PA PUBLICATIONC OFS PASADENAc CHRISTenIA N SCHOeOL

VOLUME 25 NUMBER 01 FALL 2013

Historic Endeavor Sighting Launches PCS Transitional Kindergarten Into Another Galaxy of Learning Curious students at Pasadena Christian Preschool watched history unfold last year as the Endeavor took its final flight over the city of Los Angeles. Eager to witness this historic event, our young students waited in anticipation until the spaceship made its way across the clear blue sky above the school. The awe inspiring experience sparked excitement and wonder in the Transitional Kindergarten class resulting in an extended study on outer space which included themed games that integrated phonics, math, reading, science and writing skills.

Leveraging this newly found interest, the teachers created an environment that would foster the essential “21st Century Skills” of critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity. From the beginning, the children were actively involved in the development of this project and created “thinking webs” to organize their ideas on how to integrate space into their daily curriculum. As a group, they made charts about what types of materials, books, games, fieldtrips, and experiences would increase their learning opportunities. Through a balance of play and direct learning experiences, this class gleaned academic skills that were akin to those of third and fourth graders!

From designing their own space station (complete with an impressive spacecraft), space suits, and a mission control station, to creating a paper maché model of the solar system, the students were immersed in “all things space.” Crafting indepen- dently sculpted space ships from recyclables, and making realistic moonscapes out of clay using real photos taken from the internet were also part of the fun. Additional activities included drawing planets, journal writing, authoring a short report on a self-selected planet and even measuring and graphing the flight patterns of paper airplanes.

Technology was a valuable resource as the children were able to view space launches over the course of history, including the recent launch of the Mars Curiosity. To culminate their studies, the students invited one of the key scientists who developed the Mars Curiosity Rover to speak to their class. Undoubtedly, the highlight was a field trip to see the Endeavour up-close at the California Science Center. To say this immersive learning experience was limited to our Transitional Kindergarten class would not be just. Our three-year-olds had an equally engaging study about trains, and the four-year olds extensively studied the animal kingdom.

Time and time again, we have witnessed first-hand that when children learn through play in a carefully planned learning environment, they are exposed to higher levels of socialization, communication, multi-faceted academic learning opportunities, language development, creativity, problem solving, and critical thinking. Through this type of learning experience, the students develop the focus, determination, independence, and cognitive skills needed to not only thrive in kindergarten, but later as scientists, CEO’s or professors. Funny enough, if you ask the children what they do in preschool, their answer will inevitably be, “I played.”

Designing a spacecraft Audrey Meleka, Elijah Redson, Benjamin & Samantha Drobis Anna and George Kefalas Space explorers getting ready Room 1 transitional kindergarten working Lorenzo Gonzales & Mrs Chelsea Northrop for take off on making their own space shuttle presenting his space report

Emily Smith & Keala Sunada playing a classical piece Casey Fuhr & Daniel Shintaku creating a Kandinsky influenced painting Preschool Welcomes New Teachers! Angel Nagatsuka is extremely excited to be joining the Pasadena Christian Preschool staff as Cultivating Self-Expression Through the Fine Arts Program (cont’d) Associate Teacher in the Transitional Kindergarten. It is not her first time on staff. PCS has been Mrs. Barbara Allen leads all of the choirs as they perform at Grandparents’ Day, the Annual Christmas Program, the part of Angel’s life for nearly 9 years. In 2011, Angel left Pasadena Christian Preschool to work Book Fair and the Spring Musical. Spring Musicals have included: Oliver, My Fair Lady, Annie, Oklahoma, Joseph’s in a school closer to home; however, she quickly realized that her heart was still at PCS. She Technicolor Dreamcoat, Music Man and Beauty and the Beast. Mrs. Allen’s educational background is in music, and originally came to PCS as an intern from Cal State L.A. Shortly after, she was promoted to role she has lifelong experience in teaching and developing a love of choral music in children. of Curriculum Specialist where she became a leader within the school and helped develop many of the current systems still in use at the preschool. Angel was awarded an M.A. in Those students desiring to learn how to play a musical instrument may participate in the PCS Instrumental Music Human Development from Pacific Oaks College and holds a B.A. in Child Development from Program. Under the direction of Dr. Gene Chung students can begin their in-school instruction at third grade on Cal State L.A. She is married with four children. She feels God brought her to this wonderful school and that He placed the string instruments, advancing to other instruments as they progress through the grades. As their skills develop, her in a position to care for children. She believes that caring for children is a huge responsibility…one that she does Dr. Chung provides the opportunity for students to participate in an orchestral setting at their skill level. He also not take lightly. She finds it an honor to be, once again, one of the many great representatives of the school. She hopes offers lessons before and after school where many kindergarten, first and second grade students begin learning to leave a lasting and loving impression that will carry on with each child for a lifetime. the fundamentals of an instrument or increasing their skills. Students perform in chapel, at the Christmas program and all participate in the annual Winter Concert. Dr. Chung holds advanced degrees in music education and has Joining the 2 year old class as Associate Teacher is Erin Gonzalez. Erin was born and raised in a deep desire to impart his love for God as well as the music of instruments. Pasadena and attended Pasadena City College where she earned her Certificate of Completion in the Child Development program. Erin has worked with elementary students since 2002, but The visual arts program reaches all students K-8. Elementary students are formally introduced to several art masters found her true passion in Early Childhood in 2006 when she began teaching preschool. She each year and learn about their lives and the media for which they are known. Junior high art electives are numerous, has a passion for teaching young children and loves helping them grow, learn and develop. including the popular Fashion Design and Photography classes. Supporting the academics, art teacher Heidi Hart Erin enjoys art and photography. Her favorite subjects are capturing God’s beauty through welcomes students into the art room for special projects (crossing curriculum), as well as, holiday and seasonal flowers and nature. She is excited to join the Pasadena Christian Preschool family. projects- and just plain impromptu art. If that’s not enough, students may sign up for additional art lessons at Big Yellow House after school. Classes include drawing, painting, crafts, seasonal projects, Mother's and Father's Day gift-making, and photography. Besides growing up in a multi-generational family of professional artists, Mrs. Hart’s M.A. specializes in Art Education. As an artist herself, she works to instill in the students a willingness to try a variety of media and open themselves up to artistic expression. Cultivating Self-Expression Through the Fine Arts Program Pasadena Christian School offers its students many opportunities to develop their creative skills and talents The preschool arts program is a developmentally appropriate curriculum, which provides for all areas of a child’s through a variety of visual and performing arts. Research has shown that participation in an arts program promotes development: physical, emotional, social and cognitive through an integrated approach. The art curriculum is long-term school success. Our fine arts program is multi-faceted, providing direct instruction in classroom, choral designed to promote a positive self-image, sensory awareness, growing independence and an eagerness to learn. and instrumental music, and the visual arts by teachers dedicated to and professionally prepared in each area. In our dedicated art studio the children experience working with various artistic methods, mediums, and techniques. Art teacher Mrs. Monica Bucknam, B.A. in Art with an emphasis in Graphic Design, is an artist who believes it Every student from kindergarten through sixth grade participates in weekly music classes where instruction is is as important to recognize the valuable emotional and developmental given in music theory, and the exploration of a large variety of music genres is integral. The new classroom growth that is fostered by creating visual art, as it is to appreciate the PCScene music instructor, John Nelson, has an educational background that supports his instruction. He also holds a aesthetic qualities of art. Each child is encouraged, through their art making Fall 2013, Volume 25, Number 1 PCScene is published twice each year for California State Single Subject Teaching Credential in Music. Mr. Nelson brings a love of music, and an ability process, to feel personal success, independence, and joy while learning parents, alumni, former parents and friends of: to inspire children toward that same appreciation through classroom instruction. about and making works of art. Monica feels blessed to instill the joy of PASADENA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL art in a Christian community. 1515 North Los Robles Avenue PCS also has three grade level choir programs in the elementary curriculum that offer students the opportunity to Pasadena, CA 91104 gain poise when performing in front of a group, and to learn the basic skills required for choral performance. Choir In reflection, the Fine Arts program at PCS provides all students an (626) 791-1214 Fax: (626) 791-1256 is for first through sixth graders, and although it is an elective beginning in third grade, a majority of them do join opportunity to find a means of expressing themselves beyond the www.pasadenachristian.org the choir. academic curriculum, and gain confidence in who they are so they Editing Team...... Larissa Althouse, Antoinette Andrews, can be worthy representatives of our Lord Jesus Christ wherever Danielle Maxwell, Luke Stiles, in the Oklahoma musicial. Pamela Madrid, Lucia Rosling Shaw & Betty St. Peter Iris Elliott from preschool class 3 creating a still life drawing. their gifts and talents may take them. Printing...... California Coast Color Layout...... Monica Bucknam, Narrative

2 PCScene Fall 2013 PCScene Fall 2013 3 Donors Make a Difference From the classroom to the playground, this is a very exciting time for PCS. God has blessed our school finances and placed us on solid ground, while stabilizing enrollment, however, we are not always able to spend money on significant “one time” projects. It is through fundraising and charitable contributions that we are able to bring these projects to fruition. We are grateful to all who support our students through fundraising efforts and to those who are able to make charitable contributions to PCS.

This past year, PCS was especially blessed by a generous gift of $230,000 from The Church of God at Pasadena. Our Board of Directors worked hard to develop a plan for its wise and prudent use. Suggestions for disbursement came from faculty, administration, the Board and parents. Much prayer and discussion went into making our decision on how the funds would Celebrating our Graduates Class of 2013 Thank you to our Annual Fund be applied. Back Row: Jarrett Carpenter, Christina Nessen, Somer Isaac, Natalie Benn, Jonathan Samuels, Emma Brown, Ashley Fowler Campaign Parent Donors! Ben Yoo, Brock Hieber, Jake Althouse, Nicholas Barseghian, Victoria Conlon, Jacob Bart, Isabella Gallo, Lexi Phillips, Keila Johnson The Board selected three broad areas at PCS in which Katy Coats Middle Row: Drew Sierra, Aren Ikoyan, Janessa Fong, Brittney Hwang, Luke Sheffer, Nolan Shwery, Erin Reeves A gift to the Annual Fund Campaign gives the flexibility to direct Jack Means, Noah Wilson, Tyriq Boykin, Jonah Daniels, Connor Knauss, Toby Chung, Olivia Baer, Aaron Trujillo, Sam Allen Font Row: resources to where funds are needed the most. Thank you to the to apply the funds. A natural recipient of these funds Mondain Sesay, Chris Kitahara, Henry Avetisian, Garet West, Maggie Yebremian, Ashley Park, Elise Navarro, Kyle Takata 2012-13 Annual Fund parent donors. Your gifts enhance the quality is the PCS endowment, which we are beginning to Sarah Rozario, Kaylor Irwin, Hannah Andriuzzo, Eric Martirossian, Kimberly Ajalat, Bailee Gonsal, Sophia Steele, Marina Lacanilao of the PCS education and help those who may not otherwise be build. One of the principal goals of the endowment is able to afford Christian education. to use its income for financial aid. By applying a large Graduation Awards God knits together each class at Pasadena Christian. They portion of the gift to the endowment, we can help an Valedictorian Service Awards Jonah Daniels become a multi-faceted family that grows and changes with Steven & Nancy Andriuzzo Carl Li & Karen Yang Jake Althouse Aaron Trujillo Somer Isaac each passing year. As a group, they often develop a personal- increasing number of families in the future. Secondly, Michael & Christine Antonovich Eve & Randy Mathews Bailee Gonsal Marina Lacanilao ity that characterizes their years at the school. The Class of academic needs are being addressed by acquiring Salutatorian Ashley Park 2013 were athletes, academics, artists, comedians, spiritual Bently & Suzzanne Au Jeffrey & Priscilla Nelson new curriculum books and materials. These needs are Aaron Trujillo Drew Sierra Scholar Athletes leaders and technology experts. They all had such wonderful Gary & Annie Barseghian Shahe Orphali & Elena Jorniak Keila Johnson Jake Althouse individual talents and yet what defined them as a group was Richard & Michelle Chino Dale & Ann Pearson primarily met by our ongoing budget, but now we can Citizenship Garet West their ability to accept one another, encourage each other and Bailee Gonsal Victoria Conlon James Chong & Jude Lee Paul Petrunia & close the gap and complete the updating of all materials. Kaylor Irwin build a camaraderie that shone till the last group hug Ted Coulter & Jean Sporleder-Coulter Nicole Shiller-Petrunia Finally, the Board decided to combine a portion of the Drew Sierra Sam Allen and spirited school cheer at graduation. We look forward Athletes Of Scott & Shawn Crawshaw Maggie Yebremian to seeing God work through these special young men and Eddie & Rida Rivera funds with our facilities fees and take care of some The Year Carey Doss & Laura Romero-Doss Jacob Bart women! "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Stanley Rozario & Connie Ung major campus upgrades. This summer, we replaced air Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to James Eshom & Brenda Hayakawa Marina Lacanilao Richard & Tresha San-Martin conditioning units for elementary grades, installed a give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 Damon & Sue Feldmeth Mark & Julie Scoon commercial WiFi system to provide complete campus Stephen & Stephanie Flagg Steve & Christine Selak Academic Awards High schools our graduates will be attending: coverage, added security options, and resurfaced our Juan & Jessica Gutierrez Lucia & David Shaw Bishop Amat Memorial High School Outstanding Achievement in Math: Aaron Trujillo Tony & Martel Hale Mark & Jenny Sheffer parking lot and playground. We can also look forward Crescenta Valley High School Outstanding Achievement in English: Lexi Phillips Ralph & Veronica Humphrey to remodeling and upgrading a number of our older Flintridge Preparatory High School Michael & Janice Shintaku Hrach & Vart Khudatyan bathrooms. Outstanding Achievement in Science: Jarrett Carpenter Immaculate Heart High School Brian & Michele Smatko Joe & Shari Kragelund Outstanding Achievement in History: Jake Althouse La Canada High School Lamont & Monica Smith Steve & Stephanie Lazarian Thank you to the former Church of God at Pasadena, Outstanding Achievement in Bible: Tori Conlon La Salle High School Neal & Jennifer St. Clair Kenneth Lee & Grace Pak Anonymous Donors and their recognition of our continued commitment to Outstanding Achievement in Art/Photography: Maranatha High School Ashley Fowler – Art • Olivia Baer & Erin Reeves – Photo Mayfield Senior School help raise the next generation of Christian leaders. We Rio Lindo Advent Academy are truly blessed to have another Christian institution Sacred Heart Academy realize and support our mission so wholeheartedly. San Marino High School St. Francis High School 4 PCScene Fall 2013 Westridge School PCScene Fall 2013 5

24th Annual Golf Tournament and Auction Contributors Thank You to our 24th Annual Alumni News 3-2-1 Talent Showcase Acting Studio Faith Gurley Maranatha High School Booster Club Rose Story Farm Golf Celebration Sponsors! Adrea Scheidler Photography Festival of the Arts of Laguna Beach Margot Bricker, Teacher Rosie Cruz, Preschool Staff Pasadena Christian School would like to express Rubio's Restaurant appreciation to the numerous event sponsors and Advanced Aesthetics Center- Flintridge Bookstore & Coffeehouse Maria's Italian Kitchen Betsy Klaasen Dykhouse ('95) Dr.George Sun Ruth Stark contributors for their support of the 24th Annual Flintridge Riding Club Marie Masakayan and Cynthia Davis Elliott (’71) Ajalat & Ajalat, LLP Friends of PCS Mark & Julie Scoon Salon Xia Golf Tournament & Dinner Auction hosted at recently discovered they had more in common Akiko Sakanashi Global Luggage Mark Bundy PCS Alum '72 San Diego Zoo Global Brookside on May 3. Guests were treated to a than their love of helping kids and families Altadena Hardware Mark Monreal Santa Anita Park performance by PCS instrumental music students Golf n Stuff, Norwalk through their work in the Children's Bureau of Amanda Carrillo Marston's Restaurant Scarlet Tea Room and helped raise over $78,000 for PCS. Of that Grand Slam Sports Center Southern California Foster Care and Adoption American Girl Matt & Janet Wilson Scott Green - GAO amount, $14,300 was earmarked for the various Green Street Restaurant department. They are also Pasadena Christian Amy & Tim Bennett Matt Denny's Ale House Restaurant Sean & Mindy Dwyer visual and performing arts programs. We would Groovin' On Music Alumni! As they shared about their time at the Andy Kau, DDS Megan and Michael Browne Sharon & Ken Fong also like to thank former parent and golf committee Gymnasti Kids, Inc. school, Cynthia noted that she attended PCS Angela & Steven Ross Halper Fine Art Merle Norman Cosmetics Sharp Seating Company member Scott Green, entertaining auctioneer during a time when racial tensions in America Ann Karen Day Spa Happy Trails Catering & Garden Café Michael & Christine Swanson Skirball Cultural Center and comedian Robert G. Lee, and the many were very high, and there wasn’t much racial diversity at the school. When Antoinette Andrews Heart & Sole Mijares Mexican Restaurant Specialty Services volunteers who together made it an enjoyable Applebee's Betsy began attending in 1986 PCS was much more diverse, which was Heavenly Treasures Mike & Christine Antonovich SpeedZone event! Aquarium of the Pacific Heidi Hart, Art Teacher Mixed Nuts - Anna Hartounian Starbucks @ Allen & Washington one of the things the Klaasen family loved about Pasadena Christian. Platinum Benefactor Armory Center for the Arts Heritage Square Museum Monica & James Bucknam Steve & Nancy Andriuzzo Cynthia was blessed to know her family "paved the way" for future families Armstrong Garden Centers Hodge Podge Mother Moo Creamery Steven & Julie Gray John & Kathy Prosser to feel excited and proud of the diversity at Pasadena Christian. Betsy Arnold's Hardware & Gift Hotel Cielo Rojo - Gisela Marin Museum of Contemporary Art Studio One Skin Care Gold Benefactors and Cynthia both expressed that Pasadena Christian prepared them to Art & Suzy Burkhard Nancy’s Bakery Summer Harrington be able and willing to cross racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic divides, In-N-Out Burger J.D. Gilmour & Co. Auntie Anne's Pretzel's InStyle Dental Naris Mardirosian Summer Kids Camp to care about the well-being of others, and to do important work in their Baker, Keener, & Nahra LLP Irene Chin National Tae Kwon Do Swanson Family CityWorks Management LLC ~ community. It is amazing how God brings people together! ~ Laurence Osborn iTennis NBC Universal Talianko Design Group, LLC Steve & Stephanie Lazarian Bay City Flower Company, Inc. Jackie Bailey, Elementary Principal Nestle Teppan Steak/Sushi Bar Silver Benefactors Pasadena Christian School congratulates Beckham Grill The Americana at Brand Jack's Cleaners New Moon Restaurant Dave & Mary Sue Scheidler Leah Tsehai Schwartz (’05) Belle’s Nest Nordstrom The Apple Cart Jacob Maarse Florist Anonymous Donors who graduated cum laude from Pepperdine Bently & Suzzanne Au Jacob's Engineering Group Nuccio's Nursery The Cheese Store of Pasadena University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Big 5 Sporting Goods Jason Berns Nyali Showroom - Gisela Marin The Cheesecake Factory Glendale Lunch Sponsor Sociology. The Schwartz family is “very grateful Biyoshi The Cheesecake Factory Pasadena Jen Lee, Xena Studio Salon Oba Sushi Izakaya Bolton & Co. ~ Ryan Fridborg for her PCS academic and spiritual foundation.” Bob's Big Boy Burbank The Children's Museum at La Habra Jennifer Hronek, Silpada Designs Olive Garden Italian Restaurant Grandpoint Bank Breakthru Fitness Jersey Mike's Subs, La Canada On Location Creations The Comedy & Magic Club Brenda Osborn Hair Stylist Jewel City Bowl P.M. Jacoy The Habit - La Canada Tom & Tina Emrey Brian & Michele Smatko Joel B. Henriod, DDS MHS Pacific Asia Museum The Hat Tee Sponsors Brookside Golf Club John & Kathy Prosser Pacific Resident Theater The Huntington Library, Bryan's Cleaners Botanical Gardens & Beacon Pointe Advisors ~ Graham Pierce John Anson Ford Theatres Paco's Mexican Restaurant Art Collections Robert A. Sue, DDS Build-A-Bear Workshop The Mele family is pleased to announce John Wells Golf Shop Pasadena Ice Skating Center The Ice House California Cactus Center Specialty Services the engagement of Bryan Mele (‘99) Julie & Greg Ajalat Pasadena Lighting, Inc. The Living Desert California Picture Framing Jump 'n Jammin Pasadena Sandwich Company Young Sang Cho & Nancy Choe to Christy Bell Casa del Rey Pasadena The Only Place in Town JW Marriott L.A. LIVE Pasadena Tournament of The Palm Restaurant Gary & Annie Barseghian both graduated from the University of Arizona Catherine Johnson Piano Studio Roses Association K-9 Klipping The Pasadena Playhouse and currently live in Tucson, AZ where they Chef Sonia Patticakes Event Sponsors KABC-TV The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles work at Ventana Medical Systems, a cancer China Eastern Airlines Pauline Tcharkhoutian, Teacher Dr. & Mrs. William Taormina Kate Spade Pasadena The Smokehouse Restaurant diagnostic company. Chloe Kahng PCS Alumni Association Kelly Etter Beilfuss-Pilates Tommy's World Famous Hamburgers Jostens Christina & Artin Gevorgian Pearls & Prayers Ken Orr, Jr. High Principal Monrovia Christopher & Deborah Hancock Peet’s Coffee & Tea Smart & Final Charitable Foundation Kids Klub Pasadena Tony & Martel Hale Cindie Ekstrand Pie 'N Burger PCS Alumni Association Kidspace Children's Museum Two Dragons Martial Arts Club Champion Gymnastics Planes of Fame Air Museum Michael Fields ('96) and Krikorian Premiere Theatres UCLA Athletic Dept. Marianne Frostig Center of College Launch Play it Again Sports DT Nguyen Fields ('95) Kristal Gallego, Teacher Ultrazone Laser Tag, Sherman Oaks Educational Therapy Contessa Italian Home Collection Playworks Toys were blessed with the addition of La Canada Flintridge Country Club Universal Studios Hollywood Courtyard by Marriott-Baldwin Park Rachel & Tri Fritz Jameson Brown Coffee Roasters Leorah Quynh to their family on Laguna Art Museum Vart Khudatyan Covina Center for Performing Arts Rancho Cucamonga Quakes January 26, 2013. Big brother Larry & Julie Feuerhelm Vic's Cleaners Rima Keshishian, Realtor Craig & Brenda Takata Rebecca Shukan Jewelry Asher is at the Preschool Larry & Mary Ann Bennett Villa Family Danita & Scott Maxwell RejuvaYou Fish King Seafood in Room 2. Linda Polwrek, CFP Von's Pavilions David & Lucia Shaw Richard & Kim Chinen Orphali Family Little Kuts Pasadena Warner Bros. Dish Los Angeles Zoo Richard Nixon Presidential Library & Museum Webster's Community Pharmacy Selak Entertainment, Inc. Keeping In Touch! Disneyland R Dollar King Los Gringos Locos Robert Cooper PcS Alum '56 Webster's Fine Stationery Eric & Barb Short Pasadena Christian School is thankful for each student who God has Dr. Dong Lee Lucha's Comfort Footwear Roclord Studio Webster's Liquor placed in our care. We are blessed as we watch them progress from Dr. Scott Beeve Lunch Salon Hole-in-One Sponsor Romancing the Bean WP 24 Restaurant Preschool, to Elementary and to Jr. High. We are doubly blessed to Dream Dinners Madison 101 Salon, Melissa Samuels Ronald Reagan Presidential Library Galpin Motors hear about their many accomplishments as they go through each Earl & Tavi Benjamin Mama's Gone Cacao Ronald W. Miller, DDS, Inc. season of life. If you are a PCS graduate, please take time to update us. El Portal Restaurant Maranatha High School A special thank you to all the Room Parents Ellen Silkscreening Ron's Volvo Service We would love to hear from you! [email protected] Rose Bowl Aquatics Center who were responsible for the classroom Equinox Fitness Club gifts and the parents who donated toward 6 PCScene Fall 2013 the class baskets. PCScene Fall 2013 7

Calling All Alumni!! Charity Begins at Home: PCS Inspires Early Giving Did you attend or graduate from PCS? Send us an update! We hear stories everyday about how life-long By Charlie Peters, The Outlook friendships started at PCS and how PCS shaped the hearts and future for many of our alums. Since the first class graduated in 1947, PCS alumni have been pursuing God’s calling for their lives all over the world as For nearly half of his life, philanthropist Jake Neely has meticulously missionaries, teachers, doctors, lawyers, accountants, scientists, artists, executives and entrepreneurs. To managed a charitable savings account, making weekly deposits but never withdrawals. Those closest to spread this good news and to connect our alumni, PCS is forming an Alumni Association…and you can be a him wondered when – if ever – he would empty that account and make good on the promise to help others. part of this exciting new community! To start things off, we are seeking individuals who would like to serve on Then, last month, inspiration struck. While listening to a lecture given by a Zimbabwean missionary about the alumni committee. The committee will serve to: the African water crisis, Neely instructed his money manager to cut a check that would drain the account. • Partner with PCS to plan alumni events And it’s worth mentioning: Jake Neely is 7 years old. The Pasadena Christian School Passport to Adventure • Invite alums to share their experiences and testimonies with current students camper gave $45 – or three year’s worth of 20-cent weekly deposits and holiday bonuses – to Generosity • Use social media to inform others about PCS news and events Water, a Sherman Oaks-based nonprofit organization that builds water wells in developing African nations Giving back has been a blessed tradition at PCS. You can be a part of this tradition and join and Haiti. In addition to educating children about different cultures, the Passport to Adventure program other alumni who are currently serving as faculty, staff, and board members. stresses philanthropy. According to Passport to Adventure coordinator Vikki Mele, about 90% of the 75 Steve Lazarian, Jr. ’60 – Board President campers began to bring in loose change a few weeks ago, hoping to make a big change. Terri (Quick) Deming ‘68 – Preschool Teacher Bill Kefalas ’88 – Lunch Service Robert Yamamoto ’75 – Board Advisor Sherri Deming-Elliott ‘90 – Preschool Teacher With ketchup smeared on his chin and a half-eaten hot dog precariously dangling from a wildly gesturing hand Mark Scoon ’77 – Board Member Jessica Lockridge ‘95 – Preschool Associate Teacher during a lunch last week, Neely explained the campers’ efforts to fix a bad situation. “When we learned about David Johnson ’78 – Board Advisor Beth (Orr) Curtis ‘97 – Jr. High English Teacher Zimbabwe, some people came and said that African people had very bad water. If they drank their dirty water, Leslie Johnson ‘81 – Jr. High Teacher/Cheer Coach Meagan (Drake) Gray ‘98 – Classroom Aide they would die or get very sick,” the soon-to-be second-grader said while he caught the hot dog in a free fall. Kerrianne Coe-Renner ‘83 – Jr. High Bible Teacher Cristina Watson ‘03 – Jr. High Teacher Without missing a beat, he continued, “So we’re trying to make a well. ”That water well will cost $6,500, & Student Council Leader & Sports Coach according to Rebecca Smith, Generosity Water campaign director, and the students’ total donation of $486 is Suzy (Salinas) Burkhard ’88 – PTF Co-President Nick Ryor ‘09 – Big Yellow House Staff a significant portion of that cost. The Passport to Adventure camp concluded on July 19, but the campers’ vision will carry on. “They just keep giving small amounts, but it’s amazing to watch the camp teach them about Come join them in serving your Alma Mater! As alumni, you are valuable to PCS and you can make a big generosity,” said Smith, who noted the funds would go toward the creation of a future well in a developing nation. difference in the lives of our current students. Whether you want to be on the alumni e-mail list, or are prayerfully considering a role on a committee, please contact [email protected]. Neely’s mother, Lisa Blanc, said her son receives $2 allowance via an iPhone app called iAllowance, which sends $1 to a savings account and allocates 80 cents for spending money. The remaining 20 cents gets deposited to an account that went untouched for longer than his parents expected. “I was surprised he wanted to drain the savings Unity Through Diversity account. He hears about charity at church every Sunday, and he hears about it from his dad’s work. The idea of Much like the famous multi-colored coat worn by the biblical hero Joseph, the community of families represented giving has come up plenty of times before, and he can be kind of tight-fisted,” Blanc said. “I think it’s that extra at PCS is comprised of a variety of cultures that bring a welcome diversity to our campus. As a matter of fact, our personal touch that’s been happening at summer school and that kind of teaching environment that just unlocked Strategic Planning Committee identified “Unity in Diversity” as one of the PCS Core Values. We strive to be a true it for Jake.” representation of the fullness and depth of God’s Kingdom on Earth. We were all created in God’s perfect image, regardless of race or color. The fact that PCS fully embraces these values has united us as a Christian family, The Passport to Adventure summer camp is primarily an educational program, as students take four classes per and teaches our students to take pride in their individual heritage while living without cultural bias. day in a range of subjects: reading and mathematics are required, and students can choose two electives from a list that includes scrapbooking, geography, art, crocheting, blogging and cooking. But each of the four weeks According to a report by The Council for American Private Education in 2010, "minority students make up has a geographical theme to remind students that the world is much bigger than Pasadena. This year’s weekly 27 percent of the student populations in religious schools, and 31 percent in other private/independent schools." themes included New York City, Mars and Amsterdam. When Harare, Zimbabwe was introduced, the lesson of Pasadena Christian fully embraces all cultures and currently boasts a 57% diversity rate. Not only can we count the importance of giving back was reinforced. many Asian and African-American families at PCS, but also Armenian and other Mid-Eastern ethnic groups, along with Hispanic families. And most of all, we also have many multi-ethnic children, representing 22 percent “[Philanthropy] is something that PCS kids are already used to: They know about giving,” said Mele, who noted of our student body. 2012 campers donated school supplies to students in India. “But I don’t think they expected it in summer school.” So how did PCS become so diverse? Betty St. Peter, our new Admissions and Marketing Director, Neely’s father, Michael Neely, is an infectious disease pediatrician who recently told Jake about a 1998 trip to explains “Our diversity is not reflective of anything we have done intentionally. It’s reflective of the families a cholera camp in Uganda. Blanc believes it was a combination of that story and the cultural teachings of the that the Lord has brought to us. We see it as an incredible gift.” summer program that inspired their son. When asked about diversity recently, Superintendent Steven Gray explained, “Prejudice and lack of tolerance “Whatever it was they were doing at Passport to Adventure, it really spoke to him. It clicked,” Blanc said. doesn’t start in junior high. According to the Anti Defamation League, prejudice starts as early as ages 3 and 4. “There was a personal connection for Jake.” Jake, who also attends Pasadena Christian School during the The fact that we are a diverse community, allows us to use it to grow our children, and in doing so, we become representatives of the Kingdom of God. It is important that we as a school provide adequate role models, regular school year, believes more personal connections may be in store for the future. He didn’t hesitate starting with our Board and staff. We are always looking for ways to use our diversity to strengthen our message when asked why he wanted to help the children in need of cleaner water. “Because it will make God happy,” to our students. If we don’t, diversity becomes a point of division, as opposed to unity.” Jake said matter-of-factly, before adding, “And if you help other people, maybe one day you’ll need help and then they’ll help you.” Ultimately, the United States will become a true blend of ethnic identities and cultures. We’re so proud to watch this phenomenon unfolding on our campus and beyond. And we will continue to celebrate the Originally published in the July 25 issue of the Pasadena Outlook Newspaper. Reprinted with permission. spectrum of colors in our community. Just like Joseph’s colorful coat.

8 PCScene Fall 2013 PCScene Fall 2013 9 Staff News New PCS Faculty/Staff

Bittersweet goodbyes Our new 6th Grade teacher, Laura John Nelson began teaching guitar The close of the 2013 school year brought bittersweet goodbyes and the promise of new adventures, Stauffer, is an alumni from The at Pasadena Christian last year, and as Pasadena Christian bid a fond farewell to three wonderful members of our staff. We wish them Master’s College in Santa Clarita, is now taking on an additional role as well in their retirement, and look forward to seeing them back on campus from time to time. CA where she earned a single classroom music instructor. John subject credential in English. Her has worked for over 40 years in the teaching focus at Pasadena music industry, both as a professional Betsy Avis joined Pasadena Christian School in 1987 as a classroom aide. During her Christian will be Language Arts musician and instructor. Among the 26 year tenure with PCS, Betsy was an invaluable classroom assistant to the 3rd grade and History. Laura believes many luminaries he has performed teachers. Aside from her classroom duties, Betsy was also a key player behind-the-scenes challenges cultivate a student’s with are Mary Rice Hopkins and while managing the teacher’s supply room and serving as the “go-to” person on campus. learning potential, therefore, she Los Angeles Philharmonic. John has also been privileged to Betsy will miss her PCS family, however she is looking forward to spending more time with has developed dynamic lessons perform at the Hollywood Bowl and Opryland. As a testament her 5 grandkids in Texas which include newborn twins! She also plans to make time for which will engage and inspire our scholars to excel. It’s her to his calling as a teacher, John led the music department at more reading, hiking, traveling and sleeping in. heart’s desire for our PCS students to grow as individuals Grace Community School in Sun Valley for 16 years, and has through new skills and increased academic knowledge, lectured at Master's Seminary and Pepperdine University. while developing good communication practices which He also taught at CalTech and Master's College, heading will enable them to effectively collaborate both in the their guitar program for ten years. At the heart of his music In September 2000, Dolores Hayes began working as a classroom aide for second grade. classroom and beyond. Laura is a member of Grace and teaching is his Christian faith, and commitment to She feels blessed to have served so many wonderful families, and to have been part of a Community Church where she serves on the high school the Lord. John lives in Glendale with his wife, Linda. The strong Christian community where her co-workers were more like family. Throughout her staff. During her free time she enjoys hiking, running, couple has three married daughters and eight grandchildren. 13 years with the school, Dolores also had the opportunity to lend her creative talents to reading and being involved in discussion groups. 14 spring productions including the “Wizard of OZ” and “Oklahoma”. As a gifted painter, In June 2013, Pasadena Christian creating the various sets was a labor of love which challenged and stretched her technical Dana Vredenburgh is serving as welcomed Betty Wang St. Peter, skills. For her it has always been about the students' performance, and the joy of watching our new third grade teacher. She who joined our staff as the new them grow through their theatrical experiences. Dolores will dearly miss the students, but holds a B.S. in Elementary Education Director of Admissions and looks forward to having more time to travel and work with her husband in his family business. and Masters of Education in Reading Marketing. Betty is a graduate of from Trevecca Nazarene University the USC Annenberg School for Kim Chinen joined the Development Department staff at Pasadena Christian in 1996 in Nashville, TN. Dana brings unique Communication & Journalism and when her twin daughters were in fifth grade. Among her first assignments was international experience to PCS brings an outstanding track record collaborating with Mary Ann Bennett on special events. Clearly recognized as a having spent the last 8 years teaching and wealth of experience to her valuable asset, the Board asked her to fill a newly created position, Admissions in both private and public schools current role. In the past, she Director, soon thereafter. She went on to serve PCS in this capacity for over a decade. including teaching at an ACSI school served as a marketing executive at Fox Broadcasting for Kim fondly says that one of the “occupational hazards” of an Admissions Director is in Kiev, Ukraine. She looks forward to working in a Christian over 21 years. She was also responsible for launching the that you become attached to the families you serve. Interacting with the families and community and spending time with people of all ages who marketing department at Southern California Public Radio. working alongside the wonderful office staff is what she will miss most about her job. are part of God's family. Dana considers herself an “open Most recently, she served as Director of Admissions and Kim counts it as a privilege to have served at PCS and is blessed by the integral book” who doesn’t shy away from questions while getting to Marketing for the Kid’s Klub Child Development Center in part Pasadena Christian has played in her family’s life. Kim retired from PCS to more fully support her husband, know others and building relationships. She enjoys reading, San Gabriel/Rosemead. In addition to Betty’s strong Rich, who will be the President of Pasadena Tournament of Roses ® starting mid-January 2014. Typically, the President gardening, traveling, and playing/learning violin and cello. professional experience, delightful personality and and spouse travel domestically and internationally throughout the year to visit the bands that will march in the Rose Parade ® Dana feels God has provided for her time and again in the servant’s heart, she has a deep love for the mission of along with other official visits. Kim looks forward to visiting new places and sharing Pasadena with the world. most surprising ways. She is so grateful He has brought her Christian education. She looks forward to advancing the to PCS, and is excited to be part of the Pasadena Christian ministry of Pasadena Christian School to our children, School family. Dana and her husband moved to Pasadena parents and to the broader community in the coming Welcome New Teachers! in March so that he may attend Fuller Seminary. The couple years. Betty and her husband Greg fellowship at Christian attends PazNaz church. Assembly with their son, Nicholas, a third grader at PCS. Jessica Evans is a graduate of Cal State Fullerton with a multi-subject and science teaching credential. For the last four years she taught middle school science at Triumph Charter Academy in Sylmar and If you’ve called or visited PCS lately, is joining the Pasadena Christian staff to helm the science curriculum for kindergarten through it is likely that you have met our new junior high. Jessica is excited to develop interesting lab experiences and instill a love of science receptionist Nancy Guyer. She and her through investigation and exploration. One of her favorite quotes is from Benjamin Franklin: “Tell me husband Eric joined the PCS family last and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” This philosophy of involving students year when they enrolled their two children in practical experiments to give depth to their scientific knowledge is part of her vision for the science – current second grader Evan and Kinder- curriculum at Pasadena Christian. Jessica and her husband, Chris, are both California natives, reside in gartener Elizabeth. In addition to greeting Arcadia and attend Glenkirk Church in Glendora. Jessica enjoys cooking, traveling and event planning. our guests and callers with her great smile, Nancy is helping to support our office staff while juggling daily interaction with parents and students needing assistance. Joining the staff as a full-time Spanish Teacher, Mrs. Maria Daugherty is very enthusiastic about PCS is blessed to be adding seven new classroom aides We are so blessed to have her on staff. helping PCS develop an excellent Spanish program in grades K-8. A native speaker of Spanish to our staff this year! From left to right: Connie Wall, from Guatemala, she studied Latin American Literature and Linguistics and earned her M.A. in Michelle Klop, Jennifer Vanneman, and Valerie DeVincenzo. Always happy to have PCS alum on Spanish at CSULB and her CA Single Subject Credential in Spanish. Maria is both excited and Not Pictured: Katina Childs, Alex Castro & Meagan Gray her staff, Big Yellow House Director honored to teach at Pasadena Christian School. She brings her passion and commitment to Suzie Allen welcomes Nick Ryor, educate life-long learners, strong Christians and productive leaders that apply the Word of God. PCS alum 2009

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IN THIS ISSUE

Historic Endeavor Sighting...... 1 2013 Graduating Class...... 4 & 5 Calling All Alumni...... 8 Unity Through Diversity...... 8 New Faculty & Staff...... 11

Philanthropist Jake Neely has meticulously managed a charitable savings account. PCS inspires early giving. See article on page 9.