December 2011 by Lakeland Christian School

Viking December 2011

The

L ak e la n d C h r i s t i a n S c h o o l

Christian Emphasis an LCS Distinctive

Mission Possible By Dr. Mike Sligh, Headmaster

he mission of Lakeland Christian School is to educate

and that His ultimate

students in the light of God’s word to equip them for a

revelation is in Jesus

lifetime of learning, leadership, service and worship.

Christ (Hebrews 1:1-3).

“Your mission, Mr. Phelps, should you decide to

God’s truth as revealed

accept it ...” The seemingly impossible challenge was

in scripture informs the

described by the familiar voice on the mini-recorder before

Christian’s perspective

it self-destructed in a puff of smoke. The skilled team was

on all of life and

gathered, and the adventure was begun. Mission Impossible

learning. Concepts

provided adventures of intrigue to TV audiences many

of beauty, justice,

We have not changed our mission. We have only endeavored to express it with greater clarity.

years ago and even inspired movies by

morality, community,

the same name in recent years.

love and many other

There is something captivating

foundational elements

about a mission of significance. The

of life all find their

Mission Impossible team demonstrated

foundation in the

exceptional skill, impeccable timing,

character and truth of

resourcefulness in adversity and a cool

God. An education that

head under p ressure. They accomplished

shelters students from

the impossible to preserve life as we know

these truths does not prepare them for the real world. There is a great deal of conversation today about being

it in less than sixty minutes each week! The mission of LCS is even more

“lifetime learners.” The expansion of information and knowledge

significant and captivating, for it is

is occurring at such blinding speed that the importance of

a mission with eternal implications.

learning how to learn often supersedes what is learned. We

Over the past few months, members of the faculty,

want our students to have 21st century skills for learning with a

administration and board have been engaged in a process

worldview anchored in the unchanging Truth of scripture.

of revising our mission statement. We have not changed

Leadership and service go together throughout the

our mission. We have only endeavored to express it with

scriptures. A leader must have the personal discipline to lead

greater clarity. The mission statement is complemented

himself/herself before attempting to influence others. The

by a listing of Core Values that provides an expression of

development of leadership involves trial and error and can be

what is highly valued at LCS as we go about the business

messy at times. Students must have real opportunities to fail

of fulfilling our mission (see page 9).

along the way in order to rise to leadership. Biblically-based

Our mission is first and foremost to educate. Our

leadership is rooted in the notion of servant leadership. A leader

primary focus must be teaching and learning. Our

is first of all a servant. Even the secular publications today

students must acquire the knowledge and skills that will

are full of encouragement to adopt the servant-leader style of

enable them to take an active role in the global economy

leadership. We want to provide all students with opportunities to

and in the world of ideas.

develop as leaders and as servants. Service includes compassion

But what does it mean to educate students “in the

for others and a call to action when faced with injustice. There is no higher human activity than that of worship. We

light of God’s Word”? Volumes have been written on this topic but at the very core is the understanding that God is

all worship something. Because we are all fallen and selfish by

(Genesis 1:1; Hebrews 11:6), that He has revealed Himself in

nature, we are all too prone to worship the creation and culture

scripture (2 Timothy 3:16) and in the creation (Romans 1),

rather than the Creator. Certainly, only God can change the continued on page 7

in this issue

16-18 Secondary News

2 Boosterthon

4-9

3 Dream Come

10-14 Elementary Happenings

20-23 Sports

True Campaign

Spiritual Distinctive of LCS Fine Arts

Alumni

LCS Event to Feature Recording Artist Jonny Diaz 5th Annual

Concert Set for February 13

onny Diaz is coming to Lakeland for the benefit of LCS! The contemporary Christian

pop artist and singer of the hit song, “More Beautiful You”, will perform in concert at the 5th Annual LCS Musical Harvest, Monday, February 13, 7:00 p.m., at Trinity Presbyterian Church in downtown Lakeland. Diaz, last year’s Dove Award nominee for New Artist of the Year, will perform on stage with more than 115 LCS student musicians and vocalists. This special concert evening will feature Diaz singing more than a dozen of his top songs, and he will be joined in certain numbers by the Senior High Concert Choir, the Junior High Choir, the Chamber Ensemble and the Sixth Grade Choir. The LCS Symphonic Winds will provide instrumental support. Diaz has shared the stage with such artists as Steven Curtis Chapman, MercyMe, Matthew West and Bebo Norman, and has appeared at some of the largest Christian music festivals in the country. The music video for “More Beautiful You” won Gospel Music Channel’s Contemporary Video Award in 2009, receiving more votes than any other video in any category. Proceeds from this year’s event will help purchase a new baby grand piano for the Music Department. The balance of the money raised will be used to provide financial aid to families struggling to keep their children at LCS, a marvelous cause in this economy. Tickets are on sale now in the LCS Advancement Office. Adult tickets are only $25, with student tickets selling for $20. A Gold Patron “Meet the Artist” package is also available, featuring preferred seating at the concert and admission to an after-concert reception at the beautiful home of Dean and Gina Saunders. The Musical Harvest is usually the school’s primary fall fund raising event, but was postponed to February due to a scheduling conflict. All tickets purchased for the November date will be honored at the concert on February 13. Don’t miss this outstanding opportunity to enjoy one of America’s leading recording artists along with LCS student musicians and vocalists, all while providing critical support to Lakeland Christian.

Boosterthon Program Raises $44,000 I

High schooler Houston May lends his support to a young runner.

n its second year at Lakeland Christian School, the

Boosterthon program generated fun and excitement around campus as Brave Dave and his crew took students on an “EPIC Adventure!” This year’s Epic theme was an acronym that taught students four very important lessons: E – Encourage: Students should build each other up with their words and never tear others down. P – Play: It’s important for students to exercise and play outside together, building friendships on the playground and in the neighborhood. I – Invite: Sometimes people may be outsiders or feel excluded from the group. Students should see others on the sidelines and invite them into the group. C – Celebrate: Celebrating each other’s victories is so important. Students are not jealous of other’s successes; they celebrate with them and should applaud everyone’s accomplishments. The Boosterthon team members shared daily lessons in each elementary and middle school classroom. In the evenings, students raised pledge support for the Fun Run, the culminating activity of the program. With loud music playing and cheering sections of parents and high school students outlining the track, students ran between 25-35 laps on a special track set up in Viking Stadium. There were three separate Fun Runs: Grades K4-2 and Discovery, Grades 3-5 and Grades 6-8. At the end of the day, LCS students helped raise $44,000 for the school, which will help fund the shading needed for the playgrounds on the LCS campus. Students in grades 3-5 take off for the first lap of their Fun Run.

Boosterthon team leader “Brave Dave” gets the students ready to run.

Financial Aid Fund Nears Annual Goal Less than $10,000 to be Raised by Year-End LCS is on the threshold of reaching a critical fund-raising goal for the 2011-12 school year – one that makes a Christian education accessible for a growing number of families. The school’s Financial Aid Fund now needs less than $10,000 by

Campaign Nears Completion LCS Students Benefit from $23 Million Expansion

December 31 to meet an unprecedented

The funding of the most massive expansion in the 57-year history of

goal of $440,000 for this year.

Lakeland Christian School is nearing its long-awaited completion.

Many students were able to continue

More than $20 Million has been committed to this effort, which has

at Lakeland Christian, and many new

transformed the LCS campus in amazing ways – all for the benefit of

students were able to attend LCS for the

the students and families who enjoy these wonderful new facilities.

first time ever because of the financial

Through the open-hearted generosity of so many, the

assistance the school was able to provide

campaign has provided the Elementary/Middle School building,

for this school year. The c ountry’s

playgrounds, the Center for Early Childhood Education, a new

economic issues are c ontinuing to

maintenance facility, expanded parking, a new main entrance, and

challenge many families’ ability to remain

the unrivaled Viking Stadium.

in the LCS “family.” The F inancial Aid

The Dream Come True wrap-up campaign is now in full

Fund goal continues to grow as a record

swing, as the school aggressively seeks the final several million dol-

amount of requests are submitted during

lars needed to complete this bold and unprecedented endeavor. The

these years of financial h ardship for so

wrap-up effort is a top funding priority for the school for the end of

many. Monies raised through the school’s

this year and moving into 2012.

spring auction, through the M usical

Watch for more information coming soon, and ... please

Harvest and through private giving are

... even now, prayerfully consider a wrap-up commitment for

truly making the difference in the lives of

this remarkable effort that benefits scores of students throughout

children and young people through an

each day.

LCS education. Will you prayerfully consider an end-of-the-year gift to the LCS Financial

LCS Director of Advancement Steve Wilson is available to gladly assist in your gift planning. He may be reached at 863/688-2771 or at swilson@lcsonline.org.

Aid Fund to help us reach this year’s goal? We want to see as many students as

More info coming soon!

possible have access to an LCS e ducation. We want them to have the benefits of schooling anchored in Biblical truth, and we want them to develop relationships with peers and with teachers and mentors that can pay dividends for years to come. Your investment in the Financial

Limited Time! Get Brick Pavers for $100 Now is a great time to order a commemorative brick paver for the Viking Stadium

Aid Fund will pay dividends for years, as

Fan Plaza. If you order a paver by December 31, the cost is just $100 per brick.

Lakeland Christian sharpens the minds

This is a $50 discount over the regular price! We want to see all of our students,

and shepherds the hearts of the next

families and alumni represented on the Fan Plaza. You can download an order

generation. Please contact LCS Director

form on the Lakeland C hristian website.

of Advancement Steve Wilson for more

You can also contact Mrs. Claudia Powell

information. Immediate giving is available

at 863-688-2771 or c powell@lcsonline.org if

online, through www.lcsonline.org. Thank

you would like more information.

you for your kind c onsideration on behalf of struggling families.

The Spiritual Distinctive of LCS When I was asked to identify the spiritual distinctive of LCS,

By Mike Sligh Ed. D., Headmaster

challenging, yet most rewarding, areas in which to carve out a

my mind went immediately to the instruction in the scriptures.

spiritual distinctive. Athletics provide the crucible to expose the

The Christian faith is anchored in content. The scriptures of the

needs of our hearts. The coach is uniquely positioned to address

Old and New Testament present the history of redemption. To

issues of the heart in the lives of the team.

be prepared for the storms of life, our children must be anchored

But perhaps nowhere is the spiritual distinctive more

in this content, not just in sentimental religious experiences.

evident as when we encounter the expressions of our

From the Bible stories of the primary grades to the Bible study

brokenness. We are all – staff, students, parents – fallen and in

methods, theology and apologetics of the high school, LCS

need of redemption. The journey of raising children in the midst

students are provided a foundation of biblical truth.

of a post-Christian culture provides many challenges. We are

But Christian schooling should encourage Christian

confronted with sin and failure, unmet expectations and even

living, not just Christian thought. Today a K4 student and her

disappointing moral choices. How do we face these realities?

fifth-grade buddy brought me a Thanksgiving card that they

The Christian school is not a haven from the sinfulness

had made together. Cross-grade involvement provides our

and brokenness of the world. The line between good and evil is

students the opportunity not just to make cards together, but to

not the border of the campus. It runs down the middle of each

develop relationships with those younger and older. It provides

and every one of our hearts. The spiritual distinctive is that

an opportunity for service within the student body that helps

when we are faced with our failures – as staff, as students or

prepare them for service to the community. High school students

as parents – we are called to address our sin in the light of the

tutoring at Troxel House or Parker Street utilize these same skills

gospel. We are called to discipline with the goal of repentance

for the good of children in the community.

and restoration. We are called to make biblical apologies to

Prayer is a key element in cultivating the spiritual culture

one another and to ask for forgiveness. We are called to make

of LCS. It starts at the top with prayer being a major component

changes in our behavior, not to earn favor with God, but

of every meeting of the LCS board of directors. Faculty members

because He has shown great favor to us in providing a Savior

pray regularly for their students and for LCS alumni around

to meet our every need.

the world. Hundreds of “I prayed for you today” prayer cards

I asked a senior recently to identify one or two major ideas

circulate from the board to staff, staff to staff, and teachers

she thought LCS was trying to get across to her in her thirteen

to students and alumni. It is not uncommon to find stacks of

years at LCS. She replied, “That I can live my whole life in

prayer cards received over the years on display by seniors at

worship mode … even in math class when I don’t like math!”

their graduation open house celebrations.

We can do all to the glory of God and do all as an expression of

The spiritual distinctive of LCS is visible in the annual

worship, regardless of our immediate circumstances! She gets it.

homecoming chapel. Members of the homecoming court are

There is no clearer expression of the spiritual distinctive of LCS!

selected based on character qualities. Juniors and seniors share personal testimonies of faith in Christ and examples of how God is working in their lives and directing their steps. Directors of vocal and instrumental music continually point to music not only as a source of pleasure to the performer and audience but also as a means of worship and praise to the Lord. Instructors in the visual arts continually point to the character and nature of God as source beauty from which derived beauty flows. Creativity flows through us as image bearers of the Creator. Coaches of athletic teams work to redeem an area of life that has been so distorted in our culture. This is one of the most

Administrators Reflect on Distinctives at Each Level

• Discipleship opportunities are planned between teachers and students. • Student-led and teacher-led Bible studies take place around campus.

As you read in Dr. Mike Sligh’s lead feature article, the spiritual

• Middle school trips strive to provide distinctive biblical focus.

distinctive of Lakeland Christian School is clearly evident.

• Sixth grade retreat, seventh grade ropes course, eighth

Secondary principal Wayne Shimko, Assistant Middle School Principal Keith Overholt and Elementary Principal Luci O’Byrne

grade trip to Tallahassee – each trip involves devotions and

added their thoughts as they considered how this spiritual

intentional activities toward spiritual growth. They focus on

distinctive plays out at each level:

team building centered on the body of Christ. • Discipline situations are handled biblically. The focus is on

High School:

learning from poor decisions and working toward restoration.

• Faculty know the importance of growing in their walk with

Discipline must involve punishment, but this is not the

the Lord through daily faculty devotions followed by leading

primary focus. Major discipline issues or repetitive issues are

their classes in devotions at the beginning of the school day.

dealt with looking at what Scripture says about the problem.

• The new “Life Calling” class helps students focus on their

• Chapel involves student-led worship. Speakers are from

future from a biblical perspective.

administration, staff, local pastors and youth pastors as well

• There is a spirit of community service by school groups who

as outside speakers. We don’t have a theme, but chapels

truly practice loving their neighbors.

are focused on the teaching of scripture in a practical and applicable way.

• Unity of spirit in school community exists because we pray for one another daily in classes.

• Understanding that God has created each child uniquely with various strengths and learning styles, we attempt to

• Teaching of all classes from a biblical world view which

teach in diverse ways.

conveys that we need not be conformed to this world but transformed by the renewing of the our mind to impact the

Elementary:

world for Christ.

• The faculty is actively growing in their own faith and then

• Discipline procedures strive to reach the heart of the student

sharing that faith with the students. The faculty is keenly

so that behavior issues focus on student development,

aware that they serve as role models to the students.

spiritual growth and discipline in love.

• Classes are taught from a biblical worldview.

• Music and athletic programs teach excellence from a view

• Students focus on the study of God’s Word through Bible

point that our talents are gifts from God, and we are to

classes and weekly chapels.

glorify God through them. Thus sportsmanship is a priority,

• Students in grades four and five are offered a missions

and praising God is our celebration.

elective course. This class, led by Mrs. Letty Lamelas, teaches

• Faculty know that being a role model in their daily walk

students about what missions are, develops a profile of who

before our students is essential.

missionaries are, what they do and how God is using them

• We focus on the study of the Word of God through Bible

locally and globally in the world. The goal is to encourage

classes taught by an outstanding group of Bible teachers as

students to be mission-minded by seeking and selecting a

well as weekly chapels with praise time led by students, and

ministry to serve using their gifts and talents.

messages focusing on spiritual truth.

• The goal of discipline is to reach the student’s heart in hopes

Middle School:

of promoting true spiritual growth.

• We start each day with devotions in the classroom, building

• Students are taught to love their neighbors and to pray for

relationships between teachers and students.

one another daily.

R. P. Robbins January 17, 1922 - November 10, 2011

Reflections from the Headmaster on the Life of R.P. Robbins om School fr Christian 007. 2 Lakeland f o in er rd b a bo board mem from the tirement ins was a ntil his re Mr. Robb u 4 5 9 1 ing in its found

LCS Board of Directors, 1954-2007

If you know just where to look, you can still see them

the time construction was completed. The board passed

… barely. Four dimples in the concrete block wall filled

his motion, and the Lord answered his prayer. During the

and painted countless times over the years. They are all

construction phase, I recall him pouring over the plans for

that remain from the original dedicatory plaque ceremony

the layout of the gym floor of the Schroter Gymnasium. He

in 1962. As an eighth grade student, I can still remember

made changes that made the gym far more useful than it

founding LCS board member R. P. Robbins, screwdriver in

would have been had we followed our original design.

hand, installing the brass plaque into the front wall of the

Mr. R. P. Robbins served on the LCS Board of Directors

newly constructed Lakeland Christian School building. It was

from the founding of the school in 1954 until 2007. He was

a bright, sunny Sunday afternoon, and a new era had begun

the last survivor of a remarkable generation of leaders that

for LCS.

God raised up to birth LCS and to carry it from a fledgling

Mr. Robbins designed those initial buildings in the shop

dream to an institution respected and known throughout

behind his house. We still have those original floor plans.

the country. His godly, humble but passionate commitment

He visited the site almost daily to check on every phase of

to LCS disdained personal attention and always sought to

construction for that first building and for many building

deflect praise to the faithfulness of the Savior. His resignation

projects that followed. He had an eye for design and function

letter to the board in 2007 closed with a P.S., “Please, no

and a vision of what could be in the future.

fancy words, Emeritus or plaque.” I was grateful that, at

He also had a heart for young people. I can recall Mr.

commencement that year, he let us present him with framed

Robbins laughing kindly at my excuse for why I drove the

pictures commemorating his faithful service.

lawn tractor into a tree while trying to mow the schoolyard.

I think it would be safe to say that no one had more

On another occasion, he patiently repaired the water pipe I

“sweat equity” in LCS than Mr. Robbins. He had poured a

sheared creating a unique geyser effect in front of the school.

great deal of himself into LCS. Many founders with far less

My driving skills in 8th grade were awful, but he graciously

invested in an institution drift into a posture of entitlement,

endured as I learned to serve LCS in those formative years!

insisting on their own way when working with a board. I

Many years later, I remember his faith in moving that

saw several occasions when he deferred to the rest of the

the board begin construction on the Blanton Center, t rusting

board and submitted to the direction of the group, even if he

that the Lord would provide the funding to pay for it by

disagreed. He knew it was God’s school, not his.

It should be noted that Mr. Robbins’ own sons never attended LCS. They were older and LCS did not include the grade levels of his sons at the time. That means his entire 54-year tenure on the

Mission Possible

LCS board represented service to the Lord and to the children of

continued from inside front cover

other families and not his own! I find this remarkable and wonder if I would have done the same. It is far too easy to make ministry

heart. He uses the scriptures, public and private

involvement decisions based on “what’s in it for my family and me?”

worship, and prayer as the means of grace to effect

rather than the big picture of advancing God’s kingdom.

heart change. God also uses the combined effort of

When I think of the qualities of Mr. Robbins, I think of his love

parents, church and the Christian school to cultivate

for the Lord that was so obvious when he prayed. I think of his

the heart of worship in the life of a student. Worship

loving devotion to Kate, his wife of almost 70 years. They have been

places us in proper relationship with God and with

through a lot together, and that’s the way they always did it –

one another. If our students lack a heart attuned to

together. Our prayers will continue for Kate and the family in this

the worship of God, they will flounder not only in

time of loss and transition.

their view of God, but also in their understanding of themselves.

I smiled today thinking of the reunion in heaven with a

Is this a “Mission Impossible?” Absolutely not!

generation of board members and wives now known only to this generation at LCS as names on buildings – Ray and Florence Snyder,

We have been blessed with a highly skilled faculty,

Walter and Margaret Sligh, L. J. and Doris Douglass. All served LCS

engaged students, supportive parents, and a great

faithfully; all have children serving at LCS today.

and challenging time in which to embrace a mission

Whenever I think of the legacy that Mr. R. P. Robbins left to all

of eternal significance. These are great days to be

of us at LCS, I think of Hebrews 13:7. “Remember your leaders, who

involved in Christian schooling! Let’s enthusiastically

spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of

accept the mission and see it through for the good of

life and imitate their faith.”

our students and the glory of God.

“No fancy words, Emeritus or plaques” for you Mr. Robbins. Just a word from the Lord, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant. Enter into the joy of the Lord.” (Matthew 25:23)

Left: Dr. Mike Sligh presents Mr. R.P. Robbins with an award during the 2007 commencement ceremony. Right: Mr. Robbins and his wife Kate were frequent visitors to Lakeland Christian School, shown here at Grandparent’s and Grandfriend’s Day in 2010.

LCS Music Department Aims to Advance the Kingdom Through Music By Lorraine Latham The advancement of the Kingdom through music is a primary goal for the LCS music department. We envision our students influencing their churches and communities for Christ through the avenue of music. We provide numerous opportunities through-

The Parents’ Perspective on the Importance of Christian Schooling When asked why they choose to send their children to Lakeland Christian School, here is how a few of our parents responded: • It is an outstanding education accompanied by Christian core values provided by great caring teachers at a great value. We made our final decision to move to Lakeland after our daughter was accepted to LCS. • We value the Christian-based education that instills not only principles and values in our children, but also instructs them on worldviews and how to support their viewpoints … We especially like that prayer is taught and encouraged. Our children have become strong prayer warriors as a result! • LCS is committed to a Christian worldview, which is taught in practically

out their time at LCS to foster and develop

every subject in the school. This truly helps the child understand outside of

their talents. High School students lead

church how their Christian lives permeate every part of life. The teachers

the worship time in the weekly chapel

really care about the students and even pray for them regularly.

services. The high school choir takes every

• Very simple … our children attend LCS because we are confident that those

opportunity to perform for our community

leading and teaching our children share our faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and

from singing at the Rotary Club Christmas

Lord and the desire to live a life that honors Christ and points others to him.

luncheon to singing the National Anthem

While academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities and athletics are

at Tiger Town. Service through music is a

important, the bottom line for us is knowing that those we allow to influence our

great way to bring glory to Christ. Middle

children are partnering with us, not teaching anything contrary to our faith.

school and elementary choirs also perform and minister through music at area nursing homes and churches. Throughout the LCS Choral program, strong emphasis is placed upon the responsibility of C hristian musicians to communicate effectively the truth of the Gospel and the Word through

• We have been at LCS now for 13 years. I am amazed at how well my oldest is prepared for college. The everyday Christian influence is like no other. Today we hear stories of what goes on in the public system, and we are blessed to have the highest level of education and the constant influence of Christian faculty. • I send my daughter to LCS primarily because of the Christian worldview that

the text of each piece that is sung.

permeates all aspects of the school – from academics to arts to sports to

The next generation of church musicians is being trained now.

and administrative staff.

About the Cover: At LCS, students are provided a solid foundation of biblical truth. Whether they are in the classroom, on the playing field, on the stage or out in the community, the mission of LCS is “to e ducate students in the light of God’s word to equip them for a lifetime of learning, leadership, service and worship.” Pictured are middle schoolers Larenz Deshazor, Melanie Abbott, Julia Canady and Will Richert.

administration. I greatly appreciate the Christian character of the teaching

Board of Directors Adopts Mission Statement and Core Values Clarity of mission and an understanding of the core v alues of an institution are essential components of

that are shaped by the gospel is an essential aspect of m aintaining a positive, God-honoring school climate.

sustaining a school’s culture. For the past several months the

Educating the whole child: A variety of rigorous, engaging,

LCS administration, faculty and board have been involved

academic and co-curricular activities are provided to enable

in a strategic planning process. On August 15, 2011, the

students to identify and express the full range of their unique gifts

board of directors formally approved the following mission

and abilities. Educational decisions are made on the basis of what is

statement and core values. It is important to realize that there

best for children. High levels of student participation in the various

was no departure from the historical mission of LCS. The new

activities and programs enrich the school experience for everyone.

language reflects an effort to describe the priorities of the school in t oday’s language with greater precision and clarity. The mission statement is complemented with a listing

Shepherding the heart: The priority in all dealings with students is to lovingly apply the truth of the gospel to the heart. The goal is to encourage the heart of the student to be turned toward

of core values that were identified to be uniquely a part of

the Savior, not merely toward outward conformity. The proper

the LCS school culture. There are certainly other values that

understanding of the character of God and of our s tanding before

would be true in almost every Christian school, but the intent

Him leads us to a response of worship and service. Preparing the

was to be as descriptive as possible of the values that are

student for the road, rather than the road for the student, is an

specific to L akeland Christian School.

essential aspect of this shepherding process. This priority helps

Mission Statement The mission of Lakeland Christian School is to educate students in the light of God’s word to equip them for a lifetime of learning, leadership, service and worship.

Core Values Authority of scripture: The scriptures of the Old and New Testaments are the inerrant and inspired Word of God. All members of the school community function under this authority and strive to apply the truths of scripture in all relationships and activities for the glory of God and the benefit of all. Academic priority: LCS is first and foremost a school. I ntentional consideration is given to the roles of the school, home and church to ensure that the school gives h ighest p riority to those activities most appropriate for the school’s unique sphere of influence. The intellectual

equip the student to be responsible and r esourceful in life. Partnership: Parents and school personnel view one another as valued partners in the shared activity of Christian schooling. Mutual respect, communication and involvement by all partners are essential for success of the mission. Importance of corporate and personal worship: The analogy of the three-legged stool is often used to illustrate the unique roles of the home, the church and the C hristian school in the life of the student and his/her f amily. The scriptures teach that the Christian life is to be lived in community. Active participation in the local church is an essential component in the life of the Christian family that partners with Lakeland Christian School. In addition to this corporate worship, school personnel and parents are expected to give high priority to the personal spiritual disciplines of prayer and the study of the scriptures. Stewardship: Since all we have is ultimately from God, we are committed to responsible use of all financial, physical and human resources.

capacities of our s tudents are developed to enable them to think critically and deeply about both the Creator and the creation. The administration and faculty are committed to the development of instructional plans and programs that effectively address the learning needs of all LCS students. Personal Relationships: All teaching is ultimately relational. Therefore personal r elationships are a high priority at LCS. The intentional cultivation of relationships

Professionalism with humility: Staff members maintain professional credentials and training appropriate for their d uties while modeling a posture of the biblical servant-leader in all relationships. Sound judgment and competence are e xpected at every level of the organization. Excellence: We want to be intentional about doing the right things and doing them right.

Elementary Happenings

A Note to Parents Parents, please don’t forget all of the ways that you can be involved in the Lakeland Christian School family. Here are just a few things designed specifically for all parents at LCS: All Pro Dads

Dads, don’t forget that the All Pro Dads group meets at the South Florida Avenue Chick-fil-A on the third Tuesday of the month at 6:30 a.m. All dads and their children are w elcome to come for a time of food, fun, prizes and activities designed to strengthen family relationships. Parent Resource Center

Did you know that parents are able to check out books from the LCS library? There is a special section of parent resources donated by other parents and teachers. Authors include Dr. James Dobson, Cynthia Tobias, Gary Smalley, Dr. Russell Barkley and many others. Subjects range from mothering to Students had the opportunity to visit Mr. Yeater’s Creation Critter lab where they held snakes and other “critters.”

parenting strong-willed children to dealing with Attention Deficit Disorder

Mr. James Moore, head of the LCS Archery Program, shows students how to hold the bow and arrow.

Consider Donating to the Families in Crisis Scholarship Fund Imagine losing a parent, losing both

enabled LCS students facing these types

helped this year is $7000. We would

parents, or facing an unexpected

of circumstances to continue at LCS.

love to see this need met and additional

family trauma that took away the op-

The stability of remaining with their

funds available to meet f uture needs.

portunity for you to continue at LCS.

friends and t eachers that care has been

Please consider an investment in

Children facing crisis on the home front

critical in helping these children and

the lives of students who need the

need stability in the other areas of their

young people adjust to some very dif-

continued support of LCS. Donations

lives. The last thing they should have

ficult situations.

should be designated for the Families

to deal with is changing schools and

The Families in Crisis Scholarship

leaving the friends and teachers that

Fund has provided a vehicle for school

payable to Lakeland Christian School.

care for them.

families and friends to provide tangible

Donations to the Families in Crisis

assistance to these students in need. The

Scholarship Fund are tax deductible.

For more than ten years, the LCS Families in Crisis Scholarship Fund has

need for the students currently being

in Crisis Scholarship Fund and made

Fifth Grade Makes Annual Trek to Camp Gilead Students dissect owl pellets to see what types of food the owls have been eating.

hen students showed up in Polk City for the 19th annual

fifth grade retreat to Camp Gilead in early October, they

Fifth graders had recreation time in the lake, where they could kayak, swim and more.

differences we all have … even when we follow the same directions we can end up very different from one another.

were greeted by the first cold front of the season, making the

• The Wonders of Creation:

weather a partner in the success of this event. Eighty-four

- Mr. Miller’s wildlife activities

fifth graders and forty-five parents participated in the

- Mr. Yeater’s Creation Critters lab

two-day overnight event.

- Mr. Wiechmann’s owl pellet dissection

This year’s theme was “In everything there is a purpose” and this theme was integrated into the various activities in some way. The devotional was shared by Pastor Jesse Sharpe on Thursday night as he emphasized Ephesians 2:10 (“we are His workmanship”). Sharpe stressed this should be seen in how we live our lives. Mr. Howard Bayless gave a devotional

- Geo-caching the old fashion way: Orienteering with a compass. Parent leaders helped students find their way around the campgrounds to find a “slushie” treasure • Camp Craft: Led by Mrs. Bonnie Mosley, students made a decorative frame for their camp picture. • Archery: Mr. Moore (LCS IT and Archery Coach) and Mr.

on Friday morning, encouraging the students to come up

Boatright (LCS PE teacher) introduced students and parents

with a 5th grader “mission statement” to help them focus on

to the LCS “Archery in the Schools” Program.

God’s big picture. Various activities throughout the two days: • Tie Dye: Students made their own tie dye shirt, learning

• Free time: Boating, kayaking, swimming, putt-putt golf, fishing and our infamous Nite Snipe Hike • The retreat ends each Friday with a picnic meal (this year

about natural and synthetic dyes and fabrics. This activity

provided by 5th grade parent Traci Hughes, owner of

from Mr. Fred Wiechmann’s generation illustrates the

Jimbo’s BBQ)

Fifth graders all made tie-dye shirts for the retreat.

Fifth Graders Skype with Fox News Producer

eally? No way!! The fact that the producer just happens to be

an LCS graduate made it a little easier! As a part of Kids News 5 (new elective class in fifth grade taught by Mrs. Teresa Mullinax and Mrs. Lynne McNutt), Lanna (Daniel) Britt (Class of 2002), gave our television production class a peek into the BIG world of Fox News. She is a producer for Brett Baier’s nightly Special Report. Time and space did not thwart this interview because of the technology we now have on our campus. With the help of a MacBook and a Smartboard, students chatted live with Mrs. Britt who was 900 miles away. Her image was projected onto

Fifth graders used Skype to interview LCS alum Lanna (Daniel) Britt, a producer for Fox News with Brett Baier.

the SMART Board so that all of the students could see and hear her. At one point during the interview, she moved her camera

with the class. Students are learning and practicing the skills of

around the room so everyone could see the conference room in

gathering news on our campus and then reporting it.

Washington, D.C., where she meets with the anchors and other

In addition to Lanna Britt, several other alumni have played

producers of the show. News reporter Shannon Bream came into

large roles in developing this new program. Mrs. Luci O’Byrne, Class

the room and stopped to talk with the students as well. What a

of 1988, is now the Elementary Principal, so she made this elective

great o pportunity for our fledgling news reporters and producers

class possible. Luke Hearn, Class of 2005, is now working in the IT

to talk with seasoned professionals!

department and has helped with the cameras and computers. Mary

Kids News 5 began as a project last year with a small group

Beth Dickerson, Class of 2004, is now finishing her Masters in film in

lead by Mrs. Mullinax. This year, the program is being offered to

Singapore through NYU. She has provided a video camera, tripod and

all fifth graders as an elective, and Mrs. McNutt is now helping

microphone for the class.

Students Donate Boxes for OCC

peration Christmas Child (OCC) is one of the students’

favorite missions projects each fall. Sponsored by Samaritan’s Purse, this project sends shoe boxes of gifts to children all over the world. This year, LCS students contributed a record 264 shoe boxes to the project! First grade teacher Mrs. Kay Henry coordinates the project annually. This year, several students, staff members and parents helped her. Thanks to students Hanley Mosher, Zach Varnum, Charlotte Varnum, Chris Kitchens, Allie Frost, Chloe Mines, Ian and Cole Buurma, Max and Alex Drost and Adam Mines. Special thanks to Karla Mosher, who has helped for the past seven years by going through the boxes to make sure they are ready to ship. Mrs. Henry would also like to thank Danielle Buurma for supervising the elementary students who helped load boxes into the van and to the Varnum family for d onating the use of their family van to transport the shoe boxes. Of the total 264 boxes, elementary students contributed 229 and secondary students turned in 35.

LCS students donated more than 260 shoe boxes for needy children all over the world.

New Chess Club Debuts at LCS Students in the new chess club at LCS are

Lakeland Chess Club, the club involves

in the Polk Scholastic Chess A ssociation

learning one of the oldest and most strategic

students as young as first grade. The novice

tournaments that are held October

games in the world. The game of chess helps

group (Grades 1-4) and the Intermediate

through March of each school year.

develop critical thinking and decision-making

group (Grades 4 and up) meet one day

Coach Williams is preparing the other

skills, as well as good sportsmanship.

each week to practice their chess skills.

students to be ready to compete in the

Led by Mark Williams, a U.S. Chess

This year 23 students are participating.

Federation A-Rated Player, certified Local Level

Currently, two fourth graders – Carter

Tournament Director and the President of the

Ferguson and Christian Herman – compete

2011-2012 tournament season. For more information, contact the Elementary Office.

Wiechmann Works on Making Kids Wonder In his new role as the Science Resource Educator, Mr. Fred Wiechmann is in his element in the Wonder Room. As he works to expand the elementary science curriculum and serve as a resource for teachers, Mr. Wiechmann is taking on special experiments, organizing field trips and developing hands-on activities to enhance the students’ understanding of the world around them. Here are just a few of the things that have taken place so far this year: • K4 classes have activities that are a connection to their letters of the week. • K5 students have weekly classes that focus on things such as ocean activities, hands-on experiences and e-books using SMART Board technology, Insects and Spiders, measurement activities, introduction to magnets, and nature hikes. • First graders have had insect units with ladybugs, crickets and ant research on

campus. The students also did a compass activity for social studies studying NSEW directions. In a plant unit, the students raised a “tickle me plant” and had plant centers led by parents. • Fourth graders have taken a campus hike and done activities when studying ecosystems and a chemistry lab when studying digestion. • Students in 5th grade prepared for their annual retreat by tie-dying shirts in the Wonder Room, practicing their “orienteering” skills and studying third law lab. There has also been a physical science demo of throwing a curve ball demonstrated by high school students.

Kindergarten students use microscopes to study insects in the Wonder Room.

• Discovery Blueberry Patch: Thirteen 5th graders and older Discovery Students are constructing and planting two raised blueberry beds behind the Snyder Building. This project is being funded by an “Agriculture in the Classroom” mini grant. • Odyssey of the Mind team formation has begun. There are two fourth grade teams and three fifth grade teams being formed, along with one middle school team. • There is a 5th grade field trip planned in January to Sweetwater Organic Farms in Hillsborough County, which will be funded by SWFWMD grant. Mr. Fred Wiechmann and several young students use magnifying glasses to study ants.

Elementary Hosts Sixth Annual Grandparents’ Day grandparents. Headmaster Dr. Mike Sligh

their classrooms, work on special projects

special grand-friends came from across

and Director of Advancement Steve Wilson

and perform special songs and activities

town and throughout the country to

welcomed the guests and shared about

for their grandparents.

visit their grandchildren for the sixth

Lakeland Christian. Mrs. Julie Boyd, the Vice

annual Grandparent’s Day celebration.

President of Development at the Florida Baptist

The LCS campus welcomed these guests

Children’s Home, performed a humorous

on a beautiful November morning.

ventriloquist act with her friend BC Homes.

pproximately 500 grandparents and

This annual event is a favorite Special thanks to the planning team of Randy Blalock, Danease Horne, Lizette Batterton, Nicky McDonald, Heather

After the program, the grandparents

The event began with a special

among LCS students in grades K4-5.

program in the cafeteria, where a

and friends had the opportunity to visit their

Averitt, Payton Albritton, Candy Gordon

choir of second grade students in Mrs.

grandchildren’s classrooms. The kids were able

and the host of parent volunteers who

Trudi Sligh’s class entertained the

to introduce their teachers and friends, show off

helped make the event a success!

The young students were excited to show their grandparents and grand-friends their classrooms, as well as pose for photos with them.

New Years Resolution: Matthew Buchy 10th Grader

Todd Radford Advanced Associate, Varsity Boys’ Basketball Coach

Karen Latimer Kindergarten Teacher

Kristen Schaedel 8th Grader

Lydia Kinney School Nurse

After a short program, grandparents visited students in the classrooms.

Christmas Break: Do you travel or stay home?

Julie Boyd and her friend BC Homes entertained the grandparents.

Favorite Christmas Movie:

White lights or colored lights?

How many Christmas gifts will you give this year?

At Starbucks, I usually order...

Be more responsible

Stay home

Elf

Colored lights

10-15

Frappuccino

Win more games than we lose

Stay home

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

White

Coffee with French vanilla creamer

Haven’t thought of one yet

Travel to Mississippi

How the Grinch Stole Christmas

White

Make a three pointer in a basketball game

Travel to Tallahassee

How the Grinch Stole Christmas

Colored

To run

Stay home, except a trip to the Disney campground

National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation

YOUR TURN

White

25-30

Strawberry Frappuccino

Double Chocolate Chip Frappuccino

30 people/60 gifts

Pumpkin Spice Latte

LCS Students Chosen for All-County Chorus Eighteen LCS students were chosen to participate in the 2011 Polk All-County Choruses held on November 14-15 at Florida Southern College. These students were chosen by vocal audition and participated in performance with approximately 300 students chosen from Polk

Both secondary and elementary musicians participated in the annual Ridge Music Teachers’ Multiple Piano Festival.

County schools under the direction of master choral clinicians. The students receiving this honor were: High School Mixed Chorus: Amanda Carl, Emily Carl, Christopher Greene, Katie Greene, Mixon Holmes; Junior High Mixed Chorus: Julia Canady, Kara Stacy, Vaviel Verner; 6th Grade Treble Chorus: Kylie Beaudreault, Brooke Hammack, Katie Hannum, Victoria Kelley, Taylor Langley, Ashlyn Love, Juliana Miller, Hannah Mowrer, Maddie Richert, Anna Roth

Senior Band Student Selected to March in Macy’s Parade Cameron Underwood, a senior at

Piano Festival on Saturday, November 12, at Lakeland Christian School: Lauren Cardosi, Rachel Chapman,

to participate in the 2011 Macy’s Great

Rebecca C hapman, AbiGrace Davis, Zenna Franco,

American Marching Band as one of

Amielle Ingalla, Courtney Miles, Hannah Miller, Emma

the select number of students from

Petcoff, Stephanie Powers, Abby Simpson, Kara Stacy,

Florida. The band celebrated the 85th Day Parade and took an honor position in the parade on November 24, 2011. Students were selected based on their

Congratulations to the following students who participated in the Ridge Music Teachers’ Multiple

Lakeland Christian School, was selected

anniversary of the Macy’s Thanksgiving

LCS Pianists Participate in Annual Festival

Vaviel Verner and Jakob Witty. Senior Cameron Underwood, shown here with LCS Band Director Chuck Fulton, was selected to perform with the 2011 Macy’s Great American Marching Band.

musical ability and past achievements. The opportunity was open to s tudents from more than 14,000 high schools across the United States. Stepping off from Central Park, the band was cheered by 3.5 million live spectators, before arriving at Macy’s flagship store for their national p erformance for more than 50 million TV viewers watching the broadcast live on NBC. The students had the chance to participate in this prestigious band with more than 200 students representing every state. The musicians, under the direction of Dr. Richard Good, Auburn University; and Ohio State University’s Dr. Jon Woods, was complemented by approximately 50 flags and dancers choreographed by Greg Lagola of the famed Cadets Drum

Students played their pieces as an ensemble directed by Brandon Fung, husband of our own piano teacher/choir accompanist, Christy Fung. It was a great experience for young pianists to learn to play together as a team and watch a director. This will later prepare them for positions as accompanists for church work or soloists, etc. Upper level students were assigned to be partners with the younger students. They formed new friendships and served as mentors to these budding pianists. There were a total of 55 students participating in the festival. The LCS pianists were joined by students from other local Polk County private teachers in the association.

Corp and WGI Sport of the Arts Marketing Manager Bart Woodley. The students also had the opportunity to attend a motivational seminar led by Fran Kick. Kick is an author, educational consultant and professional speaker who knows What Makes Kids KICK! He is the creator and presenter of KICK IT IN® a series of self-motivational personal leadership presentations and materials. In addition to marching in the parade, all selected participants’ package plans included meals, lodging and New York City sightseeing (WTC Tribute Center, Top of the Rock, Thanksgiving dinner/dance and Broadway show).

Mrs. Lorraine Latham works with two of her pianists to prepare for the Piano Festival.

LCS Golf Tournament Celebrates 20th Anniversary Four members of the Class of

2011 were named AP Scholars with Distinction.

Garrett Dodd

Angela Douglas

Carrie Kirby

Justin Middleton

Eighteen Earn AP Scholar Awards Thirteen graduates and three s eniors from LCS have earned AP Scholar Awards at Lakeland Christian School in recognition of their exceptional achievement on AP Exams. The College Board’s Advance Placement Program® (AP®) provides willing and academically prepared students with the opportunity to take rigorous college-level courses while still in high school and to earn college credit, advanced placement or both for s uccessful performance on the AP Exams. About 18 percent of the more than 1.8 million students worldwide who took AP Exams

performed at a sufficiently high level to also earn an AP Scholar Award. Four students qualified for the AP Scholar with Distinction Award by earning an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on five or more of these exams. These s tudents are G arrett Dodd, Angela Douglas, Carrie Kirby and Justin Middleton. One student – Michelle Jackson – qualified for the AP Scholar with Honor Award by earning an average score of at least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken and scores of 3 or higher on four or more of these exams.

Atkinson Chosen for Girls’ State LCS senior Ciara Atkinson was selected to attend the American Legion Auxiliary Girls State program at Florida State University and the state capitol this past July. Senior Ciara Atkinson One of only two that attended the Girls’ State Program this past summer. were chosen to attend from the local American Legion post, Ciara was selected based on school recommendation, scholastic ability and a p ersonal interview process from several women members of the American Legion Auxiliary. She had the opportunity to study local, county and state government processes in this n on-partisan mock government. Since 1938, the Girls State p rogram has attempted to instill the youth of America a love of God and country and to stimulate a desire to protect the privileges and responsibilities of our democratic form of g overnment.

Thirteen students qualified for the AP Scholar Award by completing three or more AP Exams with scores of 3 or higher. The AP Scholars are Taylor Allegood, Blake Averitt, Erica Baker, Stephanie Baker, Emily Bolter, Nikki Chmura, Claire Jarvis, Courtney Madden, Zachary Martinez, T. Buddy Miller, Luis Sierra, Emily Tan and Zoe Wilson. Of this year’s award recipients at LCS, three were juniors at the time of the test: Erica Baker, Claire Jarvis and Zachary Martinez. These students have another year in which to complete college-level work and possibly earn a higher-level AP Scholar Award.

Southeastern Professor Visits High School English On September 8, Timothy Kirk, professor of English Literature at Southeastern University, presented a dramatic reading of Jonathan Edwards’ laudable sermon, “Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God” to Mrs. Melissa Henson’s 11th grade American Literature class. Students pre-read the sermon to gain understanding and focus on Edwards’ figurative language used to persuade his congregation to have faith in God. The dramatic reading of the sermon allowed students to hear the emphasized points Edwards made to his congregation to give them perspective on their sin and need of repentance and acceptance of Jesus. After the reading and discussion led by Professor Kirk, the students gained a better perspective of colonial literature, the Puritan ideal. Professor Timothy Kirk presented Jonathan Edwards’ famous sermon to Mrs. Henson’s junior English class.

Leadership Rocks Conference Challenges Students

By the Eighth Grade Leadership Class

speaker was author, Christian theologian

questions, seek Biblically sound answers

REALLY true? Why? Have you ever

and apologist, Dr. Josh McDowell.

and be able to communicate those beliefs

considered these questions? Several LCS

He challenged the participants to ask

with confidence, passion and clarity.

Is lying REALLY wrong? Is the Bible

high school students along with the 8th grade Teen Leadership Class were asked to consider these issues and many others at this year’s Leadership Rocks Conference in Orlando, FL. This one-day event focused on how to think, dream and lead as a Christ-centered leader.

Mr. Keith Overholt, Mr. Darren Copeland and Mr. Rob Beaudreault had the opportunity to meet Dr. Josh McDowell

The master of ceremonies was

at the Leadership Rocks

Brent Crowe, a well-known author,

conference.

speaker and Vice President of Student Leadership University. The keynote

Students Participate in Summer SLU Training

or the past several years

Olivia Wiles and Andrew

LCS has been partnering

Williams. The group was

with Student Leadership

led by Mr. Keith Overholt,

University (SLU) to provide

Mr. Rob B eaudreault, Miss

leadership training for many

Jenny Boulet, Mr. Greg Toy,

of our students. This summer

Mrs. Donna Toy and Mr.

more than 65 students

Carlos Martinez.

participated in two levels

The second level of

of training.

leadership training takes

The first level of

place in Washington D.C.

training takes place in Orlando and focuses on

Here the students look at Students in the SLU 201 program visited Washington, D.C. this past summer.

preparing to be a leader

leaders throughout history and learn valuable leadership

from within. You can’t lead other p eople in the right direction

lessons that they can apply to the future. S tudents get to interact

if you’re not ready to lead. The students had a great time

with many present leaders in W ashington D.C. such as Reverend

interacting with each other and learning leadership lessons at

Barry Black, Chaplain of the U.S. Senate.

places like Universal Studios and Sea World.

SLU 201 students included Alex Babcock-Latta, Scott

The SLU 101 students included Skye Allen, Sydney Collins,

Benton, Shane Buchanan, Caroline Cleghorn, Hannah Duncan,

Blake Crosby, Paxton Evans, Amanda Folk, Gage Frier, Megan

Spookie Eaves, Kyle Hulbert, Byron Kelley, Sarah Kettelkamp,

Gordon, Sarah Hall, Matthew Henderson, Alex Holmes, Zoe

Marcus Mancini, Caleb McDonald, Meredith Munson, Jonathan

Holmquist, Joey Hungerford, Bryon Kelley, Sarah Kettlekamp,

Murray, Carter Overholt, Stephanie Powers, Kaylyn Sizemore,

Jake Kinney, Melissa Lamelas, Mary Lanzino, Kendra Lehner,

Ocean Walters-Carlson, Brooks Wilsman and Brooks Wilson.

Roman Mancini, Joshua Martinez, Patrick McDaniel, Kaylee

The group was led by Mr. Keith Overholt, along with Mr. and

Mills, Sam Moseley, Kayla Mudger, Jonathan Murray, Chase

Mrs. Glen Duncan.

Naughton, Mara Parks, Kendal Plunkett, Madison Sabat, Katie

A highlight of this year’s trip was a wreath-laying ceremony

Saunders, Tucker Scruggs, Katie Smith, Vail Strazzulla, Connor

at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier where LCS student Hannah

Sutton, James Toy,

Duncan was chosen to have the honor of laying the wreath.

Student Archers Compete in World Tournament

fter a strong showing at the National Archery in Schools Program

(NASP) National Tournament in Kentucky this past May, the LCS Archery Team was invited to attend the NASP World Competition held in October at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando. The 17-member team, coached by James and Barb Moore and Sue Wilsman, tallied 3,015 points and a 13th place finish in the NASP World High School Division. Jessie Andrews was the top shooter on the LCS team with a score of 276 points (including 15 bulls-eyes). Garrison Hodge finished with a score of 269 (14 bulls-eyes), and Makaylee Graves tallied 262 points (10 bulls-eyes). Congratulations to the LCS team members: Jessie Andrews, Garrison Hodge, Makaylee Graves, Ryan Harper, Brooke Wilsman, Alex Babcock-Latta, Ethan Brannon, Cole Radford, Jake Albritton, Kyle Hulbert, Matthew Henderson, Austin Berges, Sydney White, Danae Drake, Courtney Wells, Andrew Tew and Ben Richardson. Top: LCS middle schooler Jake Albritton prepares to take a shot. Left: The LCS Archery Team competed in the NASP World Tournament.

Uria, Smithson Named 2011 Homecoming King and Queen

n Friday, September 30, seniors Craig Uria and Jenna Smithson were chosen by their

peers as this year’s Homecoming King and Queen. Juniors Phil Wilsman and Kirsti Mutz won the titles of prince and princess. The crowning of the royalty on Friday evening and the “Southern Nights” themed banquet on Saturday night marked the conclusion of another exciting Spirit Week and Homecoming celebration. Last year’s king and queen, Brent Adriano and Emily Tan, both made the trip back to Viking Stadium to pass on their titles to the deserving candidates. Other Homecoming representatives were Reid Reynolds and Jamie Shofner (freshmen), Ocean Walters-Carlson and Brooks Wilsman (sophomores), Patrick Lucas and Stephanie Powers (juniors), Andrew Williams and Courtney Miles (juniors), Mark Mutz and Emily Behrens (seniors), Mitch Devore and Caitlin Robb (seniors), Daniel Firmin and Nicky Aspinwall (seniors), and Zach Varnum and Cailey Bates (seniors). At the Homecoming banquet, high school students arrived to a tastefully decorated cafeteria full of Southern charm where they enjoyed a Singing Bee-style competition and snacks. The evening concluded with the introduction of the new homecoming royalty. Top right: Seniors Craig Uria and Jenna Smithson were chosen by their peers as this year’s LCS Homecoming king and queen. Bottom right: Juniors Phil Wilsman and Kirsti Mutz were named this year’s Homecoming prince and princess.

Alumni News 2000s Kimberly Ebersole (’07) and Danny Infield were married September 17, 2011, and reside in Duluth, Georgia. Joshua (‘03) and Greta (DeLange, ‘04) Friend, along with daughter Corrianne (now 2) welcomed Amelia Grace to their family, March 14, 2011. She weighed 8 lbs., 10 oz. and was 20 inches long. The Friend family resides in Crestview, Florida.

Note to Alumni Parents: If your former student no longer lives in your home but still receives mail from Lakeland Christian at your address, please e-mail Claudia Powell at cpowell@lcsonline.org to update their alumni information.

Robyn Radford Pospichal (‘03) and husband Eric welcomed their daughter, A llison Marie, into the family on October 12, 2011. She weighted 6 lbs., 10 oz. and was 19 inches long, with a head full of curly dark brown hair. Chuck Anderson (‘02) graduated on December 9, 2011, with a Master of Divinity (MDiv) from the School of Theology at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. Chuck will return to Lakeland after graduation.

Corrianne and Amelia Grace Friend

1990s Minda Walls Henry (’99), husband Dustin and son Fischer Travis (now 3½) w elcomed Owen William to their family on November 26, 2010. The Henry family resides in Wichita Falls, Texas.

Christopher Sweet (’96) and wife Kristen welcomed their adorable adopted daughter, Lindy Noelle, to their family on April 28, 2011. The Sweet family resides in Birmingham, Alabama. Allison Marie Pospichal We love to hear from you. News about you is important to us and to your former classmates. Please e-mail Claudia Powell at c powell@lcsonline.org. Planning your class reunion? Contact Director of Community Relations Julie Rice, at 863-688-2771, ext. 236, and she will arrange for use of facilities and will offer other helpful tips.

Classes Reunite for Major Milestones Fischer Travis and Owen William Henry

The Class of 1986 gathers to celebrate their 25th high school reunion.

Members of the

Class of 1991 marked their 20th reunion this past summer.

Christopher Sweet and Lindy Noelle

1919

Vikings Athletes Compete Well, Finish Strong Across Polk County, Central Florida and throughout the State, the Viking athletic program is consistently

recognized for being strong competition year after year. The 2011 fall sports season was no different

as old records were replaced with new ones, District trophies were collected and athletes competed

at the State level. Here is a brief recap of the fall sports season:

Cross Country • At the City meet, the girls’ varsity

while the boys’ team finished in 3rd

cross-country team finished 1st place,

place. Mutz won the boys’ race with

and the boys’ team finished in 6th place.

a time of 16:33, while White won the

The girls were led by Mallory White, who

girls’ title in 20:01. Eaves finished in

won the City meet with a time of 20:16.

2nd place.

Spookie Eaves took 2nd place in 21:09.

• Mutz finished in 2nd place at the

For the boys’ team, senior Mark Mutz won

Regional meet on November 10 with a

the individual title with a time of 16:45.

time of 15:50. White and Eaves finished

• At the slow and soggy Polk County

in 4th and 5th places respectively.

Cross Country Championships on

• At the State meet at Little Everglades

October 29, White and Mutz claimed the

Ranch in Dade City, senior Mark Mutz

individual titles once again. Mutz ran

claimed a 4th place finish with a

the course in 16:17. White finished in a

5K time of 15:58.46. His time marked

time of 20:34, just seven seconds ahead

the highest among all Polk County

of teammate Eaves, who claimed 2nd

runners at the State meet. Teammates

place at the meet. The girls’ team won

Mallory White led the Viking girls’

the Polk County meet, and the boys’

team with an individual 22nd place

team finished in 8th place.

finish. The girls’ team finished in

• At the Class 1A, District 9 meet, the

Junior Mallory White and senior Spookie Eaves, longtime friends and teammates, had a strong season. Mallory claimed first place and Spookie finished second at the City, County and District cross country meets.

11th place.

Senior Mark Mutz dominated Class 1A cross country this season, winning the City, County and District meets before claiming a 4th place finish at the State meet in November.

Lady Vikings again claimed 1st place,

Golf • The girls’ golf team finished their season with a

• The boys’ varsity golf team earned several 1st place

3rd place District finish. Eighth grader Savannah

finishes this season, with wins over schools such as

Collier had a team best of 107, which included a

Santa Fe, Tenoroc, Avon Park, All Saints, Fort Meade

birdie on the 8th hole of River Greens Golf Course in

and Frostproof. The team finished 3rd in the District

Avon Park. Ashlynn Joyner shot a 109. Anna Lanzino

tournament with a team score of 341. Blake Crosby

had a 113, and Katie Morrow finished with a 124.

and Trent Harris led the Vikings, each with a score of 83. Senior Jordan Green finished with an 87.

Eighth grader Savannah Collier had a team best 107 at the District meet.

Volleyball • The Viking varsity volleyball team

• The JV volleyball team finished with

• Both middle school teams (A and B)

finished the season with a record of 16-10.

a record of five wins and 10 losses.

had strong seasons as each finished with a record of 9-3.

• After defeating Fort Meade in the District semifinal game, the Lady Vikes dropped a heartbreaking District final game to McKeel Academy, taking it to five sets before losing 15-7 in the final tie-breaking set.

• The District loss to McKeel snapped a six-season District championship win streak.

The Viking varsity volleyball team was led by seniors Meagan Palm, Ciara Atkinson, Alison Sizemore, Emily Behrens, Ashley Abbott, Molly Rice and Lacie Aldridge.

Swim/Dive • The girls’ swim team earned a 2nd place finish and the boys’ team a 3rd place finish at the Lakeland City meet on October 6.

• At the county meet, the girls’ swim team once again took a 2nd place finish, while the boys’ team finished in 9th place. Senior Mitch Devore claimed a 2nd place individual finish in the dive competition with 221.65 points.

• After a concussion forced him to sit out of the 2010 District meet, Devore won this year’s District diving title with 422.70 points – 43.10 points ahead of the 2nd place finisher. Stephen Mutz finished in 7th place in the District diving competition.

• Both the boys’ and girls’ teams earned a 3d place District finish. Chloe Wineiger led the Vikings with a 1st place finish in the 100 fly and a 2nd place finish in the 200 individual medley.

• Devore represented LCS at the State swim meet at the YMCA Aquatic Center in Orlando on November 11, where he placed 14th with 349.75 points.

Senior Mitch Devore finished 14th in the State dive meet.

nder the direction of new head coach Wayne Peace, the

Viking Varsity football team opened up the season with a 38-15 win over Calvary Christian in the annual Kick Off Classic in Viking Stadium. The Vikes started off the regular season play with a 49-35 win over Bradenton Christian School. Freshman quarterback Christian Alexander threw for 255 yards and four touchdowns – just in the first half. Senior Michael Wheary had three touchdown catches of the game. Freshman T.J. Simmons ran for two touchdowns, including one for 48 yards. After falling to Clearwater Central Catholic (20-6) and Evangelical Christian (54-28), the Vikings won two straight at home, easily handling Bishop McLaughlin Catholic (48-14) and John Carroll Catholic (41-3). A hard-fought 41-35 victory over Frostproof High School on

New head coach Wayne Peace led the Vikings in a record-breaking season.

November 4 forced a three-way District tie-breaker between LCS, Frostproof and Cardinal Mooney on Monday, November 7. Ending the Vikings’ hope of playing in their first District tournament, Frostproof came out on top of this one-quarter

Most yards passing in a game: Alexander, 255

tie-breaker game over the Vikings by the score of 6-0.

Most yards passing in a season: Alexander, 1,633

Most touchdown passes thrown in a season:

The Vikings ended their regular season with a record of 7-4 with a big 46-30 win over local rival Santa Fe Catholic. Freshman running back T.J. Simmons ran for six Viking touchdowns and

Alexander, 20

tallied 135 rushing yards for the game. Senior Michael Wheary

tallied 145 passing yards with one touchdown.

• Many records were broken this season:

Most 100-yard games passing in a season: Alexander, 8

Most touchdown passes thrown in a career: Alexander, 25

Most receptions in a game: Wheary, 12

Most 100-yard games passing in a career: Alexander, 11

Most receptions in a season: Wheary, 41

Most rushing touchdowns in a game: Simmons, 6

Most touchdown passes caught in a season: Wheary, 15

Most rushing touchdowns in a season: Simmons, 20

Most touchdown passes caught in a career: Wheary, 15

Most rushing yards in a season: Simmons, 1,487

Most 100-yard games receiving in a season: Wheary, 5

Most 100-yard games rushing in a season: Simmons, 8

Most 100-yard games receiving in a career: Wheary, 5

Highest punting average for a season: Thomas, 38.6

Most receiving yards in a game: Wheary, 190

Most receiving yards in a season: Wheary, 970

Most passes completed in a game: Alexander, 15

Most passes completed in a season: Alexander, 88

• The middle school football team finished the season with a record of 3-4.

Freshman T.J. Simmons broke the school record for most touchdowns in a game (6) and season (20). Photo by Wayne Koehler

Freshman quarterback Christian Alexander broke several Viking records this season. Photo by Wayne Koehler

FACA Names Football Awards Winners The Florida Athletic Coaches Association has named the 2011 Small-School Selections, and several LCS players were honored. Congratulations to the following student athletes on earning this distinction:

First Team Offense: T.J. Simmons

Senior Michael Wheary caught 15 Viking touchdown passes this season. Photo by Wayne Koehler

Michael Wheary Ryan Collier

First Team Defense: Caleb Thomas

Gifts

T O

L akeland

C hristian

S chool

On behalf of the students we serve, a heartfelt thanks to the following generous persons and companies who have partnered with LCS by providing a gift to the ministry. We were blessed by: Dr. and Mrs. Phillip Abbott Mr. and Mrs. Tom Abramson Dr. and Mrs. Ruben Adriano Mr. and Mrs. Keith Albritton Mrs. Elizabeth Allen Mr. and Mrs. David Andersen Mr. and Mrs. Dave Aplin Mr. and Mrs. Walter Arnold, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Atkinson Mr. and Mrs. Robert Averitt, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Philip Bagwell Dr. and Mrs. Robert Baskin Mr. and Mrs. Howard Bayless Mrs. Thomas Bayless Mr. and Mrs. Andy Bean Mr. and Mrs. Robert Beasley, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Beaudreault Mr. and Mrs. Donald Bellar Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Blalock Mr. and Mrs. Jim Boatwright Mr. and Mrs. Jim Booth Mr. and Mrs. Damion Boyce Mr. and Mrs. Donald Bradley Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Brannen Mrs. Mary Ann Breathit Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Brown Dr. and Mrs. Kevin Browne Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bryant Mr. and Mrs. Don Busing Mr. and Mrs. Mark Cabrera Mr. and Mrs. Bill Campbell Dr. and Dr. Richard Cardosi Mr. and Mrs. Brian Carroll Mr. and Mrs. Bill Chamberlin Mr. and Mrs. James Chism Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Cline Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Coleman Mr. and Mrs. Ron Copeland Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Crawford Ms. Claudia Crespo Mrs. Brigette Croce Mrs. Jackie Davis Rev. and Mrs. Monty Davis Mr. and Mrs. Ron Denney Mr. and Mrs. Joseph DiCesare Mrs. Barbara Edds Mr. and Mrs. David Edwards Miss Susan Ellis Rev. and Mrs. Roger Evans Ms. Marne Fauber Mrs. Denise Fie Mrs. Nancy Fisher Mr. and Mrs. Bob Forlaw Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Frost Mr. and Mrs. Warren Fuller

Mr. and Mrs. Charles Fulton Mr. and Mrs. Louis Garrard Mr. and Mrs. Bud Gibson Mr. and Mrs. Guillermo Gonzalez-Torres Mr. and Mrs. Clint Gordon Ms. Ann Grassfield Dr. and Mrs. Graham Greene Mr. and Mrs. Richard Greene Mr. and Mrs. Angelo Hall Mr. and Mrs. James Hall Ms. Patsy Ham Mrs. Catherine Hamilton Mr. and Mrs. Rob Harper, IV Ms. Barbara Hart Ms. Terri Heacox Mr. and Mrs. Holland Henderson Mr. and Mrs. Terry Henderson Mr. and Mrs. Rex Henry Mrs. Robert Hightower Mr. and Mrs. Keith Hodge Mr. and Mrs. Ed Hollway Mr. and Mrs. Boyce Horne Mrs. Debbie Houghton Mr. and Mrs. Gordon Howe Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Huckery Mr. and Mrs. Mark Hulbert Rev. and Mrs. Gary Hull Mr. and Mrs. LaMar Hunt Mrs. Mimi Jenko Mr. and Mrs. Daryl Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Jones Mrs. Carolyn Justus Dr. and Mrs. Derek Keenan Ms. Tracy Kelley Mr. and Mrs. Robert Kettlekamp Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kirby Mr. and Mrs. Curt Kitchens Mr. and Mrs. Ray Kriegbaum Dr. and Mrs. Donald Langley Mr. and Mrs. Scott Langston Rev. and Mrs. Michael Latham Mr. and Mrs. Robert Latimer Mr. and Mrs. Joel Love, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Macey Mr. and Mrs. Robert Madden Mr. and Mrs. George Maguire Mr. and Mrs. Alan Mancini Dr. and Mrs. Daniel Marichal Mr. and Mrs. B.J. Mason Mr. and Mrs. Richard Mason Mr. and Mrs. Todd Maxwell Mr. and Mrs. Mike McCormick Dr. and Mrs. Gary McDaniel

Mr. and Mrs. Tom McLaughlin Mr. and Mrs. Gary Mehler Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Merchant Mr. and Mrs. William Middleton Mr. and Mrs. Corey Miller Mr. and Mrs. David Miller Dr. and Mrs. Mark Mines Mrs. Norma Moore Mr. and Mrs. Edward Mora, Jr. Mrs. Bonnie Mosley Mr. and Mrs. Eric Mowrer Mr. and Mrs. Birk Mullinax Rev. and Mrs. Edward Murphy Mrs. Bennie Jo Murray Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Murray Mr. and Mrs. Mike Musick, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Bill Mutz Mr. and Mrs. O.U. Mutz Mr. and Mrs. Robert Myhrer Mr. and Mrs. Alan Naughton Mr. and Mrs. Chris O’Byrne Miss Ellen Oncu Mrs. Judy Oncu Mr. and Mrs. Lee Patteson Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Peace Mr. and Mrs. Cory Petcoff Mr. and Mrs. Ray Phillips Mrs. Marlene Pitts Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Portlock Mr. and Mrs. Robert Powell, Jr. Ms. Angela Register Mr. and Mrs. Buddy Register Mr. and Mrs. Bart Richert Mr. Donald Richert Mr. and Mrs. Brad Rideout Mr. and Mrs. James Roberson Rev. and Mrs. Robert Roberts Mr. and Mrs. Tom Rocker Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Rowe Mr. and Mrs. Dale Russell Mr. and Mrs. Harold Sale Mr. and Mrs. Gary Sawyer Mr. Philip Sebring Mr. and Mrs. Bud Serletic Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Shaw Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Shimko Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Singler Dr. and Mrs. Mike Sligh Dr. and Mrs. Stephen Sligh Miss Nancy Snyder Mr. and Mrs. Joseph St. John Mr. and Mrs. Geoff Stabler Mr. and Mrs. Michael Stacy Mr. and Mrs. Tom Standifer Mr. and Mrs. Bill Stinson

Mrs. John W. Stone Dr. and Mrs. Paul Suich Mr. and Mrs. Michael Sutton Mr. and Mrs. John Szydlowski Mr. and Mrs. Ed Tatlian Mr. and Mrs. Eric Torres Mrs. Evelyn Towler Dr. and Mrs. John Tucker Mr. and Mrs. Antony Turbeville Mr. and Mrs. Jim Turlington Mr. and Mrs. Conrad Varnum Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Wasilewski Mr. and Mrs. Donny Watson Mr. and Mrs. Ernie White Mr. and Mrs. David Wickenkamp Mr. and Mrs. Fred Wiechmann Mr. and Mrs. Jim Wilbanks Mr. and Mrs. James Williams Mr. and Mrs. Mike Wilson Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Wilson Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Wright Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Wright Mr. Lindsey Yates Mr. and Mrs. Randy Young Dr. and Mrs. David Yrastorza Mr. and Mrs. John Zeckler Burnetti Children’s Foundation, Inc. Harrell’s Fertilizer Group, Inc. The Estate of Mr. Thomas Givan LarsonAllen, LLP Live the Life Ministries Murray Equipment Sales, Inc. Northwestern Mutual Financial Network Outsource Management Solutions Publix Super Markets Charities, Inc. Sligh Clinic of Chiropractic United Way of Tri-County, Inc. Wall-Foss Financial

Give to LCS Through Payroll Deduction Did you know that you can donate to Lakeland Christian School through your company’s payroll deduction program? If you would like to know how, please contact the LCS Advancement Office at 863-688-2771.

Living Memorials I n memory of: Mr. Rich McDonald Given by: Bank of Central Florida Mr. and Mrs. Robert Beasley, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Paul Blalock Mr. and Mrs. Jim Booth Ms. Sharon Bradley Mrs. Lynn Branham Mr. and Mrs. James Byrd Carr’s Hill Baptist Church Dr. and Mrs. Alex Cayon Conibear RV Center Mr. and Mrs. Ray Douthit Esquire Beauty, Inc. Farnsworth & Mullins, PA CPA First Baptist Church at the Mall Mr. and Mrs. Rob Harper, IV Mr. and Mrs. Winfred Harrell Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Herring Mr. and Mrs. Franklin Howell Mr. and Mrs. Frank Howes Mrs. Carolyn Justus Mr. David Justus Mr. Bill Justus

It is a joy to receive gifts that are sent to acknowledge a loved one. We are grateful for the gifts received from the following: Ms. Diane Klages Land South Group Mr. and Mrs. Otto Lehman Mr. and Mrs. Robert Leroy Mr. and Mrs. Tommy McDonald Rev. and Mrs. Edward Murphy Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Murray Mr. and Mrs. Bill Mutz Oakbridge Owners Association #2 Ms. Angela Register Rev. and Mrs. Robert Roberts Mr. and Mrs. Francis Savage Mr. Fritz Simonecht Dr. and Mrs. Mike Sligh Mr. and Mrs. Robert Spigner Mr. and Mrs. James Strike Rev. and Mrs. Jay Strike Mr. and Mrs. Antony Turbeville Mr. and Mrs. Fred Wiechmann Mr. Lindsey Yates Summit Consulting – Audit Department Vector Real Estate Group, LLC

LCS Appreciates

In memory of: Mrs. Dot Crum Given by: Mr. and Mrs. George Maguire I n memory of: Mr. Calvin Ellis Given by: Miss Susan Ellis I n memory of: Mr. Doug Green Given by: Mr. and Mrs. John Douglass Mr. and Mrs. Angelo Hall Ms. Diane Klages Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Knowlton I n memory of: Mr. Mike Elliott Given by: Ms. Diane Klages I n memory of: Mr. Vince Strawbridge Given by: Mr. and Mrs. John Douglass I n memory of: Mr. Elmer “Bud” Weaver Given by: Mr. and Mrs. John Douglass I n memory of: Mrs. Kathy Asbridge Given by: Ms. Barbara Hart Mr. and Mrs. Robert Madden Dr. and Mrs. Daniel Marichal Dr. and Mrs. Jose Marichal Mr. and Mrs. Mike McCormick Mr. and Mrs. Don Pike In honor of: Ms. Sharon Miller Given by: Ms. Barbara Hart

Lakeland Christian School is the b eneficiary of many donated goods and services provided by school families and other friends. These gifts e nable higher levels of e xcellence campus-wide. Mrs. Robbie Emert – For the donation of books, including a chemistry textbook and SAT prep book. Mrs. Shari Bradley – For the donation of artificial flowers and ribbons to the elementary art program. Brad and Melissa Murray – For the donation of “Make Music to the Lord” t-shirts to the LCS Music Department. Publix Supermarket Charities – For the donation of office supplies. Rita Fandrich – For the donation of music books. Jane Davis – For the donation of musical instruments and other miscellaneous items including clip art books and supplies for the elementary art class. Nathan Hesseltine – For the donation of sticky notes, hand wipes and other office supplies. Trudy (Carder) Marvel – For the donation of used business machines. Donald and Patricia Haggerty – For the donation of 10 chess sets with pieces, boards and bags.

I n memory of: Cooper Naughton Given by: Mr. and Mrs. Larry Naughton

I n memory of: Brad Hicks Given by: Mr. and Mrs. Blake Moulton I n memory of: Mr. Herbert Peaslee Given by: Mrs. Robert Hightower

Library Donations The Lakeland Christian Library staff appreciates the generosity of those who have provided recent book donations. The library counts on the regular contributions of school families to expand their collection for students. Mr. and Mrs. James Aspinwall Bryce Bagwell Logan Barrand Mr. and Mrs. Troy Batterton AbiGrace and Josh Davis Mr. and Mrs. Brian Crosby Mr. and Mrs. Michael Lain

The Lanzino-Jones Family Mr.and Mrs. Gary LaPorte Mr. and Mrs. Steve Livesay Mr. and Mrs. Brian Rodocker Mr. and Mrs. Fred Salmon Mr. and Mrs. John Szydlowski

1111 Forest Park Street • Lakeland, Florida 33803 • 863-688-2771 • www.lcsonline.org Non-Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Lakeland, FL Permit No. 133

The Viking is published quarterly by Lakeland Christian School, 1111 Forest Park St., Lakeland, Florida 33803

Welcome Wednesdays Continue this Winter Families interested in Lakeland Christian School will have several opportunities to visit LCS this winter and spring during one of the six remaining Welcome Wednesday Admission Open House events. The upcoming dates are January 11, January 25, February 8, February 22, March 7 and April 18. Please RSVP to Mrs. Julie Rice, Director of Community Relations, at jrice@lcsonline.org if you would like to attend. Current families – don’t forget to be thinking of families you can invite to a Welcome Wednesday. Please pass out the cards you received in the fall. Need more invitations for your card pack? Just contact Julie Rice!

M A R K YO U R C A L E N D A R

✁ Do you know someone who might be interested in sending their children to LCS? Use this card to invite them to a Welcome Wednesday open house!

December 16 Early Dismissal, Christmas Holidays Begin

January 16 School Holiday (MLK, Jr. Day)

January 2 Student Holiday, Teacher Work Day

January 17-20 Secondary Exams

January 3 Classes Resume

January 20 End of First Semester

January 9 Re-Enrollment Begins

January 23 Beginning of Second Semester