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{ SPRING 2013 } LCS INSPIRES A LIFETIME OF LEADERSHIP ‘Class Clown’ Evere Bracken Establishes Ministry for Greater Atlanta Students INSIDE feature >

LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

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Page 1: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ spring 2013 }

LCS InSpIreS a LIfetIme of Le aderShIp

‘Class Clown’ Everett Bracken Establishes Ministry for Greater Atlanta StudentsI n S I d e feature >

Page 2: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

On the hOrizOn

Leadership development is a key component of the LCS mission. What guides the LCS

leadership development effort? What kind of leaders are we trying to develop?

The leadership of King David is described in Psalm 78:72. “And David shepherded them with

integrity of heart; with skillful hands he led them.” The leader must have integrity and skill. The

leader is often seen in public but must realize that integrity of heart is formed in quiet, private

moments of decision out of the public eye. A heart for God, His Word and His Truth is cultivated

in time spent in study and prayer. Failure here is often exposed in public later. David’s moral

failure is well documented, but it should also be noted that he dealt with his private sin with

both private and public repentance. Would that more of our leaders saw repentance as

an essential leadership posture!

David’s leadership was also skillful. Enthusiasm and vision fall flat if the leader is incapable

of instilling passion and direction to those he/she would lead. Shepherding skill combines

courage and compassion in the leading of others. The shepherd-leader guides those who

follow with an awareness of dependency on the Great Shepherd. We hope you enjoy this

edition of Engage as we share stories of those learning to lead with integrity and skill.

DR. MIKE SLIGH, Headmaster

Page 3: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

MagazineEditor Sandy Johnson, Communications Specialist

Creative Design Clark/Nikdel/Powell

Cover Photography Kay Himmel, Beloved Images

ADmINIStrAtorS:

Dr. mike Sligh | Headmaster

Steve Wilson | Director of Advancement

Luci o’Byrne | Elementary Principal

Wayne Shimko | Secondary Principal

Darren Copeland | Assistant High School Principal

Keith overholt | Assistant middle School Principal

Julie rice | Director of Enrollment

John Douglass | Business manager

BoArD of DIrECtorS:

Kevin Knowlton – Chairman

Dan Green – Vice-Chairman

Beth Patteson – Secretary

Payton Albritton

Kristen Bolter

Dan DeLange

David miller

Jay mueller

Bill mutz

Dean Nederveld

Cory Petcoff

Steve Sligh

John tucker

Jim Wilbanks

magazine is published quarterly by

Lakeland Christian School and is distributed free

of charge to parents, grandparents, alumni and

friends of the school.

Send correspondence to:

Lakeland Christian School

Attn: Sandy Johnson

1111 forest Park Street

Lakeland, fL 33803

You may send emails to [email protected].

this magazine is printed by Area Litho, Lakeland, fL.

feature: Ev Bracken { 6 }

Side feature: Ian thomas { 12 }

Campusclamor@LCS { 14 }

Expressions@LCS { 16 }

faculty feature: Keith overholt { 18 }

Staff Scoop & fun Stuff { 20 & 21 }

Sports feature: Ashley Wilson { 22 }

Sportszone@LCS { 24 }

Alumni@LCS { 26 }

Cheerfulgivers@LCS { 30 }

LaKeLanD ChriStian SChOOL 1111 forest Park Street, Lakeland, florida 33803 | Phone 863-688-2771

fax 863-682-5637 | www.lcsonline.org | facebook: www.facebook.com/LCSVikings | twitter: www.twitter.com/LkldChristian

i n t h i S i S S u e :

WHY Engage ?

engage v. to commit; to involve intensely; to begin action

the new title for the LCS magazine describes — in one word —

a great deal about our passion for Christian schooling and the

effectual results. this active verb reflects our commitment to

fostering lives of vibrant faith, active learning and intentional

influence. teachers engage students, students engage in their

studies and co-curricular activities, and children and young people

are prepared to engage their culture for the Kingdom. Engage will

share encouraging stories of commitments to Christ, engagement

in learning and active applications of faith for a lifetime.

Page 4: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

T h e m i s s i o n o f L a k e L a n d C h r i s T i a n s C h o o L

{ 4 }

Page 5: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ }is to educate students in the light of God’s word to equip them for a

lifetime of learning, leadership, service and worship.

{ 5 }

Page 6: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

from ‘CLaSS CLown’ to exeCutIve dIreCtor:Everett Bracken’s Foundation Shares the Love of Christ with High Schoolers

{ 6 }

F E A T U R E

Page 7: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

Everett Bracken never planned to be a leader. A self-professed “class clown,”

Everett considered it his mission in high school to make people laugh. But his time

at Lakeland Christian instilled in him the importance of Christian education, and his

mission now is to provide a Christian education to students in the largest public

school system in the state of Georgia.

{ 7 }

Page 8: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

mY CurIoSItY for tHE BIBLE WAS IGNItED At LCS, AS WAS mY

DESIrE to BE of HELP to otHEr PEoPLE. GoD uSED LCS to

BEGIN A WorK IN mE tHAt LED to A SurrENDErED HEArt AND

AN AmAzING JourNEY to WHErE I Am toDAY.

{ 8 }

HIGH SCHooL DAYS

Everett attended LCS for his junior and senior years

of high school, graduating in 1988. He played on the

varsity basketball and baseball teams and was a

founding member of the LCS chapter of the fellowship

of Christian Athletes. Everett recognizes three

teachers as having the greatest influence on him:

mrs. Judy oncu, Dr. mike Sligh and mr. Dean Johnson.

“Academically, mrs. oncu taught me how to study,

and she taught me why language arts is important,”

Everett said. “She also taught me that my mastery

of the English language was primordial at best. But

(and she would tell me not to start this sentence

with “but”), my love for words was born in her class.

Spiritually, mike Sligh and Dean Johnson both taught

me much about what being a follower of Jesus meant

in the way one thinks and lives. I could also relate to

them because of our common love for sports.”

Everett’s passion for sports also drove his career

aspirations in high school: “todd radford and I

were going to get our PE degrees, come back to coach

basketball at rival high schools, get a big house on a

lake and live the dream bachelor life. Sorry todd … I

let you down by changing majors and getting married.

In all honesty, it wouldn’t have been much of a rivalry,

because I would have dominated him.”

However, his brief time at LCS encouraged Everett to

look at the world differently and, ultimately, it set him

on a path to his future career.

“It was at LCS that I began to see that the world was

bigger than I had previously understood. Being able to

discuss AIDS, developing a knowledge of computers

and traveling to the Virgin Islands were all things that

helped me to develop a more global perspective.”

BEGINNING HIS CArEEr

After graduating from Bryan College in Dayton,

tennessee with a double major in Bible and Christian

Education, Everett was a youth pastor for 13 years

(three years in Chattanooga, tennessee and 10 years

in Stone mountain, Georgia).

In the late 1990s, Everett was introduced to the

concept of “released time religious education” where

Bible classes could be taught each day to public

high school students, just like any elective course.

the classes were held off campus and were privately

funded. they were being offered to public high school

students in northern Georgia but not in the metro

Atlanta area. Along with some friends, Everett began

to pray about how to bring Bible classes to the

students in Gwinnett County – the largest school

system in the state of Georgia, with 18 high schools.

CorE fouNDAtIoNS

After lengthy discussions with the school board,

Everett was given permission to establish released

time religious education programs in Gwinnett

County. With this permission, Core foundations

was established, and Everett began teaching

the first class in the fall of 2002.

E N G A G E f E At u r E continued

Page 9: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ 9 }

“With the door opened, other communities in

Gwinnett County wanted to have the same classes

for their high school students, so we started to help

get new programs started. today, there are nine

Christian Learning Centers (CLC) providing these

classes, and two more will be starting in the fall,”

Everett said. “In essence, we take a great Bible

class like LCS provides and offer it to public high

school students as one of their electives. We offer

four classes on a rotating basis: New testament

Survey, Comparative religion, Stories from the

old testament and following Jesus.”

As the Executive Director of Core foundations, Everett’s

responsibilities include oversight of the program. He

hires, trains and oversees the teachers and staff. He

also connects with high school principals to build and

maintain positive relationships. Each local CLC has a

leadership team that fundraises, recruits, develops a

budget and provides teacher support. Everett works

directly with these leadership teams to make sure

everything is running well.

He also teaches two classes a day at his local

high school.

“I love high school students and have devoted my

life to them. they are the reason I do what I do, and

teaching is my lifeline for staying connected with the

people we are trying to reach.”

running Core foundations is not without its

challenges, but the benefits outweigh the challenges.

Because the school system cannot publicize the

classes, Core foundations relies on word-of-mouth

advertising. And like other non-profit ministries,

fundraising is always a challenge. Core foundations

relies on the generosity of churches, businesses

and individuals.

the students who choose to take the elective Bible

classes come from a variety of backgrounds and

possess a vast range of knowledge about God.

“I love high school students and have devoted my

life to them. They are the reason I do what I do,

and teaching is my lifeline for staying connected

with the people we are trying to reach.”

Page 10: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

E N G A G E f E At u r E continued

{ 1 0 }

“many of our students have no background with

God, Jesus or the church. for most of them, our

class is the first time they have had a chance to

hear about the Kingdom of God. It is an amazing

opportunity to be the first to introduce them to God.

for other students, our class provides a chance for

them to grow deeper in an already vibrant faith. We

help train students to engage the world from

a Christian worldview.”

Since its beginnings in 2002, Everett and his

team have experienced innumerable rewards

from the ministry.

“one of the best things about being involved in

this ministry is hearing from former students who

express gratitude for what we did for them. We’ve

seen former students go on to lead Bible studies

for their frat brothers, some who went on to further

study the Bible in college and seminary. others who

see their jobs as opportunities to serve, and others

who are now married with children and are still

following Jesus.”

tHE futurE of CorE fouNDAtIoNS

today, there are nine Christian Learning Centers in

Gwinnett County. But one of the main goals of Core

foundations is to provide every high school student

in metro Atlanta with the opportunity to learn

about Jesus Christ.

“to that end, we have to have a CLC for the

remaining seven schools in Gwinnett County by

2015,” Everett said. “We are also planning to offer

our first classes for fulton County students in the

fall of 2014, which will open the door for all of the

17 high schools in that county.”

“many of our students have no background with

God, Jesus or the church. for most of them, our class

is the first time they have had a chance to hear

about the Kingdom of God.”

His brief time at LCS encouraged Everett to look

at the world differently and, ultimately, it set

him on a path to his future career.

Page 11: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

» Quick facts:Full Name: Everett Bracken

Family: Wife Susan, Daughter Lauren (19),

Son Daniel (14)

Favorite teacher at lcS: mrs. oncu

Favorite claSS: Bible

BeSt lcS memory: Cranking the game-winning

homer against rival Evangel Christian for the 2-1

victory and to preserve my pitching win

cloSeSt FrieNdS From lcS: todd radford,

Joel Jeffries, Laura Coachman, Holly Wright,

marsha musick, Alison Batts, Sarah Kearney

claSS you wiSh you had takeN at lcS:

Entrepreneurship during the Dark Ages

dream JoB: I’m doing it! Seriously.

iF you wereN’t executive director oF core

FouNdatioNS, what would you do? Play guard

and throw alley oops to LeBron for the miami Heat

(on Xbox 360) or be a comedy writer in Hollywood.

tHE LCS fouNDAtIoN

Everett’s time at Lakeland Christian School instilled

in him a love for studying the Scriptures and set

him on the path to where he is today: the leader

of a ministry with the goal of sharing Christ

with students.

“I never planned to be a ‘leader,’” Everett said. “I

have only ever wanted to hang out with and disciple

teenagers as best I know how. I was the “class

clown,” not “most likely to succeed.” But I do love

to dream of new and better ways to do things, so

somehow God has used that about me to initiate this

movement in our county. my curiosity for the Bible

was ignited at LCS, as was my desire to be of help

to other people. God used LCS to begin a work in

me that led to a surrendered heart and an amazing

journey to where I am today.”

“I am so grateful for the administrators, staff,

teachers and supporters of LCS who worked

together to have an impact on my life. I would not

be where I am today had it not been for Lakeland

Christian School.”

for more information about Everett and the Core

foundations, please visit www.corefoundations.org.

{ 1 1 }

Page 12: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

When Ian thomas showed up on the florida State

university campus is the fall of 2008, he planned on

leaving tallahassee four years later with a degree in

meteorology. Instead, just five years after he left

Lakeland Christian School, Ian will return to his alma

mater as a member of the high school Bible faculty

for the 2013-2014 school year.

So how does one jump from meteorology to religion

in the course of a few years? for Ian, it was his

educational foundation at LCS, his involvement in

Christian Campus fellowship (CCf) and four oaks

Community Church, and the mentorship of older, godly

men in his life who showed him the calling that God

had on his life for full-time ministry.

“So much of who I am today was shaped and

formed by my time and experience as a student at

LCS,” Ian said. “first and foremost, I was given a

strong foundation in the gospel and the Word of

God. I enjoyed reading through C.S. Lewis and the

challenging discussions and topics from Dr. Sligh and

mr. Stabler that I know prepared me for college and the

rest of my life so well. Senior Bible was one of the first

classes that I realized I had a passion for reading and

studying theology and apologetics – a big reason

why I am where I am today in ministry and soon

returning to teach Bible.”

As he started his freshmen year at fSu, Ian

immediately got connected with CCf and joined

four oaks Community Church – two decisions that

he believes were instrumental in shaping his time

at florida State.

“for an idea of what our campus life is like, there are

a little over 40,000 or so students at fSu, and only

10 percent of these students claim to be Christians,”

Ian said. “that leaves around 36,000 students who are

lost and are in slavery to the world and sin. It was

different but refreshing to be around people who

weren’t Christians and didn’t claim to be Christians. It

immediately gave me a mission field to engage people

with the love of Christ and also gave me a healthy

reminder that there are really lost people in the world

who need to be loved—something that can be difficult

to really grasp until God places you in that setting.”

side FeATURe

{ 1 2 }

from meteoroLogy to reLIgIon: How one Graduate’s Calling will Bring Him Back to LCS

Page 13: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

for his sophomore year, Ian had the opportunity

to live in the CCf house and serve as part of the

resident ministry team. He began leading small

group Bible studies and helping the CCf staff with

other responsibilities. Soon after, he changed his

major to religion and set out to prepare for

full-time ministry.

“I knew it would be a challenging major on a

major secular campus, as many of my teachers and

students did not believe the Bible to be true and

were sometimes even hostile to Christianity,” Ian

said. “Despite the difficulties in the program, my

religion classes challenged me to be able to defend

my faith, especially my understanding of God’s Word

with people who are highly skeptical.”

“I purposefully took a lot of course work in

Biblical studies so that I could engage with students

and professors who had an interest in this area, as

well as challenge myself to be able to back up

what I believe and what I was taught during my

time at LCS.”

After graduating from fSu in December 2011 with a

degree in religion, Ian stayed at florida State as a

full-time staff member with CCf. Ian was responsible

for leading small groups, developing and writing

small group curriculum, preaching on a regular basis,

ministering to and sharing the gospel with students,

running the operations of the weekly on campus

meeting, serving as head resident on the CCf

property, training and equipping the CCf student

leaders, and handling logistics for the fall and

spring retreats.

Ian has served on the staff of CCf for the past year

and a half, but will transition back to LCS for the new

school year.

“I am so excited for the opportunity to give back to

the school that meant so much to my life and also to

be part of a culture that is committed to educating

students in the light of God’s Word. I am also excited

that many of the administrators and teachers who

were around during my time at LCS are still at the

school. I am humbled and excited to be working

alongside of them now in this position.”

As Ian begins teaching and impacting the lives of

current LCS students before they head off to college,

his best advice it to get plugged in early at a church

and campus ministry and to work hard and be a

good student.

“I would also give a big push to current LCS students

not to keep their faith bottled up when they get to

college. for most of them, there will never be a

greater and easier mission field than a college

campus, and they have been equipped and know

so much from their time at LCS.”

moving back to Lakeland and starting a new

teaching job are just two of the major changes that

Ian is looking forward to in the upcoming months.

Another exciting change for Ian is his upcoming

wedding to fiancé molly, whom he met at florida

State. they are planning a December wedding.

{ 1 3 }

“I am so excited for the opportunity to give back to

the school that meant so much to my life and also to

be part of a culture that is committed to educating

students in the light of God’s Word.”

Page 14: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ campusclamor@lcs }

{ 1 4 }

on Saturday, march 16, LCS rISE Institute

student Evan mcLoughlin won the chemistry/

biochemistry division at the orlando Science Center

Challenge, a science fair competition featuring the

winners in the physical and environmental science

categories in the six surrounding counties. Evan

earned a medal and a $200 cash prize. His project

investigated the effect of methylphenidate (ritalin)

on cricket action potentials. only one award was

given per category. Jacquelyn moseley and taylor

o’Byrne also represented Polk County and LCS

with excellence with their investigation of oE

protozoan on monarch butterflies. Victoria

Benson, another member of their research

team, was ill and could not participate.

LCS senior Hannah

Duncan has been awarded

the prestigious Presidential

Scholarship from Samford

university in Alabama. She

will receive $18,500 each

year for four years. the

Presidential Scholarship is awarded to students who

have distinguished records of achievement and who

intentionally use their exceptional talents, abilities

and personal commitments to better society. Hannah

is the daughter of Glen and Betty Duncan.

Junior Derek Andersen recently

won first place in the Lakeland

South rotary Speech Contest.

He will go on to compete at

the Group level. the topic of

this year’s contest was “Peace

through Service.” Derek is the

son of David and Katy Andersen.

the LCS faculty and the senior

class nominated senior Scott

Benton as this year’s Daughters

of the American revolution Good

Citizenship Award winner. this

award recognizes students for

their dependability, service,

leadership and patriotism.

Scott is the son of randall

and Karla Benton.

Congratulations to LCS seniors Lymaries Velez,

Scott Benton and Christina Sierra on being

recipients of the Elk’s Club most Valuable Student

Scholarships. Christina moved on to the State

level and won an additional $4,000. Scott is the

son of randall and Karla Benton. Christina is the

daughter of Luis and Elizabeth Sierra, and Lymaries

is the daughter of Kenny and Ana Velez.

Page 15: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ campusclamor@lcs }

{ 1 5 }

three LCS chess players participated in the Polk

County Scholastic Chess Association Championship

tournament held march 16. Players were divided into

16-player sections based on their performance during

the regular season. Competing in their A Sections (the

second-highest) Braden tan finished 2-2 in the Primary

Division and Christian Herman scored 1.5 points in the

Elementary Division. they received tournament knight

trophies. tom Bowers competed in the E Section in the

middle Division and won a second place trophy with a

score of 3-1. Coach mark Williams was pleased with the

team’s performance, winning 54 percent of their games.

the regular season is four monthly tournaments starting

in october and a final Championship tournament in

march. Coach Williams is hoping to have several more

players from the two weekly chess clubs ready to

compete next season.

Several LCS middle school students in the rISE Institute

competed in the State Science fair during spring break.

Congratulations to the following students on winning

awards and recognitions: Seventh graders Jacquelyn

moseley, Victoria Benson and taylor o’Byrne teamed

up and placed second in the microbiology category for

their project entitled “the fight for flight: Investigating

ophryocystis elektroscirrha.” they also received the

united States Department of Agriculture (uSDA)

Agricultural research Service Award of Excellence and

an invitation to participate in the prestigious Broadcom

mAStErS research competition. this was their first

State Science fair competition.

Seventh grader Evan

mcLoughlin won first place in

the Biochemistry division for his

project investigating the effect

of methylphenidate on cricket

neuron action potentials.

In addition, he received the Dr.

Benjamin Cole Award of $100

and was nominated for the

Broadcom mAStErS science

research competition.

Competing in her third State

Science fair, eighth grader

Julia Canady placed first in the

Botony division and received

the Ying Scholar $500 Grand

Award for Best in Show –

Junior Biological Sciences.

Additionally, Julia received a

uSDA Award of Excellence,

a $25 award from Brevard

Intercostal and the $50 James f. miley Award. She

was also invited to participate in the Broadcom

mAStErS research science competition.

Lee Wall (mathematics) and

Kacey mewborn (zoology) also

competed at the fair.

Page 16: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ expressions@lcs }

{ 1 6 }

At the Platform Art Show on

Saturday, february 23, second

grader Kylee Cress won first place

overall for her watercolor painting

of an elephant. this piece can be

viewed at Artsonia.com.

on Saturday, march 2, three students won awards at

Bartow’s “Bloomin’ Art Show.” Kylee Cress (second

grade) won first place for her watercolor elephant.

fifth grader matthew Albritton won second place for

his cubist collage, and second grader Alyssa Stahl

won third place for her tempera and chalk painting.

LCS submitted 20 pieces of art for display at the event.

the annual ACSI Art festival was held the week of

march 4. LCS elementary students scored high with

17 Superior and three Excellent ribbons. third

grader Emma Galbraith earned a perfect score for

her artwork. Superior ratings went to the

following students:

fifth graders: matthew Albritton,

Alexandra Clements, trey Hannum

fourth graders: rachel Branham

third graders: Sara Kate foster, mary Nannette

Boyce, Emma Galbraith, Gaines Alexander

Second graders: Carley Hampton, Gretchen

Caswell, Lily manibusan, Emmy Lou Varnum

first Graders: Nicholas Simpson, Amelia Boyce

Kindergarteners: Cale Strickland, Amanda otero

Excellent ribbons were given to fourth graders

Caleb Jones, J.t. Stacy and Sun Woo Lee.

Congratulations to the LCS Junior High Choir on

earning straight Superior ratings from all four judges

at the District 12 music Performance Assessment

sponsored by the florida Vocal Association on

thursday, April 4. the choir consists of 54 seventh

and eighth graders, who performed two pieces

on stage and also sight-read both rhythmic and

three-part harmony exercises. the event was

held at tenoroc High School.

LCS elementary student artists have participated in a number of shows recently. Congratulations to the following students on their outstanding artistic accomplishments:

Page 17: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ expressions@lcs }

Congratulations to the following band students who

performed at the State Band Solo & Ensemble music

Performance Assessment on tuesday, April 2:

Superior: maria Baker – flute Solo;

Jonathan murray – trumpet Solo; maria Baker

and Kaylee mills – flute Duet

Excellent: Christina Sierra – Alto Sax Solo;

Derek Andersen – Alto Sax Solo

Congratulations to the following members of the high

school Chamber Ensemble and Concert Choir who

participated in the State Solo & Ensemble at Seminole

State College in Sanford on thursday, march 21:

Superior rating: Emily Carl (vocal solo); Sophia Hafner

(vocal solo); Kara Stacy (vocal solo)

Excellent rating: Vaviel Verner and Laurel Hesseltine

(vocal duet); Emily Carl, Amanda fulton,

Sarah Kettelkamp, Kirsti mutz (vocal quartet)

on february 27, members of the high school Chamber

Ensemble and Concert Choir performed the National

Anthem at the Detroit tigers/Atlanta Braves spring

training game at Joker marchant Stadium. While at the

game, students had the opportunity to take photos

with florida Governor rick Scott, who was working

at the game that day.

the Lakeland Christian School Library now features

artwork on display by students in grades K4-12. the

artwork is displayed on the walls and on easels all

throughout the library. the pieces will be rotated

on a quarterly basis. You can view photos on

the LCS facebook page.

{ 1 7 }

Page 18: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ 1 4 }

Equipping students for a lifetime of leadership is one

important aspect of the Lakeland Christian School

mission statement, and one of the best ways to equip

students is to show them what strong leadership looks

like. At LCS, there is no shortage of good leaders, and

assistant middle school principal Keith overholt is

definitely one of them.

mr. overholt came to Lakeland Christian right after

graduating from Baptist Bible College with a degree

in elementary education. He taught fourth grade for

two years, sixth grade for nine years and has served

as an administrator for nine years. the transition from

teacher to administrator was a natural one for him.

“When I was still in the classroom, I started

doing some tasks outside the teaching area,”

overholt said. “I found that those tasks

energized me. over time, it became obvious

to me that the Lord had given me some gifts

and skills that would be a good fit

for an administrator.

I also had some conversations with my administrators

who encouraged me in that direction.”

Among those who mentored mr. overholt was

Dr. Hubert Hartzler, the head of the graduate school

at Baptist Bible College, where Keith earned his

master’s degree in Christian school education and

administration. mr. Wayne Shimko and Dr. mike Sligh

are two other leaders who have mentored Keith.

Since becoming an administrator, Keith has

spearheaded many student leadership programs

at LCS, including the Student Leadership university

(SLu) program that equips students with the

necessary skills to step up as leaders and to

understand worldview issues.

LCS students participate in three different levels

of the SLu program. In SLu 101, students attend

a conference in orlando where they are prepared

to be leaders.

{ 1 8 }

faculty fEatuRE

LeadIng by exampLe: Assistant Middle School Principal Keith Overholt Spearheads Leadership Initiatives on Campus

many conversations are sparked each day by mr. overholt’s vast tie collection. most are gifts from current and former students.

Page 19: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

they learn about time management, the importance of

being a reader, personality styles and temperaments,

dealing with people, understanding a biblical

worldview, and having dreams and goals.

Students in SLu 201 make the trip to Washington,

D.C. where they have the opportunity to interact with

leaders of our government. they are challenged to look

outside of themselves and to influence others.

In SLu 301, students are exposed to places of

historical and cultural significance during a summer

trip to Europe. the program stresses the importance

of being knowledgeable about what is happening

in the world so that students can be relevant

future leaders.

In addition to leading the SLu program, Keith teaches

Life Calling, a class that helps students recognize

that God has a purpose for each life and that He is

preparing each individual student intentionally

for that purpose.

“We talk about biblical worldview,” Keith said. “We

spend a lot of time analyzing how God has designed

each person individually with gifts, abilities, interests

and dreams. We talk about goals and spend time

talking about their future. many of the ideas in the

class tie closely with ideas that are dealt with

in various SLu trips.”

many of the students in the SLu program go on to

serve as class officers and leaders of various athletic

teams, fine arts groups and clubs.

“As students have ideas, we are willing to work with

them and mentor them along the way,” Keith said.

“We want to foster their ideas.”

the SLu program and other leadership initiatives

at Lakeland Christian have helped many students

in various ways.

“one of the main things I’ve seen is students having

confidence to step up and try new things and step up

to lead,” Keith said. “I’ve seen students share ideas

and pursue their individual callings more fervently.

Students are being more intentional about what they

would like to accomplish and working to that end.”

Keith was raised in Hazel Park, michigan before

moving to Schroon Lake, New York for his high school

years. After graduating from Baptist Bible College,

he married LCS grad Jennifer oncu (Class of 1990).

the couple has six children – Carter, olivia,

reese, Jackson, Ellie and Ainsley.

{ 1 9 }

iN additioN to leadiNg the Slu program, keith teacheS liFe calliNg, a claSS that

helpS StudeNtS recogNize that god haS a purpoSe For each liFe aNd that he iS

prepariNg each iNdividual StudeNt iNteNtioNally For that purpoSe.

Page 20: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ staffscoop@lcs }

{ 2 0 }

lakeland christian School

science resource teacher

Fred wiechmann was the

recipient of a “Best

mannered teacher” award by

the National league of Junior

cotillions (NlJc), golden triangle chapter. the

NlJc is an etiquette and social dance training

program that involves thousands of students

nationwide. mr. wiechmann was nominated by

lcS student alex Babcock-latta, who wrote an

essay outlining his positive characteristics, how

he showed courtesy and respect for students and

why he is a good role model.

lakeland christian School is pleased to

announce that three new members have been

added to the lcS Board of directors. mrs. kristen

Bolter, mr. david miller and mr. cory petcoff

were recently elected to the board. this is the

culmination of a protocol of several months that

has included a thorough application, interview

and orientation process and participation in board

meetings as guests for the past three months.

“we are grateful for their commitment to

christian schooling and to lcS,” said dr. mike

Sligh, headmaster. “i know they will appreciate

your prayers as they serve in this important role.”

mrs. gaye lene hasha, a

member of the middle school

faculty, was recently invited

to join two honor societies –

phi kappa phi and kappe

delta pi. mrs. hasha is currently working on her

master of education (emphasis in english education)

at the university of South Florida.

mrs. Sandy Nilius (3rd grade), mrs. debbie Stump (3rd

grade), mr. Fred wiechmann (science resource teacher)

and mrs. Jennifer canady (riSe institute director)

recently traveled to St. louis, missouri for a National

Science teacher’s association Stem conference. they

look forward to implementing new and innovative

ideas at lcS. Stem stands for Science, technology,

engineering and mathematics. left to right: cory petcoff, kristen Bolter and david miller

Page 21: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ funstuff@lcs }

We asked members of the LCS family to tell us what some of their favorite iPad/iPhone/ Android apps are. Here are some of our favorite responses »

Next iSSue’S QueStioN:

what is your perfect summer day? tell us by emailing Sandy Johnson at [email protected].

{ 2 1 }

“Find my iphone. i lose my

phone all the time!”

– Jen overholt, lcS ’90 grad

and school parent

“my password keeper. too many

passwords to keep track of. grrr!”

– lynn pruim, administrative

assistant in Secondary office

“runkeeper. it measures, paces

and maps my runs. it also sends me

sarcastic notifications to get me

off the couch when i get lazy.”

– rob Beaudreault, school

parent and former lcS teacher

“red Stamp. it is an app that lets

you design cards that you can text

or post on Facebook. i like to use it

for birthday wishes and to send

encouragement to friends.”

– ellen oncu, Second grade teacher

“art Studio!”

– campbell rice, eighth grader

temple run 2. also, the Bible

app. i use it all the time.”

– reid reynolds, tenth grader

“the weather app, and my

flashlight app.”

– claudia powell, administrative

assistant in the headmaster

and advancement offices

“all my social media apps: Facebook,

twitter, pinterest and instagram.”

– Sandy Johnson, communication

Specialist and engage

magazine editor

Page 22: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

Engage: How many years did you attend LCS? Ashley: five years

Engage: What sports did you play at LCS, and what were some

of your major accomplishments?

Ashley: I played both basketball and softball from 2003 until 2008.

for basketball, I was the mVP in 2004-2005. I earned the girls’ varsity

leadership award in 2008. I made The Ledger’s All-County Honorable mention

in 2004-2005 and 2005-2006. I was Second team All-County in 2006-2007 and

first team All County in 2007-2008. for softball, I was the outstanding

offensive Player in 2006-2007, the Defensive mVP in 2007-2008 and

All-County Honorable mention from The Ledger in 2006-2007

and 2007-2008.

Engage: Besides sports, what else were you

involved with during your time at LCS?

Ashley: to be honest, when I was at LCS, academics and

sports were my main focus. I was involved in fCA, and I

volunteered in the community at Lakeland regional medical

Center and Jesse Keen Elementary. But as far as school, I

didn’t have any extracurricular activities outside my sports.

Engage: Who are some of the people who influenced you the

most during your time at LCS?

Ashley: that’s a tough question because LCS changed my life, and I often

think of the person I could have been without LCS. Coach overholt is

definitely at the top of my list. He taught me that basketball is more than

just a game I love; it’s a way to minister to others. mr. musick was beyond

an amazing science teacher. my love for science became even more

apparent in his class. mr. Livesay and mrs. oncu were so instrumental

because they were awesome teachers and so supportive in and out of

the classroom. mrs. Boulet was my outlet, and I thank her for that! my

friends and teammates were amazing. I may not have realized it then

but I look back on it now ... I loved LCS!

Engage: Describe the high school Ashley Wilson.

Ashley: though on the court or the field I made myself known, I was actually

really shy. for the most part, I stuck with my core group of friends and disliked

being the center of attention. my competitive nature carried over into the

classroom. I got along with everyone. I think I had a pretty good relationship

with all of my teachers. But for the most part, to this day, I’m still that girl who

played basketball at LCS!

During her high school career at Lakeland Christian, alum Ashley Wilson (Class of 2008) racked up a number of

awards for both basketball and softball. After graduation, Ashley played basketball at Covenant College before

transferring back to Lakeland to play for Southeastern university. After graduating with a degree in biology in may

2012, she joined the SEu fire staff as an assistant basketball coach for the women’s basketball team.

{ 2 2 }

aShLey wILSon Uses Coaching to Bridge the Gap After Playing Career Ends

sports FEAtUrE

Page 23: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

Engage: What are some of your best memories

from your time at LCS?

Ashley: In mr. Livesay’s class on fridays, we would

have performances by the Cheesy Biscuits (David

Hungerford, michael mutz, Hunter Abramson and

Weston rayborn). Everyone who knows them knows

that it was quite entertaining. In mr. musick’s class, I

remember him killing a fly with a rubber band one day.

And that same year, he caught a rat with a cupcake!

of course basketball stands out. my senior year we

only lost five games in the regular season and fell one

game short of the state tournament. the coolest part

is that our softball team made it just as far that year.

Lastly, mrs. Boulet and I had a blast together when I

was her teacher’s aide. Seriously, I left there with tears

in my eyes almost every day from laughing.

Engage: What are some of the things that you learned/

experienced at LCS that have helped shape who you

are today?

Ashley: I learned that adversity hits in life, but when

you are faced with it, approach it head on because in

Christ all things are possible. Also, it was no secret

that as a student at LCS, I was one of only three or four

African American kids in my class. I never thought it

would bother me, but at times, cultural differences

were noticeable. I gained a new confidence and

security in myself.

Engage: When you were in high school, what did you

plan on doing with your life?

Ashley: my goal was to play professionally overseas

and then come home to finish medical school to

become a neonatologist. None of that played out, but I

will be a nurse practitioner specializing in pediatrics or

neonatology within the next two and a half years,

so I’m happy about that.

Engage: After playing college basketball, how soon

did you start coaching?

Ashley: I graduated from SEu in may and was named

assistant coach in July or August.

Engage: Why did you decide to become a coach?

Is it something you planned on doing or did it

surprise you?

Ashley: I spent my time every summer working

basketball camps at Heritage Baptist and at LCS,

ministering and teaching the game of basketball,

which is obviously a passion of mine. the opportunity

to coach came up, and it was a way to bridge the gap

of my career ending and starting a new chapter. It was

very much a surprise. I’m not sure if I will be coaching

at SEu this coming season because of school, but I

really enjoyed myself.

Engage: Do you want to continue coaching

in the future?

Ashley: Now that I have had a taste of coaching, it has

made me rethink some things. I would love to coach

college basketball, though it was never in my plan. But

let’s face it … my original plan is out the window, so

after I get my master’s degree, I may wholeheartedly

pursue it for a few years. maybe you’re looking at

the next Pat Summitt. or maybe I’ll come back to LCS

someday and coach. Either way, I’d love to do it.

Engage: Besides coaching, what else do

you like to do?

Ashley: I’m a teller at midflorida Credit union.

Engage: What advice do you have for current

LCS students?

Ashley: follow your heart. If what makes you happy

glorifies God, do so with all your heart. People will

notice that there is something different about you. Be

a light for Him. Being a student at LCS, you somewhat

live in a bubble. But don’t look at that as a bad thing …

be thankful that you have amazing teachers and

staff who will help prepare you for what tomorrow

has in store.

Engage: the mission of Lakeland Christian School is

to educate students in the light of God’s word to equip

them for a lifetime of learning, leadership, service and

worship. How do you think that LCS did preparing you

for life?

Ashley: of course you will experience things in college

you would never experience in high school, but with

the help of LCS, I had a solid foundation which helps

me stand firm in my faith.

{ 2 3 }

aShLey wILSon Uses Coaching to Bridge the Gap After Playing Career Ends

Page 24: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ sportszone@lcs }

footBALLoffensive Small School Player of the Year:

Christian Alexander

Second team offense: Christian Alexander

and Jordan White

third team offense: rafeal Pressley and Cody Averitt

offense Honorable mention: Houston may,

Leroy Deshazor, and Grady Sharpe

Defense Honorable mention: Brad Peace,

Livingston Boulerice, and Caleb thomas

VoLLEYBALLHonorable mention: Brooke Wilsman, madison Pike,

Karlee Smith

SWIm/DIVEfirst team: Ly Velez and Carson Knox

Honorable mention: Stephanie Powers, Sarah mora,

tori Green, Hannah Giddings, Chloe Wineinger,

Stephen mutz, Derek Andersen, Jamie Aspinwall

GoLfSecond team: trent Harris

CroSS CouNtrYfemale runner of the Year: mallory White

Honorable mention: Jessica fuller, Brittany Lewis,

Kennedy Lewis, and Breanna Skladanek

BoYS’ BASKEtBALLSecond team: Will Portlock

Honorable mention: Brooks Wilson, Phil Wilsman,

Jordan White, michael oh

GIrLS’ BASKEtBALLHonorable mention: tess Horne, Jessie Andrew

BoYS’ SoCCErCoach of the Year: Grandy Streets

first team: Josh Sessums

Second team: Alex Sessums

Honorable mention: Blake Crosby, Luke Cabrera,

Price Cassidy, Chase turbeville, Cort Schofield,

Andrew Elliott

GIrLS’ SoCCErfirst team: Bailee mathers, Sydney rayborn,

Josie Koretchko, Bri folds

Second team: Charlie Eaves

Honorable mention: Carly Knox, Skyler Streets,

Ashlyne Wells, taylor tippel, mary Catherine Peace

{ 2 4 }

Congrats to the following LCS athletes who were named to The Ledger’s 2012-13 fall and winter All-County teams:

Page 25: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ sportszone@lcs }

{ 2 5 }

the Lady Vikings made it to the State Semifinals before falling to

St. John’s Country Day School 1-0. freshman soccer standout

Bri folds led the Lady Vikings and all of Polk County with goals

and assists this past season. In mid-January, Bri was honored

as the Brighthouse 47 Player of the Week.

» Camp registrationLakeland Christian School is currently

holding registration for summer sports

camps. Programs are available for

students in K5 through ninth grade,

including boys’ and girls’ soccer, boys’

basketball, cheerleading, middle school

football, volleyball and softball. A full

flyer and registration form are available

at www.lcsonline.org/athletics.

Contact the LCS Athletic office if

you have questions.

the florida Athletic Coaches Association announced their

fall awards, and several from LCS were included on the list.

Congratulations to the following Vikings:

Swim coach Kristin Livesay (LCS Class of 2005)

on being named the 1A Coach of the Year.

Junior Derek Andersen on being named to the

fACA 1A Academic All-State team.

Senior Jordan White was selected to the

3A All-State football team, and sophomore

Christian Alexander received an

honorable mention.

Swim Coach Kristin Livesay

Derek Andersen

Page 26: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ alumni@lcs }

2000s

Brice futch (’11) is currently with the Word of Life

Impact team traveling the country promoting the

Word of Life Bible Institute as well as sharing the

gospel and ministering in local churches.

Ethan marquis, (’11) enlisted

in the united States Air force,

completed Basic training in

october at Lackland Air force

Base in San Antonio, tX and is

currently in tech School for

Security forces. Ethan graduated in January and will

be stationed in Aviano, Italy for three years.

Jordan Cox (’09) graduated from the Le Cordon

Bleu College of Culinary Arts, specializing in french

Cuisine, in June 2012. He is employed as the Sous

Chef at the founder’s Club in Sarasota, florida.

Dylan Griffin (’09) married Brittany Burnetti (’09)

at the ritz-Carlton in Sarasota. Dylan is currently

working as a financial representative at Northwestern

mutual and Brittany is interning at Berkley Charter

in Auburndale in a fourth grade class. Brittany

graduated from Southeastern university this spring.

Ashley Pyle (’08) married Devin Behrens July 2012

and is currently living in tallahassee attending

Graduate School at fSu. Ashley is studying to

obtain her master’s in social work.

Laura Kirby (’08) is teaching third grade at Winston

Elementary. Laura also coaches the LCS swim team

and track and field team in the spring.

Weston rayborn (’08) is living in Lakeland

attending a discipleship program called mission

florida. Weston is a licensed minister in the

Church of God and is pursuing full-time mission

work overseas. Weston owns a photography

company called “Kalos Photography.”

Stevens (Seve) tombrink (’08) graduated from

florida State university where he earned a Bachelor

of Science degree in Sports management, as well

as minors in Business and Communications. Seve

is currently working for technisource as a technical

recruiter in the city of tallahassee, florida.

Kyle Crouse (’07) married Laura Barrand (’07)

october 1, 2011 and graduated from Palm Beach

Atlantic university in 2011. Laura is working as a

registered nurse on a surgical orthopedic floor at

Jupiter medical Center. Kyle has a bachelor’s degree

in business management and is working towards a

second bachelor’s and a master’s degree in orthotics

and prosthetics.

Kimberly townsend (’07) graduated with a bachelor’s

degree in civil engineering from florida tech in may

2011 and is working for the uS Army Corps of

Engineers in Galveston, texas.

{ 2 6 }

Page 27: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ alumni@lcs }

mark Cabrera (’06) and wife Kyli are the proud

parents of Haven Everly Cabrera born 12/21/2012.

they currently reside in ft. Wayne, Indiana.

Jericha o’Steen (’06) graduated from Cornell

College with a degree in Kinesiology. She is

currently working in insurance as an account

executive in orlando, florida.

Kyle Sligh (’06) graduated from the university

of florida and is presently attending seminary at

reformed theological Seminary. He is working

at Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church in

ocala, florida.

marie Kirby Davidson (’05) married robert Davidson,

June 3, 2011 and is loving married life. the couple

moved to Burlington, North Carolina after marie

took a job at Elon university in August 2011 as the

Women’s Basketball and Cross Country Athletic

trainer. robert works for KPmG as a senior associate

auditor. they are members of Harvest Baptist Church.

Sean mcNutt (’05) and wife

Samantha are the proud

parents of a beautiful baby

girl, Lorelai. Lorelai was

born January 26, 2013, and

weighed 4 lbs, 2 oz.

ozzie mutz (’04) and wife

Johanna are the proud

parents of Shiloh mcCune

mutz, born october 19, 2012.

Shiloh weighed 8 lbs. and

was 21 inches long. the

family currently lives just

outside of Boulder,

Colorado and enjoys all of the outdoor activities

God’s country has to offer.

Sarah Beth Clement (’07) graduated from the

university of Alabama in may, receiving her master

of Accountancy. Having completed the C.P.A. exam,

Sarah Beth joined PricewaterhouseCoopers this fall

as an assurance associate in Birmingham, Alabama.

Josh (‘03) and Greta (DeLange) friend (‘04) recently

moved to Seattle, Washington. Josh works as a

structural analysis engineer for Boeing. on march

30, 2013, daughter madelyn rae was born. She

joins big sisters Corrianne (4) and Amelia (2).

{ 2 7 }

Page 28: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ alumni@lcs }

» Note to Alumni Parents:

if your former student no longer

lives in your home but still receives

mail from lakeland christian at your

address, please email claudia powell

at [email protected] to update

their alumni information. you can

also make your updates online at:

http://www.lcsonline.org/support-lcs/

alumni-information-form

{ 2 8 }

1990s

Ben forlaw (’98) and wife Danielle live in Suwanee,

Georgia with their children riley Brooke and William

David. Ben is employed with Displayit, Inc.

April Wiechmann (’98) is living in Lakeland and

teaching seventh grade Life Science at Crystal

Lake middle School.

Nicole Sanchez (’97) and Hall Escowitz were

united in marriage on December 3, 2011, at the

omni Champions Gate in Celebration, florida.

the ceremony was officiated by the reverend

Jim Campbell. Nicole is a graduate of Samford

university and florida Southern College with a

master’s degree in nursing. She is currently

employed at LrmC as manager of mother/Baby

unit. Hal is a graduate of the university of

California, Los Angeles and Drexel university

College of medicine. He is currently a physician

in the LrmC Emergency Department. the

couple resides in Lakeland.

fred (’97) and Christina Wiechmann are the proud

parents of Christian (5), Eden (4) and rivers (1). the

family resides in Chattanooga, tennessee.

Bethel Stutzman Cleveland (’94), husband Paul

and big sister Karisa rose welcomed Kalena Grace

into the family on June 21, 2012.

Page 29: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

» We love to hear from you. News about you is important to us and to your

former classmates. Please email Claudia Powell

at [email protected]. Planning your class

reunion? Claudia can also arrange for use of

facilities and will offer other helpful tips.

{ alumni@lcs }

{ 2 9 }

Patricia Keil floyd (’93) is employed with troy

university in troy, Alabama as a student advisor.

Patricia and husband Ashley, along with big brothers,

Bradley (21), Blake (18) and tyler (14), welcomed

a sweet baby girl to the family – reese, born

September 13, 2012.

Keith Hubbard (’93) is in law enforcement in

Polk County and lives in south Lakeland.

Amanda Johnson (’99)graduated from florida

Southern College in 2003, with a B.A. in

communications and a minor in English. She serves

as a freelance writer and freelance consultant for

global missions and non-profit organizations. She is

currently freelancing with Love unVeiled (missions)

and serves as assistant editor and writer for ruby

for Women (Christian women’s magazine). In fall

2012, God led her to New England where she lives

and works on a horse farm while continuing

her freelance work. Her web site is

www.foreverinhimministries.com.

1980s

tammy Crouse (’87) is a supervisor for the Leesburg

Plaza on the florida turnpike.

terry Barrand (’82) is in her fifth year of employment

at LCS as the Elementary Administrative Assistant.

terry is enrolled at Polk State College and working

toward a BSN in nursing.

1970s

Alan Green (’78) is a local contractor serving

around the world through the ministry of

Construction for World Evangelism (CWE). Alan

has traveled to 26 countries in more than 40 mission

trips and has seen the God that lives within him do

amazing things all over the world. All surviving

members of the family have been on mission trips

around the world as well. they have seen God’s

faithfulness through the loss of two children

and many challenges. God is good … all the time!

to view even more alumni updates, please visit www.lcsonline.org/alumni/alum-notes/

Page 30: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ cheerfulgivers@lcs }

LCS Accepts Challenge!matching Gift offer Boosts Wrap-up Efforts

What if elementary students gathered for school

each day without access to SmArtBoards, a bank of

computers and the other learning amenities of their

beautiful, spacious, functional classrooms?

Can you imagine LCS football played anywhere other

than the spectacular Viking Stadium?

How about if Kindergartners were crammed –

elbow-to-elbow – in tiny, antiquated classroom space …

minus the space?

LCS students and families are certainly blessed

by the fact that these scenarios aren’t happening –

all because of the heartfelt generosity of people

who have made LCS a part of their stewardship

plans over the past several years.

that’s right, the unprecedented $23 million

transformation of the Lakeland Christian campus

has been funded, so far, entirely through private

giving. Parents, grandparents and other friends of

the school have stepped up to provide amazing

facilities for the benefit of the children and

young people of LCS.

It’s a remarkable blessing of the Lord that so much

has been given – more than seven times any previous

capital expansion project. And now, the school is

pleased to report that less than $500,000 remains

to be raised to complete this effort. Here’s how –

Just before Christmas, a generous ministry partner

issued a challenge designed to help LCS wrap-up

the campaign funding. this individual will issue a

$500,000 gift to Lakeland Christian the moment the

school receives $500,000 in commitments from the

date of the challenge. to date, $370,000 has been

committed, leaving only $130,000 to be raised

before the $500,000 challenge is met.

After the challenge is met and the matching $500,000

is received, the school will then need to receive just

under $300,000 in commitments to complete the

campaign. LCS is, clearly, on the home stretch!

the amount left to raise is certainly doable, in short

order. And the sooner this final amount is committed,

the faster we can pay off the loan and eliminate the

monthly interest expense to the school.

our plea? Will you be a part of the wrap-up? So many

gave to make our “new” campus possible in the first

place. We now need to finish paying for what we enjoy

each day. this is a financial priority for LCS. Can we

count on you?

for more information, or with help planning

your stewardship commitment, contact

Director of Advancement Steve Wilson at

[email protected] or at 863/688-2771.

{ 3 0 }

You can’t possibly be generous in your heart unless you are shockingly generous with your money. tIm KELLEr, PAStor & AutHor

Giving has Never Been Easier!

As God moves in your heart to joyfully support His

work at LCS, you can easily provide a gift or make a

pledge online, at www.lcsonline.org.

Page 31: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

{ cheerfulgivers@lcs }

Sold!School Auction Helps make LCS Education Possible

Winning bidders – people like you and me – went home

with fancy baskets chock full of goodies, vacations to

exciting locales, autographed sports memorabilia and fun

Saturday-morning adventures with teachers. However, the

real winners were the students who will now be able to

attend LCS through the benevolence of the school’s

financial Aid fund.

that’s right – making Christian schooling accessible is the

purpose of the school’s annual spring auction. Bids, Burgers

& All that Jazz was enjoyed by more than 400 people who

gathered in early march in the fellowship hall of first

Presbyterian Church.

Attendees had the opportunity to place bids on 100

top-notch “silent auction” items before competing for 22

fabulous items in the live auction. A complimentary LCS

matriculation fee was the grand prize in the Chick-fil-A

cow-tipping contest. Patrons also enjoyed burgers, a

mashed potato bar and homemade banana pudding.

for the second consecutive year, $60,000 was raised through

this event for the LCS financial Aid fund. this money has

been placed in the fund and is part of the school’s efforts to

provide tuition assistance for those struggling financially to

have their children at Lakeland Christian.

the school anticipates a need of close to $500,000 for

the 2013-14 school year. As in past years, LCS expects the

demonstrated need to exceed the available funds, so

additional donations to this critical fund are appreciated –

especially by students whose LCS education is in jeopardy.

families in Crisis Scholarship fund

in Need of Support

Imagine losing a parent, losing both parents

or facing an unexpected family trauma that

took away the opportunity for a you to

continue at LCS. Children facing crisis on the

home front need stability in the other areas of

their lives. the last thing they should have to

deal with is changing schools and leaving the

friends and teachers that care for them.

Several years ago the families in Crisis

Scholarship fund was established to

enable LCS students facing these types of

circumstances to continue at LCS. the stability

of remaining with their friends and teachers

that care has been critical in helping these

children and young people adjust to some

very difficult situations.

the families in Crisis Scholarship fund has

provided a vehicle for school families and

friends to give tangible assistance to these

students in need. We are already aware of a

need for approximately $5000 for the coming

school year, and we would love to see

additional funds available to meet future

needs that may arise. Please consider an

investment in the lives of students who need

the continued support of LCS. Donations

should be designated for the families in

Crisis Scholarship fund and made payable to

Lakeland Christian School. Donations to the

scholarship fund are tax deductible.

{ 3 1 }

Page 32: LCS Engage Magazine - Spring 2013

LakeLand Christian sChooL1111 forest Park Street, Lakeland, florida 33803

Non-Profit org.u.S. PoStAGE

PAIDLakeland, fLPermit No. 1

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