SPRING 2015
THE WARRIOR L I T T L E
R O C K
C H R I S T I A N
A C A D E M Y
The Lady Warrior soccer team finished up an amazing season going 22-1. Undefeated in conference play, the team landed as a first seed in the state playoffs winning their first three games with ease and making it to Fayetteville to play for the state title. The match-up between the Warriors and the Pulaski Academy Bruins made for a competitive championship game. The Warriors pulled past the Bruins with five minutes left in the game with a header goal by Annalee Rhodes off a corner kick from Jessica Phelps. Congratulations to the team on claiming the third state title for Lady Warriors soccer!
TABLE of CONTENTS 4-9
COMMENCEMENT
6
WARRIOR SEAL
10-11
WIZARD OF OZ
12-13
ARTS
14-15 ATHLETICS 16-17 WILD ABOUT WARRIORS
19
ADVANCEMENT
26
AWARDS
21
ALUMNI JARED LAX
27
SHINE ARTWORK
28
BACK TO SCHOOL INFO
17 GRANDPARENT'S DAY 22-23 STUDENT LIFE 18 GOLF TOURAMENT 24-25 HONORS NIGHT
DR. ARNOLD
RECAPS SPRING 2015 If you were fortunate enough to witness our school’s outstanding production of "The Wizard of Oz,” you just might close your eyes, click your heels three times and say, “There’s no place like home. There’s no place like home. There’s no place like home.” For that matter, there’s no place like Little Rock Christian Academy.
If you were fortunate enough to attend our 2015 Commencement, you witnessed Governor Asa Hutchinson’s tribute to our 124 high school graduates and their families. How inspiring to see our Governor and 2,000 additional Warrior fans stand to clap and sing “This Little Light of Mine!” “This little light of mine, I’m gonna let it shine!” Graduation and our Governor’s address were a dramatic climax to a year of focusing on the words of Isaiah, Paul and Jesus. “Arise and shine.” “Shine like stars.” “Let your light shine.” We take those commands seriously. Whether it is pushing forward into STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math), winning another State Championship in soccer, watching our graduates be offered over $10,000,000 in college scholarships or, hosting the annual prom for the beloved students of the ACCESS School, LRCA is shining. More accurately, LRCA is reflecting the light of the Lord … like a mirrorball. The shine is His. The shine you sense among us is merely a reflection of Him. As you peruse this newsletter, take a close look at our new official seal. Wrapped around the symbolic icons of who we are and what we do, are our core values of Truth, Excellence, Love and Partnership. As all good seals, a Latin motto anchors the artwork - Gratia et Veritas - translated, grace and truth. Our 21st century world desperately needs grace and truth. Every day, Little Rock Christian Academy offers up both in generous portions. I am convinced Little Rock Christian shines because of three main ingredients: the Holy Spirit, our mission to serve well and the sacrificial gifts of our families and friends. Thank you for your gifts to the school. I testify that the lion's share of giving this year has been directed to STEM education and financial assistance for families who otherwise would not be able to experience the glow of college prep education anchored in the truth of Jesus Christ. Like I said: “There’s no place like … Little Rock Christian Academy!”
Gary B Arnold President / Head of School THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
3
Governor Hutchinson Shares Inspirational Speech with Graduates
T
he Class of 2015 left quite an impression on a packed auditorium at Geyer Springs First Baptist Church the evening of May 22. Fresh from a memory-filled Senior Trip to Orange Beach and from a State Championship soccer match that very Friday afternoon, 124 seniors processed with a spirit unrivaled by any previous class. The spirit continued as Dr. Arnold, with a little help from Bruce Springsteen and band, led all in attendance in singing “This Little Light of Mine”. Senior Class President Hayley MacFarlane’s presentation of the class gift to the school, a very large mirror ball, also reflected the school’s 2015 theme -- SHINE. Victoria Neblett was selected by her classmates to present the Memory Speech. Maddy Weiner and Caleb Winkler earned recognition as co-Salutatorians, and Amanda Muller was Valedictorian. They all gave speeches which fondly acknowledged teachers, parents and classmates who have invested toward this goal.
4
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
LRCA was honored by the presence and participation of Arkansas Governor Asa Hutchinson. His Commencement Address reminded the graduates of the importance of technology and education in our current times, as well as the excitement of being used by God for His purposes in the lives of men and women around the world. The Governor congratulated each graduate as he or she received a diploma. For Upper School Principal Joe Neff, this was his ninth and final commencement exercise at Little Rock Christian. Mr. Neff shared heartfelt thoughts about his time with these students before presenting their diplomas. Mr. Neff and the Class of 2015 will be greatly missed on the Little Rock Christian campus. They certainly live up to their class verse: “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” 1 Timothy 4:12
Congratulations Class of 2015
Brandon Cole Allen Brenna Christine Allen Zachary R. Alstadt Peyton Lillian Anderson Gene Anthony Austin Hannah Giselle Bailey James Hall Basham Sara Deanne Belue Andrew Thomas Bennett Elizabeth Ann Bennett Alexander Cato Blankenship Sydney Elizabeth Blevins Abigail Sharon Blocker S.Brooks Boshears Elizabeth Ellen Bray Reagan Linzi Broach Carley Jane Brown Kaitlyn Paige Brown Brooklyn Kathleen Burks Grant Isaac Burson Georgie Brooke Carrico Tyler Anthony Carter Alexander Bishop Chance Tarrodd M. Collier Bronson Tate Crabtree Carrington M. Crain Bailey Nicole Crumpler Benjamin Edward Curry Mackenzie Kate Dalton Madison Claire Daugherty Robert Jacob Davis
James Paul Deer Drew DeJarnatt Blake William DeLuca Will Mark DeYmaz Lillie Elaine Dilday Daniel Joseph Doucet Marieclaire DuBose Meagan LeeAnn Edmunds Corbin Jacob Edwards Caroline Grace Elliott December Alexandria Esminger Stephen Lee Fikes Hannah Elizabeth Cloutier Fiser Grant Wesley Fletcher Shelby Dianne Fox Sarah Caroline Fugett Ross Anthony Fulgham Aaron Brennon Gamewell III Tanner Alan Gentry Margaret Elizabeth Goodrich Natalie Rae Gorman Ethan Levi Graham Madelyn E. Gregg Veronica Annmarie Groom William Kevin Groustra Thomas Clayborn Guinee Jennifer Mary Gulley Torey Daniele Harrison Michael Edward Held Hayden Louis Hill Grant Ashton Hui
Isabella Arden James Kayla Alexis Jimmerson Lueken Phillip Johnson William Yates Johnson Christopher Hayne Keaton Luke Ivan Keeling Evan Clay Kerr Aaron Wesley Kimbrough Katelyn Victoria Lazenby Andrew James Lewis Tanner Davis Ligon Geronimo Lopez Christopher Joseph LoRusso Lydia Claire Lucien Hailey Alexandra MacFarlane Hunter Andrew MacFarlane Madison Amelia Mares Margaret Sanders Martin Hudson Clay McCarver Jonathan Christopher Mocek Tanner Braden Moore Katelynn M. Morikawa Amanda Murphy Muller Naomi Faith Murrell Maegan C. Nation Victoria Joy Neblett Cameron Alex Nesterenko MaryEllen Carol O’Kelley Brandon Tyler Olsen Alyssa An Osterholm Joyce Pack
Jessica Kaye Perez Austin Ply John Hayden Proctor Ashlyn Leigh Quickel James Bryce Ramey Logan Samuel Reed Annalee Bennett Rhodes Harper Elizabeth Ricks Jack Thomas Shuffield Katherine Anita Smith Aubrey Michele Timm Sydney Lauren Tollett Shelby Christine Turner Hannah Rae Vaden Katherine Leigh Van Hemert John Michael Walker AnaLaura Caraway Wallace Emily Annmarie Ware Delaney Danielle Warren Laura Elizabeth Wasson Christian Lee Watkins Madalyn Rose Weiner Brooke Madison Whatley Andrew William Wiechern Grace Marie Wilson Caleb Matthew Winkler Ashley Caroline Worden Hanyi Yin Rachel Jeanelle Young Jake Ryan Zackovec Kevin Andrew Zust THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
5
Introducing the Warrior Seal
• L OV E
Little Ro
U
TH
IP
•
19 7 7
• T R
Gratia et Veritas
demy ca A
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
C E L L E NC X E E
R T NE R SH PA
6
Christian •
The seal includes an image of the cross and banner, our official school logo, representing every family, student, and faculty member. The W represents our Christ-centered, character based, committed and competitive athletic program. An
k c
open Bible symbolizes our Christian education and Biblical Worldview. The fine arts logo embodies the broad fine arts department.
•
L
ittle Rock Christian Academy, for the first time in its history, has an official seal which is to be used by the Head of School and Board of Trustees on certain high-status and ceremonial documents. The seal was formally introduced at commencement on May 22 as the cover image of the commencement program.
Wrapped around the symbolic icons of who we are and what we do are our core values of Truth, Excellence, Love and Partnership. The seal depicts the year of LRCA’s founding (1977) with the name of the institution inscribed around the border.
The Latin motto Gratia et Veritas translated means grace and truth. Little Rock Christian Academy provides a college distinctive preparatory education wrapped in the grace and truth of Jesus Christ.
2015 COLLEGE ACCEPTANCES Abilene Christian University
South Dakota State University
Arkansas State University
Southern Arkansas University
Arkansas State University Honors College
Southern Methodist University
Arkansas Tech University
Tennessee State University
Avila University
Texas A&M University
Baptist Health Schools
Texas Christian University
Baylor University
The American Academy of Dramatic Arts
Belhaven University
The American Musical and Dramatic Academy
College of the Ozarks Dakota State University Drury University Duke University Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Florida State University Friends University Full Sail University Harding University Henderson State University Henderson State University Honors College Hendrix College John Brown University King's College Lindenwood University Lipscomb University Lyon College
Trinity University University of Alabama University of Arkansas University of Arkansas at Fort Smith University of Arkansas at Little Rock University of Arkansas at Monticello University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences University of Arkansas Honors College University of Central Arkansas University of Central Arkansas Honors College University of Central Oklahoma University of Houston University of Kansas University of Louisiana at Monroe University of Mississippi
Mississippi University for Women
University of Missouri
Missouri State University
University of Northern Colorado
New York Film Academy
University of Oklahoma
Oklahoma Baptist University
University of South Dakota
Oklahoma State University
University of Southern California
Ouachita Baptist University
University of Texas at Dallas
Pepperdine University
University of Tulsa
Rhodes College
University of Wyoming THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
7
1
3
1.
Mr. Neff says good-bye to LRCA
2.
Band member, Sam Hudson
3.
Danielle Hodges, Band Director
4.
Governor Asa Hutchinson congratulates graduates
5.
Victoria Neblett, Memory Speaker
6.
Maddy Weiner, Co-Salutatiorian
7.
Graduates and Kay Daniels, Faculty
8.
Mr. Neff congratulates graduates
9.
Caleb Winkler, Co-Salutatiorian
2
4
10. Graduates take a “selfie” 11. Dr. Arnold addresses graduates 12. Graduates – Ashley Worden, Blake DeLuca, Benjamin Curry, Alysa Osterholm 13. Amanda Muller, Valedictorian 14. Faculty 15. Araceli Johnston and Olga Probst, Faculty 16. Graduate Alex Chance 17. Kindergarten Club 5
8
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
18. The hat toss
6
7
8
9
11
10
14 12
15
13
16
17
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
18
9
Wizard of Oz
Production was Over the Rainbow
W
hen a tornado rips through Kansas (Warrior Hall), Dorothy (Katie Smith) and her dog Toto (Tucker Davis), are whisked away in their house to the magical Land of Oz. They follow the yellow brick road toward Emerald City to meet the Wizard (Alex Blankenship) and in route they meet a scarecrow (James Basham) that needs a brain, a Tin Man (Luke Danforth) missing a heart, and a cowardly Lion (Gene Austin) who wants some courage. The Wizard asks the group to bring him the broom of the Wicked Witch of the West (December Ensminger) to earn his help. Directed by Kay and Leslie Basham, The Wizard of Oz played April 9-12 with over fifty students
10
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
performing five great shows as actors, dancers, musicians, or as members of the production and tech crew. Student participation was at an all-time high, with many students from the instrumental program, under the direction of Danielle Hodges, supporting the musical this year. A growing team of individuals worked to enlarge and improve the scope of the technical perspective of the production this year by creating a “set” with the use of video for the backdrop. Thank you to the 2015 Fine Arts Presenting Sponsor, Hickingbotham Investments, for the support that provided for professional assistance with lighting, professional musicians, the purchase of a permanent backdrop and choreography consultation.
FUN FACTS ABOUT THE LRCA PRODUCTION OF THE
WIZARD OF OZ
»» Tucker Davis (Toto) the four-legged performer that appeared in the play, belongs to Choir Director Pam Davis and was homeless just months before the production. »» Katie Smith (Dorothy) is the granddaughter of Bud Hart, founder of Walnut Valley Christian Academy, now LRCA. »» Kay Basham and Leslie Basham (Co-directors) are sister-in-laws and James Basham (scarecrow) is the son of Leslie. »» December Ensminger (Wicked Witch of the West) acted alongside Matthew McConaughey in True Detective.
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
11
SPRING ART AWARDS Arkansas Young Artist Association Gallery Competition
Lillie Wren – Arkansas Wildlife Competition
Senior Choir Members
Warren Stephens and Kate Gladden – Economics Arkansas Art Contest
Arkansas Wildlife Competition
Arkansas Young Artist Association On-Site Competition
Honorable Mention: May Griffin with Arkansas Fall Landscape
Charcoal – Fourth Place: Bekah Allen
First place: Laurel Anne Harkins with Summer Afternoon
Mixed Media – First Place: Audrey Davis
Mixed Media – Third Place: Sydney Blevins
Second place: Lillie Wren with Peaceful Reflection
Economics Arkansas Art Contest Honoring Arkansas Young Artist Association Gallery Competition Warren Stephens Oil Expressive – Third place: Ashley Cheatham
Acrylic Abstract – Honorable Mention: Savana Kuhn Acrylic Expressive – Second place: Ashlyn Quickel Graphite Realistic – First place: Ashely Cheatham Graphite Expressive – Second place: Kate Otwell Advertising Design – First place: December Ensminger Digitally Manipulated Imagery- Fourth place : Alex Blankenship Altered Book – Fourth Place: Kate Otwell Altered Book – Third Place: Hanyi Yin
12
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
First Place: Kate Gladden
Choir Awards High School Warrior Choir received a Superior rating in the 5A Division State Choral Performance Assessment Elizabeth Bennett - Most Outstanding Choral Student Shelby Fox – Most Outstanding Choral Student and choral scholarship recipient to Friends University Sarah Caroline Fugett, Katherine Van Hemert, and Delaney Warren - Honorable Mention Elizabeth Bennett – recipient of Friends of the Arts scholarship
SPRING CONCERTS Choir Concerts
The Junior High and High School Warrior Choirs presented an amazing Spring Concert entitled "Look at the World." Under the direction of Pam Davis and Emily Knox, the choirs shared several selections including Panis Angelicus, Wind Trilogy, Lux Arumque and Sanctus. All the choirs joined together for the finale This Little Light of Mine which wowed the audience. An inaugural Middle School choir concert was held with the fifth grade “Greeks” rocking their mini-musical “Bebop with Aesop”; while the sixth grade performance choirs showcased their unbelievable talents in song and dance.
Warriors Shine like the Stars The Spring Band and Orchestra Concert was a fabulous evening filled with extraordinary music from the silver screen. Upon entering Warrior Hall guests were greeted at the red carpet by the smell of popcorn and the sizzle of refreshing Coca-Colas. The 501st Star Wars Brigade made a special appearance and gave the audience opportunities for photos with storm troopers and other Star Wars characters prior to the concert. The band and orchestra played selections from The Pink Panther, The Incredibles, Jurassic Park, and James Bond, before closing with the grand finale. The fun filled evening closed with a combined performance featuring all 6th-12th grade instrumentalists and directed by Darth Vader.
Band & Orchestra Awards ASBOA Region Solo and Ensemble - LRCA students competed and won 104 First Division and 40 Second Division medals, more medals than any other school in the region. This event was held at LRCA with over 2000 students and directors participating. ASBOA Region I Concert Assessment Sight Reading Competition – Warrior Band and Orchestra received straight First Division Superior ratings ASBOA Sweepstakes Award – The Warrior Orchestra received this award for the third consecutive year. This is the highest award for musical excellence given to schools by ASBOA. LRCA has the only private school orchestra to receive an ASBOA Sweepstakes Award. Magic Springs Music Festival - Warrior Band and Orchestra received straight First Division Superior ratings Bronson Crabtree received a band scholarship to Harding University. THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
13
ATHLETICS Soccer
Boys Soccer 11-7-1 5A West Runner Up Champions State Qualifers All Star Team Brandon Olsen Ark All Prep Team Hunter MacFarlene Robert Thompson 5A All State Hunter MacFarlane Brandon Olsen Robert Thompson
5A Central All Conference Collin DeBruyn Holden Kurfess Tanner Ligon Hunter MacFarlane Brandon Olsen Jack Shuffield Kevin Zust Warrior Award Kevin Zust
Brandon Olsen will be attending Lyon College on a soccer scholarship. 14
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
Girls Soccer 21 - 1
5A All State
State Champions 5A West Undefeated Champions
Olivia Allen
MVP State Champion Annalee Rhodes
Annalee Rhodes
All Star Team Annalee Rhodes Victoria Neblett
Brenna Allen
Ark All Prep Team Annalee Rhodes Victoria Neblett
Grace Huchingson
Warrior Award Kara Winkelman
Jessica Phelps
Victoria Neblett Jessica Phelps 5A Central All Conference Olivia Allen Amanda Fitzer Emma Chesser Victoria Neblett Annalee Rhodes
Victoria Neblett will be attending the University of Central Oklahoma on a soccer scholarship.
Baseball 18-8
5A West Tri-Champions State Qualifiers All Star Team Austin Ply 5A All State Dylan Hays Austin Ply
5A Central All Conference Tarrodd Collier Brock Ferguson Joe Hampton Dylan Hays Austin Ply Luke Van Dover Carter Wade
Warrior Award Dylan Hays
Austin Ply will be attending the University of Arkansas at Little Rock on a baseball scholarship.
Softball
Warrior Award - Sarah Caroline Fugett
Track/Field
Trap Team
First Team finished in the Elite Eight in the State Tournament. First Team Shooters – Chris LoRusso, Alex Chance, Brandon Allen, Blake England and Brooks Boshears.
Girls 3rd in Conference Girls 7th in State Boys 7th in Conference 5A All State Erin Woodward Grayce Spangler Warrior Award Erin Woodward Zach Blocker
5A Central All Conference Erin Woodward Grayce Spangler Grace Ann Dickey Bailey Neal Summer Meadors
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
15
Wild About Warriors
Raises over $100,000 for Warrior Education Little Rock Christian’s annual auction and fundraiser “Wild about Warriors” was held on April 18 with several hundred parents and supporters in attendance and many others participated from home using the Bid Pal mobile bidding application on their smart phones. Hosted by the Parent Teacher Fellowship, the evening included live and silent auctions, fabulous food, awards and fellowship. The “Warrior Wish”, introduced last year, was back again and was a smashing success. Through real time donations on smartphones donors raised over $11,200 for a STEM Lab in the Elementary school. STEM Labs offer a “hands on” educational experience related to Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.
16
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
The Wild about Warriors committee consisted of twenty-five volunteers led by Chairman Whitney White. “Thank you to all of the amazing committee members, volunteers and sponsors who gave so much of their time and effort to make this event an overwhelming success,” said White. “Their giving spirits allow amazing things to happen for the students at LRCA. We are so grateful for their benevolence and support." The annual alumni and business partner awards were presented during the evening. The Mark Webb Alumni Award was given to Anna Taylor (class of 2009) for her steadfast commitment to use her education, talents and gifts to serve the poor in Kenya and for inspiring future Warriors to
Elementary Students Shine like Stars on Grandparents’ Day “Never under-estimate the influence you have on your grandchildren. Your influence is - in a word - grand.” These were Dr. Arnold’s opening remarks to over 1000 grandparents that filled the Warrior Gymnasium on April 24 for the annual Grandparents’ Day celebration. The three -year olds through – fourth grade students treated their grandparents to phenomenal performances that included patriotic, academic and Biblical selections. Students “let their lights shine for Jesus.” do the same. The Hickingbotham Award of Business Excellence was given to the law firm of Rainwater, Holt and Sexton for generously supporting education and ministry at LRCA and in our community. Twenty-five sponsors helped make the event a success. A special thank you goes to Presenting Sponsor Landers Auto Group (Steve and Karmen Landers). A total of $102,000 dollars was raised that will go directly to enhancing our children’s Warrior education.
Afterwards the grandparents were invited to visit the classrooms to meet the teachers and view classroom work. They were treated to refreshments and photo booth pictures with their grandchildren. “Thank you for encouraging the Christian education of your grandchildren,” said Arnold. “We speak often of the Little Rock Christian Academy golden triangle – the home, church and school working in harmony to raise up young Daniels and Esther’s. Grandparents are an important part of our golden triangle.”
Record Breaking Attendance at
Warrior Golf Tourney Leads to Record Breaking Success
T
he Warrior Club golf tournament broke records this year with a packed field of 132 golfers and many sponsors raising a record $82,500 in support of Warrior athletics. The annual event was held at Pleasant Valley Country club on Monday, May 4. The golfers were greeted by Warrior Club members and presented with Warrior golf shirts and backpacks as tee prizes. David's Burgers, First Security Bank, Little Greek Restaurant and Subway treated the golfers to a delicious pregame lunch. Immediately following the tournament the golfers gathered for the announcement of the winners. Prizes were awarded to the tournament winners, closest to the pin and longest drive. Thanks to Morgan Stanley, Russ Berryhill Insurance, Riser Ford, Riser Nissan, and Joni Burks – Charlotte John Realty for providing the prizes. A special thank you to our Warrior Club Champ sponsors: Van Tassel Proctor, Crews and Associates, Excel Energy Group,First National Title Company, Pediatrics Plus, Mountaire Corporation, Malmstrom White Company, and the Larry Crain family. Proceeds from the event will be used for athletic uniforms, equipment, and facilities. Thanks to all for the showcase event!
18
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
ADVANCEMENT
Annual Fund Goal is Exceeded by Generous Warrior Families
T
he Annual Fund goal for the 2014-2015 school year was set at $500,000. The goal was not only reached but exceeded by generous Warrior families. By reaching this goal we are able to significantly impact students and teachers in the areas of student learning, teacher development and compensation, campus improvements as well as providing financial support for qualified families.
Thank you to the hundreds of families who participated in this year’s Annual Fund. We are formalizing plans right now for an exciting new version of the Annual Fund that will debut this fall. It’s called the “Warrior Blitz”, you’ll be learning more about this appeal in the coming months! Have a blessed summer and thank you for your sacrificial giving. With Gratitude,
Jason L. Carson Director of Advancement and Admissions
DUKE TIP STUDENTS RECOGNIZED Thirty three seventh grade students participated in the Duke TIP talent identification program. Seventh grade students with strong intellectual abilities are invited to participate if they achieve a qualifying score at or above the 95th percentile on a recent grade-level test. Upon enrollment, Duke TIP registers this select group to take the ACT or the SAT college entrance exam. Congratulations to the following LRCA students on this outstanding accomplishment: Matthew Bennett, Elizabeth Booth, William Carter, Jonathan Chamblee, Rachel Chrisman, Pearson Dennis, Claire Fiser, William Garland (not pictured), Thomas Garner, Lillian Gregg, Davis Hawkins, Jacquelyn Horsey, Nathan Johnson, Kyzer Johnston, Riley Jones, Emma Knecht, Lauren Langley, Luke Longworth, Mason Lynn, Max McClendon, Ashton Price, Emily Riley, Victoria Roach, Ashlynne Robeson, Keaton Rypkema, Samuel Scott, Samantha Shaw, Zachary Taylor, Jackson Terry, Matthew Vaughn, Zachary White, Graemme Withrow and William Wood. THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
19
The Lax Family
Jared and Coach Winkleman
Jared (far left) in Louisiana
Jared (far right) and friends
Jared as Mario Kart
A LUMN I STORY
Jared Lax Class of 2011 Fulbright Scholar- teaching in Indonesia, swimming with whale sharks, and surfing
L
ittle Rock Christian Academy Alumni and recent TCU graduate (B.B.A. in Marketing with a minor in Writing), Jared Lax, has recently been honored as a Fulbright Scholar and English Teaching Assistant to Indonesia. The Fulbright English Teaching Assistant (ETA) Program places recent college graduates as English Teaching Assistants in primary and secondary schools or universities overseas - improving foreign students’ English language abilities and knowledge of the United States while increasing the U.S. student's own language skills and knowledge of the host country. While at LRCA, Jared was named National Merit Scholar. As a varsity basketball athlete, he earned all-conference and allstate honors. His leadership was evident in other domains of the school including Student Council, Literary Journal, and Chapel. We recently asked Jared to share his future plans along with a few of his TCU and LRCA experiences. LRCA: How did LRCA prepare you for higher education? JL: LRCA prepared me in a two main ways. The school instilled 20
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
a sense of curiosity both inside and outside the classroom, and the teachers acted as great role models who encouraged learning and the development of personal relationships. LRCA: Did you have a favorite class or teacher in high school? JL: My favorite high school class and teacher had to be AP U.S. History. Mrs. Griffin structured the class as a roundtable discussion format, and she knew the material so well that she hardly needed a book to teach it. Mrs. Griffin cultivated a personal relationship with me, and I came to view her as someone I could talk to about the founding fathers just as easily as I could my college selection process. LRCA: What was your favorite high school memory? JL: My favorite high school memory has got to be beating Camden Fairview my sophomore year. Our season had been difficult, starting four sophomores and one junior, finishing 3 22. Camden was either first or second in our conference, and somehow we went down to their gym and eked out one of our
three wins. The bus ride home was the most exuberant we had been all season, and we celebrated by playing basketball back in the LRCA gym when we got home until around 2:00 a.m. LRCA: What impact did LRCA have on your faith? JL: LRCA gave me an incubator to grow my faith during a pivotal time of personal growth and development. Being surrounded by peers and teachers who treasured their relationships with God afforded me a constant sense of spiritual community, and this is the type of community I continued to seek once I went to college. LRCA: Why did you choose Texas Christian University? JL: I chose TCU pretty late in the game, April of my senior year, but I stumbled upon it because I was looking for schools that were out of state, not too small, in a great city, and had a good mixture of academic rigor and college life. TCU fit this bill perfectly. LRCA: Would you recommend TCU to LRCA students? JL: Yes, yes, yes, and yes. I would wholeheartedly recommend TCU to LRCA students. It has a diverse student body from all over the country, fantastic athletics, reputable academics, amazing professors, a good Greek system, and it's located in one of Texas's best cities (Fort Worth). I could not have had a better collegiate experience. LRCA: Tell us about the Fulbright honor you received.
Jared supporting the TCU Horned Frogs
JL: I received a Fulbright ETA (English Teaching Assistant) Grant to Indonesia. The United States Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) administers the program and is the largest international educational exchange program anywhere. I will be living in Indonesia from August 2015 to May 2016, teaching English, and fostering relationships and community with the people of Indonesia. Hopefully I'll have a little time on the side to travel around Southeast Asia, swim with whale sharks, and work on my surfing. LRCA: What are your plans after Indonesia? JL: I don’t have definite plans, but I’m particularly interested in two specific jobs, one with Google, one with UNICEF. I’m considering law school and graduate school for a Master’s in Public Policy or in International Relations.
Beyond the Gates The Alumni Staff recently hosted a “Beyond the Gates” event for former students now attending Ouachita Baptist University and Henderson State University in Arkadelphia. The fellow Warriors enjoyed catching up while enjoying Mexican fare at Ta Molly’s Restaurant. This was the first of many “Beyond the Gates” dinners. Watch for details on an event coming to Fayetteville and Jonesboro next Fall!
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
21
2
1
3 4
5
6
7
8
9
11
10
Student Life 12
14
16
1. Junior class white water rafting trip 2. Sophomore class mission trip 3. MR. LRCA fundraiser 4. ACCESS Prom hosted by Senior class 5. Second grade field trip 6. Accelerated Reader Award 7. Elementary STEM Lab 8. Grandparents’ Day with the Governor and First Lady 9. Prom Queen and King 10. Third grade service project 11. Early Childhood music program 12. Head of School for the Day 13. Kindergarten field trip 14. Sixth grade scavenger hunt 15. Middle School Science Fair at UALR 16. Fourth grade “Wild about Warriors” art 17. Three year old recess
17
13
15
CAMPUS NEWS
Honors Night Award Recipients
BIBLICAL WORLDVIEW 9th Grade Biblical Worldview - Caleb Henry 9th Grade Biblical Worldview - Adie Geoghagan 9th Grade Biblical Worldview - Erin Montgomery 9th Grade Biblical Worldview - Laurel Anne Harkins 9th Grade Biblical Worldview - Nicholas Powell 9th Grade Biblical Worldview - Hannah Cheatham 9th Grade Biblical Worldview - Ashton Dollar 9th Grade Biblical Worldview - Weston Northington 9th Grade Biblical Worldview - Olivia Havens 9th Grade Biblical Worldview - Kate Hatfield 9th Grade Biblical Worldview - Athen Wilkerson 9th Grade Biblical Worldview - John Snyder 9th Grade Biblical Worldview - Conner Parnell 9th Grade Biblical Worldview - Mary Katherine Childers 9th Grade Biblical Worldview - Elisha Low 10th Grade Biblical Worldview - Ella Greer 10th Grade Biblical Worldview - Allie Morton 10th Grade Biblical Worldview - Grace Hutchingson 10th Grade Biblical Worldview - Andie Kate White 10th Grade Biblical Worldview - Hannah Keltner 10th Grade Biblical Worldview - Myles Mason 10th Grade Biblical Worldview - Summer Meadors 11th Grade Biblical Worldview - Kara Winkelman 11th Grade Biblical Worldview - Kate McDonald 11th Grade Biblical Worldview - Savana Kuhn 11th Grade Biblical Worldview - Spencer Burton 11th Grade Biblical Worldview - John Taylor 11th Grade Biblical Worldview - Cooper Lair 11th Grade Biblical Worldview - Ashlyn Underwood 11th Grade Biblical Worldview - Hannah Kelley 11th Grade Biblical Worldview - Chloe Elkins 11th Grade Biblical Worldview - Rachel Roberts Biblical Worldview III - Hunter Jones Biblical Worldview III - Stone Boshears Senior Biblical Worldview - Amanda Muller Senior Biblical Worldview - Lydia Lucien Senior Biblical Worldview - Caleb Winkler Senior Biblical Worldview - Hannah Fiser Senior Biblical Worldview - Maddy Weiner
24
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
Senior Biblical Worldview - Veronica Groom Senior Biblical Worldview - Hailey MacFarlane Senior Biblical Worldview - Geronimo Lopez Senior Biblical Worldview - Hunter MacFarlane Senior Biblical Worldview - Chris LoRusso Senior Biblical Worldview - Elizabeth Bennett Senior Biblical Worldview - JuHee (Joyce) Pack Senior Biblical Worldview - Carley Brown Senior Biblical Worldview - Shelby Turner Biblical Manhood - Jake Zakovec Biblical Manhood - Christopher LoRusso Marriage & Family - Ashley Worden Marriage & Family - Katherine Van Hemert
Business Simulation - Ridgeway Jones Computer Applications - Caleb Winkler Computer Applications - Andrew Bennett Economics - Tyler Blaszak Economics - Mattie Leech Economics - Haven Griffin Economics - Ashlyn Underwood Economics - Kara Winkelman Economics - Savanah Kuhn Economics - Grace Fegtly Economics - Mchael Gipson Economics - Hunter MacFarlane Economics - Sam Gorzalski Economics - Chloe Elkins Home and Consumer Management - Sarah Caroline Fugett
HISTORY
Acting I - Ashton Dollar Acting II - Andie Kate White AP Music Theory - Thomas Dennis Digital Illustration - Jack Meckfessel Digital Illustration - Bronson Crabtree Digital Illustration - Meagan Edmunds Digital Illustration - Summer Meadors Digital Video - Ben Blocker Digital Video - Josh Stadtmueller Digital Video - J. D. Fuller Digital Video - Nicholas Powell Digital Video - Nick Rush Drawing - Bronson Crabtree Graphic Design - December Ensminger Graphic Design - Holden Kurfess Intro to Art - Athen Wilkerson Intro to Art - Kate Hatfield Intro to Art - Ben Blocker Intro to Art - Hannah Bailey Jr. High Choir - Isaac Dubose Painting - Ashley Cheatham Portfolio - Mackenzie Dalton Pottery - Lindsey Worthington Pottery - Caroline Anderson Pottery - Maddie Weiner Pottery - Kate Otwell Studio Art - Madison Schrader Studio Art - Audrey Davis Studio Art - Natalia Zwirek Studio II - Kate Otwell Web Design - Zachary Alstadt Web Design - Elizabeth Davis Web Design - Andrew Bennett Web Design - Geronimo Lopez Web Design - Spencer Burton
20th Century American History - Kara Winkleman 20th Century American History - Lane Coleman 20th Century American History - Ragan Hall 20th Century American History - Georgie Carrico 20th Century American History - Erin Woodward 20th Century American History - Sarah Dreher AP US Government - Cooper Lair AP US History - Ashlyn Underwood Civics - Adie Geoghagan Civics - Athen Wilkerson Civics - Faith Briggs Civics - Emily Denny Civics - Aidan Cheatham Civics - Julia Moore Civics - John David Fuller Civics - Macy Tingle Civics - Erin Montgomery Concurrent US History - Kate McDonald Concurrent US History - Jack Meckfessel World Geography - Amanda Muller World Geography - Hannah Cheatham World Geography - Laurel Anne Harkins World Geography - Lilly Mitchell World Geography - Weston Northington World Geography - Grace Crain World Geography - Ben Blocker World Geography - Emma Minden World Geography - Adeline Geoghagan World History - Summer Meadors World History - Grace Griffin World History - Sarah Ware World History - Andie White World History - Allie Morton World History - Georgiana Burnside World History - Mary Katherine Childer
BUSINESS Accounting - Jessica Perez Accounting - Chris LoRusso
FINE ARTS
MATH Algebra I - Emma Chesher Algebra I - Christopher Roach Algebra I - Hannah Davis Algebra I - Adam Wiechern Algebra I - Susan Overton Algebra I - Julia Moore Algebra II - Mary Katherine Burrow
CAMPUS NEWS Algebra II - John Snyder Algebra II - Andie Kate White Algebra II - Rachel Roberts Algebra II - Emma Chesher AP Calculus AB - Cooper Lair AP Calculus BC - Gene Austin AP Statistics - Ashlyn Quickel College Algebra - Austin Ply College Algebra - Christian Watkins College Algebra - Katherine VanHemert College Algebra - Elizabeth Bray Engineering - Spencer Burton Engineering - Luke Keeling Geometry - Jamie Zakovec Geometry - Katherine Martin Geometry - Nate Mooney Geometry - Willie Chapple Geometry - Erin Montgomery Intermediate Algebra - Amanda Fitzer Pre-AP Algebra II - Sarah Ware Pre-AP Algebra II - Ashley Ingram Pre-AP Algebra II - Grace Griffin Pre-AP Geometry - Will Strickland Pre-AP Geometry - Adeline Geoghogan Pre-Calculus - Savana Kuhn Pre-Calculus - Sarah Dreher Pre-Calculus - Kara Winkleman Statistics - MacKenzie Dalton Statistics - Hailey MacFarlane Trigonometry - Delaney Warren Trigonometry - Meg Goodrich Test Prep - Allie Morton Test Prep - Robert Thompson
SCIENCE Anatomy - Maddy Weiner Anatomy - Caleb Winkler Anatomy - Amanda Meuller Anatomy - Sara Belue Anatomy - Sydney Tollett Anatomy - Elizabeth Bennett AP Biology - Cooper Lair AP Biology - Sarah Dreher AP Chemistry - Tyler Blaszak AP Physics - Cooper Lair AP Psychology - Laura Wasson Athletic Medicine - Ridgeway Jones Biology - Hayden Daggett Biology - Stone Boshears Biology - Grace Fegtly Biology - Ashley Cheatham Chemistry - Summer Meadors Chemistry - Peyton Cooper Chemistry - Payton Nipps Chemistry - Ann Claire Cook Chemistry - Andie Kate White Chemistry - Georgia Rogers Conceptual Physics - Madison Price Conceptual Physics - Rose Johnson Conceptual Physics - Will Chamblee Conceptual Physics - Katie Martin Conceptual Physics - Kate Hatfield Conceptual Physics - Harrison Booth Conceptual Physics - Julia Moore Horticulture - Georgie Carrico
Horticulture - Ashlyn Quickel Health - Georgia Carrico Intro to Psychology - Christopher LoRusso Intro to Psychology - Maddy Weiner Intro to Psychology - Natalia Zwirek Intro to Psychology - Sara Belue Physics - Amanda Muller Pre-AP Biology - Kevin Knox Pre-AP Biology - Erin Woodward Pre-AP Biology - Savana Kuhn Pre-AP Chemistry - Georgiana Burnside Pre-AP Chemistry - Allie Morton Pre-AP Chemistry - Sarah Ware Pre-AP Chemistry - Elisha Low Pre-AP Conceptual Physics - Adeline Geohagan
ENGLISH AP Language and Composition - Jennifer Gulley AP Literature - Erin Woodward AP Literature - Cooper Lair AP Literature - Kate McDonald Creative Writing - Lydia Lucien English I: Composition - Caleb Winkler English I: Composition - Georgie Carrico English II: Literary Analysis - Katherine Van Hemert Freshmen English - Will Chamblee Freshmen English - Emma Minden Freshmen English - Rose Johnson Freshmen English - John Ivester Freshmen English - Macy Tingle Freshmen English - Davis Lee Junior English - Hannah Kelly Junior English - Claire Newton Junior English - Spencer Burton Junior English - Jordan Smith Junior English - John Taylor Junior English - Stone Boshears Pre-AP Freshman English - Adie Geoghagan Pre-AP Freshman English - Laurel Anne Harkins Pre-AP Sophomore English - Hannah Keltner Pre-AP Sophomore English - Gabrielle Davis Pre-AP Sophomore English - Allie Morton Sophomore English - Carson Clevenger Sophomore English - Riley Roach Sophomore English - Maddy Phelps Sophomore English - Nicole Melton Sophomore English - Sarah Ware
FOREIGN LANGUAGE Chinese - Grace Bornemeier French I - Hannah Keltner French I - Summer Meadors French II - Lindsey Worthington French IV/V - Caleb Winkler Honors Chinese - Thomas Dennis Honors Chinese - Weston Northington Honors French II - Rebekah Ortega Honors French II - Andie Kate White Honors French III - Abigail Nowell Honors Spanish II - Sarah Ware
Honors Spanish II - Nicholas Powell Honors Spanish II - Adie Geoghagan Honors Spanish II - Laurel Anne Harkins Honors Spanish V - Hannah Fiser Latin I - Rose Johnson Latin II - Robert Thompson Latin II Honors - Allie Morton Latin III Honors - Ashlyn Underwood Spanish I - Grace Crain Spanish I - Rachel Monk Spanish I - Madison Price Spanish I - Isabella Wisinger Spanish II - Samuel McFarland Spanish II - Natalia Zwirek Spanish III Honors - Brandon Allen Spanish III Honors - Sharon Amole Spanish IV - Christopher LoRusso Spanish V - Hannah Fiser
COMMUNICATIONS Oral Communication - Brooklyn Burks Oral Communication - Thomas Guinee Oral Communication - Elisha Low Oral Communication - Isa Rice Oral Communication - Layne Coleman Oral Communication - Claire Newton Oral Communication - Ashley Cheatham Oral Communication - Will Chessir Yearbook - Emily Ware Journalism - Maegan Nation
PHYSICAL FITNESS Physical Education - Bronson Crabtree Women's fitness - Susan Overton
HONORS NIGHT Charles Jolliff Christian Character Award -Victoria Neblett and Brooks Boshears Warrior Award 9th grade - Grace Crain and Ben Blocker 10th grade - Andie Kate White, Georgiana Burnside, and Zach Blocker 11th grade - Kendall Byrd, Holden Kurfess, and Spencer Burton 12th grade - Hannah Fiser and Caleb Winkler Male and Female Athlete of the YearAnnalee Rhodes and Tarrodd Collier Warrior Club Scholarship Winner-Sara Belue, Hannah Fiser, Michael Held, Kevin Zust Fine Arts Scholarship Winner-Elizabeth Bennett and Bronson Crabtree PTF Scholarship Winner-Michael Held Hambrice Scholarship-Torey Harrison National Merit Commended-Reagan Broach and Amanda Muller Band Student of the Year -Bronson Crabtree Orchestra Student of the Year -Mackenzie Day Digital Art Student of the Year -December Enminger Visual Art Student of the Year -Hanyi Yin Dramatic Arts Student of the Year -December Ensminger Vocal Arts Student of the Year - Cole Chandler
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
25
CAMPUS NEWS
1
2
4
1.
Stock Market Competition, First Place – Nathan Dodds, Reed Clevenger, Andrew Mayes, Susie Thompson
2.
Stock Market Competition, Second Place – Ryan O’Donnell, Jacob Davis and Susie Thompson
3.
Robert Thompson, Spencer Burton, Warren Stephens (special honorary speaker), Sharon Amole, Ashlyn Underwood, Susie Thompson
4.
Junior Achievement Business Simulation Competition – Patrick Salman, Christopher LoRusso, Jessica Perez, AT&T representative, Evan Kerr and Alex Chance
5.
Quiz Bowl – Second Place in State Tournament - back row - Craig Lair (coach), Geronimo Lopez, Danny Erlandson (coach); front row - Tyler Blaszack, Hayden Bradberry, Cooper Lair (Overall State MVP), Spencer Burton, Colton Fisher
6.
Outstanding Performance in Chemistry Olympiad – Reece Mitchell, Olga Probst and Spencer Burton
7.
Central Arkansas Chemistry Teacher of the Year – Olga Probst
8.
Stephens Award – Amanda Muller and Terri Swedenburg
9.
Top STEM Students in Arkansas – Ryan Wheeler, Katelyn Lyles and Alex Bratton pictured with teacher Michelle Irby, Governor Asa Hutchinson and First Lady Susan Hutchinson
6
7
26
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2015
3
5
8
9
Nonprofit U.S. Postage PAID Permit #1568 Little Rock, AR
Little Rock Christian Academy 19010 Cantrell Road • Little Rock, AR 72223
at LRCA
August 17 - New Family Parent Orientation, Warrior Hall, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. SOS New High School Student Party, High School Commons, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. August 18 – Meet Your Teacher and Locker Set-Up 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. August 20 - First Day of School - Early Dismissal Elementary - 12:00 p.m. MS, JH, HS -12:15 p.m.