Post Tagged with: "Atlantic County"

New GEMS Elective Class Gives Middle School Girls Opportunity to Develop Confidence, Poise, and Personal Growth

A new elective class offered this spring semester — called GEMS — gave middle school girls an opportunity to gain confidence and poise as young ladies, focusing on developing their beauty on the outside and the inside. During the final day of the twice-weekly class on June 4, the students received special “Diamond” and “Sapphire” certificates for completing the course, which was developed by Mrs. Elaine Santo, a retired teacher and former Miss Delaware.

“I loved calling these girls God’s gems because they are so very precious and valuable in God’s sight,” Santo said.  “Our outward beauty comes from the inside and we spent time in class learning about what God’s Word says about beauty and memorizing Bible verses that provide insight on how we should think, speak, act, and react.” At the end of every class, Santo said she made sure to remind her students to “be the best that you can be.”

GEMS is an acronym that stands for “Girls Empowered for the Master’s Service” and this is the first time that Santo has presented her unique program in a school setting. She developed the curriculum about a dozen years ago at the request of several parents at Hammonton Assembly of God, where she attended at the time.  The first class she held in the church was so well-received that doors opened for her to expand it into a one-day conference in 2012. Since then, she has held a number of conferences throughout South Jersey.

Santo said GEMS is based on Proverbs 31:10-31, which describes the characteristics of a virtuous woman. She is now putting the finishing touches on her GEMS program, including creating teacher and student manuals and resources, such as PowerPoints and games, to be able to publish the curriculum and reach more students in schools and churches across the country.

Santo has deep roots in education. She served as a public school teacher for 21 years, teaching 8th grade math in the Galloway Middle School and special education at the Belhaven Middle School in Linwood. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in K-12 education and special education, a Master’s in educational leadership, and is certified to be a principal/supervisor.

Her passion for teaching young women to be confident and look their best comes from her own life experience. While attending the University of Delaware, she entered the Miss Delaware scholarship pageant in 1975 and won. The next year she competed in the Miss America pageant.

“Competing in the pageants is where I learned confidence, poise, and etiquette,” Santo said. “I also developed the ability to speak to large groups of people without thinking twice, and I have continued to draw upon all those skills throughout my life.”  Santo said the knowledge and experience she gained through her pageant days, combined with her love for the Lord and the wisdom found in God’s Word, enabled her to develop the GEMS program.

Santo now lives in Smithville and has two children. Her daughter, Gina Wilson, is the high school math teacher at ACS and her son, Frank Santo, is a Galloway Township Councilman. In addition to teaching her GEMS program, Santo serves in full-time ministry as the New Jersey State Representative for Aglow International.

Congratulations, Class of 2021!

Eighteen seniors processed into the school’s gymnasium on June 4 to receive their diplomas from Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen and Board of Directors’ Chair Les Tomlinson and to thank their teachers and family members for their guidance and support.

Mrs. Oblen opened the program by congratulating the students for making it through a year that has been “a faith walk in which none of us knew what was in store.” Oblen encouraged the students to let God be their guide as they step forward into the future. “It is my prayer that the Lord will fill you with faith, hope, love, and wisdom as you serve Him with the gifts and talents that He has given each of you,” Oblen said.

Upper School Principal Meg McHale gave the closing remarks, noting that the Class of 2021 had learned patience and resilience, “qualities that you will need as you move forward into the next stage of your lives.” She also announced that the students, most of who will be attending college in the fall, had received over $303,000 in scholarships after being offered over $1,027,000 from the various schools to which they applied. Two students — Jeremiah Engle and Joshua Jacoby — will be serving in the U.S. military.

Featured student speakers at Commencement — From left, Valedictorian Sydney Pearson, Salutatorian Kami DeNick, and Chloe Vogel, who delivered the Christian Character Address.

Salutatorian Kami DeNick, 17, of Mays Landing, thanked the administration, faculty, and staff for working hard to make the school year as normal as possible.  “This past year was full of uncertainties, but through it all, the Lord gave us so many blessings,” DeNick said. She encouraged her fellow classmates from Deuteronomy 31:8, noting that as they step into the next chapter of their lives, “know that the Lord is going before us; He is writing our next chapter so we don’t need to be afraid.” DeNick was one of five students in the class who had attended ACS since kindergarten. She will be attending Liberty University in the fall.

Valedictorian Sydney Pearson, 18, of Egg Harbor Township, thanked the teachers for building relationships with their students that have helped guide them through their high school years. “You have had a forever impact on our lives,” Pearson said. “You have trained us how to think for ourselves and how to form our own opinions on what we personally believe instead of conforming to the world.” Pearson challenged her fellow graduates and those listening in the audience to keep their focus and attention on God and to strive to glorify Him in everything they do. “Don’t lose track of who you are in the Lord; keep Christ at the center of your mind no matter where life takes you,” Pearson said. Pearson also attended ACS since kindergarten. She will be attending Stockton University in the fall to pursue a degree in nursing.

Commencement keynote speaker Pastor Walter Nistorenko

Pastor Walter Nistorenko, lead pastor at Abundant Life Church in Seaville, delivered the commencement keynote address, and encouraged the graduates to discover and understand their identity and purpose in God.  “Success in life is not about making money or achieving fame,” Nistorenko said. “When you discover the calling that God has for you — your God-given purpose — you will come alive and will be able to establish a legacy for you and your children.”

Senior Rebekah Kimmerley performed “My Wish,” accompanied by Mrs. Jane Zigner.

Other graduates who participated in the program were Chloe Vogel, who gave the Christian character address, and Rebekah Kimmerley, who sang an uplifting rendition of “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts. Kimmerley has been a member of the High School Praise and Worship team that has led worship time during the weekly 6th-12th grade chapel. Vogel and Kimmerley will be attending Atlantic Cape Community College in the fall and plan to pursue careers in education.

CLICK HERE for a photo gallery of Commencement 2021 on the ACS website. Additional photos, taken by photographer John Loreaux, can be viewed and purchased at www.loreaux.zenfolio.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

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

Elementary students in the 1st-5th grades who achieved Highest Honors in academics were recognized and received certificates at the June 9 Awards Chapel.

Year-end Awards Chapels on June 9 and 11 recognized students in grades 1-5 and in grades 6, 7, 9, 10, and 11 for their hard work and accomplishments in their academic subjects as well as in the areas of physical fitness, service, citizenship, and demonstrating Christian character. Principals and teachers alike remarked that while this year was one of growth, it was also about learning to persevere and thrive in the face of challenges and adversity.

Elementary Principal Gail Alford and Upper School Principal Meg McHale both reflected in their chapel remarks on this year’s theme verse from 1 Corinthians 16:13 — to be on your guard, to stand firm in the faith, and be courageous and strong.   “It is my hope that in the times you need to stand firm you will remember to suit up with your belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, your feet fitted with the gospel of peace, your shield of faith, your helmet of salvation and your sword of faith.” Alford said. “With the armor God there is nothing that can stand against you.”

At the Elementary Awards Chapel, students were honored for making the Honor Roll and for significant achievement in Music, Art, Physical Fitness, Spanish, and Computer Science. Each classroom teacher also recognized individual students for highest academic average, most improved, and exemplifying Christian character with their fellow classmates. Elementary Principal Gail Alford praised the students for their hard work and dedication.

At the Middle School/High School Awards Chapel, a quartet of students from the Praise and Worship Team — Elizabeth Alford, Tommy Ellison, Evangelina Kim, and Jada Logan — led the worship time singing “The Blessing” by Kari Jobe, Cody Carnes and Elevation Music.

Upper School Principal Meg McHale gave the devotional, sharing with students that no one can live a perfect life, that mistakes and bad decisions are inevitable, but that standing firm in the faith also means to be willing to acknowledge your mistakes, ask forgiveness from God, and move forward committed to change and do better.

After the devotional, students were recognized for various achievements, including  achieving the highest academic average in their grade and in individual subjects, the Presidential Fitness Awards, and the Citizenship and COMPASS Awards.

 

CLICK HERE to see a photo gallery of the Elementary Honors Chapel.

CLICK HERE to see a photo gallery of the Middle School/High School Honors Chapel.

ACS Prays for God’s Direction and Guidance for 8th Grade Students at Blessing Ceremony

ACS celebrated the accomplishments and prayed for God’s direction and guidance for twenty-seven 8th grade students at a “Blessing Ceremony” on Thursday, June 10 in the school’s gymnasium.

The ceremony began with Seth Phillips, Ava Nixon, and Adam Schlundt leading the pledges to the American flag, the Christian flag, and the Bible. Following prayer by Isabell Alford, ACS senior and valedictorian of the Class of 2021, Sydney Pearson, gave a challenge to the class, giving them specific tips on ways they can grower stronger in their Christian faith.

Before the presentation of scholarships and awards by Upper School Principal Meg McHale and Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen, middle school math teacher George Dixon and Bible teacher Grant Miller shared advice and heartfelt farewells to the class. A number of students were recognized for their accomplishments in academics, citizenship, community service, and displaying exemplary Christian character. Athletic Director Pam Hitchner presented a number of students with Presidential Fitness Awards.

On behalf of the Parent Teacher Fellowship, PTF President Terry Vogel presented a devotional and a gift card to 4 students who had attended ACS since kindergarten — Rebecca DiMaio, Aine Dorsey, Seth Phillips, and Makayla Tomlinson. Mrs. Vogel said the gifts were a way of saying thank you to the families who had made a long-term commitment to Christian education.

After students received their awards and certificates of completion, a quarter of high school students on the Praise and Worship team delivered a powerful rendition of “The Blessing,” by Kari Jobe, Cody Carnes and Elevation Music.  Members of the Middle School faculty then began a new tradition by coming forward to stand among the students where they were seated on stage to prayer over them and ask for God’s blessing and protection. Faculty member Amy Parker led the faculty prayer of blessing. After remarks from Upper School Principal Meg McHale, 8th grader Rebecca DiMaio closed the ceremony in prayer.

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

  • Academic Subject Awards for Highest Average — Isabell Alford in PE and Bible; Charlie Costello in PE; Sophia Johnson in Bible, Honors Language Arts, Integrated Science, Social Studies, and Algebra 1; Justin Schlundt in Language; Taylor Sutton in Bible, Integrated Science, and Social Studies; and Mikayla Tomlinson in Language Arts and Pre Algebra.
  • Highest Honors, earning a 3.8 or higher GPA — Isabell Alford, Alexander Deliivanov, Aine Dorsey, Sophia Johnson, Alek Stein, and Taylor Sutton
  • High Honors, earning a 3.5-3.79 GPA — CJ Ford and Ava Nixon
  • Citizenship Award, for service to others and to the school — Isabell Alford
  • COMPASS Award, in recognition of outstanding character and Christian testimony — Justin Schlundt and Makayla Tomlinson
  • Cougar Award, given to a boy and girl student who has demonstrated Christian character, leadership, and responsibility in athletics — Isabell Alford and Charlie Costello
  • Parent Teacher Fellowship Scholarship, for the best essays on what Jesus says about serving others and how their experiences at ACS have incorporated service — Taylor Sutton, 1st place; Rebecaa DiMaio and Makayla Tomlinson tied for 2nd place

CLICK HERE to see a photo gallery of the 8th Grade Blessing Ceremony.

New Beginnings – PreK4, K Students Promoted at June Programs

Hundreds of family members, friends, faculty, and staff gathered to celebrate a great year of learning and growing at Promotion Programs for Kindergarten on June 8 and for the PreK4 students on June 9. The programs, filled with smiles and songs, allowed students to demonstrate their accomplishments and praise God for His faithfulness throughout the school year.

The lively Kindergarten Graduation program was filled with prayers, songs, skits, smiles and hugs. The students delighted the audience with a series of songs that told the story of a day in the life of kindergarten.  Early Education Director and Elementary Principal Gail Alford then presided over the presentation of diplomas to 39 kindergarten students, who proudly posed with their white graduation caps.

Kindergarten teachers Julie Reilly and Ashley Vaccaro presented their students with special awards for achievement in science, math, language, penmanship, ible, Bible verse memorization, Christian character, and Most Improved.  They’re ready for first grade!

At the Early Education Promotion Program on June 9, 41 PreK4 students received diplomas and warm hugs from their teachers, Teresa Bird and Jennifer Kelley.  Family members and friends smiled and clapped along as each of the classes, from Infants to PreK4, performed songs they had learned this past year. Congratulations and we look forward to seeing you in Kindergarten!

CLICK HERE to see a photo gallery of the Kindergarten Graduation.

CLICK HERE to see a photo gallery of the Early Education Promotion Program.

Classroom Cameo — 5th Grade Students Have a Blast With Volcano Project

During the last week of school, the students in Mrs. Kiefer’s 5th grade class researched famous volcanos and then did a class project constructing mini-replicas out of recycled materials. The final step of the project was to simulate a volcanic eruption, and according to Mrs. Kiefer — “It was a blast.”

The students worked in teams of 3 and 4 to construct their volcanos, using completed workbooks and worksheets as the base material.  “Allowing the students to tear up their spelling workbooks and make something out of their old work was very gratifying,” Kiefer said. All items used for the project were recycled materials.

The students use a paper mache solution to cover their volcano structures and then painted them various earth-tone colors to look like a volcanos.

On June 10, the final day of the project, the students enjoyed making their volcanos erupt by combining baking soda, vinegar, dish soap and red dye.

Students Enjoy Planting Herbs, Vegetables in School Garden, Learn about Composting in After-School Garden Club

Students in the after-school Garden Club were busy in the school garden and greenhouse this spring, prepping the raised beds, planting herbs and vegetables, and learning how to compost. A donation of eco-soil from the Atlantic County Utilities Authority and seeds from ACE Hardware in Egg Harbor Township helped kick-start the planting season.

“We are very grateful to the ACUA and ACE Hardware for showing their support for our school garden and greenhouse program,” said 4th grade teacher Eric Tardif, who is co-advisor of the Garden Club along with 4th grade teacher Rebecca Jackson. The 20 students in the Garden Club began meeting on April 15 and met every Thursday through June 10.

The ACUA donated and delivered 10 cubic yards of eco-soil on April 21 and the students got to work adding the new soil into the eight raised beds the next day. In the greenhouse, the students planted a number of herbs in baskets and starter trays, including basil, lavender, oregano, peppermint, and rosemary, and then replanted the young plants in the raised beds.

On April 29, the students put together a new compost bin and learned about composting. Mrs. Jackson, who has a compost bin for her own home garden, talked about what food scraps and other materials contribute to the decomposition process in a compost bin. As a snack, the students ate apples and put the cores into the compost bin.

In addition to planting herbs, the students have planted beets, carrots, green beans, radishes, spinach, squash, and tomatoes.  The first harvesting experience came on June 10, when the students picked radishes and enjoyed tasting them and taking some home to their families.

Tardif said activity in the school garden will continue through the summer with participation by students in the summer Cougar Camp program.

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

High school and middle school students who played on an ACS sports team during the 2020-2021 school year received recognition for their participation, leadership, and athletic abilities at Athletic Awards Programs on May 28 and June 7.

At the High School Athletics Awards event on May 28, it was a time to celebrate and reflect on a distinguished year of achievement. In the fall sports season, the Varsity Girls’ Soccer team won the Tri-State Christian Athletic Championship for the fifth year in a row and senior Chloe Vogel was named the conference MVP for the second consecutive year. Varsity Girls’ Soccer Coach Carly Witherow was named TSCAC Coach of the Year for the second year in a row. The Varsity Boys’ Soccer team finished the regular season in first place, the first time since 2012, but after playoff competition ended the season in third place.

In the winter season of Varsity Basketball, both the Boys’ and Girls’ teams earned the TSCAC Championship Title. The Varsity Boys’ team, under the experienced leadership of senior point guard Malachi Green, beat the first place undefeated team, King’s Christian School, in an exciting and memorable championship game. During the Awards Program, Hitchner announced that Green will be attending Middlesex College in the fall to play basketball and he signed his Letter of Intent during the program.

Senior Malachi Brown signing his Letter of Intent to play basketball in the fall at Middlesex College.

The Varsity Girls’ Basketball team was undefeated, finishing in first place in the regular season and achieving the conference title. Senior Cristen Winkel was name the TSCAC Girls’ Basketball MVP.  During the season, co-captain Sydney Pearson got her 1,000th career point and co-captain Olivia Chapman pulled down 500 career rebounds. The ACS girls’ and boys’ teams took first place in the TSCAC track meet. The spring Baseball/Softball season had not yet concluded, but Hitchner congratulated both teams for making it into the final TSCAC championship games to be held just days after the awards program.

11th grader Aaron Glancey and 12th grader Chloe Vogel were chosen by the Athletic Department to be the recipients of the 2021 Billy Robinson Award that recognizes one high school boy and one high school girl for significant achievement, Christian testimony, and athletic ability. Joshua Jacoby, Shelby Einwechter, and Sydney Pearson  received the Cougar Award, which is given to seniors who have demonstrated outstanding Christian character, leadership, responsibility, and commitment in the area of athletics.

During the program, the head coaches of the various teams presented certificates and special awards to their players, including the Coach’s Award, Most Valuable Player, and Most Improved Player. The coaches participating in the program were: girls’ soccer — Carly Witherow; girls’ basketball — Kaylee Breunig and Dara Kimmerley; boys’ soccer — Andres Tortola; boys’ basketball — Dan Carney; boys’ baseball — Gus Casey; and girls’ softball — Dara Kimmerley. Cheer team co-coach Kelly Flynn presented a Varsity letter and cheer pin to high school members of the squad. Hitchner also recognized senior Shelby Einwechter for winning first place in the TSCAC Golf Tournament on May 19, with a score of 41 (+7).

At the Middle School Athletic Awards program on June 7, students who participated in soccer, basketball, baseball, softball, and cheer were recognized and honored. Athletic Director Pam Hitchner thanked the coaches for an outstanding year in spite of challenges dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic. There was no conference competition during the soccer and basketball seasons within the Atlantic Cape Junior High League, of which ACS is a member. But in non-conference play, the Middle School Girls’ soccer team lost just one game and the Girls’ basketball team went undefeated. The Middle School Boys’ Soccer team had an undefeated season and the Boys’ Basketball team had an 11-2 winning season. The Middle School boys’ and girls’ track teams also came in first place in the TSCAC track meet.

In the spring, Atlantic Cape League competition resumed for the Middle School Baseball and Softball seasons, with all league schools playing in one bracket. The MS Boys’ Baseball team and the MS Girls’ Softball team each lost just one game during the season and both finished in 2nd place in the league.

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

 

Mental Health Awareness Poster Created by 11th Grader Amber Ramos Selected as Southern Region Winner in Statewide Contest

ACS 11th grader Amber Ramos, right, with Technology teacher Rhapsody Hahn-Chaney in the ACS computer lab with Amber’s winning poster, “Together We Can Overcome the Darkness” displayed on the screen.

Congratulations to 11th grader Amber Ramos, who combined her artistic talents with technology skills to design a poster that was recently selected as the Southern Region Winner in the Teens4Teens Mental Health PSA Contest. Amber designed her winning poster using ProCreate and Affinity, software programs that she learned to use this year in her high school “Information Technology” class taught by faculty member Rhapsody Hahn-Chaney.

“Amber is a very talented artist and she is certainly deserving of the spotlight for her work,” said Hahn-Chaney.  Amber’s poster, entitled “Together We Can Overcome the Darkness,” was one of eight winning student entries selected for recognition in the statewide contest held in May, which was Mental Health Awareness Month. The contest sponsors created a video to announce the winners on June 8 and posted the video on YouTube that features Amber’s poster and the other winning entries. Amber will also be receiving a $200 prize for her poster design

The contest was sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Heath, in partnership with The Center for Prevention and Counseling, Empower Somerset, the 2nd Floor Youth Helpline, and AtlantiCare Healthy Schools.  The goal of the Public Service Announcement (PSA) Contest was to promote mental wellness and support youth who may be going through a difficult time, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic’s long and short-term circumstances and effects.

Hahn-Chaney said she challenged Amber and her fellow classmates to enter the contest using the computer software programs they had learned to use during class. Amber said she created her poster on a tablet, working on the design during class and at home.  Three other students — Isaac Choi, Joseph Choi, and Daniel Kim — created posters that Hahn-Chaney also submitted into the contest and their posters are displayed below.

CLICK HERE to view the contest winners on YouTube that features Amber’s poster along with the other winning entries.

 

 

12th Grader Sydney Pearson One of 25 Area Seniors to Receive Press of Atlantic City Young Leaders Award

Congratulations to 12th grader Sydney Pearson for recently being selected as a recipient of the 2021 Press of Atlantic City Young Leaders Award. She is one of 25 seniors that were selected among nominees from high schools in Atlantic, Cape May, Cumberland, and southern Ocean counties for this special award that honors Southern New Jersey’s most community-minded seniors.

Sydney and the other award recipients were selected on the basis of their academic skills, diverse extracurricular activities, and service to their communities. Sydney is also receiving a small monetary scholarship.  She was interviewed by the Press for a full-page article on her that was part of a pull-out section published by The Press of Atlantic City on Thursday, June 10 and also posted on the newspaper’s website.

In the article, Sydney talks about how her faith inspires her to help others. “In the Bible, we are taught to be servants of Christ, and I believe that by following Jesus’ example, we’re able to do that for others,” Sydney said.

Sydney was the Valedictorian of the ACS Class of 2021, with a 4.28 GPA, was President of the Student Council, and team captain of the Varsity Girls’ soccer, basketball, and softball teams. During her high school career Sydney also participated in community service activities in her neighborhood, as well as serving communities in the Dominican Republic and the Bahamas as part of ACS missions trips. Sydney will be attending Stockton University in the fall, where she will major in nursing.

We’re proud of you, Sydney! Keep using your gifts as a leader to be a world-changer.

CLICK HERE to read the Young Leaders Press article on Sydney.

10th Grader Reyna Lewis Recently Accepted into Harvard University’s Summer Scholars Program

10th grader Reyna Lewis, right, was recently accepted into Harvard University’s Summer Scholars Program. Guidance Counselor Christina Ragland, left, assisted Reyna in the application process.

Congratulations to 10th grader Reyna Lewis for recently being accepted into Harvard University’s Summer Scholars Program.  Reyna will be taking two biology courses through the Harvard program that will earn her eight college credits and move her one step closer to her dream of becoming an anesthesiologist.  After high school, Reyna hopes to attend Duke University to study anesthesiology.

Reyna reached out in February to Guidance Counselor Christina Ragland for assistance with the application process to Harvard’s program and to a similar summer program at the University of Miami, and she was accepted to both programs.

“Reyna is a very focused and determined young lady,” Ragland said. “Her work ethic, leadership qualities, and genuine spirit have set a solid foundation for her even as a 10th grade student.”  Earlier this year, Reyna was also nominated and inducted into Atlantic Christian’s chapter of the National Honor Society.

“I am thankful that the Harvard community was able to see qualities in Reyna that we see here at ACS,” Ragland said. “I am beyond proud of her and know that she will represent our school well.” As part of the application process, Ragland submitted a letter of recommendation for Reyna and provided documents requested regarding her academics.

The two courses that Reyna will be taking during the Harvard program from June 21 to August 8 are “Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology” and “Introduction to Organismic and Evolutionary Biology.” Due to COVID-19 concerns, she will not be spending her summer in Cambridge, Massachusetts, but will be taking the classes online.

Reyna’s parents, Jason and Ruby Lewis, were pleased to see the effort that Reyna made to research and find the summer programs and to start the application process.

“We could not be more proud of Reyna, but we pray that she will look to and follow God’s plan for her life above all else,” Mrs. Lewis said.  “We are also thankful for the important role Mrs. Ragland played. She was a tremendous help in guiding Reyna toward her goals.”

ACS Hosts Annual Thank-You Lunch for Volunteers, Staff

ACS recognized and thanked volunteers, faculty, and staff for their commitment and service over the past school year at our school’s annual Thank-You Lunch on Thursday, June 8 in the Multi-Purpose Room. Event and Digital Marketing Manager  PJ Santos said that ACS was blessed with some 70 parents, grandparents, and friends in the community who gave generously of their time and talents as volunteers.  “We couldn’t have accomplished what we did this year without our faithful volunteers,” Santos said, as she recognized each volunteer and presented them with a potted plant 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, served on the Cougar Classic Golf Tournament Committee, and helped with the Race for Education and Harvest Day events.

The volunteers pictured are, back row from left: Katelin Klingert, Greg Louderback, Rudy Lushina, Melissa Reed, Robbie Schlundt, and Jill Schlundt; first row from left: Amanda Costello, Lisa Connolly, Angela Lushina, Connie Macpherson, Brenda Maurer, Alisun Klingert-Richards, Terry Vogel, and Patty Rosie.

ACS also gave a warm send-off to seven faculty/staff members who are leaving ACS to pursue other endeavors.  “You will always be a part of our ACS Family and our heart,” said Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen. “Our door is always open for you and we will be praying for you.”

Oblen presented the departing employees with personalized ACS sweat-shirts and framed word art created out of words that fellow employees used to described their character and abilities.

The seven departing employees are, from left to right: High school Bible teacher Zach Monroe; Early Education aide Abigail Vogel; Boys’ PE teacher and coach Ben Chapman; Event and Digital Marketing Manager PJ Santos; 5th grade teacher Bethany Kiefer; 5th grade teacher Gretchen Murphy; and 3rd grade teacher Karen Fosbenner.

 

Servant’s Heart Club Blesses Moms, School Staff with Appreciation Projects in May and June

ACS elementary students in the Servant’s Heart Club continued to find unique ways to serve and bless others for their final two projects in May and June — decorating flower pots and planting a flower in them as gifts for Mother’s Day and making ice cream sundaes to give to teachers and staff.

“It’s all about sharing God’s love by serving others,” said Club Advisor and ACS parent Jennifer DiMaio. “It’s important that we find ways to let the people God has put in our lives know that they are loved and appreciated.”  The 14 students from the 2nd to 5th grades who are members of the Club have been meeting after school on the first Tuesday of every month since October 2020 and each month’s project has had a different theme.

DiMaio said the students had fun at their May 4 meeting using colored markers to decorate their flower pots with artwork and special messages and were excited about giving them as gifts to their moms as well as to some of their teachers.  For their final club meeting on June 3, the students were treated to ice cream sundaes and then spent time making about 20 additional sundaes and delivering them to teachers and staff in their classrooms and offices, and to custodial staff in the hallways.

 

ACS Student Artwork Chosen for State-Wide Arts Festival

Artwork created by three ACS high school students has been selected to be part of the NJ Teen Arts Festival. From left: Art teacher Sherry Mirakian, 12th grader Kami DeNick, 11th grader Amber Ramos, and 12th grader Haoshen (Katherine) Kong.

Congratulations to three ACS high school students — Kami DeNick, Haoshen (Katherine) Kong, and Amber Ramos — who received high marks from judges for the spring Atlantic County Teen Arts Festival and whose artwork has advanced to be part of the 2021 NJ State Teen Arts Festival, which opened online on June 1.  The students’ artwork is being showcased in the festival,  along with other winning entries, on the njteenarts.com website for the entire year until next year’s festival.

For the state-level festival, in the Visual Arts 2D gallery on the website, Kami’s pastel and oil painting, entitled “Show Love,” and  Katherine’s water color and pen drawing, entitled “Dun Huang Mural,” are 2 of 17 featured entries by students from Atlantic County.  Amber Ramos’ 3D sculpture, created using wire and cardboard and entitled, “Rose,” is 1 of 3 featured entries from Atlantic County in the Visual Arts 3D gallery of the online NJ Teen Arts Festival.

“I am very pleased that once again several of our students have been recognized for their creative and artistic talents as part of  this annual festival,” said art teacher Sherry Mirakian.  “Our students are competing with their peers across the county and the state and they are having success.”  Mirakian also noted that senior Katherine Kong has been accepted to the School of Visual Arts in New York City, where she will continue to develop her artistic skills in the fall.

Mirakian submitted artwork from 13 ACS high school students for the Atlantic County festival in mid-April. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the festival was held virtually and photos of all artwork were submitted for judging.  For the county-level festival, students from 12 public or private schools, 1 piano studio, ,and 1 dance studio submitted 177 entries for judging.

CLICK HERE to view the ACS students’ artwork on the NJ Teen Arts Festival website.

 

Baccalaureate 2021 – Scholarships, Awards Announced; Seniors Challenged to Dedicate Their Lives to Serving God

Over 100 family members, faculty, and staff gathered for a time of prayer, worship, and presentation of awards and scholarships to the Class of 2021 at the Baccalaureate Service held at Harbor Pines Golf Club on Wednesday, June 2. Upper School Principal Meg McHale congratulated the seniors for their hard work and flexibility through a challenging year unlike any other and gave thanks to God for providing the strength and wisdom to persevere and succeed.

Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen welcomed everyone to the service and senior Rachel Whisman gave the opening prayer. Mrs. Jane Zigner led a time of worship, as voices were raised together to sing “In Christ Alone” and “Waymaker.”  Three faculty members — history teacher Amy Whisman, math teacher Gina Wilson, and math teacher — gave parting words of advice, encouraging the seniors to involve God in every aspect of their lives and to allow God to work through them to bless others (pictured below at right).

“All of us who have been your teachers will continue to be praying for you,” said Mrs. Wilson. “My prayer is that you learn to hear and discern the voice of God and that you dedicate yourselves to the ministry God has for you.”  The program concluded with ACS parent and Board of Directors’ member Kris Jacoby offering a prayer for God’s blessing on the Class of 2021.

A variety of scholarships and awards were presented during the program. Valedictorian Sydney Pearson and Salutatorian Kami DeNick (pictured below at left) were recognized and received the Academic Achievement Scholarships. Eight students out of the class of 18 (pictured below right) received certificates for Highest Honors for earning a GPA of 3.8 or higher, and one student — Rebekah Kimmerley — received a certificate for High Honors for earning a GPA of 3.5-3.79.

Five seniors attended ACS since kindergarten and received a special PTF award presented by PTF President Terry Vogel.

Five students who attended ACS continuously since kindergarten (pictured at right) received a $100 gift from the Parent Teacher Fellowship, presented by PTF President Terry Vogel, who described an education at ACS as “a priceless investment.” “You can’t do a better thing for your child than to send them to ACS,” Vogel said.

Following is a list of the special scholarship and award recipients:

  • Academic Achievement Scholarship: Sydney Pearson and Kami DeNick
  • The 5:14 Award, based on 1 Thessalonians 5:14 (in honor of former faculty member Kim Ordile, to the senior who has shown themselves to be the most encouraging): Chloe Vogel
  • Mayor Hodson Community Service Scholarship: Katherine Kong and Sydney Pearson
  • Garrett-Freeman Memorial Music and Art Scholarship (sponsored by ACS alumni parent Barbara Freeman): Katherine Kong
  • COMPASS Award (for senior seeking to serve in education): Kayla DeNick
  • Red Cross Blood Drive Recruitment Award (for senior involved in planning/recruitment of school blood drives): Sydney Pearson
  • Senior Art Award (for senior seeking to use their artistic gifts in further studies): Katherine Kong
  • Parent Teacher Fellowship Scholarship (best essay reflecting on their experience at ACS as aligned with Biblical teaching: Chloe Vogel (1st place); Kami DeNick & Kayla DeNick (2nd place)

CLICK HERE for a photo gallery of Baccalaureate.

 

Bike Day 2021 — Preschool Fun in the Sun

Bike Day 2021! Our preschool students got to bring their bicycles, tricycles, and scooters to school on Thursday, May 27 and spent the morning under beautiful, sunny skies riding around our track and enjoying other fun, outdoor activities on our campus.

May is National Bike Month and Bike Day is a popular annual event for our PreK2, PreK3, and PreK4 students. “It’s all about promoting health and fitness for our students,” said Early Education Director Gail Alford. “We want to see biking become a favorite activity for our preschool students and something that they will choose to do with their families and friends.”

Each class spent 30 minutes riding around the track and then moved to other areas on the campus throughout the morning to participate in other fun activities, including a sponge relay race and an inflatable obstacle course.  When all the activities were done, the students enjoyed a brown bag picnic lunch, followed by ice pops for dessert.

CLICK HERE for a photo gallery of Bike Day.

Volunteer Spotlight: Al Fry Helps Keep the ACS Grassy Athletic Fields Looking Pristine

Keeping the 37-acre ACS campus well-maintained is a significant challenge and involves a team effort among ACS groundskeeping staff and volunteers like Al Fry, who happily donates his time — at least 10 hours each week — to mow the grass and keep the some 15 acres of athletic fields and other outdoor areas looking pristine.

At least twice a week, you can spot Fry riding atop a large mower on one of the baseball, softball, or soccer fields or on grassy areas adjacent to educational buildings, and it’s a job that he loves to do.

“I do it because God allows me to do it,” says the 83-year-old Fry, who also mows the grass for several of his neighbors and occasionally for Greentree Church, his church home. He also enjoys volunteering for the local Police Athletic League and helping with their expansion projects.

Last month, Fry was recognized for his volunteer service to ACS at the school’s Annual Association Meeting on May 17. Board of Directors’ Vice Chair Rob Barberio presented Fry with one of the school’s 2021 Servant’s Heart Awards.

Board of Directors’ member Kris Jacoby, in her introduction of Fry said, “He is retired, but he hasn’t retired from serving the Lord. We’re very grateful that God led Mr. Fry, who isn’t an alumni parent or grandparent, to come serve at ACS by helping maintain our fields, enabling us to enjoy the beautiful property that God has blessed us with.”

Fry began volunteering at ACS six years ago, when his friend and former boss, Ralph Clayton, asked him to help out. Fry had retired at the age of 66, after working for over 40 years overseeing commercial utility work for the Clayton Company, A.E. Stone, and Arthur R. Henry, Inc.  His specialty was in the installation of underground gas, water, and electric lines for projects across south Jersey and in Florida. Fry grew up in Linwood, NJ and graduated from Ocean City High School. Right out of high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Army, where he worked as an equipment operator in France for three years.

Since retiring, Fry has enjoyed finding ways to help others and he is also passionate about supporting missionaries.  His older sister, Shirley, served for 20 years as a missionary in Haiti with Reciprocal Ministries International, and he has several friends serving in missions. He is happy to see ACS students involved in missions trips and two years ago donated a large number of tool kits for the ACS Missions Club to use on its short-term missions trip projects.

In his spare time, Fry enjoys spending time with his three children and three grandchildren, and mowing the three acres of grass that surrounds his Egg Harbor Township home.

Classroom Cameo: High School Students Measure Their Shadows for Trigonometry Project

Students in our high school geometry class headed outdoors to the school track for two days in late May to measure their shadows — an inter-active assignment that was part of their unit on trigonometry.

Faculty member Gina Wilson came up with the creative hands-on activity as a way to help the students use trigonometry ratios, such as Sine, Cosine, and Tangent, to find missing side lengths and angles in triangles.

“The project incorporated all that the students have been learning in our trigonometry unit and allowed them to practice their knowledge in an unconventional setting,” Mrs. Wilson said. For the project, the students had to measure their heights and the length of their shadow and then use trig ratios to calculate the angle of elevation to the sun.

“The students were surprised to find that their shadows were longer earlier in the morning, which effected the angles,” Mrs. Wilson said. “It was fun to watch them make connections like that throughout the project.”

Senior Baseball, Softball Players, Parents Honored on May 22

ACS honored its three senior players on the Varsity Boys’ Baseball Team and its four senior players and two team managers on the Varsity Girls’ Softball Team and their parents in a special ceremony on Saturday, May 22. The ceremony was held prior to the start of the home games against Veritas Christian Academy.

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

The Senior boys honored were: outfielders Gabe Catusse-Martinella, Malachi Green, and Joshua Jacoby. Both Malachi and Joshua were strong at bat throughout the season and Malachi’s speed once on base accounted for many steals.

The Senior girls honored were: center fielder Amy Ki, captain and pitcher Shelby Einwechter, who had over 25 strikeouts this season and a .533 batting average; captain and 1st baseman Sydney Pearson, who had a .545 batting average, including two home runs and a grand slam; captain and catcher Chloe Vogel, who has been the lead off batter this year with a .515 batting average.  Kayla DeNick and Bekah Kimmerley served as the team’s managers.

“Our seniors made big contributions to both teams this year and they will be missed both on and off the field,” Hitchner said. “They were strong leaders and stepped up to the plate to do whatever the team needed, from base running to learning a new position.”

Hitchner said ACS is also grateful to the parents of the seniors, who have supported the teams throughout their high school years, some getting involved as assistant coaches, like Lori Pearson and Terry Vogel, and others providing encouragement from the bleachers, donating concessions, and helping provide transportation to games when needed.

 

ACS Baseball, Softball Teams Finish Season in 2nd Place, Lose in Championship Round to Pilgrim Academy

The ACS Varsity Baseball and Softball teams lost their hard-fought battles against Pilgrim Academy in the Championship Games on Tuesday, June 2, finishing the season in second place in the Tri-State Christian Athletic Conference.

“We’re very proud of both teams and the way they gave it their all and played with a lot of heart,” said Athletic Director Pam Hitchner.  In the Boys’ Championship game, the teams were evenly matched and were tied 1-1 until the 9th inning. The ACS Boys’ team, under head co-coaches Gus Casey and Ben Chapman, lost 6 to 4, with RBIs from 12th graders Joshua Jacoby and Malachi Green.

The ACS Girls’ team, under head coach Dara Kimmerley, lost 8 to 4, and had several rallies that fell short. 9th grader Evangelina Kim, 10th grader Paige Noble, and 12th grader Chloe Vogel contributed with RBIs. The Pilgrim Varsity Girls’ team had been undefeated all season, led by a senior pitcher who was named TSCAC MVP.

“We’re grateful to all our players and coaches for their hard work and determination to do their best,” Hitchner said.  “We are confident our teams will come back even stronger next year.”

After the games, several ACS players were honored as TSCAC All-Stars. Congratulations to the eight ACS players who were named All-Stars — Boys’ starting pitcher John Hannum (1st team); 1st baseman Josh Schlundt and catcher Eric VonColln (2nd team); Girls’ shortstop Evangelina Kim, 1st baseman Sydney Pearson, and catcher Chloe Vogel (1st team); starting pitcher Shelby Einwechter and center fielder Alli Lushina (2nd team).

 

Classroom Cameo: Walking Tour of Philadelphia Brings Early American History to Life for 3rd Grade Students

The students in Mrs. McCarthy’s 3rd grade class enjoyed a field trip to Philadelphia on Friday, May 21 that helped bring their study of early American history to life.

The students went on a two-hour guided walking tour of Historic Philadelphia, led by the award-winning BowTie Tours.

The students visited a number of well-known landmarks such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, and Congress Hall. They also made stops at some lesser known places, including the Graff House, where the Constitution was written; the first and second bank of the United States; Library Hall, which was the first public library; and Christ Church Burial Ground, the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin and several other signers of the Declaration of Independence.

ACS Cheerleaders, Scouts Participate in Longport Memorial Day Parade

The ACS Cheer Squad and members of the ACS Boy Scout Troop 389 and Cub Scout Pack 389, joined by ACS parents and staff, marched in the Memorial Day Parade in Longport, NJ on Monday, May 31 to honor the memory of those who have served in the U.S. military and given their lives for their service.

The cheerleaders and scouts were also joined by ACS parents and staff as they walked the half-mile long parade route along 35th Avenue and Ventnor Avenue in Longport. The parade, which was organized by American Legion Post 459, concluded at the Thomas B. Reed Park near the Longport Bridge, where a Memorial Day ceremony was held.

This is the second year that the ACS scouts have marched in the parade. ACS 5th grader Brandon Jorgenson carried the U.S. flag at the head of the procession, flanked by ACS 11th grader Joshua Guevara, who carried the Troop’s Boy Scout Jersey Shore Council flag.

“We were so glad to have the opportunity to participate in the parade and help honor the memory of so many fallen heroes,” said staff member Kelly Flynn. Flynn and staff member Kelly Gibson are co-coaches of the ACS Cheer Squad, which has 23 students in middle school and high school.

It was the first time that the ACS cheerleaders had participated in the event. The cheerleaders handed out candy and ACS pens, and waved at the children and families who lined the streets of the parade route and watched from balconies.

 

 

Texas Roadhouse Spirit Day Supports ACS Athletics

We had a great turn-out for our first ACS Spirit Day at Texas Roadhouse in Egg Harbor Township on May 26. Thank you to our school families, staff, alumni, alumni parents, and friends of ACS who came out to enjoy a great meal and help raise funds for ACS Athletics.

ACS received 10% of the sales that evening, with $350 coming back to ACS.  There was lots to celebrate that night, with the dual victory earlier in the day of our Varsity teams in the baseball and softball semi-final playoff games.

“We are so thankful we were able to hold a Spirit Day this spring because the COVID-19 pandemic prevented us from holding any other Spirit Days this school year,” said Athletic Director Pam Hitchner.

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

 

 

AtlantiCare Healthy Schools Program Rewards ACS Students for Walking for Good Health

ACS students have been making a special effort this spring to spend dedicated time walking outdoors for good health. Five elementary classes participated in a 4-week walking challenge in March and April and received prizes for their efforts this week from the AtlantiCare Healthy Schools, Healthy Children program.

For walking over 400 minutes during the month-long challenge, the students in Mr. Tardif’s 4th grade class and Ms. Williams’ 2nd grade class won the top prize of a blue portable water pouch. Students in Mrs. Capito’s 1st grade class walked some 300 minutes and received pencils.

Students in two other classes — Mrs. Meza’s 2nd grade class and Mrs. Reilly’s kindergarten class — received stickers with encouraging slogans like “Fueled by Fitness” and “Moving and Improving.” Each of the classes also received an AtlantiCare Certificate of Achievement.

Mr. Tardif said his class walked 20-30 minutes each day, mostly in the afternoon, to help boost his students’ energy and creativity. Mrs. Reilly’s spent 10-15 minutes walking with her students each day around the track and the basketball court.  “We really enjoyed going outside and breathing the fresh air and getting some healthy exercise,” said Mrs. Reilly.

The 4-week Walking Challenge was among a number of health and wellness activities that ACS students participated in throughout the school year.  By participating in these activities, ACS earned points that qualified the school to receive a $300 grant in May from the AtlantiCare Healthy Schools, Healthy Children program.

 

 

Varsity Baseball, Softball Teams to Play in TSCAC Championship Games on Sat., May 29

We’re in the Championship Games!  The Varsity Boys’ Baseball and Varsity Girls’ Softball teams are heading into the Tri-State Christian Athletic Conference Championship game on Saturday, May 29, after beating Calvary Academy’s teams in semi-final playoff games on Tuesday, May 25.

Come out and cheer for our Cougars as they both face off against Pilgrim Academy in the final matches that will also be played at Pilgrim Academy.  The Girls’ Softball Championship Game will begin at 12:30 p.m. and the Boys’ Baseball Championship Game will begin at 1 p.m.

The Varsity Boys’ baseball team, under head co-coaches Ben Chapman and Gus Casey, were seeded second entering the playoffs.  Playing at home, ACS beat Calvary Academy 5-4 in the semi-final game, with 10th grader Caleb Vogel hitting in the first run in the bottom of the 5th inning. Senior Joshua Jacoby followed suit, hitting a stand up double in the bottom of the 6th inning and starting a rally that ended up with ACS scoring four runs in that inning.

The Varsity Girls’ softball team, under head coach Dara Kimmerley, beat Calvary Academy 13-3, playing away at Calvary. ACS and Calvary were tied for second place going into the semi-playoff game.  Senior pitcher Shelby Einwechter pitched a complete game with six strike-outs and went 3 for 3 at bat. Freshman shortstop Evangelina Kim went 5 for 5 with a double. Senior catcher Chloe Vogel went 2 for 3 with two singles and senior Sydney Pearson, who plays 1st base, went 1 for 3 with a triple. Coach Kimmerley is assisted by ACS parents Lori Pearson and Terry Vogel.

Congratulations to our players and coaches for working hard all season and making it to the Championship Games. Go Cougars!  The TSCAC gate fees on Saturday will be $2/students; $3/Adults; $10/per family.