{ summer 2013 }
I N S I D E feature >
LCS Inspires a Lifetime of service
Former Faculty Couple, Bruce and Laura Edgar, Minister in Nicaragua
On the horizon As followers of Jesus Christ, we are called to serve. The Savior exemplified this priority as described in Mark 10:45, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve and to give His life as a ransom for many.” We cannot serve by procuring salvation for others as Jesus did, but we can all be involved redemptively through whatever calling we pursue with our lives. This issue of Engage features several LCS alumni, staff and friends whose vocations or avocations involve service. Their work or their free time is directly related to extending God’s kingdom in the hearts of others. Whether we serve as our primary vocation or as our avocation, we can all be involved in working redemptively to glorify God though our service. We live in an “on demand” world that unashamedly exalts material success, privilege and comfort marinated in a sense of entitlement. The goal for most is to be served rather than to serve. The value of glorifying God by self-sacrificing service for the good of others is radically counter-cultural. We hope these features will encourage all of us to follow the example of the Savior to make serving a priority.
DR. MIKE SLIGH, Headmaster
Magazine Editor Sandy Johnson, Communications Specialist
WHY Engage ?
Creative Design Clark/Nikdel/Powell
engage v. to commit; to involve intensely; to begin action
Cover Photography Traci Greve
The new title for the LCS magazine describes – in one word –
Administrators: Dr. Mike Sligh | Headmaster Steve Wilson | Director of Advancement Luci O’Byrne | Elementary Principal Wayne Shimko | Secondary Principal Darren Copeland | Assistant High School Principal Keith Overholt | Assistant Middle School Principal Julie Rice | Director of Enrollment
a great deal about our passion for Christian schooling and the effectual results. This active verb reflects our commitment to fostering lives of vibrant faith, active learning and intentional influence. Teachers engage students, students engage in their studies and co-curricular activities, and children and young people are prepared to engage their culture for the Kingdom. Engage will share encouraging stories of commitments to Christ, engagement in learning and active applications of faith for a lifetime.
John Douglass | Business Manager
Board of Directors: Kevin Knowlton – Chairman Dan Green – Vice-Chairman Beth Patteson – Secretary Payton Albritton
I n t h i s i ss u e :
Kristen Bolter
Feature: Bruce & Laura Edgar { 6 }
Dan DeLange David Miller
Side Feature: Cassie Christensen { 12 }
Jay Mueller Bill Mutz Dean Nederveld Cory Petcoff
Campusclamor@LCS { 14 } Expressions@LCS { 16 }
Steve Sligh
Alumni@LCS { 17 }
John Tucker Jim Wilbanks
Faculty Feature: Nancy Snyder { 18 } magazine is published quarterly by
Lakeland Christian School and is distributed free of charge to parents, grandparents, alumni and friends of the school. Send correspondence to: Lakeland Christian School
Staff Scoop & Fun Stuff { 20 & 21 } Sports Feature: Kevin Wasilewski { 22 } Sportszone@LCS { 24 } Cheerfulgivers@LCS { 26 }
Attn: Sandy Johnson 1111 Forest Park Street Lakeland, FL 33803 You may send emails to sjohnson@lcsonline.org. This magazine is printed by Area Litho, Lakeland, FL.
LAKELAND CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 1111 Forest Park Street, Lakeland, Florida 33803 | Phone 863-688-2771 Fax 863-682-5637 | www.lcsonline.org | Facebook: www.facebook.com/LCSVikings | Twitter: www.twitter.com/LkldChristian
The mission of L a k e l a n d C h r i s t i a n Sc h o o l
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is to educate students in the light of God’s word to equip them for a lifetime of learning, leadership, service and worship.
}
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F E AT U R E
Bruce and laura edgar
Use Education as a Platform for Missions as Their Family Serves in Nicaragua
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Bruce and Laura (Coachman) Edgar felt called to missions at different points in their lives. For Bruce, it was through contact with missionaries during his high school summers working at Camp Gilead in Polk City, Florida. For Laura, a 1988 grad of LCS, it was during a missions conference when she was a student at Bryan College in Dayton, Tennessee. The couple—both former faculty members at LCS—along with their children Peter and Emma, now serve as missionaries in Nicaragua with Association of Baptists for World Evangelism (ABWE). { 7 }
E N G A G E F E AT UR E continued
Bruce: Former Science and Bible Teacher Bruce Edgar, the youngest of five children and the son of a Marine, moved to Lakeland when he was five. He attended Carlton Palmore Elementary and Temple Christian School. Bruce attended Heritage Baptist Church from the time it was established in the late
where his class made paper airplanes and rockets. He also had the opportunity to coach soccer and basketball alongside Dean Johnson and Mark Kirby, as well as lead two groups of students to Russia on ACSI mission trips.
1970s. He began working at Camp Gilead during
During his years at LCS, two particular colleagues
high school and continued until his family left for the
served as influences and mentors in his life.
mission field. Bruce graduated from Clearwater Christian College in 1992 with a degree in Bible education and biology. “I planned to teach for a few years as a stepping stone to teaching overseas,” Bruce said. “I was
“Mr. Musick taught me a lot as we worked together in the science department, and Mike Sligh was always a great example of calm leadership.” Laura: Former Second Grade Teacher
always interested in missions. When I was in high
Laura Coachman Edgar was a student at LCS from
school working at Camp Gilead, I came into contact
the fourth grade through the 12th grade. During
with some missionaries who were involved in teaching
her years at Lakeland Christian, Laura was involved
overseas. That encouraged me to pursue studies in
with cheerleading, yearbook and the National Honor
that direction. At the point that we were ready to
Society. Her closest friends were Holly Wright Rogers,
decide on an overseas field, the door opened for
Tonja Tate Wade, Everett Bracken, Todd Radford and
teaching and camp ministry in Nicaragua. These were
Joel Jefferis, and many of her best memories included
things we had been doing for years in the U.S. and
those friends.
knew we could continue in Nicaragua.”
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highlights was teaching Matter and Energy Science
“I loved cheering for our basketball teams and all
While waiting on the doors to the mission field
that went with that. I loved working on the yearbook
to open, Bruce served on the faculty at Lakeland
staff as co-editor and selling ads all around Lakeland
Christian School from 1992 until 2004. One of the
with Holly. The time Joel organized a ‘book drop’ in
Mrs. Oncu’s class while she was recording our class for
example of my teachers propelled me toward my
a project for one of her classes will never be forgotten.
goal of becoming a teacher.”
I have many memories and lifelong friends that were made at LCS.”
“I think the most valuable part of that preparation was learning to see things through the lens of Scripture and
During her years at LCS, several teachers had
being challenged to think about everyday things in light
a tremendous impact on Laura’s life.
of God’s word. Looking back, I see the mission of LCS
“Mrs. Oncu taught me how to write well, which prepared me to succeed in college and life. Mr. Musick was able to impart an enormous amount of knowledge and wisdom during my high school years. Both of them loved the Lord and showed that love to us as students. It was a great privilege to return to teach at LCS with them as my colleagues, even though I still can’t call either of them by their first names! Trudi Sligh was my
played out in the lives of many of my teachers and staff by their longevity at LCS. Miss Palmer, Miss Ellis, Dr. Sligh, Mr. Douglass, Claudia Powell, Mr. Musick, Mrs. Oncu and Bob and Ivy Myhrer, among others, are encouraging examples of lifelong commitment to various aspects of Christian education. I am encouraged to continue to contribute to Christian education as the Lord gives me opportunity.”
cheerleading coach for four years. During that time,
Laura graduated in 1988 and went to Bryan College.
we became good friends, and I learned a lot about
It was during her time there when she felt the call
life from her. God also used her to direct me toward
to the mission field.
Bryan College where I earned my degree.”
“I grew up with my family hosting missionaries in our
Laura felt that Lakeland Christian School
home and knowing about missions in general,” Laura
prepared her well for her future.
said. “I wanted to become a teacher since it was my
“I wanted to be an elementary teacher from the time I was 12 years old,” Laura said. “I was well prepared academically and socially for college, and the godly
first grade teacher who led me to the Lord; so in that way, I viewed my classroom as a mission field, During a missions conference in college, our speaker challenged
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E N G A G E F E AT UR E continued
us to be ‘planning to go, but willing to stay’ instead of ‘willing to go, but planning to stay.’ At that point, I committed my heart to missions, not knowing when or where or with whom I would go.”
Serving as a Family in Managua, Nicaragua Bruce serves as the Director of Centro ABEM (the ABWE Ministry Center) and spends many of his days buying materials, scheduling groups, handling
After graduating from college in 1992 with a degree
general repairs and keeping track of finances. He
in elementary education, Laura returned to LCS that
also visits pastors who are part of the pastoral
fall to begin her teaching career. She taught second
training program, in which Bruce also teaches.
grade until 1997 and elementary computers during
During part of the year, the Edgars host ministry
the 1997-1998 school year.
teams and use those teams to help facilitate
In 1993, Laura had the opportunity to chaperone a missions trip to Ecuador. “After that trip, I decided that if I was still single after the school year ended, I would go teach at an MK (missionary kid) school in Ecuador,” Laura said. “Bruce and I began dating that fall, and I never made it back to Ecuador, but my heart was prepared for the idea of going into missions as a couple. Through some friends at our church, we were introduced to Nicaragua as a field, and after visiting,
local church growth. Serving primarily in the role of wife and mom, Laura also serves on the board of Nicaragua Christian Academy, where Peter and Emma are students. She also substitute teaches at the school and is currently teaching 8th grade girls’ Bible. In addition to these roles, Laura does a weekly Bible study with a Nicaraguan friend, offers Sunday school teacher training to Nicaraguan churches and is involved in Bible studies with other missionary wives.
determined it was a place where we could
Living and working in a foreign country is not without
use our gifts and talents.”
its challenges, and both Bruce and Laura agree on what the hardest parts are. “The fact that it takes a lot longer to get things done is challenging,” said Bruce. “It’s hard for our local church planters to remain supported by their
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churches because of the poverty. Also, I do miss
exciting. Many of the people here only complete
teaching at Lakeland Christian, and I miss friends
sixth grade and much of the teaching here is by rote
and family in the U.S.”
memory, so to see them using other methods where
Laura agrees: “I think living in a very inefficient country where it can take a long time to accomplish tasks is difficult for me since I tend to be taskoriented. I also miss living life with family in the same town.”
there is more interaction is great. Seeing God work in the heart of a Nicaraguan friend to bring her to Christ and to watch her not only grow week to week, but also share what she has learned with her family and friends as a result of our Bible study, has been incredible. I am also blessed to send our kids to,
However, despite the difficulties, the Edgars see
and to be involved in, a Christian school where the
frequent rewards and return for their work.
goal is to equip students to impact society through
“Nicaraguans are very friendly and helpful,” Bruce said. “It is a beautiful country with a lot of unspoiled
Christian living, motivated by a heartfelt love for God.”
areas. We really see God at work in the ministries
Peter and Emma, in addition to going to school,
here. It’s always neat to see groups of kids using
help Bruce and Laura with their ministry in a variety
the Ministry Center—using the pool, playing soccer.
of ways. They help out when there are teams from
Also, it’s rewarding to see neighborhoods that are
the U.S. and enjoy translating for the groups. Both
being impacted with the Gospel through the
kids like to swim, spend time with friends in the
church plants.”
neighborhood and attend youth group. Emma plays
“I love the people here,” Laura said. “They are so welcoming and giving, even in spite of their poverty. I love the slower pace of life that living in Latin
volleyball, the guitar and the ukulele, while Peter enjoys archery and playing the piano. He is also involved in Boys Scouts through the U.S. Embassy.
America offers, and I love the beauty of volcanoes
If you would like more information about the Edgar
and dark sand beaches. Seeing Sunday school
family and their work in Nicaragua, please visit
teachers embrace creative teaching methods is
http://www.edgar.abwe.org/.
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si de F EATU R E
Serving the Kids of Polk County: Cassie Christensen Reaches Out to At-Risk Teens through the Ministry of Youth for Christ In Polk County, Florida, there are more than 9,000
really stretched me out of my comfort zone to invest in
delinquent and at-risk youth. Often raised in broken
their lives and show them how much Christ loves them,
homes and dangerous neighborhoods, these kids end
despite some wrong turns they may have chosen. It
up in juvenile detention centers, institutions and
also allowed me to provide consistency and grace to
alternative schools. Cassie Christensen, an ’02
girls who may have never seen that or experienced
graduate of Lakeland Christian, is working with Youth
that before.”
for Christ of Polk County to reach the needs of as many of these kids as she can.
ministry role in Youth for Christ of Polk County, but there
Cassie was an active and outgoing student during
was no availability for her at the time. She accepted
her time at LCS. She played softball, basketball and
a part-time job with Teen Challenge in Lakeland while
volleyball, was a part of FCA, and spent her summers
working as a para-educator at Socrum Elementary. After
volunteering with summer camps, VBS and sports
a year with Teen Challenge, Cassie moved to Texas to
camps. She graduated in 2002 with a softball
serve at a residential treatment facility and boading
scholarship and planned to study elementary education
school called Heartlight Ministries. She lived in a house
at Warner University. After two years, her softball career
with teenagers who struggled with addictions, behavior
ended, and Cassie left Warner and eventually ended up
disorders, personality disorders and family struggles.
at Baptist College of Florida (BCF) where she graduated with a degree in ministry studies.
“I believe God had me there to learn about myself and learn more about what it looks like to live day in and day
Although Cassie began working at Camp Gilead in 2006
out with hurting girls,” Cassie said. “After about a year
and spent four years working with the junior and senior
and a half, I knew my time there was up, and I began
counselors, it was her time spent volunteering at the
praying about where God would have me next. Within a
DOVE Vocational Academy, a girls’ detention center,
week’s time, I received a phone call from Youth for Christ
during her senior year of college that led her into
wondering if there was any chance of me coming back to
full-time ministry.
Florida, and if I was, would I be interested in pursuing a
“It was really challenging to see the hurts and
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Cassie graduated from BCF and immediately pursued a
missionary position in Lakeland.”
struggles these girls had been through to get to this
“I was blown away by God’s timing and ecstatic
point in their lives,” Cassie said, “but it allowed me to
about working in my hometown. I knew that what I had
see a whole new reality of what teens are facing. God
previously known and experienced of Lakeland wasn’t
necessarily an accurate depiction of what truly exists
Although Cassie hopes to have an impact and
here, and Youth for Christ was going to provide the
influence on the teens that she comes into
avenues to invest far beyond what I could have
contact with, these kids impact her as well.
imagined. I feel that I wasn’t quite ready for YFC the first time around, and God gave me multiple learning opportunities to prepare me for this ministry now.”
“YFC has allowed me to be introduced to kids who really need people in their lives to give them a second chance … sometimes even a third and fourth,
For the past year and a half, Cassie has worked
but isn’t that what God does for us everyday? They
part time with different YFC ministries while raising
have really captured my heart and challenged me to
her necessary financial support. Beginning in August,
love more, serve more and give more. I can only hope
Cassie will be full time as the Girls’ Ministry Staff of
to have the light of Christ shine through me in all that
Lakeland. She will spend her time heading up a
I do with these kids.”
Neighborhood Girls’ Group that meets weekly for a time of training and mentorship. This program gives YFC staff members the opportunity to develop relationships with troubled kids with the goal of reaching the at-risk kids before it’s too late.
“Ultimately, I want to see all of these kids come to know the Lord as their Savior and grow in their relationships with Christ as we walk through life with them. I do know that sometimes we are just called to plant the seeds and other times, water some that
She will also continue to work as part of the
have already previously been planted. I trust in God’s
alternative school ministry, working with students
timing for their salvation. I just want these teens to
who have been kicked out of mainstream schools.
know that God loves them unconditionally and that
Cassie meets with middle school girls twice
they have a Heavenly Father who created them
each week – once as a group and then once in a
exactly how He wanted them to be and with a
one-on-one setting. In the group setting, the YFC
wonderful purpose for their lives.”
staff works to make the girls feel comfortable and welcome by playing games and doing ice breakers activities while sharing the gospel through Bible study and personal testimony. “Our goal is to break down those tough exteriors and barriers to get to know the girls and earn the right and trust to be heard,” Cassie said. “When we go back to meet with them individually, it is on a more
For the complete interview with Cassie, including details about her time at LCS, some of her major influences and how well LCS prepared her for life after high school, please visit www.lcsonline.org/ news/engage-magazine. For information about Youth for Christ of Polk County, visit http://www.yfcofpolk.org/
personal approach. Our objective here is to be able to listen to them and let them know we care.”
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{ campusclamor@lcs } Eighth Grade: • Distinguished Achievement Award: Gloria Tabb, Campbell Rice • Honorable Mention: Lauren Latimer, Brandon Kaye Twelfth Grade: • Distinguished Achievement Award: Stephanie Congratulations to the Class of 2013! The 67 graduates celebrated Baccalaureate on Sunday, June 2, and Commencement on Monday, June 3. At Baccalaureate,
Powers, Livingston Boulerice • Honorable Mention: Courtney Miles, Cameron Row
Christian Leadership Award winner Stephanie Powers and Pastor Bill Boulet (of Heritage Baptist Church) both challenged the class from the Scriptures. The following evening, Valedictorian Lymaries Velez and Salutatorian Stephanie Powers each spoke, sharing memories, advice and personal thoughts with their classmates. The class chose Mr. Stan McMahan, secondary Bible teacher, to give the Commencement address. The evening concluded with each senior receiving a diploma
The LCS Archery Team traveled to Louisville, Kentucky,
from Dr. Mike Sligh, Headmaster.
this spring to compete in the National Archery in Schools Program (NASP) National tournament. Congratulations to all of the students who participated. • The elementary team posted 3,022 points and placed 65th out of 107 elementary school teams. • For the high school males division, Matthew Henderson scored 294 out of 300 points (including 25 bullseyes) to finish 13th out of all 5,370 male shooters. His score earned him 5th place out of 10th grade males and 12th place out of the 1,614 males
Each year, the American Legion recognizes students in fifth, eighth and twelfth grades who demonstrate
• For high school females, Jessica Andrew shot 21
the character qualities of courage, honor, patriotism,
bullseyes for a score of 291 out of 300 points. She
leadership, service and scholarship. Congratulations
was 18th out of all 4,047 females, 4th place out of 9th
to the following students who were selected as
grade girls and 13th place out of 1,324 females in the
American Legion Award recipients:
high school division.
Fifth Grade: • Distinguished Achievement Award: Amy Burton, Matthew Albritton • Honorable Mention: Isabel Matallana, Sean Stoltz
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in the high school division.
• Morgan Radford was the top middle school female. With 278 points, she finished 262nd out of all 4,047 females. This was 33rd place for 7th grade girls and 78th place out of 1,283 girls in the middle school female division.
{ campusclamor@lcs } Elementary finishers:
of the extract on Palmer’s amaranth and air potato. Her
• Elementary Female division: Maci Brown finished with
research began because of her concern about managing
268 points and Kacey Hutto had 259 points. • Elementary Male division: Christian Herman had 271
invasive plants in Faith’s Forest, a three-acre wild area here on campus.
points, Christopher Lamb shot a 260, Tyler Brickhouse
Julia is a student in the RISE Institute at Lakeland
finished with 259, and Isaac Webb had 257 points.
Christian School. The program focuses on Research, Innovation, STEM learning and Entrepreneurship. She recently won Best of Show in Junior Biological Sciences at the Florida State Science and Engineering Fair in addition to first place in the Botany division.
Congratulations to seventh grader Lee Wall, who traveled to Washington, D.C. in May for the Scripps National Spelling Bee. Lee The American Museum of Natural History in New York
tied for 43rd out of 281 spellers
has selected Julia Canady, an 8th grader at Lakeland
who competed in the national
Christian School, as a recipient of the Young Naturalist
bee. Broadcast nationally on the
Award for 2013. Her essay on “Weed Warfare:
various ESPN channels, students at LCS gathered around
Investigating Allelopathy” was one of two national
their iPads and iPhones to watch their classmate
winners for the eighth grade.
compete in the televised event.
The nationwide science-based research competition for students in grades 7 through 12 is funded by Alcoa Foundation. The Young Naturalist Awards program was developed by the Museum to promote young people’s active participation in the sciences and to recognize excellence in biology, ecology, Earth science and astronomy. More than 900 essays were judged by a panel of scientists, educators, environmentalists and writers.
High school students participating in the Student Leadership University have traveled to various destinations this summer on week-long leadership retreats. Students in SLU 101 spent a week in Orlando in mid June. SLU 201 students traveled to Washington, D.C. in mid July, and SLU 301 students spent a week in England and France in early July. Student Leadership
Julia flew to New York City in late May for a ceremony
University is a faith-based, progressive leadership
and luncheon at the American Museum of Natural
program for students with the purpose of equipping
History. She received a cash award and went on a
students with the tools of leadership. For more
behind-the-scenes tour of the Museum.
information on the program, you can visit
Julia’s work focused on the development of a new “green” herbicide using an extract made from one invasive plant to control the growth of others. Spanning
www.studentleadership.net or contact Mr. Keith Overholt, Assistant Middle School Principal, at koverholt@lcsonline.org.
three years, her research included both fieldwork and laboratory studies, and investigated the effectiveness
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{ expressions@lcs }
Congratulations to
together for use; however, there are more
senior art student Allie
students interested in tuba than there are tubas
Chmura for being chosen
in a condition to be played.
to submit artwork for the Creative Youth: Fifteenth Congressional District Competition. This exhibit, organized by the Polk
The Morrison Foundation grant is the first step in providing new tubas for the students. These instruments are the largest and lowest-pitched of the band’s brass section.
Museum of Art and the office of U.S. Representative Dennis Ross, featured 101 pieces of artwork selected from more than 550 pieces submitted.
Thanks to the generosity of a local foundation, the award-winning LCS band program will begin
The LCS Fine Arts department hosted the 11th Annual
the process of replacing
Music Camp for students in second through sixth
its outdated tubas.
grades. Ninety-two students attended this year’s
The initial gift for this
camp, which was based on a Peter Pan theme. The
effort was provided by
focus of this year’s program was rhythm, and the
the Glenn W. and
classes involved a lot of movement and energy. The
Hazelle Paxson
campers enjoyed a steel drum class, a “cups” class
Morrison Foundation.
(where cups are tapped and passed in a rhythmic
Mrs. Hazelle Morrison
routine), two film classes and a flag corp class. The
was a Lakeland pioneer who had a lifelong love of
week-long camp ended with a special closing program
music. The Morrison Foundation has provided support
for the public. Thanks to the following high school
to LCS for a number of years, with many of the
students for working with this year’s camp: Emily Carl,
grants being, appropriately, issued for the
Kara Stacy, Carter Overholt, Brendan Adriano, Christina
Fine Arts Department.
Sierra, Amanda Fulton, Kirsti Mutz and Charlotte
Due to the expense of the sousaphones, it is
Varnum. The camp was organized by the Fine
estimated this replacement process will take place
Arts department including Lorraine Latham,
over the next three to four years, unless funds are
Nancy Snyder, Kathleen Boatwright, Wendy
made available before that time. LCS received the
Carl, Christy Fung, Teri Evans and Julie Latham.
current instruments years ago, after they were no longer being used by the Polk County School Board. Director of Bands Chuck Fulton has pieced the tubas
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{ alumni@lcs } 2000s Cody Lastinger (’09) graduated magna cum laude, with a bachelor’s degree in citrus production from Florida Southern College in April 2013. After spending summer 2012 as an intern with Bayer CropScience, Lastinger decided to pursue a master’s of agronomy at the University of Florida. He is currently working in an assistantship with Dr. Brent Sellers, Ph.D., in Ona, FL, at the Range Cattle Research and Education Center, performing research studies. He will attend classes at the University of Florida in Gainesville starting in August 2013.
Gheorghe Bradley (’07)
Daniel Wilson (‘02) and his wife, Jessica, welcomed their second child, Connor Stephen Wilson, on April 29, 2013. Connor joins big brother Bryce, who turned two this past May. Daniel is employed by Southern Homes in Lakeland, and Jessica is a stay-at-home mom.
1990s
graduated from the University of South Florida with a bachelor’s degree from the College of Engineering in Information Technology. He is employed by Publix. Gheorge is pictured here with his parents Don and Nancy Bradley. Nancy is a fourth grade teacher at LCS. Mike Hall (’99) and Jennifer Snyder Hall (’01) welcomed daughter, Eliana Grace on May 2, 2013. She joins her three big brothers: Noah (6), Malachi (4) and Caleb (2).
» We love to hear from you. News about you is important to us and to your former classmates. Please email Claudia Powell Brian Busing (’04) and his wife Jenny welcomed their first baby girl, Layelle Rose Busing, on October 14, 2012. The family resides in Lakeland. Brian works
at cpowell@lcsonline.org. Planning your class reunion? Claudia can also arrange for use of facilities and will offer other helpful tips.
for Greenovative Homes, and Jenny is a photographer for her own company, JenLynn Photography.
To view even more alumni updates, please visit www.lcsonline.org/alumni/alum-notes/
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faculty FEATURE
Music Teacher Nancy Snyder
Combines Passions for Music and Travel to Serve in the Community and the Around the World “…for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” – Nehemiah 8:10b From an early age, elementary music teacher Nancy
“I remember my teachers and the special impact
Snyder knew that she wanted to be a teacher, that she
of Mr. Powers (3rd grade teacher), Mrs. Evelyn Towler
loved music, that she wanted to serve God and that she
(principal and 4th-6th grade teacher) and Mr. Knutti
wanted to travel. Throughout her life, these passions
(7th-8th grade teacher). Evelyn taught us choir and
have often gone hand-in-hand. Her willingness and
took us to area churches to sing. This made a lasting
commitment to serve is modeled in her classroom,
impression, and she’s impacted my life to this
as she strives to equip the students of LCS for
day with her compassion for me and for LCS.”
a lifetime of service.
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After graduating from Lakeland High School, Nancy
Born in Akron, Ohio, Nancy moved to Florida with her
majored in music education at Bryan College in Dayton,
family when she was in first grade. As a third grader,
Tennessee. She went on to get her master’s degree
she began attending LCS during its early years—when
in elementary education from Bowie State University.
the school moved from the former Calvary Baptist
Nancy taught for 24 years at schools in Virginia and
Church property to Chiles Street. Lakeland Christian
Maryland before coming back to LCS 20 years ago to
was very small – sometimes with two and three grades
head up the elementary music program. Nancy teaches
in one classroom and only went through 8th grade
K4-5th grade music, the Heart of Joy choir (4th-5th
at the time – but Nancy has fond memories of her
grade) and the bell chimes. She is involved with the fall
time here.
musical, the annual music camp and various other
musical programs such as the 1st and 2nd grade
help with camps and Bible clubs. The opportunity
program, the K5 program and the All-County choir
arose after working as a counselor at Camp Sankanac
students. She also works on the elementary chapel
in Pennsylvania. This summer marks the 26th year
schedule and uses her passion for photography to
she has served at the camp in Northern Ireland,
serve around campus.
having gone every year except one since 1987.
“I trust that my students learn lessons of servanthood
“These days I help a bit and visit many friends that
as I teach every day. I want to teach music well and
God has given me as a result of the trips. Many of
trust that what I teach reflects the fact that we must
these friends have visited here on holidays. I have
share the musical gifts in our churches, in missions
been blessed abundantly by visiting them each year.”
areas and everywhere God gives us opportunities to go. I pray the students see it in my classes and through God’s faithfulness in my life.” In addition to her passion for music, Nancy also loves to travel. She has visited Canada, Bermuda, Africa, several European countries, Peru and many U.S. states.
Nancy’s passions for music, kids and travel have often intertwined themselves, giving her many opportunities for ministry and service through the years. “Camp, Bible clubs, playing the piano at Lighthouse Ministries, teaching many at LCS and being involved with music in my church are opportunities to use God’s
“I remember as a child growing up in Lakeland,
gifts to me and have brought joy to my heart over the
wondering if I would ever see Washington, D.C. and
years. I continue to desire to be used of God however
New York City. I am amazed as I look back over the life
He chooses in the future.”
God has so faithfully directed at opportunities for travel.”
If you would like to contact Nancy Snyder, feel free to email her at nsnyder@lcsonline.org.
Each summer, Nancy travels to Great Britain (Northern Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales) to
“I trust that my students learn lessons of servanthood as I teach every day. I want to teach music well and trust that what I teach reflects the fact that we must share the musical gifts in our churches, in missions areas and everywhere God gives us opportunities to go.” { 19 }
{ staffscoop@lcs } • Mrs. Kathy Baker attended the Florida Educational Technology Conference (FETC) and the National Council for Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). • Mrs. Shannon Blanco attended the National Council for Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). Faculty service awards were given out at the end-of-year luncheon on Friday, June 7. Several members of the LCS faculty and staff were recognized for their years of service. Special congratulations go to Mrs. Judy Oncu for 30 years of service and to Mr. Mike Musick on 35 years of service.
• Miss Kala Walls attended the “Above and Beyond the 21st Century Technology Conference” sponsored by the Florida Council of Independent Schools (FCIS) and the International Homestay Symposium sponsored by the Association of Christian Schools International and Wheaton. • Mrs. Julie Rice attended the Admissions Professionals Training Conference sponsored by Independent School Management (ISM). • Mrs. Nancy Bradley attended a seminar entitled “Strengthening our Schools” at Florida Southern College featuring keynote speaker Dr. John Ratey. • Mrs. Sandy Nilius, Mrs. Debbie Stump, Mr. Fred Wiechmann and Mrs. Jennifer Canady attended the National Science Teachers Association STEM conference. • Mr. Todd Radford, Advancement Associate,
In a continual effort to provide the best education for our students, members of the LCS faculty have been actively participating in a number of different professional development activities in recent months: • Several faculty members have recently earned master’s degrees. Congratulations to Jennifer Canady, Geoff Stabler, Beth Dickman, Emily Mason and Gaye Lene Hasha.
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attended the annual meeting of the Christian Leadership Alliance in Los Angeles, California.
{ funstuff@lcs } We asked members of the LCS family to tell us what their perfect summer day looks like. Here are some of the favorite responses » “My perfect summer day would be taking pictures with my family after a long day of riding horses on the beach with my friends!” – Kylie Beaudreault, 8th grader
“My perfect summer day would be hiking a mountain trail, swimming in a creek and catching fireflies at night.” – Mrs. Claudia Powell, Administrative Assistant to the Headmaster and Advancement Office
“My idea of a perfect summer day is waking up early and going out to see my horses and riding. Then going to the Lakeland downtown farmer’s market and having beignets and, afterwards, having a family dinner with all my cousins, aunts and uncles.”
“My perfect day is selecting a swimsuit, which beach chair, which umbrella and which book.” – Kathleen Boatwright, LCS Piano Department
– Julia Canady, 9th grader “My perfect summer day would be going to Daytona Beach, Florida, with my family, and tan. Take pictures together during sunset. Go to the boardwalk to eat at Aunt Catfish’s. Play mini-golf and have a great time.” – Aimee Reimer, 7th grader
“My perfect summer day would be going to the sandbar and beaching it up, and then watching “Downton Abbey.” – Rebekah Firmin, 12th grader "My perfect summer day involves a good morning run, chilled watermelon for lunch and sunshine at the beach with my family. Perfect." – Julie Rice, Director of Enrollment
“My perfect summer day would be at the beach with a good book.” – Carter Overholt, 12th grader
NEXT ISSUE’S QUESTION: How do you typically spend your college football Saturdays? Tell us by emailing Sandy Johnson: sjohnson@lcsonline.org. { 21 }
sports FEATURE
Alumni Parent Kevin Wasilewski Uses Knowledge, Skills to Mentor Athletes Kevin Wasilewski wears a lot of hats around Lakeland Christian School, but he isn’t on the payroll. A former school parent with two alumni daughters, Kevin began volunteering at LCS eight years ago. Now he serves as an assistant coach for the varsity girls’ soccer team and varsity baseball team, as well as a member of the golf tournament committee. Kevin’s faithful service to LCS over these years is a great example to our students as we prepare them for a “lifetime of service.”
Recently, LCS Athletic Director Mark Kirby nominated
Sarasota Riverview High School. I graduated from
Kevin for the All Pro Dad “Always There” award. In
Stetson University in 1986 with a bachelor’s in
his nomination letter, Mark wrote:
business administration. I work for Syngenta as a
“It is rare to find a person who does not seek to be recognized for his service but finds true joy in serving others. Lakeland Christian School has such a person in Kevin Wasilewski. Kevin serves as a volunteer assistant coach in both our soccer and baseball programs. He is great at seeing what needs to be done and doing it, no matter how big or small the task. Our turf fields are in excellent shape because of both his knowledge and personal sweat and toil. He has shoveled mounds of clay, laid many
genetic business in the U.S. I’ve been with Syngenta for 13 years. My wife Page and I just celebrated our 27-year anniversary. Our daughters Shannon and Lauren are both graduates of LCS. Shannon graduated from FSU, and Lauren is a senior at the University of Florida. We attend Covenant Presbyterian Church, where I serve as a deacon. I also serve as a board member for the Florida Turfgrass Association.
pallets of sod, fertilized, watered and aerated when
Engage: What are the different areas where
needed. Kevin loves our student athletes and is a
you volunteer at LCS?
mentor and counselor to many. His gentle and calm
Kevin: I assist Jason Streets with girls’ soccer
demeanor allows him to speak truth to them in love
team, and I focus my efforts on training and
and encourage them toward improvement. Kevin has
developing our goalies. I assist Blane Fox with
never considered any job beneath him, whether it
the varsity baseball program, and my duties are
is washing stinky practice jerseys, cleaning coolers
working with and developing our pitchers. I had
or disinfecting water bottles. His goal is to make
the opportunity to play baseball at Stetson
the coach, team, Athletic Director and, ultimately,
University and professionally with the Houston
Lakeland Christian School look good.”
Astros. The golf tournament is a major fundraiser
Engage: Tell us about yourself. Kevin: I grew up in Sarasota, Florida, and attended { 22 }
National Sales Manager overseeing our seed and
for our athletic department. I have served as the chairman for six years and the past two years as a
committee member. My responsibilities included
a great family environment, with great
negotiating and securing a venue, obtaining
teachers, administrations and coaches who
sponsorships and prizes.
focus on God’s Word.
Engage: How long have you been
Engage: What is your favorite part about
involved at LCS?
being involved at LCS?
Kevin: I have been volunteering at LCS for
Kevin: I enjoy working with our athletes to help
eight years.
them develop spiritually and physically so they
Engage: How did you first get involved
can do their best.
as a volunteer at LCS?
Engage: What are some of the best memories
Kevin: Coach Dean Johnson and David Sligh did a
or experiences from your time serving as a
great job caring for Gordon Field. I wanted to offer
volunteer at LCS?
my services and turf grass knowledge to LCS.
Kevin: There are so many but, personally,
Engage: Your kids have graduated, and you work a full-time job. Why do you continue to work with the LCS athletic programs?
watching Shannon and Lauren play for LCS. Each time they stepped on the field was a true blessing.
Kevin: God’s blessing! He has blessed me with the ability to teach and motivate athletes. LCS is
“It is rare to find a person who does not seek to be recognized for his service but finds true joy in serving others. Lakeland Christian School has such a person in Kevin Wasilewski.” — Mark kirby
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{ sportszone@lcs }
Congratulations to the following LCS athletes on being named to The Ledger’s Spring All-County Teams: • Weightlifting: Caleb Thomas (1st team); Cody Averitt, Jonathan Graham, Alex Holmes, Roman Mancini, Tucker Scruggs (Honorable Mention) • Track and Field: T. J. Simmons (1st team); Luke Congratulations to seniors Stephanie Powers,
Cabrera, Sydney Collins (2nd Team); Matt Buchy,
Courtney Miles, Phil Wilsman, Josh Sessums and
Jerod Fuller, Michael Barcelo, Caleb Thomas, Jessica
Scott Benton, along with junior Brooke Wilsman,
Fuller, Courtney Miles (Honorable Mention)
on being named this year’s “Mighty in Spirit” award winners. These awards are given out each year by the Athletic Department. Winners are selected by their teammates and recognized for having an exemplary Christian testimony both on and off the playing field.
• Tennis: Sam Moseley, Tim Tallo, Evan Gonzalez, Taelor Chism, Kaitlynn Connell (Honorable Mention) • Baseball: Logan Browning (1st team); Brooks Wilson (2nd team); Ben Andress, Raffi Bournigal, Grant McKown, Marcus Stump, Andrew Williams (Honorable Mention) • Softball: Brooke Wilsman (2nd team); Kristen Beacham, Brooke Benton, Helen Long, Emily Murphy, Meghan Sutton (Honorable Mention) • All-Academic: Blake Crosby, Sarah Mora, Stephanie Powers, Alex Sessums, Josh Sessums, Ly Velez, Andrew Williams, Phil Wilsman
This spring, seniors (and twins!) Alex and Josh Sessums signed letters of intent to continue their athletic careers on the collegiate level. The brothers will play soccer for Florida Southern College in Lakeland. Alex and Josh, both defenders, served as co-captains of the Viking team this past winter. Visit www.fscmocs.com for a 2013 men’s soccer schedule.
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{ sportszone@lcs }
November 8 (Agape Christian): Senior Recognition Night For a complete schedule, visit www.lcsonline.org/athletics.
This summer Meghan Sutton, a varsity softball player getting ready to start her senior year, was Three seniors from the Viking baseball team
invited to advanced training at the World Cup training
represented Lakeland Christian School at the
facility in Oklahoma. She spent a week training with
Senior All-Star baseball game held at Joker
Lee Ann Jarvis and Danielle Bush, members of the
Marchant Stadium on May 14. Congratulations to
USA Olympic Softball team. Meghan tried out for the
Grant McKown, Raffi Bournigal and Andrew Williams
training camp and was one of only 100 girls from all
on their outstanding baseball careers at LCS.
over the U.S. invited to attend.
Another exciting fall of Viking football is just around the corner, and Viking Stadium is the place to be on Friday nights! Mark your calendar now with the home schedule and list of events: September 6 (Orangewood Christian): New Family Night, Chick-fil-A Night (win CFA for a year!), Recognition of K4 students, annual Viking Dash September 13 (Liberty High School): Pastor Appreciation Night October 4 (Bishop McLaughlin): Homecoming 2013 October 18 (Frostproof High School): Fall Festival Night, Flag League Jamboree, Junior Cheerleader Performance
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{ cheerfulgivers@lcs }
LCS Meets Matching Challenge! Campaign Now Enters The ‘Home Stretch’
words, if all outstanding pledges are paid, the remaining need is merely $325,000, plus interest incurred to maintain the loan. Of course, the sooner the school can pay off the loan, the less interest will be paid. The Dream Come True wrap-up campaign began last fall and is the final leg in the $23 Million expansion, which has transformed the LCS campus into a
Faithful supporters of Lakeland Christian School
world-class educational facility. Parents, grandparents,
were up to the challenge!
alumni, alumni parents and other friends have given
In six months – to the day – from the time a generous friend of the school offered to provide $500,000 to LCS when the school raised that same
generously over the years to make the school’s dynamic vision a reality. And now, LCS is just $325,000 of new commitments
amount, the final commitment was made toward
away from completing the funding – paying for
this extraordinary matching gift opportunity.
this great blessing students have been enjoying
Through the grace of God and the generosity of His people, LCS received a half-million dollars in
for the past several years.
commitments for the Dream Come True wrap-up
All Hands on Deck!
campaign over the past six months. The school has
Now that the school is on the home stretch, will you
already received the matching gift, as promised,
participate in this special opportunity to help provide
and has applied it toward the loan.
the “final dollars”? Will you consider giving (or giving again!) at this critical time? LCS is grateful for your
Great News – The ‘End’ is Near!
kind consideration.
Want the best news yet? After receiving this match,
Remember, the ultimate beneficiaries are the children
LCS needs only $325,000 in “new” commitments to
and young people of the next generation whose hearts
complete the funding of this massive effort. In other
and minds are influenced on the LCS campus each day.
Only $325,000 left of our $23 million goal!
$21.7 million given to campaign 2006-2012
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$500,000 gift match REC’D ($1,000,000 total)
$325,000 left to go!
{ cheerfulgivers@lcs } Please … make LCS a part of your stewardship plan for this critical wrap-up.
WHO SHOULD GIVE THESE ‘FINAL’ DOLLARS? Anyone with a heart for the good work of Lakeland Christian. Much of the funding so far has been provided by folks whose children and grandchildren have now
WHAT? The Dream Come True wrap-up campaign completes the funding for the Elementary/Middle School Building, the K4/K5 Suites, Viking Stadium, expanded parking and new main entry, and the outdoor learning center amphitheater.
HOW MUCH DID IT ALL COST? The cost of the campus transformation was $23 Million.
HOW MUCH IS LEFT?
graduated. That’s why LCS encourages current school parents and grandparents to join in giving toward the wrap-up – since their children and grandchildren are the beneficiaries of generous giving by so many others!
I WANT TO GIVE, BUT I CAN’T WRITE A CHECK TODAY. IS THAT OKAY? Absolutely. In fact, some generous commitments will be funded into 2014.
HOW MUCH SHOULD I GIVE? Glad you asked … faithful stewardship is about putting
Only $325,000 of new commitments is needed
God’s resources to work. Remember, He owns it all!
to complete the funding. This is, clearly, the
So, give according to the principle of 2 Cor. 8:12. If God
home stretch.
has blessed you with a little, just give a little. However, if God has blessed you with an abundance, you get to
DOESN’T TUITION HELP PAY FOR IT?
give a lot. But by all means … please … give.
No. So far, 100 percent of the expansion has been funded through private donations.
WHO’S BEEN GIVING? LCS parents, grandparents (the largest giving group!), alumni, alumni parents, relatives and other friends of the school.
My family wants to participate. What now? Contact LCS Director of Advancement Steve Wilson at swilson@lcsonline.org, or by calling the school at 863/688-2771. He can help with your gift planning.
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Lakeland Christian School 1111 Forest Park Street, Lakeland, Florida 33803
Sharpening Minds and Shepherding Hear ts.
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