LCS Traditions Create Rich Heritage Tradition! by Dr

February 2011 The

VikingLakeland Christian School

LCS Traditions Create Rich Heritage Tradition! By Dr. Mike Sligh, Headmaster

As I stood at my 30-yard-line seat, feeling In the Old Testament exasperated by the Gators’ lack of offense, I felt the we see God employing the arm of the 70+ year old woman to my left suddenly use of tradition to teach His draped across my shoulders as she leaned into my people and to remind them body and began singing. This total stranger felt of His faithfulness. They ate perfectly comfortable invading my personal space the Passover feast to remind while belting out, “We are the boys from ol’ Florida!” them of their deliverance My friend on my right did the same. What was this from slavery in Egypt all about? Tradition! (Exodus 12). They lived in For as long as I can remember, and I have make-shift lean-tos during labored through over 50 years of being a Gator, the the feast of booths to recall Orange and Blue faithful have stood, linked together their journey on the way in this fashion, swaying and singing this traditional to the Promised Land song between the third and (Leviticus 23). They erected fourth quarters every game. It is rock piles to commemorate “Tevye identified part of the color and tradition that their miraculous entry into makes college football so special the land (Joshua 4) and God’s faithfulness (I Samuel 7:12). tradition as the for so many. Unfortunately, the rituals and traditions that were to point power by which, Whether the tomahawk them to God, became ends in themselves. God’s people were harshly ‘everyone of us chop and war cry, the Gator rebuked for replacing true worship with powerless, empty religious Chomp, Rocky Top, War Eagle, practice. By the time Jesus delivered the Sermon on the Mount, the knows who he or whatever your college football Pharisees had developed a very sophisticated but hollow religion is and what God traditional rite, we all know the with a low view of God and His Law (Matthew 5-7). Human tradition emotional connection felt when was incapable of establishing or sustaining a heart devoted to God. expects him to do.’” we engage in our various rituals, Later the apostle Paul warned of the danger of having our thoughts sing the alma mater and pull for “captured by human tradition” (Colossians 2:8). our favorite team. The mysterious In my study and preparation for this issue of The Viking, I have power of traditional behaviors like these make recalled many traditions that have been a part of LCS for our 57-year 75,000 total strangers feel connected and give them a history. Most of these traditions are associated with fun events that sense of shared identity. Their emotions ebb and flow engender many positive memories for our students. There are no for a few hours and shape their moods for hours or particularly serious or significant meanings behind such customs. days afterwards. These kinds of traditions come and go over time, adapting to the The power of tradition is nowhere more clearly taste and enjoyment of the students. portrayed than in the classic musical, Fiddler on the One foundational principle that has been a constant at LCS is Roof. Tevye and the citizens of Anatevka struggle the hallmark commitment to “Education in the Light of God’s Word.” against the forces of change that are washing over From the earliest school literature to the script written in stone in the their tiny village like an unstoppable tidal wave. elementary/middle school atrium, this phrase has provided clarity Tevye muses, “Without our traditions, life would be of purpose for LCS. The unchanging truth of God’s Word and an as shaky as… as… as a fiddler on the roof!” unwavering commitment to explore every area of life and learning Tevye identified tradition as the power by which, from a biblical perspective remain the top institutional priority. It is “everyone of us knows who he is and what God not merely a sentimental tradition. It is a driving force. expects him to do.” Linking our personal identity This commitment to the faith not only connects LCS students across to tradition is shaky at best. Keeping tradition as a the years, but also unites us with the people of God throughout the means of earning favor with God is a tragic heresy. continued on page 5 4TH ANNUAL

Proceeds Create Music Lab, Provide Financial Aid

Lakeland Christian’s elegant fall student musicians and vocalists. The singing a number of fun songs from musical event continues to satisfy in student groups included the Senior High “Mary Poppins.” The professional singers multiple ways. In addition to featuring Concert Choir, the Junior High Choir, the then offered a selection of Christian an outstanding program of popular Senior High Chamber Ensemble, the Sixth classics, including “Take My Hand Broadway hits, patriotic favorites and Grade Choir, the Heart of Joy (Grades 4 Precious Lord,” before concluding with Christian classics, the Musical Harvest and 5), and the LCS Symphonic Winds. three patriotic favorites. raises a substantial amount of money An audience of more than 300 This special evening of entertainment for important campus projects. enjoyed music from Broadway musicals is designed each year to raise money for The fourth edition of the Musical such as “West Side Story,” “Annie Get special campus needs, and the 2010 event Harvest, held in November at Trinity Your Gun,” “The King and I,” “Les did not disappoint. More than $50,000 Presbyterian Church, delivered another Miserables” and “The Scarlet Pimpernel.” was raised and will be used in two successful program featuring several After the intermission, the stage and different, yet important, areas – to create professional vocalists from across the steps were filled with LCS students who a Music Composition Lab and for the nation, along with more than 150 LCS delighted the patrons by enthusiastically school’s Financial Aid Fund. continued on page 13

p1, 13 p2 p3-8 Musical Harvest Fall Survey Heritage and Traditions in this issue p11-12 p14-17 p21 Fine Arts Sports Alumni News 1 So What Do the Parents Think? Fall Survey Provides Valuable Feedback

Last fall LCS parents were asked and priorities. The desire for the same way. Respect for the diversity to respond to a survey on a variety of the school to reflect the biblical of perspectives is an important factor to topics from academics to overall school foundations on which the school was consider in planning. culture. The LCS administration has founded are reflected once again in The survey results confirmed been reviewing survey results as one this most recent survey. the priority of three initiatives means of obtaining parents’ perspective. The spiritual foundation and already underway: This feedback will be valuable in the mission of LCS has always been the top 11) The LCS board of directors, current strategic plan development priority expressed by parents. Equally administration and faculty are involved process which is designed to focus school as strong is the expectation of high- in the review and refining of the improvement efforts for the next three quality academics. This is a logical school mission, vision and core values to five years. connect. When one clearly grasps the documents. The goal is to ensure that Responses representing 356 calling to do all to the glory of God, the biblical foundation of the school students were received. This represents the commitment to the highest level of be expressed with great clarity and 35 percent of our student body. Parents professional educational practice for focus. This is not about changing the were asked to complete individual our students becomes an imperative. foundational principles. It is about surveys for each division of the school Some other themes that emerge expressing those as clearly as possible (primary grades, upper elementary, from the most recent survey include: in order to keep the main thing the middle school, high school) in which ✦ concern for the quality and main thing. they have students enrolled. quantity of homework assignments 2) Funds raised through Over the past 15 years, there have ✦ continued commitment to attract 2 Boosterthon, plus a generous gift from been three major parent surveys. One of and retain high-quality teachers a school grandparent, have enabled us the most dominant themes ✦ the recognition that student-to- to purchase iPad and iTouch technology expressed in each of student relationships present as well as other equipment that is being these surveys continues increasing challenges, particularly deployed at various levels in the school. to be the parents’ con- from late elementary through Teachers and students are exploring new cern that LCS stays true high school ways to implement these tools to enhance to its spiritual mission ✦ concern that our students take student learning. advantage of technology in their learning 33) A relationship education A review of survey comments initiative has been implemented in grades presented several areas of paradox. 8-12 to address the areas of relationships For example, the desire for rigorous and sexuality. The program will provide academics was coupled with the not only the biblical principles involved, expectation that the study time but also skills and support to enable our required by demanding honors and AP students to apply these concepts in their courses would not threaten students’ relationships. If students are unprepared opportunity to participate in the to meet the challenges in these important wide variety of co-curricular activities areas of life, it can lead to damaging offered. The open-ended responses on consequences affecting other relationships. various topics often portrayed opposite We are grateful for the participation assessments on the same topic. Perhaps of our parents in the survey process and that serves as a healthy reminder that look forward to utilizing this data in our all parents don’t see everything in ongoing efforts to make LCS even better.

2 The

Heritageand Traditions of Lakeland Christian School

On the Cover: Traditions make up a large part of the fabric of a school. Lakeland Christian’s soccer prowess is a longstanding tradition which has seen the school win six state titles. Multiple generations of student- athletes have worn the royal and white and have been a part of exciting matches on Gordon Field and, now, in Viking Stadium.

Pictured on the cover of this issue of The Viking is Girls’ Varsity Coach Jason Streets, Class of 1998 (back left), who played for LCS in the mid 1990s; Boys’ Varsity Coach Grandy Streets, Class of 1987 (back right), who played for LCS in the mid 80s; LCS junior Jordan Green (front left), whose father Mike (Class of 1984) played during the early 80s; and LCS seventh grader Skylar Streets, Grandy’s daughter and Jason’s niece.

Mike Musick Then & Now LCS Logo Then & Now Homecoming Then & Now 3 The Heritage and Traditions of

A Collection of LCS Traditions, Past, Present and, Perhaps, Future

How long must an event or practice continue before it earns the “tradition” label? The following is a collection of LCS traditions – some past, some enduring and some on the horizon. It is by no means complete. For alumni and alumni parents, it will be a “walk down memory lane.” For current students and families, perhaps it is a glimpse of what to look forward to as you experience the variety of events and traditions that will enrich your schooling journey at LCS.

Traditions Past Emerging Traditions Work A Thon Friday Night Football in Viking Stadium Spirit Week Hallway Decoration Competition Sports team hoodies Fun Day Viking dash Open House Fifth Grade Celebration Sixth Grade Celebration Hands-on science in the Wonder Room Traditions That Live On Sixth grade on-campus overnight “retreat” Spirit Week dress-up days (when you can eat Future Traditions? Tootsie Roll Pops in class!) Eighth grade trip to Tallahassee Fifth Grade Retreat Boosterthon Fun Run Fourth Grade St. Augustine Trip Dodgeball tournaments Senior Locker Hallway Seventh grade ropes course day School musical and play Elementary Olympics Christmas musical Green Meadows Farm Cracker Country Pep band at ball games A Never-Ending Tradition: Homecoming chapel Prayer Seniors’ front-row seats in chapel In addition to the many traditions Brooms in the band room – for “superior sweeps” listed above, the primary distinctive Turtle Town of LCS is the spiritual component Senior Nights to all that is done here. One of the The bands’ 30+ repetitions of Christmas carol most meaningful and longstanding medley in the Christmas parade traditions is the sending of “I Prayed Pizza on Fridays for You” cards to our current students Senior Trip and alumni from our faculty and Rose presentations to parents at Baccalaureate staff. What an encouragement to 100th day of Kindergarten know that someone prayed for you! Juniors’ “S-E-N-I-O-R” decorative letters in May Seniors’ “ten-day count-down letters” in May Senior verses at Commencement First and Second Grade Program

4 Traditions Lakeland Christian School

Why “Vikings?” By Dr. Mike Sligh, Headmaster

“You may ask, how did this tradition get started? I’ll tell you … I don’t know.” Tevye in The Fiddler on the Roof. From time to time I am asked about the tradition behind the school mascot. How did LCS end up being known as the Vikings? The image of Norse invaders raiding, pillaging and burning lives on in the minds of many. The helmet-clad, pony-tailed stock catalogue image hardly seems appropriate for the Christian school! So how did this happen? I had the privilege of attending LCS from 1958-1964 for 4th through 9th grades. The school had no high school in those years. During my elementary grade years, the teachers were looking for ways to develop student leadership and ownership in our small fledgling Christian school on Chiles Street. The Viking Then ... formation of a student council seemed like a good idea. We were charged with the responsibility of electing officers to represent each grade. One day the student council brought us together for a student government meeting. We met in the portable building that now stands north of Turtle Town. (That “temporary” structure was moved from Chiles Street to the current campus for short-term use in 1962!) In an effort to develop school pride and identity, the student council announced a contest to select a school mascot. The plan was to allow the students to nominate possible mascots to the student council. The potential mascot options were to be reviewed by the student council, and our august leaders would provide us with the two finalists from which to select our school mascot. (I think my nominee was “cougars” and I have no idea where that came from!) When we gathered in our portable assembly hall for the big vote, the student ... and Now. council presented us with the two finalists: Ambassadors and Vikings. In my way of thinking, we were faced with a choice that was no choice! While “Ambassadors” had a somewhat spiritual ring to it (“…for we are Christ’s ambassadors.” 2 Corinthians 5:20) who could envision the LCS sports teams we dreamed of having one day being called the ambassadors? Would we wear suits and attack our opponents with attaché cases? I was not crazy about “Vikings” but could not in good conscience vote for the less than inspiring “ambassador” moniker. Evidently, my sentiments were shared by the majority of my peers, and “Vikings” carried the day. In a subsequent election, royal blue and white were selected as our school colors. Vikings may seem like an odd mascot for a Christian school. But perhaps it will make sense to you, now that you know the rest of the story!

Tradition! Continued from page 1

union with Christ (Colossians 2:6) and provides the basis of our Shared tradition can invoke a sense of enthusiastic connection in deep shared identity and connection with all believers. the stadium or a feeling of community and stability in Anatevka. We must be careful to learn from the history of God’s people It can be an enjoyable sentiment, but it is no foundation for life. presented in the scriptures and throughout history (I Corinthians At LCS, we understand that only by grounding our students 10:6). We must guard against losing focus on the Truth of scripture in the solid foundation of the Word of God can we raise up a and the diligent pursuit of the implication and application of this generation that is not “tossed to and fro with every wind of Truth into the cultural context that shifts and changes around us. doctrine”(Ephesians 4:14). We are committed to educating our Tevye hoped that tradition would keep the residents of students in the light of the Word of the Eternal One “who does Anatevka from the instability depicted as a fiddler on the roof. not change like the shifting shadows” (James 1:17).

5 Alumni Return to Work for Alma Mater

Dr. Mike Sligh Mr. John Douglass Miss Nancy Snyder Headmaster Business Manager Elementary Music Teacher Attended until 1964 Attended until 1961 Attended until 1961 (no LCS high school at that time) (no LCS high school at that time) (no LCS high school at that time)

How did LCS impact What are some of Who were your your life? your best memories favorite teachers The community of of LCS? and why? families comple Sitting around the old Evelyn Wheeler Towler mented my church gas classroom stove – she gave me a love family and provided in the morning while for many subject many examples of warming our hands areas, mainly music godly adults as role models and biblical and feet; standing around the flag pole and geography – the world around us. And norms for life in many areas. We had to in the front of the school and reciting the perhaps my love for travel. do a great deal of physical work on the “Pledge of Allegiance;” and playing kick How did LCS impact your life? building and grounds in those days, and ball on the playground with my friends. The impacts of my education at LCS in the my family had a great deal of “sweat Why did you come back to work here? early years of the school have been very equity” in helping to keep LCS alive in the Dr. Walter Sligh, Dr. Mike Sligh’s father significant. I have carried the values of early days. I saw the commitment of my and LCS board member, wrote me while I Christian character learned in my home, parents to Christian schooling, and it made was completing my tour in the Navy and church and school as an elementary and an indelible imprint on my life. said there was a need for someone to give middle school student on to life – even What are some of the things that haven’t guidance to the Business Office. I had been today. I am grateful for the influence changed from the time you were a praying for God’s direction and saw this as spiritually ( I was so encouraged to read student until now? an opportunity to serve the Lord in a place the Word and know Christ daily and The commitment to education in the light that had impacted my life. personally), and make my relationship with of God’s Word. That has always been the What are some of the changes you’ve Christ the most important thing priority of the board and teachers of LCS. seen that make LCS even better as the in life. The commitment to keep the main thing years pass? Why did you come back to work here? the main thing has remained strong. From that old frame house on Chiles Street I prayed, and after teaching for 24 years at What are some of the changes you’ve to the wonderful facilities we have today… two schools in the Washington, DC area, seen that make LCS even better than in amazing! My wife likes to remind me that God led me back to years past? when she began teaching at LCS in 1969 LCS to teach. I’ve The LCS academic program continues to there was no air conditioning, no custodial been here 18 years. get stronger year by year. The quality of service – you cleaned your own rooms, you the faculty has improved over the years taught music, and has enabled us to provide the level of physical education, education that our students need to prepare etc. and all for $2,500 them for study and for life beyond high a year. Yes, some school. The facilities have been the most things have gotten noticeable appearance to the community, better but the mission but the most essential dimensions of LCS is still the same. will always be what goes on in the hearts and minds of the teachers and the students and the relationships that are fostered There is a small group of faculty, staff and here. The fine arts and administrators whose time as students at Lakeland athletic programs Christian School gave them the desire to return have grown in to their alma mater to serve here professionally. quantity and quality in remarkable ways.

6 Miss Susan Ellis Mrs. Claudia (Lewis) Powell Mrs. Luci (Ladd) O’Byrne Secondary Social Assistant to the Headmaster Primary Grades Studies Teacher and Director of Advancement Principal Class of 1975 Class of 1980 Class of 1988

Who were your How did LCS impact Who were your favorite teachers your life? favorite teachers and why? My third grade and why? Lou Palmer: She was teacher, Miss Chase, Mr. Musick was the coach of all the led me to the Lord and my favorite teacher girls’ sports for a long the investment all my because he made time, and we all spent teachers put into my learning fun and a lot of time together, so it was easy to get life to nurture my spiritual growth. genuinely cared. He knew when to push to know each other. I was always aware of me or challenge me in the classroom and What are some of your best memories her love for the Lord and her love for us. on the track. He was the example I needed of LCS? She required us to think and to work ... she to get through the tough high school years. Playing “Lost in Space” on the monkey bars didn’t tolerate laziness or wasting time. I still look up to him! during recess, Miss Chappell’s science class, Derek Keenan: He also made us think, attending the State Soccer Championship What are some of your best memories demanded obedience and didn’t tolerate in ’79, Chris Williams’ performance as of LCS? nonsense; but we knew he loved us and Rosanne Rosannadana at our Junior Senior Some of my best memories: stopping in the wanted us to do well ... and to learn to be Banquet, and our senior trip to Mexico, office to say hello to Mr. and Mrs. Myhrer. lovers of God. which aged Mr. and Mrs. Starling at least Seeing Mrs. Aldridge always brightened Sammy Brooks: He taught us Spanish in ten years. my day! I loved serving as a TA with Miss our sophomore year ... sometimes it is hard Barlow. I will never forget the cross country Why did you come back to work here? for Southerners to speak Spanish, but he team taking a trip to the beach; it was a To cover the cost of my daughter’s tuition. made it fun and helped us learn that it was tough workout! I loved the soccer games on What are some of the things that haven’t ok to laugh at ourselves and go on. our old field and the basketball games in changed from the time you were a Cecil Peacock: He loved God and Scripture the old gym (which is now the cafeteria). I student until now? and wanted us to do the same. He was remember when a group of us on the cross Weekly chapel, daily Bible class, Godly very patient, but he demanded respect and country/track team started an elementary administration, scripture memorization, made us respect Scripture in the classroom cross country team; over 100 students curriculum that is ... and in chapel. He was like everyone’s participated; we competed against Scott Christ centered, and grandfather sort of. He died of a heart Lake Elementary. Mr. Musick and Mr. attack while we were Why did you come back to work here? Johnson. on our Senior trip I am thankful I have been able to come to Mexico. “home” because I love LCS and what we are all about. For years, I yearned to work under Christian administration. I stayed in touch with Dr. Sligh for several years … hoping for the opportunity to teach at LCS. Each time I stopped by to talk to Dr. Sligh, there were no availabilities or opportunities. Finally, in 2006, the Lord opened the Currently, nearly 20 graduates work at door for my return to LCS. I have served Lakeland Christian School in various capacities. as the Primary Grades Principal for five years and have had the Here are just a few of their memories and opportunity to complete perspectives on Lakeland Christian School. my Masters Degree at Covenant College.

7 Alumni Return to Work for Alma Mater, continued

Mr. Darren Copeland Miss Kala Walls Miss Jenny Boulet Assistant High School Fifth Grade Sixth Grade Principal Teacher Teacher Class of 1990 Class of 1996 Class of 2003

Who were your Who were your Who were your favorite teachers favorite teachers and favorite teachers and why? why? and why? Mr. Musick, Dr. Sligh, Miss Metzler (Sharon One of my favorite Mr. Kirby, and Mr. Thomas): She made teachers was Mr. Johnson because everything about Livesay. I had him they made an school fun, we were for Statistics my intentional effort to invest in my life always singing and laughing; Mrs. Oncu: senior year. He had to deal with me AND and help shape me into a maturing She was my favorite high school teacher Rebekah Stargel! I remember how excited Christian man. after I started college because I felt prepared he was about statistics. He loved standard How did LCS impact your life? and confident in writing papers for even the deviations, and I remember thinking, “Who At LCS I developed a work ethic that has toughest professors; Mrs. Parrish (piano loves standard deviations? But hey, he is so served me well in all areas of my life. I teacher): She was my teacher for 10 years excited about it, I might as well try.” gained essential skills that fostered my and always took the time to talk about my What are some of the things that haven’t growth spiritually, and I learned the day with me and help me feel better if I was changed from the time you were a importance of investing in the lives having a bad day. student until now? of others. What are some of your best memories The mission. LCS is still about educating Why did you come back to work here? of LCS? the students in the light of God’s word. Because LCS is a place that I believe in. Senior trip to Venezuela, cheering on the The heart of the faculty is to partner with It was such a positive influence in my life boys/girls soccer teams, Spirit Week games students and parents to raise kids who will as a young man that I had to be a part of (it’s amazing how many 7th graders be Christian leaders. The teachers really that in the lives of others. LCS is not just a you can stuff in a VW Bug), tug of war care about the kids at LCS. Being a teacher school, it’s an experience. at Elementary Olympics, Home Ec with now, I realize they care about their students Mrs. Gibson where I actually managed to a lot more than I even imagined. What are some of the things that complete my first sewing project (and my haven’t changed from the time you were What are some of the changes you’ve only sewing project). a student until now? seen that make LCS even better as the The school’s vision for impacting young What are some of the things that years pass? people’s lives, many of the quality staff, haven’t changed from the time you LCS has a commitment to excellence. You and the sense of community. were a student until now? can take one look around the school and Fiestada pizza on Fridays, Mr. Musick, see that in the past 10 years, they have What are some of the changes you’ve dressing crazy for Spirit Week. taken that commitment seriously. You can seen that make LCS even better as the see the beautiful Elementary/Middle School years pass? What are some of the changes you’ve building and other campus changes. The The facilities and fine arts program along seen that make LCS even better as the outward changes are just the beginning. with an expanded years pass? The administration is heavily involved in offering of Our new facilities that give us giving the teachers the academics the resources and tools they need to teach. and athletics. space to enhance our We have cutting-edge teaching. technology in our classrooms. We have started to implement the best educational programs in the country into our curriculum. 8 Sixth grader Julia Canady will move on to the State Science Fair in March. Several students participated in the Middle School Science Fair in early November.

Six Middle Schoolers Place at Regional Science Fair

After competing in the LCS Middle School Science fair in McKown went on to earn a second place finish in the early November, several students went on to compete in the Microbiology category at the Regional Fair. Regional Fair on January 29. Six of these middle schoolers Other Regional winners were Christian Bedwell (3rd placed at the Regional Fair, and one was selected to represent place – Behavior), Jacob Allen (3rd place – Earth and Space Polk County at the State Science Fair in late March. Science) and Brandon Kaye (4th place – Engineering). Congratulations to sixth grader Julia Canady, whose first Other LCS fair winners were Scout Hunt (1st place for place project in Botany qualified her for the State Fair. At the 6th grade, Einstein Award); Brandon Kaye (2nd place for LCS fair, she received Reserve Grand Champion and the “Friend 6th grade, Future Scientist Award); Shelby Bedwell (3rd of Nature” award for having the project with the greatest place for 6th grade, Out of the Box Award); Jacob Allen application for environmental protection. (Bill Nye Award); Kacee Strickland (Special Award from the Eighth grader MacKenzie Bell, who was the LCS Grand Cleveland Heights Animal Hospital); Joshua Davis (Future Champion and winner of the “Future Scientist Award” for being Power Award); and Christian Bedwell (1st place for 7th the student most likely to enter a scientific profession, earned grade, “Future Scientist Award”). second place in the Engineering category at the Regional Fair. Mr. Fred Wiechmann (Elementary Principal), Mr. After earning third place for the sixth grade in the local Richard Fifer (retired rocket scientist) and LCS Class of science fair, as well as the “Real-World” award for having 2001 alum Mr. Joel Vogel (engineer) served as judges for a project with an exciting application for the future, Quinn the LCS fair.

Yrastorza Wins Second Place in Essay Contest

In honor of Polk County Family competition where he won second Week this past November, Mrs. Gaye Lene place in the 6th-8th grade category. Hasha had her seventh grade English Cole was recognized at the Kick classes participate in an essay contest on Off Celebration for Family Week. He “Why I Love My Family.” After winning top received a cash prize, read his essay honors in the LCS contest, Cole Yrastorza’s publicly, received a certificate and essay was submitted to the county-wide had his essay published in The Ledger.

Seventh grader Cole Yrastorza won second place in the Polk County Family Week essay contest. He is the son of Wanda and David Yrastorza (pictured here with him). 9 Conference Reinforces LCS Science Program By Mrs. Jennifer Canady, Middle School Science Teacher

My two roles of wife and middle school science teacher collided recently when I was invited to join my husband for a conference called “Science and the Courts” hosted by George Mason University Center for Law and

Economics. Some of the most eminent scientists in the country convened for Mrs. Jennifer Canady has introduced LCS middle schoolers to a week of seminars designed to help appellate-level judges from all across the some exciting new science programs in the past few years. United States, Canada and Israel understand the complicated scientific issues on which they must rule. Hearing from world-renowned scientists was both humbling and encouraging. As I took detailed notes on many hours of lectures, a remarkable pattern emerged. Much of what was being presented to judges to help them make sense of the most difficult issues of our time is precisely what we’re teaching our students in middle school science at Lakeland Christian School. I want nothing short of the best possible As Dr. James Trefil, the Robinson Professor of Physics at George Mason education for my students (which includes my University, took us through the scientific method, classification, the history own daughter). It can be difficult to judge the of science and the big ideas that shaped the foundations of modern science, quality of programs – particularly in a field like the notes I took looked remarkably familiar. As Dr. Marcia Angell, professor science that is constantly changing – and to at Harvard Medical School and former editor of the New England Journal of evaluate what it takes to help middle schoolers Medicine, discussed the reliability of scientific studies, I was encouraged to get a top-flight science education. After hearing know that my own students could have followed every word. Dr. Bruce Ames, from some of the most respected researchers in the an eminent biogeneticist and researcher from Oakland Children’s Hospital, country, I left the conference encouraged to know dug deep into the workings of DNA and then took time over lunch that we’re absolutely on the right track in science to encourage me about the research my own middle schoolers are doing. education at Lakeland Christian.

Two LCS Students Win Editorial Contest Jacob Allen Jake Albritton

Competing against 181 other middle or employment or about near-shore Sixth graders Blake Bellar and school students, sixth graders Jacob Allen oil drilling. Miss Jenny Boulet taught Triston LaPorte won honorable mention and Jake Albritton were two of this year’s the students how to write an editorial for their editorials. winners in the middle school division while Mrs. Jennifer Canady taught the During the students’ study of oil of the 32nd Annual Student Editorial science behind near-shore oil drilling. drilling, students read op-eds from the New Writing Contest sponsored by The Ledger. The teachers then entered 18 students York Times as well as articles by the Nature Allen won second place, and Albritton in the contest. Conservancy. Canady was able to use a earned third place. The students each The finalists were chosen by grant from the Southwest Florida Water received a cash prize and had their essay the Communications Department Management District (SWFWMD) to host a and photo published in The Ledger. at Florida Southern College, and the two-day “Organic Earth” seminar for sixth The contest asked middle school winners were selected by the Editorial and seventh grade students. Guests from students to write an editorial discussing Board of The Ledger. The Nature’s Classroom presented an oil their thoughts on preparing for college spill simulation to the students. 10 Johnson Earns Oliver Hobbs Award

Middle school band director Kathy Johnson was recently honored with the Oliver Hobbs Award, presented Mrs. Jill Jones (second from right) is by the Florida Bandmasters Association joined by her Tri-M officers at the FMEA (FBA). This award recognizes FBA Conference. Pictured from l-r: Carly The LCS Fine Arts Department won the Middle/High School Enrollment Tippel, Angela Douglas, Emily Tan, members who have consistently done Award for having 60% of secondary students enrolled in a music course. Courtney Payne, Jones and Andrew Tew. an exceptional job in the position of band director. Each district may nominate one Fine Arts Faculty, Students Attend person by secret ballot, and Johnson was selected by the Polk County band Annual Conference directors. The criteria for the award include being an FBA member for at The annual Florida Music Educator’s Association Annual Clinic/ least 15 years, serving as a current Conference was held in Tampa in mid-January. Members of the LCS Fine Arts band director in Florida, attending faculty attended multiple workshops, rehearsals and concerts related to their district and state meetings on a individual disciplines. regular basis, earning Superior ratings At the conference, Lakeland Christian School received the Middle/High at the District MPA competitions, and School Enrollment Award presented annually to “middle and/or high school serving the profession as an officer, music programs demonstrating high enrollment in music courses.” Currently, committee member or helping with 60 percent of secondary students at LCS are enrolled in music courses. Kathy other FBA events. Johnson was also presented with the Oliver Hobbs Award by the Florida Johnson directs the fifth and sixth Bandmasters Association (see separate article). grade bands, as well as the middle Five LCS choir students and three band students were chosen to participate school band. She also teaches guitar, in All-State groups during the FMEA conference. These students were chosen serves as the assistant high school band by musicianship, sight-reading and vocal audition, and participated with director and assists with the pep band. hundreds of their peers from around the state. Guest conductors from all over the US spent many hours in rehearsal with these students and presented Mrs. Kathy Johnson, middle school band director, excellent concerts at the culmination of the weekend. Students receiving this won the Oliver Hobbs Award. honor included: Amanda Fulton, Kara Stacy and Vaviel Verner – All-State Treble Chorus; Johnny Boatwright and Casey Jones – All-State Concert Chorus; Christopher Greene – All-State Middle School Band; Justin Middleton and Cameron Underwood – All-State High School Honor Band. Also at the conference, Mrs. Jill Jones, faculty Tri-M advisor, and the Tri-M officers attended the FMEA Student Leadership Workshop. This year’s officers are Emily Tan (President), Angela Douglas (Vice-President), Carly Tippel (Secretary), Andrew Tew (Chaplain) and Courtney Payne (Director of Children’s Choir). The students learned valuable leadership skills from speaker Fran Kick. The speaker used interactive teamwork activities to engage the students in learning lifelong social skills. He stressed the importance of being a leader who gives positive instruction and that actions always speak louder than words. “Being a leader of a group such as Tri-M means to put ideas into action, participating with the group and paying careful attention to the needs of others,” said Mrs. Jones. “This leadership workshop was a very fun and beneficial experience for all the Tri-M officers!”

11 LCS Fine Arts Department Completes Busy Fall

Dorothy and her friends listen carefully to the Wizard of Oz.

Fine Arts Department Presents Largest Musical in School History

With two sold-out performances, Chuck Fulton provided the music for The “Wizard of Oz” was directed by Teri the highest attendance at a musical and all the performances. Three additional Evans. Wendy Carl and Jill Jones assisted as the largest cast ever, this year’s “Wizard students served backstage. vocal directors. Choreography was taught of Oz” is one for the record books at This year’s cast featured Katie by Amber Salaz, Ashley Thomas and Sheron Lakeland Christian School. During four Greene (Dorothy), Brent Adriano White. Nancy Snyder served as the children’s performances over three days, the cast (Scarecrow), Johnny Boatwright director. Other faculty and staff members of this beloved musical entertained the (Tin Man), Jimmy Prescott (Cow- assisted with backstage help, sound and lights, crowds in the LCS auditorium. ardly Lion), Courtney Payne (Wicked scenic construction, bookkeeping and ticket This year’s cast consisted of 82 Witch), Amanda Carl (Good Witch), sales. Amy Maloy headed up the costumes, students across all ages, including Andrew Tew (Wizard) and Zach and the set design was coordinated by Mila 30 elementary students, 26 middle Varnum (city guard). Other students Adriano and Jesse Sharpe. Many parents schoolers and 26 high schoolers. A played various roles including the helped with costume and set design. Jonathan 16-member orchestra directed by Mr. munchkins and flying monkeys. Masters served as the technical stage manager.

Fourteen Chosen for All-County Chorus LCS Choirs Reach Out at Christmas

Fourteen LCS students were chosen to participate in During the month of December, the LCS Choirs had many the 2010 Polk All-County Choruses held in November opportunities to present the truth of Christmas to members of the 2010, at Florida Southern College. These students Lakeland community. On Wednesday, December 8, the Jr. High Choir were chosen by vocal audition and participated in visited Oakbridge Assisted Living Unit singing Christmas carols and performance with approximately 100 students per spending time talking with the residents. On Thursday, December 16, level chosen from Polk County. The students receiving the 6th Grade Choir visited the Emeritus Lakeland Assisted Living Unit, this honor were: Brent Adriano, Amanda Carl, singing familiar carols. It was exciting to see the residents singing Makaylee Graves and Courtney Payne (High School along as we were able to connect them to Christmas music of their Mixed Chorus); Christopher Greene, Kara Stacy past. On Friday, December 10, the HS Concert Choir and Chamber Vaviel Verner and Hannah Warren (7th-8th Grade Ensemble presented a program to the South Lakeland Rotary Club, Mixed Chorus); Abigail Garrard, Caroline Kitchens, held at the Yacht Club on Lake Hollingsworth. The LCS choirs are Taylor Mills, Paul Mowrer, Cole Singler and Alex thankful for the opportunities that Christmas gave for sharing the Vorndran (6th Grade Treble Chorus). truth of the gospel to the Lakeland community through music.

12 1 2

1 — School parents Christina and Greg Sale were two of the vocalists for the Musical Harvest again this year. 2 — Julia Wright Costa and Mark Thomsen perform a song together. 3 — Members of the high school Symphonic Winds performed a number of pieces throughout the evening. 4 — Juniors Emily Sharpe, Molly Rice, Alison Sizemore, Ashley Abbott, Nikki Aspinwall and Ciara Atkinson served as hostesses for the evening.

Musical Harvest continued from page 1

The composition lab will provide a place for aspiring young songwriters to develop their interests and hone their skills. Through state-of-the-art technology, students will have the opportunity to further 3 cultivate their musical creativity as they progress from playing the music of others to playing their original compositions. The majority of the money raised through the event has been placed in the LCS Financial Aid Fund. As a result of the country’s economic issues, more and more families are in need of assistance for their children to remain at the school. In fact, last year LCS provided the largest amount of financial aid in the history of the school – almost $500,000. Musical Harvest money was raised through sponsorships and ticket sales. The sponsors and those who purchased Gold Patron tickets attended an after-concert reception at the home of Dean and Gina Saun- ders. The guests enjoyed hors d’ouvres and an encore performance by the professional singers. School parents Greg and Christina Sale once again selected and hosted the national musical talent, as they have from the 4 inception of the event.

LCS extends appreciation to the following event sponsors:

Title Sponsor Sponsors Hosts Harrell’s Fertilizer Group Jack & Tina Harrell Payton & Keith Albritton Jaimi & Corey Miller Annette & Steve Sligh Horne Construction, Inc. Bena & Tom Bayless Adele & Paul Morgan Laz & James Smith Kevin & Lois Knowlton Pat & Ralph Blalock Lisa & Steve Moseley Sherry & Conrad Varnum MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Kim & Bob Cleghorn Melissa & Brad Murray Amanda & Ed Verner The NCT Group CPAs, LLP Barbara Hart Jean & Oz Mutz Marcy & Dave Wickenkamp OMS Pam & Bennett Hill Pam & Bill Mutz Kim & Jim Wilbanks Peterson & Myers, P.A. Danease & Jay Horne Beth & Lee Patteson Susie & Steve Wilson Sale Insurance Sylvia & Kevin Jones Mandy & Cory Petcoff Philip Sebring Ansley & Greg Masters April & Bart Richert Cheri & Todd Maxwell Christina & Greg Sale Shannon & Jeff Miles Bonnie & Streamline Sale

13 Boys’ Soccer Team Claims Second Straight District Title

For the second year in a row, the Viking Before the Vikings faced off against the Hawks, varsity soccer team added some new hardware LCS claimed an easy 6-1 victory of Foundation to the LCS trophy cases as they defeated Santa Academy in the semifinal game of the tournament. Fe Catholic, 2-0, in the Class 2A-8 District At press time, the Vikings were preparing Championship game. to take on First Academy in the Regional Senior Michael Emert scored the team’s Quarterfinals. first goal in the first half, and freshman Jake The Vikings are coached by Grandy Streets. Molony knocked in a penalty kick late in the After a rough 0-4 start, the team finished the second half. Senior goalkeeper Ethan Marquis regular season with a record of 15-7-1. held off the Crimson Hawk offense for his The JV boys’ team was coached by Bernardo fifth shutout of the season. This was the Blanco and finished with a record of 7-5-2. The first year that Ethan played soccer. middle school team, coached by Sheldon McVay, finished their season with a record of two wins, five losses and two ties. To view a complete summary of the season, visit the Athletic section of the Lakeland Christian School website.

Rachel Munson FHSAA Awards Fall Academic Team Champions, LCS Leads Class 2A Senior Swimmer Named Scholastic All American The Florida High School Athletic Association has named the Academic Team Champions for the fall sports season, and two LCS teams have topped Senior Rachel Munson, a standout the list for having the highest grade point average in the state. swimmer for LCS, has been named to the 2010 With a cumulative team GPA of 3.876, the girls’ swim and dive team USA Swimming Scholastic All America Team. took top honors in Class 1A. For class 2A, the girls’ volleyball team also took Just one of 39 female swimmers in Florida to the top honor with a GPA of 3.825. The girls’ cross country team finished in be recognized, Munson was required to meet second place in 1A, while the football team finished in the number four spot. minimum time requirements in swimming events With the first place rankings, the Vikings now lead Class 2A as the (100-yard breast stroke and 100-yard butterfly) overall Academic Team Champion with 50 points. This is the first year that and have a GPA above 4.0. Rachel is the first the FHSAA will award a year-end overall Academic Team Champion in each female swimmer at LCS to earn this honor. class. The top 10 schools in each category will receive points. Ten points are Rachel currently holds school records in awarded for a first-place finish, nine points for second, etc. The school in each several swimming events including the 100 breast- class with the highest cumulative point total for the school stroke, 100 butterfly and 200 individual medley. year will receive a special award. She was The Ledger’s 2009 Swimmer of the Year. 14 Wayne Peace Named Head Football Coach

In late January, Lakeland Christian School announced that Wayne Peace has been named Head Football Coach for the Vikings. Peace served as Quarterbacks Coach at LCS for the past four seasons. He replaces Bobby Dan McGlohorn, who resigned following the completion of the 2010 season. Peace, a Lakeland native, is a graduate of Lakeland High School, where he led the Dreadnaughts to the state semifinals in 1979. He went on to be a four-year starting quarterback for the University of Florida, setting school and NCAA records in the process. He was one of the most accurate passers in NCAA history and was featured on the cover of Sports Illustrated on September 13, 1982. Following college Peace signed with the USFL’s Tampa Bay Bandits, before opening a State Farm Insurance agency here in Lakeland. Peace assumes his head coaching responsibilities immediately as he prepares for the 2011 season. He and his wife, Melanie, have two children in college and two who are students at Lakeland Christian.

Lady Vikes Clinch District Title

It was a heartbreaking loss last season when Santa Fe Catholic broke a 12-year District Championship winning streak by the Lady Vikings soccer team. Even though LCS got revenge on Santa Fe in the Regional Semifinal game, the District title loss could not be forgotten. This season the Lady Vikings were going to make sure that it didn’t happen again. After easily handling All Saints’ Academy in the semifinal game of the district tournament (6-0), the girls squared off against the Crimson Hawks in the Class 2A-8 District Final. It took a little extra effort, but in a come-from-behind overtime victory, the Vikings reclaimed their trophy again this year. Down 2-0 at halftime, sophomore Kourtney Rea came out strong in the second half, scoring the team’s first goal just a minute in. Senior Shelby Pierce later scored on an indirect kick. In the overtime, senior Hannah Webster scored the game-clinching goal. The Lady Vikings, coached by Jason Streets, finished the regular season with a record of 14-4-2. At the time The Viking went to press, the team was set to square off against Trinity Prep in the Regional Semifinal Game. Visit the Lakeland Christian School website to view complete team results. The JV girls’ team was coached by Rob Terry and finished with a record of 7-7

15 FACA Honors Basketball Players, Coach

The Florida Athletic Coaches Sophomore Christin Strawbridge Academic All State Team. First year head coach Association has named its was named the 2A Player of the Year for Timo Strawbridge was chosen as the 2A Girls’ 2010-2011 basketball players and girls’ basketball and was also selected Basketball Coach of the Year. coaches award winners, and four to the 2A All State Team. Teammate For boys’ basketball, senior Jonathan Wilsman from LCS have earned top honors. Emily Bolter, a senior, made the 2A All was honored as the 2A Player of the Year.

Girls’ Basketball Team Strong Viking Hoopsters Rebound Under New Head Coach from Tough Start

After finishing the 09-10 season as After a tough 2-7 start to District Champions but with a record the regular season before the of just seven wins and 16 losses, Christmas break, the Viking the Lady Vikings were looking varsity basketball team came to improve this year. With new back in January with a winning head coach Timo Strawbridge, game plan. the girls did just that. Finishing The Vikings, coached by the regular season with a record Todd Radford, dropped some of 15-10, they were facing a tough games early in the District title match up against season, coming up just short rival Santa Fe Catholic as The against McKeel Academy (63-61), Viking went to press. Frostproof High School (52-49) and The Lady Vikes started the Mulberry High School (56-50). After season out by winning the Pre- the Christmas break, however, Season Classic in mid-November, the team went 8-2 as The Viking defeating Cambridge School was going to press. The Vikings and then Berkeley Prep. Despite defeated Fort Meade by a score struggling through early Decem- of 69-36 to start off the new year. ber, the girls’ team won their own The hoopsters then faced cross- Holiday Hoops Tournament and town rival Santa Fe Catholic and then defeated Mulberry High came up with a 49-41 win. Two School to end the year. victories over Sonrise Christian and After the break, the Lady another against Fort Meade gave the Vikings wrapped up the regular Vikings momentum as they head into season with big wins over Santa Fe the District tournament. (49-22 and 51-32), New Dimensions The JV team, coached by (58-17), Lake Region (46-31) and Frank Lopez, finished the season Out-of-Door Academy (44-39). at finished the season at 15- The middle school girls’ 2. The JH-Varsity team was basketball team was coached by coached by Jim Boatwright and Dana Fox and Kelly Lopez. They finished finished with an outstanding 10-1 record. The with a record of eight wins and three losses. JH-JV team went undefeated this season (11-0) and For complete results, visit the Athletics page on the was coached by Dwayne McDow. Lakeland Christian website. For complete results, visit the LCS website.

16 The Ledger Names Fall All-County Athletes

Congratulations to the following students for being selected as All-County athletes by The Ledger for the fall season:

Football: Senior Corey Stump (center) commits to play baseball for the University of Florida. He is joined here by (l-r) Offensive Honorable Mention – Athletic Director Mark Kirby, LCS Baseball Coach Blane Fox, and his parents Debbie and Duff Stump. Christian Alexander, Rob Harper, Daniel Smith Defensive Honorable Mention – Senior Pitcher Signs with UF

Blake Averitt, Ethan Marquis, Lakeland Christian School senior Corey Stump recently signed a Livingston Boulerice letter of commitment to play baseball for the University of Florida in Volleyball: Gainesville. Stump, a left-handed pitcher for the Vikings, finished the Second Team – Hailee Bennett 2010 season with 78 strikeouts and a 2.14 ERA. He plans to study either Honorable Mention – business or marketing at UF. Meagan Palm, Molly Rice, He is the son of Duff and Debbie Stump. His brother Jonathan Alison Sizemore, plays baseball for Berry College in Rome, Georgia. Christin Strawbridge

Boys’ Golf: Honorable Mention – Hayden Hill, Blake Crosby, Grant McKown, Brian Staes Alumni, Former LCS Teammates Girls’ Golf: Honorable Mention – Earn All-American Status Hannah Webster, Ellen Sharpe Tim Green and Kyle Crouse were friends and teammates first, then competitors, and now Cross Country: they both find themselves on an exclusive list First Team – Mark Mutz, of college athletes who make up the NCCAA Rebecca Eaves All-American Team. Honorable Mention – Class of 2007 alumni Green and Crouse Tim Green and Kyle Crouse (shown Taylor Scruggs, Jerod Fuller, played soccer together at LCS for many here as LCS seniors in 2007) were Jessica Fuller, Carrie Kirby, both named to the NCCAA years under Coach Dean Johnson. After they All-American Team. Breanna Skladanek graduated from Lakeland Christian, Tim went Swimming: on to play for Cedarville University (Ohio), and Kyle played for Palm First Team – Ly Velez Beach Atlantic University (Florida). Now as college seniors, Tim and Honorable Mention – Kyle met in December for the National Christian College Athletic Stephanie Powers, Association national championship game in Orlando—the final game Olivia Schichtel, of both of their careers. Palm Beach Atlantic came out on top in the Chloe Wineinger, Tori Green, national title game, but both players capped off their soccer careers by Nathan Lain, Luke Yrastorza, earning a spot on the 2010 NSCAA/Performance Subaru Men’s NCCAA Dallas Connell All-America Team. For Tim, this is the third consecutive year to earn the award.

17 Gifts TO Lakeland Christian School

On behalf of the students we serve, a heartfelt thanks to the following generous persons and companies who have partnered with LCS by providing a gift to the ministry. We were blessed by:

Mr. and Mrs. Tom Abramson Mr. and Mrs. Bud Gibson Mr. and Mrs. B. J. Mason Rev. and Mrs. Jesse Sharpe Dr. and Mrs. Ruben Adriano Mr. and Mrs. Guillermo Mr. and Mrs. Richard Mason Mr. and Mrs. Chris Shills Mr. and Mrs. Keith Albritton Gonzalez-Torres Mr. and Mrs. Greg Masters Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Shimko Mr. and Mrs. Joe Aldridge Mr. and Mrs. Clint Gordon Mr. and Mrs. Byron Matteson Mr. and Mrs. David Simpson Mr. and Mrs. John Allen Ms. Ann Grassfield Mr. and Mrs. Todd Maxwell Mr. and Mrs. Ronald Singler Mr. and Mrs. Charles Asbridge, Jr. Dr. and Mrs. Graham Greene Mr. and Mrs. Robert McBride Dr. and Mrs. Mike Sligh Mr. and Mrs. John Attaway Mr. and Mrs. Richard Greene Mr. and Mrs. Mike McCormick Dr. and Mrs. Stephen Sligh Mr. and Mrs. Robert Averitt, Jr. Ms. Patsy Ham Mr. and Mrs. Keith McDonald Mr. and Mrs. Dwight Smith Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Avery Mr. and Mrs. Les Harrell, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Tom McLaughlin Dr. and Mrs. James Smith Mr. and Mrs. Howard Bayless Mrs. Norma Harrell Ms. Barbara Meneely Mr. and Mrs. Michael Smith Mrs. Tom Bayless Ms. Barbara Hart Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Merchant Dr. and Mrs. Steve Smith Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Berry Mr. and Mrs. Donald Heacox Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Merz Mr. and Mrs. Steven Smithson Mr. and Mrs. Philip Beytell Mr. and Mrs. Holland Mr. and Mrs. Corey Miller Miss Nancy Snyder Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Blalock Henderson Mr. and Mrs. David Miller Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Sparkman Mr. and Mrs. Jim Boatwright Mr. and Mrs. Rex Henry Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Miles Mr. and Mrs. Joseph St. John Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Bolster Mr. and Mrs. John Herndon Ms. Traci Mines Mr. and Mrs. Geoff Stabler Mr. and Mrs. Hal Bolter Mrs. Robert Hightower Mrs. Norma Moore Mr. and Mrs. Michael Stacy Dr. and Mrs. David Bowers Mr. and Mrs. G. Bennett Hill Mr. and Mrs. Edward Mora, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Stanz Mr. and Mrs. Don Bradley Mr. and Mrs. Keith Hodge Mr. and Mrs. Paul Morgan Mr. and Mrs. John Strazzulla Mr. and Mrs. Bill Branham Mr. and Mrs. Louie Holmes Mr. Kevin Morton Mr. and Mrs. Dane Streets Mrs. Mary Ann Breathitt Mr. and Mrs. Boyce Horne Mr. and Mrs. Michael Mosley Rev. and Mrs. Robert Stubblefield Pastor and Mrs. Brady Brinson Mr. and Mrs. H. J. Horne Mr. and Mrs. Eric Mowrer Mr. and Mrs. Michael Sutton Mr. and Mrs. Carroll Bryant Mrs. Debbie Houghton Mr. and Mrs. Birk Mullinax Mr. and Mrs. John Szydlowski Dr. and Mrs. T. Brzozowski Mr. and Mrs. Bobby Howard Mrs. Bennie Jo Murray Dr. and Mrs. Bradley Tan Col. Charles B. Burdette Mr. and Mrs. Edmund Huckery Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Murray Ms. Jana Tombrink Mr. and Mrs. Clark Buurma Rev. and Mrs. Gary Hull Mr. and Mrs. Mike Musick, Sr. Mr. and Mrs. James Tomcho Mr. and Mrs. Frank Campano Mr. and Mrs. E. LaMar Hunt Mr. and Mrs. O. U. Mutz Mr. and Mrs. Eric Torres Mr. and Mrs. Charles Canady Mr. and Mrs. David Hurd Mr. and Mrs. Robert Myhrer Mrs. Evelyn Towler Mr. and Mrs. Brian Carroll Mrs. Mimi Jenko Mr. and Mrs. Robert Nagy Mr. and Mrs. Jim Turlington Mr. and Mrs. Michael Cassidy Mr. and Mrs. Daryl Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Alan Naughton Mr. and Mrs. Dean Turner Mr. and Mrs. Bill Chamberlin Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Nichols Mr. and Mrs. Conrad Varnum Mr. and Mrs. Brian Chapman Mrs. Stephanie Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Chris O’Byrne Dr. and Mrs. John Verner Ms. Kim Cherry Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Jones Miss Ellen Oncu Mr. and Mrs. Tom Watkins, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Bob Cleghorn Mr. and Mrs. H. L. Joyner Mrs. Judy Oncu Mr. and Mrs. Ted Weeks, IV Mr. and Mrs. Dan Cline, Sr. Sheriff and Mrs. Grady Judd Mr. and Mrs. Kelvin Oxendine Mr. and Mrs. Ernie White Ms. Pam Cole Dr. and Mrs. Derek Keenan Mr. and Mrs. Hugh Patterson Mr. and Mrs. David Wickenkamp Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Coleman Mr. and Mrs. Robert Kettlekamp Mr. and Mrs. Lee Patteson Mrs. Jean Widdowson Mrs. Lucy Anne Collier Mr. and Mrs. Mark Kirby Mr. and Mrs. Cory Petcoff Mr. and Mrs. Frederic Wiechmann Mrs. Jackie Davis Mr. and Mrs. Jon Kirk Mr. and Mrs. Robert Powell, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Jim Wilbanks Mr. and Mrs. Steven Davis Mr. and Mrs. Curt Kitchens Mr. and Mrs. John Powell Mr. and Mrs. James Williams Mr. and Mrs. John Douglass Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Knowlton Mr. and Mrs. James Powers Mr. and Mrs. Steve Wilson Mr. and Mrs. Bill Drost Mr. Erwin Knowlton Mr. and Mrs. John Prahl Mrs. William A. Wolfe Mr. and Mrs. Glen Duncan Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Knowlton Ms. Angela Register Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Wright Miss Susan Ellis Mr. and Mrs. Ray Kriegbaum Mr. Ron Riggs Mr. and Mrs. John Zeckler Mr. and Mrs. Perry Evans Mr. and Mrs. Allen Ladd Mr. and Mrs. R. P. Robbins Mr. Floyd Ziegler Rev. and Mrs. Roger Evans Mr. and Mrs. Jay Lamelas Mr. and Mrs. James Roberson Burnetti Children’s Foundation, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. G. Patrick Fagan Dr. and Mrs. Donald Langley Mr. and Mrs. W. Tom Rogers Harrell’s Fertilizer Group, Inc. Ms. Marne Fauber Rev. and Mrs. Michael Latham Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Rowe Murray Equipment Sales, Inc. Mrs. Nancy Fisher Mr. and Mrs. Robert Latimer Mr. and Mrs. Dale Russell Outsource Management Solutions Mr. and Mrs. Bob Forlaw Mr. and Mrs. Carl Lewis Mr. and Mrs. Jon K. Russell Peterson & Myers, P.A. Dr. and Mrs. Kwame Fosu Mr. and Mrs. Fred Lopez Mr. and Mrs. Jim Ryal Sligh Clinic of Chiropractic Mr. and Mrs. Avon Frier Mr. and Mrs. Robert Madden Mr. and Mrs. Bill Schichtel The Glenn W. and Hazelle Paxson Mr. and Mrs. Tim Frost Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Madden Mr. and Mrs. Steve Scruggs Morrison Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Fulton Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Maloy Mr. Philip Sebring Watson Clinic LLP Mr. and Mrs. Louis F. Garrard Mrs. Jeanice Martin Mr. and Mrs. Gary Sharpe

18 Living Memorials Library Donations The Lakeland Christian Library staff It is a joy to receive gifts that are sent to acknowledge a loved one. We are appreciates the generosity of those who grateful for the gifts received from the following: have provided recent book donations. The library counts on the regular In memory of: Mr. Tom Bayless In honor of: Mrs. Bena Bayless contributions of school families to Given by: Mr. and Mrs. Kale Albritton Given by: Mrs. Norma Harrell expand their collection for students. Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Allen Mr. and Mrs. Hunt Berryman In memory of: Mrs. Doris Gibson Mr. and Mrs. Paul Blalock Given by: Mrs. Robert Hightower Miss Danielle Allen Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Blalock Mr. and Mrs. Kent Atkinson Mr. and Mrs. William In memory of: Cooper Naughton Mr. and Mrs. Hal Bolter Coscioni Given by: Mr. and Mrs. Larry Mr. and Mrs. David Bowers Mrs. Norma Harrell Naughton Mrs. Jan Edgar Mrs. Peggy Kieffer Mr. and Mrs. Rex Henry Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Knowlton In memory of: Brad Langston Mr. and Mrs. Terry McNutt Mr. and Mrs. Edward Koren Given by: Mrs. Sybil Swoffo Ms. Shelly Schaedel Ms. Patricia Lagoni Mr. and Mrs. Steve Scruggs Mr. and Mrs. George Maguire Mr. and Mrs. Tom Standifer Mr. and Mrs. Larry Maxwell Mr. and Mrs. John Szydlowski Mr. C. Parkhill Mays Ms. Gwendolyn McLin Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey Miles Mrs. Anthony Miller Mr. and Mrs. O. U. Mutz Lakeland Christian School is the beneficiary of many Mr. and Mrs. Ray Phillips LCS Appreciates donated goods and services provided by school families Mrs. Cheryl Philpot and other friends. These gifts enable higher levels of excellence campus-wide. Mrs. Sandra Robinson Mr. and Mrs. J Michael Swaine Rhonda Reynolds and Star Pizza Box – For donating pizza boxes for sixth grade Mr. and Mrs. William Sweat solar ovens. Mr. Robert Tate Richard Fifer – For spending many hours organizing science fair paperwork Mr. and Mrs. M. Wright to enable middle school students to compete in the Polk Regional Science and Turner Engineering Fair. Mr. Hugh Wallace Mr. and Mrs. John Watkins Richard Fifer and Joel Vogel – For judging the middle school science fair. Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Weeks Sherry Herman – For her wonderfully creative cakes that she donated to Ms. Vicki Whitman Mrs. Stump’s third grade class. Mr. and Mrs. Steve Wilson Cathy Hamilton and Marsha Hannum – For coming in to help in Bank of Central Florida Mrs. Stump’s third grade classroom each week. Dixie Jet & Rotor Service, LLC Lakeland Properties & Judy Carroll – For donating a generous supply of specialty paints and other Management, Inc. supplies to the elementary art department. Lowe’s South Region Doug and Deni Burnetti and the Burnetti Children’s Foundation – For funding Construction: the teacher training and purchase of all supplies and props needed for the Mr. David Deal Relationship Education classes. Mr. Mike Harless Betty Miller, Lisa Douglas, Libba Griffin, Tammy Henderson, Deborah Saley Mr. Tony Cook and Lisa Turbeville – For volunteering to assemble, organize and prepare all of Mr. Shannon Love the supplies and props needed for the Relationship Education classes. Sebring High School, Class of ‘52 Kathy Fulton, Ana Liz Greene, Alice Middleton and Steve Jones – For seeJesus.net, Inc. chaperoning the All-State Band and Choir students in Tampa on January 13-15. Wallis, Murphey, Boyington Kettlekamp Family and Barbara Hart – For donating crutches to the Lakeland Architects, Inc. Christian School Athletic Department.

19 Apple Products Purchased with Boosterthon Funds, Grandparent Gift

Thanks to the Boosterthon fundraiser and the generosity of a school grandparent, Lakeland Christian School has been able to offer its students access to leading educational technology. The school has purchased 100 iPads, 50 iPod Touches, four MacBook Pro laptops and 20 iMac computers. Almost all of these devices are mobile and can be used in classrooms all over the school. The acquisition of these Apple devices allows LCS to be in the forefront of technology available today. From graphing algebraic equations to studying the solar system to digitally dissecting frogs, students from kindergarten to twelfth grade can use the products to become more engaged in the learning process and to experience many hands-on activities through modern technology. Students in Miss Jenny Boulet’s 6th grade class work together on one of the new iPads.

If you could play any By what age If you could only Grossest thing If you were picking musical instrument, have one piece of a new mascot for which one would do you hope to technology, which your parents ever LCS, what would you choose? be married? one would you keep? made you eat it be?

Blake Averitt Cello 22 Cell phone Pickled eggs The Blakes Senior

Brussels sprouts Mary Peace Guitar 26 Phone The Eagles Fifth Grade

By 65 Matt Nipper Xylophone Record player Broccoli jello The Anteaters Elementary PE Teacher when I retire

Cell Tori Green Piano 23-26 Green beans The Gators Seventh Grader phone

Ellen Oncu Liver and lima beans Violin 10 years ago My iPad The Wolverines Second Grade Teacher and beets YOUR TURN! 20 Alumni News

Note to Alumni Parents: 2000s 1990s If your former student no Faith Lay Williams (’04) and Christopher are the proud Mandy Corda Pinto (’99) and her longer lives in your home but still receives mail parents of Matthew Vernon, born on February 13, 2009, and husband Bill were married in April of 2010. from Lakeland Christian Abbigail Marie, born on May 25, 2010. Jeremy Secrest (’97) is stationed at Fort at your address, please Brett Register (’01) and Jamie Blair, a make-up artist in Irwin as a Combat Trainer with the Artillery. e-mail Claudia Powell at Hollywood, are engaged to be married and are planning a wedding Jeremy and Jessica Diane have been married [email protected] sometime in 2012. for five years. to update their alumni information. Tim Britt (’01) and Lanna Daniel Britt (’02) recently celebrated their sixth anniversary. Tim has completed eight years as a Military Police officer in the Army, and Lanna is a news producer who writes for “Special Report with Bret Baier” on the Fox News Channel. They currently reside in Washington D.C. Celeste Frank (’02) graduated in December of 2010 as a Doctor of Chiropractic from Life University and as the Valedictorian of her graduating class. Following graduation, Celeste married Phillip Holstein in Maui, Hawaii. Celeste and Phillip reside in Kennesaw, Georgia. Mr. and Mrs. Bill Pinto Mr. and Mrs. Tim Britt

We love to hear from you. News about you is important to us and to your former classmates. Please e-mail Claudia Powell at [email protected]. Planning your class reunion? Contact Director of Community Relations Julie Rice, at 863-688-2771, ext. 236, and she will arrange for use of facilities and will offer other helpful tips.

LCS Unveils New Website

The Lakeland Christian School website has a brand new look! After months of work by the web team at Winter Haven’s Clark/Nikdel/Powell, the LCS site is visually appealing, easy to navigate and full of all the information our current and potential families need to know about the school. The new site features: n Homepage links to RenWeb, lunch menus and the Faculty/Staff Directory n Scrolling features that highlight and link to the most important information or upcoming events at LCS n Updated news and calendar information n Links to Facebook, Twitter and the most recent photos n Admissions information including forms and tuition brochures n Much, much more! Coming soon on the new site: n An interactive campus map n Online giving n A brand new sports site with links to schedules, results and much more!

21 1111 Forest Park Street • Lakeland, Florida 33803 • 863-688-2771 • www.lcsonline.org Non-Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Lakeland, FL Permit No. 133

The Viking is published quarterly by Lakeland Christian School, 1111 Forest Park St., Lakeland, Florida 33803

Welcome Wednesdays Continue This Spring

Don’t forget that there are more Welcome Wednesday Admission Open Houses set for this spring. On March 9 and April 13, guests are invited to Lakeland Christian School from 8:30-10:30 a.m. During this time, visitors can tour the campus, meet with school representatives, view the school video and get all of the information they need to enroll their children at Lakeland Christian School. Keep thinking about potential families who might be interested in sending their kids to LCS and invite them to Welcome Wednesdays! Can’t make it to Welcome Wednesdays? LCS tours are also available any day by appointment.

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

March 8 March 28-April 1 April 1 April 8 Progress Reports Creation Care Week End of the Third Quarter Report Cards March 14-18 March 31-April 2 April 4-8 Spring Break Senior Play Achievement Testing (Grades 1-11)