Post Tagged with: "Atlantic Christian School"

ACS Association Annual Meeting News: School’s Mortgage Paid Off, Six Receive Servant’s Heart Award, Five New Board Members Elected

Over 140 parents, faculty, and staff gathered on May 15 in the ACS gym for the Annual Meeting of the Atlantic Christian School Association, listening to reports on this year’s academic and financial progress, electing five members to the Board of Directors, and honoring five individuals and one local business with the Servant’s Heart Award.

By far, the most impactful report came from Business Administrator Kelly Flynn and Board Treasurer Chris Loeb, who announced that the school’s mortgage had been paid off, prompting an enthusiastic, standing ovation and cheers from the audience. ACS had secured a $4 million mortgage in 2004 to build the school’s two-story, 65,000-square-foot educational building. Now, 19 years later, that mortgage had been paid off, with the final payment of $1,400,028 made on April 25.

Business Administrator Kelly Flynn and Board Treasurer Chris Loeb announce that the school’s mortgage has been paid off.

Loeb also noted that retiring the mortgage frees up $120,000 a year that would be used to increase salaries for faculty and staff, prompting another round of applause.

Board Chair Les Tomlinson opened the Annual Meeting with a short devotion and then those in attendance broke into small groups for a time of prayer.  Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen touched on highlights from the past school year, referencing a 2022-2023 State of the School Report that was provided as a hand-out to those in attendance.

Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen

“This was our hardest year because of the tremendous growth we’ve experienced in enrollment, staffing, and other areas, but it was also the best year,” Oblen said. “When you are stretched, God shows up.” The significant growth has occurred over a period of six years.  In 2017, ACS had some 470 students enrolled, a $3 million budget, and close to 80 employees. In this school year, enrollment topped 700 students, the budget grew to $5.5 million, and nearly 120 employees were on staff.

Jim Gibbs, chair of the Board’s Nominating Committee, announced that nine candidates were in the running for five positions on the Board. The nominees, whom Gibbs described as excellent candidates who clearly loved the Lord and the school — were Damien Correa, Holly Dawkins, Heather Goodwin, Kris Jacoby, Chris Loeb, Jeff Montemurro, Doug Pearson, Ray Schlundt, and Deb Tormey. Each nominee came forward to give remarks before the Association members participated in the election.

The Association elected five new members to the Board of Directors, from left: Kris Jacoby, Damien Correa, Raymond Schlundt, Chris Loeb, and Doug Pearson.

The newly-elected members to the Board of Directors, who will serve 3-year terms on the 12-member Board that oversees the governance and policies of the school, are: Damien Correa, Kris Jacoby, Chris Loeb, Doug Pearson, and Ray Schlundt. Their official term of service will begin on July 1.

Board member Chaz Wyckoff then announced the recipients of the school’s annual Servant’s Heart Award — Lee Martin, Jennifer DiMaio, Kris Jacoby, Rudy and Angela Lushina, and Copiers Plus.

Martin, who was unable to attend the meeting, is a school parent, alumni parent, and former staff member. He is currently the Director of Communications at the Ocean City Tabernacle, but he has continued to serve at ACS as the Technical Director of several ACS musicals and has been the driving force in achieving major upgrades to the school’s sound and lighting systems. DiMaio, also an ACS parent, has been the volunteer advisor of the after-school Elementary Servant’s Heart Club since 2015. She planned and implemented over 80 service projects, impacting the lives of hundreds of ACS students and helping them develop a servant’s heart.

Jacoby is an alumni parent who began serving at ACS in 2004 when she enrolled her sons, Andrew and Joshua. She volunteered as a room parent and with the Parent-Teacher Fellowship and served for 9 years on the Board of Directors. ACS parents Rudy and Angela Lushina have been dedicated volunteers since joining the ACS family in 2011. They have served as chaperones at school dances, helped out at Missions Club fundraisers, served at the Back-to-School BBQ, and at other school events and fundraisers, and are generous school donors.

The final award recipient, Copiers Plus, with offices in Egg Harbor Township and Ocean City, has been providing copiers to ACS since 1994, and has also helped meet some of the school’s printing and signage needs, consistently offering excellent pricing and customer service. Copiers Plus owner Bob Matthews accepted the award, accompanied by his senior account manager, Dan Celluci, who has been the school’s account rep from the beginning.

In the final order of business, three Association members who are school parents were nominated to serve on the Board’s Nominating Committee representing the Association next year — Tommy Barbour, Jennifer DiMaio, and Jason Kiefer. Association members will be receiving an electronic ballot to vote for these nominees.

In closing remarks, Board Chair Tomlinson praised God for His provision that enabled the school to pay off the mortgage. “The mortgage was a mountain and God got us over that mountain,” Tomlinson said. “It was exciting to see that when we focus on Jesus, the impossible can happen.” Tomlinson closed the meeting in prayer.

Volunteers, Departing Staff Recognized at Year-End Thank-You Lunch

ACS recognized and thanked volunteers, faculty, and staff for their commitment and service over the past school year at our annual, year-end Thank-You Lunch on Monday, June 12 in the Multi-Purpose Room. Event Coordinator Christian Delacruz said that ACS was blessed with some 60 parents, grandparents, alumni parents, and friends in the community who gave generously of their time and talents as volunteers.

“We truly appreciate your selfless dedication and service to our school and our students, helping with our fundraising events, student lunches, teacher appreciation lunches, and much more,” Delacruz said. “We couldn’t have done it without you.” Delacruz and Services Coordinator Anne Block introduced 20 volunteers who were able to attend the lunch and presented them with a $25 gift card as a thank-you gift.

Some of the volunteers who attended the luncheon served in the lunch room, on the Parent-Teacher Fellowship board, sold concessions in the Cougar Den, helped train teachers in integrating technology into the curriculum, and served at the Race for Education, Cougar Classic Golf Tournament, and Legacy Gala fundraisers.

The volunteers pictured are, back row from left: Greg Louderback, Heather Shivers, Paul Vogel, Terry Vogel, Lori Pearson, Lisa Lawler, Brenda Maurer, Polly Ellison, Lisa Connolly, Ely Jacoby, Margie Rosso, Maria Campbell, Katelin Oglesby, and Alisun Klingert-Richards; first row from left: Patty Rosie, Michelle Stein, Amanda Costello, Jen Domsic, Art Jacoby, and Jan Beebe.

Parents Paul and Terry Vogel were recognized for their 28 years of volunteer service at ACS.

Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen also gave special recognition to ACS parents Paul and Terry Vogel for their 28 years of volunteer service while their 10 children have attended ACS. Paul has served on the Board of Directors and other Board committees and Terry has been the long-time president of the Parent-Teacher Fellowship. Their 10th child, Caleb, graduated on June 9 with the Class of 2023.

“I don’t have enough words to describe what a blessing you both have been to ACS for the past 28 years,” Oblen said. “We will miss you and we are so grateful for the way you have always promoted Christian education to everyone you meet. So many families have come to ACS because of you.” Terry said she and Paul plan to be involved with ACS in the future as they expect some of their grandchildren to attend ACS.

ACS also gave a warm send-off to 14 faculty and staff members who are leaving ACS to pursue other endeavors. “We appreciate you and we love you,” said Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen.  “You’re a part of our ACS family and a part of our heart.”

Oblen presented each departing employee at the thank-you lunch with a personalized framed word art created out of words that fellow employees used to described their character and abilities. Twelve teachers and two staff members — Athletic Director Pam Hitchner and Director of Development and Communication Carole Karabashian — were recognized.

The departing teachers who attended the lunch were, pictured from left: high school Bible teacher Urick Lewis; 4th grade teacher Eric Tardif; Spanish teacher Minelva Miller; Spanish teacher Estefany Gomez; art teacher Sherry Mirakian; Early Education teacher Jessica Samuels; Early Education teacher Heather Aspenberg; Early Education teacher Ruby Lewis; and 1st grade teacher Mindy Capito. Not in attendance: 5th grade teacher Samuel Gottschall; middle school science teacher Kelly Kirchhoff;  and math/business teacher Chris Lopez.

Information Technology Class Receives Donation of 3D Printer, Grant for Computer Club and 3D Printer Supplies

The donation of a 3D printer in early May to Mrs. Hahn-Chaney’s high school Information Technology class launched new exploration into 3D printing and a $1,000 grant also received recently is helping fund equipment and supplies for the printer, as well as supporting the offering of a computer science summer class for students in grades 4-8.

The CR-10 Creality 3D printer, which was in excellent used condition, was donated by ACS parent David Santos and once in place, Santos helped set up the printer, including downloading slicing software onto a computer linked to the printer.

“My students were very excited to have a 3D printer to use in class,” Hahn-Chaney said. “One student, Zachary Fosbenner, already had a lot of knowledge about 3D printers and we’ve been learning together and making small items like sunglasses, a purple ball, and a glow-in-the-dark planet.” The students also used a software called Tinker-CAD to make their own custom luggage tags.

To help provide funds to support the educational use of the 3D printer, Hahn-Chaney applied for and received a $1,000 grant in May from the Computer Science of New Jersey Coalition (CS4NJ).  The grant funds were generously provided to CS4NJ by Google to support New Jersey computer science education.

“We are so grateful for this grant that will help us purchase more PLA and TPU filaments, which are the raw materials used to make any 3D item,” Hahn-Chaney said. The grant will also be used to purchase a laser leveler for the 3D printer and will support the activities of the computer science summer class that Hahn-Chaney will be teaching from July 10-14 from 10 a.m. to noon, open to 4th-8th grade students.

Hahn-Chaney said the Information Technology class will be offered again to high school students in the fall of 2023 and learning 3D printer design will be a part of that class.

CLICK HERE for more information and to register for the summer computer science class.

Jersey Shore Federal Credit Union Representative Informs 11th Graders About a Financial Institution Career

11th grade students in Mrs. Ragland’s College and Careers class learned about the ins and outs of a career working at a financial institution from Justin Chubbs, a representative from the Northfield office of the Jersey Shore Federal Credit Union.

“This class helps our students gain knowledge about various careers by hearing from different guest speakers from those professions,” said Guidance Counselor Christina Ragland. Over the past school year, Ragland has invited other guest speakers to share information with the 21 students in the class about careers in social sciences, nursing, business and entrepreneurship, and more.

Chubbs attended Atlantic Cape Community College and earned a BS in psychology from Stockton University. He worked for four years as a substitute teacher in a K-8 school in Absecon and then decided to try something different. He took a position as a teller at the credit union. After eight months, he was promoted to the marketing department, where he has found his niche.

Chubbs described to the class the various types of jobs available at the credit union, including member services, loan officer, marketing specialist, information technology specialist, facilities management, and human resources.

He encouraged the students to “do something you love. Don’t be afraid to try different things, and if you don’t like something, move on until you find something that interests you and that you enjoy doing.”

Chubbs noted that the Jersey Shore Federal Credit Union has five different locations in southern New Jersey and about 50 employees. He said the credit union trains its employees in-house for its various positions.

We’re Hiring — Join Our Award-Winning Team of Dedicated Teachers and Staff

We’re hiring! ACS is seeking to fill a number of job openings for our award-winning team of dedicated teachers and staff. The positions we are seeking to fill include the Director of Development and Communication, part-time Counselors for our summer Cougar Camp, and teaching positions for the 2023-2024 school year. Please apply on the ACS website on the “Employment Opportunities” page or contact Human Resources Manager Mrs. Arzum Sanchez for more information at asanchez@acseht.org.

ACS requires its employees to be Christians, living their lives as Christian role models. Spiritual standards must be met and a background check is required.

The elementary through high school teaching positions are full-time, 10-month positions. The Cougar Camp Counselor position is part-time and is an immediate opening.  The Director of Development and Communication position is a full-time, 12-month position and is an immediate opening.

The positions that ACS is currently seeking to fill are as follows:

Director of Development and Communication – immediate opening
Lower Elementary Teacher
Upper Elementary Teacher
5th Grade Science & Math Teacher
Middle School Science Teacher
Summer Cougar Camp Counselor – part-time – immediate opening

CLICK HERE for more information on our Employment Opportunities page and to apply. Also, please SHARE our Facebook posts about these job openings with your contacts.

Registration Underway for our Awarding-Winning Summer Cougar Camp

For summer fun and learning, ACS is the place to be! Register today online for our award-winning Cougar Camp for children entering grades 1-7.

Cougar Camp will be open from June 26-August 25 and filled with lots of exciting activities, including weekly field trips and lake days, arts and crafts, STEM projects, Bible lessons, music, and more. Reasonable rates and daily or weekly options available.

Cougar Camp is located on our beautiful, 37-acre campus in Egg Harbor Township and our gym and indoor facilities are air-conditioned.

CLICK HERE to register.

 

 

Comedian Jeff Allen Headlines ACS Legacy Gala on May 12, Helps Raise Funds for Tuition Assistance Grant Fund

Comedian Jeff Allen entertained an audience of over 300 people as the headliner at Atlantic Christian School’s 7th Legacy Gala on Friday, May 12 at the Ocean City Tabernacle. The Gala and a Silent Auction held at the event, along with the May 16 Cougar Classic Golf Tournament, helped raise funds for the school’s Tuition Assistance Grant Fund. The events together netted $31,000 for the fund that since 2017 has provided tuition discounts to hundreds of qualified families in need to give them access to a Christian education for their children.

Allen began his career in 1978 and has entertained audiences around the world. He has appeared on America’s Got Talent, Comedy Central, Pureflix, Dry Bar Comedy, Apostles of Comedy, in films like “Thou Shalt Not Laugh,” and more. Allen’s second book, “Are We There Yet,” is due for release this coming September.

“Mr. Allen has been making people laugh for five decades and he certainly lived up to his reputation,” said Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen. “Many of us in the audience appreciated his humorous perspective on everyday life situations and we were laughing until we cried.”

After performing his comedy act, Allen was presented with a thank-you gift from ACS — an original drawing by ACS 11th grader Ryleigh Martin that illustrated Proverbs 16:24 –“Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and healing to the bones.”

The evening’s program began with 12th grader Daniella Ajayi welcoming the audience to the Gala and offering an invocation. Chief School Administrator Oblen then came forward for a special presentation to the Dye Family to thank them for partnering with ACS to create the Tuition Assistance Grant Fund in 2017. She presented the Dyes with a framed photo of the Ocean City Music Pier, where several ACS concerts were held in the 1990s when Bob Dye was the ACS choir director.

Oblen said that over the past six years, the fund has provided a tuition discount for nearly 580 students from over 430 new and returning families — giving out a total of nearly $940,000 in aid.  For the coming school year, Oblen said ACS expects to award at least $217,000 from the fund to benefit 142 students from 117 families.

“We are so thankful for the Dye family’s passion for Christian education and their decision to partner with our school to make this vital Tuition Assistance Fund a reality,” Oblen said. “We want to continue making ACS affordable for families who are seeking a Christian education for their children; that’s what you’re supporting by being here tonight.”

Following the presentation to the Dye family, the 23-member Middle School Worship Team, led by staff member Kelly Flynn, gave an uplifting performance of Cory Asbury’s “The Father’s House” and Hillsong Worship’s “New Wine.”

12th grader Cruz Lewis then introduced Allen, remarking that his life story was inspiring — not only for Allen’s outstanding accomplishments as a comedian, but for his courage to share his journey of transformation — from being an atheist and involved in drugs and alcohol — to becoming a born-again Christian.

During his remarks at the Gala, Allen touched on the experiences that led to his conversion to becoming a Christian in 1997 — describing it as a 7-year journey that began on the first day that he became sober.

“Our job is to show up and to seek, like Jesus says, just knock, and He’ll answer. It doesn’t mean today, tomorrow, or next week, but in time,” Allen said. He noted that the journey to faith will result “in a peace that you never knew could exist.”

After Allen’s performance, 12th grader Sam Glancey shared from his heart about how he has been blessed to be a beneficiary of the Tuition Assistance Grant Fund for the past six years. Lisa Dye, a member of the ACS faculty from 1997-2020, then spoke about the purpose of the fund and encouraged those in the audience to join her and her family in making a donation to the fund.

The Gala program concluded with 11th grader Ryleigh Martin giving a solo performance of “King of Kings” by Hillsong Worship and Event Coordinator Christian Delacruz delivering a benediction.

Prior to the Gala Program, sponsors and other supporters attended a delicious appetizer and dessert reception catered by Elite Fleet and had the opportunity to meet Jeff Allen and pose for a photograph. The Silent Auction, spearheaded by staff member PJ Santos, was also open during the reception and attracted friendly competition among more than 70 items up for bid.

Photo credits: John Loreaux

 

 

Dynamic Group of 94 Golfers Participate in 2023 Cougar Classic Golf Tournament

A dynamic group of 94 golfers turned out on May 16 to participate in the ACS 2023 Cougar Classic Golf Tournament at McCullough’s Emerald Golf Links in Egg Harbor Township. The tournament was paired with the Legacy Gala on May 12 to help raise funds for the school’s Tuition Assistance Grant Fund. The two events together netted $31,000 for the fund that gives families in need access to a Christian education for their children.

The golfers enjoyed a beautiful, sunny day throughout the Tournament, which was the school’s 18th golf fundraiser since 1999. The Tournament kicked off with an 8:30 a.m. shotgun start and concluded with lunch and an awards program at the Vagabond Restaurant located in the golf course clubhouse. The golfers included school parents, grandparents, alumni, alumni parents, business community members, and several ACS staff members and high school students.

As the golfers got ready for the tournament, school parent Jeff Montemurro donated his services as a physical therapist to provide athletic stretching to prevent injuries. The golfers then went on to compete in several contests at different holes throughout the day, including a popular putting contest, which resulted in a two-way tie that led to a putt-off. ACS grandparent Bob Conklin won the putting contest, besting James Andreacci from the OceanFirst Bank team. Conklin had traveled the furthest from Pennsylvania, with his wife, Mary, and two friends to participate in the Tournament.

During lunch, ACS alumnus David (DJ) Schrag (’88) recognized and thanked the golfers, sponsors, volunteers, and staff for helping make the Cougar Classic event a success.  Schrag, who is also an alumni parent and member of the school’s Board of Directors, also announced the golfers who excelled during the tournament and won various prizes. Schrag noted that the first place team included two alumni from the Class of 2019 — Ryan Lomangino and Solomon Griffith.  Lomangino also won first place for the longest drive. 2013 alumnus Ben Chapman was also on the foursome that placed third in the tournament.

Congratulations to the golfers who took home the top prizes:

1st place foursome: Greg Goodreds, Solomon Griffith, Ryan Lomangino, and Matt Warner
2nd place foursome: Bob McAndrew, Kelly McAndrew, Mike McAndrew, and Dace Phillips
3rd place foursome: Dan Carney, Drew Carney, Ben Chapman, and Seth Newell
Closest to the Pin, Hole #2: Jennifer DiMaio and Greg Goodreds
Longest Drive, Hole #14: Jennifer DiMaio and Ryan Lomangino
1st Place, Putting Contest: Bob Conklin

Thank you to our Golfer Prize Donors:

Aaron Bada’s Golf & Sport Performance Club
Ballamor Golf Club
Crab Trap Restaurant, Somers Point
Greate Bay Country Club
Gregory’s Restaurant & Bar, Somers Point
Harbor Pines Golf Club
Christian X. Loeb, AIF, CFP, LPL Financial
McCullough’s Emerald Golf Links
Texas Roadhouse, The Panetta Family
Twisted Dune Golf Club
Vagabond Restaurant, Egg Harbor Township

CLICK HERE for a full list of our 2023 Cougar Classic Sponsors.

 

 

Students Share Eye-Opening Experiences Serving on Missions Trips to Coatesville, the Bahamas, and South Africa Over Spring Break

Thirty-eight middle school and high school students served as the hands and feet of Jesus during three missions trips over Easter Break in Coatesville, Pennsylvania, the Bahamas, and South Africa. A number of the students and chaperones talked about their experiences and showed videos highlighting their trips during Upper School Chapel on May 25.

Several of the students who spoke described their experiences as “eye-opening,” including 7th grader Grace Lushina, who was one of 19 students who served in Coatesville. The team worked with underprivileged children who attend the Bridge Academy, an after-school program that meets in the Providence Church. They helped students with their homework, played with them, did some light cleaning, and helped cook dinner.

“The kids were so easy to work with and they always had smiles on their faces,” Lushina said. “I felt so blessed to be there and I hope to go back next year.”

A team of four high school students spent time in South Africa at an orphanage in Kwa Kwa founded by ACS parents Scott and Michelle Johnson. 12th graders Tommy Ellison, Moges Johnson, and Cruz Lewis went on the trip as part of their Senior Project, and also took with them 27 bags of clothes and supplies that they had collected for the orphans.

Tommy had the opportunity to play the guitar and lead worship with the children during daily chapel time at the orphanage’s school, including the song “Waymaker,” which he said was a favorite with the children, who joyously sang along with him. The team also performed skits about different Bible stories, including about Jesus’ death and resurrection. His parents, Tom and Polly Ellison, also traveled with the team to South Africa, serving as chaperones.

Cruz enjoyed playing with the children. “All they wanted was to be loved and it really touched my heart,” Cruz said. “I really encourage all of you to go on any missions trip that ACS offers — it will change your life.” Cruz admitted that being on stage to act in the skits pushed him out of his comfort zone, “but I did it because I wanted them to see Jesus through us.”

10th grader Sophia Johnson, who also went on the South Africa trip, shared the good news that during the trip 48 men, women, and children were baptized in a nearby river and that 200 children at the orphanage gave their life to Christ. Sophia also said her family is now allowing children to be adopted from the orphanage and that her family is adopting a five-year-old girl that will hopefully be coming to ACS next year.

12th grader Hunter Jorgenson was one of 19 students who served in the Bahamas, supporting the efforts of missionary Bob Mastin of the Caribbean Youth Network. Some of the team’s activities included helping with a youth soccer clinic, reading books and doing crafts with residents at a camp for the handicapped, picking up litter on a beach, and leading a Vacation Bible School at a Haitian church.

“I was really impacted by the people at the handicapped camp — seeing their joy in God alone when they had nothing else,” Hunter said. 11th grader Haven Sanchez talked about how the experience taught her an important lesson about contentment. “I saw people living in shacks with no air conditioning or plumbing, and yet everyone had a smile on their face even though they had very little,” Haven said. “I want to be as content in my life as they were and keep my focus on walking closer with the Lord.”

Missions Club Advisor Dave Genter closed out the chapel and encouraged ACS students to consider going on a missions trip next year. “As Christians, we are told to go into the world and preach the gospel and show God’s love to everyone we meet,” Genter said. “That’s what missions is all about.”

Since 2008, close to 390 students have now gone on ACS missions trips and learned first-hand about the joy of serving God by serving others.

 

 

ACS Honors Long-Time Athletic Director, PE Teacher, Coach Pam Hitchner Set to Retire in June

ACS Athletic Director, PE teacher, and coach Pam Hitchner is set to retire in June and ACS held a surprise Retirement Party in the ACS gym on April 30 in her honor, recognizing her 22 years of dedicated service. The 2023 school yearbook, soon to be released, has also been dedicated to Hitchner.

On the yearbook dedication page, Hitchner is praised for being a beacon of God’s love both in the classroom and on the field.  The dedication states in part — “Her devotion to athletics at ACS is unparalleled. She shows what it means to give your all in everything you do.”

Over 400 people attended the Retirement Party, which included a program where alumni, past and current parents and co-workers, and family members had the opportunity to express their gratitude for the positive impact that Hitchner has had on their lives.

Several speakers also praised Hitchner for creating a legacy of excellence in athletics at ACS. Some of the speakers included Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen, ACS parent and former Athletic Director Dan Noble, and alumnus Billy Robinson (’87), who made a 4-hour drive to attend the event from Tennessee, where he is head coach of the Men’s Basketball Team at Milligan College.

Following the speakers, an ensemble of alumni who had played on ACS teams that Hitchner had coached sang a beautiful rendition of “The Blessing” and Pastor Matt Maher of Landmark Church gave the closing prayer. ACS PE teacher and alumnus Kaylee Breunig (’12), who played under Coach Hitchner on the Varsity Girls’ Basketball Team, served as emcee for the program and had spearheaded the planning of the event.

Several speakers mentioned one of the favorite quotes Hitchner has used to motivate students and athletes to excel — “Tell your mind to tell your body what to do” — and stickers with this statement were on display on tables throughout the gym.  Some alumni who attended, including Robinson, proudly showed off their ACS letterman jackets that were worn by athletes back in the 1980s.

“As the writer Maya Angelou said — ‘I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.’ and you always made me feel welcomed and loved,” Robinson said in his remarks.

Noble, who served with Hitchner from 2010-2014 when she was a PE teacher and coach, credited Hitchner for “turning every athletic event at ACS into the place to be.”

Oblen, who has worked with Hitchner since 2012, pointed out that one of her admirable qualities has been the intentional way she loves and encourages others. “The way you exemplify Jesus with your words, conduct, and character — that is your legacy,” Oblen said.

“Your dedication as a coach and mentor has made a difference in the lives of our students,” Oblen said. She also noted that over 50 percent of the players on Hitchner’s Varsity Girls’ basketball teams went on to play basketball in college. Many other students and players have followed in her footsteps and become PE teachers and coaches, several even returning to serve at ACS.

Alumnus Candace Winkel Menno (’19), who played on several of Hitchner’s championship Varsity Girls’ Basketball Teams, described Hitchner’s  “unique ability to look at people, see their strengths, and draw them out.” ACS parent and alumnus Kim Clark Eaves (’87) concurred and said that when she started high school at ACS, Hitchner convinced her to play basketball, a sport she had never played before, “and I will be forever thankful for the way you loved me and nurtured me.”

At the conclusion of the program, Hitchner was presented with several gifts including a banner that will hang in the ACS gym recognizing Hitchner’s years of service at ACS.

“This is the nicest thing anyone has ever done for me,” Hitchner said. “The memories I have made here at ACS are a treasure in my life and I’m so grateful for the words of everyone here today, they are like showers of blessing.”

Hitchner first joined the ACS faculty as a PE teacher for a 4-year stint from 1985-1989 when ACS was located in Ocean City at the Ocean City Baptist Church. In 2005, Hitchner returned to ACS to be a PE teacher at the school’s Zion Road campus and in the 2017-2018 school year was promoted to Athletic Director.  She served as head coach of the ACS Varsity Girls Basketball Team for 11 years, retiring from coach in 2017.  Over her coaching career at ACS, she posted 252 wins and led the Varsity Girls’ Basketball team to six Tri-State Christian Atlantic Conference championships.

In the 2014-2015 season, she received national recognition when she was named Coach of the Year by the National Christian School Athletic Association. In February 2017, Pam was named the Varsity Girls’ Basketball Coach of the Year by the Tri-State Christian Athletic Conference and received a plaque from the conference congratulating her for her 25 years of dedication as a coach and mentor to hundreds of young women in southern New Jersey. Her alma mater, Summit College, formerly Baptist Bible College, has also inducted her in its Hall of Fame.

In addition to coaching at ACS, Hitchner also coached and taught PE at Cape Christian Academy and Cumberland Christian School.

Photo credits: Carole Karabashian and Mia Liggins

 

 

 

 

 

 

New Playground Opens for Early Education Center Students

Our new Early Education Center playground opened on May 24, just in time for Early Education Family Day, which was held just two days later. The preschool children have been excitedly exploring the new play equipment, set up in two areas.

Thank you to the donors who contributed nearly $20,000 to cover the cost of the equipment and to Ralph Clayton and his work crew who laid the mulch in the play areas.

Fundraising for the large playground set, made by Superior Play Systems, began in August of 2022 as part of a Special Projects Appeal campaign that was sent out to school families, alumni and their parents, local businesses, churches, and friends in the community.

“We thank God for the generous donors who responded to our appeal and stepped forward over the past eight months to fully fund the new playground equipment, which will be a blessing to our youngest students for years to come,” said Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen. “Our Early Education students now have their own playground with equipment that is made just for their size and it will be place filled with laughter, exploration, and creativity.”

Oblen said there will be more additions to the playground in the coming weeks, including sod and fencing with privacy screening.

 

 

ACS Receives Grants, Student Prizes from AtlantiCare to Support School Wellness Activities

Elementary students have new jump ropes, playground and soccer balls, hula hoops, toss and catch paddles and balls, and other play equipment thanks to a recent grant received from the AtlantiCare Healthy Schools, Healthy Children program. The program also recently rewarded elementary students who participated in a 4-week Walking Challenge.

The AtlantiCare grant provided $750 in funding to purchase new equipment for organized play during recess for students in kindergarten to the 5th grade. The new equipment will also be used by students in the Cougar Camp summer program. ACS was one of 63 public and non-public schools in southern New Jersey — from elementary to high school — that received grant funding this year from AtlantiCare.

Mrs. Hockenberry’s 2B class received fidget bracelets for walking 290 minutes in April in AtlantiCare’s 4-week Walking Challenge.

AtlantiCare congratulated the students in 10 elementary classes who, at various times during the school year, participated in a 4-week Walking Challenge and collectively racked up a total of 2,671 minutes of walking. This week, each student in the participating classes received a prize for their efforts, including water pouches, fidget bracelets, and stickers.

“We are very grateful to the AtlantiCare Healthy Schools, Healthy Children program for helping support our efforts to promote the health and wellness of our students,” said Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen.  “Spending time outdoors during recess and walking together as a class are two great ways for our younger students to get healthy exercise and studies show that it helps our students’ energy and creativity in the classroom.”

The 4-week Walking Challenge was among a number of health and wellness activities that ACS students participated in throughout the school year. ACS also recently applied for and was approved to receive an additional year-end grant of $300 from AtlantiCare that will support health and wellness initiatives in the next school year.

 

 

ACS Offering Summer Sports Camps, STEAM Workshops Starting in July

ACS is offering six sports camps and two STEAM workshops this summer. Co-ed Basketball Camps, led by Coaches Joshua Clark and Dan Vasquez, will be offered for seven weeks starting on July 10, with separate sessions for 3rd-5th graders and 6th-8th graders.  Faculty member Rhapsody Hahn-Chaney will be leading two workshops — Computer Programming and Design from July 10-14 and Costume Design from August 14-18.

Other summer camps being offered in July and August are Gymnastics Camp, led by Blake’s Gymnastics; two Softball Camps, led by DJ Hitchner and Jen Domsic; and Soccer Camp, led by Prestige Soccer.

Register online today for one or more camps that will be sure to help your children expand their knowledge and skills over the summer months.

The Summer Camp schedule is below and is being sent home with students this week. The camps are open to ACS and non-ACS students.

CLICK HERE to register. Registration will open on Friday, June 2.

 

 

Community Farmers Market Coming Again This Summer to ACS Campus in July and August

A Community Farmers Market will be held again this summer on the campus of Atlantic Christian School, featuring a variety of local farmers, food vendors, artists, and crafters. The market will be open on Saturdays in July and August from 9 a.m. to noon.

ACS first launched a Community Farmers Market on its campus last summer that attracted close to 1,000 visitors and featured 53 different vendors over the course of the summer. This coming summer, the market is being run by a local business — Just Organics Marketplace and the Honey Tree — instead of ACS staff.

“We’re very excited that a local business has stepped up to run the Farmers Market this summer on our campus,” said Carole Karabashian, ACS Director of Development and Communication.  “This market is a blessing to families in and around Egg Harbor Township and we are certain that even more people will come out to buy fresh produce and other items.”

Karabashian said the ACS Garden Club also plans to have a table at the Farmers Market to sell produce from the school garden. ACS band students have also been invited to perform during on one of the market dates.

Anyone interested in being a vendor can register at http://the honeytree.net or CLICK HERE to register. For more information, please send an email to:  wellness@thehoneytree.net.

 

Middle School Servant’s Heart Club Makes Snack Bags for Local Nonprofit Helping Those Struggling With Addiction

The Middle School Servant’s Heart Club packed 53 bags of snacks on May 25 to donate to Angels in Motion (AIM), a local nonprofit. The snack bags, called Blessing Bags by AIM, will be distributed to individuals in Atlantic City who are struggling with addiction.

The 19 students in the club, which has been meeting monthly on Thursdays during 8th period, have been working on this good will project for several months, according to club advisor Linda Stiteler. The project began with a bake sale in the winter that raised $300. These funds were then used to buy a variety of snacks for the Blessing Bags, Stiteler said.

The students also wrote and decorated encouraging messages on paper cards that were placed in the Blessing Bags along with an AIM list of resources that provide lifesaving treatment and services.

“This project has helped our students become more aware of people who are in need right here in our local community,” Stiteler said. “We are very happy to be able to help AIM and support the important work they are doing ministering to people suffering with the disease of addiction.”

According to their Facebook page, AIM distributes upwards of 100 Blessing Bags weekly “and the Blessing Bags always make people smile.” Some of the food items in the bags included Pop-tarts, applesauce, cookies, chips, Welch’s fruit snacks, and a water bottle.

The middle school club members who participated in packing the bags were: Lily Boyle, Malani Christmon, Natalia Flores, Mia Gaffney, Heather Milstead, Alayna O’Donoghue, Sophia Rose, Isabella Saad, and Kalee Tardif. Other members of the club are: Caelyn Domsic, Makenzie Fresh, Grace Lushina, Ja’Niyah Martin, Julia Morris, Solia Pecou, Nina Purdy, Chelsie Richards, Zy’Raina Rogers, and Haley Schnecker.

Classroom Spotlight: 7th Graders Study Barn Owls, Dissect Owl Pellets

The 7th grade students in Mrs. Kirchhoff’s middle school science class learned about barn owls and their habitat as part of a unit on ecosystems in late April and early May. The project included dissecting owl pellets and identifying their contents, which included the skeletal remains of birds, voles, and moles.

“The students learned that God has provided the barn owl with a unique eating process that protects them from harm when they eat their prey,” Kirchhoff said. She explained that after an owl eats a bird or small rodent it spits out the fur and bones, which its body would not be able to digest. The expelled fur and bones form into an egg-shaped pellet about 2-4 inches in length.

The students began the 3-week, in-class project by creating a trophic pyramid, completing a raptor food web, and learning about the barn owl’s diet. Each student completed a barn owl anatomy activity, dissected an owl pellet, and organized skeletal data.

“During the dissection process, the students found all the bones for a vole and were able to glue the parts back together to make a vole skeleton,” Kirchhoff said. “This was a very interesting project and at first, some students were a little squeamish, but then they really got excited as they found various skeletal remains and were able to put a whole vole skeleton together.”

 

Family and Bike Day — Fun for Early Education Center Students, Families

Some 200 parents and other family members turned out for our 2nd annual Early Education Family and Bike Day on May 26 on the ACS campus. There was lots of cheering, laughter, smiles, and hugs as our preschool students rode their bicycles, tricycles, and scooters and participated in other fun group activities.

The students and their families moved around the campus throughout the morning for water play, including a relay race, jumping in Bounce Houses, drawing creative art with colored chalk on the outdoor basketball court, playing corn hole, and climbing on our new play equipment in the Early Education playground.

The families, students, and staff enjoyed warm, sunny weather and the day’s activities concluded with a lunch of grilled hamburgers and hot dogs.

May 19 Spring Concert Features 4th-12th Grade Students in Three ACS Bands, Vocal Ensemble, Wind Ensemble

Hundreds of family members and friends filled the ACS gym the evening of May 19 to enjoy our uplifting 4th-12th Grade Spring Band and Choral Concert. The concert featured some 150 students playing instruments and singing as part of our 4th and 5th Grade Bands, 6th-7th Grade Vocal Ensemble, 6th-7th Grade Concert Band, and 8th-12th Grade Wind Ensemble.

A number of students were also featured performers — 4th grader Erik Macpherson on the flute and 5th graders Ella Henigan, Aria Housel, and Isabelle Kiefer on the violin.

4th grader Caitlin Doucett and 5th grader Anthony Ortez served as narrators, introducing the songs and how they were linked to the Creation story, including the creation of light, the sky, dry land, the sun and other constellations, living creatures, and man.

Congratulations to Music Director Tim Rosie and Vocal Ensemble Director Julie Zimmer for helping our students discover and develop their God-given musical talents.

 

Annual Spring Art Show Opened May 19, 1st-12th Grade Art on Display to End of School Year

Our annual Spring Art Show opened on May 19 concurrent with our 4th-12th Grade Spring Band and Choral Concert. Students, family members, and friends enjoyed walking the first floor hallways before and after the concert to view paintings, sculptures, collages, scratch art, origami, and other artwork created by students from the 1st-12th grades that was on display on the hallway walls.

High school artwork that had competed in the recent Atlantic County Teen Arts Festival was also on display in the gym. Artwork in the Art Show will remain on display until the end of the school year.

During the concert, Elementary Principal Gail Alford recognized and thanked art teacher Sherry Mirakian for putting together an outstanding art show. She also announced that Mirakian is retiring after leading the ACS Art Department since 2017. Prior to coming to ACS, Mirakian taught art for 31 years at the William Davies Middle School in Mays Landing.

 

 

Cheer Team Named National Champion 2nd Consecutive Year in The ONE Varsity Intermediate School Cheer Division

The ACS Varsity Cheerleading Team has been named the 2023 National Champion in The ONE Varsity Intermediate School Cheer Division, in an announcement released on May 20. This is the second consecutive year that the ACS Cheer Team has received this prestigious title, making school history once again.

A panel of judges chose the National 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 other teams who had competed at regional competitions this spring. The ACS Cheer Team had won first place in their category at The ONE Cheer and Dance Finals held April 1-2 in Virginia Beach, Virginia. In both the April and Finals rounds of competition this spring, the scoring was based on execution, technique and degree of difficulty, as well as the ability to inspire a crowd.

“The moment we won, the only thought running through my head was how much I love this team and how we have become a family,” said head coach Morgan Gibson. “To see the dedication, hard work, and long hours of practice from each team member come to fruition in the form of a national championship is amazing and I want to commend my assistant coach, Michelle Wheeler, and each team member for their efforts.”

Congratulations to the members of the 2023 Cheer Team: Ashlee Alford, Ava Barberio, Annalena DiMaio, Rebecca DeMaio, April Eaves, Gianna Flynn, Mackenzie Flynn, Makenzie Fresh, Emily Johnson, Grace Johnson, Abigail Kelley, Ava Lombardi Autumn Loo, Kiara Loo, Tara McCorkle, Heather Milstead, Mia Morales, Madeline Neill, Chelsie Richards, Haven Sanchez, and Makayla Tomlinson. The manager is Jadelyn Maurer.

 

ACS Middle School, High School Athletes Sweep Conference Track Meet

The first place High School Girls Track Team.

Ninety middle school and high school students competed in the Tri-State Christian Athletic Conference Track Meet on May 11 and swept the event — with all four ACS teams finishing in first place ahead of teams from five other regional Christian schools.

The athletes and several hundred spectators enjoyed warm, sunny skies for the day-long event, which ACS hosted on its campus for the 16th year.  The High School Girls won 9 first place medals and had the highest number of points (63) and the High School Boys placed first with 53 points and also won 9 first place medals. The Middle School Boys placed first with 53 points and won 8 first place medals and the Middle School Girls won first place with 46 points and received 6 first place medals.

“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.  The other schools participating in the meet were: Ambassador Christian Academy, Calvary Christian Academy, Gloucester County Christian School, King’s Christian School, and The Pilgrim Academy.

Several athletes set new school records:

  • 12th grader Cruz Lewis set an ACS high school boys and TSCAC record in the 200 meter, running 23.3 seconds, and also set an ACS and TSCAC record in the 400 meter, running it in 52.7 seconds.
  • In the 4 x 100 high school boys relay, the team of 11th grader Noah Gibbs, 12th grader Sam Glancey, 12th grader Cruz Lewis, and 11th grader Malachi Vazquez set a new record with a time of 47.1 seconds.
  • In the 4 x 400 high school boys relay, the team of 10th grader Charlie Costello, 12th grader Tommy Ellison, 12th grader Sam Glancey, and 12th grader Cruz Lewis set a record with a time of 4:02.3
  • 8th grader Ethan Costello set an ACS middle school and TSCAC record in the 400 meter, running it in 58 seconds. He also set a  middle school boys record in the mile, running a 5:12.
  • In the 4 x 100 middle school boys relay, the 8th grade team of Ethan Costello, Cylas Finx, Jason Kelley, and Justice Settles set an ACS school and TSCAC record with a time of 52.3 seconds.
  • In the 4 x 400 middle school boys relay, a team of 8th grader Ethan Costello, 8th grader Jason Kelly, 8th grader Garrett Martin, and 7th grader Christian Pineo set a record with a time of 4:18.3.
  • 8th grader Kiara Loo set the middle school girls 400-meter record with a time of 1:06.5, which also tied the high school girls record.

A large volunteer team of students, alumni, and parents helped manage the 23 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 teachers Kaylee Breunig and Josh Clark; faculty member Dan Vazquez; alumni parent Larry Martin and ACS parent Charlie Costello; substitute teacher Mike Bohs; 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.

 

 

 

 

ACS Spirit Day at Texas Roadhouse — Friday, May 26

Join us for ACS Spirit Day at Texas Roadhouse in Egg Harbor Township on Friday, May 26 from 4:00-10:30 p.m. This will be our last Spirit Day of the school year. Come out with your family and friends and enjoy hand-cut steaks, fall-off-the-bone ribs, made-from-scratch sides, and fresh-baked bread and help raise funds for ACS Athletics.

The restaurant is located at 6801 E. Black Horse Pike in Egg Harbor Township.

Please mention “Atlantic Christian School” when you order and 10% of your bill will benefit ACS Athletics.

Hope to see you there!

 

ACS Gathers Outdoors Around Track to Mark National Day of Prayer on May 4

Students, teachers, and staff from preschool to the 12th grade went outdoors and circled the ACS track the morning of May 4 for a special time of all-school prayer and worship to mark the 2023 National Day of Prayer.

Various students and staff led prayer, seeking God’s blessing, guidance and protection for our government and its leaders, for the church community, families, and business leaders, and for those serving in the media, the military, and education.

Elementary Principal and Early Education Director Gail Alford opened the gathering with prayer, followed by staff member Kelly Flynn, who led a time of worship.

Six students, selected by their Principals, then offered various prayers — 5th graders Raquel Crespo and Kayden O’Brien; 8th graders Kendall Bouchard and Josiah Christmon; and 12th graders Robbie Barberio and Moges Johnson.

Upper School Principal Meg McHale shared the theme verse of this year’s National Day of Prayer, taken from James 5:16b —  “The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much” — and then offered the closing prayer.

 

Athletes, Family Members Honored at Varsity Baseball, Softball Senior Day May 8

ACS honored three senior players on the Varsity Boys Baseball Team and four senior players and the team manager on the Varsity Girls Softball Team and their parents in a special Senior Day ceremony on May 8. The ceremony was held prior to the start of the home games against American Christian School.

Athletic Director Pam Hitchner introduced the team members and read notes of special thanks to each senior, written by Varsity Boys Baseball Head Coach Carl Phillips and Varsity Girls Softball Head Coach Dara Kimmerley.

The Senior Boys honored were: Robbie Barberio (3rd base), Cruz Lewis (centerfield), and Caleb Vogel (1st/2nd base). All three have been strong hitters and at the top of the lineup all season. Cruz has also made his mark at stealing bases.

The Varsity Boys’ went on to beat American Christian 15-0 in that May 8 game. As of May 22, the Varsity Boys are 9-5 overall and in 3rd place in the Tri-State Christian Athletic Conference (TSCAC) with a 6-3 record.

The Senior Girls honored were: Reyna Lewis (manager), Alli Lushina (1st base), Paige Noble (3rd base), Alli Schlundt (2nd base), and Summer Scott (outfield). The Lady Cougars also beat American Christian 19-4 in their May 8 game. As of May 22, the Lady Cougars are 11-2 overall, and 7-1 in the TSCAC, ranked in 2nd place.

Thank you, seniors, and your families, for the important contributions you have made to ACS Athletics during your high school years. You will be missed!

Four ACS Students Selected, Performed in South Jersey Elementary Honor Band

Congratulations to four ACS band students who were selected to the South Jersey Elementary Honor Band that performed on April 29 at Absegami High School. The four students selected were, from left: Chase Wilkinson, Jennyfer Loiaza-Riveros, Gabrielle DiSciascio, and Findley Maxwell.

The students were nominated in January to be considered for the Honor Band by Music Director Tim Rosie. The South Jersey Band and Orchestra Director’s Association, which oversees the Honor Band, received 530 nominations of students from public and private schools across southern New Jersey.

The four ACS students were among 260 students who were selected to be in the Honor Band and were placed in one of four performing groups that rehearsed during the morning of April 29 and then performed a 20-minute concert in the afternoon. Music Director Rosie accompanied the students to the event.

5th grader Gabrielle DiSciascio and 6th grader Chase Wilkson performed on the trumpet, 6th grader Findley Maxwell performed on the clarinet, and 6th grader Jennyfer Loiaza-Riveros played the flute.