SPRING 2020
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
A LETTER FROM
Publisher Phillip Bridges
DR. ARNOLD
Editors Heather Bennett Phillip Bridges Sheri Swindler
"Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." Psalm 90:12
Graphic Designer Karen Mitchell Contributors Dr. Gary Arnold Heather Bennett Phillip Bridges Bekah Johnson Caroline Phillips Photographers Sarah Crabill Tyler Eatherton Phil Hobby Heather Jenkins Lela & Lyla Cover Photo by Sarah Crabill Little Rock Christian Academy Mission Statement To serve families, churches and the community by providing a PK-12th grade education, characterized by excellence in the pursuit of truth from a Christ-centered worldview.
Time. Our national situation has given us a deeper understanding of time. As followers of Jesus, we are more aware than ever of the brevity of life and the reality of eternity. We recall the words of Moses who prayed, “Teach us to number our days aright …” He finished the sentence by praying “… that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12) Whether it be quarantine or social distancing, our routines have been rocked and we become much more aware of our days. In some ways they slow down; in other ways, they speed up. But, each day becomes more real. We use our time differently. We look at the clock and the calendar differently. And, like Moses, if our ears and eyes are open to God, we are gaining a heart of wisdom. When we come out of this crisis we should live our lives differently, more wisely. Months back, we ordered a tall, welcoming village clock to be placed in the Arena circle. The Warrior green timepiece was to be erected the week our campus was closed. So, we waited for the right time to set the clock high above the circle. In effect, the clock has become a symbol for 2020. We wait; we number our days; we are reminded of time; we are more appreciative of time together; we are wiser about how we use time. The Warrior family who gifted us with the clock was thanking us for their time at LRCA. Now, the gift means even more. It means: “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” That’s TIMELY and TIMELESS TRUTH!
Little Rock Christian Academy 19010 Cantrell Road Little Rock, Arkansas 72223 501-868-9822 www.LittleRockChristian.com Gary B. Arnold Head of School / President @ArnoldDrLRCA
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IN THIS ISSUE ELEMENTARY The House of Love Takes a Detour 4-5
See A Need - Fill A Need
MIDDLE SCHOOL Spring Snapshots from the House of Joy
PARENT TEACHER FELLOWSHIP FINE ARTS
6-7
JUNIOR HIGH
18-20
ATHLETICS
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
HIGH SCHOOL
Linda Johnson’s Lasting Legacy 10-11
SENIORS Class of 2020 Highlights
12-13
Destination Graduation
14-15
ADVANCEMENT Families Helping Families
21-25
Junior High Takes Student Engagement To New Heights 8-9
House of Warriors: We’re All In This Together
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17
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Scott Caldwell: A Servant Heart for All Seasons 26-27 28-29
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ALUMNI NEWS Healthcare Heroes: Alumni Faces on the Frontlines
30-33
ALUMNI NEWS Once a Warrior Always a Warrior
34-35
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THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2020
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ELEMENTARY THE WAY
JOHN 8:32 JOHN
JOHN
THE TRUTH
14:6
17:3 THE LIFE EXIT ONLY
The House of Love Takes a Detour A planned road trip, a surprise detour, and unexpected blessings
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By Phillip Bridges, Director of Marketing and Communications
April 24th, 2020 - The Elementary School had plans for their biggest Grandparents Day yet! The theme was set (ROAD TRIP!) and this was going to be the first Grandparents Day in the brand new Warrior Arena. When the day came it was even a perfect 75 degrees in Little Rock. But like so many things this semester, plans were halted and the route for Grandparents Day took a detour. Back in summer 2019, Ann Chami, Head of Lower School, had the idea for a Road Trip theme for the entire Elementary Building. The theme would mirror Dr. Arnold’s school-wide theme of Three Things. Jesus is the Way (John 14:6), the Truth (John 8:32), and the Life (John 17:3). Little did Mrs. Chami know that the planned road trip would not quite go as planned. Everything changed the third week in March when due to safety concerns regarding COVID-19, Little Rock Christian switched from in-class instruction to AMI (Alternative Method of Instruction). There were suddenly so many questions among LRCA administrators and teachers as well as parents. “How do we continue the mission of LRCA virtually? How do teachers continue to pour into students without a daily faceto-face? How do you replicate an Ann Chami prayer at home?” From daily videos of morning devotions and bedtime stories to homeroom Zoom sessions, Elementary teachers did not miss a beat! "We went from business as usual to a full-time production studio cranking out multiple videos for our students each day," says
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Mrs. Crabill, Director of Elementary Student Life. “We knew we had to get our teachers in front of kids even if we couldn’t be together in person.” During such a unique and uncertain time, Elementary brought a sense of calm and normalcy to each family’s new routine. Students opened each day with Mrs. Chami’s morning devotional and prayer, spent time on their individual classroom assignments, then closed out the day with a video bedtime story - a surprise guest reader each night. In the midst of the uncertain and challenging times, God has provided many unexpected blessings. This can be seen in the extra time families have had together, collaboration among teachers, and having fun with themes and project-based learning. Mrs. Chami said it best in one of her morning devotionals to students, “Things didn’t go as planned for our road trip. Things didn’t go as planned for our school year. God’s plans are not always our plans. Sometimes God’s plans are different. It can make us sad when we don’t understand. Feelings are okay - but what we do with our feelings is what we have to be careful of. God’s plans are always best because God always does what is right. While we didn’t get to finish the road trip we can trust God’s plans, because God’s going to do what’s right. God always does what’s best. We are on a new trip! Not what we thought, but God is leading and we will follow his plan together…”
ELEMENTARY
What Parents Said About AMI Y'all are doing a FANTASTIC job and we love the morning devos with you :) - Cathy Gamill
The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps. Proverbs 16:9
Thank you for all the devotionals and the bedtime stories. My kids love them all so much. I appreciate so much you guys going above and beyond in everything. You are all doing an amazing job. Hang in there. This too shall pass (at some point), and in the meantime, God is still on the throne and still in control. So grateful for all of you! -Julia Hughes I think that basically this is just hard on everyone. But my kiddos mostly miss their amazing school and teachers and their friends! I think that the teachers have made the most out of a very difficult situation. I’m thankful for the time that the teachers put into all of the videos and Zooms. Basically I think that you have done a great job with a hard situation. No complaints from us. -Meredith Miller I am learning so much about my girls! I have enjoyed getting to really engage with them on this level. We now are really able to continue learning throughout the day and weekend. Even though, yes, they miss being there, and yes, they miss their friends and teachers; our girls feel loved and supported by each of you! These are different times for sure! One of my favorite aspects of God is being our Provider...I love watching Him provide! It is humbling and strengthening. He has always provided everything we need and LRCA is part of that provision for us! Thank you! With a grateful heart, - Leah Reding THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2020
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MIDDLE SCHOOL
Spring Snapshots from the House of Joy
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By Heather Bennett, Communications
semester progressed with joyous outside-the-box business as usual,
“Every class had some kind of mystery to solve. In Bible, we investigated the disappearance of Jonah, and in language arts, we investigated an act of vandalism. When we walked into science class, the song, “Who Let the Dogs Out,” was playing. Mrs. Glover said that we were going to learn about our new pet dog. We had been studying about DNA, and we were given an envelope with DNA strips. We had to combine and look at those strips to see what our new dog would be like. Then we drew our dogs.”
middle school education transformed in ways not anticipated. The
-Allison Lank, 6th grade
In Warriorville, the Middle School is lovingly referred to as the House of Joy and with good reason. Exuberance fills classrooms and hallways as students, faculty, and staff immerse themselves in high octane education. Throughout the year, students engage in “transformation days” where the whole building or a classroom undergoes a thematic metamorphosis to bolster skills in math, science, language arts, and more. As the spring
outcome, nonetheless, was a thing of beauty! Classroom Transformation days have included Mystery Day, S'more Math Review, Prepositional Sports Challenge, and "Sweet Shoppe" Fractions to name a few. Mystery day certainly cracked the code on the fun of learning. Students became detectives investigating clues and details in order to complete an assigned task.
“In every single class, we had to find clues of some kind. In math, we had to work many calculations to solve the case of the missing mayor. In history, we decoded names and did stations of states. In language arts, we decoded commas using M&Ms. My favorite part of the day was dressing up in a wig and detective goggles. Coach Risher also created a mystery for us to solve. I really liked being able to tell him that we figured it out.” -Skeet Boshears, 5th grade
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MIDDLE SCHOOL
Spiritual Equipping Week focused on Phlippians 4:8, “Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” What it means to be true, just, and pure were delved into deeply. High School students visited and conducted small group devotionals and discussions. Middle school students examined the concept of not conforming to this world and guarding their hearts and minds. Later, a large group of middle schoolers attended Space Camp in Alabama, while others took part in learning adventures in central Arkansas. Around this same time, life changed drastically. The concept of AMI became the word du jour. Although the learning venue changed from the LRCA campus
to students’ homes, the goal was the same. “Through everything we wanted our students to still receive their education and feel connected. We strived to maintain unity through our house system and by using platforms such as Gimkit, Padlet, and FlipGrid for community building with all students. We were still the House of Joy,” Mrs. Murry says with a smile. Middle school faculty worked hard to keep the enthusiasm for learning level high. AMI engagement themes included LRCA Family Edition of Minute to Win It, National Scrabble Day, Virtual Spirit Week, All Star Teacher Appreciation Day, and Kindness Bingo. “We encourage our students over and over again to be the hands and feet of Jesus. These students have such servant hearts. During AMI, a student made masks to give away. Students were building things with their parents, writing letters to essential workers and nursing home residents, and helping around the house. They were looking for every opportunity to serve,” shares Mrs. Murry. Caitlin Jones, 6th grade English teacher, says jokingly of AMI, “My favorite part was my sweatpants!” But seriously shares, “We try to be so hands-on and non-traditional to engage our students. It was challenging to replicate that, but I was able to see just how much kids really love school and being in the classroom. I’m so thankful for technology. Kids were engaged and asking questions. We were able to continue relationships. Students would email me, ‘We miss you.’” Whether physically on campus or joined virtually, the House of Joy’s spring semester was one of transformational spiritual and educational growth. THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2020
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JUNIOR HIGH
Junior High Takes Student Engagement To New Heights
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By Caroline Phillips, 7th Grade History Teacher
After attending the fantastical Ron Clark Academy last spring, reading Hope and Wade King’s The Wild Card this summer, and really just having Tyler Eatherton as a principal, it would be a real feat to not have grown as an engaging educator in the past year. In fact, I think I would have had to shut my eyes, cover my ears, and dig my heels in to get away from it. Growth in this area is simply a by-product of working in the Junior High at Little Rock Christian Academy. As a result, student engagement is part of what makes the Junior High the House of Enthusiasm! Focusing on student engagement means that with everything you plan and do as a teacher, you’re constantly thinking about the degree to which those activities and interactions will “hook” your students. That sounds violent, but I promise you it isn’t! Take my class as an example. I teach history to seventh graders. Most of them are not naturally pumped to hear about things like the Middle Ages or the Age of Exploration or even the world wars. Trust me,
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they are completely content making faces at each other, dreaming about lunch, and coming up with the next hilarious thing to say. So, it’s my job to not only present the content to them, but to do so in a way that gets them involved in the process. Do I succeed everyday? Definitely not! You need only to ask my own students. But I would be willing to bet they would also tell you about the time they reenacted the Crusades with Marvel men, mapped out the routes of the explorers with yarn onto my wall-sized map of the world, and probably what they learned about their own families related to World War II. These were the kinds of days that made us all smile. Creating an engaging lesson does take some planning, but not much more than any other type of lesson. Think about it. Creating slideshows of notes (which I still do from time to time), burying students with mounds of worksheets (which the TEACHER has to grade), and designing written assessments still consumes large amounts of time and effort to create and grade. In those instances,
JUNIOR HIGH
it’s a given that the students will surely hate it (well, there are a few gems who just love a good essay) and you will spend hours grading. But…will you be sure they have learned anything? All you have to go by are their written answers versus your answer key. Could they have just misread the question or gotten lucky on a multiple choice test? And more importantly, where’s the love of learning in that anyway? If you can switch your focus as a teacher to think like a thirteen-yearold (in my case), you instantly become a lot more creative! “What is cool about this?” “How can we play?” “What information really needs to stick and what can be presented but not required for memory?” When you see them walk around your “Renaissance Art Museum” correctly identifying pieces and artists OR when you hear them explaining to each other how the discovery of iron changed the game for early Africans OR you watch them make connections to medieval feudalism over a handful of jelly beans - the teacher slowly fades into the shadows, while the young minds rise to the challenges for which she has equipped them. I am no expert (and I do have plenty of multiple choice questions on my tests), but I have put an emphasis on sprinkling in those carefully crafted moments in my classroom - the ones that leave my students with a tangible memory connecting laughter and creativity to “boring” ol’ world history. My hope is that what they remember of my classroom is a time where they were pushed to grow and create and a time where they were seen and loved by a teacher who absolutely adores them! THE WARRIOR • SUMMER 2020
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HIGH SCHOOL
House of Warriors: We’re All In This Together
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By Heather Bennett, Communications
Like an opening tip off, J-Term jump started the spring semester with high energy endeavors. High school arts, academics, and athletics were going strong as the basketball Homecoming theme was set as Disney’s “High School Musical”. Less than a month after senior Marisa Kuhn was crowned queen, the movie’s hit song “We’re All In This Together” seemed to be more than a spirited halftime dance, but also a deeply felt mantra for our school, our community, and our world. Monitor and adjust is a common phrase in education that rings true for LRCA as faculty and leadership work to continually observe the state of things and seek proactive ways to adapt successfully. The world situation in early spring called for swift but meaningful adjustments. Dr. Justin Smith, Head of Upper School, explains, “We worked together to maintain excellence through innovation and resilience.” Jennifer Byrd, BSE, MA, teaches AP English Language and Composition, and concurrent college credit Comp I and II. She shares in her own words how academic rigor as well as relationships were maintained and flourished during AMI.
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HB: How did you approach AMI with academic excellence in mind? JB I wanted to keep up the rigor of my courses as much as possible JB: while also figuring out different ways to connect with my students and meet their needs. Each of my courses has a specific end goal. For example, my AP Language students still needed to be ready for the AP exam in May. It helped for me to focus on this end goal as much as possible. HB: In what ways did you continue to challenge students? JB My students were still required to produce the same end goal work, JB: but I tried to eliminate anything that wasn't specifically connected to this outcome. For example, since my AP Language students would only be required to write one essay for their exam instead of three, I focused mostly on preparing them for that essay. My Comp II students needed to produce a novel analysis research paper, so we focused on refining the skills needed for that paper. HB: What philosophical changes did you have to make? JB I had to rethink the way I connect with students so that I could help JB: them. For example, I usually have one-on-one writing conferences with each of my Comp students as they're refining their research papers. I had to come up with a new way to accomplish this. I set
HIGH SCHOOL "Brave New World" Photo Essay by Anna Maack
up individual 10-minute Zoom conferences for each student, after I had a chance to read their rough drafts, and I went over three things each student could do to improve their papers. Even though this gave me a limited amount of time to work with each student, it required me to be laser-focused to make the best use of my time.
discussed quite a bit was the need to be flexible and change based on student needs. I tried to remember this and learn from it throughout our AMI instruction time. I will definitely change quite a few things if we have to revisit AMI in the future. I am learning some new methods and programs over the summer that will hopefully help even more.
HB: What were the challenges you experienced? Creative solutions?
HB: Please describe any positive, beautiful outcomes?
JB One of the biggest challenges was trying to conduct class Harkness JB: discussions over Zoom. The format is really difficult for oral discussions, and many of my attempts fell flat. I found that if I modified the traditional class discussion for a digital discussion board, the outcome was more positive. One added benefit was that a few of my quieter students who struggle in Harkness discussions participated more in the online discussion boards.
JB I received several sweet and encouraging notes from my students JB: that I will treasure for a long time. The kids usually surprised me by letting me know that something I thought wasn't working had actually helped them. Two notes from students were particularly encouraging. One young lady told me she found herself looking forward to the novel we were reading, even though she didn't think she enjoyed reading. Another student really blossomed in her writing abilities when we were able to eliminate the extra assignments and focus on one style of writing.
HB: How has the ability to pivot as a teacher been beneficial? JB I took a course just last year for my masters program called "Online JB: Writing Instruction." I honestly didn't think I would get a chance to use it, but I used almost everything I learned in that class! One thing we
Congratulations to all of the high school students, faculty, and staff for persevering together and finishing the school year in true House of Warriors fashion!
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SENIORS
CLASS OF 2020 HIGHLIGHTS
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LRCA students gained acceptance into 105 colleges in 30 states and the District of Columbia. Columbia 95% of the Class of 2020 qualified for academic scholarships. The Class of 2020 received overr $18.4 million dollars in scholarship offers. 13 members of this year’s class were eligible for the Governor’s Distinguished Scholarship valued at $40,000 over 4 years for each student and applicable to any college or university in Arkansas. For the third consecutive year, an LRCA grad will attend a service academy (Brooke Brooke Green, U.S. Naval Academy). Academy For the second consecutive year, an LRCA grad will enlist in the armed services (Seth Seth McCullough, U.S. Army). Army We had our first ever students accepted to Harvard University, University Barnard College at Columbia University University, Centre College College, Clemson University, University of Florida University Florida, Gettysburg College College, University of Hawaii-Manoa, Wake Forest University Hawaii-Manoa University, among many more. We also had our first acceptances in a while to schools like Davidson College College, Florida State University University, Full Sail University University, Furman University University, North Carolina State University University, University of Mobile Mobile, Virginia Tech University University, and Washington and Lee University, as well as several others. University LRCA is also seeing its first-ever matriculants to schools like Colorado School of Mines, Mines Georgetown University, University and Georgia Institute of Technology among many other fine institutions. Our award for Furthest Grad is Braxton Peel, Peel headed to San Diego State University in sunny Southern California - 1,642 miles away. Award for the most applications was a tie this year - Ella Beth Wengel & William Wood both had 12 applications. applications The Class of 2020 averaged 3 applications per student. Our students received offers for several major scholarships including Honors College Fellowships at the University of Arkansas, Trustee Scholarship at Harding University, Arkansas University full tuition at the Naval Academy, Academy and the Regent’s Gold Scholarship among many other academic, academic athletic athletic, and artistic scholarship packages packages.
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129 seniors will attend 35 different colleges and universities. 70% will remain in-state; 30% will venture out of state. Graduates will attend school in 18 different U.S. states and the District of Columbia. Columbia 16% of seniors will be the only member of LRCA in their freshman class. 16 students will continue on as student-athletes & 1 will join the Arkansas Razorback Marching Band Guard. Guard 44 students will attend the University of Arkansas, the highest instate total. More than 10 students will attend each of Arkansas State University, University of Central Arkansas, and Ouachita Baptist University. 4 will attend Baylor, the largest contingent out of state for the second year in a row; followed by 3 each to Belmont, Ole Miss, Samford, and TCU. 1 student will attend the most selective all women’s college in the country. 21 students have elected to attend a Christian college or university. In terms of intended majors: • 27 STEM fields • 6 psychology • 9 business fields • 9 art or design • There are 2 each with interest in history and political science. • Another 3 have declared majors in English or Journalism. • 62 students have either undecided or undeclared majors. • Finally, we have a student pursuing a double major in Social Media Management & Songwriting.
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Valedictorian Jonathan Thomas Chamblee VA Polytechnic Institute and State University
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Salutatorian Kate Barnes Washington and Lee University
SENIORS
CONGRATULATIONS CLASS OF 2020 William Gaston Allen, IV - Texas Christian University (Baseball) Elizabeth Claire Anderson - University of Arkansas Raymond Riley Ashmore - University of Arkansas Joshua Marley Baker - University of Mississippi Kate Ellen Barnes - Washington and Lee University (Cross Country) Scarlet Avery Bates - Ouachita Baptist University Katherine Grace Beach - Baylor University Matthew Scott Bennett - Hendrix College (Football) Luke Tristan Bessire - Liberty University Elizabeth Hale Booth - University of Arkansas (Marching Band) Sophie Lillian Brandt - Arkansas State University Ryan Barrett Brower - University of Central Arkansas AnnaLee Caroline Brown - Arkansas State University Undre Rhyjell Brunson, Jr. - Arkansas State University Eve Marie Burkett - University of Arkansas Elijah James Carpenter - Arkansas State University Jonathan Thomas Chamblee - VA Polytechnic Institute and State University Rachel Leigh Chrisman - University of Arkansas Cheyenne Alicia Collins - University of Central Arkansas Derek Jesse Converse - Arkansas State University Natalie Erin Corley - University of Arkansas Ashlyn Brooke Davis - University of Central Arkansas Lawrence Arnette Davis, IV - Ouachita Baptist University Erin Claire Day - Studio School Los Angeles Kendall Paige Dedrick - University of Arkansas Hailey Nicole De La Torre - University of Arkansas James Pearson Dennis - Harvard University (Football) Heidi Grace Denny - Baylor University Edward Clark Dickey - University of Arkansas Georgia McRae Dillard - University of Arkansas Joli Elizabeth Dobbins - Samford University Jordan Christopher Dollar - Full Sail University Annelise Elizabeth Duke - Arkansas State University Ginny Ryan Dunn - University of Arkansas John Collier East - Southern Methodist University Hadley Gabrielle Ezell - University of Central Arkansas William Chad Fason - Arkansas State University Claire Elizabeth Ferguson - University of Arkansas William Dean Garland - Rhodes College Thomas Graeme Garner - Harding University Akeem J’ron Gilmore - Missouri Southern State University (Football) Kendel Stuart Givens - Ouachita Baptist University (Football) Patrick Daniel Gladden - Huntingdon College (Lacrosse) Brianna Britney Graggs - Hendrix College Brooke Susanne Green - United States Naval Academy Lily Margaret Greenway - Texas Christian University Lillian Barrett Gregg - University of Arkansas Anna Viola Griffin - University of Missouri Millison Marie Guenther - Arkansas State University Mary McKenna Harkins - Arkansas State University Brendyn Andre Harris - University of Mississippi Katie Brooke Henry - Ouachita Baptist University Luke Aaron Henry - Baylor University Sean Christopher Hightower - University of Central Arkansas (Football) Kaylee Anne Hopper - University of Central Arkansas Emma Charlotte Huchingson - University of Arkansas James Augustine Ivester - University of Arkansas Margaret Ann Jackson - Ouachita Baptist University Benjamin Guss James - Colorado School of Mines (Football) Elijah Connor Johns - Arkansas State University Kyzer Joseph Johnston - University of Central Arkansas Jordan Charles Jones - University of Oklahoma Lilium Rain Katheryn Jones - University of Central Arkansas Riley William Jones - University of Arkansas Miller Hamilton Karrh - Samford University (Football) William Parker Kerfoot - University of Arkansas Emma Katherine Knecht - Belmont University Marisa Kate Kuhn - University of Arkansas Luke Patrick Longworth - University of Arkansas
Philip Mason Lynn - University of Central Arkansas Anna Kathryn Maack - Belmont University Maxwell Thomas Malmstrom - University of Arkansas Grayson Heath McCarver - University of Central Arkansas Max Christopher McClendon - Wake Forest University Seth Joseph McCullough - United States Army Stuart Gavin McGilvray, Jr. - Auburn University Jaylen Danielle McGowan - University of Central Arkansas Maxwell Aubrey Meyers - University of Arkansas Quinn Avery Mitchell - University of Arkansas Allison Grace Mooney - Ouachita Baptist University Taylor Nicole Moran - Ouachita Baptist University Bo Jaden Morton - University of Arkansas Anna Lee Murry - Arkansas State University Kristina Alexis Northington - University of Arkansas Olivia Elise Olsen - University of Arkansas Yasmin Brennae Ott - Georgetown University (Basketball) Emma Claire Otwell - University of Central Arkansas Jackson Henry Paczewitz - University of Arkansas Matthew Dowell Parker - University of Arkansas Joshua David Parker-Phelps - University of Arkansas Braxton Nicole Peel - San Diego State University Sara Katherine Peeler - University of Arkansas Claire Marie Perkins - Baylor University (Dance) Shelby Grace Pfeiffer - Samford University Jack Oliver Phillips - University of Arkansas Elijah Temple Pierce - Louisiana State University Emma Kate Piercy - Hendrix College Andrea Lin Pope - Arkansas Tech University Ashton McKinley Price - Ouachita Baptist University Emma Kathlyn Proctor - University of Arkansas Coleman Wade Reynolds - University of Arkansas Victoria Nicole Roach - Texas Christian University Ashlynne Renee Robeson - University of Arkansas Andrew Jamel Rodgers, III - University of Central Arkansas Karen Joy Rush - University of Central Arkansas Keaton Scott Rypkema - Auburn University Samuel Houston Scott - Ouachita Baptist University Julia Ashlynn Grace Shamlin - University of Central Arkansas Samantha Rae Shaw - University of Mobile (Soccer) Anna Catherine Shewmake - University of Arkansas Bret Adams Smith - University of Arkansas Gracie Susannah Smith - Ecclesia College (Softball) Hailey Renae Smith - University of Arkansas Erica Katherine Stilwell - Ouachita Baptist University Darby Amanda Stotts - Arkansas State University (Soccer) Emily Frances Strauss - University of Arkansas Jackson Patrick Terry - Georgia Institute of Technology Mackenzie Grace Tingle - University of Arkansas Hannah Claire Tomlinson - University of Arkansas Maximus Taylor Trieschmann - Ouachita Baptist University Alexander-Emmanuel La’Dre Veasey - Arkansas State University Chloe Grace Watkins - University of Mississippi Jaella Elizabeth Wengel - Barnard College Spencer Douglas Whipple - University of Arkansas Eden Bliss Wilkerson - Belmont University Zachary Taylor Wingfield - University of Arkansas William Wellons Wood - University of Arkansas Ernest Jackson Woodard - University of Arkansas (Football) Anna Elizabeth Young - Arkansas State University Leah Jean Zieske - University of Arkansas THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2020
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SENIORS
Destination Graduation 2020 By Heather Bennett, Communications
Springtime for seniors is historically chock full of events and memory making moments. Since the world situation derailed much of the school and social calendars, LRCA leadership rolled up their sleeves and worked hard to make this amazing class of seniors feel loved and extra special. One wildly popular event was the first ever Warrior Wave held the evening of Thursday, May 21. The Warrior Wave theme was beach inspired since the annual senior beach trip had to be cancelled. Warrior Wave was a parade designed specifically for seniors and their families. The evening’s honorees dressed in college t-shirts and beachy clothes, decorated their cars, and gathered in lines in the junior parking lot staging area. After all of the seniors arrived, Dr. Arnold and Dr. Smith, donning suits and tropical accessories, led the parade on their bicycles.
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Island music played while all of the vehicles made their way through campus. Personalized senior signs, balloons, water toys and floaties galore lined the parade route along with a throng of faculty and staff shouting their support and love for the seniors. The well oiled machine made its way to the Indoor Athletic Facility and the Elementary for a candy stop. Then seniors received beach balls and bubble wands at the gym. As seniors rounded past Warrior Hall, there was a photo stop by the bridge where all were photographed to commemorate the occasion. As the parade continued into the high school parking lot, Senior Awards were handed out to all. They looped in front of the Arena and then headed to the gatehouse to exit campus. Dr. Arnold and Dr. Smith were waiting there to give every senior a personalized LRCA beach towel and lots of well wishes. It was definitely a great day to be a Warrior!
SENIORS
Warrior Arena marks the final stop in Warriorville for the Class of 2020. With limited capacity as designated by the Arkansas Department of Health, Commencement will be held on Saturday, July 25, for graduates and their parents, step-parents, or guardians. The event will be live
streamed on WarriorVision. After graduation, these extraordinary young men and women will embark on their next adventures beyond the gates of Little Rock Christian. We can’t wait to see what God has in store for them. Oh, the places they will go!
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ADVANCEMENT
Families Helping Families
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By Dr. Gary B. Arnold, Head of School
Families helping families. Those three words define the thrust of our fundraising for the coming year. We are convinced this is the season for giving to assist families who have been severely impacted by the global pandemic of 2020. For years, our Annual Fund goals have targeted things that would enhance our school programs and improve the educational experience at LRCA. Warrior Blitz, year-end giving, Parent Teacher Fellowship, Friends of the Arts, Warrior Club all combined each year to make us stronger. Resoundingly, we thank you for your annual giving to the mission of our school. How can we pursue “things” in this historic season of family needs? Our focus needs to be and will be making sure children can continue to experience the love of Jesus and grow in favor with God at school. Still, we are indebted to you for your generous giving to our Annual Fund year after year – especially the energizing gifts of BLITZ. In year’s past, your contributions have allowed us to purchase: • Chromebooks • Elementary student desks (2nd - 4th) • Singapore Math curriculum and Singapore Math teacher training • Groundsmart green rubber mulch for elementary playground • A/V for Warrior Hall • Drama lights for Warrior Hall • “Project Lead the Way” engineering curriculum • Middle School / Junior High playground equipment • Harkness furniture in the High School
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Harkness training Octoball pits Volleyball sets Soccer goals “Farm to Fork” organic garden expansion New roof for Wee Warriors Daycare iPads and iPad carts for elementary Remodeling of Academic Research Center New outdoor public address speakers Promethean interactives for elementary STEM 3D printer for elementary STEM Funds toward a school bus Campus security enhancements Early childhood playground equipment Learner Services technology Fine Arts supplies and enrichments Professional Development for teachers “Capstone” supplies …and more!
That said, this year – given the obvious needs of our families - our Annual Fund and Blitz efforts will be directed to “Families Helping Families.” Of course, if there are additional hopes on your heart, give to prompting of your heart. Either way, your gifts are gifts to the Lord. We are His warriors and we are assured in Scripture that “in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer.” (Romans 8:37) This includes Covid-19.
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PTF
See A Need - Fill A Need The Heart of the Parent Teacher Fellowship By Heather Bennett, Communications
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While looking around the LRCA campus one would be hard pressed to miss something or someone who has been touched by the work of the Parent Teacher Fellowship (PTF). Fellowship is defined as a friendly association of those with shared interests. The PTF is just that, a fellowship of parents and teachers working together in the best interest of Warriorville. The PTF is led by a board of volunteers that work with fellow parents, faculty, staff, and businesses to help all of our students flourish while receiving the highest quality Christian education. Each year the PTF prayerfully examines the challenges and needs of our school. Although the first half of the 2020 school year was similar to earlier years, the latter half was uncharted waters. The courage and commitment of the PTF Board and volunteers were not shaken though. They adjusted to the situations before them and shone a bright light on potentially dark times.
Warrior Run Co-Chair Courtney Head explains, “When planning this year's PTF fundraiser we were looking for an event that people of all ages could rally around. As we brainstormed, the idea of doing a 5K and Fun Run came up. We enlisted Bill Torrey who owns Rock City Running and has 30 years of racing experience to help. There were 287 registered participants for our first ever Warrior Run 5K and Fun Run! We were so grateful to our generous sponsors who helped us raise just under $25,000. Though we were disappointed to not be able to host the event, we were so thankful for the support and enthusiasm we received for the 5K. Once school resumes we will get the race shirts and packets out to the 5K participants.”
When the pandemic’s progression loomed to alter the course of the school year in many ways, the PTF Board was especially mindful of its impact on the Class of 2020. PTF President Elect, Suzanne Waters, contacted current board leadership with an idea to encourage and celebrate seniors. She proposed creating personalized yard signs for each senior. Suzanne worked with Head of School Executive Assistant Debbie Baer and LRCA’s Graphic Designer Karen Mitchell to create the perfect design. Two sets were produced. One set was safely delivered to each of the 130 seniors’ homes, while the other set was arranged around campus for the Warrior Wave event. The seniors were surprised and grateful for the keepsakes assuring them they were loved and being thought of during this difficult time. In early spring, large events were cancelled to promote safety for Warriors and the world as a whole. Therefore, the PTF’s Warrior Run came to a standstill. Excitement and gratitude were unstoppable though. THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2020
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STUDENT ART
Samantha Shaw BEST ADVANCED CERAMICS
Ashton Price BEST BEGINNING CERAMICS
"Sinking Deep" by Natalie Corley BEST MIXED MEDIA
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"Forgetting" by Allie Mooney BEST ILLUSTRATION, BEST OF SHOW
"Athen" by Eden Wilkerson BEST DRAWING COLOR
STUDENT ART
"Eroded Pencil" by Mason Mezel BEST DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY
"Dragon Fly" by Emma Otwell BEST SENIOR PORTFOLIO INDIVIDUAL PIECE
"Young Silence" by Callie Workman BEST DRAWING BLACK AND WHITE
"AF1" by Lillie Gregg BEST PAINTING
"Down the Rabbit Hole" by Alexa Strother BEST NON-FUNCTIONAL SCULPTURE
the
art show
high school art gallery
View the Full Gallery
THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2020
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FINE ARTS
JUBILEE AWARDS
Performing Arts Allie Mooney
Two Student Musicians named to International Honors Orchestra Congratulations to Junior Katelyn Lyle and Sophomore Isabella Adeola for being accepted into the Honors Orchestra this summer. They are set to travel to Vienna, Austria, in late June where they will sight-see, attend rehearsals, and perform in a concert along with select orchestra students from all over the world. Katelyn and Isabella were selected after a nomination and audition process. We are so proud of their accomplishments!
REGISTRATION OPENS JULY 1st FOR FALL 2020 Visual Arts Anna Griffin
PIANO • ART • VOICE • DANCE • THEATRE Friends of the Arts Scholarship Lily Margaret Greenway
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Private Lessons Virtual Lessons Available
Register at www.LittleRockChristian.com/FineArtsAcademy
Athletic Signings Spring Semester 2020
ATHLETICS
FEBRUARY 5, 2020
Pearson Dennis - Football Harvard University
Kendel Givens - Football Ouachita Baptist University
Chris Hightower - Football University of Central Arkansas
Jackson Woodard - Football University of Arkansas APRIL 29, 2020
Kate Barnes - Cross Country Washington and Lee University
Matthew Bennett - Football Hendrix College
Ben James - Football Colorado School of Mines
Yasmin Ott - Basketball Georgetown University
Claire Perkins - Dance Baylor University
Samantha Shaw - Soccer University of Mobile THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2020
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ATHLETICS
WARRIOR
BOYS ALL-STATE TOURNAM TOURNAMENT ENT TEAM Creed Williamson 5A ALL-STATE Layden Blocker 5A WEST ALL-CONFERENCE Layden Blocker Trey Jones Creed Williamson William Wood WARRIOR AWARD Akeem Gilmore
GIRLS ALL-STATE ALL-S TATE TOURNAMENT TEAM Ashton Elley 5A ALL-STATE Ashton Elley Yasmin Ott Wynter Rogers 5A WEST ALL-CONFERENCE Ashton Elley Isis Isom Yasmin Ott Ashlynne Robeson Wynter Rogers WARRIOR AWARD Wynter Rogers 22 THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2020
ATHLETICS WARRIOR
5A ALL-STATE Ethan Bittle Thomas Garner Brian Gittens Ben James
5A EAST ALL-CONFERENCE Joshua Baker Ethan Bittle Thomas Garner Brian Gittens WARRIOR AWARD Ben James Thomas Garner Andrew Lumpkin
WARRIOR
SWIM
5A ALL-STATE 5A WEST ALL-CONFERENCE Clara Carle Clara Carle Hannah Hall Hannah Hall Grace Heard Grace Heard Eli Johns Eli Johns Jordan Jones Jordan Jones Angel Ke Angel Ke John Isaac Majors Marisa Kuhn Aidan Ross Addison Southerland John Isaac Majors Portia Probst WARRIOR AWARD Aidan Ross Marisa Kuhn Addison Southerland Jordan Jones
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ATHLETICS
Honoring Our Spring Senior Athletes While the spring athletic season was cut short unexpectedly, it does not take away the time and dedication these Warriors put into their given sport. We honor your discipline and perseverance and are proud to call you WARRIORS.
BOYS SOCCER
JONATHAN CHAMBLEE
JOHN COLLIER EAST
LUKE HENRY
MAX MEYERS
JACKSON PACZEWITZ
LUKE LONGWORTH
GAVIN McGILVRAY
KEATON RYPKEMA
JACK TERRY
SAM SHAW
DARBY STOTTS
GIRLS SOCCER
CLAIRE FERGUSON
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BROOKE GREEN
LILLIE GREGG
ATHLETICS
BASEBALL
SOFTBALL
G ALLEN
JAMES IVESTER
JACK PHILLIPS
ANNA GRIFFIN
BRET SMITH
SPENCER WHIPPLE
JACKSON WOODARD
GRACIE SMITH
OLIVIA OLSEN
TRACK
KATE BARNES
VICTORIA ROACH
UNDRE BRUNSON
BRENDYN HARRIS
KATIE HENRY
EMMA OTWELL
ALEXANDER VEASEY
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FACULTY/STAFF
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
Head Athletic Trainer Scott Caldwell: A Servant Heart for All Seasons
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By Heather Bennett, Communications
Scott Caldwell shies away from any limelight. But whether he’s working under the Friday night lights or fishing with his daughter, Emma, his caring spirit always shines. Scott’s efforts are often behind the scenes but truly impactful nonetheless. He says even though it is hectic tending to student athletes at a 420 to 1 ratio, “My goal is to treat every child like I would treat my own.” As a Little Rock native, Scott graduated from Central Arkansas Christian where he played football, basketball, baseball, and ran track. The experiences inspired his college pursuits. “I’ve always been fascinated by health science, anatomy, and physiology, and how all the systems work together,” he explains. “I graduated with honors from UALR in 2001 with a degree in Health Science.” Scott first worked at Sheridan High School until a position opened at LRCA. “I had heard a lot of great things about Little Rock Christian and I wanted to step up and take that opportunity,” he shares. Scott began working in Warriorville in 2005. HB: Describe your work at LRCA. SC: I am Head Athletic Trainer, equipment manager outside of football, and the CPR instructor for the school. I taught a class for the first time this year called “Foundations in Sports Medicine”. It was challenging and fun. The curriculum involved the study of orthopaedics and athletics...everything from insurance to taping. Students also became certified in CPR, AED, and first aid. HB: How does being a father influence your career? SC: My duties between taking care of Emma (as a single father) and being an athletic trainer have a lot of similarities. Her health and the health of my athletes are my first priority. I try to make decisions based on if the athlete was my own child and consider how it will affect them in the future. Athletes, as well as Emma, don’t always do as they are told or follow through with the plan you lay out for them. And, I feel like I’m constantly cleaning up after them. LOL! Seriously, it has really put my priorities in perspective of what is really important in life and where to focus my energy and effort. It has taught me to live in the present while planning for the future.
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Emma was born seven weeks premature and was in the ICU for several days. At times, it was touch and go. She stayed six weeks in the hospital. She has been a student now at LRCA for the past two years. When she came over to be a Warrior, she was so introverted and shy. Emma has really blossomed here. She comes home telling me stories and we talk to each other like we’re best friends. This is a great school and I’ve seen it. HB: Favorite family moments? SC: My favorite activities with Emma include going to our annual deer camp cookout and riding our four wheeler around the lease. She really enjoys me reading her a book before bed after things slow down. She loves all animals and says she wants to be a veterinarian one day. HB: Favorite part of the day/week? SC: I’m more of an outside person, so 4th period of the day...outside at practice.
FACULTY/STAFF HB: Favorite movie? SC: American Sniper...My grandfather was in the Navy during World War II, and my dad was in the Air Force. I have great respect for the members of our military. HB: What inspires you in your work? SC: The kids. They are so talented...multi-talented. I love to see them develop and I want to do the best I can and treat them like my own child. I don’t like a lot of spotlight on me. HB: If you could be anything else, what would it be? SC: Conservation and habitat preservation are a big deal to me, so I’d say a wildlife officer with Game & Fish. HB: Coffee or tea? SC: My favorite used to be Mountain Dew, but I had to switch to coffee to keep up.
HB: What advice would you like student athletes to remember? SC: Don’t get so caught up in athletics or one sport that you don’t develop other areas of life. HB: Most difficult injuries to treat? SC: Spinal without a doubt. HB: Most common mistakes student athletes make during recovery? SC: Returning (to the sport) too early or just not following through with their rehab. HB: Most rewarding part of your job? SC: Seeing a kid on what can seem like the worst day of their life, getting injured, and then comforting and helping them get back to playing their sport. We really have great kids here! HB: Lessons you’ve learned at LRCA? SC: I’ve traveled a lot and worked a lot of hours over the years. Now that it has been taken away (due to Covid-19), I can’t interact with the kids. I think I took it for granted. I feel so sorry for the seniors. I appreciate more of what I have and had and being around others.
HB: What is something most people don’t know about you? SC: I’m terrible with technology. HB: Favorite color? SC: The first baseball team I was on had navy blue and grey uniforms. My favorite color has been navy blue ever since. HB: Favorite season? SC: Deer season. HB: What’s on your bucket list? SC: My family roots are in Scotland, so I’d love to see the culture in England and Scotland and where my family came from. HB: How would others describe you? SC: Pretty conservative, laid back, dependable, reliable, and private. HB: What are your goals for the future? SC: Doing what I’m doing...I want to continue to help kids, athletics, and LRCA any way I can.
HB: Hobbies? SC: I love deer hunting, but it’s in the middle of football season. Getting away from the city for a while with Emma gives me a chance to relax. HB: Favorite scripture? SC: It really depends on what’s going on in life at the time. Recently with everything going on around the globe, it’s been Mark 11:22-25. HB: Favorite food? SC: For special occasions it’s Japanese steakhouse shrimp and steak fried rice. THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2020
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FACULTY/STAFF
Linda with a group of students after a spelling bee in 1986
"We've Always Been Warriors"
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Linda Johnson’s Lasting Legacy
By Bekah Johnson, Advancement and Alumni Relations
In August of 1979 while LRCA (then Walnut Valley Christian Academy) was entering only its third year as a school, Linda Johnson was arriving on campus as a brand-new Warrior faculty member. Now, after 41 years of service and hundreds of students’ lives touched, Linda is hanging up her teacher and librarian hats and taking some well-deserved time for herself. We asked her to reflect on her many experiences over the years. BJ: What led you to become a teacher? LJ: Can you think of any other job where you get to spend every day learning new things with a group of people you know and love? Is there another profession where the best questions drive direction, and success is measured in the changed lives of children? Is there a career with a new start every year, where boredom is unheard of, and no two days are ever alike?
I’ve been a learner, a friend, a member of a school family, a mover of multitudes of boxes, shelves, and furniture, and an honored participant in the lives of some outstanding educators. BJ: What has been the most rewarding part of your job? LJ: Where to start? Watching the face of a student, when the eyes widen, and the smile spreads, that Light Bulb Moment when learning is almost visible, has to be the best thing. Understanding something that, a moment before, was not known is like magic. Helping children
BJ: Describe the different roles you’ve had at LRCA. LJ: Officially, I’ve been a teacher in grades one, two, and three. I have also been curriculum coordinator and then a librarian. Unofficially
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WVCA teachers Debbie Norman, Rachelle Petty Hankins, Ann Owen Chami, Linda Johnson, Linda Neaves
to read well, to love good stories, to know the beauty and power of words is deeply gratifying. Building lasting relationships with students and parents is joy. Working alongside so many talented people, learning from them, and doing life with them is food for the mind and spirit. Meeting my best friends and lifetime sisters? Priceless. BJ: You have witnessed firsthand the incredible growth of the school from the early days of WVCA to the present. Describe what that journey has been like. LJ: Like most long journeys, it has been at times exciting, surprising, joyful, tiring, difficult, and rewarding. God has blessed our school with visionary leaders from 1977 through today. I think of Pastor Bud Hart and his wife, Carolyn, whose vision and hard work led to the 1977-78 beginning of WVCA at the Bible Church of Little Rock. I joined the faculty in August 1979, along with Herb Lyon who became the administrator/headmaster. Students who were there at that time still remember Mr. Lyon’s stories from chapel and the musical programs we did. We had many volunteers, small budgets, hard work, and tons of fun. Roger Yancey came on board as we grew and urged us onward and upward. God provided the land and we stood together and prayed for the future of the school. Boyd Chitwood led us in growth and expansion of facilities and called us to excellence in the pursuit of truth from a Christcentered worldview. He handed out four diplomas at the first graduation ceremony, and we grew. Many of us will remember the Dome, and the sound of hard rain on its roof. Now Dr. Gary Arnold continues to lead and serve our school well. It’s amazing to drive onto campus and see how God has provided. Our leaders have always said, “It’s God’s school.” Through the years He has provided the hard-working staff needed for the mission. Every person served well in the positions to which they were called. We’ve always been Warriors. BJ: Fondest memories? LJ: Memories abound: First days of school come to mind, especially the one when, early in the morning, two raccoons dug through the ceiling of my classroom and little black paws were scooping the air above students’ heads. I told the class we were having a Raccoon Drill, so we lined up and left in an orderly fashion, and watched as our brave maintenance man removed the hissing critters and took them away in cages. I enjoyed making cookies with my classes for Mother’s Day Tea, and working with Ann Owen [Chami] in Building A. I will always remember the Christmas programs with “sheep” crawling down the aisle and “shepherds” following. There are so many songs and Bible verses that play in my mind from past years. I have learned much from so many dedicated teachers and staff. I’m thankful for them. BJ: What has it meant to you to have your grandchildren attend LRCA? LJ: What a joyful blessing! We have always hoped for the day when our children’s children could come to this school. It’s wonderful to see second generations of Warriors throughout the school. BJ: What do you look forward to most in your retirement? LJ: That’s unknown territory! I hope it involves more time outside, time with friends, and learning.
Lessons Learned Along the Way • •
• • • • • • • • •
Few things are necessary, really only one. Answer the important questions first: Who am I? Why am I here? Who made me? What’s going to happen to me? What is this world like? Students are often smarter than teachers. Learning never stops. We learn from everyone. Questions are more important than answers. Curiosity drives learning. We need more “Why?”, “What if…”, “I wonder…” The longer I live the more I realize how little I know. Ask for help, for wisdom to know help is needed, and for gratitude when it’s given. Mistakes are great opportunities for learning. There’s a way. Find it. Love never fails.
What does one say about Linda Johnson? Linda's love for the Lord, children and learning has taught me firsthand what a teacher is to be. Her years at LRCA have been mightily used for His kingdom and we all are better for spending them with her. - Ann Chami, Head of Lower School THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2020
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ALUMNI NEWS
Healthcare Heroes Alumni Faces on the Frontlines
By Bekah Johnson, Advancement and Alumni Relations
Lesley Charles, CRNA (’05) Baptist Health Medical Center
Haven Crabtree, RN (’13) Neurology/Neurosurgery UAMS
Caleb Craig, Pharm.D, BCPS (’04) Clinical Pharmacist, St. Joseph Hospital Denver, CO
Abby Emanuel, RN (’11) Travel Nurse, Medical Solutions
The saying is true: “Not all heroes wear capes.” Heroes also wear scrubs, lab coats, gloves, surgical masks, goggles, and face shields. While the bravery and selflessness of healthcare workers were evident before COVID-19, these medical professionals have risen to the challenge and continued to save lives even now at the risk of their own. LRCA is proud to claim many of these heroes as our alumni. Several alumni share their recent experiences here.* How has COVID-19 affected your work? Kristen: Work has changed drastically. Every aspect of patient care in the emergency department is different. From rationing out PPE and wearing masks constantly throughout our entire shift, to figuring out how to balance taking care of critically ill patients while protecting yourself. Jillian One of the ways is the elimination of visitors. Jillian: The patients in the ICU are incredibly sick and aren’t allowed to have family with them. We have had to step in and be there for these patients like their families would be. Whether this means spending extra time talking to patients, holding their hand when the times are difficult, or praying for them, we have to act as family to them. This has also been very rewarding. Knowing that, as a nurse, I am making a difference in the lives of these patients is motivation to keep working hard!
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Chase We’ve all been directly exposed to COVID Chase: patients despite our best efforts to screen and whatnot. My hospital (and the others where I work) have had to implement many different screening measures to all faculty, staff, doctors, nurses, and incoming patients in order to best limit exposure. We also haven’t been allowing any visitors of any kind into the hospital unless [the patient is] pregnant or there’s been a death, in which case they are allowed one visitor. Our ER is locked up tight and looks like how it is in all of the quarantine movies where it’s just plastic sheets and walls separating hallways and duct taped top to bottom in order to limit airflow and traffic. Lesley While the surgery caseload has been much Lesley: lower during the pandemic, our anesthesia department has been needed in some new capacities. Our group developed COVID-19 anesthesia teams that we rotate our providers through, in which we respond to and treat incoming
ALUMNI NEWS
Ben Emanuel, RN (’09) CVICU, CHI St. Vincent Infirmary
Jenna Henrich Hardy, PT, DPT (’11) Baylor Scott & White Institute for Rehabilitation - Frisco
Jessica Davis Thomason, RN, MSN (’06) TSICU/CVICU, UAMS
Jillian Massiet, RN (’12) TSICU/CVICU, UAMS
Kristen Wheeler, RN (’12) Emergency Department, UAMS
patients who are both suspected or confirmed to have COVID-19. In these situations, our roles include intubations, arterial and central line placements, etc. There is, of course, a risk for contamination when we do these procedures, so we have gone through training on how to use the proper equipment in order to keep ourselves and our patients safe. Jessica COVID-19 has affected our work mainly with the Jessica: limiting of family members in the hospital setting. Working in an ICU this has been especially difficult for patients who are unable to communicate or during end of life care. Of course, in certain instances, we have allowed minimal family, but have utilized smart devices to video chat with family members multiple times throughout the day. This has helped tremendously, but of course, is not a replacement for their loved ones' presence. What has been the most challenging part of your job these past few months? Caleb The biggest challenge we've run into in the Caleb: pharmacy is supply chain issues with breathing medications and medications that help patients tolerate ventilators that help them breathe. Some protocols have been altered to conserve drugs, but this results in patients being uncomfortable while a ventilator helps them breathe. The visitor restrictions have been emotionally challenging for many, especially for births and those at the end of life. Many family members have not been allowed to celebrate a new life added to their family
Bonnie Sullivan, M.D. (’07) Clinical Geneticist, Children’s Mercy Kansas City
Chase Wingfield, M.D. (’10) Resident Physician of Internal Medicine, Overland Park Regional Medical Center
until the baby has left the hospital. Many family members have not been allowed to be with a loved one during the last moments of their life to prevent spread of the virus. Kristen The most challenging part has been the Kristen: isolation. As an ED nurse constantly exposed to COVID patients while working on the frontlines, I have to self-isolate in order not to potentially spread the virus. I don’t see my family or friends outside of the hospital. I don’t go to the grocery store unless ABSOLUTELY necessary. I don’t do anything besides go to work and go home. The isolation is also difficult because UAMS has a no-visitor policy at the moment. Every patient we see is alone. We have to turn away the family members that so desperately want to be there for their ill loved ones. Patients that are intubated or close to dying are alone. We have become their family members. Having to break the hearts of the patients and their families has been probably the hardest part. Ben I have a one-year-old boy and my wife at Ben: home that I constantly had to worry about getting them sick. Always just feeling dirty when coming home. Another very hard thing is dealing with guilt, not being in direct patient care of the COVID patients and having very close friends and family who are dealing with it made a lot of us on our unit feel guilty.
(continued on next page)
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ALUMNI NEWS
Healthcare Heroes (continued)
Jillian Another challenge during this time is Jillian: the social isolation. Unfortunately, this time is characterized by a lot of fear. Some friends and even some family have been fearful being around healthcare workers for fear of being exposed to the virus. For this reason, my coworkers have become even more of a family than they were before. God has really blessed me with the best coworkers. We support each other and are there for each other in ways that are hard to explain. My parents have also been my rock through this time. It’s hard to imagine going through this time without them. Jessica The most challenging thing has definitely Jessica: been facilitating family presence through technology. The ICU is a very busy environment and as an RN, we have to be diligent in making time to include family. Bonnie: Trying to counsel families has become so Bonnie difficult. I give difficult diagnoses, many of which are lethal conditions. Traditionally, I have a genetic counselor with me to walk through this process and help provide support, but we cannot go together in person due to physical distancing. I just cannot give such diagnoses and counsel via telehealth because it feels so inhumane. Even when I meet with parents in person, I have to wear a mask, as do they. It is so difficult to gauge facial expressions with a mask on. I feel that the family does not always see how devastated I am to give such sad information. I am not supposed to hug a crying parent or even shake their hands, both of which were previously typical for me. We are limiting visitors here, so it is not uncommon to have only one parent with their child and have the other parent on speakerphone. I am used to talking with multiple family members and for my little patients and their parents to have such direct support. That has all changed, and I ache for my families. What has been the most rewarding part of your job these past few months? Chase: It’s been really rewarding to see the reaction that we’ve had Chase from the community and the support they’ve given us. Our [hospital] walls are painted with handwritten letters, pictures drawn from children at school, etc. thanking us for coming to work. It’s really heartwarming to feel their appreciation in keeping our community safe and healthy.
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Haven It is definitely a stressful time, but it is Haven: rewarding when you get to care for a patient with COVID-19. One in particular stood out to me. I’m sure I will never forget her. She was stable when I first assumed care of her, but she started crashing about two hours later, and she crashed fast. She woke up suddenly short of breath. All of the usual things that help patients in this situation were not helping. I called the doctor, and my patient had to make the conscious decision to be placed on the ventilator. She had no family with her and it was 4:00 in the morning. She was shaking and crying because she was so scared. I was able to hold her hand, pray with her, reassure her, and help her call her family before she was intubated. I was so thankful and grateful that I got to be a loving presence for her in one of the scariest moments of her life. Jenna Our hospital is receiving many post-positive Jenna: COVID-19 patients who were previously on a ventilator and now extremely debilitated. It has been so rewarding to help these patients regain their strength, confidence, and finally go home to their family. They usually come to us at a total assist level for all mobility. We have the opportunity to mobilize these individuals safely and maximize their functional independence upon discharge. Lesley I am very thankful to work for a group made Lesley: up of supportive people that I deeply trust and respect. While our job can certainly be stressful at times, I couldn’t ask for a better work family. Patients, COVID positive or not, have been understandably more anxious and unsure of what to expect while they’re in the hospital during this time. I hope and pray that we have done our job in answering their questions, explaining what we know at this time, and easing some of their fears and concerns. Bonnie Despite everything going on, it is amazing to Bonnie: see how patient people are and the support from the community. It is easy to get discouraged watching the news or looking at social media, but then picking up takeout for my staff is always met with a “thank you for what you do,” which is quite uplifting. I feel that the community is cheering us on.
ALUMNI NEWS Caleb Seeing people genuinely care about Caleb: minimizing harm to others has been rewarding. Most people that I see around town are generally doing a good job staying reasonably far apart and wearing masks. Seeing people offer to help has been rewarding as well, like running errands for immunocompromised friends or at-risk elderly people in the community.
Lesley I have tried to be very conscientious about Lesley: not bringing anything home with me from work. So, aside from wearing the appropriate PPE at work, I have tried to be mindful to change scrubs before I come home, disinfect what I can, and really commit to social distancing. I have a fouryear-old daughter, and her health and the health of my family have been a top priority!
How has this time affected your personal life? Abby I started travel nursing right at the start Abby: of the pandemic, so I have been away from my family since March. I’m thankful in a sense that I can be away and not expose them even though I miss them! Personally, it’s been hard being in a new city during a pandemic. Meeting new people and experiencing the city has looked a lot different than I imagined! Caleb When I look to the West and see the Rocky Caleb: Mountains, I'm sad that we can't go now. It is a reminder to be grateful for all of the fun we've had and will have in the future. We've missed going skiing since all of the ski resorts closed down, but are excited to hike in the mountains with lots of open space this summer!
Chase It would be nice to meet my friends out for Chase: dinner, though that hasn’t and can’t happen at the moment. I could also stand a nice haircut pronto. I usually get my hair cut every three weeks. Now I’m approaching four months since my last one. And, I have engagement photos coming up in a couple of weeks! LRCA extends a huge and heartfelt THANK YOU to all of our alumni working the healthcare frontlines and in other capacities where health and safety is at risk for others. You are all true Warriors. May God continue to protect you and surround you with His love and peace. *Alumni provided feedback in April 2020. Some referenced procedures and protocols may have changed since that time.
Thank you so much for supporting the Warrior Alumni Memorial Scholarship fund!
WARRIOR ALUMNI WARRIOR ALUMNI
In early spring, $5,550 was raised. These memorial funds will bless a family who has experienced a recent tragic loss by helping with tuition for the 2020-21 school year. Thank you for honoring the legacies of our beloved Warriors through this scholarship.
MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
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ALUMNI NEWS
WALKS DOWN THE AISLE
Lexy Baden Berry (Class of 2014) married Vann Berry (Class of 2012) at Chenal Country Club in LIttle Rock. The couple resides in Jackson, Mississippi.
Ashley Fleming Troillett (Class of 2013) married Peyton Troillett on November 16, 2019 at The Grandeur House in Little Rock. The couple resides in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Madison Logan Rhodes Winkler married Caleb Matthew Winkler (Class of 2015) on June 15, 2019 at Immanuel Baptist Church in Little Rock. The couple resides in Memphis, Tennessee.
Katie Harrison Weidenbenner (Class of 2006) married Weston Weidenbenner on January 4, 2020 at Calvary Baptist Church in Little Rock. The couple resides in Hot Springs, Arkansas.
Megan Edmunds Tuttle (Class of 2015) married Sam Tuttle on October 19, 2019 at Orchard Event Venue in Bentonville, Arkansas. The Tuttles reside in Rogers, Arkansas.
Once a Warrior, Always a Warrior WEDDING & BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS
Alumni updates in The Warrior magazine include current year births and wedding announcements to help fellow Warriors stay in touch. Other alumni news is shared through the LRCA website and social media. Please direct questions or send your Warrior Alumni Updates submissions to Heather.Bennett@LittleRockChristian.com. Wedding announcements need to include the bride’s and groom’s full names (including maiden), the graduation year(s), the wedding date and location, and where the couple intends to reside. Baby announcements should include both parents’ names (including maiden), the graduation year(s), the baby’s name, weight, birth date, city and state in which the baby was born.
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ALUMNI NEWS
BUNDLES OF JOY
Tori High Cochran (Class of 2006) and Kurtis Grant Cochran welcomed their second child, Gramercy Carmel Cochran (7 pounds, 3 ounces) on December 11, 2019. The Cochran family resides in LIttle Rock, Arkansas.
Hannah Moran Leonard (Class of 2009) and Matthew Leonard had their daughter Aria Kate Leonard (5 pounds, 12 ounces) on March 26, 2020. The Leonards live in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Missy Boehi O’Dell (Class of 2005) and Ryan O’Dell (Class of 2005) gave birth to Isla Kinsley O’Dell (6 pounds, 11 ounces) on April 12, 2020. The O’Dells make their home in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Anna and Tyler Rosenthal (Class of 2011) welcomed their son Graham Sikes Rosenthal (7 pounds, 8 ounces) on April 1, 2020. The Rosenthal family lives in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. Tyler’s mother, Shelley, teaches 2nd grade at Little Rock Christian.
Brandon Shearin and Ashley Stricklin Shearin (Class of 2011) gave birth to Campbell Bedford Shearon (7 pounds, 6 ounces) on May 16, 2020. The Shearin family makes their home in Dallas, Texas.
Ruthie Leggett Thicksten (Class of 2002) and Zach Thicksten welcomed their son Shepherd Zachary Thicksten (10 pounds, 3 ounces) on March 13, 2020. The Thickstens reside in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Kelsey Salman (Class of 2008) and his wife Kristyn Salman welcomed their baby girl, Kennedy Renee Salman, on August 15, 2019. The Salmans live in Dallas, Texas. Kelsey is the son of Patrick Salman, LRCA High School Director of Student Life. THE WARRIOR • SPRING 2020
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