Post Tagged with: "Atlantic Christian School"

Mock Trial Season Kicks Off with New Liability Case

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:

  • friendship building
  • critical thinking skills
  • communication skills
  • public speaking skills
  • scholarships

Student-created Mock Trial promo video

Join our ACS Mock Trial Team!

Micah 6:8

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good.

And what does the Lord require of you?

To act justly and to love mercy

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.

Join us at Homecoming 2024

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!

Alumni, RSVP at https://bit.ly/acsalumnirsvp for a free gift. Reconnect with friends—RSVP today!

Get Tickets to the Homecoming Dance 2024

The Homecoming Dance is happening on Saturday, October 19, and will kick off at 6:30 p.m. It’s going to be an evening filled with great music, dancing, and fun with friends. The dance is exclusively for students in grades 9-12. 

Don’t wait—purchase your tickets today at https://bit.ly/acshoco24

Join us at Homecoming 2024

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!

Alumni, RSVP at https://bit.ly/acsalumnirsvp for a free gift. Reconnect with friends—RSVP today!

Spirit Week is Next Week!

Get ready for Spirit Week at ACS!  Next week, students can show off their creativity and school pride by dressing up according to fun daily themes. Check out the image below for the full lineup and get ready for a week full of school spirit!

ACS Race for Ed is Just 15 Days Away!

We want to remind everyone that the ACS Race for Education is just 15 days away, happening on Friday, October 25, 2024! This annual event is a wonderful opportunity for our students, from PK2 to 12th grade, to come together and support our school’s mission of providing a quality Christian education while nurturing their spiritual growth.

As we prepare for this exciting day, we encourage all students, parents, and supporters to share our fundraising page link, www.acsracefored.com, with family and friends. Your contributions, no matter the size, will directly support our programs and services, helping us keep tuition affordable for all families. Our goal is to raise $45,000, and with your help, we can achieve it!

Every dollar raised makes a significant impact on the lives of our students and helps us maintain our commitment to excellence in education. Whether it’s enhancing classroom resources or launching exciting new programs, your support is vital.

We invite you to join us in this effort. Share the link www.acsracefored.com, spread the word, and encourage your family and friends to donate. Together, we can make a big difference for Atlantic Christian School!

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing everyone at the Race for Education!

Willy Wonka JR. Cast Announced – Ads and Boosters Now Available!

The cast for Willy Wonka JR. has been announced. Congratulations to all who made it into the cast! Click here to view the complete cast list.

Ads and boosters to appear in the playbill and on cast t-shirts for ACS’s production of Willy Wonka JR.. are now available for purchase. The deadline to purchase an electronic or display ad to promote your business or congratulate your favorite cast member in the playbill is Monday, October 28. All proceeds from ad sales will support the ACS Drama program.

The ACS production of Willy Wonka JR. will feature three performances — on Friday, November 15, at 7 p.m., and on Saturday, November 16, at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Show tickets will go on sale Saturday, October 12.

Click here to purchase ads and boosters by no later than October 28.

Gathering Together: Photos From Our 20th Annual Back-to-School BBQ

Over 1,000 parents, students, faculty, and staff gathered for an evening of fun and fellowship at our 20th annual Back-to-School BBQ on Friday, September 13th. There were plenty of activities for children of all ages, including wagon rides, face painting, Ga-Ga ball, inflatable bounce houses, 9-square-in-the-air, corn hole, and much more.

We extend our thanks to the parent volunteers, Board of Directors, and PTF, as well as our dedicated faculty and staff, who worked at the grill, served in the buffet line, donated food, and contributed in many other ways.

A special thank you goes to the following families and businesses: the Pearson Family, Bimbo Bakeries, Gregory’s Restaurant & Bar, Sleepy Hollow Campground, and Master DJ & Sound, who generously donated food and services to make our event a success.

The atmosphere was filled with uplifting Christian music as families enjoyed hamburgers, hot dogs, pulled pork, and more. Attendees also enjoyed an array of desserts, including a variety of cookies and cupcakes, Kona Water Ice, Chef Steve’s popcorn, and funnel cake.

Back-to-School Nights Photos

Thank you to all the parents who joined us for Back-to-School Nights—September 18 for Elementary and September 19 for Upper School. Our teachers had the opportunity to meet with parents and share their goals for the school year. Parents were also informed about volunteer opportunities and the various extracurricular and after-school programs available.

A special thank you to the Parent Teacher Fellowship and the Maxwell Family for providing Chick-fil-A sandwiches for our teachers.

Christian Skate Night Photos

The ACS family had a fantastic time at Christian Skate Night, supporting our High School Missions trip to Belize this Spring! It was an evening filled with exercise, fun, fellowship, and exciting races. Stay tuned for the next Missions Club Fundraiser. The Skate Night raised $2,000 for the trip. Thank you so much for your support.

See You At The Pole

Students, parents, faculty, and staff gathered at the flagpole on Wednesday, September 25, for a meaningful time of prayer and worship, joining thousands across the country for the annual “See You at the Pole” event. Mr. Glancey and the High School Worship Team planned and led everyone in prayer and worship.

“See You at the Pole” (SYATP) is an annual event where students, parents, and community members gather around their school’s flagpole to pray for their school, classmates, teachers, and the world. The event began in 1990 with a small group of students in Texas who wanted to pray for their school. Since then, it has grown into a nationwide movement involving thousands of schools across the United States and even internationally. SYATP emphasizes student-led prayer and worship, fostering a sense of community and spiritual growth among participants.

ACS Releases 2023-2024 Annual Report

Atlantic Christian School is excited to announce the release of its 2023-2024 Annual Report. The report has been shared with school families, donors, and community supporters, including local churches, nonprofits, foundations, and businesses. It offers an overview of student life from preschool through 12th grade, covering service projects, spiritual growth, fine arts, athletics, and notable accomplishments in various competitions.

The report also highlights key improvements to our facilities, including a new soccer turf field, enhanced security with cameras and high-quality doors, fresh flooring in the lobby and main offices, and a complete kitchen renovation.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the 210 donors who contributed cash gifts, grants, or in-kind donations valued at $200 or more during the fiscal year from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. Their generosity has played a crucial role in helping Atlantic Christian School continue its mission to equip students with a Biblical worldview through an accredited academic program, impacting the world for Jesus Christ.

To join us in making a difference for our students, consider donating to our Annual Fund.

CLICK HERE to make a tax-deductible donation to the ACS Annual Fund.
CLICK HERE to view the 2023-2024 Annual Report, available on our school’s website.

Make Plans to Attend Upcoming Back-to-School Nights – Sept. 18 & 19

Parents and guardians are encouraged to attend our upcoming Back-to-School Nights:

  • Wednesday, September 18 for parents and guardians of children in kindergarten through 5th grade
  • Thursday, September 19 for parents and guardians of students in 6th-12th grades

TIME CHANGE: Both events will begin at 6:00 p.m. with a Meet and Greet with new principal. Classroom sessions will begin at 6:30 p.m.

Our teachers and staff look forward to sharing all the good things happening at our school and in your children’s lives. Here are a few ways you can benefit from attending Back-to-School Night:

  • Meet and talk with your child’s teachers
  • Visit your child’s classroom and even sit at their desk
  • Meet other parents in your child’s class
  • Get an early look at some of your child’s classwork
  • Hear about upcoming school events
  • Find out how you can get involved in our school as a volunteer
  • Learn about a variety of after-school enrichment classes and clubs offered throughout the year

The Elementary Back-to-School Night on September 18 will have three sessions, from 6:30-6:55 p.m., 7:00-7:25 p.m., and from 7:30-7:55 p.m. Details about the Upper School Back-to-School Night on September 19 will be sent to 6th-12th grade parents and guardians in an upcoming email from Upper School Principal Gail Alford.

Save the Date! September 25 – See you at the Pole

Please save the date and join us for a school-wide community prayer on Wednesday, September 25, at 7:45 a.m. Families and friends are welcome to gather with our students and staff at the school’s flagpole for the national ‘See You at the Pole’ event. Together, we will pray for our school, our local community, and our nation. We invite you to be a part of this meaningful annual event, as schools—public and private—across the USA will be hosting prayer time.

Mission Club Fundraiser: Christian Skate Night

Join us for Christian Skate Night on Saturday, September 21, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at Young’s Skating Center!  This is a family-friendly event, so invite your friends, family, neighbors, and church friends. Tickets are $15 each ($17 at the door), with a maximum of $60 per family (immediate family members only). Skate rentals will be available at the door. Proceeds will benefit the ACS Missions Club.  To purchase tickets online, visit https://bit.ly/skatenightsept21

Join us for the 20th Back to School BBQ!

Get ready for an unforgettable evening at ACS! We’re thrilled to invite all our families, faculty, and staff to our 20th Annual Back-to-School BBQ on Friday, September 13, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. The menu will feature crowd favorites like hamburgers, hot dogs, pulled BBQ pork, a variety of salads, ice cream, and more! Plus, there will be plenty of fun games and activities for students of all ages.

This is the perfect chance to meet new families, catch up with old friends, and kick off the school year together as one school family!

Tickets are just $8 per person, with a family maximum of $30 (immediate family members only). You can purchase your tickets in the school office or at the BBQ.

Enjoy a wagon ride, face painting, ga-ga ball, inflatables, a bouncy house, spike ball, corn hole, and 9-square-in-the-air! You may also purchase funnel cake, Chef Steve’s popcorn, and other tasty snacks throughout the evening.

We can’t wait to see you there!

To volunteer, click here.

Join us for the 20th Back to School BBQ!

Get ready for an unforgettable evening at ACS! We’re thrilled to invite all our families, faculty, and staff to our 20th Annual Back-to-School BBQ on Friday, September 13, from 5:00-8:00 p.m. The menu will feature crowd favorites like hamburgers, hot dogs, pulled BBQ pork, a variety of salads, ice cream, and more! Plus, there will be plenty of fun games and activities for students of all ages.

This is the perfect chance to meet new families, catch up with old friends, and kick off the school year together as one school family!

Tickets are just $8 per person, with a family maximum of $30 (immediate family members only). You can purchase your tickets in the school office or at the BBQ.

Enjoy a wagon ride, face painting, ga-ga ball, inflatables, a bouncy house, spike ball, corn hole, and 9-square-in-the-air! You may also purchase funnel cake, Chef Steve’s popcorn, and other tasty snacks throughout the evening.

We can’t wait to see you there!

To volunteer, click here.

Congratulations, Class of 2024!

The Class of 2024 received their diplomas on June 7 during a heartfelt commencement ceremony filled with celebration and inspiration. It was a day to honor their hard work, dedication, and the culmination of years of learning and growth.

The ceremony featured final words of biblical wisdom and advice delivered by Valedictorian Evangelina Kim, Salutatorian Ryleigh Martin, and Mr. Drew Carney. Each speaker encouraged the graduates to embrace their faith and trust in God’s plan for their futures.

Board of Directors Chair Chaz Wyckoff gave a powerful closing charge in his benediction, reminding the graduates to carry their Christian values with them as they step into the next chapter of their lives. His words left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

We are proud to announce that our graduates have been offered approximately $1.2 million in scholarships, a testament to their academic excellence and perseverance. Most of these accomplished students will be attending college in the fall, ready to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact on the world.

Below, you will find the Class of 2024 and photos from the commencement ceremony, capturing the joy and pride of this significant milestone.

Class of 2024

  • Valedictorian: Evangelina Kim
  • Salutatorian: Ryleigh Martin
  • Kaia Jade Barbour
  • Lukas Davis Benson
  • Mia Antonia Bohan
  • Angelina Veilma Casagrande
  • Zachary Evan Fosbenner
  • Noah James Gibbs
  • Andre Mauricio Gomez-Rugoff, Jr.
  • Madeline Lori Haag
  • Vera Marie Huff
  • Emmanuel Jake Kwame Owusu Johnson
  • Rebecca Lynn Kelley
  • Evangelina Colleen Kim
  • Ryleigh Anne Martin
  • Nathan Wesley Mills
  • Haven Savanah Sanchez
  • Jahnae Cristin Spoltore
  • Noelle Amelia Kennedy Thompson
  • Cadence Alyssa Warren
  • Gary Charles Wyckoff, Jr.

The following have completed their senior coursework at ACS:

  • Louis John Spirko
  • Kennedy Lynn Vasquez
  • Malachi Daniel Vasquez

ACS Open House: March 23

Join us on Saturday, March 23rd, from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm as we open our doors to welcome prospective students and families to an ACS Open House! Please forward the flyer below to prospective family and friends and invite them to discover the ACS Difference! Attendees will be able to meet our staff, take a tour of our campus, and experience what makes Atlantic Christian School one of the leading Christian schools in South Jersey. Questions? Contact Jessica Martin at jmartin@acseht.org or 609-653-1199 ext. 314.

Donate Items for Silent Auction Classroom Gift Baskets

Our Cougar Classic on May 2 is not just an event for golfers, but ACS parents, family members and friends are invited to join us in the Social Mixer and Silent Auction held after the tournament in the clubhouse at Harbor Pines in Egg Harbor Township. The Silent Auction will include large, themed gift baskets sponsored by our preschool to 8th grade classes. The deadline is Monday, April 8 for families to send in items for these classroom baskets.

“The classroom gift baskets have been some of the most popular and hotly sought-after items in our past Silent Auctions,” said PJ Santos, ACS Director of Development and Communication. “We look forward to seeing the creativity and generosity of our parents that I know will make this year’s gift baskets a hit at our auction.”

Santos is also seeking volunteers to join her in reaching out to businesses to ask for donations for the auction. If you would like to help, please email Santos at psantos@acseht.org or call 609-233-5410.

The flyer below lists the Silent Auction basket themes by grade — so please refer to the list as you shop for items for your child’s classroom basket.

Re-Engage High School Spiritual Emphasis Day Scheduled for Thursday, February 15

On Thursday, February 15, students in grades 9-12 will take part in the Re-Engage event during the school day. The event will feature a keynote address by Pastor Urick Lewis and then students will attend breakout sessions on various topics led by other special speakers. This event will include a special time of worship and prayer aimed at reinvigorating their connection with the Lord.

Save The Date: February 22 – Pastor Appreciation Day

We invite all pastoral staff, youth and worship leaders, and Sunday school teachers to attend our Pastor Appreciation Day at ACS on Thursday, February 22. The event will include breakfast and a student-led chapel. Invitations are being mailed to local churches. Please feel free to forward the invitation below to your church pastor.

ACS Basketball Teams Opening Season Success

Athletic Director Dan Vasquez shared the outstanding achievements of our varsity basketball teams in the season opener. “The girls’ team clinched victories in two tournaments, namely DELCO and the Doane Spartan Classic, winning an impressive 5-0 overall record. They continued their streak by winning the conference opener against Gloucester County Christian.

Our boys’ team mirrored this success by winning the DELCO tournament, marking the first instance in the school’s history where both boys and girls secured victories in the same tournament. Although they endured challenging losses at the Boardwalk Classic in Wildwood over Christmas break, the boys bounced back with a triumphant conference opener against Gloucester County Christian, and a record of 3-3.

The Varsity Basketball Team Rosters are listed below:

Middle School Teams Excellence:

The positive momentum extends to our middle school teams as well. The boys’ team has a commendable 4-2 record, while the girls, under the guidance of our new coach Dakota Keller, are showcasing great potential with a 4-2 record. Keller’s impact on the girls’ team is notable, and we are optimistic about their continued growth under her leadership.

Below are the Middle School Basketball Team Rosters:

Exploring Animal Habitats: Second Graders Showcase Winter Science Projects

The second-grade students of Mrs. Hockenberry and Mrs Harrison explored animal habitats. From polar bears and penguins to snakes and frogs, these young learners created imaginative three-dimensional dioramas in a winter science project.

These dioramas were completed by January 18 and are now on display in the hallway outside the 2nd-grade classrooms. Along with building these creative dioramas, students presented informative oral reports about their chosen animals and habitats.

“The students did an excellent job with their projects. I especially enjoyed watching them discover how an animal can be at risk when its habitat is disturbed or if something vital to them is harmed or taken away. God entrusted us with the care of animals, and it’s our responsibility to nurture and protect the environment to ensure their survival,” shared Mrs. Hockenberry.

ACS Costume Club: Crafting Creativity

Thirteen girls from grades 6-12 joined Mrs. Hahn-Chaney on Thursdays for the first semester costume club/fashion design elective. This weekly class was focused on developing costumes for the Beauty and the Beast play last fall, as well as for the elementary Christmas cantata, Hotel Noel.

The final weeks in this elective were focused on promoting school spirit and participating in themed dress-down days such as the ugly sweater contest in December and green and white days in January. Mrs. Hahn-Chaney sewed white knit headbands for the students to embellish with green puff paint and fabric markers to create a unique accessory, particularly to wear to our school basketball games. Some painted on basketball shapes, and others cut and glued paw prints from green felt to cheer on the Cougars and Lady Cougars! Last week, the group created green and white garlands that can be worn as necklaces, using torn strips of printed cotton fabric.

We are excited to see what the next school play will be so our costume department can contribute to the drama department again in 2024!