in the Village, but Mrs. Tisher and the teachers make me feel like she’s the most important person in the world.” – Early Childhood Village Parent

Sometimes you want to go Where everybody knows your name, and they’re always glad you came.

photographed by Name Here

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Br in Training: Students Hard Work Pays Off Rhonda Hawkins, Elementary Principal & Director of Academic Support

GAC continues to be a school that not only helps students get into top colleges and universities, but also helps students discover their life calling through top academics, guidance, leadership courses and mentoring.

For many students, some early learning hurdles prevent them from discovering their God-given talents. Three years ago, GAC agreed to be part of a pilot program called the Arrowsmith Program that provides special training and facilitating of brain exercises to build new synapses and pathways that help students overcome learning differences.

The brain is the most complicated, robust organ in the human body. Research in neuroscience is leading to new insights into the ways the brain changes in response to experience. The brain’s function is not static, but rather is dynamic, experiencing countless changes throughout a person’s lifetime.

The Arrowsmith Program is based on two lines of research.

One body of research established that different brain areas working together are responsible for complex mental activities such as reading and writing. A weakness in one area can affect a number of different learning processes. The other line of research investigated the principles of neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to physically change in response to stimulus and activity. Through brain training, new neuron and synaptic interconnections are developed. Students are able to become more efficient and successful learners.

Students in the Arrowsmith Program are typically of average to above-average intelligence but are experiencing challenges in school that may include difficulties with aca-

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demic subjects, memory, reasoning, dyslexia, expressive or receptive language, or A.D.D. The Arrowsmith Program is individually designed for the needs of each student.

Cognitive exercises that are the foundation of the Arrowsmith Program are seen as a mental workout for the brain. The goal of the Arrowsmith Program is to strengthen the learning capacities of its students. Many individuals consciously engage in mentally stimulating activities, such as playing chess or doing crosswords, to maintain mental sharpness. The Arrowsmith Program relies on the same general principles. Under-functioning areas are treated like weak muscles and are intensely stimulated through cognitive exercises to produce a strengthened learner.

GAC is currently serving 26 students in the Arrowsmith Program. If you are interested in learning more about the Arrowsmith Program, visit www.arrowsmithschool.org or contact Rhonda Hawkins, Elementary Principal and Director of Academic Support.

“My child’s confidence in his abilities as a student and a learner has grown exponentially.”

– GAC Parent photographed by Gordon Trice

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ND

ANNUAL

GRANDPARENTS’ DAY

Our first fall day to welcome GAC grandparents to campus was a big success!

804

GRANDPARENTS

"It is so much fun having my grandparents come see my classroom and meet my friends." – GAC 3rd grader

"My grandparents have been coming to this event since I was in K5. Even though I've grown up and am in Senior High, they still come and share this experience with me each year. – GAC 10th grader photographed by Mario Lozano and Glenn Martin

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“Learning environments designed for the simple transfer of knowledge from a teacher to passive students will be totally insufficient for the very new needs of the 21st century.”

– Christian Kuhn, Dorian Peters (2011)

NEW GAC

A new outdoor Environmental Learning Center will allow us to integrate science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) with real world experimentation and hands-on learning. If funding allows, this will include a greenhouse with a teaching garden, turtle pond, chicken coop, and an area to focus on sustainable practices such as composting.

If you would like to help this dream come to life, please contact Katherine White at 770-243-2206 in the Development Office.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS

Our young students learn by doing, learn by playing, and learn by touch in addition to the traditional classroom setting. We want to give them a redesigned outdoor space to facilitate all types of learning and growing.

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Preliminary designs by Miracle Recreation and Hartley Botanic.

“Our current playground is very crowded. Sometimes kids just sit and read a book because they can’t all fit. No one will have to do that anymore with the new playground. All of us will be able to play together.”

– Natalia Alvear, 3rd grade

Outdoor and indoor learning environments collectively support child development. We want to develop programs that expand student interest, confidence and retention in the areas of science, technology, engineering, and math. GAC will be able to integrate our Elementary science curriculum with real world experimentation and hands on learning.

THE NEW ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING CENTER:

Expanded teaching garden Outdoor fish hatchery

“I can’t wait to hold a baby chicken and see it grow.” – Elise Lovell, 3rd grade

Student-directed greenhouse Composting Chicken coop Turtle pond Hydroponics

photographed by Mario Lozano

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I

f I told you I had an investment for you that could potentially yield eternal, immeasurable gains in 10, 20, or 50 years – you would most certainly invest.

The potential return on your investment in a GAC education is eternal and immeasurable for students.

think that by the time my young children reach pre-adolescent years they will have been programmed by society to believe pre-adolescence is not a time of life in which they can thrive. So many believe survival is key – just muddle through those awkward years, then get out.

I have the pleasure of working with Junior High students each day. I love it. After proclaiming my love of teaching this “in between” age group, I often get responses like, “Oh, bless your heart.” For those of you who aren’t southerners, allow me to translate – “Oh, you poor thing!” or “Just how crazy are you?” Why does this misconception of junior high kids run rampant in adult circles? It bothers me to

Years of research in adolescent development has shown that the transformative years of Junior High are not only important, but have a direct impact on who we will be as adults. These are years of change – and change is scary! Too often, however, it turns into a time to duck and cover. The modus operandi of many is to decide what to avoid instead of discovering passions. GAC firmly believes Junior High is not a time to hide, but rather a time to explore and discover.

“I’m humbled by the privilege to share God’s message of grace and reconciliation with kids during one of the most tumultuous and dynamic stages of life.”

- Lori Reed, Junior High Bible Teacher 10

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photographed by Name Here

Each Junior High student learns they are uniquely created in God’s image in the spiritual formation curriculum. They learn that He has blessed them with certain gifts, talents and abilities that display His glory in our world. This teaching goes hand in hand with students learning what areas they excel in, what their passions are, and what makes them tick.

Through in-depth study of scripture, “real-world” assessments, student-planned and student-led chapel, service and mission opportunities, and authentic connection with Junior High faculty members our 6th – 8th graders discover their part in God’s great story.

“Kyle was a shy 7th grader who loved to play music. He took advantage of the opportunity to be a part of the JH Chapel Band.

Over the course of 7th and 8th grades he began to discover that his natural talent and love of music were things God has blessed him with. By the end of 8th grade, Kyle brought a group together and helped lead meaningful worship. Not only did Kyle discover more about himself, but he also led other band members to know and embrace who they each are in God.” – Ryan Chamblee, Junior High Bible Teacher

Mario Lozano

Ryan Chamblee, Junior High Bible Teacher

“My years in Junior High were the ones in which I grew the most.

Many things contributed to my growth, but the biggest impacts were my great teachers and the sense of freedom they gave me.

I learned to make good decisions with teachers’ guidance, helping me to become more mature. Each teacher truly became my friend and was there for me. Even though I’ve moved on to high school, I’m still close to several of the teachers I had in Junior High because they really helped me grow spiritually and helped me to realize that the decisions I make now will affect my life.”

– Kyle Dickson, GAC 9th Grade Student

photographed by Gordon Trice

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Dr. Misty Overman, Vice President of Learning Initiatives and Junior High Principal

LEARNING

Ask any child in elementary school what they want to be when they grow up; the standard responses are typically fireman, doctor, football player, dancer, baseball player, etc. But after the elementary years, responses start to vary. Engineer, veterinarian, computer programmer enter the picture. How is a kid supposed to know what to do? Enter exploratory programs and creative learning. This year, Junior High students enjoyed a new program, PLUS1. From programming to swimming, from forensics to art, students in grades 6-8 participated in classes they chose – classes they were interested in. Exploration is an important part of deciding what you want to be when you grow up. What better way to explore your interests than under the watchful eye of a teacher – one who shares your passion for the topic?

what are kids doing?

Conducting labs in chemistry classrooms using fume hoods to perform chemical detection of fingerprints and identifying unique patterns.

The junior high years may not always be easy for our pre- and early-teens, but by providing environments where they can fully invest themselves in something they find interesting and find out who they are becoming is invaluable. It provides them with a solid jumping off point to their high school years where they begin to put into place what they are learning about themselves.

Learning the art of improv, all the while honing communication and team building skills.

Constructing autonomous cars and drag racers with NXT LEGO Robotics sets.

“THIS is what education should look like all the time!

I want to be in these classes!” – GAC JH Parent

Fine tuning freestyle and breaststrokes, diving off the blocks and working on swimming endurance.

Leading peers in chapel.

Discussing heroes and heroines, good and bad.

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photographed by Mario Lozano

HUMAN ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY

WEB DESIGN FUNDAMENTALS

ORCHESTRA THEATRE DIRECTION PROGRAMMING FOR GAMES & SIMULATIONS

BAND ELECTIVES

FRENCH

JUNIOR HIGH &

SENIOR HIGH

HOOPS!

JOURNALISM

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

C H O I R

EUROPEAN HISTORY

ROBOTICS

TUTORING iSTUDIO

VIDEO PRODUCTION

SOCIOLOGY

BROADCAST JOURNALISM ACCOUNTING S T U DY A B R OA D

SPANISH

DIGITALES

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SCULPTURE

iLIFE SCRATCH COMPUTER CODING

3-D DESIGN I N T E R N AT I O N A L

WHO DUNNIT

IN THE DIGITAL AGE iWORK

STUDIES

BIOLOGY

COMMUNICATION

POTTERY

WORLD LITERATURE & COMPOSITION

EAT MY BUBBLES! LATIN

W E B D E S I G N FU N DA M E N TA L S

D A N C E

WORLD HISTORY

JUST

PHOTOGRAPHY

U.S. HISTORY

2-D DESIGN

EDUCATION

E C O N O M I C S

LITERACY SAT PREPARATION

PHYSICAL

S I M U L AT I O N S

FINANCIAL

AEROBICS

YEARBOOK

&

POLITICS

E U RO P E A N

DRAMA

GOVERNMENT

HISTORY

SOCIOLOGY

CREATIVE DESIGN

APP DEVELOPMENT

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The

Faces of

GAC Jill Morris, Director of Community Relations

F

rom its beginnings, Greater Atlanta Christian has been a school dedicated to integration and inclusion. In the late 1950’s when a group of individuals, including GAC’s founding president, Jesse Long, envisioned and planned for a private Christian school in Atlanta, an advertisement ran in the local Atlanta papers, clarifying GAC’s intended purpose “This announcement of a new private school is not to be confused, or associated, with current efforts in certain quarters to either avoid or effect the integration of the races. It is simply an effort to bring Christian education to this part of Georgia.”

Current Elementary Assistant Principal, Dr. Brad Schultz, was so fascinated by GAC’s bold beginnings, he was inspired to trace her intentional diversity timeline for his doctoral dissertation – GAC Diversity Initiative. After months of research, Dr. Schultz realized that his findings would reflect a blueprint for other private schools.

In the height of racial tension and the segregation of schools across the nation, Greater Atlanta Christian School made clear her intent of inclusion and integration.

Dr. Schultz with Village students

Timeline of GAC’s Diversity Initiative: 2001

2003

2005

2013

Board of Trustees Member Fernando Nasmyth voices the need for an Intentional Diversity Initiative

GAC initiates the Diversity Council

GAC hires a Latino Liaison, Rosa Vestal, to serve as an ambassador to Latino students and parents in understanding all aspects of GAC

GAC welcomes 15 international students from China

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2002

2004

2009

2013

Ken Robinson hired as GAC’s first Diversity Director

Goizueta Scholarship Fund started, benefiting Latino students who could not otherwise afford a private education

Charles Edwards hired as the GAC Director of Diversity

GAC partners with Three W International (a premier international student management company)

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After 10 years of intentionally attracting diversity, the racial demographics of GAC’s student body have changed.

<1%

3.7% 4.5%

6.6%

3%

3%

17%

African American Asian Caucasian

9% 84.6%

2000-2001 school year

Hispanic/Latino Multi-Racial

68%

2011-2012 school year

Today, GAC is blessed to have a student population that reflects the world around us. Our community has been made possible by the bold decision made many years ago in the midst of national segregation efforts.

Global Inclusion for 2013-14 It’s part of our mission: We desire our international students to experience school while living in Christ-centered homes with families who have values that echo GAC’s mission and who aspire to excellence.

GAC appeals to motivated and gifted international students:

For more than a decade, GAC has welcomed qualified international students to enroll when a family member also comes to the States. International students are provided student visas as well as different learning opportunities, and the GAC community is exposed to a worldview different than our own.

This school year, GAC entered into a partnership with an international student program management company (Three W International) that enabled our school to invite 15 Senior High Chinese students into family host homes.

In the last 10 years, the Asian private school population has grown in the U.S. to 37%. These students choose GAC because of our high academic standing and our depth of programs. They have set goals to attend top universities in the U.S., and GAC can prepare them well.

The GAC community is better, stronger because of our international students: As our international

(cheer with us at ballgames, participate in classroom discussions, share meals and cultural food preferences around the table, worship beside us in chapel), they impact us. We examine our own habits and tastes. We see things with new eyes and realize we are just one of many.

GAC becomes a global community:

We all learn to interact and compromise, accept one another, communicate more clearly and reflect on God’s intellect and imagination in creating us all different.

If you are interested in learning more about the international program or about becoming a GAC host family, contact Jill Morris: jmorris@greateratlantachristian.org or Margie Asef: masef@greateratlantachristian.org.

students become part of our community gacs today | winter 2014

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Teachers IN DEMAND GAC teachers are regularly invited to share their expertise concerning innovation in education. The following members of our faculty facilitated discussions around the country to encourage educators to think, collaborate, and change students’ lives.

Linda Byrd – Elementary Technology Instructional Specialist Formatio Conference – Nashville, TN

It is part of a teacher’s ministry to help students see how they fit uniquely into God’s story. Educators must practice narrative leadership by being daily examples of humility to their students. It is through our example that we can share God’s indescribable riches and the promise of Jesus.

Brian Dolinger – Senior High Freshmen Dean iSummit – Atlanta, GA

As students build apps, they must go through the design thinking cycle – what is needed, what works, what doesn’t, what should come next? Could Design Thinking stand on its own as a course in schools?

Matt Fincher – Senior High U.S. History, AP Government Teacher Georgia Independent School Association Conference – Atlanta, GA

Educators discussed the process of Paideia seminars in secondary social studies classrooms. These seminars are collaborative, intellectual dialogues about a particular text, facilitated with open-ended questions.

Katie Martin – Senior High U.S. History, Economics Teacher Council for Economic Education National Conference – Baltimore, MD

Are you ready to be an adult? In this life simulation seminar, participants discussed the benefits of a semester-long project that introduces seniors to various economic concepts they will face upon graduating such as expenses and budgeting.

Lori Reed – Junior High Bible Chair, 8th Grade Bible Teacher Formatio Conference – Nashville, TN

What are best contemporary practices in Christian pedagogy and are they offered in a platform for K-12 schools? Students should have ability to explore and collaborate regarding spiritual formation. Let’s bring practical applications to Junior High curriculum philosophy.

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photographed by Mario Lozano and Glenn Martin

“I’m thankful that Greater Atlanta Christian’s culture fosters continuous growth for faculty and staff, including encouraging graduate studies. GAC is unique in supporting advanced degrees because we believe that it’s not just our faculty and staff who benefit – our students benefit directly from our staff’s continuous growth and learning. Newly declared

Doctor Brad Schultz is one of GAC’s stars in my view, always dreaming of new ways for our Elementary school to leap forward for our kids.

Dr. Schultz took a different path to his recent doctoral dissertation, studying schools in a time of segregation and resistance to diversity. In particular, he focused on one school – GAC – that instead, sought to reflect the full body of believers. A telling look back that perhaps helps to explain GAC’s obvious commitment to Christian diversity today.”

– Dr. David Fincher, GAC President

Scott Harsh & Dr. Caleb Panter were recently featured in Indiana Wesleyan University’s High School Life Calling Institute magazine about the Life Calling program that has become a part of GAC’s core curriculum. The program leads students through strategic leadership initiatives to help them find out who they are and what God intends for them to be (see page 20 for more information).

Fostering teacher leadership through advanced training, workshops, and professional growth opportunities leads to a cultivation of learning that is contagious in other faculty members and students.

Characteristics of professional excellence:

{

> Reflect a Christ-like faith > Exhibit a passion for mission > Serve as an ambassador for GAC > Work in a collaborative manner > Be innovative > Provide exceptional service > Pursue professional growth gacs today | winter 2014

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ew 13. n a 0 ed in 2 c du tion o r i nt rad i t C GA mas t ris h C

The GAC campus never looked more festive as thousands of students, parents, staff, and community guests gathered on December 7 for the first lighting of the tree on the Campus Green. GAC choir members sang carols, ballerinas danced, drama members reenacted the Nativity scene, young Spartans roasted marshmallows, orchestra members played beautiful holiday tunes, LACE hosted a successful silent auction and PTO sponsored an ice skating rink in the quad. Comedian Tim Hawkins performed in Long Forum and families made memories in horse-drawn carriage rides.

Make plans to add this tradition to your familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s holiday calendar for Christmas 2014.

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photographed by Mario Lozano and Glenn Martin.

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WHAT IS YOUR

LIFE CALLING? Jill Morris, Director of Community Relations & Jamie Dalton, Communications & Project Coordinator

S

SE

•

CH

ST R E N GT H

FA I T H

FOUNDATIONAL VALUES

their true life calling. In 2010, GAC created a “blueprint” designed to intentionally guide students from 3 to 18 years old as they search for their life calling based on Indiana Wesleyan University’s Life Calling course. Why are they here? What will they become? What are they meant to do?

RV ICE

A

ccording to Mark Twain, “The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.” For the years that students are at GAC, we are helping them become 21st century leaders who will think critically, globally, and missionally by discovering

A R AC T E R

•

UNI DES

•P ASSI

Counselor Adam Paa leads open discussions about making the right decision, sexual purity, and drug prevention.

Young Spartans learn selfawareness, to take pride in themselves and learn to interact face-to-face.

Elementary students write, produce, and present morning announcements on camera.

Students learn to lead while they are young. Senior High students demonstrate teamwork and leadership during the Mud Run at the Spiritual Retreat.

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to build confidence in them to explore their own unique strengths and passions during this very formative time in their development.”

Focusing on age-appropriate foundational values, unique design, and personal leadership initiatives are keystones in our leadership through life calling curriculum.

ION

AC T

PE

N

GAC attracts applicants by showcasing our own students as they sit on Open House panels to answer questions concerning transitions, service, daily academic life, and extracurricular activities.

“For GAC, the Life Calling program is much more than an add on course. It is an essential part of a school-wide initiative preparing students for their next steps of college and the life they were me ant to lead,” shares Dr. Caleb Panter, coordinator of GAC's Life Calling leadership curriculum.

shaped by experiences inspired by vision motivated by mission committed to action

guided by faith courageous in character engaged in service empowered by strengths driven by passions

IO

• S N IO

EX

A GAC student is:

PERSONAL LEADERSHIP

MISS

QUE S IGN

RIEN ES C

Through strategic leadership and mentoring initiatives, we are seeing our students grow into incredible leaders as they pursue dreams through the Life Calling curriculum.

The Life Calling program began with 20 students and has now expanded into a core class at GAC with over 200 juniors enrolled. These students are “more confident in their identity, more aware of their purpose, and better equipped to make decisions about their future,” shares Senior High Principal Scott Harsh.

How do kids figure out their life calling?

From the time they begin at GAC in K3, we are helping them discover and learn to understand and appreciate their own uniqueness. Scott Harsh says, “By teaching our youngest Spartans with the Life Calling model, we hope

• • VI N SIO

Junior High students self-initiated a new program for 1st-5th graders called "Don't Sit, Get Fit." Rather than sitting and waiting for school to begin, students get to exercise to upbeat music and get their minds & bodies ready for the day.

Junior High students explore a variety of classes that appeal to their specific gifts and interests during PLUS1.

14 mission trips, 314 students, 42 faculty spend up to 6 weeks learning about the communities they will serve in on mission trips.

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101 2

SPARTAN

SPOTLIGHTS

AC A D E M I C S

Seniors Named National Merit Semifinalists Carter Clinebell Spencer Kemp

Seniors Named National Achievement Scholarship Winners Myles Ingram Alison Lee

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GAC juniors and seniors were inducted into the Greater Atlanta Christian School Chapter of the National Honor Society. This is a record number of students to be inducted into the NHS in one year.

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Seniors Named National Merit Commended Students Tiffany Chu Matthew Connel Elizabeth Harper Ben Hensley Preston Kemp Hannah Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Hara Andrew Scialabba Sam Weyen

8 photographed by Mario Lozano

We are raising more than test scores.

We’re developing successful stories.

SPARTAN

SPOTLIGHTS

AC A D E M I C S

GAC has many school level successes that make your child's experiences unique. Add up those experiences from Elementary to Junior High and Senior High and GAC is uniquely impressive.

Elementary IOWA Test of Basic Skills National School Norms GAC 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades are collectively in the top 5% of all schools nationally.

(3rd grade – top 5%, 4th grade – top 1%, 5th grade – top 1%)

Grade

2010-11

2011-12

2012-13

rd

GAC 3 grade

97 percentile

97 percentile

95th percentile

GAC 4th grade

99th percentile

99th percentile

99th percentile

GAC 5th grade

99th percentile

99th percentile

99th percentile

th

th

Junior High IOWA Test of Basic Skills National School Norms GAC 6th, 7th, and 8th grades are performing above predicted levels.

2012-2013 School Year

Reading Comprehension

Verbal

Math

th

GAC 6 Grade

93 percentile

99 percentile

99th percentile

GAC 7th Grade

96th percentile

99th percentile

98th percentile

GAC 8th Grade

94th percentile

96th percentile

97th percentile

rd

th

Junior High is more than just the years in between Elementary and Senior High. These formative years greatly impact the direction and success of students. The majority of the students who graduate at the top of their class started at GAC in Elementary and Junior High.

Starting Grade at GAC Class of 2013

Class of 2012

Class of 2011

Class of 2010

Class of 2009

Valedictorian

Steven Smith

8th grade

Co-Salutatorian

Andy Irwin

5th grade

Co-Salutatorian

Soyoung Kim

5th grade

Valedictorian

Andrew H. Kim

K5

Salutatorian

Tyler Sams

1st grade

Valedictorian

Sunny Patel

6th grade

Salutatorian

Melissa Puntkattalee

K4

Valedictorian

Wesley Pate

K5

Salutatorian

Trey Martin

6th grade

Valedictorian

Rishi Singhal

6th grade

Salutatorian

Andrew Caudill

4th grade gacs today | winter 2014

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GAC's 50-member Symphonic Band is performing a featured concert at the 64th Annual University of Georgia's JanFest, a high school band festival. Only six bands are invited to perform as a featured concert. GAC is honored to be selected as a top demonstration group.

BAND DANCE The GAC Dance Team won 1st place at the Georgia High School Dance Championship.

They received the prestigious Choreography Award and the Technique Award in the Performing Arts division. They also came home with a 3rd place overall in the Dance Team - Pom Division.

Congratulations to 5th graders for representing GAC at the Statewide Elementary Honors Chorus.

Ella Bugg, Laura Buice, Eva Chidi-Maha, Nicole Griffin, Ansley Hill and Mitsue Ostapiuk.

Drama Austin Crute (12th grade) was named Best Actor at the State AA One Act Play Contest for his role in "The Boys Next Door."

Choir 12 students from Junior High and Senior High participated in the District 13 Honor Chorus. It was a great honor to have this many students selected from GAC to participate in this prestigious group.

Dorey Casey (8th), Bailey Conn (8th), Hannah Daniel-Slack (8th), Senyal Das (8th), Allie Everett (12th), Sydney Finks (7th), Victoria Griffin (7th), Kayla Harris (8th), Lauren Hutson (8th), Ali Lee (12th), Lacey Shaffer (8th), John Shin (10th).

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students in 4th and 5th grades sing for the Promises Elementary Chorus. This is the largest number of GAC students to ever perform in Promises.

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photographed by Mario Lozano and Glenn Martin

The Marching Spartans have accepted an invitation to march in the 2015 London New Year’s Day Parade!

Congratulations to band members Sander Schierer (12th grade - tuba) and Tylor Lee (10th grade - clarinet) for being selected as members of the Really. This is an elite band comprised of the very best high school players from the greater Atlanta area. The AYWS is a program of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.

Kendellan Chapman (12th grade - flute) and Vivienne Emde (10th grade – bass clarinet) were selected as members of the elite Youth Bands of Atlanta ensemble.

Congratulations to the One Act Play cast of "The Boys Next Door" for being named Runner Up at the State AA One Act Play Contest.

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VOLLEYBALL 2012 Lady Spartans Volleyball Team Receives National Award for 2nd Straight Year The Lady Spartans received the National Academic Award by the American Volleyball Coaches Association (AVCA) for the second straight year. This award honors collegiate and high school volleyball teams that display excellence in the classroom during the school year. The team carried a cumulative GPA of 4.032.

“Excellence doesn’t just happen by accident, either on the court or in the classroom.

It takes consistent preparation, relentless effort, and determined leadership. A full year of academic achievement, by an entire team of individual students, is a remarkable achievement.” — AVCA Executive Director Kathy DeBoer

SPORTS

Brianna Cummings Basketball George Washington University Jack McLaughlin Baseball Presbyterian College Isaiah Wilkins Basketball University of Virginia Sydni Means Basketball Mercer University

ATHLETIC SIGNINGS 26

winter 2014 | gacs today

Grace DeBoer Softball North Greenville University photographed by Gwinnett Daily Post, Bill Kallenberg and Glenn Martin

Isaiah Wilkins

Basketball

SUPER 6 ATHLETES

Brianna Cummings

Basketball

The Varsity Spartans football team gave loyal fans an incredible season of football to enjoy.

REGULAR

SEASON

OVERALL

RECORD

9-1 10-2

FOOTBALL

Spartan football player, Micah Abernathy (11th grade), wowed the nation during regular season play as he was named USA Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s winner of the National Play of the Week.

The GAC Spartans had four sets of brothers playing on the Varsity football team this year (Standing brothers are all seniors while their kneeling brothers are all sophomores).

Rayshawn (12th) & Nicholas (10th) Bray

photographed by Name Here

Jonathan (12th) & Joshua (10th) Pickens

Alex (12th) & Aiden (10th) Jarrett

Mac (12th) & Liam (10th) Sullivan

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Homecoming 28

winter 2014 | gacs today

2013

It's more than an event. It's a reunion, a weekend of making new memories and remembering the past.

It's about engaging with friends and family in a common place with a common mission. It's about being thankful for each other and for GAC.

gacs today | winter 2014

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ity opportun ents the d u st e v a ng Shut-Dow ashington W 13 0 .: 2 e .C Th es in D new plac to explore y Museum S l tiona p • Interna Vernon ur • Mount Ghost To dria, VA o traffic! .n • Alexan t… n benefi w o d tu sh Another

This fall, students and teachers experienced history, science, and art on the road. By taking class trips early in the year, students build relationships with their classmates and teachers through culture and experiential learning. New learning environments not only create excitement, but also reenergizes students and makes learning stick.

5th Grade – Rock Eagle, GA 6th Grade – Chattanooga, TN 7th Grade – Washington, DC (AKA The Shutdown Special) 9th Grade - Charleston, SC 10th Grade - Williamsburg, VA 11th Grade - New York, NY 12th Grade - Orlando, FL *8th graders will travel to Savannah, GA in the spring

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winter 2014 | gacs today

PREPARATION MAKES CLASS TRIPS HAPPEN.

Class Trip C hecklist : Announ

ce itine raries e buses

Reserv

Book to urs Collect permiss ion slips Sign up for room s Create bus list s Plan wo rship Determ ine pare nt chap Recruit erones a nurse Organiz e medic al forms Plan for special dietary Create needs cell phon e lists Plan wit h facult y Write t hank yo u cards Send o ut pack ing lists Get firs t aid kit s ready gacs today | winter 2014

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ANNUAL R E P O RT

GAC NEVER STANDS STILL In January 2014, GAC upgraded its technology tools again by refreshing all student MacBook Airs and adding the OS X Mavericks. Students gain longer battery life, doubled storage and speed, and iBooks. MacBook Airs were added to Elementary Media Literacy Labs, all teachers were upgraded, and the Junior High Learning Labs received 50 iPad Minis. GAC is recognized around the country for its innovation in technology and yearly hosts hundreds of public and private school educators to observe technology being fully integrated in classroom environments.

20 1 2-201 3 GREATER ATLANTA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

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photographed by Gordon Trice

Dear Greater Atlanta Christian School Family, You have continued to faithfully support us year after year. As each of you realize, Greater Atlanta Christian School depends on the generosity of folks like you, Christian stewards who have a heart for the ministry of GAC. The following lists show the names of parents, grandparents, faculty, staff, alumni and friends who financially supported Greater Atlanta Christian School over the last fiscal year. GAC would not have reached her goals without your support.

We have prepared this Annual Report not only to thank you, but also for you to see that we are good stewards of your financial gifts. We rely every year on your generous charitable gifts. Thank you for being a champion of Greater Atlanta Christian School.

Blessings to each of you,

Katherine White Vice President of Development

∞

AMOUNTS REPORTED FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2013 INCOME Net Tuition and Fees

27,872,297

81%

*Contributions

2,985,852

9%

Auxiliary Services

2,789,591

8%

Investment Income

163,714

0%

Other Income

451,482

1%

$ 34,262,936

100%

Total Income

$

EXPENSES, CAPITAL OUTLAYS, AND RESERVES Teacher/Staff Salaries and Benefits $ 17,476,168 Curricular Programs & Materials 3,988,110 Financial Aid 766,921 Auxiliary Services 1,515,644 Plant Maintenance & Utilities 1,879,362 Interest 1,061,129 Depreciation & Amortization 3,715,981 General, Administrative, & Development 1,273,823 Other Expenses 349,906 Capital & Endowment Project Reserves 1,068,718 In-Year Construction/Capital Additions from Operations 1,167,174 Total Expenses, Capital Outlays, and Reserves $ 34,262,936

* Contributions are reported here on the cash basis. photographed by Name Here

gacs today | winter 2014

51% 12% 2% 4% 5% 3% 11% 4% 1% 3% 3% 100%

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G A C 2 0 1 2 -2 0 1 3 A N N UA L R E P O R T

Many are the plans in a man’s heart but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails. Prov. 19:21

QUIET, DYNAMIC STRENGTH: GAC TRUSTEES AND DIRECTORS

T

here are thousands of Christian and private schools across the U.S., and that’s good. Most have some form of Board of Directors or Trustees, too many with uneven results and mission confusion. Yet governance and planning ahead are places where Greater Atlanta Christian School sines brightly. The result of our Boards’ work is five decades of wisdom, energy, and solid continuity that keeps GAC – and me, and all of us – on mission and ever dreaming.

GAC Trustees and Directors are modest. They never desire their names up in lights or seek to be the center of attention. Times of transitions, however, give me the opportunity to brag about key leaders and introduce new ones.

Two GAC leaders are in the midst of transition with two new leaders emerging. GAC Foundation Chair, Billy Schroer, has been key in guiding the school’s endowment for 9 years now—and the GAC Foundation has grown in its support for our students and teachers by leaps and bounds during his tenure. Whether we are aware or not, the extended GAC family, from students to teachers, depends on the GAC Foundation. And we

are ever grateful. New GAC Foundation Chair, Russ Reynolds, will serve with energy and dreams. Founding Chair Billy Schroer charted a path for the future of GAC and his leadership will never be forgotten.

Though he has a year yet to serve, GAC Board of Trustees Chair Jim Combee, has announced 2014 will be his last as Chair. After 14 years, it’s difficult for me to imagine Jim not leading, advising, and dreaming right there with me. We all owe Jim and wife, Becky, more than we know. We give thanks for them. God has provided an incredible new Board of Trustees Chair in Fernando Nasmyth.

FERNANDO NASMYTH AND JIM COMBEE

The GAC Board of Trustees, the GAC Foundation, and the GAC Rwanda Board all serve our students, teachers, and mission every day. And they never forget The One who owns the school and Who it serves—and it’s not them.

Dr. David Fincher, , GAC President

RUSS REYNOLDS

Purpose Purpose of the GAC Board of Trustees

To keep the trust for God's school, chart its course, ensure fiduciary stewardship, and see that the institution has the resources it needs to fulfill and expand its mission.

Purpose of the GAC Foundation

To support the mission of GAC by financial governance of the school endowment for short- and longterm benefit of the school, faculty, students and total program.

Purpose of the Rwanda CASE Board of Directors

To carry out all functions related to launching and building a secondary school in Kigali, Rwanda that reflects the same standard of Christian education and academic excellence as GAC for the families and leaders of Rwanda and Central Africa, and build deep linkages between Atlanta and Rwanda's rising young leaders.

NEW MEMBERS OF THE GAC BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Jeff Foxworthy American comic, author, and TV personality Jeff & Gregg are parents of two GAC alumni – Jordan (GAC ’10) & Julianna (GAC ’13).

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Gary Long Chief Business Development Officer, Brightree LLC Gary (GAC ’76) & Theresa are parents of two GAC alumni – Ashton (Long) Goad (GAC ’05) & Addison (GAC ’13).

Josh Osborne SVP, Commercial Banking, KeyWorth Bank Josh & Kim (GAC '96) have two children at GAC – Paxton (3rd) & Lorelei (2nd).

Carrie Shumard Nurse, Retired Carrie & Bob (GAC ’87) have four children at GAC – Jake (12th), Drew (10th), Anna (7th), Kate (4th).

e

FERNANDO NASMYTH - CHAIR ELECT, GAC BOARD OF TRUSTEES

F

ernando Nasmyth has served on the GAC Board of Trustees since 1998, and as a Director of the GAC Foundation since 2004. Nasmyth and his wife, Donna, have volunteered with the school in a number of ways including their participation on student mission trips while their three children attended and graduated from GAC. In addition to his service at GAC, Nasmyth has an almost twenty year tenure of service as an Elder at North Atlanta Church of Christ. Nasmyth has a long track record of volunteering in roles with non-profit organizations, such as American Diabetes Association, Phoenix Alliance, The ScreamFree Institute, and Abilene Christian University, where he is Chair of the Visiting Committee for the Department of Conflict Resolution and Reconciliation.

Nasmyth has held many leadership positions over his 36-year career as an attorney and real estate investment and finance professional with Aetna Life & Casualty, GE Real Estate, GE Capital Investment Advisors, SSR Realty Advisors, and BlackRock Realty.

He is currently Vice President of Debt Financings at The Hanover Company, a national multi-family development company based in Houston.

Nasmyth earned a B.A. in Government at Cornell University and a J.D. at Cornell Law School. Also, he holds a Certificate in Conflict Resolution from Abilene Christian University.

Fernando and Donna are proud parents to Ibrahim (GAC ’98) and his wife Erin, Ayesha (GAC ’01), and Faith (GAC ’04) and her husband Joshua, and grandparents to Olivia and Audrey.

“I have been immeasurably blessed by my association with GAC and consider it a privilege to serve the GAC community as a Trustee and to support the efforts of the Administration, Faculty, Staff, and supporters to accomplish her mission.”

– Fernando Nasmyth

RUSS REYNOLDS - CHAIR, GAC FOUNDATION

R

uss Reynolds is Chief Executive Officer and a principal of Batteries Plus Bulbs, the largest U.S. battery and light bulb retailer. A graduate of Bethel University, Russ earned an MBA from University of Minnesota and the Leadership Development Program of the University of Australia in Melbourne. Russ is a member of several for-profit businesses, is a trustee at Northwestern College (MN),

and has served on the boards of several nonprofit organizations. Russ is also a member of the GAC Finance Committee and Development Committee.

Russ and his wife, Lisa, have four children – Nicole (GAC ’10), Kylie (12th), Matt (10th), and Ty (K5). Their family attends North Point Community Church.

GAC BOARD OF TRUSTEES Ms. Deborah Akindele Mr. Joe Arnold Dr. Major Boglin* Mrs. Michelle Brechbuhl* Mr. Jim Combee* Mr. Jim Conkel Mr. Steve Eaton* Mr. Steve Elrod Mr. Jeff Foxworthy Mr. Lee Freeman Mr. Bart Harper* Mr. Gary Long Mr. Bill Long Mr. Don McLaughlin Mr. Bob McMahan

GAC FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mr. Joe Arnold Mr. Ed Bastian Mr. Ulrich Brechbuhl Mr. Gary Chamblee Mr. Jim Combee* Mr. Jim Conkel Mr. Brad Dinsmore Mr. Steve Eaton Mr. Lee Freeman Mr. Bart Harper Mrs. Melanie Langsett Mr. Bill Long

Gary Chamblee Financial Advisor, Shumard Family Foundation Gary & Karen have three children - Ryan, Justin, and Rachel (Chamblee) Reiboldt (GAC '02), and two grandchildren at GAC.

Brad Dinsmore Corporate EVP, Consumer Banking & Private Wealth Management, SunTrust Bank Brad & Connie have four children at GAC – Brandon (9th), Brooke (9th), Drew (9th), & Madison (9th).

Mr. Bob McMahan* Mr. Fernando Nasmyth Mr. Terry Nichols Mr. Russ Reynolds* Mr. Mac Schneider Mr. Billy Schroer* Dr. Todd Stewart Mr. Tom Tabor Mr. Jim Tidwell Mrs. Melanie Walton Mr. John Wood

RWANDA CASE BOARD OF DIRECTORS Mr. Jim Combee* Mr. Bart Harper*

Mr. Ken Shumard* Mr. Jeff Street

*Executive Committee Members

NEW MEMBER OF THE RWANDA CASE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

NEW MEMBERS OF THE GAC FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Ulrich Brechbuhl CEO, Chamberlin Edmonds Ulrich & Michelle have three sons at GAC – Hans (9th), Jacob (8th), & Pirmin (6th).

Mr. Fernando Nasmyth* Mr. Allen Nichols Mr. Ned O’Brien Mr. Josh Osborne Mr. Steve Phillips Mr. Russ Reynolds Mr. Billy Schroer Mr. David Scobey, Jr. Mrs. Carrie Shumard Mrs. Joyce Shumard Dr. Todd Stewart* Mr. Tom Tabor Mr. Jim Tidwell Mr. John Wood

Melanie Walton Financial Advisor, Morgan Stanley Melanie & Robert have two children at GAC – James (8th) & Elizabeth (6th).

Jeff Street Founder, StreetWise Partners & VIA Consulting, LLC Jeff & Tracy have two daughters at GAC – Kennedy (10th) & Reagan (7th).

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“After my husband passed away suddenly in 2012, I was left with the responsibility of figuring out what schooling option would be best for my children going forward. Greater Atlanta Christian School rose to the top as the ideal choice for them. As a GAC graduate myself, I knew firsthand that they would receive a top-notch educational experience in a spiritually focused environment. In such uncertain times, I needed that assurance for myself and my kids. However, the cost was too high for our family’s budget and we would need assistance. I am eternally grateful for the GA GOAL program as it has made it possible for both of my children to attend GAC!” -L. Fernandez

We encourage you to become one of our valued GOAL contributors!

You have likely heard about the Georgia GOAL program and how it helps our school. This incredible and proven opportunity allows Georgia taxpayers to redirect a portion of their state income tax to provide financial aid for eligible students to attend Greater Atlanta Christian School.

You will make a significant positive impact by directing tax dollars you are already going to pay.

By contributing to GOAL for a tax credit and designating that the dollars be used at our school, you will provide opportunities for Georgia families desiring to attend GAC. Our school is then able to: • Increase the amount of financial aid that can be offered to new students

• Enable the school to further its mission by reaching more families desiring a Christian education

• Preserve more of our existing financial aid to assist families already enrolled • Increase enrollment • Increase tuition income • Increase the funds available to improve educational and other offerings

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winter 2014 | gacs today

photographed by Gordon Trice

What was once called “too good to be true” is an invaluable benefit for our school and community. 2014 GOAL Tax Credits will be a precious commodity!

Georgians are literally racing to get their share of these popular tax credits before they are consumed each year.

In 2014, GOAL expects that all $58 million of available tax credits will be gone by February 2014! Please ACT NOW if you wish to participate for 2014.

Help us obtain the maximum number of 2014 tax credit contributions for our community in order to continue providing financial aid to students to attend Greater Atlanta Christian School. Please start the process today by visiting the GAC website under the tab Giving/Georgia GOAL Tax credit and complete the form online.

Myth Buster: The Truth? 86% of our Georgia GOAL students joined GAC in Elementary or Junior High. For complete transparency – please see the breakdown of the 44 students that are currently attending GAC with the assistance of a financial aid award from the Georgia GOAL Tax Credit program.

“I heard that GAC uses the Georgia GOAL program to recruit students for athletics.”

8 12 24

Junior High

Senior High

Early Childhood Village/Elementary

Students at GAC through GA GOAL Program

*

The Truth? No student at GAC receives 100% tuition. In fact, the average Georgia GOAL award for 2013-2014 is $8,100.

Of the 44 students – 22 female, 22 male Of the 12 Senior High Students, - 6 joined GAC in Elementary or JH

"Students who receive a Georgia GOAL Scholarship do not pay any tuition.”

Myth Buster:

NEW THIS YEAR!

Do you own an S-corporation, LLC or Partnership? You can contribute up to $10,000 to the Georgia GOAL Scholarship Program, designate GAC as the recipient and receive a tax credit. See the GAC website for more information or contact Heni Jordan at 770-243-2209.

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GAC Annual Fund 2013

ANNUAL FUND CABINET We celebrated an extremely successful Annual Fund this year, which was made possible by the hard work of many volunteers.

The GAC Development Office is especially grateful for the dedication and hard work of these volunteers.

EARLY CHILDHOOD VILLAGE & ELEMENTARY

katherine white,

vice president of development

T

he GAC Annual Fund 2013-2014 was incredibly successful as we surpassed our overall dollar goal and received over $900,000 in gifts and pledges! This is truly a blessing to our school, and we are thankful for the support shown by the GAC community. The financial strength of GAC is dependent upon the participation of every family, and those gifts benefit our students in many amazing ways.

The Annual Fund gifts enable GAC to offer new academic programs, advanced technologies, facilities upgrades and many other important programs that immediately impact our students’ experiences.

‘Fun’draising – noun

School spirit, common purpose and FUN were in huge supply during the campaign: » early childhood village/ elementary – Favorite team jersey day, picnic lunch with snow cones, Silly Day, pool/bounce house party » junior high – Flip-flop day, Bomb the Baldies, Slime the Student Council, First in lunch line, Water balloon day » senior high - Volleyball & dodge ball tournaments, Offsite lunch, Donuts for the Homerooms, and Donor appreciation activities

School Chairs - Bruce & Cynthia Bower 6th Grade Chairs - Rick & Susan Lowenstein 7th Grade Chairs - Trace & Christy Dillon 8th Grade Chairs - Prince & Paulette Phillips 6th Grade Faculty Chair - Gary Richey 7th Grade Faculty Chair - Jackie Bradley 8th Grade Faculty Chair - Jami Denton

SENIOR HIGH

S.A.L.T (STUDENT ADVANCEMENT LEADERSHIP TEAM) 10th Grade - Emily Becker, Madison Holcomb, Mallory Morris, Theresa Nguyen, Liam Sullivan, Leah Thompson, Brandon Toomey & Anne Winfrey

All In! »O ver 95% of current GAC families participated » 1 00% participation from the faculty & staff within weeks of campaign rollout »E xceeded the Annual Fund revenue goal in record time »9 9% of Early Childhood Village & Elementary families participated »9 7% of Junior High families participated »9 2% of Senior High families participated

11th Grade - Bailey Collinson, Griffin Hornyak, Katie Irwin, David Johnson, Jenny Mazurkiewicz, Gunnar Nelson, Rachel Raspberry, Hannah Runkel, Lauren Santana, Parker Stevens, Modupe Thompson, Madison Ward, George Winfrey 12th Grade - Brianna Cummings, Heather Ferrari, Katie Jones, Connor Joseph, Eli Kahn, Tina Martinello, Andrew McCarter, Tayler McPherson, Jackson O'Brien, Anna Kate Pitts, Jake Shumard, Mac Sullivan, Tyler Sztuka gacs today | winter 2014

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G A C 2 0 1 3 -2 0 1 4 A N N UA L F U N D

Thank you to the entire GAC family for being All In!

JUNIOR HIGH

School Chairs - James & Lea Long 9th Grade Chairs - Trip & Lori Eberhart 10th Grade Chairs - Tom & Mary Carol Sullivan 11th Grade Chairs - Jim & Mary Rose 12th Grade Chairs - Joe & Cheryl Chapple 9th Grade Faculty Chair - Lauri Fields 10th Grade Faculty Chair - Lisa Wolaver 11th Grade Faculty Chairs - Tim Baker & Tammy Hughes 12th Grade Faculty Chairs - Elaine Adams & Terry Beasley

∞

School Chairs - Clayton & Donna Braswell K3-K6 Grade Chairs - Tricia Wilson & Jennifer Bragg 1st Grade Chairs - Jason & Tiffany Rash and Jose & Karissa Cangiano 2nd Grade Chairs - Jeron & Suzy Evans and Segun & Michele Salami 3rd Grade Chairs - Steve & Allison Mitchamore and Ken & Connie Shumard 4th Grade Chairs - Brian & Leah Pugh and Shaun & Jean Rawls 5th Grade Chairs - Seth & Ann Davies and Cliff & Seana Simpson

ALL IN!

GAC donor lists have been removed from the online GACS Today magazine.

G A C 2 0 1 3 -2 0 1 4 A N N UA L F U N D

â&#x2C6;&#x17E; 42

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photographed by Gordon Trice

∞ G A C 2 0 1 3 -2 0 1 4 A N N UA L F U N D GACS 1500 CENTER, A NEW ADDITION TO THE GAC CAMPUS FOR THE 2013-14 SCHOOL YEAR, HOUSES THE OFFICES OF DEVELOPMENT, FINANCE, HUMAN RESOURCES, AND STUDENT ACCOUNTS AS WELL AS TRAINING AND CONFERENCE ROOM SPACE.

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GAC donor lists have been removed from the online GACS Today magazine.

ALUMNI NEWS Save the

Date:

JANUARY

31

MAY

Freshman College Parent Care Package Party January 31, 2014 9:00AM GACS 1500 Center

3 Generation Party

2

May 2, 2014 10:00AM Early Childhood Village Playground

∞

FACEBOOK:

Follow @alumniGACS

Like the "Greater Atlanta Christian School Alumni" page

G A C 2 0 1 3 -2 0 1 4 A L U M N I N E W S

TWITTER:

CONNECT: INSTAGRAM: Follow "GACSAlumni"

LINKEDIN: Join the "Greater Atlanta Christian School Alumni" Professional Networking Group

Ronnalee W. Strickland ‘83 Alumni Relations & Foundations Officer rstrickland@greateratlantachristian.org

Have a new baby?

Let us know! We have a gift for you.

Update your contact info at www.gacsalumni.com and receive a gift!

gacs today | winter 2014

63

chaney means

CLASS OF 2013 Sam McLean earned a spot in Jazz Band II at Belmont University in Nashville, TN. Chris Bartolomei was chosen as Mercer University’s Toby the Bear mascot. He has enjoyed cheering for Mercer’s inaugural football season.

Emee Herbert was recognized as the 2013 SAC Conference Women’s Golf Player of the Year and 1st team ALL-SAC. She was also recognized in 2012 as SAC Conference Freshman of the Year. This fall, Emee transferred to Coastal Carolina University as a junior.

Victoria Barker, a junior at the University of Georgia, was recently a featured author on the Georgia Political Review website for her article “The Blurred Lines of Gendered Norms.”

CLASS OF 2010 madeline baker

gracie julian

David and Lindsay (Adams) Lundeen were married in June 2013.

Lindsay graduated from Kennesaw State University in December 2013. The Lundeens will soon be moving to Fort Carson, CO. « Chaney Means is captain of the Western Kentucky University Lady Hilltoppers basketball team and was inducted into the Chi Alpha Sigma National College Athlete Honor Society in 2013.

Chaney was recently awarded honors for academic achievement by the Sunbelt Conference and honored with the Student-Athlete TOPSY Service Award by the WKU Athletic Success Center. She is majoring in exercise science and plans to attend school to become a physician’s assistant. « Jessica Tuggle was crowned the 2013 Valdosta State University Homecoming Queen. She is currently a member of the VSU tennis team and serves as a school ambassador.

CLASS OF 2009

∞

G A C 2 0 1 3 -2 0 1 4 A L U M N I N E W S

CLASS OF 2011

Colton Chapple received the 2013 Harvard University Male Athlete Award. While playing quarterback for the Harvard Crimson, Colton set football records in highest scoring offense in Ivy League history in 2012 and single-game passing yard records, total offense and touchdown passes. He received numerous accolades in his career, including the New England Division 1 FCS Gold Helmet, the College Football Performance Awards Quarterback Award, the George “Bulger” Lowe Award, the 2012 Asa S. Bushnell Cup winner as Ivy League Offensive Player of the Year and four Ivy League Player of the Week nods. david and lindsay (adams) lundeen

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Kevin Holzgrefe graduated Magna Cum Laude from University of Georgia’s Terry Business School in December 2013 with majors in accounting and finance. He was a member of the Corsair Society and interned in the summer of 2013 for Credit Suisse in New York, NY. Credit Suisse has offered him a full-time position beginning in July 2014 in NYC.

taylor and kimberly (moore) ezell

Madeline Baker graduated in December 2013 from Samford University with a bachelor’s degree in English and a divinity degree from Beeson Divinity School. She is planning a September 2014 wedding to fiancé, Chris Yancey, who also graduated with his master’s in divinity from Beeson Divinity School this past December.

Chris completed his undergraduate mechanical engineering degree from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. «

∞

Will Harper graduated from the University of Georgia in May 2013 with majors in environmental economics and management/ water and soil resources. He is interning for the Greater Atlanta Christian School Rwanda Initiative through the spring of 2014 to gain experience for a future career in international development.

G A C 2 0 1 3 -2 0 1 4 A L U M N I N E W S

Justin Ernest graduated from the University of Georgia in May 2013 with a major in finance. He is a Treasury Analyst III at the Coca-Cola Company.

Gracie Julian graduated from Samford University’s Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing with her bachelor of science in nursing in May 2013. She spent the summer as a nurse at WinShape Camp for Girls and traveled with family and friends. Gracie lives in Birmingham, AL and works at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit. «

CLASS OF 2008 Caroline Vick graduated in May 2013 from Harding University with a degree in nursing. After passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) in June, Caroline joined the burn unit at Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Little Rock, AR. » Kimberly (Moore) Ezell graduated in May 2012 with a bachelor of science degree in nursing from Lipscomb University and married Taylor Ezell. The Ezells live in Nashville, TN, where Kimberly is pursuing her master’s of science in nursing at Belmont University.

Taylor is a CPA at Frasier, Dean, and Howard. They are members of the Ethos Church family. » Mark Edwards graduated from the University of Florida in May 2013 with a bachelor of science degree in industrial and systems engineering. Before pursuing a master’s in sports management, Mark is hiking, fly fishing, mountaineering, sea kayaking, and rock climbing in Patagonia with the National Outdoor Leadership School.

Zac Swann released an album this past fall entitled Cabin Fever. He is engaged to fellow band member, Mariel Bolton.

caroline vick

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CLASS OF 2007

amelia gazaway and garrett granberg

matt and courney (guy) meng

Matt and Courtney (Guy) Meng were married in June 2013 in Atlanta, GA. They live in Athens, GA, where Matt is currently in his third year at the Medical College of Georgia. Courtney recently received her master’s degree in rehabilitative counseling from Georgia State University. Matt and Courtney met one another in 11th grade at GAC! « Dale and Emily (Sisco) Lipscomb are proud to announce the birth of their daughter, Sydney Brooke Lipscomb, born in August 2013.

They live in Suwanee, GA. «

t-bob and caitlin (barry) herbert

T-Bob Hebert and Caitlin Barry were married in June 2013.

They live in New Orleans, LA, where T-Bob is working in radio broadcasting and Caitlin has started a photography business, Caitlin B Photography. « emily (sisco) lipscomb

joseph lawrence

CLASS OF 2006 Abigail (Townsend) Adams graduated from the University of Oklahoma College of Law in May 2013. She married Henson Adams in June 2013. Henson completed two years of teaching in a public high school in Oklahoma City through Teach for America.

The Adams have moved to Austin, TX, where Henson is starting his first year at the University of Texas School of Law this fall. «

CLASS OF 2005 abigail (townsend) adams

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Amelia Gazaway and Garrett Granberg were married in December 2012. They are expecting their first child, a daughter, in January 2014. Garrett teaches Senior High World History & Government and is on the football and baseball coaching staff at Greater Atlanta Christian School. The Granbergs live in Lawrenceville, GA. «

Joseph Lawrence was selected from among thousands to serve as a 2013-14 Global Health Fellow. Joseph graduated from the University of Georgia and received a master’s in public health from University of Pittsburgh and attended orientation for Global Health Fellowship on the campus of Yale. Joseph will work this year with the Zambia Center for Applied Health Research and Development. « Drew and Diane Henley live in Atlanta with their two daughters, Anna (3) and Evelyn (1). Drew is employed by Trinity Anglican Mission, leading inner city and church-planting ministries in the Vine City community.

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CLASS OF 2004

casey and claire (caveness) chalk

Jonathan and Morgan (Aurandt) Roldan have two children, Landon (6) and Kyleigh (3). Jonathan is an Atlanta police officer and Morgan is completing her early education degree at GGC. The Roldans live in Lawrenceville, GA. After graduating from Berry College, Ted Marcus received his certification in Long Term Care Administration. He currently lives in Alton, IL, where he is the administrator for Blu Fountain Nursing and Rehab Center.

Adam Marcus is engaged and lives in the Atlanta area. He is a sales associate at Amazing Luxury Cars.

Levi and Tori (Means) Rath welcomed son, Cutler James, in August 2013. The Raths live in York, NE. »

CLASS OF 2003 Alex and Amber Jones welcomed their first child, Annabelle Grace, in April 2013. Alex is president and founder of Guardian Financial, Inc., a wealth management company managing assets in six southeastern states and California. They currently live in Franklin, TN, and attend Otter Creek Church of Christ. »

alex and amber jones

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Jimmy and Katie (Kennedy) Sobeck were married in August 2011.

In May 2013, Katie graduated from Georgia State University with a master’s degree in heritage preservation. The Sobecks welcomed son, Wesley Alexander, in August 2013. They live in Atlanta, GA.

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Casey and Claire (Caveness) Chalk were married in August 2012 in Alexandria, VA. Claire graduated in 2010 from Franciscan University in Steubenville, OH, with degrees in mathematics and education. She taught Algebra, Geometry, and AP Calculus at John Paul the Great Catholic High School in Dumfries, VA, from 20102013. Claire and Casey have one daughter, Annemarie Frances, and are moving to Bangkok, Thailand, in summer 2014. »

joe chupp

matt and rachel (garrett) ley

tori (means) rath

Joe and Hillary Chupp welcomed son, Asher Joseph, born in August 2013. Asher joins big sister, Kennedy (2). The Chupps live in Colorado. » Rachel (Garrett) Ley moved back to Atlanta, GA in 2012 after living in London, England for 5 years. She returned to the U.S., with her then fiancé, Matt Ley, whom she met during her masters program at Imperial College Business School in London in 2008. Rachel and Matt were married in May 2013. Rachel works in professional services at a software company and Matt works in marketing for an industrial supplies company. »

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THEY ALL PROCLAIMED THAT JESUS IS CHRIST AND THAT THROUGH HIM WE ARE UNSTOPPABLE.

Christine Young, GAC Class of 2011

H

igh school students all around the U.S. learn the same geometry, chemistry, English, and P.E. Being a student at GAC is a vastly different experience.

Not everyone is able to learn geometry from a teacher who is also your basketball coach and leads your team to become state runner-up.

Not everyone has a chemistry teacher who helps someone like me, a film student who hates science, test out of eight credit hours of college-level chemistry.

Not everyone has an English teacher willing to be the star of the senior video and voted senior prom’s favorite teacher, all while helping students like me remember Beowulf’s crazy mother.

Not everyone has a strength-andconditioning coach willing to dedicate precious workout time to have devotionals — and then train students with excellence, allowing me to be a walk-on to the University of Texas rowing team.

GAC’s excellent academics did, of course, play a huge part in my college career at the University of Texas, but, more importantly, my experience at GAC helped me develop a foundation built on Christ.

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All of my teachers have had a significant impact on me because of what they shared in common. They all proclaimed that Jesus is Christ and that through Him we are unstoppable. And this love is what I remember most about them and my time in their classes.

Losing that state basketball championship was painful, but it gave me the character to help lead our UT rowing team to a Big 12 championship only one year later. Film is a very edgy business, and having a Christcentered background allows me to push forward with the armor of God. GAC helped me understand the value of relationship, which was instrumental in helping me be accepted into the first collegiate 3D film program in the U.S. GAC helped me learn to have the strength to pursue Him despite secular aspects of college.

I can’t recite the periodic table, but I can boldly say that through God’s gift of patience to that dear chemistry teacher, I am able to take more film classes instead of required core classes, allowing me to glorify Him through my passion of film.

By no means is any high school perfect, but when you can go on mission trips to Kenya every year for spring break and proclaim the gospel alongside your own mother, classmates, and teachers, you know that God is alive and working in your school.

And while I did have to wear a bracelet over that cross tattoo that I got senior year, it has since been a reminder of the One who loved me enough to pay the ultimate price.

These are the memories I cherish from my time at GAC, and I attribute them to Greater Atlanta Christian School’s active pursuit of Christ. n

I CAN’T RECITE THE PERIODIC TABLE, BUT I CAN BOLDLY SAY THAT THROUGH GOD’S GIFT OF PATIENCE TO THAT DEAR CHEMISTRY TEACHER, I AM ABLE TO TAKE MORE FILM CLASSES INSTEAD OF REQUIRED CORE CLASSES, ALLOWING ME TO GLORIFY HIM THROUGH MY PASSION OF FILM.

CLASS OF 2002 Brian and Ellen (Blount) Hake welcomed their second son, Mason Henry, in March 2013. Mason joins big brother, Carter (2). »

ellen (blount) hake

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Tyler and Ashley (Proctor) Aurandt were married in April 2013 in Savannah, GA. Tyler graduated from Valdosta State University with degrees in accounting and finance and a master’s degree in public administration. He played football for the Blazers throughout his college career, winning two national championship titles. The four years immediately following graduation, Tyler was a football coach, helping lead the Blazers to another national championship title. Tyler made the move to high school football in 2011 for the Grayson Rams. The team won their first state championship title during the 2011 season. This is Tyler’s third year at Grayson High School teaching math and coaching football. Ashley also graduated from VSU with a degree in exercise physiology where she was a member of the nationally ranked VSU Redhots Dance Team. Ashley currently works as a surgical assistant for orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Jeff Traub. The couple lives in Grayson, GA. »

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Chris and Deanna Barlow welcomed son, William Dukes, in August 2012. In the summer of 2013, Chris left active duty in the Army, and they moved from Germany to Boston, MA. Chris is pursuing an MBA at Harvard Business School.

CLASS OF 2001

tyler and ashley (proctor) aurandt

nick and melissa campbell

Nick Campbell graduated from Carson Newman University in May 2005 and is currently pursuing a master’s degree from Liberty University Seminary. Nick and his wife, Melissa, live in Seymour, TN with their two sons, Mason (5) and Owen (3). Nick is a middle school student minister at First Baptist Church, Sevierville. » Jennifer Giesemann currently lives in Antigua, Guatemala and works as a volunteer speech pathologist in a school for children with special needs. She has completed one year of her two-year commitment. » Jason and Kristen (Harris) Andersen were married in October 2012. Jason and Kristen currently live in Winston-Salem, NC, where Jason is completing his residency in orthopedic surgery and Kristen works as a teacher. »

CLASS OF 2000

jason and kristen andersen

jennifer giesemann

lane and kristi (bodenbender) mershon

Lane and Kristi (Bodenbender) Mershon welcomed identical twin boys, Blake Christopher and Colton James, in June 2013. The Mershons live in Smyrna, GA. »

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Chris Dowdy graduated in December 2013 with a Ph.D. in religious studies from the Graduate Program in Religious Studies at Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX. His dissertation and defense received honors. His wife, Lauren, is in her sixth year of teaching high school English in the Dallas Independent School District. They recently celebrated the first birthday of their son, Silas, as well as his first steps. «

Crystal (Barron) Fowler is an art teacher at Buford High School.

She was named Varsity Girls’ Head Soccer Coach in January 2013.

In spring 2013, she was awarded the Gwinnett County Coach of the Year (AAAAA-A girls). Crystal is married to Jonathan Fowler and has 2 children, Mia (3) and Jonathan Jr. (1).

chris and lauren dowdy

CLASS OF 199 7 Tommy (’89) and Shonda (Rouse) Tormohlen welcomed their son, “TJ” Thomas John Tormohlen II, in April 2013. Tommy works for Mossy Oak, a division of Haas Outdoors, in licensing and sales as their Archery Account Manager. Shonda graduated from Mercer University with a BSN and works as a nurse at Piedmont Hospital in Atlanta. She is continuing her education to become a family nurse practitioner. The Tormohlens live in Winder, GA. «

tommy and shonda (rouse) tormohlen

ashley (burton) sanders

barrett and amy (mcfaddin) breeding

CLASS OF 1996 Cary and Ashley (Burton) Sanders welcomed their third child, Micah, born in April 2013, weighing 4 lbs 8 oz. After spending three weeks in NICU, Micah was welcomed home by his big brother Noah and sister Eden. Thank you for all the prayers from our GAC family! Micah is doing great! «

CLASS OF 1995 Barrett and Amy (McFaddin) Breeding, and their daughter, Lily (5), welcomed Nora Kate in January 2013. Barrett is a senior manager at BKD accounting firm while Amy enjoys being a stay-at-home mom. They live in Little Rock, AR. «

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CLASS OF 1998

CLASS OF 1994 Susan Sim Oh is managing partner at Telemundo Atlanta (WKTB).

In June 2013, the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Southeast honored Telemundo Atlanta with three Emmy Awards out of the seven Emmy nominations. Susan was awarded the Station Excellence Emmy. Telemundo Atlanta was the only Spanish-language station to receive the coveted honor of Station Excellence within the Southeast region.

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Rachael Davis, M.D., GAC Class of 2004

I

had the privilege of being at Greater Atlanta Christian School for 11 years. After graduating from GAC in the Class of 2004, I attended Auburn University. My time spent preparing in Senior High honors and AP classes provided me the opportunity to participate in Auburn’s Honors Program. I graduated summa cum laude with a bachelor of science in Biomedical Science in 2008.

While at Auburn, I was very active in the Auburn Christian Student Center, which gave me opportunities for growth in leadership as a leader of a small group and in service with multiple local and international mission trips.

After graduating from Auburn, I attended

kristen (davis) popham

I am forever grateful for my time at GAC and the integral part it has played in creating the person I am today. The role the school, the teachers, and my parents played during my formative years set the foundation for all that I have been able to accomplish academically and spiritually to impact my community and the world. n

CLASS OF 1993 Bryan and Kristen (Davis) Popham welcomed son, Alexander “Xander” Davis, in March 2013. « Kevin Shields and his moved to the Dallas metroplex where he is Manager of Circulation Unlimited.

family have Fort Worth the General Promotions eric and emilie (sabourin) ogren

CLASS OF 1992 Eric and Emilie (Sabourin) Ogren recently moved to Mills River, NC with their sons, Jacob (13) and Jackson (10). Eric works for Harrison Construction and is the Asheville manager. Emilie is a labor and delivery RN. »

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TWO TRIPS TO MALAWI, AFRICA, AND MEDICAL MISSION TRIPS TO TRINIDAD, ETHIOPIA, AND THE REMOTE HILL TRACTS OF BANGLADESH.

Today, I am a second-year pediatric resident at Greenville Memorial Hospital in South Carolina. My current plans include pursuing a chief residency position followed by a Hematology/Oncology Fellowship.

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My love of missions and international travel began in Senior High while participating in a spring break mission trip to the Czech Republic. Since them, I have been a part of many trips: two trips to New Orleans (Katrina Relief), two trips to Malawi, Africa, and medical mission trips to Trinidad, Ethiopia, and the remote hill tracts of Bangladesh.

medical school at Medical College of Georgia (now Georgia Regents University) class of 2012. The seeds planted in Junior High and Senior High continued to blossom as I grew spiritually by continuing to participate in and lead church activities and small groups for young women. I have experienced a blending of my spiritual and professional lives through the many medical mission trips in which I’ve participated.

CLASS OF 1991 »

Kirk and Kerry (Hawkins) Parker were blessed to welcome twins, Aaron Reese and Allie Rose, in February 2013. The family lives in Waco, TX.

CLASS OF 1988

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CLASS OF 1986 Mark Pierce is a managing partner of InfraScience, an IT consulting services firm. He and his wife, Billie, currently live in Buford, GA.

update your contact info at

www.gacsalumni.com and receive a gift!

kirk and kerry (hawkins) parker

CLASS OF 1984 Dr. Jack Eades, an immunologist, lives in Savannah, GA with his wife, Dr. Eleanor Eades and three children – Maddox, Hannah and Sam. He is CEO and founder of Southern Allergy and Asthma. Jack has authored a devotional book that was published in summer 2013: In a Hurry to be Holy. Copies are available in the GAC Spartan Store. »

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John Alan Turner’s sixth book, Crazy Stories: Sane God is scheduled for publishing by Broadman & Holman in early 2014. »

CLASS OF 1982

Please continue to pray for the families of the following graduates who passed away recently:

Dorrence and Kelly (Sewell) Stovall ‘84 live in Nashville, TN. Kelly works for Metropolitan Davidson County in the law department as a senior paralegal. Dorrence is Vice President of Network Management at Prime Health Services, a national PPO network working with insurance companies and self-insured employers.

The Stovalls are active members of St. Patrick’s Anglican Church in Smyrna, TN, where Dorrence serves on the Vestry and heads the stewardship team.

» judy (hodge) easterwood GAC Class of 1972

» gloria richardson GAC Class of 1973

» paul jones GAC Class of 1979 72

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dr. jack eades

SHOP THE GAC SPARTAN STORE spartanstore.greateratlantachristian.org

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GREATER ATLANTA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

Non-Profit Org. U.S. Postage

1575 indian trail road norcross, georgia 30093

PAID

Norcross, GA Permit #11

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Greater Atlanta Christian School Incorporated admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarships and loan programs, and athletic and other administered programs.

S AV E T H E D A T E : Music Man

January 30 & 31, 2014 - 7:30pm February 1, 2014 - 7:30pm February 2, 2014 - 2:00pm

} Artist Extravaganza

March 27, 2014 – 12:00-6:00pm March 28, 2014 – 7:30am-4:30pm March 29, 2014 – 10:00am-3:00pm

} Black & White Gala March 27, 2014 – 6:00pm

} Footloose

April 29, 2014 – 7:30pm May 1 & 3, 2014 – 7:30pm May 4, 2014 – 2:00pm

}