Viking – December 2011 - Lakeland Christian School

VikingLakeland Christian SchoolTheDecember 2011Christian Emphasis anLCS Distinctive

The mission of Lakeland Christian School is to educatestudents in the light of God’s word to equip them for alifetime of learning, leadership, service and worship.“Your mission, Mr. Phelps, should you decide toaccept it ...” The seemingly impossible challenge wasdescribed by the familiar voice on the mini-recorder beforeit self- destructed in a puff of smoke. The skilled team wasgathered, and the adventure was begun. Mission Impossibleprovided adventures of intrigue to TV audiences manyyears ago and even inspired movies bythe same name in recent years.There is something captivatingabout a mission of significance. TheMission Impossible team demonstratedexceptional skill, impeccable timing,We have notchanged ourmission. We haveonly endeavoredto express it withgreater clarity.Mission PossibleBy Dr. Mike Sligh, Headmasterresourcefulness in adversity and a coolhead under pressure. They accomplishedthe impossible to preserve life as we knowit in less than sixty minutes each week!The mission of LCS is even moresignificant and captivating, for it isa mission with eternal implications.Over the past few months, members of the faculty,administration and board have been engaged in a processof revising our mission statement. We have not changedour mission. We have only endeavored to express it withgreater clarity. The mission statement is complementedby a listing of Core Values that provides an expression ofwhat is highly valued at LCS as we go about the businessof fulfilling our mission (see page 9).Our mission is first and foremost to educate. Ourprimary focus must be teaching and learning. Ourstudents must acquire the knowledge and skills that willenable them to take an active role in the global economyand in the world of ideas.But what does it mean to educate students “in thelight of God’s Word”? Volumes have been written on thistopic but at the very core is the understanding that God is(Genesis 1:1; Hebrews 11:6), that He has revealed Himself inscripture (2 Timothy 3:16) and in the creation (Romans 1),and that His ultimaterevelation is in JesusChrist (Hebrews 1:1-3).God’s truth as revealedin scripture informs theChristian’s perspectiveon all of life andlearning. Conceptsof beauty, justice,morality, community,love and many otherfoundational elementsof life all find theirfoundation in thecharacter and truth ofGod. An education thatshelters students fromthese truths does not prepare them for the real world.There is a great deal of conversation today about being“lifetime learners.” The expansion of information and knowledgeis occurring at such blinding speed that the importance oflearning how to learn often supersedes what is learned. Wewant our students to have 21st century skills for learning with aworldview anchored in the unchanging Truth of scripture.Leadership and service go together throughout thescriptures. A leader must have the personal discipline to leadhimself/herself before attempting to influence others. Thedevelopment of leadership involves trial and error and can bemessy at times. Students must have real opportunities to failalong the way in order to rise to leadership. Biblically-basedleadership is rooted in the notion of servant leadership. A leaderis first of all a servant. Even the secular publications todayare full of encouragement to adopt the servant-leader style ofleadership. We want to provide all students with opportunities todevelop as leaders and as servants. Service includes compassionfor others and a call to action when faced with injustice.There is no higher human activity than that of worship. Weall worship something. Because we are all fallen and selfish bynature, we are all too prone to worship the creation and culturerather than the Creator. Certainly, only God can change thecontinued on page 7in this issue2 Boosterthon3 Dream Come4-9 Spiritual Distinctive of LCS10-14 Elementary Happenings16-18 Secondary News19 AlumniTrue Campaign15 Fine Arts20-23 Sports

LCS Event to Feature Recording Artist Jonny Diaz5 th AnnualConcert Set forFebruary 13Jonny Diaz is coming to Lakeland for the benefit of LCS! The contemporary Christianpop artist and singer of the hit song, “More Beautiful You”, will perform in concert at the5th Annual LCS Musical Harvest, Monday, February 13, 7:00 p.m., at Trinity PresbyterianChurch in downtown Lakeland.Diaz, last year’s Dove Award nominee for New Artist of the Year, will perform on stagewith more than 115 LCS student musicians and vocalists. This special concert evening willfeature Diaz singing more than a dozen of his top songs, and he will be joined in certainnumbers by the Senior High Concert Choir, the Junior High Choir, the Chamber Ensembleand the Sixth Grade Choir. The LCS Symphonic Winds will provide instrumental support.Diaz has shared the stage with such artists as Steven Curtis Chapman, MercyMe, Matthew West and Bebo Norman, andhas appeared at some of the largest Christian music festivals in the country. The music video for “More Beautiful You” wonGospel Music Channel’s Contemporary Video Award in 2009, receiving more votes than any other video in any category.Proceeds from this year’s event will help purchase a new baby grand piano for the Music Department. The balance ofthe money raised will be used to provide financial aid to families struggling to keep their children at LCS, a marvelous causein this economy.Tickets are on sale now in the LCS Advancement Office. Adult tickets are only $25, with student tickets selling for $20.A Gold Patron “Meet the Artist” package is also available, featuring preferred seating at the concert and admission to anafter-concert reception at the beautiful home of Dean and Gina Saunders.The Musical Harvest is usually the school’s primary fall fund raising event, but was postponed to February due to ascheduling conflict. All tickets purchased for the November date will be honored at the concert on February 13.Don’t miss this outstanding opportunity to enjoy one of America’s leading recording artists along with LCS studentmusicians and vocalists, all while providing critical support to Lakeland Christian.1

Boosterthon Program Raises $44,000In its second year at Lakeland Christian School, theBoosterthon program generated fun and excitementaround campus as Brave Dave and his crew tookstudents on an “EPIC Adventure!”This year’s Epic theme was an acronym that taughtstudents four very important lessons:E – Encourage: Students should build each otherup with their words and never tear others down.P – Play: It’s important for students to exerciseand play outside together, building friendships on theplayground and in the neighborhood.I – Invite: Sometimes people may be outsiders orfeel excluded from the group. Students should see otherson the sidelines and invite them into the group.C – Celebrate: Celebrating each other’s victoriesis so important. Students are not jealous of other’ssuccesses; they celebrate with them and should applaudeveryone’s accomplishments.The Boosterthon team members shared dailylessons in each elementary and middle schoolclassroom. In the evenings, students raised pledgesupport for the Fun Run, the culminating activity ofthe program.With loud music playing and cheering sections ofparents and high school students outlining the track,students ran between 25-35 laps on a special track set upin Viking Stadium. There were three separate Fun Runs:Grades K4-2 and Discovery, Grades 3-5 and Grades 6-8.At the end of the day, LCS students helped raise$44,000 for the school, which will help fund the shadingneeded for the playgrounds on the LCS campus.High schooler Houston May lendshis support to a young runner.Students in grades 3-5 take off for the first lap of their Fun Run.Boosterthon team leader “BraveDave” gets the students ready to run.2

Financial Aid FundNears Annual GoalLess than $10,000 to beRaised by Year-EndLCS is on the threshold of reaching acritical fund-raising goal for the 2011-12school year – one that makes a Christianeducation accessible for a growing numberof families. The school’s Financial AidFund now needs less than $10,000 byDecember 31 to meet an unprecedentedgoal of $440,000 for this year.Many students were able to continueat Lakeland Christian, and many newstudents were able to attend LCS for thefirst time ever because of the financialassistance the school was able to providefor this school year. The country’seconomic issues are continuing tochallenge many families’ ability to remainin the LCS “family.” The Financial AidFund goal continues to grow as a recordamount of requests are submitted duringthese years of financial hardship for somany. Monies raised through the school’sspring auction, through the MusicalHarvest and through private giving aretruly making the difference in the lives ofchildren and young people through anLCS education.Will you prayerfully consider anend-of-the-year gift to the LCS FinancialAid Fund to help us reach this year’sgoal? We want to see as many students aspossible have access to an LCS education.We want them to have the benefits ofschooling anchored in Biblical truth, andwe want them to develop relationshipswith peers and with teachers and mentorsthat can pay dividends for years to come.Your investment in the FinancialAid Fund will pay dividends for years, asLakeland Christian sharpens the mindsand shepherds the hearts of the nextgeneration. Please contact LCS Directorof Advancement Steve Wilson for moreinformation. Immediate giving is availableonline, through www.lcsonline.org. Thankyou for your kind consideration on behalfof struggling families.Campaign Nears CompletionLCS Students Benefit from $23 Million ExpansionThe funding of the most massive expansion in the 57-year history ofLakeland Christian School is nearing its long-awaited completion.More than $20 Million has been committed to this effort, which hastransformed the LCS campus in amazing ways – all for the benefit ofthe students and families who enjoy these wonderful new facilities.Through the open-hearted generosity of so many, thecampaign has provided the Elementary/Middle School building,playgrounds, the Center for Early Childhood Education, a newmaintenance facility, expanded parking, a new main entrance, andthe unrivaled Viking Stadium.The Dream Come True wrap-up campaign is now in fullswing, as the school aggressively seeks the final several million dollarsneeded to complete this bold and unprecedented endeavor. Thewrap-up effort is a top funding priority for the school for the end ofthis year and moving into 2012.Watch for more information coming soon, and ... please... even now, prayerfully consider a wrap-up commitment forthis remarkable effort that benefits scores of students throughouteach day.LCS Director of Advancement Steve Wilson is availableto gladly assist in your gift planning. He may be reached at863/688-2771 or at swilson@lcsonline.org.Limited Time! Get Brick Pavers for $100Now is a great time to order a commemorative brick paver for the Viking StadiumFan Plaza. If you order a paver by December 31, the cost is just $100 per brick.This is a $50 discount over the regular price! We want to see all of our students,families and alumni represented on the Fan Plaza. You can download an orderform on the Lakeland Christian website.You can also contact Mrs. Claudia Powellat 863-688-2771 or cpowell@lcsonline.org ifyou would like more information.3More info coming soon!

The Spiritual Distinctive of LCS By Mike Sligh Ed. D., HeadmasterWhen I was asked to identify the spiritual distinctive of LCS,my mind went immediately to the instruction in the scriptures.The Christian faith is anchored in content. The scriptures of theOld and New Testament present the history of redemption. Tobe prepared for the storms of life, our children must be anchoredin this content, not just in sentimental religious experiences.From the Bible stories of the primary grades to the Bible studymethods, theology and apologetics of the high school, LCSstudents are provided a foundation of biblical truth.But Christian schooling should encourage Christianliving, not just Christian thought. Today a K4 student and herfifth-grade buddy brought me a Thanksgiving card that theyhad made together. Cross-grade involvement provides ourstudents the opportunity not just to make cards together, but todevelop relationships with those younger and older. It providesan opportunity for service within the student body that helpsprepare them for service to the community. High school studentstutoring at Troxel House or Parker Street utilize these same skillsfor the good of children in the community.Prayer is a key element in cultivating the spiritual cultureof LCS. It starts at the top with prayer being a major componentof every meeting of the LCS board of directors. Faculty memberspray regularly for their students and for LCS alumni aroundthe world. Hundreds of “I prayed for you today” prayer cardscirculate from the board to staff, staff to staff, and teachersto students and alumni. It is not uncommon to find stacks ofprayer cards received over the years on display by seniors attheir graduation open house celebrations.The spiritual distinctive of LCS is visible in the annualhomecoming chapel. Members of the homecoming court areselected based on character qualities. Juniors and seniors sharepersonal testimonies of faith in Christ and examples of how Godis working in their lives and directing their steps.Directors of vocal and instrumental music continuallypoint to music not only as a source of pleasure to the performerand audience but also as a means of worship and praise tothe Lord. Instructors in the visual arts continually point tothe character and nature of God as source beauty from whichderived beauty flows. Creativity flows through us as imagebearers of the Creator.Coaches of athletic teams work to redeem an area of lifethat has been so distorted in our culture. This is one of the mostchallenging, yet most rewarding, areas in which to carve out aspiritual distinctive. Athletics provide the crucible to expose theneeds of our hearts. The coach is uniquely positioned to addressissues of the heart in the lives of the team.But perhaps nowhere is the spiritual distinctive moreevident as when we encounter the expressions of ourbrokenness. We are all – staff, students, parents – fallen and inneed of redemption. The journey of raising children in the midstof a post-Christian culture provides many challenges. We areconfronted with sin and failure, unmet expectations and evendisappointing moral choices. How do we face these realities?The Christian school is not a haven from the sinfulnessand brokenness of the world. The line between good and evil isnot the border of the campus. It runs down the middle of eachand every one of our hearts. The spiritual distinctive is thatwhen we are faced with our failures – as staff, as students oras parents – we are called to address our sin in the light of thegospel. We are called to discipline with the goal of repentanceand restoration. We are called to make biblical apologies toone another and to ask for forgiveness. We are called to makechanges in our behavior, not to earn favor with God, butbecause He has shown great favor to us in providing a Saviorto meet our every need.I asked a senior recently to identify one or two major ideasshe thought LCS was trying to get across to her in her thirteenyears at LCS. She replied, “That I can live my whole life inworship mode … even in math class when I don’t like math!”We can do all to the glory of God and do all as an expression ofworship, regardless of our immediate circumstances! She gets it.There is no clearer expression of the spiritual distinctive of LCS!4

Administrators Reflect onDistinctives at Each LevelAs you read in Dr. Mike Sligh’s lead feature article, the spiritualdistinctive of Lakeland Christian School is clearly evident.Secondary principal Wayne Shimko, Assistant Middle SchoolPrincipal Keith Overholt and Elementary Principal Luci O’Byrneadded their thoughts as they considered how this spiritualdistinctive plays out at each level:High School:• Faculty know the importance of growing in their walk withthe Lord through daily faculty devotions followed by leadingtheir classes in devotions at the beginning of the school day.• The new “Life Calling” class helps students focus on theirfuture from a biblical perspective.• There is a spirit of community service by school groups whotruly practice loving their neighbors.• Unity of spirit in school community exists because we prayfor one another daily in classes.• Teaching of all classes from a biblical world view whichconveys that we need not be conformed to this world buttransformed by the renewing of the our mind to impact theworld for Christ.• Discipline procedures strive to reach the heart of the studentso that behavior issues focus on student development,spiritual growth and discipline in love.• Music and athletic programs teach excellence from a viewpoint that our talents are gifts from God, and we are toglorify God through them. Thus sportsmanship is a priority,and praising God is our celebration.• Faculty know that being a role model in their daily walkbefore our students is essential.• We focus on the study of the Word of God through Bibleclasses taught by an outstanding group of Bible teachers aswell as weekly chapels with praise time led by students, andmessages focusing on spiritual truth.Middle School:• We start each day with devotions in the classroom, buildingrelationships between teachers and students.• Discipleship opportunities are planned between teachersand students.• Student-led and teacher-led Bible studies take placearound campus.• Middle school trips strive to provide distinctive biblical focus.• Sixth grade retreat, seventh grade ropes course, eighthgrade trip to Tallahassee – each trip involves devotions andintentional activities toward spiritual growth. They focus onteam building centered on the body of Christ.• Discipline situations are handled biblically. The focus is onlearning from poor decisions and working toward restoration.Discipline must involve punishment, but this is not theprimary focus. Major discipline issues or repetitive issues aredealt with looking at what Scripture says about the problem.• Chapel involves student-led worship. Speakers are fromadministration, staff, local pastors and youth pastors as wellas outside speakers. We don’t have a theme, but chapelsare focused on the teaching of scripture in a practical andapplicable way.• Understanding that God has created each child uniquelywith various strengths and learning styles, we attempt toteach in diverse ways.Elementary:• The faculty is actively growing in their own faith and thensharing that faith with the students. The faculty is keenlyaware that they serve as role models to the students.• Classes are taught from a biblical worldview.• Students focus on the study of God’s Word through Bibleclasses and weekly chapels.• Students in grades four and five are offered a missionselective course. This class, led by Mrs. Letty Lamelas, teachesstudents about what missions are, develops a profile of whomissionaries are, what they do and how God is using themlocally and globally in the world. The goal is to encouragestudents to be mission-minded by seeking and selecting aministry to serve using their gifts and talents.• The goal of discipline is to reach the student’s heart in hopesof promoting true spiritual growth.• Students are taught to love their neighbors and to pray forone another daily.5

R. P. RobbinsJanuary 17, 1922 - November 10, 2011Reflections from the Headmasteron the Life of R.P. RobbinsMr. Robbins was a board member of Lakeland Christian School fromits founding in 1954 until his retirement from the board in 2007.LCS Board of Directors, 1954-2007If you know just where to look, you can still see them… barely. Four dimples in the concrete block wall filledand painted countless times over the years. They are allthat remain from the original dedicatory plaque ceremonyin 1962. As an eighth grade student, I can still rememberfounding LCS board member R. P. Robbins, screwdriver inhand, installing the brass plaque into the front wall of thenewly constructed Lakeland Christian School building. It wasa bright, sunny Sunday afternoon, and a new era had begunfor LCS.Mr. Robbins designed those initial buildings in the shopbehind his house. We still have those original floor plans.He visited the site almost daily to check on every phase ofconstruction for that first building and for many buildingprojects that followed. He had an eye for design and functionand a vision of what could be in the future.He also had a heart for young people. I can recall Mr.Robbins laughing kindly at my excuse for why I drove thelawn tractor into a tree while trying to mow the schoolyard.On another occasion, he patiently repaired the water pipe Isheared creating a unique geyser effect in front of the school.My driving skills in 8th grade were awful, but he graciouslyendured as I learned to serve LCS in those formative years!Many years later, I remember his faith in moving thatthe board begin construction on the Blanton Center, trustingthat the Lord would provide the funding to pay for it bythe time construction was completed. The board passedhis motion, and the Lord answered his prayer. During theconstruction phase, I recall him pouring over the plans forthe layout of the gym floor of the Schroter Gymnasium. Hemade changes that made the gym far more useful than itwould have been had we followed our original design.Mr. R. P. Robbins served on the LCS Board of Directorsfrom the founding of the school in 1954 until 2007. He wasthe last survivor of a remarkable generation of leaders thatGod raised up to birth LCS and to carry it from a fledglingdream to an institution respected and known throughoutthe country. His godly, humble but passionate commitmentto LCS disdained personal attention and always sought todeflect praise to the faithfulness of the Savior. His resignationletter to the board in 2007 closed with a P.S., “Please, nofancy words, Emeritus or plaque.” I was grateful that, atcommencement that year, he let us present him with framedpictures commemorating his faithful service.I think it would be safe to say that no one had more“sweat equity” in LCS than Mr. Robbins. He had poured agreat deal of himself into LCS. Many founders with far lessinvested in an institution drift into a posture of entitlement,insisting on their own way when working with a board. Isaw several occasions when he deferred to the rest of theboard and submitted to the direction of the group, even if hedisagreed. He knew it was God’s school, not his.6

It should be noted that Mr. Robbins’ own sons never attendedLCS. They were older and LCS did not include the grade levels ofhis sons at the time. That means his entire 54-year tenure on theLCS board represented service to the Lord and to the children ofother families and not his own! I find this remarkable and wonderif I would have done the same. It is far too easy to make ministryinvolvement decisions based on “what’s in it for my family and me?”rather than the big picture of advancing God’s kingdom.When I think of the qualities of Mr. Robbins, I think of his lovefor the Lord that was so obvious when he prayed. I think of hisloving devotion to Kate, his wife of almost 70 years. They have beenthrough a lot together, and that’s the way they always did it –together. Our prayers will continue for Kate and the family in thistime of loss and transition.I smiled today thinking of the reunion in heaven with ageneration of board members and wives now known only to thisgeneration at LCS as names on buildings – Ray and Florence Snyder,Walter and Margaret Sligh, L. J. and Doris Douglass. All served LCSfaithfully; all have children serving at LCS today.Whenever I think of the legacy that Mr. R. P. Robbins left to allof us at LCS, I think of Hebrews 13:7. “Remember your leaders, whospoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way oflife and imitate their faith.”Mission Possible continued from inside front coverheart. He uses the scriptures, public and privateworship, and prayer as the means of grace to effectheart change. God also uses the combined effort ofparents, church and the Christian school to cultivatethe heart of worship in the life of a student. Worshipplaces us in proper relationship with God and withone another. If our students lack a heart attuned tothe worship of God, they will flounder not only intheir view of God, but also in their understandingof themselves.Is this a “Mission Impossible?” Absolutely not!We have been blessed with a highly skilled faculty,engaged students, supportive parents, and a greatand challenging time in which to embrace a missionof eternal significance. These are great days to beinvolved in Christian schooling! Let’s enthusiasticallyaccept the mission and see it through for the good ofour students and the glory of God.“No fancy words, Emeritus or plaques” for youMr. Robbins. Just a word from the Lord, “Well done,thou good and faithful servant. Enter into the joyof the Lord.” (Matthew 25:23)Left: Dr. Mike Sligh presents Mr. R.P. Robbins with anaward during the 2007 commencement ceremony.Right: Mr. Robbins and his wife Kate were frequentvisitors to Lakeland Christian School, shown here atGrandparent’s and Grandfriend’s Day in 2010.7

LCS MusicDepartmentAims to Advancethe KingdomThrough MusicBy Lorraine LathamThe advancement of the Kingdom throughmusic is a primary goal for the LCS musicdepartment. We envision our studentsinfluencing their churches and communitiesfor Christ through the avenue of music. Weprovide numerous opportunities throughouttheir time at LCS to foster and developtheir talents. High School students leadthe worship time in the weekly chapelservices. The high school choir takes everyopportunity to perform for our communityfrom singing at the Rotary Club Christmasluncheon to singing the National Anthemat Tiger Town. Service through music is agreat way to bring glory to Christ. Middleschool and elementary choirs also performand minister through music at area nursinghomes and churches. Throughout theLCS Choral program, strong emphasis isplaced upon the responsibility of Christianmusicians to communicate effectively thetruth of the Gospel and the Word throughthe text of each piece that is sung.The next generation of churchmusicians is being trained now.The Parents’ Perspective on theImportance of Christian SchoolingWhen asked why they choose to send their children to LakelandChristian School, here is how a few of our parents responded:• It is an outstanding education accompanied by Christian core values providedby great caring teachers at a great value. We made our final decision to moveto Lakeland after our daughter was accepted to LCS.• We value the Christian-based education that instills not only principles andvalues in our children, but also instructs them on worldviews and how tosupport their viewpoints … We especially like that prayer is taught andencouraged. Our children have become strong prayer warriors as a result!• LCS is committed to a Christian worldview, which is taught in practicallyevery subject in the school. This truly helps the child understand outside ofchurch how their Christian lives permeate every part of life. The teachersreally care about the students and even pray for them regularly.• Very simple … our children attend LCS because we are confident that thoseleading and teaching our children share our faith in Jesus Christ as Savior andLord and the desire to live a life that honors Christ and points others to him.While academic excellence, extracurricular opportunities and athletics areimportant, the bottom line for us is knowing that those we allow to influence ourchildren are partnering with us, not teaching anything contrary to our faith.• We have been at LCS now for 13 years. I am amazed at how well my oldestis prepared for college. The everyday Christian influence is like no other.Today we hear stories of what goes on in the public system, and we areblessed to have the highest level of education and the constant influenceof Christian faculty.• I send my daughter to LCS primarily because of the Christian worldview thatpermeates all aspects of the school – from academics to arts to sports toadministration. I greatly appreciate the Christian character of the teachingand administrative staff.About the Cover: At LCS, studentsare provided a solid foundation of biblicaltruth. Whether they are in the classroom, onthe playing field, on the stage or out in thecommunity, the mission of LCS is “to educatestudents in the light of God’s word to equipthem for a lifetime of learning, leadership,service and worship.” Pictured are middleschoolers Larenz Deshazor, Melanie Abbott,Julia Canady and Will Richert.

Board of Directors AdoptsMission Statement and Core ValuesClarity of mission and an understanding of thecore values of an institution are essential components ofsustaining a school’s culture. For the past several months theLCS administration, faculty and board have been involvedin a strategic planning process. On August 15, 2011, theboard of directors formally approved the following missionstatement and core values. It is important to realize that therewas no departure from the historical mission of LCS. The newlanguage reflects an effort to describe the priorities of theschool in today’s language with greater precision and clarity.The mission statement is complemented with a listingof core values that were identified to be uniquely a part ofthe LCS school culture. There are certainly other values thatwould be true in almost every Christian school, but the intentwas to be as descriptive as possible of the values that arespecific to Lakeland Christian School.Mission StatementThe mission of Lakeland Christian School is to educatestudents in the light of God’s word to equip them for alifetime of learning, leadership, service and worship.Core ValuesAuthority of scripture: The scriptures of the Old andNew Testaments are the inerrant and inspired Word of God.All members of the school community function under thisauthority and strive to apply the truths of scripture in allrelationships and activities for the glory of God and thebenefit of all.Academic priority: LCS is first and foremost aschool. Intentional consideration is given to the roles ofthe school, home and church to ensure that the schoolgives highest priority to those activities most appropriatefor the school’s unique sphere of influence. The intellectualcapacities of our students are developed to enable them tothink critically and deeply about both the Creator and thecreation. The administration and faculty are committed tothe development of instructional plans and programs thateffectively address the learning needs of all LCS students.Personal Relationships: All teaching is ultimatelyrelational. Therefore personal relationships are a highpriority at LCS. The intentional cultivation of relationshipsthat are shaped by the gospel is an essential aspect of maintaininga positive, God-honoring school climate.Educating the whole child: A variety of rigorous, engaging,academic and co-curricular activities are provided to enablestudents to identify and express the full range of their unique giftsand abilities. Educational decisions are made on the basis of what isbest for children. High levels of student participation in the variousactivities and programs enrich the school experience for everyone.Shepherding the heart: The priority in all dealings withstudents is to lovingly apply the truth of the gospel to the heart. Thegoal is to encourage the heart of the student to be turned towardthe Savior, not merely toward outward conformity. The properunderstanding of the character of God and of our standing beforeHim leads us to a response of worship and service. Preparing thestudent for the road, rather than the road for the student, is anessential aspect of this shepherding process. This priority helpsequip the student to be responsible and resourceful in life.Partnership: Parents and school personnel view one anotheras valued partners in the shared activity of Christian schooling.Mutual respect, communication and involvement by all partnersare essential for success of the mission.Importance of corporate and personal worship:The analogy of the three-legged stool is often used to illustrate theunique roles of the home, the church and the Christian school inthe life of the student and his/her family. The scriptures teach thatthe Christian life is to be lived in community. Active participationin the local church is an essential component in the life of theChristian family that partners with Lakeland Christian School.In addition to this c orporate worship, school personnel andparents are expected to give high priority to the personal spiritualdisciplines of prayer and the study of the scriptures.Stewardship: Since all we have is ultimately from God,we are committed to responsible use of all financial, physicaland human resources.Professionalism with humility: Staff members maintainprofessional credentials and training appropriate for their dutieswhile modeling a posture of the biblical servant-leader in allrelationships. Sound judgment and competence are expectedat every level of the organization.Excellence: We want to be intentional about doing theright things and doing them right.9

A Note to ParentsParents, please don’t forget all of the waysthat you can be involved in the LakelandChristian School family. Here are just a fewthings designed specifically for all parentsat LCS:ElementaryHappeningsAll Pro DadsDads, don’t forget that the All Pro Dadsgroup meets at the South Florida AvenueChick-fil-A on the third Tuesday of themonth at 6:30 a.m. All dads and theirchildren are welcome to come for a time offood, fun, prizes and activities designed tostrengthen family relationships.Parent Resource CenterDid you know that parents are able to checkout books from the LCS library? There is aspecial section of parent resources donatedby other parents and teachers. Authorsinclude Dr. James Dobson, Cynthia Tobias,Gary Smalley, Dr. Russell Barkley and manyothers. Subjects range from mothering toparenting strong-willed children to dealingwith Attention Deficit DisorderStudents had the opportunity to visit Mr.Yeater’s Creation Critter lab where theyheld snakes and other “critters.”Mr. James Moore, head of the LCSArchery Program, shows studentshow to hold the bow and arrow.Consider Donating to the Families in Crisis Scholarship FundImagine losing a parent, losing bothparents, or facing an unexpectedfamily trauma that took away the opportunityfor you to continue at LCS.Children facing crisis on the home frontneed stability in the other areas of theirlives. The last thing they should haveto deal with is changing schools andleaving the friends and teachers thatcare for them.For more than ten years, the LCSFamilies in Crisis Scholarship Fund hasenabled LCS students facing these typesof circumstances to continue at LCS.The stability of remaining with theirfriends and teachers that care has beencritical in helping these children andyoung people adjust to some very difficultsituations.The Families in Crisis ScholarshipFund has provided a vehicle for schoolfamilies and friends to provide tangibleassistance to these students in need. Theneed for the students currently beinghelped this year is $7000. We wouldlove to see this need met and additionalfunds available to meet future needs.Please consider an investment inthe lives of students who need thecontinued support of LCS. Donationsshould be designated for the Familiesin Crisis Scholarship Fund and madepayable to Lakeland Christian School.Donations to the Families in CrisisScholarship Fund are tax deductible.10

Fifth Grade MakesAnnual Trek toCamp GileadStudents dissect owl pellets to see whattypes of food the owls have been eating.Fifth graders had recreation time in the lake,where they could kayak, swim and more.When students showed up in Polk City for the 19th annualfifth grade retreat to Camp Gilead in early October, theywere greeted by the first cold front of the season, making theweather a partner in the success of this event. Eighty-fourfifth graders and forty-five parents participated in thetwo-day overnight event.This year’s theme was “In everything there is a purpose”and this theme was integrated into the various activities insome way. The devotional was shared by Pastor Jesse Sharpeon Thursday night as he emphasized Ephesians 2:10 (“we areHis workmanship”). Sharpe stressed this should be seen inhow we live our lives. Mr. Howard Bayless gave a devotionalon Friday morning, encouraging the students to come upwith a 5th grader “mission statement” to help them focus onGod’s big picture.Various activities throughout the two days:• Tie Dye: Students made their own tie dye shirt, learningabout natural and synthetic dyes and fabrics. This activityfrom Mr. Fred Wiechmann’s generation illustrates thedifferences we all have … even when we follow the samedirections we can end up very different from one another.• The Wonders of Creation:- Mr. Miller’s wildlife activities- Mr. Yeater’s Creation Critters lab- Mr. Wiechmann’s owl pellet dissection- Geo-caching the old fashion way: Orienteering with acompass. Parent leaders helped students find their wayaround the campgrounds to find a “slushie” treasure• Camp Craft: Led by Mrs. Bonnie Mosley, students made adecorative frame for their camp picture.• Archery: Mr. Moore (LCS IT and Archery Coach) and Mr.Boatright (LCS PE teacher) introduced students and parentsto the LCS “Archery in the Schools” Program.• Free time: Boating, kayaking, swimming, putt-putt golf,fishing and our infamous Nite Snipe Hike• The retreat ends each Friday with a picnic meal (this yearprovided by 5th grade parent Traci Hughes, owner ofJimbo’s BBQ)Fifth graders all made tie-dye shirts for the retreat.

Fifth Graders Skype withFox News ProducerReally? No way!! The fact that the producer just happens to bean LCS graduate made it a little easier!As a part of Kids News 5 (new elective class in fifth gradetaught by Mrs. Teresa Mullinax and Mrs. Lynne McNutt), Lanna(Daniel) Britt (Class of 2002), gave our television production classa peek into the BIG world of Fox News. She is a producer for BrettBaier’s nightly Special Report.Time and space did not thwart this interview because ofthe technology we now have on our campus. With the help ofa MacBook and a Smartboard, students chatted live with Mrs.Britt who was 900 miles away. Her image was projected ontothe SMART Board so that all of the students could see and hearher. At one point during the interview, she moved her cameraaround the room so everyone could see the conference room inWashington, D.C., where she meets with the anchors and otherproducers of the show. News reporter Shannon Bream came intothe room and stopped to talk with the students as well. What agreat opportunity for our fledgling news reporters and producersto talk with seasoned professionals!Kids News 5 began as a project last year with a small grouplead by Mrs. Mullinax. This year, the program is being offered toall fifth graders as an elective, and Mrs. McNutt is now helpingFifth graders used Skype to interview LCS alum Lanna (Daniel) Britt, a producerfor Fox News with Brett Baier.with the class. Students are learning and practicing the skills ofgathering news on our campus and then reporting it.In addition to Lanna Britt, several other alumni have playedlarge roles in developing this new program. Mrs. Luci O’Byrne, Classof 1988, is now the Elementary Principal, so she made this electiveclass possible. Luke Hearn, Class of 2005, is now working in the ITdepartment and has helped with the cameras and computers. MaryBeth Dickerson, Class of 2004, is now finishing her Masters in film inSingapore through NYU. She has provided a video camera, tripod andmicrophone for the class.Students Donate Boxes for OCCOperation Christmas Child (OCC) is one of the students’favorite missions projects each fall. Sponsored by Samaritan’sPurse, this project sends shoe boxes of gifts to children all overthe world. This year, LCS students contributed a record 264shoe boxes to the project!First grade teacher Mrs. Kay Henry coordinates the projectannually. This year, several students, staff members andparents helped her. Thanks to students Hanley Mosher, ZachVarnum, Charlotte Varnum, Chris Kitchens, Allie Frost, ChloeMines, Ian and Cole Buurma, Max and Alex Drost and AdamMines. Special thanks to Karla Mosher, who has helped for thepast seven years by going through the boxes to make sure theyare ready to ship. Mrs. Henry would also like to thank DanielleBuurma for supervising the elementary students who helpedload boxes into the van and to the Varnum family for donatingthe use of their family van to transport the shoe boxes.Of the total 264 boxes, elementary students contributed229 and secondary students turned in 35.LCS students donated more than 260 shoe boxes for needy children all over the world.

New Chess Club Debuts at LCSStudents in the new chess club at LCS arelearning one of the oldest and most strategicgames in the world. The game of chess helpsdevelop critical thinking and decision-makingskills, as well as good sportsmanship.Led by Mark Williams, a U.S. ChessFederation A-Rated Player, certified Local LevelTournament Director and the President of theLakeland Chess Club, the club involvesstudents as young as first grade. The novicegroup (Grades 1-4) and the Intermediategroup (Grades 4 and up) meet one dayeach week to practice their chess skills.This year 23 students are participating.Currently, two fourth graders – CarterFerguson and Christian Herman – competein the Polk Scholastic Chess Associationtournaments that are held Octoberthrough March of each school year.Coach Williams is preparing the otherstudents to be ready to compete in the2011-2012 tournament season.For more information, contact theElementary Office.Wiechmann Works on Making Kids WonderIn his new role as the Science Resource Educator, Mr. Fred Wiechmann is in his elementin the Wonder Room. As he works to expand the elementary science curriculum and serveas a resource for teachers, Mr. Wiechmann is taking on special experiments, organizing fieldtrips and developing hands-on activities to enhance the students’ understanding of the worldaround them. Here are just a few of the things that have taken place so far this year:• K4 classes have activities that are a connection to their letters of the week.• K5 students have weekly classes that focus on things such as ocean activities,hands-on experiences and e-books using SMART Board technology, Insects andSpiders, measurement activities, introduction to magnets, and nature hikes.• First graders have had insect units with ladybugs, crickets and ant research oncampus. The students also did a compass activity for social studies studying NSEWdirections. In a plant unit, the students raised a “tickle me plant” and had plantcenters led by parents.• Fourth graders have taken a campus hike and done activities when studyingecosystems and a chemistry lab when studying digestion.• Students in 5th grade prepared for their annual retreat by tie-dying shirts in the WonderRoom, practicing their “orienteering” skills and studying third law lab. There has also beena physical science demo of throwing a curve ball demonstrated by high school students.Kindergarten students use microscopes tostudy insects in the Wonder Room.• Discovery Blueberry Patch: Thirteen 5thgraders and older Discovery Studentsare constructing and planting tworaised blueberry beds behind the SnyderBuilding. This project is being funded by an“Agriculture in the Classroom” mini grant.• Odyssey of the Mind team formation hasbegun. There are two fourth grade teamsand three fifth grade teams being formed,along with one middle school team.• There is a 5th grade field trip planned inJanuary to Sweetwater Organic Farms inHillsborough County, which will be fundedby SWFWMD grant.Mr. Fred Wiechmann and several young students usemagnifying glasses to study ants.13

Elementary Hosts Sixth Annual Grandparents’ DayApproximately 500 grandparents andspecial grand-friends came from acrosstown and throughout the country tovisit their grandchildren for the sixthannual Grandparent’s Day celebration.The LCS campus welcomed these guestson a beautiful November morning.The event began with a specialprogram in the cafeteria, where achoir of second grade students in Mrs.Trudi Sligh’s class entertained thegrandparents. Headmaster Dr. Mike Slighand Director of Advancement Steve Wilsonwelcomed the guests and shared aboutLakeland Christian. Mrs. Julie Boyd, the VicePresident of Development at the Florida BaptistChildren’s Home, performed a humorousventriloquist act with her friend BC Homes.After the program, the grandparentsand friends had the opportunity to visit theirgrandchildren’s classrooms. The kids were ableto introduce their teachers and friends, show offtheir classrooms, work on special projectsand perform special songs and activitiesfor their grandparents.This annual event is a favoriteamong LCS students in grades K4-5.Special thanks to the planning teamof Randy Blalock, Danease Horne, LizetteBatterton, Nicky McDonald, HeatherAveritt, Payton Albritton, Candy Gordonand the host of parent volunteers whohelped make the event a success!The young students were excited to show their grandparents andgrand-friends their classrooms, as well as pose for photos with them.After a short program, grandparents visited students inthe classrooms.Julie Boyd and her friend BC Homesentertained the grandparents.New YearsResolution:Christmas Break:Do you travel orstay home?FavoriteChristmasMovie:White lights orcolored lights?How manyChristmas giftswill you givethis year?At Starbucks, Iusually order...Matthew Buchy10th GraderBe moreresponsibleStay home Elf Colored lights 10-15FrappuccinoTodd RadfordAdvanced Associate,Varsity Boys’ Basketball CoachWin more gamesthan we lose Stay homeNational Lampoon’sChristmas VacationWhite 10Coffee with Frenchvanilla creamerKaren LatimerKindergarten TeacherHaven’t thoughtof one yetTravel to MississippiHow the GrinchStole ChristmasWhite 25-30StrawberryFrappuccinoKristen Schaedel8th GraderMake a three pointerin a basketball gameTravel to TallahasseeHow the GrinchStole ChristmasColored 15Double ChocolateChip FrappuccinoLydia KinneySchool NurseTo runYOURTURN!Stay home, excepta trip to the DisneycampgroundNational Lampoon’sChristmas Vacation14White30 people/60 giftsPumpkin Spice Latte

LCS Students Chosen forAll-County ChorusEighteen LCS students were chosen to participate in the 2011 PolkAll-County Choruses held on November 14-15 at Florida SouthernCollege. These students were chosen by vocal audition and participatedin performance with approximately 300 students chosen from PolkCounty schools under the direction of master choral clinicians. Thestudents receiving this honor were:High School Mixed Chorus: Amanda Carl, Emily Carl,Christopher Greene, Katie Greene, Mixon Holmes; Junior High MixedChorus: Julia Canady, Kara Stacy, Vaviel Verner; 6th Grade TrebleChorus: Kylie Beaudreault, Brooke Hammack, Katie Hannum, VictoriaKelley, Taylor Langley, Ashlyn Love, Juliana Miller, Hannah Mowrer,Maddie Richert, Anna RothSenior Band Student Selected to Marchin Macy’s ParadeCameron Underwood, a senior atLakeland Christian School, was selectedto participate in the 2011 Macy’s GreatAmerican Marching Band as one ofthe select number of students fromFlorida. The band celebrated the 85thanniversary of the Macy’s ThanksgivingSenior Cameron Underwood, shown hereDay Parade and took an honor position with LCS Band Director Chuck Fulton, wasselected to perform with the 2011 Macy’sin the parade on November 24, 2011.Great American Marching Band.Students were selected based on theirmusical ability and past achievements. The opportunity was open to studentsfrom more than 14,000 high schools across the United States.Stepping off from Central Park, the band was cheered by 3.5 million livespectators, before arriving at Macy’s flagship store for their national performancefor more than 50 million TV viewers watching the broadcast live on NBC.The students had the chance to participate in this prestigious bandwith more than 200 students representing every state. The musicians, underthe direction of Dr. Richard Good, Auburn University; and Ohio StateUniversity’s Dr. Jon Woods, was complemented by approximately 50 flagsand dancers choreographed by Greg Lagola of the famed Cadets DrumCorp and WGI Sport of the Arts Marketing Manager Bart Woodley.The students also had the opportunity to attend a motivationalseminar led by Fran Kick. Kick is an author, educational consultant andprofessional speaker who knows What Makes Kids KICK! He is the creatorand presenter of KICK IT IN ® a series of self-motivational personal leadershippresentations and materials.In addition to marching in the parade, all selected participants’ packageplans included meals, lodging and New York City sightseeing (WTC TributeCenter, Top of the Rock, Thanksgiving dinner/dance and Broadway show).Both secondary and elementary musicians participated in theannual Ridge Music Teachers’ Multiple Piano Festival.LCS Pianists Participate inAnnual FestivalCongratulations to the following students whoparticipated in the Ridge Music Teachers’ MultiplePiano Festival on Saturday, November 12, at LakelandChristian School: Lauren Cardosi, Rachel Chapman,Rebecca Chapman, AbiGrace Davis, Zenna Franco,Amielle Ingalla, Courtney Miles, Hannah Miller, EmmaPetcoff, Stephanie Powers, Abby Simpson, Kara Stacy,Vaviel Verner and Jakob Witty.Students played their pieces as an ensembledirected by Brandon Fung, husband of our own pianoteacher/choir accompanist, Christy Fung.It was a great experience for young pianists to learnto play together as a team and watch a director. Thiswill later prepare them for positions as accompanistsfor church work or soloists, etc.Upper level students were assigned to be partnerswith the younger students. They formed new friendshipsand served as mentors to these budding pianists.There were a total of 55 students participating in thefestival. The LCS pianists were joined by students fromother local Polk County private teachers in the association.Mrs. LorraineLatham workswith two ofher pianists toprepare for thePiano Festival.

Four members of the Class of2011 were named AP ScholarsLCS Golf Tournament Celebrates 20th Anniversarywith Distinction.Garrett DoddAngela DouglasCarrie KirbyJustin MiddletonEighteen Earn AP Scholar AwardsThirteen graduates and threeseniors from LCS have earned AP ScholarAwards at Lakeland Christian Schoolin recognition of their exceptionalachievement on AP Exams.The College Board’s AdvancePlacement Program ® (AP ® ) provideswilling and academically preparedstudents with the opportunity to takerigorous college-level courses while stillin high school and to earn college credit,advanced placement or both for successfulperformance on the AP Exams. About18 percent of the more than 1.8 millionstudents worldwide who took AP Examsperformed at a sufficiently high level toalso earn an AP Scholar Award.Four students qualified for the APScholar with Distinction Award by earningan average score of at least 3.5 on all APExams taken and scores of 3 or higher onfive or more of these exams. These studentsare Garrett Dodd, Angela Douglas, CarrieKirby and Justin Middleton.One student – Michelle Jackson –qualified for the AP Scholar with HonorAward by earning an average score ofat least 3.25 on all AP Exams taken andscores of 3 or higher on four or more ofthese exams.Thirteen students qualified for the APScholar Award by completing three or moreAP Exams with scores of 3 or higher. The APScholars are Taylor Allegood, Blake Averitt,Erica Baker, Stephanie Baker, Emily Bolter,Nikki Chmura, Claire Jarvis, CourtneyMadden, Zachary Martinez, T. Buddy Miller,Luis Sierra, Emily Tan and Zoe Wilson.Of this year’s award recipients at LCS,three were juniors at the time of the test:Erica Baker, Claire Jarvis and ZacharyMartinez. These students have anotheryear in which to complete college-levelwork and possibly earn a higher-level APScholar Award.Atkinson Chosen forGirls’ StateLCS senior Ciara Atkinsonwas selected to attendthe American LegionAuxiliary Girls Stateprogram at Florida StateUniversity and the statecapitol this past July.One of only two thatwere chosen to attendfrom the local AmericanSenior Ciara Atkinsonattended the Girls’ StateProgram this past summer.Legion post, Ciara was selected based on schoolrecommendation, scholastic ability and a personalinterview process from several women membersof the American Legion Auxiliary. She had theopportunity to study local, county and stategovernment processes in this non-partisan mockgovernment. Since 1938, the Girls State programhas attempted to instill the youth of America alove of God and country and to stimulate a desireto protect the privileges and responsibilities of ourdemocratic form of government.Southeastern Professor VisitsHigh School EnglishOn September 8, Timothy Kirk, professor of EnglishLiterature at Southeastern University, presented a dramaticreading of Jonathan Edwards’ laudable sermon, “Sinners in theHands of an Angry God” to Mrs. Melissa Henson’s 11th gradeAmerican Literature class. Students pre-read the sermon to gainunderstanding and focus on Edwards’ figurative language used topersuade his congregation to have faith in God.The dramatic reading of thesermon allowed students to hear theemphasized points Edwards madeto his congregation to give themperspective on their sin and need ofrepentance and acceptance of Jesus.After the reading and discussionled by Professor Kirk, the studentsgained a better perspective ofcolonial literature, the Puritan ideal.Professor Timothy Kirk presentedJonathan Edwards’ famous sermon to Mrs. Henson’s junior English class.16

Leadership Rocks Conference Challenges Students By the Eighth Grade Leadership ClassIs lying REALLY wrong? Is the BibleREALLY true? Why? Have you everconsidered these questions? Several LCShigh school students along with the8th grade Teen Leadership Class wereasked to consider these issues and manyothers at this year’s Leadership RocksConference in Orlando, FL. This one-dayevent focused on how to think, dreamand lead as a Christ-centered leader.The master of ceremonies wasBrent Crowe, a well-known author,speaker and Vice President of StudentLeadership University. The keynotespeaker was author, Christian theologianand apologist, Dr. Josh McDowell.He challenged the participants to askMr. Keith Overholt,Mr. Darren Copelandand Mr. Rob Beaudreaulthad the opportunity tomeet Dr. Josh McDowellat the Leadership Rocksconference.questions, seek Biblically sound answersand be able to communicate those beliefswith confidence, passion and clarity.Students Participate in Summer SLU TrainingFor the past several yearsOlivia Wiles and AndrewLCS has been partneringwith Student LeadershipUniversity (SLU) to provideleadership training for manyof our students. This summermore than 65 studentsparticipated in two levelsof training.The first level oftraining takes place inOrlando and focuses onpreparing to be a leaderStudents in the SLU 201 program visited Washington, D.C. this past summer.Williams. The group wasled by Mr. Keith Overholt,Mr. Rob Beaudreault, MissJenny Boulet, Mr. Greg Toy,Mrs. Donna Toy and Mr.Carlos Martinez.The second level ofleadership training takesplace in Washington D.C.Here the students look atleaders throughout historyand learn valuable leadershipfrom within. You can’t lead other people in the right directionif you’re not ready to lead. The students had a great timeinteracting with each other and learning leadership lessons atplaces like Universal Studios and Sea World.The SLU 101 students included Skye Allen, Sydney Collins,Blake Crosby, Paxton Evans, Amanda Folk, Gage Frier, MeganGordon, Sarah Hall, Matthew Henderson, Alex Holmes, ZoeHolmquist, Joey Hungerford, Bryon Kelley, Sarah Kettlekamp,Jake Kinney, Melissa Lamelas, Mary Lanzino, Kendra Lehner,Roman Mancini, Joshua Martinez, Patrick McDaniel, KayleeMills, Sam Moseley, Kayla Mudger, Jonathan Murray, ChaseNaughton, Mara Parks, Kendal Plunkett, Madison Sabat, KatieSaunders, Tucker Scruggs, Katie Smith, Vail Strazzulla, ConnorSutton, James Toy,lessons that they can apply to the future. Students get to interactwith many present leaders in Washington D.C. such as ReverendBarry Black, Chaplain of the U.S. Senate.SLU 201 students included Alex Babcock-Latta, ScottBenton, Shane Buchanan, Caroline Cleghorn, Hannah Duncan,Spookie Eaves, Kyle Hulbert, Byron Kelley, Sarah Kettelkamp,Marcus Mancini, Caleb McDonald, Meredith Munson, JonathanMurray, Carter Overholt, Stephanie Powers, Kaylyn Sizemore,Ocean Walters-Carlson, Brooks Wilsman and Brooks Wilson.The group was led by Mr. Keith Overholt, along with Mr. andMrs. Glen Duncan.A highlight of this year’s trip was a wreath-laying ceremonyat the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier where LCS student HannahDuncan was chosen to have the honor of laying the wreath.17

Student Archers Compete in World TournamentAfter a strong showing at the National Archery in Schools Program(NASP) National Tournament in Kentucky this past May, the LCSArchery Team was invited to attend the NASP World Competition heldin October at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex in Orlando.The 17-member team, coached by James and Barb Moore andSue Wilsman, tallied 3,015 points and a 13th place finish in the NASPWorld High School Division.Jessie Andrews was the top shooter on the LCS team with a scoreof 276 points (including 15 bulls-eyes). Garrison Hodge finished with ascore of 269 (14 bulls-eyes), and Makaylee Graves tallied 262 points(10 bulls-eyes).Congratulations to the LCS team members: Jessie Andrews,Garrison Hodge, Makaylee Graves, Ryan Harper, Brooke Wilsman,Alex Babcock-Latta, Ethan Brannon, Cole Radford, Jake Albritton,Kyle Hulbert, Matthew Henderson, Austin Berges, Sydney White,Danae Drake, Courtney Wells, Andrew Tew and Ben Richardson.Top: LCS middle schooler Jake Albritton prepares to take a shot.Left: The LCS Archery Team competed in the NASP World Tournament.Uria, Smithson Named 2011Homecoming King and QueenOn Friday, September 30, seniors Craig Uria and Jenna Smithson were chosen by theirpeers as this year’s Homecoming King and Queen. Juniors Phil Wilsman and Kirsti Mutzwon the titles of prince and princess.The crowning of the royalty on Friday evening and the “Southern Nights” themedbanquet on Saturday night marked the conclusion of another exciting Spirit Week andHomecoming celebration. Last year’s king and queen, Brent Adriano and Emily Tan, bothmade the trip back to Viking Stadium to pass on their titles to the deserving candidates.Other Homecoming representatives were Reid Reynolds and Jamie Shofner(freshmen), Ocean Walters-Carlson and Brooks Wilsman (sophomores), Patrick Lucasand Stephanie Powers (juniors), Andrew Williams and Courtney Miles (juniors), MarkMutz and Emily Behrens (seniors), Mitch Devore and Caitlin Robb (seniors), DanielFirmin and Nicky Aspinwall (seniors), and Zach Varnum and Cailey Bates (seniors).At the Homecoming banquet, high school students arrived to a tastefully decoratedcafeteria full of Southern charm where they enjoyed a Singing Bee-style competition andsnacks. The evening concluded with the introduction of the new homecoming royalty.Top right: Seniors Craig Uria and Jenna Smithson were chosen by their peers as this year’sLCS Homecoming king and queen.Bottom right: Juniors Phil Wilsman and Kirsti Mutz were named this year’sHomecoming prince and princess.18

Alumni News2000sKimberly Ebersole (’07) and Danny Infield were married September 17, 2011, and reside in Duluth, Georgia.Joshua (‘03) and Greta (DeLange, ‘04) Friend, along with daughter Corrianne (now 2) welcomed AmeliaGrace to their family, March 14, 2011. She weighed 8 lbs., 10 oz. and was 20 inches long. The Friend familyresides in Crestview, Florida.Note to Alumni Parents:If your former student nolonger lives in your homebut still receives mailfrom Lakeland Christianat your address, pleasee-mail Claudia Powell atcpowell@lcsonline.orgto update their alumniinformation.Robyn Radford Pospichal (‘03) and husband Eric welcomed their daughter, AllisonMarie, into the family on October 12, 2011. She weighted 6 lbs., 10 oz. and was 19 incheslong, with a head full of curly dark brown hair.Chuck Anderson (‘02) graduated on December 9, 2011, with a Master of Divinity (MDiv)from the School of Theology at the Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville,Kentucky. Chuck will return to Lakeland after graduation.1990sMinda Walls Henry (’99), husband Dustin and son Fischer Travis (now 3½) welcomedOwen William to their family on November 26, 2010. The Henry family resides inWichita Falls, Texas.Corrianne andAmelia Grace FriendChristopher Sweet (’96) and wife Kristen welcomed their adorable adopted daughter, Lindy Noelle, to theirfamily on April 28, 2011. The Sweet family resides in Birmingham, Alabama.Allison Marie PospichalWe love to hear from you. News about you is important to us and to your former classmates.Please e-mail Claudia Powell at cpowell@lcsonline.org. Planning your class reunion? Contact Director of Community RelationsJulie Rice, at 863-688-2771, ext. 236, and she will arrange for use of facilities and will offer other helpful tips.Classes Reunite for Major MilestonesThe Class of 1986gathers to celebratetheir 25th high schoolreunion.Fischer Travis andOwen William HenryMembers of theClass of 1991marked their20th reunion thispast summer.1919Christopher Sweet andLindy Noelle

Vikings Athletes Compete Well, Finish StrongAcross Polk County, Central Florida and throughout the State, the Viking athletic program is consistentlyrecognized for being strong competition year after year. The 2011 fall sports season was no differentas old records were replaced with new ones, District trophies were collected and athletes competedat the State level. Here is a brief recap of the fall sports season:Cross Country Junior Mallory White and seniorSpookie Eaves, longtime friends• At the City meet, the girls’ varsitycross-country team finished 1st place,and the boys’ team finished in 6th place.The girls were led by Mallory White, whowon the City meet with a time of 20:16.Spookie Eaves took 2nd place in 21:09.For the boys’ team, senior Mark Mutz wonthe individual title with a time of 16:45.• At the slow and soggy Polk CountyCross Country Championships onOctober 29, White and Mutz claimed theindividual titles once again. Mutz ranthe course in 16:17. White finished in atime of 20:34, just seven seconds aheadof teammate Eaves, who claimed 2ndplace at the meet. The girls’ team wonthe Polk County meet, and the boys’team finished in 8th place.• At the Class 1A, District 9 meet, theLady Vikings again claimed 1st place,while the boys’ team finished in 3rdplace. Mutz won the boys’ race witha time of 16:33, while White won thegirls’ title in 20:01. Eaves finished in2nd place.• Mutz finished in 2nd place at theRegional meet on November 10 with atime of 15:50. White and Eaves finishedin 4th and 5th places respectively.• At the State meet at Little EvergladesRanch in Dade City, senior Mark Mutzclaimed a 4th place finish with a5K time of 15:58.46. His time markedthe highest among all Polk Countyrunners at the State meet. TeammatesMallory White led the Viking girls’team with an individual 22nd placefinish. The girls’ team finished in11th place.and teammates, had astrong season. Malloryclaimed first placeand Spookie finishedsecond at the City,County and Districtcross country meets.Senior Mark Mutz dominated Class 1A cross country this season,winning the City, County and District meets before claiming a 4thplace finish at the State meet in November.Golf• The girls’ golf team finished their season with a3rd place District finish. Eighth grader SavannahCollier had a team best of 107, which included abirdie on the 8th hole of River Greens Golf Course inAvon Park. Ashlynn Joyner shot a 109. Anna Lanzinohad a 113, and Katie Morrow finished with a 124.Eighth grader Savannah Collier hada team best 107 at the District meet.• The boys’ varsity golf team earned several 1st placefinishes this season, with wins over schools such asSanta Fe, Tenoroc, Avon Park, All Saints, Fort Meadeand Frostproof. The team finished 3rd in the Districttournament with a team score of 341. Blake Crosbyand Trent Harris led the Vikings, each with a score of83. Senior Jordan Green finished with an 87.20

Volleyball• The Viking varsity volleyball teamfinished the season with a record of 16-10.• After defeating Fort Meade in theDistrict semifinal game, the Lady Vikesdropped a heartbreaking District finalgame to McKeel Academy, taking itto five sets before losing 15-7 inthe final tie-breaking set.• The District loss to McKeelsnapped a six-seasonDistrict championshipwin streak.• The JV volleyball team finished witha record of five wins and 10 losses.• Both middle school teams (A and B)had strong seasons as each finishedwith a record of 9-3.The Viking varsity volleyballteam was led by seniorsMeagan Palm, Ciara Atkinson,Alison Sizemore, Emily Behrens,Ashley Abbott, Molly Riceand Lacie Aldridge.Swim/Dive• The girls’ swim team earned a 2nd place finish and the boys’ team a 3rdplace finish at the Lakeland City meet on October 6.• At the county meet, the girls’ swim team once again took a 2nd place finish,while the boys’ team finished in 9th place. Senior Mitch Devore claimed a 2ndplace individual finish in the dive competition with 221.65 points.• After a concussion forced him to sit out of the 2010 District meet, Devorewon this year’s District diving title with 422.70 points – 43.10 points ahead ofthe 2nd place finisher. Stephen Mutz finished in 7th place in the District divingcompetition.• Both the boys’ and girls’ teams earned a 3d place District finish. ChloeWineiger led the Vikings with a 1st place finish in the 100 fly and a 2nd placefinish in the 200 individual medley.• Devore represented LCS at the State swim meet at the YMCA Aquatic Centerin Orlando on November 11, where he placed 14th with 349.75 points.Senior Mitch Devore finished 14th in the State dive meet.21

Under the direction of new head coach Wayne Peace, theViking Varsity football team opened up the season with a38-15 win over Calvary Christian in the annual Kick Off Classicin Viking Stadium.The Vikes started off the regular season play with a 49-35 winover Bradenton Christian School. Freshman quarterback ChristianAlexander threw for 255 yards and four touchdowns – just in thefirst half. Senior Michael Wheary had three touchdown catchesof the game. Freshman T.J. Simmons ran for two touchdowns,including one for 48 yards.After falling to Clearwater Central Catholic (20-6) andEvangelical Christian (54-28), the Vikings won two straight athome, easily handling Bishop McLaughlin Catholic (48-14) andJohn Carroll Catholic (41-3).A hard-fought 41-35 victory over Frostproof High School onNovember 4 forced a three-way District tie-breaker between LCS,Frostproof and Cardinal Mooney on Monday, November 7.Ending the Vikings’ hope of playing in their first Districttournament, Frostproof came out on top of this one-quartertie-breaker game over the Vikings by the score of 6-0.The Vikings ended their regular season with a record of 7-4with a big 46-30 win over local rival Santa Fe Catholic. Freshmanrunning back T.J. Simmons ran for six Viking touchdowns andtallied 135 rushing yards for the game. Senior Michael Whearytallied 145 passing yards with one touchdown.• Many records were broken this season:Most receptions in a game: Wheary, 12Most receptions in a season: Wheary, 41Most touchdown passes caught in a season: Wheary, 15Most touchdown passes caught in a career: Wheary, 15Most 100-yard games receiving in a season: Wheary, 5Most 100-yard games receiving in a career: Wheary, 5Most receiving yards in a game: Wheary, 190Most receiving yards in a season: Wheary, 970Most passes completed in a game: Alexander, 15New head coach Wayne Peace led the Vikings in a record-breaking season.Most yards passing in a game: Alexander, 255Most yards passing in a season: Alexander, 1,633Most touchdown passes thrown in a season:Alexander, 20Most touchdown passes thrown in a career:Alexander, 25Most 100-yard games passing in a season: Alexander, 8Most 100-yard games passing in a career: Alexander, 11Most rushing touchdowns in a game: Simmons, 6Most rushing touchdowns in a season: Simmons, 20Most rushing yards in a season: Simmons, 1,487Most 100-yard games rushing in a season: Simmons, 8Highest punting average for a season: Thomas, 38.6• The middle school football team finished the season with arecord of 3-4.Most passes completed in a season: Alexander, 8822

Freshman T.J. Simmonsbroke the school recordfor most touchdownsin a game (6) andseason (20). Photo byWayne KoehlerFreshman quarterback Christian Alexander broke several Vikingrecords this season. Photo by Wayne KoehlerFACA NamesFootball AwardsWinnersThe Florida Athletic Coaches Associationhas named the 2011 Small-School Selections,and several LCS players were honored.Congratulations to the following studentathletes on earning this distinction:First Team Offense:T.J. SimmonsSenior Michael Wheary caught 15 Viking touchdown passesthis season. Photo by Wayne KoehlerMichael WhearyRyan CollierFirst Team Defense:Caleb Thomas23

Gifts TO L a k e l a n d C h r i s t i a n S c h o o lOn behalf of the students we serve, a heartfelt thanks to the following generous persons and companies who have partneredwith LCS by providing a gift to the ministry. We were blessed by:Dr. and Mrs. Phillip AbbottMr. and Mrs. Tom AbramsonDr. and Mrs. Ruben AdrianoMr. and Mrs. Keith AlbrittonMrs. Elizabeth AllenMr. and Mrs. David AndersenMr. and Mrs. Dave AplinMr. and Mrs. Walter Arnold, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth AtkinsonMr. and Mrs. Robert Averitt, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Philip BagwellDr. and Mrs. Robert BaskinMr. and Mrs. Howard BaylessMrs. Thomas BaylessMr. and Mrs. Andy BeanMr. and Mrs. Robert Beasley, Sr.Mr. and Mrs. Robert BeaudreaultMr. and Mrs. Donald BellarMr. and Mrs. Ralph BlalockMr. and Mrs. Jim BoatwrightMr. and Mrs. Jim BoothMr. and Mrs. Damion BoyceMr. and Mrs. Donald BradleyMr. and Mrs. Kenneth BrannenMrs. Mary Ann BreathitMr. and Mrs. Glenn BrownDr. and Mrs. Kevin BrowneMr. and Mrs. Robert BryantMr. and Mrs. Don BusingMr. and Mrs. Mark CabreraMr. and Mrs. Bill CampbellDr. and Dr. Richard CardosiMr. and Mrs. Brian CarrollMr. and Mrs. Bill ChamberlinMr. and Mrs. James ChismMr. and Mrs. Daniel ClineMr. and Mrs. Gregory ColemanMr. and Mrs. Ron CopelandMr. and Mrs. Thomas CrawfordMs. Claudia CrespoMrs. Brigette CroceMrs. Jackie DavisRev. and Mrs. Monty DavisMr. and Mrs. Ron DenneyMr. and Mrs. Joseph DiCesareMrs. Barbara EddsMr. and Mrs. David EdwardsMiss Susan EllisRev. and Mrs. Roger EvansMs. Marne FauberMrs. Denise FieMrs. Nancy FisherMr. and Mrs. Bob ForlawMr. and Mrs. Timothy FrostMr. and Mrs. Warren FullerMr. and Mrs. Charles FultonMr. and Mrs. Louis GarrardMr. and Mrs. Bud GibsonMr. and Mrs. GuillermoGonzalez-TorresMr. and Mrs. Clint GordonMs. Ann GrassfieldDr. and Mrs. Graham GreeneMr. and Mrs. Richard GreeneMr. and Mrs. Angelo HallMr. and Mrs. James HallMs. Patsy HamMrs. Catherine HamiltonMr. and Mrs. Rob Harper, IVMs. Barbara HartMs. Terri HeacoxMr. and Mrs. Holland HendersonMr. and Mrs. Terry HendersonMr. and Mrs. Rex HenryMrs. Robert HightowerMr. and Mrs. Keith HodgeMr. and Mrs. Ed HollwayMr. and Mrs. Boyce HorneMrs. Debbie HoughtonMr. and Mrs. Gordon HoweMr. and Mrs. Thomas HuckeryMr. and Mrs. Mark HulbertRev. and Mrs. Gary HullMr. and Mrs. LaMar HuntMrs. Mimi JenkoMr. and Mrs. Daryl JohnsonMr. and Mrs. Kenneth JohnsonMr. and Mrs. Stephen JonesMrs. Carolyn JustusDr. and Mrs. Derek KeenanMs. Tracy KelleyMr. and Mrs. Robert KettlekampMr. and Mrs. Mark KirbyMr. and Mrs. Curt KitchensMr. and Mrs. Ray KriegbaumDr. and Mrs. Donald LangleyMr. and Mrs. Scott LangstonRev. and Mrs. Michael LathamMr. and Mrs. Robert LatimerMr. and Mrs. Joel Love, Jr.Mr. and Mrs. Robert MaceyMr. and Mrs. Robert MaddenMr. and Mrs. George MaguireMr. and Mrs. Alan ManciniDr. and Mrs. Daniel MarichalMr. and Mrs. B.J. MasonMr. and Mrs. Richard MasonMr. and Mrs. Todd MaxwellMr. and Mrs. Mike McCormickDr. and Mrs. Gary McDanielMr. and Mrs. Tom McLaughlinMr. and Mrs. Gary MehlerMr. and Mrs. Timothy MerchantMr. and Mrs. William MiddletonMr. and Mrs. Corey MillerMr. and Mrs. David MillerDr. and Mrs. Mark MinesMrs. Norma MooreMr. and Mrs. Edward Mora, Jr.Mrs. Bonnie MosleyMr. and Mrs. Eric MowrerMr. and Mrs. Birk MullinaxRev. and Mrs. Edward MurphyMrs. Bennie Jo MurrayMr. and Mrs. Bradley MurrayMr. and Mrs. Mike Musick, Sr.Mr. and Mrs. Bill MutzMr. and Mrs. O.U. MutzMr. and Mrs. Robert MyhrerMr. and Mrs. Alan NaughtonMr. and Mrs. Chris O’ByrneMiss Ellen OncuMrs. Judy OncuMr. and Mrs. Lee PattesonMr. and Mrs. Wayne PeaceMr. and Mrs. Cory PetcoffMr. and Mrs. Ray PhillipsMrs. Marlene PittsMr. and Mrs. Samuel PortlockMr. and Mrs. Robert Powell, Jr.Ms. Angela RegisterMr. and Mrs. Buddy RegisterMr. and Mrs. Bart RichertMr. Donald RichertMr. and Mrs. Brad RideoutMr. and Mrs. James RobersonRev. and Mrs. Robert RobertsMr. and Mrs. Tom RockerMr. and Mrs. Marshall RoweMr. and Mrs. Dale RussellMr. and Mrs. Harold SaleMr. and Mrs. Gary SawyerMr. Philip SebringMr. and Mrs. Bud SerleticMr. and Mrs. Christopher ShawMr. and Mrs. Wayne ShimkoMr. and Mrs. Ronald SinglerDr. and Mrs. Mike SlighDr. and Mrs. Stephen SlighMiss Nancy SnyderMr. and Mrs. Joseph St. JohnMr. and Mrs. Geoff StablerMr. and Mrs. Michael StacyMr. and Mrs. Tom StandiferMr. and Mrs. Bill StinsonMrs. John W. StoneDr. and Mrs. Paul SuichMr. and Mrs. Michael SuttonMr. and Mrs. John SzydlowskiMr. and Mrs. Ed TatlianMr. and Mrs. Eric TorresMrs. Evelyn TowlerDr. and Mrs. John TuckerMr. and Mrs. Antony TurbevilleMr. and Mrs. Jim TurlingtonMr. and Mrs. Conrad VarnumMr. and Mrs. Kevin WasilewskiMr. and Mrs. Donny WatsonMr. and Mrs. Ernie WhiteMr. and Mrs. David WickenkampMr. and Mrs. Fred WiechmannMr. and Mrs. Jim WilbanksMr. and Mrs. James WilliamsMr. and Mrs. Mike WilsonMr. and Mrs. Stephen WilsonMr. and Mrs. Clifford WrightMr. and Mrs. Glenn WrightMr. Lindsey YatesMr. and Mrs. Randy YoungDr. and Mrs. David YrastorzaMr. and Mrs. John ZecklerBurnetti Children’s Foundation, Inc.Harrell’s Fertilizer Group, Inc.The Estate of Mr. Thomas GivanLarsonAllen, LLPLive the Life MinistriesMurray Equipment Sales, Inc.Northwestern MutualFinancial NetworkOutsource Management SolutionsPublix Super Markets Charities, Inc.Sligh Clinic of ChiropracticUnited Way of Tri-County, Inc.Wall-Foss FinancialGive to LCS ThroughPayroll DeductionDid you know that youcan donate to LakelandChristian School through yourcompany’s payroll deductionprogram? If you would liketo know how, please contactthe LCS Advancement Officeat 863-688-2771.24

Living MemorialsIt is a joy to receive gifts that are sent to acknowledge a loved one.We are grateful for the gifts received from the following:In memory of: Mr. Rich McDonaldGiven by: Bank of Central FloridaMr. and Mrs. Robert Beasley, Sr.Mr. and Mrs. Paul BlalockMr. and Mrs. Jim BoothMs. Sharon BradleyMrs. Lynn BranhamMr. and Mrs. James ByrdCarr’s Hill Baptist ChurchDr. and Mrs. Alex CayonConibear RV CenterMr. and Mrs. Ray DouthitEsquire Beauty, Inc.Farnsworth & Mullins, PA CPAFirst Baptist Church at the MallMr. and Mrs. Rob Harper, IVMr. and Mrs. Winfred HarrellMr. and Mrs. Ronald HerringMr. and Mrs. Franklin HowellMr. and Mrs. Frank HowesMrs. Carolyn JustusMr. David JustusMr. Bill JustusLCS AppreciatesMs. Diane KlagesLand South GroupMr. and Mrs. Otto LehmanMr. and Mrs. Robert LeroyMr. and Mrs. Tommy McDonaldRev. and Mrs. Edward MurphyMr. and Mrs. Bradley MurrayMr. and Mrs. Bill MutzOakbridge Owners Association #2Ms. Angela RegisterRev. and Mrs. Robert RobertsMr. and Mrs. Francis SavageMr. Fritz SimonechtDr. and Mrs. Mike SlighMr. and Mrs. Robert SpignerMr. and Mrs. James StrikeRev. and Mrs. Jay StrikeMr. and Mrs. Antony TurbevilleMr. and Mrs. Fred WiechmannMr. Lindsey YatesSummit Consulting –Audit DepartmentVector Real Estate Group, LLCLakeland Christian School is the beneficiary of many donatedgoods and services provided by school families and other friends.These gifts enable higher levels of excellence campus-wide.Mrs. Robbie Emert – For the donation of books,including a chemistry textbook and SAT prep book.Mrs. Shari Bradley – For the donation of artificialflowers and ribbons to the elementary art program.Brad and Melissa Murray – For the donation of“Make Music to the Lord” t-shirts to the LCSMusic Department.Publix Supermarket Charities – For the donationof office supplies.Rita Fandrich – For the donation of music books.Jane Davis – For the donation of musicalinstruments and other miscellaneous itemsincluding clip art books and supplies for theelementary art class.Nathan Hesseltine – For the donation of stickynotes, hand wipes and other office supplies.Trudy (Carder) Marvel – For the donation of usedbusiness machines.Donald and Patricia Haggerty – For the donationof 10 chess sets with pieces, boards and bags.Library DonationsIn memory of: Cooper NaughtonGiven by: Mr. and Mrs. Larry NaughtonIn memory of: Mrs. Dot CrumGiven by: Mr. and Mrs. George MaguireIn memory of: Mr. Calvin EllisGiven by: Miss Susan EllisIn memory of: Mr. Doug GreenGiven by: Mr. and Mrs. John DouglassMr. and Mrs. Angelo HallMs. Diane KlagesMr. and Mrs. Kevin KnowltonIn memory of: Mr. Mike ElliottGiven by: Ms. Diane KlagesIn memory of: Mr. Vince StrawbridgeGiven by: Mr. and Mrs. John DouglassIn memory of: Mr. Elmer “Bud” WeaverGiven by: Mr. and Mrs. John DouglassIn memory of: Mrs. Kathy AsbridgeGiven by: Ms. Barbara HartMr. and Mrs. Robert MaddenDr. and Mrs. Daniel MarichalDr. and Mrs. Jose MarichalMr. and Mrs. Mike McCormickMr. and Mrs. Don PikeIn honor of: Ms. Sharon MillerGiven by: Ms. Barbara HartIn memory of: Brad HicksGiven by: Mr. and Mrs. Blake MoultonIn memory of: Mr. Herbert PeasleeGiven by: Mrs. Robert HightowerThe Lakeland Christian Library staff appreciates the generosity of thosewho have provided recent book donations. The library counts on the regularcontributions of school families to expand their collection for students.Mr. and Mrs. James AspinwallBryce BagwellLogan BarrandMr. and Mrs. Troy BattertonAbiGrace and Josh DavisMr. and Mrs. Brian CrosbyMr. and Mrs. Michael LainThe Lanzino-Jones FamilyMr.and Mrs. Gary LaPorteMr. and Mrs. Steve LivesayMr. and Mrs. Brian RodockerMr. and Mrs. Fred SalmonMr. and Mrs. John Szydlowski25

1111 Forest Park Street • Lakeland, Florida 33803 • 863-688-2771 • www.lcsonline.orgNon-Profit Org.U.S. POSTAGEPAIDLakeland, FLPermit No. 133The Viking is published quarterly by Lakeland Christian School, 1111 Forest Park St., Lakeland, Florida 33803Welcome Wednesdays Continue this WinterFamilies interested in Lakeland Christian School will have several opportunities to visit LCS this winter and springduring one of the six remaining Welcome Wednesday Admission Open House events. The upcoming dates are January11, January 25, February 8, February 22, March 7 and April 18. Please RSVP to Mrs. Julie Rice, Director of CommunityRelations, at jrice@lcsonline.org if you would like to attend.Current families – don’t forget to be thinking of families you can invite to a Welcome Wednesday. Please pass out thecards you received in the fall. Need more invitations for your card pack? Just contact Julie Rice!MARK YOUR CALENDAR✁Do you know someone who might beinterested in sending their children to LCS?Use this card to invite themto a Welcome Wednesday open house!December 16Early Dismissal, Christmas Holidays BeginJanuary 2Student Holiday, Teacher Work DayJanuary 3Classes ResumeJanuary 9Re-Enrollment BeginsJanuary 16School Holiday (MLK, Jr. Day)January 17-20Secondary ExamsJanuary 20End of First SemesterJanuary 23Beginning of Second Semester