Post Tagged with: "ACS"

Congratulations, Class of 2022!

ACS marked its 29th Commencement on June 10 with various speakers challenging the 20 students in the Class of 2022 to trust God’s plan for their lives, to be bold and courageous in their faith, and to seek to honor God in everything they say and do as they move on to the next chapter of their lives.

“It is my prayer that God would continue to guide and direct you as you walk into your future and that the Lord will fill you with faith, hope, love, and wisdom as you serve Him with the gifts and talents that He has given each of you,” said Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen, who welcomed the parents, faculty, staff, and friends to the ceremony held in the school gym that was also live-streamed on the ACS YouTube channel. Oblen then introduced 2015 alumnus Samuel Karabashian, who encouraged the graduates to be bold and speak up for what is right, even though you may not be in the majority.

Commencement keynote speaker Pastor Tony Montemurro of Calvary Chapel Gateway urged the graduates to exercise courage to do the right thing, drawing his message from chapter one in the book of Joshua, where God speaks wisdom and encouragement to help Joshua as he moved forward into a leadership role over the Israelites. “Like Joshua, you will be faced with difficult challenges ahead and will be tempted to turn away from God’s Truth,” Montemurro said. “That’s why you must resolve to let God’s Word be the sovereign authority over your life.” In a prayer of blessing over the graduates, Pastor Montemurro proclaimed — “May you become the next generation of Daniels and Esthers.”

Salutatorian Andres Cores

Salutatorian Andres Cores, 18, of Egg Harbor Township, noted that it took determination, perseverance, patience, hard work, and even sacrifice for he and his fellow classmates to make it to graduation day, and thanked ACS teachers and families for the important role that they played. “I have no doubt that every graduate here will find a way to succeed in their life, and I encourage you to pursue what is most dear to you, what you feel can make a difference.” Cores, who finished with a 4.18 GPA, will be attending Stockton University to major in physical therapy.

Valedictorian Elizabeth Alford

Valedictorian Elizabeth Alford, 18, of Egg Harbor Township, also thanked the teachers at ACS for the positive impact they had on each graduate. “Every teacher here has been such a blessing to all of our lives,” Alford said. “They have laughed with us, cried with us, prayed with us, and shaped who we are as children today.” Alford noted that she and her fellow classmates have “big dreams” to become future pro athletes, doctors, teachers, lawyers, engineers, and to have families of their own. “We want the best for our lives, but that begins when we start putting our faith and trust in God and relying on Him through anything that may come our way,” Alford said. Alford, who achieved a 4.20 GPA, will be attending Cedarville University in the fall to pursue a nursing degree.

Alford, and two other graduates, Caeli Barbour and Destiny Brewer, shared their musical talents during the program singing “The Commission.”  The three had been members of the High School Praise and Worship Team that led worship at weekly chapel.

Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen, Upper School Principal Meg McHale, and Board of Directors’ Chair Les Tomlinson participated in the presentation of the diplomas to the graduates. After receiving their diplomas, the graduates stepped out into the audience to present their parents and guardians with long stemmed roses as a gesture of gratitude.

As each graduate was introduced, McHale announced the various awards and scholarships that students had received. She noted that the Class of 2022 was collectively receiving over $405,000 in college scholarships, after being offered some $825,000 from the schools they applied to. Four graduates plan to serve in the U.S. military. Board Chair Les Tomlinson gave the benediction to close the program.

CLICK HERE to watch the Commencement ceremony on the ACS YouTube channel.

CLICK HERE for an online photo gallery of the Commencement ceremony on the ACS website. Photo credits: John Loreaux.

 

Blessing Ceremony Celebrates 8th Grade Class, With Prayer for their Future

ACS celebrated the accomplishments of forty-four 8th grade students, the largest 8th grade class in the school’s 51-year history, and prayed for God to guide and direct them as they begin a new chapter in high school at a “Blessing Ceremony” on Tuesday, June 14 in the school’s gymnasium. Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen welcomed and thanked the parents and families for choosing a Christian education founded and based on a Biblical worldview.

Three 8th graders — David O’Donnell, Sophia Costello, and Victoria Dade — led the pledges to the American flag, the Christian flag, and the Bible. Following prayer by Amelia D’Anna, the Valedictorian of the Class of 2022, Elizabeth Alford, gave a challenge to the 8th graders — to honor God in everything they do and to spend time in God’s Word to embolden and deepen their faith.

Two middle school teachers participated in the program to give parting words of advice. Math teacher George Dickson and social studies teacher Amy Parker (whose son, Elliott was also in the class) encouraged the students to seek God’s purpose for their lives and to let Him guide their steps as they move on to high school.

Upper School Principal Meg McHale and Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen presided over the presentation of scholarship and awards that recognized students for their accomplishments in academics, citizenship, community service, and displaying exemplary Christian character. Athletic Director Pam Hitchner also presented a number of students with fitness awards.

On behalf of the Parent Teacher Fellowship, PTF President Terry Vogel presented a devotional and a gift card to 10 students in the class who had attended ACS since kindergarten — Alexis Andujar, Angela Awad, Victoria Dade, Amelia D’Anna, Marley Odell, Caden Kim, Austin Salcedo, Graham Schlemo, Elijah Weiler, and Anyae Welch. Vogel said the gifts were a way of saying thank you to the families who had made a long-term commitment to Christian education. Vogel also announced the winners of the PTF Christian Service Scholarship, an essay-writing contest that focused on the question — what does Jesus say about serving others and what impact has serving others made on your life?  She noted that 15 students submitted very well-written essays and the PTF board was so impressed with every essay that they decided to give every student who participated a small gift.

 

After students received their awards and certificates of completion, members of the Middle School Worship team presented special music, performing “Different,” followed by the faculty and staff surrounding the students seated on the stage for a prayer of blessing. After remarks from Principal McHale, 8th grader Rowlee Murphy closed the program in prayer.

Following is a list of the special awards and scholarships that were presented to students in the 8th grade class:

Gabriella Goodwin, Highest Average GPA

Highest Overall GPA — Gabriella Goodwin
Academic Subject Awards for Highest Average — Gabriella Goodwin in Bible, Honors Language Arts, Integrated Science, Social Studies, and Honors Algebra 1; Benjamin Smith in CP Language Arts and Algebra 1; Sophia Costello and Jeriko Thomas in PE.
Highest Honors, earning a 3.8 or higher GPA — Justin Basso, Amelia D’Anna, Sonja Elliott, Caden Kim, Gabriella Goodwin, Lydia McCarthy, Rowlee Murphy, Adley Palermo, Elliot Parker, Austin Salcedo, Benjamin Smith, Jeriko Thomas, and Anyae Welsh
High Honors, earning a 3.5-3.79 GPA — Calvin Costello, Marley Odell, David O’Donnell, and Chloe Weyman
Citizenship Award (for service to others and to the school) — Adley Palermo and Elliot Parker
COMPASS Award (for consistently displaying the fruits of the Spirit in their personal and spiritual life) — Lydia McCarthy and Jeriko Thomas
Cougar Award (given to one boy and one girl who have demonstrated Christian character, leadership, and responsibility in athletics, who are returning to ACS for 9th grade) — Gianna Flynn and David O’Donnell. ACS will pay the full athletic fee for each student for one Varsity sport.
Parent-Teacher Fellowship Scholarship — Gabriella Goodwin, 1st place, $400 scholarship; Jeriko Thomas, 2nd place, $250 scholarship; Caden Kim and Benjamin Smith tied for third place, $100 scholarship. Scholarships will be applied to their 9th grade tuition.

CLICK HERE to see a photo gallery of the 2022 8th Grade Blessing Ceremony. Photo credit: John Loreaux.

 

 

 

New Beginnings – Kindergarten, Early Education Students Promoted at June Programs

Hundreds of family members, friends, faculty, and staff gathered to celebrate a great year of learning and growing at our Kindergarten Graduation on June 13 and our Early Education Promotion Program on June 14. The programs, filled with smiles and songs, allowed students to demonstrate their accomplishments and praise God for His faithfulness throughout the school year.

At the action-packed Kindergarten Graduation, the students delighted the audience with a series of songs that told the story of a day in the life of kindergarten.  Early Education Director and Elementary Principal Gail Alford then presided over the presentation of diplomas to 43 kindergarten students, who proudly posed with their white graduation caps.

Kindergarten teachers Julie Reilly and Ashley Vaccaro presented their students with special awards for academic achievement, Christian character, Bible verse memorization, math, are, technology and Spanish. “They’re ready for first grade,” said Early Education Director and Elementary Principal Gail Alford.

At the end of the program Alford introduced members of the VFW Cardiff Post 8098 of Egg Harbor Township who honored Vaccaro with a special plaque and a $100 check in recognition for her promotion of citizenship education in her classroom and in the school. Kindergartener Zackary Alobeidy gave the closing prayer.

At the lively Early Education Program, family members and friends smiled and clapped along as each of the classes, from Toddlers to PreK4, performed songs they had learned this past year and moved to the music — including Hop Little Bunnies, Happy and You Know It, God is For Me, Peace Like a River, and more.

There were lots of smiles and hugs as our PreK4 teachers, Teresa Bird and Jennifer Kelley, presented promotion certificates to their students. The program concluded with a message and prayer by George Myers, an ACS parent and Associate Pastor at Linwood Community Church.

CLICK HERE for the photo galleries on the ACS website of Kindergarten Graduation and the Early Education Promotion Program.

CLICK HERE to view the Kindergarten class on the ACS YouTube channel singing “God of Creation” during their graduation program.

 

 

 

Year-End Chapels Recognize Students for Academic Excellence, Christian Character, and More

Students with the highest academic averages this school year in the 6th, 7th, 9th, 10th, and 11th grades. From left: Paige Noble (11th), Evangelina Kim (10th), Sophia Johnson (9th), Sophia Capito (7th), and Gabe Capito (6th).

Year-end Awards Chapels on June 8 and 15 recognized students in grades 1-5 and in grades 6, 7, 9, 10, and 11 for their hard work and accomplishments in their academic subjects as well as in the areas of service, citizenship, and demonstrating Christ-like character. Both chapels were livestreamed and can be viewed on the ACS YouTube channel.

Students in the 1st-5th grades who achieved the Highest Honors on the Honor Roll during this school year.

Elementary Principal Gail Alford reflected in her chapel remarks on this year’s theme verse from Jeremiah 17:7-8 that focused on being deeply rooted in Christ and the truth in God’s Word.   “A tree’s roots are the foundation of the tree that allow the tree to grow tall and strong,” Alford said. “It is my hope that this year you have been poured into and that you have grown so when temptations come you will have the strong roots to stand firm and tall like a tree.”

At the Elementary Awards Chapel, the 5th Grade Worship Team opened the program with a time of worship, singing three songs, including “I Wanna Be a Tree” by Lee Martin, which was this year’s theme song.

The students were then recognized for making the Honor Roll and for significant achievement in music, art, physical fitness, Spanish, and technology. Each classroom teacher also recognized individual students for highest academic average, most improved, and exemplifying Christian character with their fellow classmates. As students rose to go up to the stage to receive their certificates, their fellow classmates clapped and gave them high-fives as they walked or ran down the aisle.

At the Awards Chapel for students in grades 6-7 and 9-11, six members of the Middle School Praise and Worship Team — Ashlee Alford, Ava Barberio, Annalena DiMaio, Abigail Kelley, Tara Mccorkle, and Isabella Santos — led the worship time singing “The Father’s House” by Cory Asbury and “New Wine” by Hillsong.

Following the time of worship, Upper School Principal Meg McHale, along with various Upper School teachers, recognized students for their various achievements, including the highest academic average in their grade and in individual subjects, the Presidential Fitness Awards, and the Citizenship and COMPASS Awards.

In her closing remarks, McHale urged the students to rely on the wisdom of God rather than their feelings to make godly choices this summer in everything they do. She also recommended that this students read the book of Proverbs, which has 31 chapters, as a daily devotional. “My prayer for you is that you will find time to read the Proverbs and think about them so you can make wise choices in your daily life this summer,” McHale said.

CLICK HERE to see photo galleries of the 1st-5th Grade Awards Chapel and the 6th, 7th, 9th-11th Grades Awards Chapel.

CLICK HERE to view both chapels on the ACS YouTube Channel.

 

High School, Middle School Students Receive Awards for Athletic Participation, Leadership, and Team Success

10th grader Evangelina Kim and 12th grader Aaron Glancey received the 2022 Billy Robinson Award for significant achievement, Christian testimony, and athletic ability.

High school and middle school students who played on an ACS sports team during the 2021-2022 school year received recognition for their participation, leadership, and athletic abilities at Athletic Awards Programs on June 3 and 6.

At the High School Athletics Awards event on June 1, it was a time to celebrate and reflect on a distinguished year of achievement as Athletic Director Pam Hitchner gave an overview of each team’s accomplishments.  In the fall sports season, the Varsity  Boys’ Soccer team finished in second place. They went 13-4-1 in the regular season and advanced to play in the Tri-State Christian Athletic Championship match for the first time since 2012.

In winter sports, the Varsity Boys’ Basketball Team won the Cairn University Tournament Title early in the season and then clinched the TSCAC Championship Title for the 3rd consecutive year. The Varsity Girls’ team finished in first place in the regular season, but lost in the championship game.

In the spring, the Varsity Girls’ Softball Team was undefeated in the regular season and won the TSCAC Championship Title; the Varsity Boys’ Baseball team finished in second place and lost in the championship game. Both the Varsity Girls’ Softball Coach Dara Kimmerley and the Varsity Boys’ Baseball Coach Gus Casey received Coach of the Year Awards. 10th grade shortstop Evangelina Kim received the conference MVP Award in softball.

The track program continued to grow this year.  The Cross Country Club, in its second year, competed and won twice in two 5K meets with King’s Christian School and added a new Homecoming 5K Run. A new spring track program was established and 44 middle school and high school students participated. The high school boys’ and girls’ track teams came in first place at the TSCAC Track Meet hosted at ACS on May 12.

The teams also competed at the Mid-Atlantic Christian School Association (MACSA) Invitational Track Meet at Messiah University on May 17 and made a very strong showing The high school boys placed 2nd and the high school girls placed 4th out of 20 Christian schools that participated from the tri-state region. Notably, 11th grader Cruz Lewis was recognized for his significant contributions to the track team and Hitchner awarded him with a scholarship to attend a one-week sports camp sponsored by the Fellowship of Christian Athletes at Kutztown University to receive special training in track.

Some of the dedicated Varsity coaches and supporters who were recognized during the Awards Program. From left: Terry Vogel, Kaylee Breunig, Drew Carney, Gus Casey, Morgan Gibson, Dara Kimmerley, and Joshua Clark.
Cole Lewis, Devin Tridente, and Angela Eggie received the Cougar Award, given to seniors who have demonstrated outstanding Christian character, leadership, responsibility, and commitment in the area of athletics.

A 26-member Cheer Team of middle school and high school students made school history, winning first place at The ONE Cheer and Dance Finals in April in Virginia Beach in the School Cheer Division, Junior High Intermediate Level and then went on to be named the Grand Champion in Virtual Finals in June. The ACS cheer team also won first place at the ImpACT Cheer Competition in Toms River in February, in the same division.

12th grader Aaron Glancey and 10th grader Evangelina Kim were chosen by the Athletic Department to be the recipients of the 2022 Billy Robinson Award that recognizes one high school boy and one high school girl for significant achievement, Christian testimony, and athletic ability. Angela Eggie, Cole Lewis, and Devin Tridente received the Cougar Award, which is given to seniors who have demonstrated outstanding Christian character, leadership, responsibility, and commitment in the area of athletics.

During the program, the head coaches of the various teams presented certificates and special awards to their players, including the Coach’s Award, Most Valuable Player, and Most Improved Player. The coaches participating in the program were: girls’ soccer — Carly Witherow; girls’ basketball — Kaylee Breunig and Dara Kimmerley; boys’ soccer — Tommy Tillis (assistant coach); boys’ basketball — Drew Carney; boys’ baseball — Gus Casey; girls’ softball — Dara Kimmerley; and cheer — Morgan Gibson (head coach), Kelly Flynn and Michelle Wheeler (assistant coaches).

The high school award recipients were:

  • Varsity Girls’ Soccer:  Paige Noble and Eden Wilson (MVP); Maddie DeNick (Coaches Award); Alicia O’Donnell (Unsung Hero Award)
  • Varsity Boys’ Soccer: Aaron Glancey (MVP); Noah Gibbs (Coaches Award); John Hannum (Most Improved)
  • Varsity Girls’ Basketball: Paige Noble (MVP); Evangelina Kim (Coaches Award); Maddie DeNick (Most Improved); Reyna Lewis (Unsung Hero Award)
  • JV Girls’ Basketball: Rebecca Kelley (Coaches Award)
  • Varsity Boys’ Basketball: Aaron Glancey (MVP); Devin Tridente (Game Changer Award); Charlie Costello (Most Improved)
  • JV Boys’ Basketball: Jayden Sanchez (MVP); Robby Barberio (Coaches Award); Judah Dawkins (Most Improved)
  • Softball: Evangelina Kim (MVP); Ava Nixon (Game Changer Award); Maddie DeNick (Slugger Award); Taylor Sutton (Coaches Award)
  • Baseball: John Hannum (MVP); James Papanikolaou (Coaches Award); Cruz Lewis (Most Improved)
  • Cheer: Rebecca DiMaio (Showmanship Award); Mikayla Tomlinson (Most Improved)

At the Middle School Athletic Awards program on June 6, students who participated in soccer, basketball, baseball, softball, track and cheer were recognized and honored. Athletic Director Pam Hitchner thanked the coaches for another outstanding year of competition in the Atlantic Cape Junior High League, of which ACS is a member. The middle school boys’ teams came in first place in soccer, basketball, and baseball and the middle school girls took first place in basketball and had winning records in soccer and softball.

In the spring, the Middle School boys’ and girls’ track teams  came in first place in the TSCAC Track Meet and at the MACSA Track Meet the middle school girls came in first place and the middle school boys placed 3rd. Notably, 8th grader Mikayla Cubbage took first place in the 200 meter, out of 36 runners, with a time of 29.69 seconds. The relay team of Amelia D’Anna, Mikayla Cubbage, Heather Milstead, and Marley Odell came in first in the 4 x 100 meter relay. Three ACS middle school girls also took 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in the long jump — Natalia Flores, Heather Milstead, and Amelia D’Anna, respectively.

During the Middle School program, Hitchner also thanked and recognized two new first-year coaches for their efforts — David O’Donnell (boys’ soccer) and Joshua Clark (boys’ basketball). The other head coaches of Middle School teams, who presented medals to their players and spoke about their accomplishments, were: girls’ soccer — Casey Hopwood (unable to attend, but her remarks were read by Hitchner); girls’ basketball — Grant Miller; softball — Mike Bohs; baseball — Charlie Costello; and cheer — Kelly Flynn and Michelle Wheeler (assistant coaches).  The athletes and family members enjoyed ice cream sundaes at a reception following the ceremony.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ACS Farmers Market Opens for Business on June 18; More Vendors Signing Up to Fill Summer Saturday Schedule

Our ACS Community Farmers Market opened for its first market date on Saturday, June 18 under sunny skies and a steady stream of visitors and well-wishers, including Egg Harbor Township Mayor Paul Hodson, who were eager to check out the first-ever summer long Farmers Market located in Egg Harbor Township.

“We are very grateful for the five vendors who came out to be the pioneers for this new event,” said market manager Arzum Sanchez.  “Every vendor did well today and said they are looking forward to coming back.”  Sanchez said there will be more than double the number of vendors at the next market date — this coming Saturday, June 25.  “We anticipate having more vendors at our market every week and we encourage our school families, friends, Township residents, and people across Atlantic County to come out to shop and enjoy the market,” Sanchez said.

Vendors can sign up at any time and can register for one market date or multiple dates up until August 27.  There is no market date on July 2.

The after-school Garden Club also expects to have a booth in July and August to sell organic produce grown in the school garden, including squash, tomatoes, cucumbers, and lettuce.

The vendors at Saturday’s market, who plan to be at upcoming market dates, were:  April Made for Kitten Aid; Busy Bees NJ in Cape May Courthouse; Root Cellar Tavern in Dorothy; Smith Poultry Farm in Williamstown, and Thirty-One Gifts.

Help us grow our ACS Farmers Market by signing up as a vendor and making plans to come and shop at the market.

CLICK HERE for more information and to register as a vendor.

Bike Day and Family Day — Fun for PreK Students, Families

Bike Day and Family Day were combined into one fun event this year for our Early Education students and their parents and guardians. Our preschool students got to bring their bicycles and tricycles to school on Friday, May 27 and spent the morning riding around our track and other areas, as well as enjoying other fun, outdoor activities on our campus.

May is National Bike Month and Bike Day has been a popular annual event for our PreK2, PreK3, and PreK4 students. Early Education Director Gail Alford said combining Bike Day and Family Day on the school campus made it easier for families and staff to organize a full schedule of activities for everyone to enjoy.

In addition to decorating and riding their bikes, the students and their families moved around the campus throughout the morning for water play, including a relay race, the Bounce House, drawing creative art on the concrete with colored chalk, doing the swings and bars at the playground, and enjoying snack and lunch together.

 

 

ACS Technology Teacher Hahn-Chaney Publishes Children’s Book on Machine Learning and Human Connection

A 9-year-old boy named Truman who gives up on making friends to build his own computer buddy is the central character in a new children’s picture book written and illustrated by ACS K-12 technology teacher Rhapsody Hahn-Chaney. Hahn-Chaney self-published “You Can’t Talk to My Friend, Cody” as a book that is now sold on Amazon. The book aims to teach children from five to nine years old that people are more important then computers and that coding is an amazing tool that should be shared with children around the world.

Hahn-Chaney was inspired to write the book while taking an online Python computer language class last summer with the New Jersey Institute of Technology. “Learning Python was difficult and as a study technique I pictured myself teaching Python to a student and it slowly evolved into a story,” Hahn-Chaney said. Along the way, she decided to turn her story into a 32-page picture book that she self-published through Kindle Direct Publishing. The book is available as an eBook or as a soft-cover book.

This past semester, Hahn-Chaney took the lessons she learned in self-publishing and shared them with the 11th and 12th grade students in her Computer Technology class. The students worked alone or in teams of two to write and illustrate their own children’s books and then self-published them to be available on Amazon as well.

Hahn-Chaney also read her book aloud to K-5 students during their computer classes in May. “The important lesson in my book is that computers can’t replace people,” Hahn-Chaney said. “Computers are a great tool, but they can’t replace the human connection and making friends with people who share our interests.” In the book, Truman spends more time with his computer buddy, who he names Cody, than with his classmates, but soon learns that he can build a friendship with a girl in his science class by sharing their common interest in computers and coding.

Hahn-Chaney will be teaching a one-week STEM Camp at ACS this summer that will focus on teaching students how to create a website. She plans to create a website for her new book, and use that project as a template to teach the students in her class how to build a website.  Hahn-Chaney also plans to work this summer on adding educational activities, like puzzles and mazes, to the back of her book to increase it to over 73 pages so it can be published as a hard-cover book in the future.

CLICK HERE to view or purchase Hahn-Chaney’s book on Amazon.

Class of 2022 Blessed by Special Scholarships from Local Church, Community Supporters, and School Staff

Eight senior boys receive scholarships from Calvary Chapel Gateway church for completing a church-sponsored mentoring program for young men.

A number of seniors in the Class of 2022 were blessed with special scholarships donated by a local church, supporters in the community, and school faculty and staff.  These scholarships were presented at Baccalaureate and at two other events and will go towards the students’ college or other educational or vocational expenses.

On May 21, Pastor Tony Montemurro of Calvary Chapel Gateway church presented $1,000 scholarships to eight senior boys who completed a mentoring program sponsored by the church. The program, called BASIC, focused on helping each young man develop Biblically-based character traits to prepare them to “Man-Up” as they transition into adult life as men of God.

The eight boys met with Pastor Montemurro twice a month on Tuesday mornings before school from October 2021 to April 2022 to receive lessons on a variety of topics, such as discipline, decision-making, stewardship, sacrifice, and humility.

“We viewed this course to be like basic training to equip these young men with God’s idea of manhood and to help them be able to defend against self-destructive ways,” Pastor Montemurro said. “I was honored to have had the time to share Biblical truths and life lessons with them and invest into their lives so they can be armed with wisdom and become solid and stable godly men.”

The recipients of this new scholarship, who completed all 12 sessions, were: Hyeonbin (Joseph) Choi, Hyeonjin (Isaac) Choi, Andres Cores, Joshua Guevara, Minjun (David) Kim, Cole Lewis, Joshua Schlundt, and Quinn Schrag.

Elizabeth Alford receives the 2022 Jonathan B. DeMario Memorial Science Award.

During chapel on May 26, senior Elizabeth Alford was presented with the 2022 Jonathan B. DeMario Memorial Science Award by Helen DeMario. The $1,000 award was established by John and Helen DeMario to preserve the memory of their son, Jonathan, and to reward students interested in pursuing a vocation in science. Jonathan DeMario was a physicist and environmental engineer whose life was cut short in 2012 at the age of 34 after a battle with cancer. Alford will be attending Cedarville University in the fall of 2022 to pursue a degree in nursing.

Elizabeth Alford and Destiny Brewer receive the Parent-Teacher Fellowship Christian Service Scholarship.

Several other scholarships were presented to seniors at Baccalaureate on June 7. Those scholarships and their recipients were:

  • The Academic Achievement Awards for the Valedictorian and Salutatorian, sponsored by ACS — Elizabeth Alford (valedictorian) and Andres Cores (Salutatorian)
  • The Mayor Paul Hodson Community Service Award, sponsored by Egg Harbor Township Mayor Hodson — Elizabeth Alford and Amber Ramos
  • The Garrett-Freeman Memorial Music and Art Scholarship, sponsored by alumni parent Barbara Freeman — Shermia Liggins, who will be pursuing a degree in photography at the Academy of Art University
  • The 5:14 Award, based on 1 Thessalonians 5:14, sponsored by ACS in memory of past ACS staff member Kim Ordile, who had an encouraging spirit — Caeli Barbour
  • The Senior Art Award, sponsored by ACS art teacher Sherry Mirakian — Joshua Guevara
  • The COMPASS Award, sponsored by ACS faculty and staff for a student seeking to pursue a career in education or Christian ministry — Caeli Barbour
  • The Egg Harbor Township Volunteer Fire Department’s Chief Anthony “Tony” Canale Scholarship in memory of Tony Canale — Elizabeth Alford
  • The American Red Cross Blood Drive Recruitment Award — Elizabeth Alford
  • The Parent-Teacher Fellowship Christian Service Scholarships — Destiny Brewer and Elizabeth Alford

 

 

Register Now for Sports, STEM, Fine Arts Summer Camps

Are you looking for a summer camp experience for your children that will be fun and help them develop their God-given abilities and talents? ACS is the place to be this summer.  We are offering eight specialized one- and two-week summer camps in July and August — in theater arts, STEM, basketball, gymnastics, soccer, and softball for students in grades K-12. Some of the talented and amazing teachers who taught your children this school year are leading the camps.

Space is limited, so please register early. A minimum of 5 students must be registered for a camp to be offered.

The cost of each camp ranges from $100 to $200 per camp.

Here are a few of the camps being offered:

  • Mini-Musical Camp for K-2nd grade students –its the first specialized camp on the Summer Schedule, starting on June 27, on Mondays and Fridays, and led by ACS music faculty Tim Rosie and Julie Zimmer.
  • Theater Arts Camp (Session 1) — for 3rd-6th grade students — begins on July 11, and will run for two weeks on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. ACS faculty member Genevieve Huff, who directed last fall’s production “Peter Pan JR,” will be leading the camp. Please register by June 30.
  • Theater Arts Camp (Session 2) — for 7th-12th grade students — begins on July 12 and runs for two weeks on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Please register by June 30.
  • STEM Camp — for 3rd-6th grade students — taught by ACS technology teacher Rhapsody Hahn-Chaney, runs from July 25-29.
  • Basketball Camp — for 5th-8th grade students — led by our Middle School Girls Basketball coach Grant Miller, runs from August 1-5.

Please check the Camp Schedule below for the details on other specialized summer sports camps — gymnastics, softball, and soccer — including dates, times, fees, and camp instructors.

CLICK HERE to register for one or more of these exciting and educational camps.

Any questions? Contact Event Coordinator Christian Delacruz at cdelacruz@acseht.org or call 609-653-1199, ext. 302.

 

Thank You for Supporting ACS Athletics at Texas Roadhouse Spirit Day in May

Thank you to our school families, staff, alumni, alumni parents, and friends of ACS who came out to enjoy a great meal and help raise funds for ACS Athletics at our May 26 Spirit Day at Texas Roadhouse in Egg Harbor Township.  ACS received 10% of the sales that evening, with $300 coming back to ACS. The Spirit Days held at Texas Roadhouse this school year raised close to $1,000 for ACS Athletics.

“We were so glad to be able to hold three Spirit Days this school year during each sports season and I loved seeing so many of our students and their families, along with our faculty, staff, coaches, and alumni be excited about coming out to support our athletic programs,” said Athletic Director Pam Hitchner.

Hitchner also thanked the Panetta family at the Texas Roadhouse restaurant on the Black Horse Pike in Egg Harbor Township for supporting ACS Athletics. Hitchner plans to hold more Spirit Days at Texas Roadhouse in the upcoming school year.

 

Servant’s Heart Award Recipients Recognized, Board Members Elected at May 16 ACS Association Annual Meeting

The 2022 Servant’s Heart Award recipients, from left, Katelin Klingert, Curtis Dull, Amanda Costello, and David Scheidegg.

Over 140 parents, faculty, and staff gathered on May 16 for the Annual Meeting of the Atlantic Christian School Association, listening to state of the school reports highlighting this year’s academic and financial progress, electing four members to the Board of Directors, and honoring four individuals with the Servant’s Heart Award.

Board Chair Les Tomlinson opened the meeting with a devotion from Ephesians 1:16-19, encouraging everyone to be faithful in prayer on behalf of the school, its students, and staff. “We want to ask God to give us a spirit of wisdom and revelation so that we are able to better prepare our youth for the future,” Tomlinson said. Those in attendance broke into small groups for a time of prayer.

Board member Chaz Wyckoff then announced and introduced the recipients of the school’s annual Servant’s Heart Award — Amanda Costello, Curtis Dull, Katelin Klingert Oglesby, and David Scheidegg.

Costello is a current parent and serves on the Parent-Teacher Fellowship Board. With several sons active in ACS athletics, Costello is always ready to help the teams and coaches, with transportation and other needs that arise. Dull served ACS for several years as a security guard and after retiring from that position returned to volunteer with the facilities staff wherever needed.

Oglesby, who has three children at ACS, has faithfully served in the school lunchroom for the past four years. Schiedegg, an alumni parent, is an engineer with SNS Engineering in Mays Landing and has provided advice and professional services to the school for over 10 years as various additions have been made to the campus, including the modular Annex Buildings and the outdoor basketball court.

A new video about ACS was then shown that focused on the spiritual development theme — Deeply Rooted — and featured interviews with current students and alumni explaining how their education at ACS has helped them develop and become deeply rooted in Christ and His Word.

Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen touched on highlights from the past school year, referencing a 2021-2022 Annual Report PowerPoint that was displayed on a screen to the attendees.  Other administrators also spoke on various developments in their particular areas, including Early Education Director and Elementary Principal Gail Alford, Athletic Director Pam Hitchner, and Upper School Principal Meg McHale. Business Administrator Kelly Flynn and Board Treasurer Chris Loeb spoke on the financial state of the school.

Oblen said plans are underway to relocate the Early Education Center and kindergarten classrooms to the Annex Buildings across the parking lot and that the main school school building in September would house students in the 1st to 12th grades. She praised God for the continued growth in the school’s enrollment that reached 669 students this year and is expected to exceed 700 next year, with three classes at each grade level from kindergarten to the 8th grade.

Kris Jacoby, chair of the Board’s Nominating Committee, announced the names of the four candidates running for the Board, selected out of some 20 who initially expressed an interest in serving. Each nominee came forward to give remarks before Association members participated in the election. The newly-elected members to the Board of Directors, who will oversee the governance and policies of the school, are: Giannine DiSciascio, Alisun Klingert, Andy MacPherson, and David (DJ) Schrag.  Their official term of service will begin on July 1.

Five Association members who are school parents were nominated to serve on the Board’s Nominating Committee representing the Association next year — Cindy Barberio, Charlie Costello, Kris Jacoby, Jason Kiefer, and Paul Vogel. Association members will be receiving an electronic ballot to select three representatives from this list of nominees.

In closing remarks, Board Chair Tomlinson recognized and thanked Board member Kris Jacoby, who was stepping down from the Board after nine years of service.  “Kris is going to be greatly missed and we are so grateful for her faithful service, particularly serving as the Board’s Secretary for a number of years,” Tomlinson said.

 

ACS Hosts Annual Thank-You Lunch for Volunteers, Staff

ACS volunteers recognized at the Thank-You lunch on June 13.

ACS recognized and thanked volunteers, faculty, and staff for their commitment and service over the past school year at our annual Thank-You Lunch on Monday, June 13 in the Multi-Purpose Room. Event Coordinator Christian Delacruz said that ACS was blessed with over 50 parents, grandparents, and friends in the community who gave generously of their time and talents as volunteers.

“Whenever we ask for help, you always respond so generously; the body of Christ is working actively together here,” Delacruz said, as he recognized each volunteer at the lunch and presented them with a potted plant as a thank-you gift. Services Coordinator Anne Block also recognized and thanked the volunteers who serve daily in the lunch room. “The cafeteria does not run without volunteers helping serve lunch,” Block said. “You’re dedicated, you show up on time, we thank you 100 times over.”

Some of the other volunteers who attended the luncheon served on the Parent Teacher Fellowship Board, sold concessions in the Cougar Den, helped train teachers in integrating technology into the curriculum, served on the Cougar Classic Golf Tournament Committee, and helped with the Race for Education and Harvest Day events.

The volunteers who were able to attend the luncheon are, from left: Greg Louderback, Terry Vogel, Kathleen Rex, Amanda Costello, Lisa Connolly, Polly Ellison, Alisun Klingert, Katelin Klingert, Melissa Reed, Margie Rosso, and Sandy Settles.

ACS also gave a warm send-off to five faculty members who are leaving ACS to pursue other endeavors.  Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen presented the departing employees with personalized ACS sweat-shirts and framed word art created out of words that fellow employees used to described their character and abilities.

Saying farewell to staff not returning to ACS next year.

Elementary Principal and Early Ed Center Director Gail Alford spoke with high praise for Early Education teacher Robin Genter, who is retiring after 12 years at ACS. “Robin was the Early Education Center Director before me and she has been a wise and kind mentor to me,” Alford said. “Everything she does is with such grace, joy, and dignity. ”

Alford also spoke with gratitude about the joyous approach to teaching displayed by 2nd grade teacher Abby Meza and 5th grade teacher Katie D’Aquilante. Meza is leaving ACS to be a new mom; her due date is August 27.  D’Aquilante is relocating to be with her family in Tennessee, where she plans to continue her career as a teacher. 5th grade teacher Nadya Lorick arrived at the end of the luncheon, but plans to stay connected to ACS as she takes a different teaching position in the area.

Upper School Principal Meg McHale asked for God’s blessing on faculty member Rebecca Stonelake as she leaves ACS after 9 years as a high school science teacher.  “She has been well-loved by her students and she has loved being in the classroom,” McHale said. “We will miss you and know that you will follow God’s direction as He leads you down a different path.”

The five departing employees are, from left to right: Early Education teacher Robin Genter; high school science teacher Rebecca Stonelake; 5th grade teacher Kaitlin D’Aquilante; 2nd grade teacher Abigail Meza; and 5th grade teacher Nadya Lorick.

ACS Cheer Team Named National Grand Champion in The ONE Finals School Cheer Division, Jr. High Intermediate Level

The ACS Cheer Team was recently named the National Grand Champion in The ONE Finals School Cheer Division, Junior High Intermediate Level. The exciting announcement, a first for any ACS cheer team in school history, was made on June 4.

A panel of judges chose the Grand Champions in several divisions and levels after holding a virtual round of competition where they reviewed video footage of the routines of the ACS Cheer Team and four other teams who had won in their category at regional competitions this spring. The ACS Cheer Team won first place in their category at THE ONE Cheer and Dance Finals held April 2-3 in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

“It was a whole new level of excitement, shock, and surprise when we heard Atlantic Christian School’s name announced as the winner,” said cheer team head coach Morgan Gibson, who watched the announcement while gathered with members of the cheer team and their parents. “Whether we had won or lost I was so proud of every middle school and high school student who participated this year and I can’t wait for the next season to begin.”

Gibson also said she was grateful to assistant coaches Kelly Flynn and Michelle Wheeler for the hundreds of hours they dedicated to making the team the best it could be and for building a sisterhood within the team.

Congratulations to the 26 members of the team, who will all receive championship jackets: Ashlee Alford, Isabell Alford, Ava Barberio, Annalena DiMaio, Rebecca DiMaio, April Eaves, Gianna Flynn, Mackenzie Flynn, Makenzie Fresh, Kylie Jackson, Abby Kelley, Rielly Kisielewski, Ava Lombardi, Autumn Loo, Kiera Loo, Ja’Niyah Martin, Jadelyn Maurer, Lydia McCarthy, Tara McCorkle, Heather Milstead, Sophia Puglisi, Chelsie Richards, Haven Sanchez, Isabella Santos, Makayla Tomlinson, and Anyae Welch. ACS will also receive a championship banner to hang in the school gym.

This year’s team did not have any students in 11th or 12th grade, which allowed the team to compete in the Junior High Intermediate Division, but Gibson expects the team to move up into the Varsity Division of competition next year.

Gibson also noted that they plan to hold tryouts for the Varsity competition team in the summer, likely in the last week of July. Details about the tryouts will be sent by email to school families and posted in the ACS Facebook Group “Stronger Together.” After the team is selected, the cheerleaders will practice once or twice a week starting in August. Gibson said she will also offer walk-on tryouts in September and October for students who newly enroll in the school.

 

Varsity Girls’ Softball Team Wins Championship Title, Varsity Boys’ Baseball Finishes in 2nd Place

The ACS Varsity Girls’ Softball Team won the Tri-State Christian Athletic Conference title on Saturday, May 28, defeating Pilgrim Academy 15-8 and finishing the season undefeated with a 12-0 record. The ACS Varsity Boys’ Baseball Team faced off against Pilgrim Academy in the title match and lost 6-3, finishing the season in 2nd place.

In the Championship Softball game, the Lady Cougars powered back from a 5-0 deficit in the 3rd inning to finish strong. Sophomore shortstop Evangelina Kim was on fire on offense, going 3 for 3 with a triple and a double. Senior outfielder Ang Eggie had two hits, including a double. Freshman pitcher Ava Nixon pitched a complete game with two strikeouts and she also singled.

After the victory, Kim was awarded the TSCAC Most Valuable Player award and head coach Dara Kimmerley, in her 8th year at the helm, received the TSCAC Coach of the Year Award. Junior 1st baseman Maddie DeNick, Kim, and freshman catcher Taylor Sutton were selected as first team TSCAC All-Stars. Nixon and junior 3rd baseman Paige Noble were named to the second team All-Stars.

“This was such a special and memorable season,” Kimmerley said. “Our pitcher and catcher were both freshmen and we had just one senior on the team, but everyone worked very hard and never gave up. This was a team effort and I’m so proud and thankful for each and every player.”

The Boys’ Varsity Baseball team came within striking distance of a win at the top of the 7th inning in their championship match against Pilgrim Academy.  The bases were loaded, with two outs, and sophomore pitcher John Hannum hit a long ball to centerfield, but it was caught, ending the rally.

In the conference awards ceremony, head coach Gus Casey received the TSCAC Coach of the Year Award and five ACS baseball players were named TSCAC All-Stars. The All-Stars, pictured below from left are: freshman outfielder James Papanikolaou (2nd team),  freshman shortstop/pitcher Charlie Costello (1st team), junior 3rd baseman Rob Barberio (2nd team), senior catcher Eric VonColln (1st team), and sophomore pitcher John Hannum (1st team).

The Lady Cougars also paid a special tribute to a young softball player named Parker Henderson in Yukon, Oklahoma who is battling leukemia. The team wore a #45 on their arms in support of Parker.  Thanks to a connection facilitated by catcher Taylor Sutton’s  parents, the Lady Cougars reached out to Parker during the season, sending her a care package, including a softball signed by the team, and letters of encouragement.  Photos of the team after the game, showing the players with the #45 on their arms, were sent to Parker as well.

We’re so proud of the hard work and exceptional effort from all our players throughout the season. Thank you to Varsity Baseball Head Coach Casey and Varsity Softball Head Coach Kimmerley for your dedication and commitment to excellence.

 

 

ACS Students Show Love and Appreciation to Grandparents on Special Day

Grandparents were the VIPS around campus on Friday, May 20 for Grandparent Appreciation Day. Some 500 grandparents got lots of smiles and hugs from their grandchildren as they visited with them in their classrooms, outdoors in a picnic area, and at a reception in the gym. Grandparents also attended a special chapel where our students had the opportunity to honor and thank their grandparents for their love, wisdom, and guidance.

Upper School Principal Meg McHale welcomed the grandparents and 11th grader Sam Glancey opened the chapel with prayer. Kindergarten students then took to the stage to sing “Happy Grandparents Day.”  McHale then introduced a new video on ACS entitled “Growing Lives Rooted in Christ,” that highlights this year’s spiritual development theme — Deeply Rooted.  The 5th Grade Worship Team and the Middle School Worship Team were also part of the lively program that had grandparents clapping and singing along.

Greg Louderback, an ACS grandparent and volunteer, was the featured chapel speaker at Grandparent Appreciation Day on May 20.

Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen introduced the chapel speaker, Greg Louderback, who has three grandchildren attending ACS — Ruby, James, and Lily Boyle. Oblen thanked him for volunteering at ACS for several years, helping teachers integrate technology into their classrooms and curriculum.

Louderback encouraged his fellow grandparents to stay active and involved in the lives of their grandchildren. “You play a critical role in shaping who they are and who they will become,” Louderback said. He also encouraged the grandparents to support ACS by regularly praying for the teachers who he said are focused on helping students know the truth in God’s Word. 5th grader Natalie Dickson closed the chapel program in prayer.

Thank you, grandparents, for the vital role you play in shaping the lives of our students.

CLICK HERE to view a photo gallery on our website from Grandparent Appreciation Day.

 

 

 

 

 

ACS Students’ Talents Shine in Spring Concerts, Art Show

The vocal, instrumental, and fine arts talents of ACS students were on display in May at two Spring Concerts and the Spring Art Show, delighting hundreds of family members and friends who attended. Students from kindergarten to the 3rd grade presented a festive Hawaiian beach party-themed concert on May 20, followed by a 4th-12th grade Band Concert on May 26. Concert-goers enjoyed viewing the Spring Art Show after both concerts, which was on display in the first floor school hallways.

Thank you to our dedicated faculty members who worked tirelessly this spring to prepare our students for these events — Tim Rosie, Director of Choral and Instrumental Music, Elementary Music Teacher Julie Zimmer, and ACS Art Teachers Sherry Mirakian and Patti Scardilli.

The K-3 concert featured the kindergarten classes singing two songs, the 3rd grade students performing “Hot Cross Buns” on recorders, and the 1st to 3rd grade students performing the “Hawaiian Beach Party” Cantata by Andy Beck and Brian Fisher.  A group of eight 3rd grade students served as narrators throughout the cantata, sharing information about the history, language, and culture of the Hawaiian people as they introduced various songs. The eight students were: Julia DiMaio, Caitlin Doucett, Kennedy Jackson, Lily Kimmerley, Amabella Markert, Allie Pineo, Alana Rosie, and Adrianna Wheeler.

The 4th-12th grade Band Concert featured instrumental selections performed by the 4th Grade Band, the 5th Grade Band, the combined 4th and 5th Grade Bands, the Middle School Band, and High School Instrumental Ensemble. The concert concluded with the Middle School Band and the High School Instrumental Ensemble jointly presenting four selections, including Amazing Grace and the theme songs from the movies “Jurassic Park” and the “Avengers.”

Hundreds of student art projects were on display for the Spring Art Show that showcased the students’ talents with a variety of materials using different art techniques. One bulletin board featured 25 different pieces of art created by 16 high school students that were entered in the Atlantic County Teen Arts Festival on May 11 in Hammonton. The artwork included acrylic paintings, pencil drawings of Bibles, weavings with yarn and wood beads, zentangle drawings with pen, pencil, and ink, photography, and a digital ibis painting. The 16 students whose artwork was selected by art teacher Sherry Mirakian to compete in the Festival, were: Kaia Barbour, Rebecca DiMaio, Aine Dorsey, Lauren Einwechter, Richie Jackson, Sophia Johnson, Joshua Kinch, Dayeon (Dee) Jang, Mia Liggins, Autumn Loo, Ryleigh Martin, Jadelyn Maurer, Ava Nixon, Alex Stein, Makayla Tomlinson, and Grace Wroniuk.

 

 

 

Varsity Baseball, Softball Teams Heading into TSCAC Championship Games this Saturday; Seniors Honored at May 19 Home Games

The undefeated ACS Varsity Girls’ Softball team and 2nd-seeded ACS Varsity Boys’ Baseball team have both advanced to play in the Tri-State Christian Athletic Conference (TSCAC) Championship Games this Saturday, May 28. ACS is hosting the TSCAC Finals so come out and cheer for our Cougars! The ACS Varsity Girls, under head coach Dara Kimmerley, will play the Pilgrim Academy Varsity Girls at 1 p.m. The Varsity Boys, under head coach Gus Casey, will play the Pilgrim Academy Boys at 3 p.m.

To advance to the championship round, the ACS Softball team played King’s Christian School on Tuesday in the TSCAC semi-final playoffs and won 17-2. On the same day, the ACS Baseball team beat Calvary Academy 9-1. The prior week, senior players on both teams and their parents were recognized and honored in a ceremony on May 19 prior to home games against Pilgrim Academy.

Both teams went on to win their games.  We look forward to seeing our seniors and the contributions they will make in the championship games on Saturday — Angela Eggie, outfielder on our softball team, and outfielder Cole Lewis, outfielder Quinn Schrag, outfielder Josh Schlundt, and catcher Eric VonCollon on our baseball team.

 

ACS Instrumental Ensemble Receives High Marks at Atlantic County Teen Arts Festival, Will Compete June 2 at State Level

The ACS Instrumental Ensemble received high marks at the May 11 Atlantic County Teens Arts Festival in Hammonton and is moving on to compete in the New Jersey Teen Arts Festival in Edison on June 2.  The 4-member ensemble performed “The Merry-Go-Round of Life” by Joe Hisaishi in the small instrumental group category at the May 11 festival, competing against close to 20 other groups from high schools across Atlantic County.

“We are very pleased that the panel of judges selected our ensemble as one of the top performing groups at the May county-wide Festival and we are looking forward to competing at the state level,” said Tim Rosie, ACS Director of Choral and Instrumental Music.  “This is the first time that an instrumental group from ACS has competed in the Festival and I am happy to see these students be recognized for their talents and hard work.”

The four members of the ensemble are 12th grader Isaac Choi (violin), 12th grader Joseph Choi (violin), 8th grader Rowlee Murphy (cello), and 12th grader Haylee Whedbee.

Rosie said the ensemble will perform the same selection at the June 2 state festival.  ACS families and friends who attended the ACS Spring Band Concert on May 26 also had the opportunity to see the ensemble perform and one of the pieces they performed was “The Merry-Go-Round of Life.”

CLICK HERE to view a video excerpt of the ensemble’s performance at the Festival.

 

2022 ACS Yearbook Now on Sale; Faculty Member Dave Genter Honored With Yearbook Dedication

The 2022 ACS Yearbook, with its cover design created by 12th grader Amber Ramos, is now on sale and promotes this year’s Spiritual Development Theme — “Deeply Rooted.” The new yearbook was unveiled at the Upper School Chapel on Thursday, May 26 and is dedicated to faculty member Dave Genter. Yearbook advisor and faculty member Tori Flath congratulated Genter and presented him with his own copy of the yearbook.

The yearbook is available for purchase online.  The  price of the yearbook is $45 for K-11th grade families and $40 for seniors in the Class of 2022, with a limit of one discounted yearbook per senior. The yearbook is available for purchase online. CLICK HERE to place your order.

Quantities are limited, so don’t miss your chance to get a copy of this great keepsake! Seniors will receive their yearbooks at Baccalaureate. Yearbooks will be distributed to K-11 students on Monday, June 13. Please contact Flath with any questions at tflath@acseht.org.

The 2022 ACS Yearbook features a cover design created by 12th grader Amber Ramos.

During Thursday’s chapel, Flath read from the dedication page in the yearbook, which described Genter’s character qualities and his heart for the Lord and his students.  The dedication reads as follows:

“Mr. Dave Genter began working at ACS in 2012. Many students know him as the man with the animals (and snacks) in his classroom.  Students young and old flock to his room to see his amazing animals, from his tortoise to his axolotls. His dedication to ACS is evident in the many ways he has served the school. Mr. Genter has taught both science and Bible classes. Aside from teaching, Mr. Genter is also head of the Student Counil and High School Missions Club as well as being a Class Advisor.

“Mr. Genter shows what it means to be ‘Deeply Rooted.’ While he knows how to be funny and have a great time, he also knows when it is time to take a serious look at one’s faith. He is a compassionate ear and a voice of wisdom and reason to those in need. He cares deeply about every one of his students and their personal walks with the Lord, finding no greater joy than when he hears a student has taken their faith on as their own and accepted Christ as Lord and Savior.

“It is with great pride and pleasure that we dedicate the 2022 Atlantic Christian School Yearbook to Mr. Dave Genter!”

ACS Middle School, High School Athletes Sweep TSCAC Track Meet

Congratulations to the 70 ACS middle school and high school students who competed in the Tri-State Christian Athletic Conference Track Meet on Thursday, May 12 and earned medals and top team honors. All four ACS teams — the High School Boys’ and Girls’ teams and the Middle School Boys’ and Girls’ teams — finished in first place with the highest number of points earned among the teams from six other regional Christian schools who participated.

The day-long event, held under cloudy skies, saw ACS receive 64 first place medals — the Middle School Girls earned 15, the Middle School Boys earned 14, the High School Girls earned 20, and the High School Boys earned 15. 12th grader Caeli Barbour set a school record in the high school girls’ 3200 meter, with a time of 14:17.

ACS relay teams won 9 out the 12 relay races. In field events, ACS athletes also excelled. At the middle school level, Natalia Flores won first place in the long jump, reaching 13 feet, 4 inches, and Skyler Shivers won first place in the shot put, throwing the ball 25 feet. At the high school level, 12th grader Destiny Brewer won first place in the long jump, with 14 feet, 3 inches, and 11th grader Evan Pearson won first place in the shot put, throwing the ball 35 feet, 2 inches.

“I’m very grateful for the outstanding efforts of the entire ACS family that all worked together, using their various gifts and talents, to make this track meet a success,” said Athletic Director Pam Hitchner, who organized the meet. This is the 15th year that ACS has hosted the Tri-State Christian Athletic Conference track at its campus.  The other schools participating in the meet were: Abundant Life Academy, Ambassador Christian Academy, Cumberland Christian School, Gloucester County Christian School, King’s Christian School, and The Pilgrim Academy.

Several middle school and high school athletes also made significant contributions to their teams. 7th grader Kiara Loo scored 9 points for her Middle School Girls’ team and 8th grader Mikayla Cubbage and 7th grader Natalia Flores each scored 8 points. For the Middle School Boys’ team, 7th grader Micah D’Anna scored 14 points and 8th grader Erik Preisner scored 8 points. On the High School Girls’ team, 11th grader Reyna Lewis led the team with 15 points, 12th grader Caeli Barbour scored 11 points, and 11th grader Eden Wilson scored 9 points.  For the High School Boys, 9th grader Jayden Sanchez scored 11 points, 12th graders Aaron Glancey and Cole Lewis each scored 10 points, and 11th grader Cruz Lewis scored 9 points. Collectively, the three Lewis siblings scored 34 points over the course of the meet.

A large volunteer team of students, alumni, and parents helped manage the 20 track and field events in the meet, serving as timers, working at the scorer’s table, and cooking and serving at the concessions stand. In particular, Hitchner recognized and thanked several individuals for their efforts: PE teacher Kaylee Breunig, who served as Hitchner’s assistant;  alumni parent Larry Martin, who oversaw the scorer’s table; substitute teacher Mike Bohs, who served as the official starter of all the races; Jeff Wolf, who served as the “Clerk of Course.” and PTF President Terry Vogel, who headed up the concessions stand that raised funds to support the ACS Athletic Department.

Eight New Raised Beds Added to School Garden Using Grant Funds, Students in Garden Club Prep Beds, Begin Planting

The ACS School Garden has expanded this spring with the addition of eight new raised beds, bringing the total to 16 beds, and students in the after-school Garden Club have been busy prepping the beds and planting vegetables.

The Texas-based Whole Kids Foundation provided a $3,000 grant to ACS last fall to expand its garden program, which included adding more planting beds to the school garden.  Garden Club Coordinator Eric Tardif worked with ACS facilities staff, who built the eight new beds in late March. On April 7, a donation of 10 cubic yards of eco-soil arrived from the Atlantic County Utilities Authority, enough to fill all 16 beds in the garden to kick-start the planting season.

“We are very grateful to the ACUA and the Whole Kids Foundation for showing their support for our school garden program,” said Tardif, who is joined by 1st grade teacher Ashley Brossman and 4th grade teacher Rebecca Jackson in overseeing the after-school Garden Club. Twenty-four students in the 1st-5th grades are participating in the Garden Club, which began meeting on Tuesdays starting on April 12 and will meet through June 7.

The students have weeded the eight existing garden beds and filled all the beds with the new soil.  The students have planted a wide variety of vegetables including beets, cucumbers (pickling and lemon), lettuce, summer squash, tomatoes (beefsteak, green zebra, and cherry), and zucchini. The students have also planted cucumbers in 20 large pots lined up along the fence that surrounds the school garden and greenhouse. “We are looking forward to seeing the vines of these cucumbers attach and climb up to cover the fence,” Tardif said.

Tardif said activity in the school garden will continue through the summer with participation by students in the summer Cougar Camp program.  “Our Cougar Camp students will be tending to the garden and picking the vegetables, which will be ready to harvest in 45 to 60 days,” Tardif said. ” We’re also excited about the opportunity to sell our vegetables at the new Community Farmers Market that ACS will be holding on its campus this summer.” Proceeds from the sale of the produce will go to support the ACS garden and greenhouse program.

 

 

Students Learn About Making Healthy Snack Choices at AtlantiCare May 4 Presentation

Apple slices, grapes, dark chocolate, and a hard-boiled egg – these were just a few examples of healthy snacks that ACS elementary and middle school students learned about during a presentation May 4 by a wellness specialist from the AtlantiCare Healthy Children, Healthy Schools program.

Some 80 students in the 2nd, 3rd, and 8th grades and their teachers attended the presentation by AtlantiCare’s Missy Stoeckle to better understand the importance of choosing healthy snacks as part of their daily diet. Stoeckle described the best snacks to eat when students are involved in different activities, such as hiking, relaxing at the beach, going to the movies, or playing a game of soccer. “You need to be sure you have the fuel you need so you don’t crash when you need energy, like when you’re playing a game of soccer,” Stoeckle said. She advised that dark chocolate packed in a backpack on a hike is healthier than milk chocolate and to limit the butter when you snack on popcorn at the movies.

After her 30-minute presentation held in the Multi-Purpose Room, Stoeckle met for an extended Q&A session with the 8th grade students and responded to a variety of health and wellness questions. One student asked – how many meals should you eat in a day? Stoeckle recommended eating 5 times a day — three meals and two snack periods in between.

Another 8th grader asked if there was one brand of water that was better than another. Stoeckle did not recommend one type of water over another, but instead focused on the amount of water a person should drink daily – recommending a gallon a day. The final question another student asked was – Are protein shakes good for you? — and Stoeckle recommended carefully reading the ingredients in a protein shake to make sure that the first ingredient is not sugar or a substance you do not recognize.

Stoeckle concluded her presentation by offering the 8th grade students the opportunity to reach out to her individually by email with any additional health and wellness questions they might have.

PTF Pop-Up Coffee-Tea Breakfast Bar Blesses ACS Employees

ACS faculty and staff were treated to a surprise pop-up Coffee-Tea Breakfast Bar on Wednesday, May 18, courtesy of our Parent-Teacher Fellowship. This was the third surprise pop-up coffee-tea bar hosted by the PTF this year and they plan to continue doing it in next school year.

As a teacher approached the serving table set up in the first floor Teacher Work Room, she asked — “What is the occasion?” One of the PTF parents replied — “Just because we love you.”

Thank you to the PTF for showing your love and appreciation and blessing our dedicated teachers and staff. Shout out to PTF members Katie Boyle, Erin Gibbs, Patty Rosie, and Terry Vogel for serving at this pop-up and mixing up some delicious hot and iced coffee, hot chai tea latte, hot chocolate and more.

Classroom Cameo — 2nd Graders Visit Camden Adventure Aquarium to Explore Ocean Life

Have you ever touched a shark? Our ACS 2nd grade students had the opportunity to do just that during their May 12 field trip to the Adventure Aquarium in Camden, New Jersey.  Visiting the aquarium was an exciting way to conclude their recent science unit where they studied the ocean and the creatures that live in it.

The some 50 students were accompanied on the trip by their teachers — Kristen Hockenberry, Abby Meza, and Amy Williams — and several parent chaperones. Not only did the group visit the aquarium’s shark touch tank, but they also walked through a shark tunnel where they could watch the sharks swimming beside them and above them. The aquarium has the largest collection of sharks in the Northeast.  and some 15,000 aquatic animals spread across its many exhibits.

The students also visited other engaging exhibits of penguins, turtles, and jellyfish, and even saw hippos swimming underwater in a large tank. The Camden aquarium is the only aquarium in the world to exhibit hippos.