The Official Publication of Metro Christian Academy Tulsa, Oklahoma WINTER 2013

Metro Christian clinched its fifth consecutive district title this season with arguably the best quarter of football in Jared McCoy’s six seasons as the Patriots’ coach.

The Patriots scored 41 points in the third quarter to overcome a halftime deficit and defeat visiting No. 6 Berryhill 54-20 in their showdown for the 3A-5 title.

“Forty-one points in a quarter is beyond any coach’s expectations, especially against a great team like Berryhill,” McCoy said.

The win against Berryhill is one of many memorable games of the season. This game was a culmination of an undefeated season full of shut-outs. The players, fans, and families will surely remember a weather-delayed game in Pawhuska where the game resumed at 11:30 p.m., ending at 2:00 a.m.! The players watched a couple of movies on the bus while waiting for the lightning to stop. The Homecoming victory over Claremore Sequoyah was especially festive with the addition of fireworks at half-time and a baby powder explosion in the stands that caught the attention of Fox23 and landed us the title of

Fans of the Week. Travis Meyer, Meteorologist from KOTV, aired his weather broadcast with Metro’s POM squad from our stadium prior to senior night where the following senior football players were recognized: Nick Anderson, Harrison Briggs, Luke Burchard, Danny Burke, Gage Calhoon, Greg Chapman, Cale Creedon, Jake Dowdy, Davis Frohrip, Hayden Hillenburg, Corbin King, Brady Rosser, Bewley Wales.

Although the season ended in a bone-chilling, heart-breaking loss in the 2nd round of 3A state play-offs, we move forward celebrating the legacy of football milestones that our seniors leave behind:

Class of 2014 Legacy:4 year regular season record: 35-5

4 year combined record: 43-9

4X District Champions: 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013

3X Bi-District Champions: 2010, 2011, 2012

2X Undefeated Regular Seasons: 2011, 2013

3X 3rd round play-off appearances: 2010, 2011, 2012

MCA’s 1st semi-final appearance: 2010

We are very thankful for and proud of Coach McCoy, his staff, and players.

Season Review: Oklahoma Christian 14-13 NOAH 50-0 Broken Bow 50-2 Pawhuska 44-0 Blackwell 35-0 Dewey 42-2 Verdigris 42-0 Sperry 46-0 Claremore Sequoyah 35-6 Berryhill 54-20 Okmulgee (1st round) 44-0 Hilldale (2nd round) 12-14

The scores from the 2013 Patriot football season tell the story of a strong team and reveal an excitement at the games spurred on by the fans in the stands. From chants to baby powder, the students led Patriot fans to uncharted enthusiasm.

Congratulations!

No. Last First Grade Pos1 Briggs Harrison Sr. DB/WR2 King Corbin Sr. DB/WR3 Calhoon Gage Sr DB/WR4 Anderson Abe So. LB/QB5 McCullough Carson So. DB/WR6 Nicholson Donovan Fr. DB/WR7 Burke Danny Sr. DB/WR8 Rogers Cooper Fr. LB/WR9 Schmitz Alex Jr. DB/QB10 Gibson Brody Fr. DB/WR11 Jackson Cash Jr. LB/RB12 Harrell Justin Jr. DB/QB13 Burchard Luke Sr. LB/WR14 Bierman Dylan Fr. DB/WR15 Smallwood Dalton So. DB/WR16 Rogers Logan Fr. LB/WR17 Lieder Grant So. DB/WR18 Fennell Jonathan Fr. DB/WR19 Lane Griffin Fr. DB/WR20 Frizzell David Jr. DB/WR21 Koenig Jake So. DB/WR22 Hillenburg Hayden Sr. DB/RB23 Gordon Jared Sr. LB/WR24 Gary Cavan So. DB/WR25 McCravy Braden So. LB/WR26 Sullivan Jacob So. DB/WR27 Wolfe Josh So. LB/WR28 Wagner Brody Jr. LB/RB29 Lutey Jacob Fr. DB/WR30 Ezell Zach Fr. DB/WR31 Graybill Eyan Jr. LB/RB32 Jackson Devante’ Fr. LB/RB34 Rippy Ryan Fr. DB/WR36 Ferrell John Fr. LB/WR43 Bailey Luke Jr. K50 Creedon Caleb Sr. OL/DL51 Davis Coleman Fr. LB/OL52 Wales Sam Fr. LB/OL53 Roe Jack Fr. OL/DL54 Row Tucker Fr. OL/DL57 Anderson Nick Sr. OL/DL59 Rosser Brady Sr. OL/DL60 Frohrip Davis Sr. OL/DL61 Frank Grayson Fr. OL/DL62 Johnson Max Jr. OL/DL63 Hendrix Kyle Jr. OL/DL65 Oler Kevin Fr. OL/DL67 Hatley Sam Fr. OL/DL68 Tedford Landon Fr. OL/DL70 Wales Bewley Sr. OL/DL73 Dowdy Jake Sr. OL/DL77 Foster Jack So. OL/DL79 Burchard Tim Jr. OL/DL82 Frizzell Robert Jr. LB/WR83 Chapman Greg Sr. DB/WR88 Shannon Blake Fr. DB/WR

Celebrating Metro Football Success!

Have you ever experienced that moment of wonder in a child – that instance of discovery and amazement when their eyes light up and their mouth drops open? Or, perhaps you have your own memories of experiencing that flash of awe and astonishment when you witnessed or discovered something astounding, revealing or miraculous. While these moments happen every day within the classrooms of Metro Christian Academy, it is easy to relegate those times of wonder and amazement to our childhood.

In the book of Isaiah, the prophet foretells of a coming leader; a child who is both man and God. One who will lead his people with peace, wise counsel and as a loving and caring Father. Isaiah states that this forthcoming one will be called “wonderful”. A man who will fully incite a curiosity and wonder within all those who experience him.

At Metro, our teachers are trained to foster and instill a sense of curiosity and wonder within the lives of their students, creating a fertile heart and

mind for learning. During this joyous Christmas season where we celebrate the birth of Christ, I invite you to once again open yourself to that sense of wonder. Allow yourself the opportunity to be curiously inquisitive about Him opening your heart and mind to His majesty, beauty, love and miraculous power. Prepare yourself to experience the wonder of who Christ is and the amazing things He has done for you.

On behalf of the entire staff of Metro Christian Academy, I want to wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a blessed and prosperous New Year.

With love and wonder,

Roger GerstenbergerHeadmaster

The Season of Wonder

IN THIS ISSUEDevelopment ................ 3

Annual Appeal Info ......... 4

Christmas at Metro ......... 6

High School News ........... 8

Middle School / Elementary News ........... 9

Fine Arts News .............. 9

Athletics News .............10

Retro Metro .................10

Alumni News ............... 11

For to us a child is born,

to us a son is given,

and the government will be

on his shoulders.

And he will be called

Wonderful Counselor,

Mighty God, Everlasting Father,

Prince of Peace.

IsaIah 9:6UPCOMING EVENTS

Save the Date

Metro Open House Tuesday, January 14

2014 MCA Hall of Fame Thursday, February 6, 2014

2014 Metro Dinner & Auction Friday, March 7th, 2014

Metro Slam Tennis Tournament Wednesday, March 12, 2014

Town Hall Meeting January 27, 2014 (evening)

February 27, 2014 (morning) March 27, 2014 (evening)

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As first semester is coming to a close, it is time to start thinking about your student’s enrollment for the 2014-15 school year. For this year’s re-enrollment, the Admissions Office is pleased to introduce a new online enrollment program! This will replace the paper enrollment envelopes from years past and will streamline the process by moving many of the information requests to the summer when we get closer to the school year. The look and functionality of online enrollment will be the same as the online orientation form from this past summer. The family and student data you entered during online orientation will already be populated in your online account which should save you time during the re-enrollment process.

In addition, you will have multiple options to pay the deposit portion of your student’s account balance. You may now pay the deposit via credit card, paper check, or e-check. Payment options of the balance of your student’s tuition will remain the same as prior years (lump sum cash payment, Cash2Payment, or bank note [K5-12th] through Arvest Bank. For P3 and K4 students, your payments will still be accepted via a monthly bank draft. Credit cards will not be accepted for payment of the balance of tuition or “to even” amounts for bank notes.

The re-enrollment process will start later this year since there will be less information to capture and to shorten the process for our families. Expect to see the online enrollment process to begin around January 15, with the re-enrollment deadline ending Sunday, February 2. Further details regarding online enrollment will be provided via e-mail and on Edline. These details will include the link to access the online enrollment form as well as a frequently asked questions document for re-enrollment. We hope that you enjoy this new and more functional process that will provide you with the needed flexibility to complete your student’s enrollment.

MCA 2014 Hall of FameWe have received nominations for the 2014 Hall of Fame and have begun the voting process.The ballot includes the following nominees:

All alumni are invited and encouraged to go to www.metroca.com/alumni to vote by Friday, January 3rd. The 2013 Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will be held Thursday, February 6, 2014.

Alumni:Ben Rector (2005)

Matt Pinnell (1998)

Dr. Tim Doty (1999)

Edward Snow (1986)

Faculty:Jane Ward

Audie Bradshaw

Eva Passmore

Administration:Jack Ojala

Verdell Schoats

Martha Embry

Board Members:Ray Duffy

Bob Schooley

Bob Skaggs

Metro Needs Bus Drivers!If you are interested in driving a

Metro Patriot school bus to special classroom and sporting events, you must have a

Commercial Driver’s License. You can obtain one through a process found at dmv.org.

You can also call Tim Thomas at 918-745-9868 ext. 399 for more information.

Metro Kindergarten

PreviewThursday, January 23, 10:00 a.m.

Parents and students invited

Includes:

• Meet and greet current Metro parents

• Kindergarten classroom visit

• Q & A with Kindergarten teacher

• Snack time while enjoying a taste of K-12 school philosophy

Re-Enrollment New and Exciting ChangesMCA Admissions Office is pleased to introduce a new online enrollment program!

Tell Your Friends About Our Open House

MCA will host an Open House for prospective families on Tuesday, January 14,

6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Please invite anyone who is considering a new school to come take a look at whatMetrohastooffer.Allgradeswillmeetat

6:00 to begin a general introduction to Metro with the principals. Families will then be separated into

Elementary and Secondary tours.

For more information, call 918-745-9868, ext 164

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AcademicsThis year’s projects will help Metro strengthen the science and technology programs. Metro is committed to advancing the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) offerings available to our students. A major need in this area is lab equipment that will strengthen our physical science and physics classes while also allowing us to introduce a new “Intro to Engineering” class in the fall of 2014. This project, coupled with voice amplification systems for our elementary teachers, and a new iPad cart that can be used by all students, will support strong technological interaction within each classroom.

Robotics Arena $4,475Physical Science/ Engineering Lab Equipment $52,196Voice Amplification - Elementary Classroom $3,643iPad cart $15,750 TOTAL $76,064

ArtsMetro has a proven history of developing and promoting the artistic, dramatic and musical giftings of our students. This year, we have two needs that will support the performance opportunities of all of our students. Metro’s current choir/band risers are old and dilapidated. We need a new set of risers and platforms that will assist our vocal, musical and dramatic arts programs. We also would like to expand the sound system in the MAC to allow for more musical productions and better sound.

Stage Tek Risers and Platforms $16,686Improved sound system for MAC $20,000TOTAL $36,686

AthleticsLast year, we were able to accomplish a number of smaller projects within our ath-letics programs. This year, we would like to undertake one large project. Metro’s main scoreboard in our football stadium has greatly exceeded its expected life. It is time for an updated scoreboard that accurately and clearly represents the game scores and stats of our athletes.

Football Field Scoreboard $25,000

FacilitiesThe upstairs restrooms used primarily by our secondary students are in dire need of an update. These facilities house many of the original fixtures, equipment and colors that existed 30 years ago. As we celebrate our 30-year anniversary, wouldn’t it be great to provide our students with upgraded facilities that can carry them into the next 30 years? This project includes new restroom tile, partitions, plumbing fixtures and paint.

New Student Restrooms Upstairs $65,000

EndowmentsThe Metro Christian Academy Foundation has been established to ensure the per-petuity of Metro Christian Academy and to oversee the endowments of the school. There are currently seven (7) different endowments that have been established with their own unique purpose. They include:

• General Endowment• Staff Development Endowment• DIC: The Eldridge & Woodard Memorial Funds and the Wanda Hartman Endowment• Building & Maintenance Endowment• Tuition Assistance Endowment

During this year’s campaign, we are asking for $50,000 in contributions towards our endowment accounts.

Endowment Contributions $50,000

Wherever Needed MostIf you would like to contribute within this category, your generous donation will be used to help pay for projects that did not receive complete funding through designated gifts.

Special Opportunities• 100% family participation within a grade level, at any donation

amount, gives the entire grade an additional Free Dress Friday in February, March and April. For a grade to earn the additional Free Dress Friday, all families within that grade must donate to the Annual Appeal by January 10th.

• Gifts of $100 (or increments of $100 up to $200) will be entered into a drawing for an iPad 2. Pledges must be completed by December 31.

• With each gift of $350 (or increments of $350), your family will be entered into a drawing for a $3,000 voucher for the upcoming school year. The drawing will be held in the spring. All pledges must be completed by year-end on Dec. 31st to be eligible for the drawing.

• Donations of $5,000 or greater will receive a reserved parking spot for the 2014-15 school year.

Enter my name in the following school tuition drawing(s):

Elementary Middle School High School

2013 Headmasters Annual Appeal Where Vision Meets Passion

For Class Participation / Free Dress Friday, I am the parent or grandparent of:

_______________________/______ Grade

_______________________/______ Grade

_______________________/______ Grade

_______________________/______ Grade

Matching GiftCheck here if you have a matching gift program with your employer, your spouse’s employer or a company with which youareaffiliated. ____________________________________NAME OF COMPANY(Please enclose appropriate form)

I would like to give a Gift of stock; please have someone call me at

__________ _____________ to arrange a stock transfer.

The 2013 Annual Appeal Projects

You could receive one of three Tuition Vouchers.HOW? By giving to your passion through this year’s Annual Appeal.

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Thank you for your support of Metro Christian Academy

I/We want to give $_____________ to the Headmaster’s Annual Appeal. A check is enclosed payable to MCA.

I/We pledge $___________ to be paid $_______ now and $_______ per month through May 31st of the current school term.*

I understand to be eligible for any of the special opportunities drawings my pledge is due by the end of this calendar year – Dec. 31st.

*Please complete payment of your pledge by May 31st. To be eligible for any of the drawings, the pledge must be paid by Dec. 31st.

* This statement of your intent can be revised should your circumstances require.

Name(s) for listing in the Patron RegistryName(s) _________________________________

_______________________________________

I would like my gift to go towards:

Academics

Fine Arts

Athletics

Facilities

Endowments:Building & GroundsDICGeneralStaff DevelopmentTuition Assistance

Wherever Needed Most

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSWhat is the purpose of the Headmaster’s Annual Appeal?

The Annual Appeal will be used to purchase high priority items that have been designated as imperative to meeting the vision of making Metro Christian Academy a regionally recognized, premiere Christian, college preparatory school. Each of the core areas within Metro will receive a portion of the proceeds that will be used on items designated by the administration. The goal is to match your passion and interest with an area of giving that will result in a benefit to the school and your children.

How will the funding be distributed? You determine where your donation is used.

Review the items outlined in the brochure then select a designation for your gift based on a category - Academics, Arts, Athletics, Facilities, Endowments or choose “Wherever Needed Most.” Our goal is to match your interest and passion with Metro’s vision of becoming a regionally recognized, premiere Christian college preparatory school.

What do I need to do? Review the categories outlined in the Headmaster’s

Annual Appeal brochure then choose an area where you would most like your gift to be used. Check the category, enclose your donation, and return the envelope to MCA. You can mail or drop off your contribution, whichever is easiest.

Please note that any gift of $350 or more (or for each increment of $350) your name will automatically be entered into a drawing for a $3000 tuition voucher for either elementary, middle school or high school. You will need to let us know in which drawing you would like to be included. The drawing will be held in February.

Why should I give? As a parent, you sought a school that would provide

your children with strong academic preparation within a Christian culture; where they would be prepared to stand strong in their beliefs when encountering influences of today’s culture. Metro

Christian Academy stands with you in a partnership to meet that objective and to raise young Christian men and women who will be the leaders of tomorrow.

We ask you to please remember why your children attend MCA and the value it brings to your family when considering a contribution to the 2012 Headmaster’s Annual Appeal. Your gift will make an immediate impact on the education of Metro students and increase the value of the education provided.

How much should I give? We are asking every family to participate; the

amount is up to you. All donations will make a difference in enhancing the educational experience at Metro Christian.

With gifts of $350 or more, (or for each increment of $350) your name will automatically be put into a drawing for one of three $3000 tuition vouchers that will be given away for elementary, middle school or high school.

Participation vs. Giving Amount, which is more important?

Both are important to the success of the appeal. Participation, at any level, impacts the decision of outside organizations in making grants to our school. Foundations want to see high participation from our patrons before committing their funding to Metro Christian Academy.

Rather than the Annual Appeal, why not just raise tuition to cover the cost of the items and projects needed?

If tuition was increased to cover the costs of the items outlined, many families and wonderful students could not afford to stay at Metro. This could mean a drop in enrollment, resulting in cuts in programs, steeper tuition increases and an overall negative impact to the quality of education for our students.

Is an Annual Appeal unique to Metro?No. Almost all private, independent schools,

colleges and universities, churches and other non-profit organizations rely upon the generosity of their constituents to meet operating and/or program

needs through a gift to a year-end annual appeal. This activity allows patrons to support the school and its vision through tax deductible donations.

Why do we ask parents for donations? There are foundations and local businesses that could help support the school. Do we ask them?

Yes. We solicit foundations and businesses in many forms of fundraising. Typically gifts from these organizations support capital building projects, they purchase advertising/sponsorships for events, and are available through employee matching programs, or provide in-kind donations of products and services. Ironically, Foundations and many large corporations base their giving decisions on the percentage of families that donate to Metro. Outside donors want to give to organizations that are strongly supported by their patrons. This is another reason why donations to this campaign are so very important.

Do corporate matching programs count?Yes. If you or your spouse work for a company

offering corporate matching, please take advantage of this opportunity. Many times corporations will offer 1:1 matching which doubles the value of your donation. Check with your HR department to find out if your company offers this benefit. Matching gift forms are typically available through your company’s employee benefits website or HR office.

Other information: Gifts to the Headmaster’s Annual Appeal are a tax-

deductible contribution. The Headmaster’s Annual Appeal runs from November through January. We request that all pledges be completed by May 31, 2013. Gifts of stocks are also accepted;

For additional information please call Teresa O’Donnell at 745-9868 ext. 154.

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Fifteen groups of high school students and two groups of middle school students hosted a Family Holiday Night for Marshall and McClure Elementary Schools. Over 250 kids and their families traveled room to room, participating in the games and activities. Metro students hosted musical chairs, BINGO, cookie decorating, scooter racing, and much more. After the festivities, our neighbors took home exhausted kids, holiday goodies, and even books and coats, donated by the Middle School families.

Marshall/McClure Holiday Family Night

Thank you to the following groups and their sponsors for helping make Family Night fun for one and all:• Spanish Club (Mrs. Frohrip) – Cookie Decorating

• National Spanish Honor Society (Mrs. Frohrip) – Candy BINGO

• French Club (Mrs. Burkhalter) – Candy Walk

• American Sign Language (Mrs. McCrate) and Leadership (Mr. Davis) – photos with Rudolph

• STUCO – BINGO

• Mrs. Perkins’ Advisory – Cupcake Walk

• Mr. Seller’s Advisory – Spin the Wheel

• Golf Team (Coach Mahaney) – Scooter Races and Noodle Tag

• Mrs. Annett’s Advisory – Turkey Cookie Making

• MS STUCO and NJHS (Mrs. Howard and Mrs. Zahorsky) – Sugar Cookie Decorating

• NHS (Mrs. Pile) – Leaf Bookmarks

• Art Club (Mrs. Vesanen) – Face Painting

• FCA (Mrs. Sanderson) – Ornament Making

• Mrs. Oyler’s Advisory – Musical Chairs

• Robotics (Mrs. Smith) – Robot Racing

• Show Choir (Mr. Augenstein) – Singing in the coat and book distribution room

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Fourth Graders Share Their Christmas Party

The fourth grade classes shared their Christmas party with students at Eugene Field Elementary School. They showed up with a goody bag for each child and Rainbow Looms to make rubber-band bracelets together. The students, parents, and teachers ended their time singing Christmas carols and rocked out to “What Does the Fox Say?”

Lights On!Christmas season at Metro doesn’t

officially begin until the annual Lights On program, put on by members of the Leadership class. As students and families entered the building they were greeted with Christmas cheer as the Show Choir sang at the main doors and the jazz band played by the cafeteria. “Father Time” was back to narrate the skit about Josh finding the true meaning of Christmas. Entertainment by the Sign Language class, worship leaders, show choir, and others were woven into the scenes. At the end, the decorated robots from the Robotics class stole the show and the auditorium was lit up with Christmas lights. Thank you to the faculty and students that took part in kicking off our Christmas festivities.

Operation Christmas Child

Following a send-off assembly, the third grade classes delivered a record-breaking 496 shoe boxes to the local distribution warehouse for Operation Christmas Child! They stayed at the warehouse and boxed up the shoe boxes to be shipped to needy children around the world through local churches and ministry partners of Samaritan’s Purse.

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high school news

Sapulpa Debate Tournament Results

Metro had another great weekend at the Sapulpa Debate Tournament. As a team, they placed second in 5A Sweepstakes.

Congratulations to the following students for their individual accomplishments:

5A LD DEBATE

Grace Heinecke- 1st placeJosh Yoo- 2nd placeSam Barber- 3rd Place

5A FOREIGN EXTEMP

Jack Foster- 1st place

CHAMPS LD

Caleb Oquin- 2nd place

CHAMPS FOREIGN EXTEMP

Caleb Oquin- 3rd place

Metro’s Prayer ChapelWe live with a certainty in the sun rising every morning. We also see the

world around us by the light of the sun that we are certain will rise each day. It is the same kind of certainty that C.S. Lewis professes in God’s Son rising from the darkness of death and shining a light of salvation into our lives. By this light, we see our faith more clearly. We see life and living from God’s perspective. Questions find answers. Doubts encounter peace. Mercy replaces revenge. Compassion overwhelms indifference. Kingdom priorities infiltrate our to-do list. Words become more precious, and so are not wasted on gossip and slander. With the light of Christ shining into our daily living, we tend to want God’s best for others in friendships, dating relationships and family connections. We see our future through a lens of “What can I do to make God famous?” rather than “What can I do to be successful?”

It’s a big picture way of living that can begin in small moments and spaces. Metro’s prayer room is a small, but significant place where we encourage students to carve out time for sacred encounters with God that give them more clarity and strength for their adolescent journey. Our hope is that the room beckons them to come and sit at the feet of the Savior for a while. There are several prayer activities set up, along with speakers for them to plug their worship music into and comfy chairs for relaxing and taking a deep breath.

The prayer room is across from the small gym and is open from 7:30 am – 3:30 pm M-F. Students can even use it during class time as long as they get a pass from the teacher whose class they’ll be missing. It can also be reserved in advance by signing up on the schedule at the door. Just one of the ways we hope to spur on students in following Christ for a lifetime.

“I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because

by it I see everything else.”--C.S. LEWIS--

State Champs!Metro Varsity Pom won the 5A State Championship at Oklahoma City

University!The coach, Amanda Snider, was the recipient of this year’s Coach of the

Year for the east division. Congratulation to the MVP members for their hi-kicking flawless performance: Ashley Champion, Caroline Friesenhahn, Meri Grace Francis, Claire Lehman, Shelby Smith, Ashlee Steffen, Cara Thoene, and Julianne Thomison.

Additionally, the following girls received the Academic All State Award: Meri Grace Francis, Ashlee Steffen, Cara Thoene, Julianne Thomison, Shelby Smith

Robotics CompetitionThe Middle School and High School robotics teams competed at Muskogee High School on Saturday,

December 16th at the FIRST FTC Qualifying Competition. Both teams did very well in all five matches, with high school winning two and middle school winning one. The middle school was nominated for the Motivate Award and both robots performed very well. They competed against teams from twenty-three other schools in Eastern Oklahoma.

Congratulations team members: High School: Nick Anderson, Spencer Keck, Jacob Lutey, Zac Price, and Carly Stewart, Middle School: Austin Bingham, Chandler Eng, Zachary Fennell, Levi Hudson, Wyatt Johnson, Cortland Jonas, Jack Mayfield, Gage McCoy, Bradley McNeese, Aiden McNeese, Aiden Winfield, and Phillip Woolslayer

Heinecke Yoo

Foster

Barber

Oquin

5th Grade Academic Bowl Champions

Congratulations to the 5th grade Academic Bowl Teams. Two teams competed in the Alpha Bowl Tournament and won 1st and 2nd place, ending in a final round against each other. Team members include:

Macy Abshere, Caleb Cain, Brady Gerstenberger, Evan Grantham, Owen Heinecke, Aden Henry, Kaity Holmes, Zach Huston, Caleb Kolman, William Long, Abby Morris, Sophie Patrock, Josh Ray, and Jackson Stone.

AuditionsJanuary 8, 9, 10 at 3pm in auditorium

High School and Middle School Only.See Mrs. Phillips for more information.

Show Choir on Fox 23 NewsThe Show Choir students took a field trip to Fox 23 News, where they

not only toured the studio, but taped several songs for the morning show Great Day Green Country. Show Choir’s segment airs December 24th and 25th. They performed several Christmas songs including Jingle Bell Rock and It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas.

NAHS InducteesCongratulations to the newest members of National Art Honor Society:

Ashley Baker, Bobbi Black, Callie Cotner, Katie Cripe, Kate Fisher, Nick Freeman, Whitney Fulluo, McKenzie Fowler, Peter Gerstenberger, Kalen Hill, Samantha Lawson, Carter Link, Margo Marsh, Lauren Rippy, Emily Rose, Kirsten Turner, Bailey Wyatt.

They join returning NAHS members: Lindsay Bailey, Elise Engles, Natalie Gary, Abby Henry, Lauren Higganbotham, Lily Lohrey, Leigha Odom, Mason Smith, Lauren Tedford, Chase Turner, Katie Volak, John Voth, Hannah Williams, Claire Zhuong.

NAHS Officers: President: John Voth, V.P.: Lauren Tedford, Secretary: Hannah Williams, Treasurer: Claire Zhuong, and Chaplain: Abby Henry.

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elementary news

athletics news

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Retro Metro - Torree McDowell (Class of 2005)

What’s your favorite Metro Memory?My memories of Metro cannot be slimmed down

into one favorite. My memories involve the great classic teachers in Mr. Kaiser, Mrs. Passmore, Mrs. Kelley, Mrs. Blake, Mrs. Crowder, Mrs. Ward, Audie B, Mrs. Easley, Coach Booth, Mrs. Neerman, Coach Cerar, and we can’t forget the woman who knew every single student at Metro...Yum! Lights on and State Championships. Leadership Class and Pep Rallies. Rivalries with Victory and Cascia Hall. New York City Carnegie Hall Choir Trip. Stu-Co, FCA, NHS, Spanish Club, Headmaster’s Lunches. The hallways after lunch smelling like recess because elementary school had just been outside. Being

jealous of Mrs. Staires P-3 class riding their tricycles to lunch. Sliding down the rails of the stairs praying you didn’t get caught! Sweet memories! I am so thankful for all of them!

What did you do after graduating from Metro?After graduating in 2005, I went to the University of Alabama for my

freshman year. I loved living in the South and being part of Bama. However, I wanted to be closer to home with younger siblings, so I transferred to the University of Oklahoma my sophomore year and graduated from OU with a degree in International and Area Studies.

What are you doing now?During and after college, I traveled to Rwanda, South Africa and Thailand

working with orphans, families, university students and churches. While in South Africa a few years ago, some of my best friends and I were having breakfast for dinner one night when ideas started to be tossed around.

What if we opened a breakfast restaurant in Norman? What if it was used to transform societies locally and globally? What if it was a business run on kingdom principles? What if it was used to plant churches worldwide? What if we opened a business for the sole purpose of having funds to completely donate? All these “what ifs” led us into the craziest journey of our lives. We now have a restaurant in downtown Norman called “syrup.” My role is day-to-day operations. One of our biggest goals is to connect relationally with everyone involved with syrup., our team, our food suppliers, our guests, our neighbors...anyone and everyone who walks through our door. We desire high quality in every aspect including team, food, coffee and business. Right now this is my world, I love it but it is nuts! In the future, my plan is to join my best friends and syrup. business partners in South Africa to church plant, as well as start a discipleship training school on the University of Cape Town’s campus. I love life here in Norman, but I know it is only the beginning of the adventure God is taking me on!

Do you keep up with any of your friends from high school?Absolutely! My first friend, Baylee Hickey, at Metro in 3rd grade is still

my best friend today! We had buddies for new kids, and I was the new kid paired up with her in Mrs. Horton’s class.

How did Metro prepare you for your future? Metro, everytime I hear Metro I spell it out like at a basketball game,

“M-E-T-R-O! clap clap clap.” One thing I loved about Metro is I didn’t have to choose to only be involved in one sport or one club. I could do it all, and I did! It allowed me to step into leadership opportunities, set me up for college success, and provided me with close community that I have had since elementary school. A good portion of the person I am today was formed at Metro.

New Athletics Website

Introducing Metro’s new athletic website, mcapatriots.com, where you can catch all of the latest news and updates concerning all of Metro athletics. Schedules, results and all of our team’s information can be found on the new website. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and sign up for text alerts notifying you of games scores and other pertinent information.

M-Power Wants YOU!Have you ever wanted to be a school MASCOT? Well here is your chance!

Anyone (boy or girl) interested in being the Metro M-Power Mascot, please talk with Mrs. Neerman. We hope to have a few students share the responsibility. Depending on how many respond to this, will depend on whether there needs to be tryouts. Freshman, sophomore and juniors are encouraged to do this!

M-Power is a Patriot representing all that is good and encourages students to feel empowered to make a difference in their classroom, community, and world.

Worldwide CompetitorJunior, Spencer Reed competed in the World Age Group Trampoline (15-16

age group) competition in Sofia, Bulgaria mid-November. He was one of four gymnasts chosen nationally to represent his age group (15-16) and one of only 49 United States gymnasts that competed at the Armeec Arena. Spencer placed 29th out of 74 participants from countries including Russia, Portugal, and Japan. In total, there were approximately 800 competitors from 47 countries taking part in the juniors’ equivalent of the World Championships, which spans all Trampoline disciplines, Individual and Synchronized Trampoline, Double Mini-Trampoline (DMT) and Tumbling, in four age groups: 11-12 years, 13-14 years, 15-16 years and 17-18 years.

alumni news

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Metro Alumni Light Up The Cowboy Stage

Each year, since 1970, Oklahoma State University hosts the Freshman Follies. The variety show has transitioned over the years from a Student Union Activities Board presentation to one hosted by the Office of Fraternity and Sorority Affairs. The transition took place in 2009 with the majority of those participating coming from this community. The Follies showcase freshmen from fraternities and sororities, student organizations, and residence hall, lighting up the stage with singing, dancing and “cheesing.” This popular show takes place at the Student Union Little Theater and is one of the biggest events of the fall semester.

We are excited to share that this year, Metro alum - Madison Stafford (Class of 2012) was named Director of the 2013 Freshman Follies. This is a huge honor. While Madison was busy running the show, she had lots of friends and former classmates supporting her efforts. The Freshman Follies include eight cast members from Metro Christian. The talent and enthusiasm of Metro students is alive and well at OSU!

The following alumni participated in Freshman Follies:Tommy Chapman (Farmhouse) Casey Schmitz (Pi Beta Phi)Addy Freiner (Chi Omega) Ryan Shoemaker (Alpha Tau Omega)Link Strickland (Beta Theta Pi) Josh Nosan (Sigma Alpha Epsilon)Connor Freese (Beta Theta Pi) Madison Stafford, Director (Kappa Alpha Theta)

Cavan O’Donnell (2013)Eagle Scout, Troop 16Scoutmaster: Dan ViseSponsor: New Haven Methodist ChurchParents: Shan and Traci O’Donnell

Sawyer Hillenburg (2009)Sawyer Hillenburg and Kyle

Evans were married July 27, 2013, at Camp Loughridge in Tulsa. The couple resides in Broken Arrow, OK.

David Fitter (2008)Lauren Guderian and David

Fitter were married August 10, 2013, at Kirk of the Hills in Tulsa.

The bride is the daughter of Bryan Guderian and the late Kathy Guderian, both of Tulsa. The bridegroom is the son of Debbie and Mike Fitter of Tulsa.The couple will reside in Tulsa.

Chelsea Preaus (2007)Chelsea Kate Preaus and Shane

Eugene Bloedorn were married May 18, 2013, at Christian Chapel in Tulsa.

Parents are Paula and Ken Preaus of Tulsa; and Renny and Dan Bailey of Coweta. The couple will reside in Springfield, Mo.

Jessie Brothers (2007)Jessie Brothers and Trent Vallier

were married August 3, 2013, at Uley’s Cabin in Crested Butte, Colo. Jim Kunes officiated. A reception followed.

The bride is the daughter of Brenda and Paul Brothers of Tulsa. She is the granddaughter of Mary and Jay Brothers and Betty and Gary Osborne. The bride graduated from Metro Christian Academy in Tulsa and Oklahoma State University in Stillwater. The bridegroom is the son of Karen and Russ Vallier of Chanute, Kan. He is the grandson of Mary Lou and Stanley Vallier and Shirley and Duane Bohm. The groom graduated from Chanute High School in Chanute, Kan. and Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kan. He is an Office Engineer with Crossland Construction. Maid of Honor was Hunter Brothers. Jake Morris was the Best Man. Bridesmaids were Lauren Oelhert, Taylor Vallier, Jennifer Canning and Caroline Riddle. Groomsmen were Jeremy Oelhert, John Brothers, Michael Brothers and Luke Brothers. Following a honeymoon to Telluride, Colo., the couple will reside in Broken Arrow.

Cameron Howerton (2006)Air Force Airman Cameron P.

Howerton graduated from basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, San Antonio, Texas. The airman completed an intensive, eight-week program that included

training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills.

Airmen who complete basic training earn four credits toward an associate in applied science degree through the Community College of the Air Force.

Howerton is the son of Debbie Ward of Broken Arrow, and Frank Howerton of Bixby.

He is a 2006 graduate of Metro Christian Academy, Tulsa.

Steven Watts (2004)Regan Michelle Mahl is engaged

to Steven Garrett Watts. The bride-elect is the daughter of Cherie and Kenneth Mahl of Broken Arrow. She is the granddaughter of Dulcia and Loy Phillips of Fayetteville, Ark. The prospective bridegroom is the son of Patsy Brewster and Dr. Garrett E. Watts, M.D., both of Tulsa. He is the grandson of James Witcher of Oklahoma City.

The bride-elect graduated from Holland Hall in Tulsa and the University of Arkansas in Fayetteville, Ark. She is in Alternative Investments with BOK Financial.

The prospective bridegroom graduated from Metro Christian Academy in Tulsa and the University of Oklahoma in Norman. He is pursuing his MBA at OSU Tulsa. He is a General Manager with Tri-State Industrial Group, LLC.

The wedding is planned for June 21, 2014, at The Mayo Hotel in Tulsa.

Sooner’s Got TalentOn November 8th, the Union

Programming Board held its first annual Sooners Got Talent talent show in Meacham Auditorium. With nine different acts, the night was full of entertainment and excitement.

The first act of the night set the mood with Ryan Lewis and Michele Archambo singing an acoustic duet of the Imagine Dragons song “Radioactive.” Judge Brooke Hamilton complimented the duo on the joy evident in their performance and the energy in the crowded auditorium after the song.

Lewis and Archambo met while attending Metro. They were on the Praise and Worship team together and performed in several school musicals, their favorite being Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. That history together allowed the pair to exercise spontaneity when it came to the audition, for which they decided and practiced just a few minutes prior. Despite their performing experience, Ryan and Michele have a humble approach to the show. Michele was most excited to see the other groups at the talent show and to see the audience’s response to Radioactive.

All the night’s performers set the bar high for future renditions of Sooners Got Talent, and it will be a delight to see what the coming years have in store.

Information from The Oklahoma Daily and the Sooner Yearbook.

The Wisemenby: Joyce Carr Stedelbauer

The rich caravan from the East slowed on the hillside before Jerusalem. The wise men carried treasure boxes of precious gifts wrapped with strong cords the color of sunrise.

They marveled at the golden sigh of the Glorious Temple rising about the walls of the city. Surely this must be the Temple of a great King. They would pay their respects and press on until

the miraculous STAR they were following finally stopped. They rejoiced and sang Psalms of ascent.

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How do you know it was His star?Did you have ancient prophets’ scrolls to study?

Were you perhaps Jews,descendants of Queen Esther’s people,

those who sat weeping and hung their harpsin the willow trees?

Did they stay behind when Ezra and Nehemiahled the return to Jerusalem?

After the first Purim celebrationwas business very good in Babylon?

Did you debate what Isaiah meant when he wrote thatA Virgin shall bear a Son,

and ponder how to find Bethlehem in Judeawhere Micah had spoken of the birthplace?

Did you nightly search the black-tented desert skies forThe Star that would arise out of Jacob?

There was no more wondering.Suddenly out of the pit of night, radiance rose,brilliance beyond measure. Without mistake,

this was a supernatural star, indeed,The Daystar.

Friends called you foolish.Hastily packing for an arduous journey.

preparing gifts for an Infant King,a mission without precedent.

The Star moved, you followed with courage like Daniel.Dry days, lavish nights under the Star-struck sky

until Jerusalem appeared like a golden citydescending out of heaven

and The Star stood still over a stable.

Yes, Isaiah, Micah, your directions were accurate.A Star did rise out of Jacob, from the house of David.

Wise men still kneel before the King of Kings.

Reference: Matthew 2