Post Tagged with: "Christian School"

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 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.

 

 

High School Students Make Memories at ACS Prom 2023

Close to 100 high school students and their guests enjoyed an elegant evening of dinner and dancing on May 5 at the Flanders Hotel in Ocean City.

Couples and friends took advantage of the warm weather and ocean front setting to make memories posing for beautiful pictures along the Atlantic Ocean and Ocean City Boardwalk prior to the start of the Prom.

The Junior Class, which sponsored the Prom, creatively decorated the Flanders Hotel Ballroom, dinner tables, and photo booth based on this year’s theme — The Enchanted Forest.

Classroom Spotlight: 3rd Graders Bring Historic Figures, Founding Fathers to Life with History Project

Betsy Ross, Thomas Jefferson, Harriet Tubman, Sacagawea, and Benjamin Franklin came to life in early May in our 3rd grade classrooms as students gave presentations on these and other important figures in American history, including decorating and stylizing large posters to look like the historic persons they had selected. The posters are now on display on the walls outside their classrooms.

The creative history project got underway in late March with students reading a biography of their choice about a founding father, another famous American, or a notable African American. They then had to complete a fact sheet that included listing four unusual facts about their person and reflecting on what they learned from studying them. They also had to create a large poster that contained information about their historic person and was decorated to look like them. The project concluded during the second week of May with each student giving an oral presentation on their famous person in front of their classmates while “wearing” their poster.

“This was a fun project that students completed at home and some students got very creative with designing the clothing, hair, and other details on their posters that really made their historic person come to life,” said Mrs. Myers, who was one of three 3rd grade teachers who assigned the project to their students. Myers said the idea for the project originated with 3rd grade teacher Laura McCarthy, who has been assigning the project to her students since the 2017-2018 school year.

Classroom Spotlight: 4th Graders Create Salt Relief Maps of New Jersey

Students in Mrs. Jackson’s 4th grade class recently created salt relief maps of New Jersey as part of their focus in history class on learning about the state’s history, culture, climate, wildlife, topography, and other important information.

In late April, the students shaped dough into the form of the Garden State and then labeled the state’s four regions — the Appalachian Ridge and Valley, the Highlands, the Central Corridor/Piedmont, and the Atlantic Coastal Plain. The students also labeled the location of the state capital in Trenton and the barrier islands.

“This hands-on project was a great way for our students to take some of the facts about our state and make it something they could visualize and more easily remember,” said Mrs. Jackson. “And they had a lot of fun doing it as well.” The students in Mr. Tardif’s 4th grade class also had the opportunity to do this project.

 

Tuition Assistance Application Deadline Next Week – Monday, May 1

A friendly reminder — this coming Monday, May 1 is the deadline to apply for Tuition Assistance for the 2023-2024 school year.

Tuition assistance grants are available to new and returning school families with students enrolling in kindergarten through the 12th grade who have demonstrated financial need. The May 1 deadline is for returning families. New families may apply until September 1.

Applications must be submitted online to FACTS Grant and Aid Assessment, which conducts the financial need analysis.  Families applying must complete a FACTS application and submit the necessary supporting documentation to FACTS Grant & Aid Assessment. There is a non-refundable $35.00 Application Fee.

Tuition assistance on a needs-basis will only be awarded to returning families who have completed re-enrollment and paid the Enrollment Fee.

CLICK HERE to apply for a Tuition Assistance Grant.

 

Musical, Dramatic Talents of K-3 Students Shine in Spring Concert

Parents, family members, and friends packed the ACS gym on April 21 for our K-3rd grade Elementary Spring Concert. The instrumental, vocal, and acting skills of our students were on display as they performed on recorders, sang songs that celebrated the power and love of God, and presented the musical “Puzzle Puppy.”

Five students were featured in the musical’s skits — 3rd grader Kambriella Rogers as Detective Puzzle Puppy, 3rd grader Grace Petrinec as the Cat, 3rd grader Victoria Rosario as the Mole, 3rd grade Chloe Capito as Pixie Poodle, and 2nd grader Carson Myers as the Police Dog. Four 2nd graders — Jayce Bird, Sadie Brossman, Harleigh Kraus, and Jaxson Silva — sang in the Drama Chorus. Interspersed with the skits, students in the 1st-3rd grades presented songs to tell the story of Detective Puzzle Puppy investigating the case of Pixie Poodle’s missing puppy treats.

The kindergarten classes closed the concert with two praise and worship songs — “Super Wonderful” by Little Praise Party and Yancy” and “Children of God” by Saddleback Kids. Congratulations to faculty members Tim Rosie and Julie Zimmer for doing an excellent job teaching and directing our elementary music program this year.

Thank you also to faculty member Rhapsody Hahn-Chaney and the students in her after-school Costume Design Workshop for creating and making the charming costumes for the actors in the musical skits.

 

Students in After-School Costume Design Workshop Create Costumes for K-3 Spring Concert

Students in the after-school Costume Design Workshop had the unique opportunity to create the costumes for five actors who were featured in the “Puzzle Puppy” musical performed at the K-3 Spring Concert on April 21. During the five-week workshop, faculty member Rhapsody Hahn-Chaney instructed the students as they designed and sewed the costumes for the elementary students playing the parts of Detective Puzzle Puppy, Pixie Poodle, Police Dog, Mole, and Cat.

“The students were very excited to be involved in creating costumes for a real production and had just five weeks to finish the project, but they worked very hard and met the deadline,” Hahn-Chaney said. She said the students used design concepts that were initially created in the high school fashion design elective class. The after-school workshop students, who were in the 4th-8th grades, then took those concepts and moved forward. They cut fabric using paper patterns and created each costume from scratch, using sewing machines and hand stitching.

The ten students who participated in the after-school workshop were: Megan Connolly, Isabella Cordetti, Hailey Everland, Eve Gibbs, Julieta Gonzalez, Emily Kinch, Zy’Rainalyn Rogers, Geanna Ulerio, Taylor Vola, and Norah Wilson.

In addition to creating the costumes, three students in the after-school class — Megan Connolly, Zy’Rainalyn Rogers, and Norah Wilson — volunteered to work backstage the night of the concert as dressers to ensure the actors were properly fitted into their costumes.

 

 

 

Students, Staff Celebrate Resurrection of Christ in All-School Easter Chapel

ACS students and staff gathered on April 6 for an all-school Easter Chapel to celebrate the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, who died for the sins of the world and rose victorious to bring salvation and eternal life to mankind. Various student musical groups performed songs that joyfully told the story of the hope of salvation in Christ.

Upper School Principal Meg McHale opened the Easter Chapel in prayer as some 700 students from preschool to high school and their teachers gathered in the gym for the chapel.

The PreK4 classes opened the chapel singing “One-Two-Three,” followed by the 8th Grade Band playing “Christ the Lord is Risen Today,” led by Music Director Tim Rosie.

McHale then talked about the upcoming missions trips to Coatesville, Pennsylvania and the Bahamas that middle school and high school students would be taking during Easter break and how they will be sharing the message of a risen Savior with the adults and children they will be serving. She then invited the students to come forward and faculty member Dan Vasquez gave a prayer of blessing and commission. Vasquez and his wife, Erin, would be serving as chaperones, along with staff member Carrie Jorgenson, for the team serving in Coatesville at the Bridge Academy.

Elementary Principal Gail Alford then introduced the 3rd grade classes who sang “The Power of the Cross,” followed by the 5th grade Worship Team singing “No One Greater,” and the combined 4th and 5th Grade Worship Teams getting everyone on their feet to sing and do choreography to “Lord, I Lift Your Name on High.”

Easter Chapel speaker Christian Delacruz

Following the praise and worship time, a short video was shown celebrating the greatest gift of all — Christ’s victory over death when He rose from the dead, leaving an empty tomb, and making the gift of eternal life available to all mankind.

Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen then introduced high school Bible teacher and Event Coordinator Christian Delacruz to present the chapel message. Delacruz outlined why Christ’s resurrection was needed, the events that led up to the resurrection, and the benefits of the resurrection.  “The resurrection of Jesus Christ accomplished many things for us as believers,” Delacruz said. “It was the ultimate victory over sin and death and it paved the way for our salvation and eternal life. Through the resurrection we have been given new life, a new identity, and a new purpose, and we can live with the assurance that nothing can ever separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

The High School Worship, under the direction of faculty member Julie Zimmer, then led everyone in two songs praising God for the gift of eternal life through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Chief School Administrator Oblen closed the chapel in prayer.

 

8th-12th Grade Students Challenged to Rekindle Their Relationship With God at Re-Ignite Retreat

Students in the 8th-12th grades were challenged to rekindle their relationship with God and to pursue new ways to strengthen their spiritual life during a half-day spiritual emphasis retreat called “Re-Ignite” held on April 20.

Re-Ignite was held from 8:45 a.m. to noon in the ACS gym and included time for praise and worship, prayer, testimonies, and inspiring messages from three area pastors — Pastor Joe Stoop of Wellspring Church in Mays Landing, Pastor Mat Mouliert of Crossroads Fellowship in Pleasantville, and Pastor Matthew Maher of Landmark Church in Ocean City.

“The students were engaged and reflective as they listened to the pastors share their hearts and their passion for developing young people who will seek to honor God with their lives,” said Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen. “Each pastor had a unique message that made an impact and we are so grateful for their participation and for the worship leaders who came to be part of this first-time event.”

Before each pastor spoke, worship teams from each church led the students in a time of singing and praising God. In between sessions, the students had the opportunity to break into prayer groups or pray with a faculty or staff member and many chose to do that.  More than half a dozen students also voluntarily stood up to share their personal testimonies of how following God had helped them overcome challenges in their lives.

“We praise God that during this event four students also gave their hearts to the Lord,” Oblen said. “The spirit of God was truly moving throughout the morning and we look forward to holding this kind of event again next year.”

 

Cheer Team Wins First Place at The ONE Cheer and Dance Finals in Virginia in Jr. High Intermediate Division

Three cheers for our ACS Cheer Team for winning first place for the second consecutive year at The ONE Finals cheer competition held April 1-2 at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. The squad took first place in the School Cheer Division, Junior High Intermediate Level.

“This was an amazing accomplishment for this squad of 21 middle school and high school students to win the top spot again,” said head coach Morgan Gibson. “We faced a number of challenges this year and the team worked very hard to overcome them and be at the top of their game for every competition. I am very proud of them.” The team has been practicing since last September on improving their tumbling skills and learning routines, under the leadership of Gibson and assistant coach Michelle Wheeler.

Gibson said the team will now advance to compete for the national Grand Champion title in its Division. The ONE Finals are held in five different locations across the U.S. from March-May. A final, virtual round of competition to select the overall national grand champion in each division will be held in June. A video of the ACS Cheer Team competing in Virginia will be reviewed and scored again by a new panel of judges for that final competition. The winners will be announced in June.

The 21 members of the cheer team are: 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.

Thank you to everyone who supported the cheer team, including participating in the recent Applebee’s Flapjack fundraiser, and the parents who hosted team dinners and encouraged our cheerleaders through a season filled with challenges.

Batters Up! Baseball, Softball Teams Make Strong Season Start

The Varsity Baseball and Softball teams are off to a strong start this spring, with both teams winning their season opener against Pilgrim Academy on April 4, just before Easter break. Since returning from the break, the Varsity Girls Softball team has racked up three more wins — against Calvary Christian, King’s Christian School, and American Christian School — and the Varsity Boys Baseball team has won two and lost one.

Two more games will round out the schedule for April — away at King’s Christian on April 27 and at home on April 28 against Gloucester County Christian School. Come on out and cheer for our Cougars.

The Varsity Girls Softball Team won the Tri-State Christian Athletic Conference (TSCAC) title last year and the Varsity Boys Baseball team finished in 2nd place last season, losing to Pilgrim Academy in the TSCAC Championship Game. Both ACS teams are looking to be conference contenders again this year.

The Varsity Girls Softball Team is being led by head coach Dara Kimmerley, in her 10th year as head coach. She is assisted by Lori Pearson, and Terry Vogel.

The 16 members of the Varsity Softball Team are: Isabell Alford, Alexis Andujar, Kaia Barbour, Sophia Costello, Rebecca DiMaio, Vera Huff, Evangelina Kim, Alli Lushina, Ava Nixon, Marley Odell, Paige Noble, Allison Schlundt, Summer Scott, Skyler Shivers, Taylor Sutton, and Kennedy Vasquez.

The Varsity Boys Baseball Team has a new head coach — alumnus Carl Phillips (’17). Phillips was a member of the ACS Varsity Baseball teams in 2016 and 2017 when they won the TSCAC Championship title and he served as an assistant coach in 2018 when the team also won the TSCAC Championship. Phillips is assisted by Brandon Keller.

The 12 members of the Varsity Baseball Team are: Robby Barberio, Logan Benson, John Cook, Charlie Costello, Richie Jackson, Josh Merlino, James Papanikolaou, Carson Payne, Seth Phillips, Adam Schlundt, Malachi Vasquez, and Caleb Vogel.

Pictured here are photos taken at the season opener at home of ACS versus Pilgrim Academy. Please check the Athletic Calendar on the ACS website or ACS App for all upcoming game schedules.

Over 50 Middle, High School Students Participating in Track and Field

The spring track and field season is now underway and ACS 6th-12th grade athletes have one victory under their belt, beating King’s Christian School in an April 19 track meet in Pennsauken.

ACS athletes won in every category — the middle school girls had 54 points versus 12 points for King’s, the middle school boys chalked up 62 points to 9 points for King’s, the high school girls finished with 51 points over 14 points for King’s, and the high school boys scored 39 points to 24 points for King’s. ACS and King’s Christian plan to compete in a second meet later this spring.

Athletic Director Pam Hitchner and Boys’ PE teacher Josh Clark are overseeing the development of 51 middle and high school students who are participating this spring.

There are several upcoming track meets. ACS will compete again on Wednesday, April 26 at a multi-school meet sponsored by the Mid-Atlantic Christian Schools Association (MACSA). The meet is being held at Messiah University in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania.

On May 11, ACS will host the Tri-State Christian Athletic Conference Track Meet and school parents and family members are welcome to come out and cheer for our athletes during this day-long event that will begin at 9 a.m. and conclude at 3 p.m.

 

 

Buy Your Tickets to Attend Our May 12 Legacy Gala with Comedian Jeff Allen

Iconic comedian Jeff Allen will be the headliner at Atlantic Christian School’s Legacy Gala on Friday, May 12 at the Ocean City Tabernacle in Ocean City, NJ. The benefit event is open to the public and will raise funds to support Atlantic Christian’s financial aid program.

Allen has entertained audiences around the world and 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.

“Laughter is good medicine and Mr. Allen has been making people laugh for five decades,” said Chief School Administrator Karen Oblen. “We’re very excited to be bringing Mr. Allen to share his quick wit and humorous perspective on situations that come out of everyday life. It’s sure to be an enjoyable evening for the whole family.”

Oblen said the proceeds from the fundraiser will benefit the school’s Tuition Assistance Grant Fund, which since 2017 has been providing tuition discounts to hundreds of qualified families in need to give them access to a Christian education for their children.

The doors at the Ocean City Tabernacle will open at 6:30 p.m. and the program will begin at 7:15 p.m. A Silent Auction with entertainment, sports, and destination experiences, dining and shopping gift certificates, gourmet food baskets, and more will be part of the Gala event.

Ticket prices start at just $55 and groups of 10 or more will get a discount. There is also a VIP Experience for $150 where ticketholders will receive premium seating, have a meet and greet with Jeff Allen, and enjoy an appetizer and dessert reception, which will start at 5:30 p.m. Sponsorship and advertising opportunities are also available. Sponsors will also enjoy the benefits of the VIP Experience.

Tickets, sponsorships, and ads to the ACS Legacy Gala 2023 can be purchased online at ACSEHT.ORG/LEGACYGALA or by calling the school at 609-653-1199, ext. 302. Tickets will also be sold at the door.

CLICK HERE to purchase tickets, sponsorships, and ads.

 

Don’t Delay! Register Now for Our May 16 Cougar Classic Golf Tournament at McCullough’s Emerald Golf Links

Our Cougar Classic Golf Tournament is just three weeks away and 64 golfers are now registered for the event.  Our goal is 100 golfers, so spread the word to your friends and co-workers and encourage them to sign up for an enjoyable time of fellowship out on the beautiful course at McCullough’s Emerald Golf Links in Egg Harbor Township.

Tickets are also on sale for the post-Tournament lunch, which is open to golfers and non-golfers. The lunch will be held at the Vagabond Restaurant in Egg Harbor Township, which is located on the premises of the golf course. Be sure to purchase your lunch ticket by Thursday, May 11 for $35 each online.

“We are very thankful for the many parents, alumni, businesses, and friends in the community who are supporting our Golf Tournament by signing up to golf or be a sponsor,” said Event Coordinator Christian Delacruz.  “We’re looking forward to a wonderful day on the golf course and we are golfing with a purpose — to raise funds for our Tuition Assistance Grant Fund that makes it possible for many families to have access to a Christian education at ACS for their children.”

Delacruz also said there are some great prizes lined up for the golfer foursomes who come in first, second, or third place, for the golfers who get closest to the pin on a selected hole and hit the longest drive on a selected hole, who win the putting contest, and more.

The deadline is Friday, May 5 to donate to be a Golf Sponsor to give ample for the sponsor signage to be produced for the event.

CLICK HERE to register to golf, to be a Golf Sponsor, or to purchase a Golf Lunch ticket.

Sneak Peak at Gala Silent Auction Items — Get-Away Trips, Amusement/Water Park Tickets, Lunch with Congressman Van Drew, and More

The excitement is building for our Silent Auction at the Legacy Gala on May 12 as over 60 donations will now be up for bid — including gift cards from restaurants and spas, tickets to amusement and water parks, and get-away trip packages. The auction will once again incorporate mobile bidding, allowing ACS families and friends to bid on items whether or not they are able to attend the Legacy Gala in person.

Want a sneak pick at some of the items up for bid? CLICK HERE to go to our online bidding site. More items will be added to the site every day. Themed classroom gift baskets, featuring donations by ACS parents, will also be part of the Silent Auction and the deadline to donate items for those baskets is Monday, May 1.

Online bidding in the Silent Auction will open five days before the Gala — on Monday, May 8 at 5 p.m. — and will close on Friday, May 12 at 7:00 p.m. All are invited to bid, whether at the event or from afar. All bidders need to register — creating a user name and password — before they can bid.  CLICK HERE to register to bid, or go to:  https://bit.ly/2023ACSauction

One of the unique items up for bid will be lunch in the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC with Congressman Jeff Van Drew and a behind-the-scenes tour of the Capitol. ACS parents Jason and Bethany Kiefer, their daughters Isabelle and Hannah, and several other family members won the bid to this auction item last year and it was a very memorable experience. Bethany even got to sit in the Congressman’s chair at his desk.

A number of new auction items will be coming up for bid, including:

  • Tickets to Morey’s Pier waterpark
  • Tickets to Six Flags Great Adventure and Safari
  • Tickets to the musical “Moses” at the Sight and Sound Theatre in Pennsylvania
  • A “Discover Absecon Island” Gift Basket — with tickets to the Absecon Lighthouse and Lucy the Elephant, Towne Square Entertainment movie theater tickets, a gift card to PJ Buckets seafood restaurant, and more
  • Tickets to the Museum of the American Revolution in Philadelphia
  • One week of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) Surf Camp in Ocean City
  • Family passes for 4 to the Giggleberry Fair Indoor Family Fun Center at Peddler’s Village in Lahaska, PA
  • Free rental of the party facilities at the Ocean City Tabernacle
  • Just Organics Farmer’s Market Produce Box and Health Consultation
  • Admission to Proshot Pickleball at the Shore Mall
  • Admission tickets to the Creation Museum in Kentucky
  • A Family Membership to Range129 Shooting Sports Training Facility in Absecon

We will also have some exciting auction items from some of our past popular Silent Auction donors, including:

  • Atlantic City Cruises
  • Caesars Atlantic City
  • Hard Rock Cafe
  • Kalahari Resorts
  • Linwood County Club
  • Longwood Gardens
  • the Philadelphia Eagles
  • StoryBook Land
  • and a lot more!

 

 

 

Classroom Spotlight: 2nd Grade Students Read a Favorite Book, Create Float-Like Dioramas

Second grade students selected a favorite book to read in February and then built and decorated three-dimensional dioramas that creatively depict a scene from their chapter book. Some 60 dioramas, made out of shoe boxes or large boxes, were on display during March in an elementary hallway and in a classroom.

In addition to the dioramas, the students also had to write a book report and give an oral presentation about their book to their classmates. Some of the books read by students in Mrs. Hockenberry’s 2B class included “Nate the Great and the Stolen Base,” “Space Taxi: Archie Takes Flight,” “Cat Kid Comic Club,” and “The Adventures of a South Pole Pig.”

A sampling of books read by students in Mrs. Brossman’s 2A class and Ms. Leach’s 2C class include: “Dinosaurs Before Dark,” “Dog Man 10: Mothering Heights,” “I Survived the Sinking of the Titanic, 1912,” “Some Pig,” “The World of Emily Windsnap,”  “I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916,” and “Marion’s Got the Butterflies.”

“We want our students to develop a love of reading and learn how to dig deeper into a book to identify the setting, the main characters, and the main events,” said Mrs. Hockenberry. “The students did a really good job creating their dioramas and have learned about a lot of interesting books by hearing the oral presentations and seeing the dioramas their classmates created.”