A newsletter for friends, staff, and parents of Summit Christian Academy

M M I

U T

S

C

H Y

R M I S E T D IA A N A C October 2017 S The mission ofaring Summit Christian Academy is to inspire students to achieve their God-given potential through excellent academics and Christian training in a compassionate environment. Contact Us: Acting Secretary of Homeland Summit Christian Academy Security Visits SCA Administration, SCA had a special visitor on campus on “One of the core values at SCA is Igniting Early Education, Secondary Monday, October 9. Acting Secretary of Leadership,” stated Head of School Linda 1500 SW Jefferson Homeland Security Elaine Duke spent the day Harrelson. “Secretary Duke spoke about the Lee’s Summit MO 64081 engaging with and presenting to students. importance of staying true to your path and 816.525.1480 “Secretary Duke shared with our students the importance of leadership for our nation.” Elementary in grades 2-12 about her love for country “When you are a Christian and in 1450 SW Jefferson Lee’s Summit MO 64081 and her life in civil service,” shared SCA leadership you are often judged by people,” 816.524.0185 Academic Dean and Elementary Principal shared Secretary Duke. “Your job is to serve Mrs. Kimberlee Gill. “We were thrilled that with as much light as you can so that your Linda Harrelson, Head of School Secretary Duke was willing to share so much actions and decisions reflect that light.” Joe Hesman, Secondary Principal of her Columbus Day with us in order to & Director of Operations inspire leadership within our student body.” Kimberlee Gill, Elementary Student Ambassador Alley Brown Principal & K-12 Academic Dean escorted Secretary Duke and related, “She Charissa Sanders, Elementary was amazing with kids! In an elementary Vice Principal classroom, she called every student by name. Julie Madsen, Early Ed. Director I loved how she shared that even when we are Lance Quessenberry, A.D. young, we have to remember that the popular Kathy Tharp, International decision is not always the right one.” Program Director Secretary Duke visited with the Sarah Coats, Dir. of Development government and debate classes, offering critique and encouragement and spoke in two Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Elaine Like us on assemblies about “love of her country and Duke presented to the students at SCA about igniting leadership.” her role in Homeland Security and leadership.

SCA Core Value: summit-christian-academy.org Igniting Inside Soaring: Leadership Spiritual 2-3 SCA embodies a culture A Note from Your Head of School 3 of servant leadership

Academics 4-5 that is sparked by a sense of individual Athletics 6-9 purpose. With Fine Arts 9-10 competency, credibility, International News 11 and compassion, we Acting Secretary Duke with members of the Debate Team who SOARING Parents 12-13 debated Immigration Reform and asked for her feedback on add value to others Health Clerk Reminders 13 the issue. L-R: Seniors Connor Healy & Ryan Sparks, Acting and influence the Secretary Duke, Speech & Debate Teacher Mike Evans, and marketplace of ideas. Upcoming Events 14 Sophomores Bryce Ferguson & Max Hammond. Page 2 Soaring The SCA Spiritual Walk Elementary Chapel: SOAR by Comforting Others by Charissa Sanders sin. We live in a blessed state when comforting those who need it. we are broken over our sin; when we You and your family may wish to “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” Matthew 5:4 are comforted by the relationship of partner with us by doing some of the forgiveness and in Jesus Christ. Jesus following activities: Have you ever been so sad that shares that the Holy Spirit is a gift 1. Read 2 Corinthians 1:4. Write the your heart and stomach hurt? How to His followers. It is the Holy Spirit word COMFORT on a piece of can a person be that sorrowful and who comforts those who are honest paper. Draw lines coming off of live a blessed life at the same time? about their own sin and humble the word COMFORT, like sunrays. Jesus addresses his followers in enough to ask for forgiveness and At the end of each line, write a Matthew 5 with a description of what healing. (John 14:16, 26) way to share God’s comfort to it means to mourn and be blessed. Students will be challenged to others. Examples: have lunch with In October, elementary students comfort others because they have them, send a note or encouraging are studying the second of the been comforted by their Savior. 2 card, play with them, pray with Beatitudes in Matthew 5:4, “Blessed Corinthians 1:4 says, “He comforts them. are those who mourn, for they will us in all our troubles so that we 2. Think of someone you know who be comforted.” The word mourn can comfort others. When they are needs comforting. As a family, means “to experience deep grief.” troubled, we will be able to give them help comfort that person by In this verse, Jesus indicates that we the same comfort God has given us.” doing something that will be an are blessed when we mourn over our We pray that our students SOAR by encouragement. Students Collect Backpacks for Hurricane Harvey Victims SCA students organized in when they distributed Mrs. Sanders shared. “They blessing to see these young and led a backpack drive them to families in nearby announced it in our daily ladies with such a heart to to assist a Christian school neighborhoods who were announcements and even help.” in the Houston area that is virtually starting all over. helped count and pack Students collected 288 ministering to neighboring “Renee and Elisabeth items when the drive was backpacks. families affected by made flyers and did all the complete. This was all their Hurricane Harvey. advertising for the drive,” vision and it was such a Moved with compassion for families who lost nearly everything, fifth grade students Renee Chapman and Elisabeth White worked with Elementary Vice Principal Charissa Sanders to organize the effort. Mrs. Sanders was able to connect with an administrator from Heritage Christian School in Pearland, Texas, who was organizing a drive to collect child-related items. With core values of Igniting Leadership and Cultivating Community, SCA desires to Heritage shared that it empower students as they seek to impact lives and serve beyond the walls of SCA. SCA would be a blessing to have fifth grade students Renee Chapman and Elisabeth White organized a drive and collected backpacks to put the items nearly 300 backpacks to send to devastated families in Houston. Soaring Page 3 The SCA Spiritual Walk SCA Students Serve Outside The Walls of SCA Some high school SCA Core students had the Value: opportunity to serve Cultivating beyond the walls of Community SCA with their small groups. Students went We recognize to locations including that the SCA Lee’s Summit Social community extends Services, Hillcrest beyond the walls of Thrift Store, Lazarus our school. Coming Ministries, and Hope from diverse Faith Ministries to backgrounds, we serve food, organize, and clean. unify around a simple statement of faith that binds us together. We acknowledge the responsibility of the parent, the role Mrs. Sue Santon’s kindergarten class of the church, and learned a little bit about Puerto Rico the authority of and took time to pray for the safety and the Holy Spirit in protection of families in the path of training students. Hurricane Irma.

Message from your Head of School It was an incredible honor Mrs. Duke observed the high school speech to have Acting Secretary of and debate students as they debated our country’s Homeland Security Elaine Duke immigration laws. She expressed appreciation for their and her husband visit SCA on arguments and complimented them on their research and Grandparents’ Day. thorough knowledge of the immigration debate. Then on Monday, October Students were allowed to ask questions, which Mrs. 9, Secretary Duke visited SCA Duke was pleased to answer. This was an incredible again to engage with students opportunity for our students, and for SCA as a whole, on a number of occasions. At a 2nd - 6th grade assembly, and we greatly appreciate Secretary Duke for taking Mrs. Duke spoke about her love for our country and time to spend the day with us. the life of service to the that she has led. It is so encouraging to see this high profile Christian (Thank you, Mrs. Gill, for asking her!) leader making decisions for our country based on her She spoke to the 7th - 12th grade students on the biblical worldview. Please continue to pray for our attribute and gift of leadership. She encouraged them country, our government officials, and in particular to pursue excellence in all they do and cautioned them Secretary Duke. to always remember that their reputations follow them Linda Harrelson wherever they go. Page 4 Soaring Academics ACT Scores Surpass City/State/National Averages SCA students taking the ACT college entrance test on the ACT and provides test-taking strategies. scored well above the city, state, and national averages Last spring, SCA announced that the school will be again this year. The composite score for the Class of covering the cost of the testing for juniors in the spring of 2017 was 25.2. The average ACT score for the Lee’s 2018. Students have the opportunity to send the scores to Summit R-7 school district was 21.9, with the state of four colleges of their choice at no additional cost. at 20.4, and a national average of 21. One hundred percent of the Class of 2017 took the SCA offers an elective ACT Prep class for students ACT and 94% are attending college, while the other 6% in grades 10-12. This course provides students with are attending a trade or military school. instruction and practice in the five categories that appear Parents Needed for Career Day Teacher Feature: The academic dean’s office they come dressed as they Diane Ferguson is calling for 50 parents to would for their day of work SCA is blessed to have Diane come join us on March 9 and be willing to answer lots Ferguson as an anchor to our for SCA’s first Purposed of questions! These parents science department! Gifted in for Excellence: Career will also be asked if they both science and math, Mrs. Exploration Day. Based on would like to be added to Ferguson has proven to be one Exodus 9:16, “But I have our list of guest speakers for of SCA’s most flexible teachers, raised you up for this very teacher access or even serve graciously willing and able to teach where she is most purpose, that I might show as future mentors for shadow needed. Since 2005, Mrs. Ferguson has taught dual you my power and that my days. credit math courses, biology, physics, health, anatomy name might be proclaimed Interested parents should and physiology, and environmental science. in all the earth,” SCA wishes email SCA mom Paula This year, she has picked up the baton to teach all to encourage our junior Shettleroe at pshettleroe@ junior high life sciences, A&P, and even a section of high students that they are kc.rr.com. Mrs. Shettleroe earth science! called and designed for a is heading up our fair and Mrs. Ferguson shared, “It was important to me that distinct purpose to further the has extensive education the heart of Donna Ambro continue in our junior high kingdom, whether that be as and experience as a career program.” a pharmacist, an engineer, a counselor. We are blessed Mrs. Ferguson does an amazing job in helping financial planner, or minister! to have her organizing our students learn the content while still enjoying being To help us in opening the parent volunteers. Paula is in the classroom. Her love for Christ and the students world of careers to students, working to establish a wide comes across in each class she teaches. With her we need people who are variety of parents for students expertise and knowledge of what is ahead, these passionate about their work to talk with: from nuclear students are blessed with an outstanding foundation in and are willing to share the submarine Navy men to science. preparation needed, the risks nutritionists and nurses, we Mrs. Ferguson has three children, Collin and and rewards, and the joy they want them all! Hannah who have graduated from SCA, and Ian, who have found in serving God Mrs. Gill shared, “This is a freshman. Having obtained his teaching degree, through their call. day promises to be another Collin is currently teaching in Italy. Hannah graduated Parents will be asked to example of SCA at its best. from Missouri State and is pursuing acting in Oregon. be at the school at 7:45 a.m. Providing opportunity to Academic Dean Mrs. Gill shared, “As our first for a brief overview, and discuss dreams with real Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Ferguson has always then will work with junior people is a combination sure demonstrated both the academic intellect and the high students from 8:30 to inspire students to achieve relational skills that make her a wonderful part of a.m.-12:30 p.m., with the the purposes to which God the SCA staff. I appreciate her ability to switch gears end of the day being lunch has called them. I cannot between age levels and subject areas. We are blessed with students. The only wait to see whom God brings to have her!” requirement of parents is that together!” Soaring Page 5 Academics Senior Represents SCA at Missouri Boys State Senior Russell Cook, son Accomplishments, positions held, and awards earned of Stuart and Cindy Cook, by Cook at Missouri Boys State include Citizen of participated in the 78th session of Boone City (which received third place out of 16 cities), The American Legion Boys State Citizen of Frank County (which won Model County of Missouri this past summer. Award); Member of the Nationalist Party; City Clerk Held on the campus of the (Cook was nominated for Outstanding City Clerk); University of Central Missouri County Committee Secretary; Delegate to County (UCM) in Warrensburg, Cook was Committee, Ward III; and Reporter - MBS Record. Cook selected based on his leadership, was captain of Boone City’s softball team, which got citizenship, academics, and character during his junior second place in the top division. year at SCA. Cook also attended Journalism School while All citizens at Boys State may vote and are eligible to participating in Boys State. hold office, as the program is designed to educate and “Boys State was an intense week,” shared Cook. train Missouri’s young leaders in functional citizenship, “My view on government was drastically changed. I leadership, and government. Nearly 1,000 student thoroughly enjoyed my week at Boys State, and I would leaders build an entire state government in a single week. recommend it to anyone.” SCA Celebrates A Lesson in Analyzing Artifacts Record Number of Sophomore American History “classics” to their contemporary Reader Leaders students began the school year by devices. inspecting and analyzing some To wrap up the experience, each Fifty-six Reader Leaders in first intriguing devices used for word team wrote a brief essay identifying through sixth grade took time out of their processing over the decades. similarities and differences between summer to read a book from an approved Each team was greeted by what the five artifacts. list and complete a written summary and/ historians call an artifact (an object The goal was to introduce this or visual tool of their novel. The Reader from the past) sitting smack dab in year’s focus in American History: Leaders were celebrated during a special the center of their island of desks. How do historians analyze and outdoor luncheon, where they were given Their initial task was to use an interpret multiple pieces of evidence the opportunity to present their reports. Artifact Analysis Worksheet from to form the most complete and This is the eighth year SCA has the National Archives to gather accurate picture possible of history? honored students through the Reader information about the strange device Ultimately, the limitations inherent Leader program. in their midst. They then used some in human truth are a stark contrast distinctly contemporary devices to the unchangeable, infallible truth (laptops or iPads) to conduct further of God’s Word. research on their unique device. Devices ranged from an early 1920s J.S. Smith typewriter all the way to a 1986 Macintosh S.E. Students had a great time figuring out when and where their word processing machine would have been used and how the various parts functioned (ribbons of ink struck by tiny metal keys?) Of course, they Second graders Elijah Zicari and Londyn couldn’t resist comparing these Foster, two of SCA’s 56 Reader Leaders. Page 6 Soaring Athletics Significant Strides in Junior High Boys’ Soccer by David Keller, Head Coach This season’s team boasts fifteen Cumberland, Jake Cumberland, Luke players and has played competitively Fleming, Memphis Hinton, Jacob in every match. Martinez, Zechariah Rhyne, and The season opened with a 3-5 loss Gabriel Wesselschmidt. Strikers are at Barstow, but was followed with Christian Phillips and Hudson Harris. a 2-2 tie against Heritage Christian. Assist leaders are Nate Bartlett and Traveling to Maranatha Christian, Memphis Hinton with four assists the Eagles recorded a lopsided 9-0 each. Goal scoring leaders are victory. Following an away loss to Christian Phillips (12), Nate Bartlett Kansas City Christian (3-6) and a (3) and Hudson Harris (3). home loss to Barstow (1-2), the team The team’s mission this year has rebounded with a 2-2 tie against a been “to grow in wisdom and stature strong Kansas City Christian team. In and in favor with God and man” the last away game of the season, the from Luke 2:52. Coach Keller sees Junior high soccer player Christian Eagles lost to Heritage Christian 1-3. this team better fulfilling its mission Phillips leads the team in goals for Based on these results, we’re looking with each practice and game. With the season. forward to a strong end to the season. several outstanding players from the The junior high boys soccer The starting goal keeper this elementary team moving up next program has made real progress. Last season is Jackson Staley backed up year to join this year’s five seventh season, we had nine players which by Hudson Harris. Defensive backs graders, the Eagles should field was two shy of a full complement are Will Osborne, Preston Goffinet, another team that plays competitively of eleven so additional players were Israel Wilson, and Mark Beumer. and reflects the mission of SCA. recruited from the elementary grades. Midfielders are Nate Bartlett, Cole Improvements Seen for Junior High Cross Country Earns Junior High Football Many Victories by Chad Friess, Head Coach by Kerri Kowalski, Head Coach This season has been a great season of Hebrews 12:1 says, “Let us run growth and learning. The roster features with perseverance the race marked many players with little to no experience out for us.” in tackle football. With only 14 boys, the Junior high cross country is majority of players don’t have much time coming to an end, just when the for rest. Despite all of this, the group made weather is beginning to cool off! progress with every practice and game. Our athletes have continued to work Junior high runners Katie Coats and Adriana McGregor They have improved by leaps and bounds hard during practice. We have had in communication, both with coaches and excited for a first place team some fun scavenger hunt practices win at Holden Invitational. teammates. Competitiveness, sportsmanship, and group run activities! Our home and conditioning are other attributes that cross country meet was a success, mainly due to the help of our have improved over the course of our season. parent and student volunteers! Thank you also to the dance team for However, what has made me most appreciate coming and helping out! It is always exciting for the athletes to be the opportunity to coach this group is their able to compete at home. genuine love for Jesus Christ and how they Our teams have represented SCA well as athletes have placed stand firm in that belief. These young men in many meets, both as a team and individually. More importantly, have bright futures as football players, but most importantly, as stewards for Christ. It they have represented our school well through their character while has been an absolute joy to coach this group competing. I see them interacting with other teams, congratulating through the trials and tribulations of the them at the finish line, and cheering for others as they cross the line. season; I feel blessed to be their coach. I appreciate the opportunity to work with these athletes. Soaring Page 7 Athletics Varsity & JV Win Crossroads Conference by Kara Totzke, Head Coach With only postseason next week, volleyball is quickly coming to a close. We have had a very successful season this year, with our varsity team currently sitting at 18-6-2 and JV at 11-5-3. The varsity team went 8-0 in the Crossroads Conference, beating Heritage Christian in the 5th set of an exciting home game. The JV team was also named Conference Champs when they won the JV Crossroads Conference Tournament. The varsity volleyball team will compete in their district tournament on Monday, October 16, and Wednesday, October 18, at The Barstow School. PINK OUT night for the volleyball team as each player We want to thank the amazing student body who has honored a loved one who has fought or is fighting a battle support the girls at home games! with cancer. Cross Country Running Strong by Rick McGregor, Head Coach Avery Lake, and Hayden Sommer all Cross Country has had a great contribute and are a real joy to have year! With the weather starting on the team. Practices have been to cool off, the athletes are really fun and the group really feels like starting to see their hard work in the family! It’s an exciting time for SCA heat pay off! The athletes have really runners. been pushing themselves and they I am excited about our team this are running faster than I predicted year and the future of the cross at the beginning of the year. Senior country program. Last year was captain Melody Joyce has medaled the first year for junior high cross in almost every race. She has a country and we have full boys’ strong determination in her that I and girls’ teams this year. I am haven't seen from her in previous also excited about our elementary years. Close behind her is Emmy teams that started this year! Fifth Varsity runners (L-R) Cienna Harris. This is the first year for her to and sixth graders are now running Romines, Avery Lake (back), Melody compete at SCA and she has proven in competitions and are doing quite Joyce, and Emmy Harris take off to be a tough competitor. Cameron well. It’s a great opportunity for from the starting line. Akeson has been a great addition to them to start running and develop a distances from 1-2 miles depending the boys’ team. He started late in the runner’s mentality at a young age. on the meet. It’s quite amazing season but has proven to be a solid This will only help our program to see these young kids and their runner with a desire to be better and continue to grow. They are able to determination to finish well in their faster. Cienna Romines, Anna Butler, run at four meets this year, running races. SCA Celebrates Red Friday The halls were a sea of red and yellow as students celebrated Red Friday in honor of the first home game of the season! Students enjoyed wearing Chiefs jerseys, t-shirts, and other gear, and ended the day with a pep assembly where the fall varsity sports teams were introduced.

Elementary students Logan and Mallory Moennig with Addi and Myles Jeffries get excited to cheer on the Kansas City Chiefs on Red Friday. Page 8 Soaring Athletics Football Team Gels as District Play Draws Near by Todd Berck, Head Coach The varsity football team has won four of their last five games as they prepare to finish their regular season schedule this Friday night versus Lighthouse Christian Academy. The team’s record is now 4-4 and they are currently seeded 2nd in Missouri Class 2, District 7. Based on current standings, the team will host the first round of district playoffs at 7 p.m. on Friday, October 20. The team has steadily improved all season and will need to continue this trend to make a deep run in the playoffs. The Eagles finished 2nd in Crossroads Conference play after losing an early game to the eventual champions – the University Academy Gryphons 46-41 in week two. Besides conference champions, the Gryphons are the number one seed in Class 2, District 7, so we could see a potential rematch for the district title. The varsity football team would like to invite everyone out the next two Friday Senior Sean Smith runs with the ball against East nights as they push for a deep run in the postseason. High School.

Varsity Boys Soccer Ready for the Next Level by Steve Korth, Head Coach unable to have a JV team captain and he has done an to team chemistry and The varsity boys soccer this year so the younger outstanding job in this role. success – Jack Pierce, Chris team will conclude its players have been trying to Many younger players Chiang, Collin Pemberton, season in the next two get as much playing time have also made an impact. and Tyler Simpson. Without weeks with the SCA Cup as possible in the varsity Junior Aaron Long, the these players, the starters followed by district play. games. team’s leading scorer, has would not be pushed hard Currently, the team has 6 The three seniors on this scored fourteen goals so in practice and we would wins and 12 losses. The year’s team – Luke Zizza, far this season. Sophomore not be able to do a lot of the team is young and has taken Josh Cassell, and Garrett goal keeper Jared Nitz is things we do. The role of a some time getting used to Sanders – have provided on his way to setting one, substitute player is a hard a new coaching style and needed leadership during if not more, state goal one. These players have expectations. Because of low the season. The team keeping records. Several taken on that role amazingly, player numbers, we were elected Josh Cassell as team freshmen – Jameson Staley, which is shown by their Michael Hall, and Jackson dedication and support of Maruschak – have also made their teammates on the field. important contributions. I look forward to working Add the freshman with these players for the contributions with those next several years and being made by sophomores Max part of their development Meyers, Joshua Fleming, as soccer players and Josiah Kim, Jakob Stillwell, young men. I hope to see Anthony Lint, and Noah the soccer program at SCA Hill, and the SCA Eagles become one of the highest have a bright future. Special quality programs in the appreciation goes out to area. It will take hard work those players who have and dedication but I firmly not seen a lot of playing believe we can do it. Junior Aaron Long fights to keep the ball. time but have contributed Soaring Page 9 Athletics / Fine Arts Alyssa Pemberton Takes Girls’ to State by Gary Breshears, Head Coach slow start and finishing a handful of strong back nine. Their performances The girls golf team finished shots out of the qualifying spots. showed a lot of character and heart. their season with some strong The state golf tournament was They have come far this season and performances at the district October 9-10 at Columbia Country it gives me a lot of optimism for next tournament at Shirkey Golf Course Club. MSHSAA shortened the year’s team. Any season that ends on September 25. Alyssa Pemberton tournament to an 18-hole round with a trip to the state tournament is finished 9th and Maggie Munsterman due to the condition of the course a successful season. finished 13th out of 49 players. Both after heavy rains on the morning of Finally, our young ladies girls earned spots on the All-District the second day. Alyssa Pemberton represented themselves, our school, team by virtue of their finishes and finished 59th out of 92 players. and most importantly God, in a way advanced to sectional play. Alyssa showed a lot of heart and that we can all admire. On October 2, the girls traveled character after struggling on the front to Maryville to play in the sectional nine. With determination, she played tournament at Mozingo Lake Golf the back twelve shots better than the Course. Conditions were very front. difficult as the wind blew 20-30 mph As the girls finished their season, all day long. Both girls had some I have a great appreciation for the trials and competed hard to try to resiliency of Alyssa and Maggie. make it to the Class 1 State Golf They both dug down deep in their Tournament. Alyssa finished tied for last tournaments of the season as 18th to snag the final state qualifier they both began their respective Junior Alyssa Pemberton lines up spot. Maggie battled to finish a really rounds with a disappointing first nine on the tee at the Class 1 State Golf nice back nine after getting off to a holes but persevered to finish with a Tournament. Junior Attends George Bingham Academy of the Arts Junior Darcy Thomas was accepted and participated in the George Caleb Bingham Academy of the Arts. She was given the Director's Award for Excellence in Creative Writing at graduation. Yale professor and guest author Sergio Troncoso said that he personally was impressed by Darcy’s writing. The five-week academy, filled with creative writing, music, theatre, and visual art, gave students the opportunity to work with some of the area’s top instructors in these fields in a college-like learning environment.

SCA Junior, Darcy Thomas, recently attended the George Caleb Bingham Academy of the Arts and was awarded with the Director’s Award for Excellence in Creative Writing. SCA Choir Members Qualify for the KC Metro Honor Choirs Several choir students were selected for the KC Metro Honor Choirs. Seniors Alley Brown and Emilie Moyer were selected for the Women’s Honor Choir and Senior Michael Werner and Sophomore Patrick Simpson were selected for the Men’s Honor Choir. These students auditioned with over 500 students from the KC Metro area and earned a spot in these prestigious choirs. L-R: Seniors Emilie Moyer, Michael Werner, Alley Brown, and Sophomore Patrick Simpson. Page 10 Soaring Fine Arts / This & That SCA Musicians Experience The Symphony Musicians from Mrs. Nagy's instrumental ensembles and their parents enjoyed a wonderful Kansas City Symphony concert at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday, October 1. With over 50 families in attendance, SCA took up more than two whole rows! The theme for the concert was "Superheroes in the Symphony," and the KC Symphony played themes from Star Wars, Spiderman, and heroic works of classical music. Geared for all ages, everyone had a wonderful time!

SCA Theatre Presents 7 p.m., November 9-10 2 & 7 p.m., November 11 SCA Elementary Commons 1450 SW Jefferson, Lee’s Summit

For tickets, go to www.showtix4u.com and type Summit Christian Academy in the search bar.

SCA Announces 2017 Homecoming SCA Moms and Students Candidates Share Sweet Morning Hundreds gathered at SCA’s annual “Morning with Mom,” sharing breakfast and a sweet time together before the school day began. Homecoming Candidates (L-R): Freshman Princess Aleah Finnegan; SCA mom Courtney Constant Sophomore Princess Kate Lyle; Senior Queen Candidates Savanna enjoys some added time with her Sallas, Kyla Brown, Glori Gronberg, and Alley Brown; and Junior daughter Chloe at Morning with Mom. Princess Maddie Kiethley. Soaring Page 11 International International Bonfire & Hayride A Huge Success International students, host families, American buddies, SCA teachers and staff, and those considering hosting in the future were in attendance, totaling 94 in all! Games were played, hot dogs were roasted, S’mores were eaten, and countless hayrides were given to ensure fun was had by all.

The highlight of the night was hearing the American buddies introduce the international students, and the international students introduce their host families. “I felt like I was in the Camp Rock movie. The bonfire was really amazing and a great American experience. I had such a good time that I did the hayride twice! I met new people I didn't know. It's going to be an experience I'll remember back in Spain!” said Junior Jani Ozalla Ciruelos.

Elementary Students Study World Cultures Each elementary class has a country of focus they will learn about and pray for throughout the year. A liaison is chosen to research and guide the class in exploring more about the people and culture of their country. The liaisons had their first meeting with International Program Director Kathy Tharp. “Our desire is to see students grow in their understanding and compassion of people around the world and to catch a glimpse of God's heart for the world,” shared Tharp. Makayla Welch is excited to share information about Guatemala with her second grade class. Second Grade Liaison Makayla Welch. Page 12 Soaring SOARING Parents The Importance of Watch D.O.G.S. at SCA by Karen Blue, SCA Mom current coordinator is Andy Coats who is a Lieutenant Several mornings each week you may see different with the Missouri State Highway Patrol and passionate men helping with the car line at school. They don’t work about the impact of the Watch D.O.G.S. program. at the school, so who are these guys? These are men who “I have the benefit of seeing how the program affects have graciously given all or part of their day to serve everyone. The teachers feel more supported and have SCA students and staff through the Watch D.O.G.S. a greater sense of security when a Watch D.O.G. is at program. D.O.G.S. stands for Dads Of Great Students, the school,” according to Lt. Coats. Additionally, he but any father figure including grandfathers, stepdads, or states, “Having positive male role models in the school uncles can be a WatchDog. cuts down on bullying and other negative behavior. The Jim Hight is the grandfather of Evan and Micah Watch D.O.G.S. benefit as well and have an opportunity Lefebvre and says, “I love the kids waving and acting to make a positive impact on the lives of the kids.” like they are so glad to see me.” He adds, “It is joyful The Watch D.O.G.S. program is very flexible and work that really matters.” participants can give a full or half day of their time. Watch D.O.G.S. provide a male presence at school Watch D.O.G.S. are given a plan for the day but also and are an extra set of eyes and ears in the halls and at have the flexibility to manage their time if they have recess, adding to the security of everyone at the school. to grab a call or check in with work. A typical day for First grade teacher Mrs. Mankin tells me that Watch a Watch D.O.G. starts with the car line. After that, D.O.G.S. “add a sense of fun” and “are so helpful and they have a picture taken with their student, help with bring another level of school/home connection to SCA.” recycling, and are given a schedule of places to be at Not only do the students and staff benefit from different times. They eat lunch and go to recess with the Watch D.O.G.S. program, the Watch D.O.G.S. their student. Throughout the day, they may help students themselves are rewarded with lots of high fives from the with reading or math, provide walk breaks, or simply be kids and a sense of appreciation and ownership in the an added resource for students and staff. Watch D.O.G.S. overall SCA educational experience. may even get to be the All-Time Quarterback on the 6th The Watch D.O.G.S. program has roots back to the grade football team! Another added benefit--steps! On National Center for Fathering and has been in place October 9, Watch D.O.G.S. Dad Mr. Peters reported, “As at SCA for over 10 years. The program was brought of 2 p.m., I have logged 14,169 steps!” to SCA by Carey Casey who has served on the White SCA currently has a Watch D.O.G. on site 2-3 days House Task Force on Fatherhood and Healthy Families each week with a goal of having someone every day. since 2009 and is the husband of Mrs. Casey who taught All Watch D.O.G.S. attend a short training session and at SCA for 12 years. Mr. and Mrs. Casey were called to pass a background check. If you or someone you know minister this year at Chicago Westside Christian School. is interested in participating in the Watch D.O.G.S. Even though the Casey’s are not at SCA, the legacy program, contact Andy Coats at [email protected]. they left with the Watch D.O.G.S. program remains. The Save the Date 8 a.m. SC A Saturday, March 24 Mark your calendars 5K now for the SCA 5K! Soaring Page 13 SOARING Parents SCA’s Legislative Impact Team by Haylee Walker, Social of their parents’ choice. Legislative Impact Team you to attend one of the Studies Teacher Unfortunately, those bills (LIT.) The LIT is made upcoming meetings – ast year in were not approved. up of SCA administration, Saturday, October 28 at Jefferson City, Currently, 29 states and faculty, and parents 8:30 a.m. and Saturday, Lbills were the District of Columbia who will work to build November 18, at 8:30 written and debated in have passed legislation relationships with state a.m. We welcome your the Missouri Legislature that allows parents access lawmakers with the goal involvement! We also ask that could impact private to funds that can be used of promoting legislation that you join us in praying school education. The toward a private or more that positively affects for God’s guidance, most important of these personalized education. educational choice. direction, and perfect will was Senate Bill 313 that Missouri’s 2018 legislative Monthly updates on as we work to provide would allow Educational session starts in January the efforts of the LIT will students access to excellent Savings Accounts (ESAs) and may include be included in the Soaring academics regardless of that would grant students educational choice bills. Newsletter. Or if you their zip code. who fit certain criteria That being said, Summit are interested in learning the ability to access tax Christian held the first more about the Legislative funds to attend the school meeting of the new Impact Team, we invite

A Note from the health office checks to make sure all live lice and lice eggs (nits) have been eliminated. Health Office • Please notify the office if your child has been As we enter cold and flu season, we have a few diagnosed as having a communicable illness; i.e., reminders for parents regarding school health policies. strep throat, chicken pox, influenza, hand-foot-and- mouth disease, etc. For your child’s protection and the protection of others, children should be kept home when they If a student complains of illness, the health office have any of the following symptoms: will: • Severe cold symptoms: chronic coughing, sore • Check the child’s temperature. If it is 100 degrees or throat, etc. more, the parent or emergency contact will be called • Temperature: a child must have a normal temperature to take the child home. without Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen for at least 24 • If the student has returned to the health office or hours prior to returning to school. is still not feeling well one hour after an original • Upset stomach, vomiting, abdominal pain, and complaint, the parent or emergency contact will be diarrhea: A child must be kept at home until there called to take the child home. has been neither vomiting nor diarrhea for at least 24 • If the child is vomiting and/or has diarrhea, hours. the parent or emergency contact will be called • Undiagnosed rash or skin lesions, red or discharging immediately. eyes, earache or swollen glands. A child must be kept Now is the time to get your flu shot. The flu home with any of these symptoms until diagnosed by vaccine is the best way to prevent the flu. a doctor and the student has been symptom free for at least 24 hours. Thank you for helping us stay healthy at SCA! • Head Lice: Students may not be readmitted to school Sheri Dean, RN and Noelle Rhyne, RN until appropriate treatment has been applied and the SCA Health Clerks 1500 SW Jefferson Lee’s Summit MO 64081

The mission of Summit Christian Academy is to inspire students to achieve their God-given potential through excellent academics and Christian training in a compassionate environment. Upcoming Events Oct 19-20 NO SCHOOL - Parent-Teacher Conf. Nov 20-24 NO SCHOOL - Thanksgiving Oct 23-27 International Thespian Society Food Drive Dec 7 Choir Christmas Concert 7 p.m. Oct 24 5th-6th Winter Sports Meeting 6 p.m. Dec 11 Secondary Strings Concert 7 p.m. 5th-6th Fall Sports Banquet 6:30 p.m. Dec 12 Board of Education Meeting 3:30 p.m. Oct 26 Board of Education Meeting 3:30 p.m. Dec 15 Third Grade Christmas Program 7 p.m. Oct 27 Spelling Bee Dec 19-21 Secondary Finals Oct 30 - Elementary Food Drive (Secondary Only-Early Release) Nov 3 International Education Week Dec 21 Elementary Sing-a-long 8:45 a.m. Nov 8 Secondary Sports Pictures EARLY RELEASE - Christmas Break Nov 9-10 Sound of Music 7 p.m. Dec 22- Nov 11 Sound of Music 2 & 7 p.m. Jan 3 NO SCHOOL - Christmas Break Nov 16 Early Education Program 9 a.m. Jan 4 Classes Resume Nov 17 Secondary Blue Crew Day Secondary Pep Rally First Grade Program 7 p.m.