A LETTER FROM
Publisher Phillip Bridges
DR. ARNOLD
Editors Heather Bennett Phillip Bridges Sheri Swindler Graphic Designer Karen Mitchell Contributors Dr. Gary Arnold Debbie Baer Heather Bennett Phillip Bridges June Hendren Bekah Johnson Caitlin Jones Sarah Jones Elizabeth Anne Sterling Hope Winburn Photographers Arkansas PBS Sports Sarah Crabill Tyler Eatherton
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“Whatever you do, do your work from the soul, as for the Lord rather than for men.” Colossians 3:23
Dr. Ashley Berner - colleague, research professor at Johns Hopkins University, and friend - spotlights two key indicators of a strong school culture: a common ethos and an intellectually challenging curriculum with very high standards. Although it sounds like bottled water from Starbucks, ethos is an uncommon word. Before we can determine how we fare in this regard, we need to know what it is. The dictionary defines ethos as the characteristic spirit of a culture or community as manifested in its beliefs and aspirations. So then, does Little Rock Christian exude a strong, characteristic spirit as a school community as manifested by our beliefs and aspirations? You tell me. The Golden Triangle. Warriorville. House of Love. House of Joy. House of Enthusiasm. House of Awe. House of Warriors. Christian. Independent. Collegiate. “No Jesus. No school!” Biblical Worldview. “Forward, not backwards.” “Walk worthy!” Blue Ribbon. #W. These are but a few descriptors of our strong, common, ethos driven by our beliefs and aspirations. What else comes to mind? Score: +1 point Now, the second ingredient of a strong, fruitful school culture: an intellectually challenging curriculum with very high standards. Does Little Rock Christian offer your children this aspect of an effective school? You tell me.
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. Cover Photo by Karen Mitchell
Feedback to date assures us that our metrics, peer accountability, our college placements and the children’s experience continue to validate our mission “to serve families ...by providing a K3-12 education characterized by excellence in the pursuit of truth from a Christ-centered worldview.” Score: +1 point Dr. Berner goes further. Her research zeroes in on another ingredient of a fruitful school - an open classroom climate. By that, she means a classroom where students feel safe to ask questions and test ideas; a classroom where curiosity is honored and discovery rewarded. In a soon-to-be-published book, Dr. Lynn Swaner interviews the leadership of LRCA about this very attribute. Ann Chami, LeAnn Murry, Tyler Eatherton, Dr. Justin Smith, and I all shared the same story: “Teach students how to think. Teach them the importance of asking good questions.” - Dr. Justin Smith Score: +1 point
Little Rock Christian Academy 19010 Cantrell Road Little Rock, Arkansas 72223 501-868-9822 www.LittleRockChristian.com 2 THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021
It is my constant prayer that we play well for an audience of One. Ultimately, that is all that matters. At the same time, your current LRCA experience will help us better prepare for a new decade of maturation. Let me know how we can better serve you in pursuit of our mission. Our hope remains constant - that we will be known for our Christ-centered ethos of excellence, that we will appropriately challenge your children with high expectations and that our pursuit of truth will always welcome questions, ideas, and discovery. May this issue of The Warrior display a strong school culture that exists to honor God in all that we do.
Gary B. Arnold, Ed. D. President / Head of School @ArnoldDrLRCA
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24 4 ELEMENTARY
Christmas Around The World
MIDDLE SCHOOL From "Pows" to "Wows"
IN THIS ISSUE 4-5
6-7
JUNIOR HIGH
Using Transformation Days to Transform Engagement
ATHLETICS Fall Sports Review
20-23
FINE ARTS
AP Art Classes Offer Students Collegiate Level Experience
24
New Honor Society Recognizes Student Musicians
25
8-9
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT
HIGH SCHOOL
The Heart of High School Math 10-11
LRCA Nursing Staff: The Wonder Women of Warriorville 28-29
Silver Linings and College During Covid
ALUMNI
12-13
Danny “Erlo” Erlandson: The Man... The Mind...The Memories 30-31
J-TERM
Expanding Horizons Close to Home 14-15
SPIRITUAL LIFE The Warrior Way
ALUMNI NEWS Once a Warrior Always a Warrior
16-17
ADVANCEMENT Warrior Blitz 2020 Families Helping Families
8
32-33
20
SNAPSHOTS
34-35 18-19
10
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ELEMENTARY
CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD WITH WORLD TRAVEL ON HOLD, ELEMENTARY BROUGHT THE WORLD TO LRCA
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By Phillip Bridges, Director of Marketing and Communications
Christmas in Warriorville has always been a special time of year marked by many sacred traditions, some dating all the way back to the Walnut Valley days of the school’s founding. Sadly, the pandemic put many of these traditions on hold for the 2020 Christmas season. However, this did not stop the Elementary building from celebrating in a BIG way! In a year when so many trips and travel plans were postponed, the Elementary building decided to bring CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD to Little Rock Christian Academy. On paper, the plan was simple enough; each homeroom teacher would select a country, decorate their room in the theme of that country all while learning about that country’s traditions and beliefs along the way. If elementary teachers receive a creative idea, they are going to run with it and go above and beyond. The end result was beyond anything Mrs. Chami could have anticipated. She said, “Walking up and down the halls was such a thrill, and hopping from country to country was just like being at the EPCOT World Showcase at Disney World.” In addition to decorating the classrooms, doors, and hallways, teachers came up with interactive activities for students as they “toured” the world. Mrs. Sanders’ first grade class chose Egypt and created a secret puzzle using ancient hieroglyphic symbols for other students to decode. In second grade, Mrs. Gentry’s class created a table with a traditional 4 THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021
Filipino Christmas dinner, complete with a stuffed animal pig to represent the favorite dish, lechon. Mrs. Rosenthal's class made individual artwork of the Swedish Aurora Borealis, then combined the art to hang from the ceiling as a giant installation of the Northern Lights. Mrs. Nwokoro chose
ELEMENTARY
Israel for her second graders and they created a replica of the Wailing Wall where students could write prayer requests and pin to the wall. In third grade, Mrs. Clark’s Argentina had Argentinian row houses that were used to teach area and perimeter to third grade students. Mrs. Wood asked her fourth grade class their favorite part of Christmas Around the World. They replied, “Everything! But taking a trip around the world was the best! It was fun to learn facts about different countries and their beliefs.” Students were given passports to take with them as they traveled the world and toured the 24 countries throughout the building. They got a festive Christmas sticker to mark off each country they visited. Parents were invited on the tour via Facebook Live, so they could travel along and see all of the hard work and JOY that went into the project. In addition to the fun and decorations, students took time to pray for each country represented. Since students learned about the beliefs unique to each country, they were able to pray specific requests for each country. Putting the normal traditions like Christmas musicals and Christingle on hold was hard at first, but it did not stop the House of Love from celebrating the birth of Christ in new and exciting ways.
"Among the countless new challenges and changes this school year, Christmas Around the World was a new tradition students and teachers welcomed in with open arms and enthusiastic hearts. My 2nd graders enjoyed studying the tiny but mighty country of Israel. It was incredible to learn about the place where Jesus was born, grew up, and saved the world! At a time where travel is discouraged, it sure was amazing to visit more than twenty countries. Touring the countries studied by fellow students, celebrating Jesus all along the way, was an experience these children will remember for a lifetime." - Mrs. Nwokoro, 2nd Grade Teacher
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MIDDLE SCHOOL
FROM "POWS" TO "WOWS"
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FINDING JOY IN LEARNING IN TODAY’S WORLD By Caitlin Jones, Middle School English
As a coach, I talk to my golf and softball teams about turning “pows” into “wows”. “Pows” can be areas of improvement or low moments in a golf round or game. I challenge them to reflect on the “pows” and how to change them into “wows”. Before a “pow” can change into a “wow” there has to be a mindset shift. This shift causes you to reevaluate your game plan, make changes, and improve. Through this process, you discover that on the other side you are stronger and more equipped. As the Middle School began preparing for an unprecedented school year, we knew there would be some “pows” along the way just because of changes that had to be made for the safety of our school community. Over the past two years, the Middle School has striven to develop a classroom environment that is student-centered. An environment that places the student at the center of the learning, where the student is the producer and the teacher is the facilitator. Through this focus on student engagement, the Middle School has found a new joy in learning. A joy that has deepened teacher-student relationships and turned the classroom inside out. As I tell my teams, “When the momentum shifts to the other team, our team loses ground.” We did not want to lose the momentum that had begun in Middle School. Going back to the fundamentals of structuring an effective lesson, we reflected on where to start. We began with writing essential questions to match our standards that would help us maximize and structure the learning time in the classroom. Recognizing this we knew we had to tweek old strategies and find new creative ones to ensure that we continued to foster collaboration, communication, and creative 6 THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021
thinking. It was important to us that the joy of learning remained at the forefront of the school year. As you walk the hallways of the Middle School you will find that social distancing and masks have not stopped students from engaging in learning opportunities, such as solving ratio problems in math with fruit loops, having hearty Harkness discussions, collaborating on group projects, dissecting sheep brains, and future meteorologists giving the daily weather report. Moving the classroom outdoors has given students the space to work together and move. This also has opened the door for virtual students
MIDDLE SCHOOL
to join the learning on campus which is always met with smiles and laughs from the students. Chalk has been a handy tool this year. Math has used it to work problems on the sidewalk. Language Arts used chalk to demonstrate the theme and characters of their book club books in murals in the parking spaces. Science labs have been brought to life outside too. Fifth-grade students practiced the steps of the scientific method by exploding sodas, leaving the parking lot sticky for days. The sixth graders prepared chemical and physical reaction labs in teams, then demonstrated them in real-time outdoors for their peers. This has been a year of firsts. Our wonderful technology team worked so hard to equip each middle school student with a personal Chromebook. We are so thankful for this tool in our classrooms. To prepare the students for this new responsibility of their own school device, we had a snow day! We transformed the Middle School into a winter wonderland, got cozy in our “Zoom attire” (school uniform on top and comfort on the bottom), and had our own virtual day at school. The students learned how to Zoom, and how to be professional on camera and through email.
advisory period last year, the renamed and rebranded advisory time now called Compass (Community, Others, Myself, Planning, Academics, Spiritual, Support) serves as a model for developing deep relationships between students and teachers. Though the 2020-2021 school year was met with many challenges and with no road map, the Middle School’s dedication to high engagement and finding joy in learning has remained the number one priority. The “More Than Conquerors” theme this year has resonated with me as I think about turning “pows” into “wows” and conquering the unknown. Because of these challenges, I have become a stronger teacher. Even when the dust settles and the current safety restrictions are no longer required, my mindset on teaching and learning (in the words of Elphaba from Wicked) has been “changed for good.”
Changes in schedule and routine can sometimes create new, unexpected opportunities. We were disappointed about not being able to worship together in Warrior Hall, but the format change of chapel and moving lunch to the classroom have created intentional opportunities for conversation between students and teachers. Although teachers were initially concerned that the masks and social distance would hinder getting to know the students, teachers actually feel a stronger connection because of the increased opportunities for building community. While changes were made mid-year to the THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021 7
JUNIOR HIGH
USING TRANSFORMATION DAYS TO TRANSFORM ENGAGEMENT
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By Hope Winburn, Junior High English
“What is going on?” Music pulses over the loudspeakers as a blue glow and fog permeate the hallways. Students excitedly chatter as their bright eyes sweep across the lockers, taking in the rogue footprints and fingerprints plastered across every available surface. “There was a murder in Room 603.” Uncertainty and anticipation are palpable in the air, a feat for any junior high at 8:00 a.m. No yawns, no sluggish sleepwalking to first block. Instead of another dreary Monday, the adventure and mystery of Detective Day await students in every classroom. They will be asked to use inferring skills to unravel the clues of a murder mystery in English, complete a scavenger hunt in Science, and unwrap the riddles of complex equations in Math. Transformation days draw students into the learning experience, permitting their imaginations to reignite. When students are engaged and eager to participate in the lesson, learning can go beyond standards and objectives. Curiosity is awakened, critical thinking is sparked, and the door to student ownership is opened. Transformation days can take all forms and serve many different purposes. Last year, there were three transformation days in the Junior High, including National Dessert Day, Exercise Your Mind Day, and Future Teachers of America Day. National Dessert Day served as a day to lighten the mood during the cold days of winter and provide students with a well-
8 THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021
deserved reward for a strenuous semester. In Science, candy was used to represent different parts of the body during an anatomy lesson. In English, students had to use descriptive, sensory imagery to describe their favorite dessert without naming it. While students did enjoy the treats and effort that went into making the day special for them, the novelty of the day also created increased investment in learning.
JUNIOR HIGH "Transformation days draw students into the learning experience, permitting their imaginations to reignite. When students are engaged and eager to participate in the lesson, learning can go beyond standards and objectives. Curiosity is awakened, critical thinking is sparked, and the door to student ownership is opened."
Conversely, Exercise Your Mind Day came in the spring, when students needed to be reenergized and remotivated to finish the year with as much enthusiasm and drive as they had in August. Teachers dressed the part in athletic gear and lessons were centered around movement and competition. When students entered the building and heard the bass blasting and saw all the sweatbands, their interest was instantly piqued. Throughout the building, across content areas, when whistles were blown, students were racing to answer questions and complete problems. Incorporating a variety of learning formats ensures that all students not only have the opportunity to be successful in the classroom, but to become leaders in the classroom on days when the lesson is best suited to their aptitudes. Transformation can take minimal preparation with maximal impact. All it takes is a few decorations, a clever outfit, and a creative lesson. With a little extra effort, teachers can add an element of wonder to any lesson. The lights and sounds of transformation days beckon students to immerse themselves in their learning. More importantly, transformation days serve as a bridge to bring that same level of engagement on days when there aren’t cookies or obstacle courses around every corner. Thus, student transformation and investment grows beyond a single day and becomes an intrinsic and continuous part of every school day.
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HIGH SCHOOL
THE HEART OF HIGH SCHOOL MATH
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By Heather Bennett, Communications
Math at LRCA is not just about numbers and equations. It’s about the whole child and finding ways to tailor lessons to all learning styles and levels while building foundational skills for future classes and life. “We have implemented the whole student approach toward assessments and course recommendations, incorporating more balance for students to demonstrate mastery of content,” says Ciara Gulley, Math Department Co-Leader. “Every member of the math department takes seriously the responsibility of guiding each student to take courses that match their level of ability and long term goals while challenging them and maintaining balance in their overall high school experience,” assures Heather Tarpley, Math Department Co-Leader. Roughly every five years, math curricula are closely evaluated, as well as benchmarks and standards. The cloud of COVID has added an extra layer of complexity to this year’s efforts, but the faculty has met the challenge head on. They are working to ensure students are learning essential math concepts at every age and stage. Working with a Houston based consultant, the math team has engaged in individual and group professional development via Zoom. Tarpley says, 10 THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021
“We looked at everything that had been part of the curriculum in the past, evaluating whether or not it was essential, whether we needed to change the order in which concepts were taught, or whether something was missing that needed to be incorporated into the curriculum. We delved into presenting concepts in a way that would connect students to previously learned material, and also in a context that was interesting and relevant to the students’ lives.” Technology has played a key role in COVID-era instruction. A variety of methods are used to actively check students’ understanding including the flipped classroom where students prepare for learning by watching videos at home. “Everyone present, either physically or virtually, can engage with the instruction,” Tarpley says. Gulley explains, “We are teaching without walls and using a variety of platforms for asynchronous and synchronous instruction. We have students in the classroom and at home that we teach simultaneously. I love seeing their “Aha” moments. I’m so proud of my kiddos!” MEET THE MATH DEPARTMENT CO-LEADERS Ciara Gulley came to LRCA three years ago and has worked in education for eight years. Her passion for tutoring and mentoring sparked when she was in college at UCA. While seeking her Master of Arts in Teaching
Mrs. Tarpley engages her students in “mental math”, an homage to her father who successfully used similar brain teaser methods in his classroom.
from Harding University she worked in roles at Agape Academy and then Arkansas Christian Academy. She developed a love for creating experiences for students to develop academically, socially, creatively, and culturally in a Christian school environment. She also worked in restructuring the pace and math content for grades 6-11. Mrs. Gulley shares her favorite part about working at LRCA, “My students! We have the most amazing students and I have enjoyed investing in their lives. I love seeing them reach the math goals they set for themselves, realize they can do hard things, and push themselves to become better. I’m blessed to walk alongside them as they figure out what ‘success’ means for them. My wall quote says it best, “to be a math person: be a person and do math (any type).”
HIGH SCHOOL
Mrs. Tarpley expanded and led the French program for 19 years and headed up the World Language Department for half that time. She also taught math classes and became the co-leader of the Math Department in 2019. The Tarpleys have three children “who all grew up at LRCA”, Laura Grace, 28, Kyle, 32, and Kurt, 35. They also welcomed their first grandchild in late 2020. She shares, “It means a lot for me to have relationships with countless families that have been connected with LRCA for decades. This has created in me a strong sense of accountability and responsibility, but also of security and gratitude. I love it when a parent tells me in August that their child is excited about having me as their teacher, because they heard an older sibling express how much they loved being my student!”
Ciara and Keitron Gulley have been married for 11 years. They have three children, Justice, 4, Kaleb, 6, and Maddox, 10. Heather Tarpley has taught at LRCA for 22 years. The daughter of two teachers began tutoring students in math when she was a freshman in high school and continued through college. After graduating from Florida State University with a major in Applied Mathematics and a minor in French, she felt called to missions. While working in Lyon, France for Campus Crusade for Christ, she met her husband, David, at her best friend’s wedding in the States. They married in 1983 and lived in Florida and Alabama then moved to Little Rock in 1991 to work with FamilyLife. LRCA (then Walnut Valley Christian Academy) had a French teacher opening. She says, “I loved the thought of teaching students the language and culture I had fallen in love with, but in the context of God’s heart for people of all languages and cultures.” THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021 11
HIGH SCHOOL
SILVER LININGS AND COLLEGE DURING COVID By Heather Bennett, Communications; Matt Foster and Sarah Jones, Academic & College Counseling
The challenging nature of the past year needs no description. Despite the many battles, there has also been an abundance of blessings. With an ample amount of grit and determination, the Class of 2021 has garnered an impressive list of college acceptances already (as of press time). Visit www.LittleRockChristian.com for updated information.
Class of 2021 College Acceptances Arkansas State University Baylor University Colorado State University Elmhurst University Grand Canyon University Harding University Hendrix College John Brown University Louisiana State University Lyon College Middle Tennessee State University Mississippi State University
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Murray State University Oklahoma State University Ouachita Baptist University Radford University Rhodes College Rollins College Savannah College of Art and Design, Atlanta Southern Methodist University Texas A&M University The King’s College The University of Alabama The University of Arizona
The University of Chicago The University of Oklahoma The University of Tulsa Tulane University University of Arkansas University of Central Arkansas University of Dallas University of Memphis University of Mississippi University of Oregon West Virginia University Valencia College, West Campus
HIGH SCHOOL
Class of 2021 College Acceptance Map Shortly after the Class of 2020 exited the gates of Warriorville, the soon to be college freshmen embarked upon a journey into uncharted waters. Here, several recent graduates share how Little Rock Christian helped them navigate their new worlds during unprecedented times. “Hendrix College was completely virtual in the fall. In my Engaged Citizen (Zoom) class, we started talking about religion within the first few weeks. I thought, “Wow we’re jumping right in, aren’t we?” In LRCA BWV classes, we not only talked about what we believe, but learned how to discuss why we believe it. Because of that preparation, I was able to discuss my faith in a respectful manner with those who believe other things than me. The use of the Harkness method helped me defend my faith. LRCA Athletics also prepared me for playing football in college through instilling in me mental toughness and a winning attitude.”
“One of the most impactful ways Little Rock Christian has helped prepare me was the use of the Harkness method. When I was introduced to it, I was nervous. In fact, up until my senior year I didn’t speak much during these sessions. Although once I transitioned into college, I finally understood why this method was so important. It truly helped me engage in discussions during my classes. It allowed me to build off of what others had to say and even if the conversations got quiet, it allowed me to spark them up again. Now I’m truly thankful that LRCA introduced the Harkness Method to me.”
- Matthew Bennett
- Bri Graggs
“In my Entryway (Zoom) at Harvard, I was in what was basically a Harkness discussion on climate change with some of the smartest kids in the world. I was not always in agreement with some of the political claims, but I was able to respectfully disagree and hold my own through thoughtful discussion. I’m glad to have had the preparation that LRCA gave me and just wanted to use this as an encouragement to the teachers to show that what y’all are doing is separating our school from the pack.”
“Little Rock Christian did a great job helping me adjust to college! When COVID hit, I did not know how my education would look going forward. The teachers were always communicating and helping me along the way. The transition to online school allowed me to grow and take more responsibility in my school work. This helped drive my work ethic in college, because I learned to be comfortable with a virtual environment in high school.”
- Pearson Dennis
- Claire Perkins
“LRCA prepared me for college in ways that I couldn’t even imagine. The school within itself is run like a college and teaches you things like time management, discipline, and how to prioritize. Being that Little Rock Christian is a Christian-based school, I was taught how to love and care for others, while being loved and cared for. I would say I feel ahead in my academic career and also my athletic career.”
“I never expected my first semester of college to look the way it has. As I made my way through my classes I was so thankful for my LRCA education. Not only was I prepared for the challenging course work, but the community that Warriorville brings taught me how to see God’s hand in every situation. With hardly any events and mostly virtual learning, I was able to see the joy in the small things.”
- Kendel Givens
- Anna Young THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021 13
J-TERM
J-TERM 2021 EXPANDING HORIZONS CLOSE TO HOME By Heather Bennett, Communications
Challenging, fun, life-changing, deep, communal, inspiring, practical. These words and more can be used to describe the J-Term (January Term) experience at LRCA. J-Term gives high school students an opportunity to serve, to travel, to learn in areas of passion or interest, to go deeper into a subject, to practice skills, to grow spiritually, and to develop new relationships, new insights, and a renewed enthusiasm for learning. Some of the most memorable experiences of high school life are created during J-Term each year. Although the global situation dictated J-Term activities remain in The Natural State this year, faculty and staff worked hard to keep the home fires burning with an exciting assortment of classes. Internships were handled as independent studies.
J-Term Capstone Independent Study Passion Conference Thompson Driving School New Driver Education Class ACT English and Reading Preparation ACT Math Practice American Movie Classics: The Reel Deal Arkansas Foodbank Service Project Automotive and Internal Combustion Engine Design and Operation Bible Journaling Biomechanics in Physical Activity, Sport, and Exercise Business in Sports and Fitness Dance: Let’s Move! Digital Arts Master Class: Drawing and Painting on iPad 14 THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021
J-TERM Digital Video Production Editing, Publishing and Marketing Campaigns Encouraging Service Entomology: The Study of Insects and Why It Matters Evangelism and Discipleship Examining Mega Sporting Events Exploring End Time Prophecy Fitness and Nutrition Folklore and Folly: A Survey of Literature’s Greatest and Most Foolhardy Legends Forensics Game Theory Gothic Monster to Modern Man: Who is the Real Beast? History of Little Rock Hunter Safety Education Ice Hockey Ice Skating Interior Decorating 101 Introduction to Animation Introduction to Archery Introduction to Woodworking Jane Austen in Literature and Film Life Skills: Adulting 101 Middle East Geopolitical Studies Mixed Media Modern American History Through the Ears Outdoor Skills and Thrills (with Service) Personal Finance Podcasting: What Are You Listening To? Pre-Nursing Preparation Rube Goldberg Inventions: The Man and His Machines Science Olympiad STEM Challenges Screwtape and Scripture: Strategies for Overcoming Destructive Lies Sequential Art Sports Analytics Baseball Emphasis Sports Analytics Basketball Emphasis Star Wars and Science Fiction: A Galaxy Far Far Away Watercolor Workshop Intensive
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SPIRITUAL LIFE
LEANING INTO GOD... LEANING ON EACH OTHER
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By Sarah Jones, Academic & College Counselor
There are some moments in life that are so undeniably of God that it takes your breath away. The formation of The Warrior Way has been one of those moments. Throughout last spring and summer while the world was in quiet chaos, the Lord was at work through His people and His school. Kingdom work did not stop when the world did. The minute quarantine was upon us, our faculty, led by Dr. Arnold, did what it does best - we teamed. A dozen different task forces were put in place to ensure a safe and successful start to the 2020-2021 school year. I was on a team charged with student support post quarantine. We tossed around several different ideas, but nothing took root. During an afternoon drive one day in early June, the Lord sent some very clear guidance. We began to build a small group advisory system centered around a year-long study on what it means to be more than a conqueror. It would fittingly be called The Warrior Way. Now here’s where things get really fun. Soon after, senior Piper Greer sent in her Capstone proposal explaining her desire to develop a devotional written completely by students. Piper invited other interested students to contribute. Together they would write all of the weekly Warrior Way content for high school advisory. But God. Of the things learned during quarantine, one seemed to be highlighted consistently - people need people. It took a period of solitude to open our eyes to our great need for community. As believers and Warriors,
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community is at the core of our DNA. We understand that people need people because that’s how God works. MISSION STATEMENT The Warrior Way provides every student with a small discipleship group that meets throughout the year for the purpose of growing together in unity as Warriors for the Kingdom. Rooted in truth, we are charged to support students emotionally and spiritually with the aim to cultivate humility, kindness, and a deeper love for God and others. The Warrior Way’s four main focus units for 2020-21 : Know God better How we conquer in Christ What we conquer in Christ What it means to be a Warrior
Piper Greer
SPIRITUAL LIFE
The temporary tattoos were designed by senior Annie Carter to help with scripture memorization. They were given to all LRCA students for The Warrior Way humility week to learn Psalm 25:9.
KNOW GOD BETTER Scripture is sprinkled with unlikely heroes who all have the same heart goal - to know God better. Through knowing Him better we love and trust Him more and can love others more fully. Love God. Love people.
WHAT WE CONQUER IN CHRIST Throughout the third quarter we will explore what we can conquer in Christ - things like thoughts, fear, doubt, idols, pride, and discontentment to name a few.
A.W. Tozer writes, “To have found God and still pursue Him is the soul’s paradox of love...justified in happy experience by the children of the burning heart.” He goes on to say that Moses used the fact that he knew God as an argument for knowing Him better. May we always be children of the burning heart seeking His face each and every day.
So what does it mean for us to be more than conquerors? Tara-Leigh Cobble of The Bible Recap answers beautifully:
The first several weeks of The Warrior Way we studied the character of our God. We were reminded that in Christ we are fully equipped with His armor. He is our strength, our truth, our righteousness, and our peace. God’s word also tells us that He is our light in darkness, the anchor of our soul, and He is present in every moment. Always at our right hand. "I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken." Psalm 16:8 HOW WE CONQUER IN CHRIST The Lord calls us to a Kingdom perspective - to see things the way He sees them. From darkness to light. Despair to hope. Bondage to freedom. In a desperate battle cry, Jeremiah has the realization, “but the LORD is with me as a dread warrior; therefore my persecutors will stumble; they will not overcome me.” Jeremiah 20:11. The Lord is the one fighting our battles. We are only called to have faith and endure patiently with a prayerful posture of humility.
“His call is to persevere in the faith, to overcome the temptations of the world - whether they’re temptations to pursue earthly pleasures or to escape hardships and persecution. To be a conqueror is to love better. To be a conqueror is to keep loving God regardless of what life throws at you - blessings or challenges.” To love better. God and His people. WHAT IS A WARRIOR? In his final book, John Stott tells his readers, “We are not to be like reeds shaken by the wind, bowing down before gusts of public opinion, but as immovable as rocks in a mountain stream.” Unshakable. Immovable. Standing firm in the Cornerstone. At our church recently, we were challenged to wonder if maybe God is shaking out everything except for the parts that are unshakable. It sure feels that way. So, as Warriors, we will do what we are called to do. We will seek. We will abide. We will conquer. The victory is His! Warriors lead the way!
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ADVANCEMENT
WARRIOR BLITZ 2020 FAMILIES HELPING FAMILIES
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By Debbie Baer, Executive Assistant to the Head of School/Advancement
For the sixth year, Little Rock Christian Academy has been blessed by Warrior Blitz. What an amazing time in Warriorville. The campus was full of energy, enthusiasm and excitement. A goal for the week was set at $150,000. LRCA families and friends generously reached deeply and gave $168,901. Thanks be to God for His provision! The focus of this year’s week long event was Families Helping Families. 100% of the money raised was used to advance the education of Warrior students. These funds fuel LRCA to continue to equip young people with an excellent college-preparatory education that is characterized by truth from a Christ-centered worldview. In conjunction with the week, everyone zeroed in on Acts of Kindness and Service projects. The student body really stepped up and challenged each other to serve others. Students served others by writing letters to local pastors, sending colored pictures to our firefighters and police officers, and collecting food for the North Little Rock School District food pantry. Several students painted rocks to be placed around campus reminding us of our blessings. The highlight was seeing your children’s faces as they were doing Acts of Kindness and Service projects for others. Their joy was contagious! Because of corporate sponsors who generously partnered with us, the cost of ALL of the events during Blitz week were covered. Pediatrics Plus has been the Warrior Blitz presenting sponsor for all six years. Additionally, Thrivent Financial and Northshore Golf Range contributed to the week of fun. Blitz Chairperson Megan Garrison, along with PTF President Stacey Knoernschild and PTF President-elect Suzanne Waters, led the team with such deep passion and love for LRCA. 18 THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021
ADVANCEMENT
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ATHLETICS
POM TEAM 5A STATE CHAMPIONS
The LRCA Pom team won the 5A Dance State Championship for the third consecutive year! This is the fifth State Dance title for LRCA. Congratulations Pom!
DONATED LIGHTS AND TURF...MORE REASONS LRCA IS LIKE NOWHERE ELSE! Thanks to a generous donation of Matrix® Turf with Helix Technology, Cushdrain® and Ecotherm™ infill installed by Hellas Construction, studentathletes, cheerleaders, and coaches are safer from injury and cooler during the Natural State’s sweltering temperatures. Also, the new donated LED lighting system gives a whole new definition to Friday night lights! LRCA is the only school in Arkansas (including colleges and universities) that has this state-of-the-art turf and lighting technology.
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ATHLETICS
FOOTBALL 5A State Runner-Up Hooten's AR Farm Bureau 5A Defensive Player of the Year Finalist Gatorade AR Player of the Year Finalist Landers Award Finalist OrthoArkansas 5A Defensive Prime Time Performer of the Year Corey Platt All-Arkansas Preps Football Team Isaiah Hankins Corey Platt 5A Central All-State Titus Colquitt Colin Cooper
Jayvean Dyer-Jones Isaiah Hankins Corey Platt Conner Whipple 5A Central-All Conference George Garner Gabe King Hezekiah King Anthony Pugh Ben Ridings Nick Turner Tommy Wadsworth Slate Wilkerson
HOMECOMING Senior Wynter Rogers was crowned 2020 Football Homecoming Queen by her father, LRCA Head Girls Basketball Coach Ronald Rogers. The LRCA Warriors trounced the LR Hall Warriors 59-27. Other members of the Homecoming Court were seniors Anna Jeffrey and Ava Wisinger, juniors Heather Dunavan and Anna Wadsworth, sophomores Rachel Maack and Jewell Smith, freshmen Addie Beardsley and Ella Watson.
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ATHLETICS CROSS COUNTRY
5A Central Conference Champs (Girls) 5A Central Conference Runner-Up (Boys) 5A Central-All Conference Claire Barnes Madelyn Baxley Isabelle Brenniman Drew Bryant Ella Marie Davis Allie Parkinson Addison Southerland David Wood
WARRIOR CROSS COUNTRY
GOLF
5A Conference Champs (Boys and Girls) Conference Medalist Hudson Seago
WARRIOR
GOLF
5A Central-All Conference Ben Brogdon Hudson Seago Reid Smith Lillie St. Pierre
TENNIS
5A Central Conference Champions (Girls) 5A Central Conference Runner-Up (Boys) 5A All-State Piper Greer 5A Central-All Conference Kendall Christian Piper Greer Sarah Kathryn Hankins Caleb Roystuart Malcolm Wengel
WARRIOR
TENNIS
VOLLEYBALL
5A Central Conference Runner-Up
WARRIOR
VOLLEYBALL 22 THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021
5A All-State Abigail Jansen Hallie Martin Harper Stokes 5A Central-All Conference Caitlyn Chapple Elle Kerfoot Katelyn White
ATHLETICS
ATHLETIC SIGNINGS Reid Bowman - Baseball University of Central Arkansas Isaac Nowell - Baseball Ouachita Baptist University Wynter Rogers - Basketball West Virginia University
WARRIOR AWARDS Drew Bryant - Cross Country Ella Marie Davis - Cross Country Corey Platt - Football Georgia Brandt - Golf Benjamin Brogdon - Golf Mary Kathryn Nelson - Tennis Owen Casto - Tennis Claire Hart - Volleyball THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021 23
FINE ARTS
AP ART CLASSES OFFER STUDENTS COLLEGIATE LEVEL EXPERIENCE
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By Elizabeth Anne Sterling (Class of 2021)
The LRCA Fine Arts program offers incredible opportunities for students to grow their love of art and advance their artistic skills through a College Board approved Advanced Placement (AP) strategy with three different emphases: 2D Design, 3D Design, and Drawing. With minimal prerequisites, students with interests in researching and creating art at a collegiate level are encouraged to enroll in one of the year-long AP courses, according to Fine Arts AP instructor Melanie Buchanan. Unlike typical art classes, the AP classes focus less on technical artistic training and more on criticism, research, and analysis. Artists enrolled in any of the AP Studio Art classes have a solid understanding of their emphasis and are able to design their individualized programs and creative projects around essential questions of their choosing. An interesting hybrid between academics and art, the AP art program allows students to think freely and choose a personally meaningful topic around which to create their portfolio of artistry. After a topic is selected, students research and create artwork in response to what they have learned or experienced. Buchanan says her goal for students is to have a deep understanding of their chosen topic and the artistic process. “Students learn to synthesize all parts of the creative process together to achieve meaning,” Buchanan says. “Students not only choose their topic, but they also choose what media they want to work in and how they want to work in their chosen media.”
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At the end of the school year, students submit samples of their work to the AP Board for examination. Exams are evaluated in two parts. The parts are intended to show proficiency in the quality of the work produced as well as demonstrate a depth of investigation and evidence of ongoing practice, experimentation, and revision of works based on the student’s individually selected topic of focus. While there is no final exam for the AP courses, grades are determined based on the thorough evaluation of each student’s final portfolio. Students are in a collaborative environment, but work on their projects individually and at their own pace with checkpoints along the way. They have ready access to all classroom art supplies provided by the school. Since supply fees are associated with the AP courses, art scholars can also request special supplies and media for their specific project needs. The Advanced Placement offerings provide avenues for virtually every creative art endeavor. AP 2D Design targets students who have a passion for studio art, drawing, painting or digital design and who have experience in two-dimensional art making. AP 3D Design provides experienced ceramicists and sculptors with opportunities to creatively solve multidimensional design issues specifically in the areas of ceramics and sculpture. AP Drawing helps develop accomplished students’ technical and expressive abilities in digital design, drawing, and critique.
FINE ARTS
NEW HONOR SOCIETY RECOGNIZES STUDENT MUSICIANS
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By June Hendren, Director of Student Publications
Approximately 40 high school music scholars have applied for and are being considered for membership in the LRCA chapter of Tri-M Music Honor Society, the only honor society for student musicians in the nation. An induction ceremony in January officially marks the resurrection of the Tri-M chapter at Little Rock Christian, which was originally chartered in 2008. Chapter officers for 2021 are: President Angel Ke ('21), Vice President - Luke Spears ('21), Secretary - Veronica Ivester ('23), Treasurer - Benjamin Santiago ('21), Historian - Ashley Ligon ('21), and Social Media Coordinator - Lyndsey Garner ('22).
“Tri-M provides students leadership opportunities and encourages and motivates them to make a difference in their community through music-based service projects,” Gray said. “It also recognizes students that have gone above and beyond both academically and musically.” The LRCA chapter of Tri-M Honor Society is one of 2,100 chapters nationwide.
To be considered for membership, high school students must have been enrolled in choir, band or orchestra for at least one semester and maintain a minimum 3.5 grade point in all of their music classes. Students must also have an overall 3.0 GPA or better, be leaders in the community and demonstrate character in their daily lives in the areas of respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, fairness, caring and citizenship. Students will also prepare for a special performance as part of the application process. To stay in good standing, Tri-M Honor Society members will be expected to provide at least 10 hours of musicrelated service annually. Initiated by LRCA Fine Arts music educators Reagan Gray and Angela Goff, the Little Rock Christian Academy chapter of Tri-M received its chapter renewal certificate this fall. Advisors Gray and Goff resurrected the organization with the hope of developing student leaders who not only excel in music and academics but who also lead the way in character and community service. THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021 25
STUDENT ART
FAITH ATCHISON, ATCHISON, Grade 11 "Passion" Fundamentals of Drawing I Class/ "Collecting Yourself" Graphite Still Life Project
ZACHARY BOILS, Grade 6 “Rainforest Art”
LUCAS PITTMAN, Grade 8 “Still Life” 59th Annual Young Arkansas Artist Exhibition - Honorable Mention Chosen for exhibition at Arkansas Children’s Hospital, 2nd floor lobby during 2020
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RAEGAN MCELMURRY, Grade 12 “Mimic” Drawing 2020 AR Governor’s Young Artist Competition - Honorable Mention
TEAGUE COTTRELL, Grade 11 “Maple Leaf Platter”
STUDENT ART SCOTTIE HIGHTOWER, Grade 12 AP Studio Art & Design
AMELIA JOHNSON, Grade 3 “Elements of Art”
Winnie Adams, Grade 2 "Folk Art"
EMERY HUGHEN, Grade 4 THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021“Faces” 27
STAFF SPOTLIGHT
LRCA NURSING STAFF: THE WONDER WOMEN OF WARRIORVILLE
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By Heather Bennett, Communications
It goes without saying that 2020 transformed lives in countless ways from hoarding hand sanitizer to how we speak and everything in between. New expressions were coined while old ones experienced renewed vigor and heightened usage. One such term was healthcare heroes. We salute LRCA’s nursing staff...our very own healthcare heroes! Next time you see one of these Wonder Women of Warriorville give them an air hug, elbow bump, or simply say thank you for caring for your children in such selfless, beautiful ways. ELEMENTARY Wendy Lynn, RN, has served as an LRCA nurse for seven years and has worked in healthcare since 2010. After having children, she felt called into nursing where she worked at St. Vincent Infirmary on a Neuro/Spine unit. Wendy has been married to Shane Lynn for 22 years. They have three Warriors; Mason (‘20), Connor (11th), and Ethan (9th). Wendy shares her favorite part about working at LRCA, “As Dr. Arnold says, 'No Jesus, no school'. It's all about Him and for Him. How amazing it is to be a part of that! And I’m thankful for the amazing nurses that I get to serve with!” “The limited interaction with the students this year has been very challenging. We miss seeing students in our office as much as we have in the past. Your children are amazing and it is an honor and a privilege to serve at LRCA,” she says. Despite this year’s circumstances Wendy affirms, “It was wonderful to see the students reunited, laughing, and playing with friends in August. We are thankful to be here, in person, each day.” 28 THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021
When asked if she could be any superhero, Wendy states, “Elastigirl. She's an Incredible multitasking mom of 3!” Sydney Ezell, RN, has worked as a nurse at LRCA for five years and in health care since 2006 as a cardiac nurse at Baptist. She and her husband Tim have four Warriors; Hadley (‘20), Drew (7th), Will (5th), and Brooklyn (K). “I love that LRCA is not just a school, but also a community. It is so heartwarming to see the genuine love and support that flows freely on the campus. While we don't have students in class each day like a teacher, we definitely make connections with the kids. After spending several years caring for and loving them, we really miss them when they move up to the next school,” Sydney shares. Sydney states, “I have really been amazed at the adaptability of the kids. From day one, they have not complained or even acted like things were out of the ordinary (this year). And obviously I am so thankful that we are here!" Sydney’s superhero of choice is, “Wonder Woman. She has always been my favorite. Who wouldn't want a lasso of truth and an invisible jet?” MIDDLE SCHOOL/JUNIOR HIGH Heather Tomlinson, RN, has worked in healthcare for approximately 10 years ranging from the ICU to Postpartum. She started at LRCA six years ago. She and her husband Gil have three Warriors; Taylor ('12), Hannah ('20), and Hayden (11th). Heather says, “My favorite part about working at LRCA is the Christcentered environment that we get to experience every day. I have worked in many different places and LRCA is "like nowhere else". I am so grateful
for the Godly administration, teachers, and staff and the Godly example they set as they sacrificially and selflessly serve our students and families.” “The inspiration for my work goes back to why I felt called to be a nurse. I wanted to care for and serve people who were sick. I love that I have the privilege to not only care for a student's physical needs, but also their emotional and spiritual needs. I love being able to develop relationships with them and provide a safe place for them while they navigate the middle school and junior high years,” Heather shares. She says, “If I could be any superhero, I would definitely want to be one that could heal and fly. I look forward to heaven where there will be no disease or suffering and where I hope to be able to fly! As I was thinking about superheroes, I was reminded that my superheroes are the students that I care for here at LRCA who have type 1 diabetes. I am in awe of their strength, perseverance, and diligence.” Jennifer James, RN, started working at LRCA three years ago. She has been an OR nurse for 20 years. The last 15 have been at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Jennifer and her husband Donald have three Warriors; Benjamin (‘20), Gray (11th), and Luke (3rd). Jennifer says, “I have really enjoyed the personal relationships with the students and new challenges, because school nursing requires a different set of skills than those I use in the operating room. It is a very humbling experience to be a part of so many children’s lives. The one thing I have learned from so many years as a pediatric nurse is that children are so strong and resilient and so grateful for every kindness you show them.” “I have been amazed at how well the students have adapted to the many changes that have been implemented this year. They are able to find joy in the midst of uncertainty,” she shares. Jennifer states if she could be any superhero, “I would want to be one who could take away illness and hurt from children so that they have bright futures full of happiness and hope.” HIGH SCHOOL Camie Boshears, RN, has served for 13 years at LRCA. Her 29 year healthcare career has primarily focused on women’s health. She taught childbirth classes for 11 years, was a Labor Doula, and presently volunteers at Caring Hearts Pregnancy Center. She and her husband Boyd (LRCA Director of Safety and Security) have Skeet (6th) and three children who are Warrior Alumni, Brooks, Stone, and Hope. Camie shares, “My favorite part of working at LRCA is serving students and working alongside an amazing staff! I want my words and actions to reflect Christ in all I do. I hope that when someone enters the High School Nurses' Office that they see and feel Jesus. One of the best things about working at LRCA is being able to minister spiritually to a student while responding to his/her medical needs. Over the years of working here, those opportunities have inspired me and made me so thankful that I get to serve at such a wonderful school!”
STAFF SPOTLIGHT “I'm sure every woman would choose Wonder Woman! So, I would create "Marvel-ous Mermaid". I love water, any water! So when I wasn't assisting drowning victims and redirecting hurricanes, I would be swimming with the dolphins or sunning on a beach listening to the waves lap!” says Camie. Sarah Rainwater, RN, has been at LRCA three years, and 14 years in healthcare. She was a nurse at Arkansas Children’s Hospital and Retina Associates before staying home while her children were very young. She and her husband John (Class of ‘01) have three Warriors; Shepherd (4th), Rebecca (1st), and John Robert (PreK-3). “My favorite part about working at LRCA is being able to work where my children go to school. The most challenging thing I would say is the fact that school nursing covers such a broad range of health issues, not just the physical, but also the mental and emotional aspects,” Sarah says. She shares, “The relationships with the students and staff and being a part of the LRCA community inspire me. Working with the other nurses, the health and safety team and others to set up and implement a plan for the reopening of school and then seeing the doors stay open all semester have been a highlight despite the circumstances of 2020!” Sarah’s kiddos helped her answer the superhero question. “My children suggested Elastigirl...maybe then I could be in three places at once!”
Check out what students have to say about their healthcare heroes. “I like that they take care of me. They’re so nice.” - 1st Grade “They’re friendly and make it not scary.” - 2nd Grade “They’re kind and loving. They comfort me.” - 3rd Grade “They help me take my medicine. If someone is injured, they help them.” - 4th Grade “She’s really caring and helps everyone. She’s one of the best nurses I’ve ever met. She’s a really great person.” - Middle School “She definitely cares about everyone and thinks about them outside of school. I’m so thankful for how she goes out of her way to help everyone.” - Junior High “The nurses are incredibly nice, supportive, helpful and sweet. They always check on you. The nurses’ office is a safe haven for everyone.” - High School THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021 29
ALUMNI
DANNY “ERLO” ERLANDSON: THE MAN...THE MIND...THE MEMORIES
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By Bekah Johnson, Advancement & Alumni Relations
Punster. Quiz Bowl Guru. Teacher. Mentor. Friend. These are a few of the titles Danny “Erlo” Erlandson has held during his 25 years of teaching at LRCA. A man with an extraordinary memory who can punctiliously recite the graduating class, siblings, and some sort of anecdote about almost every student he’s ever taught. According to Babe Ruth, “legends never die,” but they do retire. In the summer of 2020, Erlo decided to hang up his teaching hat. While his departure leaves the high school with a permanent puncture, Erlo’s legacy at LRCA lives on. Across these pages, we hear from Erlo, as well as share just a few of the dozens of letters and notes of congratulations collected from former students who have been profoundly impacted by him over the years. BJ: Why did you decide to become a teacher, and what led you to Walnut Valley Christan Academy? DE: The push factor was that I had no other job prospects. Since I was too OCD to finish my doctoral dissertation, I never completed my Ph.D. Without a Ph.D., teaching college (my original ambition) was not a real option. The pull factor was that WVCA had a robust History program, which was my undergrad major. There was also a new curriculum called “Worldview” in which I could use much of the Bible, theology, church history, and philosophy I’d studied in grad school.
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BJ: What was the most rewarding part of the job? DE: Interacting with students and colleagues. I genuinely feel as if I learned more about the Lord, His word, theology, history, etc., from them than they learned from me. BJ: What important lessons did you learn along the way? DE: That students often care more about whether you care for them than if you’re an expert in your subject or have good teaching methods. I think the main reason I survived my first few years of teaching, even though I was then clueless about pedagogy (teaching method), was because the students somehow knew that all my teasing at their expense was borne of my love for them. BJ: The student name pun you are most proud of? DE: Let me share one from a “disciple” in the class of ‘12 (no, not punsters Ethan Burson, Steven Murphy, or Connor van Hemert, but Anastasia Peregrin). In AP European History fall of 2011, we were studying the significance of surnames—e.g., “Erlandson” is a patronymic, meaning “son of Erland,” while “van Hemert” is a toponym, meaning “from Hemert.” But some surnames tell what your ancestors did: Cooper = barrel maker; Chandler = candle maker; Miller = turned grain into bread; etc. Anastasia said after a long pause, “I wonder what Josh’s ancestors did?” It brought down the house! She was referring to Josh Hurlbut. Josh laughed hardest of all—he got his “revenge” by winning a 5A wrestling crown that year and becoming valedictorian.
ALUMNI
NOTES TO ERLO FROM ALUMNI “I always appreciated your logical approach to theology and the fact you never presented your understanding of the topic as correct. Instead you would lay all the arguments, theories, and evidence before us and let us decide for ourselves. It made a huge impression on me then, and set me up for the future. Critical thinking and learning to make my own decisions about faith and theology instead of just believing what I am told is a skill you taught me and I’ll always treasure.” - Heather Casey (‘10) “You were my favorite and most consequential teacher I had in high school. You went out of your way to be so engaging, instructive, entertaining, and caring. I’ll never forget that. In your European history and worldview courses, I remember first catching an interest in subjects which would aid the shape of my path. As a philosopher and religion scholar now, I still research and teach material for which I first picked up an interest from you. I hope at the end of my career that I too have so many students who remember me fondly.” - Tad DeLay (‘04) “Thanks for not shying away from hard questions.” - Heidi Denny (‘20) “You show kindness to everyone you encounter with no favoritism or exclusion. You treat everyone with such respect and gentleness, and you listen so well. And, even though your intellect and knowledge of Scripture impresses everyone around you, it is your humility that is so winsome. You value others’ opinions and are humble in word and deed.” - Lindsey Scholl Greenwald (‘05)
“The most important thing I learned in your class is not to be afraid of questioning. You made it fun to play devil’s advocate and efficiently demonstrated that picking apart our beliefs and questioning the smallest details of theology will not destroy our faith. It strengthens it. I have also been influenced by your teaching style. I am a high school science teacher now and I have found myself following your example! As students, we felt you truly loved knowing us and loved being a part of our lives not just for those nine months we were in your class, but onward into life!” - Caroline Groustra (‘12) “Erlo was one of the first teachers who really demonstrated to me the value of thinking critically, even about things you hold dear - like matters of faith. Between his worldview class(es), and quiz bowl practices, he deeply cared about teaching presumably insufferable know-it-alls like myself the importance of understanding the big picture. He demonstrated the difference between simply learning facts, and actually understanding concepts.” - Paul Hinman (‘01) “Erlo, how I wish I could retake your worldview class. My 16-year-old self had no idea just how much biblical and historical wisdom there was to gain from sitting in your class!” - Laura Wasson (‘15)
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ALUMNI NEWS
WALKS DOWN THE AISLE
Grace Fegtly Cate (Class of 2016) and Graham Cate (Class of 2016) married on May 30, 2020 at First Presbyterian Church in Little Rock, Arkansas. The Cates also reside in Little Rock.
Blake William DeLuca (Class of 2015) and Kelly Ann Walker DeLuca married on June 6, 2020 in a family ceremony then celebrated their marriage on September 12, 2020 at the Chenal Country Club. The DeLucas live in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Karsen Baer Fletcher (Class of 2014) and Tyler Blake Fletcher married on June 19, 2020 at The Barn at the Springs in Springdale, Arkansas. Karsen is the daughter of Debbie Baer, Executive Assistant to Head of School/Advancement at Little Rock Christian. The Fletchers reside in Rogers, Arkansas.
Hannah Kelley Hampton (Class of 2016) and Joe Hampton (Class of 2016) married on May 16, 2020 at the home of Scott and Lynn Beardsley. The Hamptons make their home in Little Rock, Arkansas. Hannah is the daughter of Tracy Kelley, LRCA's High School Administrative Assistant to Dr. Justin Smith and Kevin Kelley, the voice of WarriorVision.
Stacey Johnston Howard (Class of 2014) married Grey Howard on January 4, 2020 at The Grandeur House in Little Rock, Arkansas. Stacey is the daughter of Araceli Johnston, LRCA High School Spanish faculty. The Howards make their home in Conway, Arkansas.
Torey Harrison Martin (Class of 2015) married Jackson Martin on June 27, 2020 at Torey’s parents’ home by Pinnacle Mountain. The Martins make their home in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Hannah Hearnsberger Plugge (Class of 2010) and Thomas Plugge married on August 29, 2020 in Deer Valley, Utah. The Plugges reside in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Jennifer Bray Quilao (Class of 2013) and R.J. Quilao (Class of 2012) married on July 20, 2019 at the Grandeur House in Little Rock, Arkansas. The Quilaos make their home in Searcy, Arkansas.
Laura Taylor Burrow Richards (Class of 2008) married Captain Birdo Lee Richards, III, on October 16, 2020 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Richards live in Dallas, Texas.
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ALUMNI NEWS 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 Bekah.Johnson@LittleRockChristian.com
Hayes Gregory Riser (Class of 2012) married Margaret Helen Rutherford on August 7, 2020 at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Nashville, Tennessee. Nashville is also where the Risers reside.
Alisha Grace Neblett Thompson (Class of 2008) married Toney Everett Thompson, Jr. on September 26, 2020 at Fellowship Bible Church in Little Rock, Arkansas. The Thompsons live in Morrisville, North Carolina. Alisha’s mother is Julia Neblett, member of the LRCA staff as well as the Board of Trust.
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.
BUNDLES OF JOY
Josh Alberius (Class of 2012) and his wife Claire welcomed their baby girl Scotty Jane (7 pounds, 2 ounces) on October 30, 2020. The family makes their home in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Abigail Blocker Barber (Class of 2015) and Lane Barber (Class of 2014) were blessed with their son Case McCabe Barber (8 pounds, 13 ounces) on December 23, 2019. The Barbers live in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
Ashley Anderton Cunningham (Class of 2001) and her husband Bixler Cunningham gave birth to their baby girl, Isabelle Grace Cunningham (7 pounds, 12 ounces) on November 19, 2020. The Cunningham family resides in Daphne, Alabama.
Megan Baker Hollingshead (Class of 2010) and Blake Hollingshead welcomed their baby Brooks Orie Hollingshead (6 pounds, 2 ounces) on June 5, 2020. The Hollingshead family lives in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
Rebekah Raine Kuhn (Class of 2011) and Logan Kuhn (Class of 2011) welcomed their first child, Kinzie Jane Kuhn (7 pounds, 5 ounces) on September 3, 2020. The Kuhns reside in Little Rock, Arkansas.
James Michael Porter (Class of 2007) and his wife Nora Friedrichs have a 19 month old son, Lukas. Michael and Nora are both operatic singers throughout Germany and Austria and make their home in Taunus, Germany. THE WARRIOR • WINTER 2021 33
SNAPSHOTS
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SNAPSHOTS
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Little Rock Christian Academy
Nonprofit U.S. Postage PAID Permit #1568 Little Rock, AR
19010 Cantrell Road • Little Rock, AR 72223
Warrior Alumni Memorial Scholarship
February 15-21, 2021
The Warrior Alumni Scholarship Fund was established to honor the memory of beloved Warrior classmates who have passed away. It is awarded yearly to a family who has experienced a recent tragic loss and qualifies for tuition assistance through FACTS, with preference given to a qualified Legacy family (Warrior parent who is an alumnus of LRCA/WVCA). The Scholarship is fully funded by donations, administered, and promoted by the LRCA Office of Advancement in partnership with the Alumni Association.
2020 Mark Webb Alumni Award
Congratulations to Victoria Odom (Neblett, '15), the 2020 LRCA Mark Webb Alumni Award recipient! Named after alumnus Mark Webb ('06), this award is given each year to an LRCA graduate who exhibits an authentic faith in Christ through serving others, uses his/her education and talents to engage others, and perseveres with a dedication that inspires others. Victoria's leadership, willingness to serve her community, and her heart for the Lord make her more than deserving of this year's award!
