We’re thankful to welcome our students back for another school year at Atlantic Christian School! The excitement began at our Back-to-School Open House and continued into a joyful First Day of School. From warm greetings to new beginnings, our campus was filled with happy voices, bright smiles, and the promise of all that’s ahead.
We pray that every student will grow in knowledge and in faith this year, shining God’s light in all they do. Thank you, families, for being such an important part of our ACS community.
Back-to-School Open House
EE–12 students and their families met teachers, found classrooms, and connected with friends—old and new.
First Day of School
Students arrived with excitement as teachers welcomed them and hallways filled with laughter and energy.
ACS is excited to announce that we will be hosting ACSI’s Flourish Deeper professional development conference on Friday, November 7, 2025, right here on our campus in Egg Harbor Township, NJ.
This one-day training is designed for Christian school teachers and leaders who want to grow deeper in their calling and develop thriving, Christ-centered classrooms. The day will be filled with encouragement, practical tools, and opportunities to connect with fellow educators.
We encourage teachers and school leaders from across the region to attend this valuable day of learning and inspiration. 👉 Learn more and register at acsi.org/flourish-deeper
On Friday, May 23, 2025, Atlantic Christian School hosted its 4th Annual Early Education Family and Bike Day, bringing together parents and family members for a day of fun and community. The event was filled with laughter and excitement as preschoolers rode their bikes, tricycles, and scooters while participating in a variety of engaging group activities.
Throughout the morning, families enjoyed a range of activities, including a big blanket toss, team relay, water games, time in the bounce house, and fun on the playground.
The event concluded with lunch providing a perfect ending to a wonderful day of fun.
Join the ACS Missions Team for Baseball Night at the Philadelphia Phillies vs. Seattle Mariners game on Monday, August 18, at Citizens Bank Park. The game starts at 6:40 PM. Please purchase your tickets by August 8 at https://bit.ly/2025baseballnight. A limited number of tickets are available, so please purchase early. Proceeds benefit the ACS Missions Team.
We’re so grateful to everyone who came out to Applebee’s for Spirit Night last night and supported ACS Athletics. Thank you for cheering us on—both on and off the field!
Thank you to all the parents, faculty, and staff who attended the annual ACS Association Meeting on Monday, May 19. Our ACS Administrators presented educational, financial, and facilities updates and plans.
We then heard from all of the Board nominees as they shared their testimonies and desire to serve the ACS Community.
Congratulations to Liam Hungate, David Juliano, Grant Kelly, and Ray Picking for their election to the Board of Directors, and to Alisun Klingert Richards for her re-election.
Thank you, ACS family! We are grateful for your continued support and dedication to our school community.
On May 15, Atlantic Christian School came alive with music and creativity during the annual Spring Concert and Art Show.
The Spring Concert featured a variety of musical performances by our 4th and 5th grade students, the Middle School Choir, and several upper school students. Guests were treated to a delightful program that included ukulele music, violin performances, and beautiful vocal selections. Special thanks to Mrs. Liz Henigan for organizing and directing this wonderful event!
In addition to the concert, guests also enjoyed the Spring Art Show, which showcased an impressive collection of student artwork along the first-floor hallway. The exhibit included a wide range of artistic styles and media, such as paintings, sculptures, collages, scratch art, origami, and more—all created by students in grades 1 through 12. The show was curated by Mrs. Genevieve Huff, who did a fantastic job highlighting our students’ creativity and hard work.
While the Art Show was open for families to view during the concert, the artwork will remain on display in the school through the end of the year for students and staff to enjoy.
On May 15, students in grades 8 through 12 at Atlantic Christian School participated in Re-Ignite 2025, a special half-day spiritual event focused on encouraging students to grow in their walk with God.
The morning began with worship led by the Gospel of Grace worship team, creating a sacred time for students to focus their hearts on the Lord. Throughout the event, students heard powerful messages from guest speakers Jesse Stokes, John Mol, and Brian Soucier. Each speaker challenged and encouraged our students to stay grounded in God’s Word and live out their faith daily.
We are grateful for this opportunity to set aside time during the school day to pour into the spiritual lives of our students.
Thank you to the Gospel of Grace team and our speakers for pointing our students to God’s truth and encouraging them in their faith journey.
We are deeply thankful to everyone who participated in and supported our 2025 Cougar Classic Golf Fundraiser at Harbor Pines Golf Club on Thursday, May 1. Because of your generosity and God’s provision, we were blessed to raise over $41,000 in gross proceeds, for Atlantic Christian School’s Tuition Assistance Fund—praise the Lord!
The day was filled with sunshine, great fellowship, and friendly competition. Congratulations to our Cougar Classic Golf Tournament winners:
1st Place Foursome – Costello Roofing
2nd Place Foursome – Servpro
3rd Place Foursome – Drew Carney’s Group
Women’s Closest to the Pin – Jen Dimaio
Women’s Longest Drive – Jen Domsic
Men’s Closest to the Pin – Rob Luderitz
Men’s Longest Drive – Casey Klingert
That evening, we welcomed nearly 100 guests to the Cougar Classic Social Mixer, where they enjoyed food, music, games, and fellowship. During the event, we had the honor of presenting the Servant’s Heart Award to these outstanding honorees: AtlantiCare Healthy Schools, Healthy Children; Joe and Amanda Wyzen-Gregory; Brenda Maurer; Philip Senseney; and Frank and Elaine Santo.
We are also very grateful to our Celebration Sponsors, John and Susan Shirk, and to our Event Sponsors, including Costello Roofing, Chick-fil-A Fire Road, Sterling Tackle, The Boyle Real Estate Team, and Christian Loeb, AIF, CFP, LPL Financial. We’re also grateful to our hole and table sponsors, donors, ACS staff and volunteers—you helped make this event possible.
A special thank you to all who participated in our Silent Auction, whether at the event or online. Thanks to your support, we raised $12,737 through the auction alone! We appreciate every Silent Auction donor and ACS classroom that contributed.
Finally, we’re thankful to Harbor Pines Golf Club for once again hosting this memorable event.
All proceeds from the Cougar Classic help make Christian education more affordable through our Tuition Assistance Fund. Thank you for your faithful support.
At Atlantic Christian School, we believe true greatness is found in serving others, as Jesus taught in Matthew 23:11—”The greatest among you will be your servant.” Each year, we honor individuals and organizations who reflect this Christlike spirit through our Servant’s Heart Award.
We are pleased to announce the 2025 recipients whose selfless service has been a blessing to our school community:
AtlantiCare – Healthy Schools, Healthy Children Program
For over a decade, AtlantiCare has provided generous health and wellness support to ACS—funding projects like our greenhouse, water bottle stations, new PE equipment, and more. Their instructors have also brought engaging health education into our classrooms, and their commitment to student and staff wellness truly reflects a servant’s heart.
Joe and Amanda Wyzen-Gregory
Joe and Amanda have consistently served our school with joy and generosity—donating food, time, and expertise for school events and our high school culinary class. Their faithful support, including sponsoring athletic banners and helping with food distribution, shows their deep care for ACS.
Brenda Maurer
Brenda has been a faithful volunteer in the cafeteria, library, and at many school events. She and her husband have also blessed our students by sponsoring scholarships for graduating seniors. Her consistent, quiet service is a beautiful reflection of Christ’s love.
Frank and Elaine Santo
This faithful couple has covered our school in prayer each month and encouraged our community through spiritual support. Elaine also leads GEMS (Girls Empowered for the Master’s Service), mentoring young girls in biblical identity and purpose.
Philip Senseney
Philip serves ACS faithfully as a dependable bus driver and behind-the-scenes helper. From vehicle upkeep to assisting with school systems, he is always willing to lend a hand with a humble heart.
We thank God for each of these recipients. Their example inspires us all to serve with love, humility, and joy.
Make plans to dine out with family and friends at Applebee’s in Somers Point on Tuesday, May 20 for ACS Spirit Night! When you eat at Applebee’s that evening, 15% of your total check will be donated to support our Athletic Program.
It’s a great way to enjoy a delicious meal while helping our student-athletes! Just be sure to present the flyer below to your server when you order.
Thank you for partnering with us to strengthen Cougar Athletics—we hope to see you there!
On Tuesday, March 26, students in the Spanish 3 Dual Enrollment class had a special opportunity to immerse themselves in Hispanic culture during a field trip to several local establishments. Accompanied by Mrs. Johnson and Mr. De la Cruz, the students visited Milly’s Restaurant in Vineland, where they enjoyed delicious, authentic Latin American dishes.
While at Milly’s, the students spoke in Spanish with owner Ms. Milly and her staff. Ms. Milly was impressed by the students’ respectful demeanor and how well they communicated in Spanish throughout the visit.
The next stop was Hacienda’s Bakery, where students continued practicing their Spanish while sampling fresh pastries. Hacienda’s also offers a variety of hot food options—some of which Mr. De la Cruz knows by heart!
The final visit of the day was to Downtown Deli, where students ordered empanadas and other treats to take home to their families. It was a fun, flavorful day filled with learning, laughter, and cultural appreciation.
We are grateful for the opportunity to experience the richness of Hispanic culture right here in our local community—and we thank the Lord for a special day of connection and learning.
Do you know a family looking for a safe, nurturing, Christ-centered school community? Invite them to our upcoming ACS Open House on Wednesday, April 16, from 4:00 to 7:00 PM.
This Open House is a wonderful opportunity for families to tour our campus, meet our teachers and staff, and learn more about our academic programs and biblical foundation we offer for students from 18 months through 12th grade.
No RSVP needed—walk-ins are welcome!
Let’s work together to help more families discover the ACS Difference. Can’t make it to the Open House?  Families can contact Mrs. Jessica Martin at jmartin@acseht.org or (609) 653-1199 ext 314 to schedule a private tour at their convenience.
The Atlantic Christian School Junior Class is excited to announce this year’s Prom, themed The Great Gatsby, inspired by the elegance and charm of the Roaring Twenties. The event will be held on Friday, May 23, 2025, from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. at Flanders Hotel in Ocean City, NJ.
Students can look forward to an unforgettable evening of music, dancing, and fellowship in a setting that reflects the glitz and glamour of the 1920s.
Cost: $90 per student for Prom
After-Prom: $15 per student
All students attending must complete a permission slip and purchase their tickets online. Please use the QR code below to access the ticket form and permission slip.
Sixteen high school students were honored for their excellence in academics, leadership, Christian character, and service at the Atlantic Christian School’s National Honor Society induction ceremony on March 25. This year’s event marked the 13th anniversary of the NHS chapter at ACS, which was established in 2012.
The following students were inducted into the Honor Society:
10th Grade Students Ashlee Alford Lily Boyle Logan Campsmith Sophia Capito Aiden Cortes Mackenzie Flynn Garrett Martin Gianna Mitchell Alexander Newhall Luke Odell Isabella Santos Kalee Tardif Nathanael Thompson Ethan Warren
11th Grade Students Angela Awad Justin Basso
Mrs. Christina Ragland, ACS National Honor Society Advisor and Guidance Counselor, welcomed an audience of approximately 100 family members, faculty, and guests. She praised the inductees for their dedication and perseverance and led a prayer of blessing over them. To be eligible for membership, students in grades 10-12 must uphold a strong academic record with a minimum 3.8 GPA and demonstrate excellence in leadership, Christian character, and service.
Senior Sophia Johnson, the NHS chapter president, guided the inductees through the traditional ceremony, which included reciting the Honor Society pledge, signing the official chapter registry, and lighting a candle to symbolize their commitment. Upper School Principal Gail Alford presented each new member with a certificate recognizing their achievement.
Senior NHS members also played a key role in the ceremony, sharing insights into the spiritual meaning behind the Honor Society’s four core principles. The student speakers were Taylor Sutton (on scholarship), Gabriella Goodwin (on leadership), and Makayla Tomlinson (on both Christian character and service).The ceremony’s guest speaker, Mr. Christian Ragland from AtlantiCare, encouraged the inductees to lead with integrity and make a difference in the world. He shared the words of Minor Myers, Jr.: “Go into the world and do well, but most importantly, go into the world and do good.” He also reminded them of their calling as followers of Christ, quoting Mark 16:15: “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
The ACS “Be The Light” Talent Show, held Friday, March 20, an exciting evening of creative and fun performances as 18 students shared their God-given talents on stage. The show was hosted by Mrs. Kelly Flynn and her husband, Michael, and featured an exciting variety of performances—from singing and instrumental pieces to acrobatics and comedy.
The evening opened with a group number, “We’re All In This Together,” and ended on a powerful note with the song “Champion.” During intermission, sophomore Isabella Santos gave a beautiful vocal performance of “Trust in You.”
Our panel of judges—Katie Alvis, Emily Perkins, David Santos, and Saita Perkins—had the tough job of selecting winners from such a talented group of students. Congratulations to the following students who received awards:
Elementary Division
1st Place: Brooklyn Bynum (4th Grade) – Piano and Rap, “Let’s Have A Good Time”
The 20th Annual ACS Intramural Volleyball Tournament brought a fun and high-energy evening to our gym on Friday, March 14, drawing a great crowd of students, families, alumni, and friends. Over 75 players took part, making it a great evening of friendly competition and school spirit.
Twelve teams from grades 8–12 faced off in this year’s tournament, each bringing their best to the court. After several exciting matchups, the Pink Panthers came out on top, earning the championship title. The team—made up of six high school students: freshman Caelyn Domsic; sophomores Ethan Costello, Zion Dawkins, Mackenzie Flynn, Jude Gibbs; and Isabella Santos—defeated The Daily Grind, who took second place.
The tournament was organized by PE teachers Kaylee Breunig and Jesse Peterson, who did a fantastic job planning and running the event from start to finish.
A big thank-you goes to all the volunteers who helped make the evening run smoothly, and to everyone who grabbed a snack or drink at the Cougar Den. Your support helped raise funds for the ACS Cheer Team!
The ACS gym was filled with smiles, sparkle, and celebration on Friday, March 15, as over 250 girls and their guests gathered for the annual Butterfly Ball. This special event, hosted by the Senior Class, welcomed girls in Kindergarten through 5th grade for an evening of food, dancing, and fun.
Guests enjoyed a buffet-style dinner before the fun continued with music, dancing, and games. A photo booth captured sweet memories, while face painting and butterfly crafts added a creative and colorful touch to the night.
The Butterfly Ball also served as a fundraiser for the Class of 2025, with proceeds supporting their upcoming senior trip. A big thank you goes to the senior class, and their parents who prepared the delicious dinner and helped make the night a great success.
A link to download the photos will be emailed to the families who attended the event.
We are excited to have a new partnership with I55 Book Fairs! This is a Christian company that is passionate about raising up a generation of inspired readers. All products are screened to avoid unwanted content, while still offering an extensive selection of books. Profits will be used to refresh the ACS Library collection and to fund academic programs. During the next few weeks, our students will have the opportunity to make wish lists in school, browse or shop online at home, and shop during school hours or after school. Please read the following information to find out more.
ONLINE SHOPPING (Open NOW – Nov 27th)
Families are encouraged to shop online for even more selection. CLICK HERE to shop our online store NOW through November 27th. Online shopping benefits our school too, and orders over $50 ship to your home for free.
WISH LISTS (November 13-19)
The students from PreK-3 to 5th Grade have visited the ACS Book Fair to make individual wish lists. A copy of each wish list will be sent home by the end of the week so parents can approve selections and send money in with students during shopping week or shop online from the student’s list.
STUDENT SHOPPING (November 20-27)
Preschool classes and elementary classes will visit during these shopping days to make their purchases. We will also be open after school every day for parents to shop with their kids. All Preschool through elementary students must be accompanied by a teacher or other adult chaperone at the book fair. In addition, Middle School students can shop during 8th period, and High School students are allowed to shop during their lunch break.
FAMILY SHOPPING
We will offer multiple opportunities for Family Shopping:
Nov 20, after school shopping, from 3-4pm
Nov 21, after school shopping, from 3-5:30pm
Nov 22, after school shopping, from 3-4pm
Nov 25, after school shopping, from 3-4pm
Nov 26, after school shopping, from 3-4pm
Nov 27, Grandparents Day event, 10:30am-12:30pm
PAYMENT OPTIONS
Cash, Card, I55 Gift Card, or Check (Payable to Atlantic Christian School)
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
We are still looking for volunteers and there are various time slots still available. Volunteers tasks include assisting students and families as they shop the book fair, and breaking down and cleaning up after the close of the fair. CLICK HERE to sign up to volunteer at this year’s book fair. Volunteers must have background checks completed.
Thank you for your support in making this the best book fair yet!
On Thursday, November 14, 2024, ACS hosted a Veterans Appreciation Breakfast and Chapel which was attended by approximately 60 veterans and government officials. Class of 2022 Seaman Cole Lewis shared a testimony and ACS Parent Petty Officer 1st Class Grant Kelly gave an address to the audience. They both serve in the U.S. Coast Guard.
The program also featured a presentation of the colors by ACS Boy Scout Troop and Cub Pack 389, along with musical performances by students from the 1st and 3rd grades, the Middle School Choir, and the 5th Grade, Middle School, and High School Worship Teams. Senior Richard Casagrande concluded the event with prayer.
ACS also honored great-great grandfather and veteran John Christman for receiving the Congressional Gold Medal on March 21, 2024, at a ceremony on Capitol Hill. He was met with a standing ovation in recognition of this remarkable achievement.
Egg Harbor Township Committeemen Paul Hodson and William Pauls attended the event, joining in paying tribute to those who have served.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all veterans and active-duty servicemen and women for their unwavering commitment and selfless service to our nation.
We invite you to reach out to the veterans in your lives—friends and family—and invite them to attend our Veterans Appreciation Chapel on Thursday, November 14. This special service is a time to honor and thank our veterans for their sacrifices and dedication. Let’s come together as a community to show our gratitude and support for those who have bravely served our country. Your invitation will make this event even more meaningful!
Tickets for ACS’s production of Willy Wonka JR. will go on sale starting Tuesday, October 15 and can be purchased at this link.Â
The show will feature three performances:
Friday, November 15, at 7 p.m.
Saturday, November 16, at 2 p.m.
Saturday, November 16, at 7 p.m.
In addition, ads and boosters for the playbill and t-shirt advertisements are now available for purchase. These are a great way to promote your business or congratulate your favorite cast member. The deadline to purchase ads is Monday, October 28. All proceeds will support the ACS drama program.
Join Ms. Danays Hernandez from the New Jersey Higher Education Student Assistance Authority on Thursday, October 24, 2024, in the ACS Multi-Purpose Room. This session will be a valuable resource for junior and senior students and their families seeking information about financial aid for college.
If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. Christina Ragland at cragland@acseht.org.
ACS Mock Trial members will begin meeting this week to unpack a new liability case about an untimely death of a prize-winning show dog. High School students will take on roles of lawyers or witnesses. Students in grades 7-8 may join as members of the jury, gaining experience in preparation for this prestigious competition. Register at mocktrial.acseht.org by October 23rd!
2024-25 marks the fourth consecutive season for the reassembled Atlantic Christian School’s Mock Trial Team. Three of the team’s original members have graduated and are now studying at colleges and universities along the east coast. Last year, ACS salutatorian Ryleigh Martin was awarded a $2500 scholarship due to her achievements in the Mock Trial program. There are many academic and social benefits to joining the ACS Mock Trial team, and all are welcome. Note: ACS policy has requirements in place for participation in any extracurricular activity, including maintaining passing grades and outstanding character.
Mock Trial Roles and Requirements
Lawyers
Lawyers (Grades 9-12 only) develop case strategies and deliver an opening/closing statement to the court. Lawyers question witnesses on direct and cross examination while using legal objections to block or challenge improper testimony. This role is for a highly committed student who is a critical thinker and is comfortable with improvisation. Lawyer Meetings are on Wednesdays 4-6pm and may be joined in person or virtually, upon request. Lawyers also attend Full Team practices on Mondays 3-5pm beginning on October 28th.
Witnesses
Witnesses (Grades 9-12 only) play a key character in the trial and testify on the stand. Witnesses must learn the details of their statements and basic facts of the case. This is a role for someone who enjoys the performing arts and is quick thinking on their feet. Witnesses attend practices on Mondays 3-5pm beginning on October 28th.
Members of the Jury
Jurors (Grades 7 & up) observe the trial and listen carefully to testimony. A panel of six jurors will weigh evidence presented during trial and collectively form a verdict on whether the defendant is guilty or not guilty. Jurors are not required to attend practices but may join us for any Monday practices. Dress rehearsal is a requirement, and it’s recommended that jurors attend at least two Monday practices before the trial. Jurors must attend 2+ trial dates in Jan/Feb and be prepared to serve in at least 1 trial. Registration deadline is December 20 2024.
Compete Against Other NJ Schools
The Vincent J. Apruzzese High School Mock Trial Competition is sponsored by the New Jersey State Bar Foundation (NJSBF) in cooperation with New Jersey’s county bar associations and the New Jersey State Bar Association. The Mock Trial Competition begins at the county level and moves into the regional, semi-finals, and state finals. A national round begins in the spring where the finalists from each state study a new case and travel to compete against other states. Key Benefits:
and to walk humbly with your God. After school practices are held in the Computer Lab, Annex Room 180. If you have any questions about the mock trial program, email rhahn-chaney@acseht.org.
Get ready for an exciting Homecoming at Atlantic Christian School! We invite all students, families, staff, and alumni to join us for an evening filled with games, activities, and fun. Cheer on our middle school and varsity teams, enjoy great food, and reconnect with friends. It’s going to be a memorable night—see you there!
