Important Announcement
PubHTML5 Scheduled Server Maintenance on (GMT) Sunday, June 26th, 2:00 am - 8:00 am.
PubHTML5 site will be inoperative during the times indicated!

Home Explore SCS Life | Fall/Winter 2021

SCS Life | Fall/Winter 2021

Published by salliegrace, 2021-05-03 18:39:40

Description: SCS Life Fall/Winter 2021

Search

Read the Text Version

FALL/WINTER 2021 Zooming Through 2020

Party ON THE TOP, _________ Save the Date Virtual Program and Live Auction April 17, 2021 Find out more about event details and sponsorship opportunities by scanning the QR code below Online Silent Auction begins April 12 Presenting Sponsor Pajamas ONTHE BOTTOM!__________

ON THE COVER: 46 A pictorial highlight of the year 2020 at 10 20 Southwest Christian School. INSIGHTS 4 EXECUTIVE EDITOR RIDING HIGH 4 Craig Smith BIRD’S EYE VIEW 6 Associate Head of School DEAR CLASS OF 2020 10 MANAGING EDITOR Dena Lewis FINE ARTS 14 Director of Marketing and Communications ANNUAL REPORT 16 ART/DESIGN BUILDING ON THE ROCK 20 Sallie Fender ATHLETICS 22 Marketing Associate Dale Henry Design 22 FRONTLINE ALUMNI 26 KEEP IN TOUCH 28 PHOTOGRAPHY Glenn Ellman FINAL THOUGHTS 29 Dr. Joey Richards Sallie Fender Dena Lewis Shaun Reed Ephrain Villarreal ADVISORY BOARD Brian Johnson, President and Head of School Jennifer Harnish Tracy Howard Justin Kirk Dr. Joey Richards Danny Roberts Cyndi Woodward SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Chisholm Trail Campus (Pre-K – 6th) 6801 Dan Danciger Road Fort Worth, Texas 76133 (817) 294-0350 Lakeside Campus (7th – 12th) 6901 Altamesa Boulevard Fort Worth, Texas 76123 (817) 294-9596 The mission of Southwest Christian School is to provide a Christ-centered, college preparatory education that graduates young adults equipped as Christian leaders in the world. CONTACT US Send story ideas to Dena Lewis at [email protected]. Southwest Christian School admits students of any race, color, and national or ethnic origin. southwestchristian.org SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life 1

Insights Brian Johnson President and Head of School Academically Excellent Perseverance. Endurance. Grit. Whichever term you lean on, you’ve surely been Globally Minded tested over the past twelve months. We all have. At times, the world may have seemed like a boiling cauldron of political conflict, pandemic, and failed promises. Distinctively Christian The specter of hunger across the globe and personal losses within our own communities and families highlighted the importance of our reliance on the Lord, the author of our faith and reason for our hope. Our confidence rests in Christ, and evidence abounds that He is shaping us daily as individuals and as a school community. It’s hard to rejoice when facing trials such as lockdowns and power outages, quarantines and bursting pipes, but we know through James 1 and Roman 5 that He will use these travails to produce in us what He wants and the world needs. That is why I’m thrilled that the pages of this issue demonstrate our collective commitment to carrying on, to forging new connections, to developing God- given talents and interests, and to serving others. Our students, teachers, and alumni have not only adjusted to new challenges, but they have also explored their passions and inspired others by their example. From equestrians to playwrights, from athletes to alumni, we’ve seen remarkable determination that has made a difference. Building on a rock-solid foundation, we’ve risen to new heights. Where some may see the flames of our times lapping at a cauldron, Christians can be grateful for a different vessel: a crucible. You see, a crucible is a container that bears incredible heat so that the metal inside may be protected, melted, purified, and then poured out into a useful mold. The etymology of the word appears to come from the Latin crucis (cross) or even crucibulum (originally a night lamp placed in front of a crucifix). How apt then, that in our times of trouble, we’re protected and molded by the One who conquered the cross? And for what purpose has He preserved us? That we might remain committed to His mission. A cross-country champion trains and gains endurance so that she might win the race laid out for her. Likewise, we’re all called to love and to serve. While we’ve spotlighted only a few in our school community—a doctor, nurse, pastor, and teacher— we know that SCS students and alumni are demonstrating Christ’s love through servant- leadership in communities across the nation and the world. This year the school has embraced the theme, “Love Does,” so it strikes me now that we see the power of love throughout the pages of SCS Life. We can be sure that nothing can separate us from the Love of Christ (Romans 8:35). Certainly, I pray that you and your family are now safe and have emerged from the crucible with perseverance, endurance, and grit. Yet even more, I pray that you cling to the promise of a different trio. “These three remain, faith, hope, and love. But the greatest of these is love.” (1 Cor 13:13) Brian E. M. Johnson President and Head of School 2 SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life

YOUR GIFT IN ACTION! My class loves using the iPads! Digital learning has become such an integral part of education, and we are so fortunate to be able to have access to such amazing technology like the iPads for these 21st century learners! Amy Wilson, Second Grade Teacher To make a gift to the ExcSeOllUenTcHeWFuEnSdT,CviHsRitIsSTouIAthNwSeCsHtcOhOriLst|iaSnC.oSrLgi/sfeupport-s3cs

EAGLES RIDING HIGH Whether through creative, athletic, or intellectual outlets, SCS students stay busy outside of school by devoting extra time to their passions. Meet some of our Eagle equestrians who spend their free time in the saddle. 4 SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life

Emma Rachel Summer Madeline Williams (11) Paulsen (12) Skrabanek (11) Horton (11) Emma Williams was exposed After Rachel Paulsen visited Summer Skrabanek has Madeline Horton has been to horses at a young age. Her multiple horse shows with her enjoyed horses and horseback around horses her whole life. aunt breeds horses, her mom friend, she fell in love and started riding her entire life. When She started riding when she was grew up riding, and so it was riding at age 13. Her affection for she was younger, she would nine, and competitively showing only a matter of time before riding was instant. look at old pictures of her mom around three years ago. she fell in love with horses riding and showing horses too. When she was six, Emma “My favorite part about being and decided to follow in her “I get an adrenaline rush from started taking lessons at a local an equestrian is being able to footsteps about four years ago. the speed and danger of the fence barn and then began entering perform after months of practice work,” said Madeline. “There is competitions a few years later. and getting the outcome that I “I wanted to be just like her!” also a bond between the horse Her bond with her horse, Sweet desire,” said Rachel. said Summer. and rider that is something I’ve Little Something (barn name, never seen or experienced in Lil), is one of her favorite things Rachel rides Half Arabian When Summer first got any other sport -- the way these about being an equestrian. Country English Pleasure and her horse, Big Shoes to Fill horses trust the rider and work has won National and Reserve (barn name, Penny), she was for them is very special.” “It’s like having a Champion, Scottsdale Champion, very green and inexperienced 1,200-pound dog,” said Emma. multiple regional titles and local -- especially over fences. So Madeline is a part of the Reined horse shows. After high school, getting to grow as a team with Cowhorse community which Show season for Emma and Rachel plans to continue riding Penny, with the help of her traces its roots to the California Lil is about five months out of in the adult division with her mom and trainer, has been Spanish vaqueros. She rides two the year. After putting so much horse, Nirvana Nevermind (barn exciting. reined cow horses named Seven time and training into the name, KC). S Hesa Cat (barn name, Trapper), other seven months of the year, “Penny and I have both a blue roan gelding and Wisha Emma finds it rewarding to see SCS Eagles have a long grown up so much, and it’s Pona Star (barn name, Star), the end results. tradition of being a part of very cool to know that we have a sorrel mare. While riding in equestrian events through made her into the horse she is,” the Reined Cowhorse category, “Two years ago, I completely the years. Pictured is Dillon said Summer. Madeline has won several awards switched my riding style to Bransom, a member of the including 2019 VRH AQHA have my horse closer to me and 2005 SCS Rodeo Team. Summer would love to be on Ranch Cutting World Champion, build a bond,” said Emma. “It a collegiate equestrian team 2019 AQHYA World Show has been a real struggle, but I doing either Equitation Over Finalist in two level 3 classes, can finally see all the hard work Fences or Horsemanship. 2020 NRCHA Celebration I have put in paying off.” Currently, she participates of Champions Finalist, 2020 in Working Hunter and AQHYA World Show Bronze Emma rides Half Arabian Equitation and has won World Champion, and 2020 Western Pleasure and numerous awards including NRCHA Stallion Stakes Youth has eight ribbons for top APHA World Champion Fence Spectacular Reserves ten in the country, one Equitation Over Fences, APHA Champion. National Championship and Reserve World Champion several Reserve National Working Hunter, Multiple Championships. Circuit Champion, NSBA Top Ten/Finalist Working Hunter, Equitation Over Fences, Equitation, and Hunter Under Saddle. SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life 5

2020 COVER EDITION SCS shared a message of Leaders from Southwest Christian School celebrated the hope during the COVID groundbreaking for the Clay Center for Christian Leadership quarantine when all Texas on January 30, 2020. school campuses were While many schools closed by the state. had to cancel their events, the SCS Eagle Alumna Class of 2020 was Dr. Kaitlin able to participate Severson (’05) in an outdoor sent out a photo commencement assuring her ceremony at Eagle family she was Stadium on July 25, alright during 2020. her long hours in the emergency room at the beginning of the COVID pandemic. 6 SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life

TAPPS State Championship rings were awarded to the SCS Varsity Girls’ Basketball team for their impressive season in 2020. Kindergarten teacher Sara Messina posed in front of her yard sign that was delivered by PTO members during COVID quarantine. Young Eagles were mesmerized by the baby chicks in the Martin Science Exploration Center. Students were able to observe the chicks’ journey from egg to hatchlings during their science lab classes. Although a little different, Santa still made his annual visit to our Chisholm Trail Campus in December. Zeke the Eagle prepared for the arrival of students in August as Fifth grade teacher Sherry Newby with school closures were lifted for faith-based organizations. a student at one of her many porch visits during spring remote classes. SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life 7

2020 COVER EDITION Jared Gallagher, Sunmi Dosu, and Hugh Massey were recognized by National Merit Scholarships and the College Board for their academic excellence. The SCS Varsity Girls’ Cross Country team celebrated their 2020 TAPPS State Championship after the final meet in Waco, Texas. SCS Mom Lisa Johnson captured an amazing sunset over Benbrook Lake at the Lakeside Campus. A view of the continued construction on the Lakeside Campus as the center nears its opening date in Fall 2021. 8 SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life

A stunning aerial view of Friday night lights at Eagle Stadium courtesy of SCS parent Valerie Roberts. SCS Head Football Coach Jeromy Flowers celebrates the team’s win over the Fort Worth Christian Cardinals in the TAPPS 5A Regional Playoff Round. A scene from the SCS Trendan Parish, Ariele Rosborough, Musical Evita, which took and Arieona Rosborough signed their place in February 2020 at National Letters of Intent during the W.E. Scott Theatre in 2020 Fall Signing Day. Trendan will Fort Worth. be playing baseball at Texas Tech University, and Ariele and Arieona will continue their basketball careers at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. A Kindergarten Students documented their “second” first day of class on March 23, grad celebrates 2020, as they shifted to online learning during the COVID crisis. moving on to first grade! The SCS SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life Kindergarten team held individual porch graduation ceremonies for each Kinder Eagle during the COVID shutdown. 9

DEAR CLASS When the Southwest Christian School Class of 2020 started their senior year in August 2019, things looked bright and promising. After all, this was their year. So many traditions that they had waited for were finally about to come to fruition. They were set to rule the school! The first day of school started with last-first-day donuts and a sugar rush for the brand-new seniors and their parents. High school retreat was a highlight for the class and ended with the seniors taking home the coveted win in the class competition. Even homecoming festivities were a little more special than usual with a 50th anniversary firework show that made the night a bit more magical. The SCS Class of 2020 was experiencing a charmed year -- until they weren’t. Seemingly out of nowhere, the world took a dramatic turn and Covid-19 became a global pandemic. Schools across the country closed Continued page 12 10 SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life

OF 2020... SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life 11

DEAR CLASS OF 2020... Continuedfrompage10 “ Not only did these young men and women navigate the most bizarre ending to a school year any of us could have imagined, but they also successfully launched into the ”next chapter of the story God had in store for them. their campuses and went online in record time. SCS school administrators and faculty were tasked with reinventing learning for our faculty, staff, students, and families. It was hard for everyone involved, but particularly difficult for the 79 seniors who were in the last quarter of a year that was supposed to be the grand finale of a 13-year journey. There were a lot of hard questions that were floating around, including would a graduation ceremony be possible with the current restrictions in place? On March 22, 2020, the eve of the first day of remote learning, SCS High School Principal Coby Bird sensed the hopelessness the seniors were experiencing and sent an email encouraging them to finish strong. The ever- present coach in him encouraged them to dig deep and finish the race with the absolute best performance they could possibly give. “Not only did these young men and women navigate the most bizarre ending to a school year any of us could have imagined, but they also successfully launched into the next chapter of the story God had in store from them,” said Mr. Bird. “Watching them not just survive but thrive and engage the world beyond SCS as Christian leaders in the world has made me very proud.” 12 SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life

The SCS Class of 2020 graduated on July 25, 2020 in an outdoor, socially distanced ceremony on the Eagle Stadium football field. It was an unseasonably cool day for the middle of summer, but even if it had not been, there is no doubt not one person would have complained. With their mortar boards and masks in place, the class who had faced obstacles like no other class before it moved forward in a world that was momentarily standing still. To read Mr. Bird’s special letter to the Class of 2020, scan the QR code with your phone. SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life 13

Fine Arts SCS Theatre Students Continue Winning Legacy in High School Playwriting Project Southwest Christian School’s advanced acting class students entered 19 plays in the Fort Worth High School Playwriting Project 2020, sponsored by Fort Worth’s Circle Theatre. Out of hundreds of entries, SCS Junior Grant Goodnight’s play, Controlling the Controllables, was named as a top-four finalist. SCS Sophomore Abbie McCurdy’s entry, The Cards Are Stacked, was named as a top-eight semifinalist. As a finalist, Grant’s play was celebrated with a digital reading by professional actors on September 11, 2020. SCS Theatre students have made a name for themselves over the years in this prestigious circle. Texas State University Playwriting Faculty and SCS Alumna, Caitlin Turnage (’12), was a FWPP finalist in 2011 with her play, Under the Apple Tree. Elijah Sims (’11) was named to the semi-finalist list that very same year with his play, The Testing Room. In 2014, Caroline Jones (’15) was named an FWPP semi-finalist with her play, The Silent and the Burned. With our new 2020 accomplished playwrights, SCS Theatre continues a legacy of top ranking Eagle Players in the world of Fort Worth playwriting. 14 SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life

SCS FINE ARTS ALUMI SPOTLIGHT Aidan Lewis (’20) SCS Alumnus and trying to figure out certain Oklahoma State techniques that I didn’t get University student, a chance to completely learn Aidan Lewis, recently during high school. I can finished his first semester definitely say that if it wasn’t of college. At SCS, Aidan for my time spent being a played on the drum line part of the SCS drum line, for four years and served I wouldn’t have even had a as captain for two. As a chance at making it at OSU. college freshman, Aidan continued playing in drum Q: What was the most line as well. Below is a challenging part of your first brief interview with him year on the OSU drum line, regarding his experience and do you plan on trying out this year. again next year? Q: What was the highlight A: The most challenging part of being a part of the OSU of my first year on the OSU drum line? drum line was trying to keep up with everyone else during A: The best part of being the first few days. Most, if not on the OSU drum line has all of the members, were from been being able to play drum lines that were a part during the college football of huge 5A and 6A marching games. bands. Because of this, they usually had specialized Q: How would you compare teachers for each section of the experience of being a drums. This meant that they part of the OSU drum line, ended up coming in with more to that of being a part of the experience than I did. The drum line at SCS? learning curve was steep, but it was worth the effort in the A: Being a part of the OSU end. Luckily, I don’t have to drum line is in certain ever try out again, which is a ways similar to the drum huge relief! line at SCS, yet at the same time it is incredibly Q: For anyone who might be interested in doing something different. The discipline and commitment to playing clean like drum line in college, what advice would you give them? is on a much higher level than high school drum line, but the brotherhood and family aspect of the drum line always A: The advice I would give to anyone interested in doing reminds me of when I was back at SCS. something like drum line in college is that if you are seriously thinking about being a part of it, then it is never Q: What was the audition process like when you were trying too early to start learning the audition music. I would out at OSU? also say that you need to take it extremely seriously. The difference between high school and D1 college is A: The audition process was very tedious, but extremely pretty sizable, especially since you are on your own and rewarding. The music that I had to learn for the audition responsible for your own actions and time management. was extremely difficult, and I had to spend a ton of my time SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life 15

Craig Smith, Associate Head of School Annual Report 2019-20 W ithout a doubt, the 2019-20 school year was like no other. Covid-19 took us places we never dreamed we would go – students learned remotely through the spring, athletic seasons were canceled, our senior commencement ceremony took place on the football field in the middle of July. But through it all, our community was resilient time and time again! Our students and families flourished under the stress and came back even stronger. This strength was also shown in the generosity of our families—from parents, grandparents, teachers, alumni, and friends—to our school through donations. Even in the face of a world-wide crisis, our supporters showed up. Every gift we received, small and large, was meaningful and we were humbled to see our families and friends make philanthropy to our school a priority. In good times it is easy to take up the mantle of a cause you love, but showing that commitment during hard times, is a much more difficult choice. Thank you for making that positive choice and partnering with us last year. Because of your help, we continue to make a difference in the lives of our students. Because of you, Christian education continues to shine at SCS. Year Ended June 30, 2020 Summary of Operations Revenues in Dollars: Approx. % ■ Tuition & Fees 13,112,547 97.00% REVENUE ■ Contributions 431,332 3.00% $13,560,864 ■ Investment Income (180,155) -1.00% EXPENSES $14,102,924 ■ Other Revenue 197,140 1.00% Total Revenue 13,560,864 100.00% Expenses inn Dollars: ■ Salaries & benefits 8,551,551 61.00% ■ Instructional 1,982,980 14.00% ■ Administrative 835,161 6.00% ■ Marketing & fundraising 251,910 2.00% ■ Booster & PTO 201,368 1.00% ■ Interest 259,340 2.00% ■ Facilities 993,352 7.00% ■ Depreciation 1,027,262 7.00% Total Expenses 14,102,924 100.00% Other Gifts Gifts restricted for capital & specific purposes 6,495,587 Gifts to endowment 12,658 Total other gifts 6,508,245 16 SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life

x 2019/2020 President’s Circle Mr. and Mrs. Gene Adams Mrs. Priscilla Geesbreght Dr. and Mrs. Alan Norman Aeko Technologies Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Gentry Mrs. Janeen Patterson Mr. and Mrs. David Amend Mr. and Mrs. Scott Gerrish Mr. and Mrs. Roe Patterson Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Keith Grassi Dr. and Mrs. Michael Paulsen Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Steven Greig Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Pfeffer Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Derald Grimes Mr. and Mrs. William Phillips Anonymous Mr. James Gwynn Mr. Jerry Purselley Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Haller Mr. and Mrs. B. Garner Roberts, Jr. Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Bryon Hammer Mr. and Mrs. Travis Roberts Mr. and Mrs. Mark Benson Dr. and Mrs. Kenneth Hancock Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Robertson Ms. Bonnie Blan Mr. and Mrs. Joey Hembree Mr. and Mrs. Brian Rodgers Ms. Sharon Brown Dr. and Mrs. Chase Herdman Dr. Fred Rohm Mr. and Ms. Jeff Buell Higginbotham RSI International, Inc. Mr. and Mrs. Grant Bullinger Historic Boutique Inns, LLC Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Rudd Dr. and Mrs. Robert Caballero Mr. and Mrs. Todd Hodnett Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Sable Amon G. Carter Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Matt Holster Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Sage Mr. and Mrs. Michael Cawood Mr. and Mrs. Nat Holt Mr. and Mrs. David Schultz Mr. and Mrs. Charles Chapman Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Horton Mr. and Mrs. Michael Sharpe Mr. and Mrs. Chad Chase Mr. and Mrs. Brian Johnson SJ Thornhill Partnership CIG Logistics Mr. and Mrs. Leon Jones Mr. and Mrs. Paul Slabbekoorn Ms. Virginia Clay Kelley Orthodontics / Live Thankfully Mr. and Mrs. Craig Smith Mr. and Mrs. Michael Collins Mr. and Mrs. Justin Kirk Mr. and Mrs. Paul Stumbo Cabe Cook Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Greg Kubes Mr. and Mrs. Brandon Tatarevich Cooper Natural Resources Mr. and Mrs. Donald Lassetter Mr. and Mrs. Steven Tenery The Collom Charitable Dr. Lisa and Mr. John Lewis Mr. and Mrs. Greg Thomas Foundation Inc. Mr. Andrew Littlejohn Mr. and Mrs. Fred Thompson Mr. and Mrs. Tom Coston Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Lumpkins Mr. and Mrs. Jace Thompson Dr. Heather and Mr. Glen Coultas Lyness Construction, LP Mr. and Mrs. Doug Van Otterloo Mr. and Mrs. Joseph DeWoody Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Lyness Mr. and Mrs. Kash Vann Ms. Sharron Drury Dr. Melanie and Mr. Trent Marshall Dr. and Mrs. Luis Vargas Dr. and Mrs. Huy Duong Mr. and Mrs. Marty McCutchen Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Waddell Mr. and Mrs. Michael Fitzgerald Mr. and Mrs. Robert McLean Mr. and Mrs. Jarred Walker Mr. and Mrs. Tim Fleet Mr. Dan Meeker Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Webb Mr. and Mrs. Alan Fletcher Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell Miller Mr. and Mrs. Jason Whiddon Dr. and Mrs. Jason Fowler Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Miller Mr. and Mrs. Corbin Wilson Frost Bank Dr. and Mrs. Lorren Mott Mr. and Mrs. Earl Wood Dr. Julie and Dr. Dean Fry Mr. and Mrs. John Nash Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Workman Mr. and Mrs. Alex Geesbreght Network for Good SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life 17

2019/2020 Donors A&G Piping Mr. and Mrs. Braxton Britting Mr. and Mrs. Zeth Davis Mr. and Mrs. Dallen Grimes Mr. and Mrs. Michael Adams Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Grinstead The Honorable Brooke and Mrs. Beggs Brown Mr. and Mrs. William Davis Reverend and Mrs. Ion Groza Mr. Joseph Allen Dr. and Mrs. Sreenivas Gudimetla AmazonSmile Mr. and Mrs. Larry Brown Mr. and Mrs. Michael DeWoody Mr. and Mrs. Danny Haddox Mr. and Mrs. Olu Amele Mr. and Mrs. Wes Hamilton Dr. Joan Amudipe-Amele and Mr. and Mrs. Shane Brown Mr. and Mrs. Trey Dimsdale Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Hammond Mr. Oluyemi Amele Mr. and Mrs. Joe Hamstra Dr. Meagan and Mr. Kurt Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Bryan Mr. and Mrs. Michael Doane Mr. and Mrs. Vincent Hancock Anderson Dr. and Mrs. Ehab Hanna Mr. and Mrs. Shawn Anderson Mr. and Mrs. Bruce Buchanan documentWORKS Ms. Bridget Hannifin Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Marty Harnish Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Joe Burton Mr. Dennis Donohue Mr. Kyle Harrison Anonymous Ms. Mary Hartin Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Dave Butcher Mr. and Mrs. Joe Donovan Pastor and Mrs. Mark Heffner Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. Dan Heinrich Mr. and Mrs. Tyler Arbogast Mr. Benjamin Caballero Dr. Kristi and Mr. Bently Dorman Mr. and Mrs. Robert Heinrich Mr. Kevin Arndt Mr. and Mrs. Don Herttenberger Mr. and Mrs. Clint Auten Mr. Thomas Caballero Ms. Doris Drake Mr. and Mrs. Brian Hix Mr. and Mrs. Cody Averhoff Mr. and Mrs. Jason Hoffman Mr. Brian Aylor Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Cage Mr. and Mrs. Tom Dreher Mrs. Brenda Holder Mr. Jeremy Bachtel Ms. Marian Holland Mr. and Mrs. Adam Baggs Dr. Sandra and Dr. Tom Callaghan Dr. Clifton Dubose Ms. Emily Hollenbeck Ms. Jennifer Baggs-Kamacioglu Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Holman Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Bairrington Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Cameron Ms. Becky Earlston Mr. and Mrs. Steve Holton Mr. and Mrs. Garrett Balch Ms. Barbara Horton Mrs. MaryBeth Banks Mr. and Mrs. Aubrey Campbell Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Eldridge Mr. and Mrs. Tracy Howard Mr. and Mrs. Grant Bannen Mr. and Mrs. Jody Huchingson Mr. and Mrs. Rob Barbee Ms. Teri Campise Mr. and Mrs. Ray Ellen Mr. and Mrs. Brent Huffman Mr. and Mrs. Brandon Barefoot Mr. and Mrs. Mike Hull Mr. and Mrs. Bradford Barnes Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Carey Mr. and Mrs. Gregory Engstrom Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Humber Mr. Owen Barnett Humphrey & Associates Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Barr Mr. and Mrs. Lance Carr Mr. and Mrs. Richard Enright Mr. and Mrs. Frank Iannelli Dr. and Mrs. Russ Bartee Ideal Partners Dr. Nicole and Dr. Thomas Mr. and Mrs. Randy Carroll Mr. and Mrs. Warren Ethridge Mr. and Mrs. Olin Isham Bartosh Mr. and Mrs. Edward Iwanski Ms. Kimberlea Bass Mr. and Mrs. Barry Carter Mr. and Mrs. Fred Evans Mr. and Mrs. William James Mr. and Mrs. Joe Batzel Mr. and Mrs. Chad Jenkins Ms. Melissa Bearden Mr. and Mrs. Sonny Cason Mr. and Mrs. Jon Evans Mr. and Mrs. Sean Jenkins Mr. and Mrs. Kent Bennett Mr. and Mrs. Ron Johns, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Benson Dr. and Mrs. Joe Cathey Mr. and Mrs. Charlie Farrell Mr. and Mrs. Chris Johnson Ms. Kim Bentley Col. and Mrs. David Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Robert Benton Ms. Nicole Caylor Mr. and Mrs. John Fershtand Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Luis Berlanga Mr. and Mrs. Joe Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Coby Bird Dr. and Mrs. Jerry Chase Mr. and Mrs. Charles Fillmore Dr. and Mrs. John Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Terry Ray Blake Mr. and Mrs. David Johnson Mr. and Mrs. James Bocks Ms. Susan Cheyne Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Fitzgearld Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Johnson Dr. and Mrs. Robert Booth Mr. and Mrs. Trey Johnson BNSF Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Chipman Mr. Andrew Fitzhugh Mr. and Mrs. Stuart Johnston Mr. and Mrs. Keith Brandt Mr. Christopher A. Jones Mr. and Mrs. Dan Brazelton Mr. and Mrs. James Chou Mr. and Mrs. Bryans Fitzhugh Mr. Fred Jones Mr. and Mrs. Brazelton Mrs. Julie Jones Mr. and Mrs. Joshua Bristow Mr. and Mrs. Michael Clark Mr. and Mrs. Patrick Floyd Ms. Kären Jones Mrs. Barbara Clarkin Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Ford Class of 2020 Mr. and Mrs. Lance Frank Clear Fork Royalty Mr. and Mrs. Eric Fuller Mr. and Mrs. Doug Cline Dr. Marsha and Mr. David Gabriel Mr. and Mrs. Ed Coburn Dr. Sheree and Mr. Jay Gallagher Mr. and Mrs. Paul Cockrum Mr. and Mrs. Steve Gandy Mr. George Coman-Lavery Mr. and Mrs. Jim Garrett Mr. and Mrs. Charles Comer Mr. and Mrs. Judd Garrett Ms. Linda Comer Mr. and Mrs. Nick Garrett Ms. Karen Cook Mr. and Mrs. Scott Garrett Mr. and Mrs. Paul Cook Mr. and Mrs. David Gibson Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Cookston Mr. and Mrs. Paul Gill Communities Foundation of Texas Dr. and Mrs. Robert Gillespie Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Coop Mr. and Mrs. Mike Giltzow Mr. and Mrs. Dana Copp Mr. and Mrs. Mike Gingras Mr. and Mrs. Michael Corley Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Goad, III Mr. and Mrs. David Cort Ms. Pat Godman Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Corum Mr. and Mrs. Eric Gonzalez Mr. and Mrs. Brian Cox Mr. and Mrs. Brent Gooden Ms. Trisha Cox Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Grable Mr. Garrett Crabtree Mr. and Mrs. Robert Grable Mr. and Mrs. Mark Creighton Mr. and Mrs. Ramon Grado Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Cross Mr. and Mrs. Phillip Greene Dr. Jaquetta and Mr. and Mrs. Paul Greer Mr. Gregory Davis Ms. Shonette Greer Mr. and Mrs. Riley Davis Mr. and Mrs. Chris Griffin 18 SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life

2019/2020 Donors Mr. Steven Jones Mr. and Mrs. Ricardo Medina Mr. and Mrs. Darrin Lee Raines Steel City Pops Ms. Whitney Jones Mr. and Mrs. Brian Joslin Ms. Beth Meeker Mr. and Mrs. Les Raines Mrs. Sara Stokes Dr. and Mrs. John M Kelley Mr. and Mrs. Roger Kelly Mr. Larry Menendez Mr. and Mrs. Nelson Raines Mr. and Mrs. James Stone Kendra Scott - Clearfork Mr. and Ms. Michael Kiddy Mr. and Mrs. Quinn Mentone Mr. and Mrs. Travis Rall Ms. Judy Strickland Mr. and Mrs. Benjamin King Mr. and Mrs. Edward King Mr. and Mrs. Michael Milam Mr. and Mrs. George Rambo, III Mr. and Mrs. Preston Strong Mr. Peter King Mr. and Mrs. Ryan Kitchen Dr. and Mrs. Travis Miller Ms. Kara Rariden Dr. and Mrs. J.E. Swenson Mr. and Mrs. Charles Klutz Mr. and Mrs. Brandon Knieper Mr. and Mrs. Chase Mills Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Ratliff Mr. and Mrs. Mack Ed Swindle Mr. and Mrs. Robert Knox Mr. and Mrs. Bryan Korb Mr. and Mrs. Greg Millspaugh Mr. and Mrs. Shaun Reed Mr. and Mrs. Chris Swinney Kroger Mr. and Mrs. Barry Kromann MKG Homes Mr. and Mrs. Michael Reeder Mr. and Mrs. Paul Taff Mr. and Mrs. Mark Labadie Mr. and Mrs. Robert LaBoon Molyneaux Charitable Foundation Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Register Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Thomas Ms. Leah LaGrone Ochoa Mr. and Mrs. Robert Lambert Mr. and Mrs. Eddie Montague Dr. and Mrs. Michael Remotigue Mr. Jeffrey Toler Mr. and Mrs. Alan Landrum Ms. Tisha Langevin Mr. and Mrs. Mike Moore Ms. Hilda Rendon Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Torres Mr. and Mrs. Don Lanier Law Office of Daniel Webb Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Moore Dr. Rebecca and Mr. Henry Reyes Mr. and Mrs. Richard Torrey Mr. and Mrs. Brook Lewis Mr. and Mrs. Marshall Lewis Dr. Pamela Morris Mr. and Mrs. Ray Reynolds Ms. Erin Tribble Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Lewis Mr. Mike Lewis Mr. and Mrs. Matthew Motes Dr. and Mrs. Joseph Richards Mr. and Mrs. Trey Tullous Mr. and Mrs. James Lineman Mr. and Mrs. Don Long Dr. Tracy and Mr. Jason Munford Mr. and Mrs. George Roach Mr. and Mrs. Ike Ukaegbu Mr. and Mrs. Wayne Long Dr. and Mrs. Ronald Lott Justice and Mrs. John E. Neill Mr. and Mrs. Danny Roberts Mr. and Mrs. Kevin Valadez Mr. and Mrs. Jason Luce Mr. and Mrs. Martin Lynch Mr. and Mrs. Gene Nelson Mr. and Mrs. Mark Roberts Valor Mineral Management Mr. and Mrs. Jim Macphearson Mr. and Mrs. Mark Maness Mr. and Mrs. Steve Newby Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Rusch Mr. and Mrs. Don Van Otterloo Ms. Deborah Martin Ms. Patty Martin Mr. David Nigh Mr. and Mrs. Jon D. Russell Mr. and Mrs. George Vardakis Mr. and Mrs. Joe Mason Ms. Monique Mason Ms. Mary Katherine Nolan Ms. Bethany Saba Mr. and Mrs. Timothy Vasil Mr. and Mrs. Richard Massey Mr. and Mrs. Mike Massey Northrop Grumman Mr. Chris Saba Mr. and Mrs. Lyndon Vestal Mr. and Mrs. Danny Matthews Mr. and Mrs. Joe Mayden Mr. and Mrs. Richard Oden Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Sanders Mr. and Mrs. Stan Vick Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey McAlister Mr. and Mrs. Patrick McCarroll Dr. Catherine and Dr. and Mrs. John Savell Mr. and Mrs. James Vuduris Mr. and Mrs. James McCarthy Mr. and Mrs. Mike McCurdy Dr. Olusegun Oseni Mrs. Allison Scales Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Wadley Mr. and Mrs. Brad McDaniel Ms. Elizabeth McDaniel Mr. and Mrs. Tom Oswald Mr. and Mrs. Errol Schmeits Mr. and Mrs. J. Brandon Waits Mr. and Mrs. Chad McElvain Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Ott Mr. Bob Schultz Mr. and Mrs. Blake Walker Mr. and Mrs. James Owens Mr. and Mrs. Joe Seale Mr. and Mrs. Merle Wang Mr. and Mrs. Michael Pacheco Dr. and Mrs. Jorden Seamands Dr. and Mrs. James Peng Mr. and Mrs. Carl Parish Mr. and Mrs. Brian Seaton Mr. and Mrs. Aaron Wardlaw Mr. and Mrs. Stephen Parish Mr. and Mrs. Steven Sellers Mr. and Mrs. James Werner Col. and Mrs. Donald Parker Ms. Hannah Severson Mr. and Mrs. William West Ms. Laura Parks Mr. and Mrs. Micky Severson Mr. and Mrs. Sid Whitener Mr. and Mrs. Fernando Payan, Jr. Dr. Angela and Dr. Andrew Shedd Mr. and Mrs. Bill Wiedenhoff Mr. and Mrs. Charles Peeler Mr. and Mrs. Buster Shelton Ms. Amy Wilson Mrs. Becky Peninger Mr. and Mrs. Doug Shonkwiler Mr. and Mrs. Charles Wilson Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Penta Ms. Pamela Singleton Mr. and Mrs. Aron Wimpee Mr. and Mrs. Steve Percifield Ms. Christy Smith Pastor and Mrs. Patrick Winfield Mr. and Mrs. Brad Peterson Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Smith Dr. and Mrs. Matt Winn Mr. and Mrs. David Petter Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Smith Mr. and Mrs. Charles Wittmer Mrs. Sharon Pippin Ms. Kelly Smith Mr. and Mrs. Chuck Wittmer Mr. and Mrs. Austin Pittman Dr. and Mrs. Richard Smith Dr. and Mrs. Kurtt Wix Mrs. Inglan Poland Mr. and Mrs. Roger Smith Mr. and Mrs. William Wood Mr. and Mrs. Dick Poore Ms. Teresa Smith Mr. and Mrs. Shawn Woodward Mr. and Mrs. Tracy Pope Ms. Tina Smith Mr. and Mrs. David Woolsey Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Porter Mrs. Brenda Snedden Mr. and Mrs. Coby Wooten Mr. and Mrs. Philip Posey Mr. and Mrs. Jeremy Snyder Ms. Carrie Wylie Ms. Stormy Powell Dr. and Mrs. Oluwole Songonuga Dr. Somer and Mr. Lance Yocom Ms. Danna Presbaugh Mr. and Mrs. Billy Southall Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Zaiger Mr. and Mrs. Darryl Pritchett Mr. and Mrs. Warren St. John Mr. Bobby Zeigler Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Purschwitz Mr. and Mrs. Scott Stavenhagen SCS 2018 Auction Raffle Steamaway SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life 19

“God is good… all the time.” Raising the Veale Tower Cross “All the time…God is good.” Miller Amphitheater By Brian Johnson, President and Head of School If you’ve attended any Chisholm Trail Campus events, you’ve likely heard that call- and-response from the mouths of our students. And it presents Truth today and every day. Though beset by a pandemic, red-tape delays (associated with newly imposed storm- shelter requirements), and uncooperative weather, we’ve seen the Lord’s hand at work and watched the Clay Center for Christian Leadership rise from its solid foundation. Along with a host of other blessings on campus, the various elements of the Building on the Rock campaign are now rapidly taking shape. God is good. Building continues at a daunting pace, and we’re grateful for your support and prayers. Students on both campuses had the opportunity to sign and pray over three beams that will span the entrance to the new building. Last week, the erectors affixed the 35-foot cross to the outside of the Veale Tower (visible from Lakeside Drive). By the time SCS Life is published, the storm shelter, and structural steel—including supports for the skywalk to the Hawkins Building— should be complete and concrete poured for the second floor. Though I’ve been involved in the planning process every step of the way, I found wonderful surprises during my recent visit to the construction site. I hadn’t realized that when you enter the Geesbreght Family Commons from the main hallway, rounding the corner from the Davey Forum, you’ll be treated to a spectacular view of the long axis of Lake Benbrook. Invited to climb up the Betsy Hall Learning Stairs to look at the project from a new angle, I peered out from the devotional porch across the Miller Amphitheater to the cross by the lake. The larger Gentry Porch feels like an extension of the amphitheater below and will be a wonderful space for small group gatherings or special seating for events. What a blessing for our students and teachers each of these spaces will be! Of course, we have a long road ahead, but when I had the chance to “come and see,” my spirit soared. God is doing great things at SCS, not just in terms of buildings and boardwalks, but also through the lives of our students. I’m excited about the projected opening of the Miller Amphitheater in April and the Clay Center for Christian Leadership in August because I can already picture our students offering up praise to the Lord for His provision. Soon enough, praise will rise above the skywalk, the rafters, and the tower. Let it rise! 20 SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life

Students signed several beams in the Clay Center for Christian Leadership. A Bible was placed beneath the foundation of the new building. Scan the QR code to SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life 21 learn how to support the Building on the Rock campaign.

Sports Recap – FALL & WINTER FOOTBALL With a great season came great accolades: Jeromy Flowers, Head Football Coach DISTRICT HONORS STATE HONORS Wow! What a great season during District MVP All-State Offense a rough year. As a team, one of Tyson Flowers our goals was to be a light to our 1st Team school and community as they Newcomer of the Year ● Kory Harris - Running Back were going through darkness. Mark Simons By the grace of God, I believe 2nd Team we were able to accomplish that Coaching Staff of the Year ● Tyson Flowers - Athlete goal. With the season being over I Southwest Christian School still thank God for using our team All-State Defense and our season as a vehicle to All-District Defense represent Him! I am proud to say 1st Team that our accomplishments included 1st Team ● Mark Simons - Linebacker becoming district, area, and ● Mark Simons - Linebackers ● Tyson Flowers - Defensive Back regional champions! But I am more ● Tyson Flowers - Defensive Backs excited to give God all the glory! ● Darion Gipson - Defensive Backs Honorable Mention ● Darrion Gipson - Defensive Back 2nd Team ● Drew Vuduris - Defensive Linemen Academic All-State Honors ● Hunter Sage - Defensive Linemen ● Tyson Flowers ● Cody Collom - Linebackers ● Drew Vuduris ● Davis McClung - Linebackers ● Mark Simons ● Davis McClung Honorable Mention ● Milton Granger - Defensive Linemen ● Carson Tatarevich - Linebackers ● Alex Salazar - Defensive Backs ● Alex Welch - Defensive Backs 22 SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life

VOLLEYBALL Jessika Robinson, Head Volleyball Coach Dealing with the issues of COVID revealed a lot of things about our volleyball players and coaches. We proved ourselves to be fighters, a force to reckon with -- we were resilient. All glory goes to God because he gave us the strength and determination we needed to finish the race and make it to the second round of playoffs. I am proud to lead this program. It will only go up from here! DISTRICT HONORS All-District 1st Team Arieona Rosborough Ariele Rosborough 2nd Team Jaydn Barber Baylee Mobley Honorable Mention Marina Lopez STATE HONORS All-State 2nd Team Arieona Rosborough CHEER Darian Musslewhite, Head Cheer Coach Even though 2020 was the craziest year, the Eagle cheerleaders loved supporting all the fall and winter athletes and teams. Cheering on the Division II TAPPS Regional Football Champions from the sidelines, celebrating the TAPPS State Cross Country and Bi-District Volleyball Champs at pep rallies, and placing fifth at the state competition have been a few of the highlights of the semester. Four of the cheerleaders were named to the TAPPS All-State Cheer Squad -- Rachel Paulsen (1st Team), Basden Wilson (2nd Team), Katie Pfeffer (2nd Team), and Charley Chase (Honorable Mention). We cannot wait to jump back into cheering on all our SCS athletes and rooting our teams to victory in 2021! SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life 23

Sports Recap – WINTER & SPRING CROSS COUNTRY Chris Swinney, Head Cross Country Coach SCS Cross Country training began in the spring of 2020 during a stay-in-place order that required our runners to train individually. Our guys and girls ran in neighborhoods, parks, or anywhere that would allow them to get their training in. This motivation and dedication allowed the team to be ready once the summer and school year arrived and in-person training could start. After the cancellation of the SCS I Invitational due to Covid-19, the team started their season with the SCS II Invitational. The girls finished first and the boys placed second.  Some impressive races for the boys during the season included a fourth place finish at the Burleson Centennial meet and a first place win at the SCS III Invitational. The girls went undefeated throughout the season with a first-place finish in every meet. The teams were led by captains, Jared Gallagher, Maguire Smith, Harrison Dooley, Reagan High, Katie High, and Haylee Davis. The SCS Boys’ JV, Boys’ Varsity, Girls’ JV, and Girls’ Varsity all swept the district championship, taking home top honors. This was the eighth consecutive TAPPS District Championship for the boys’ varsity team, while the girls’ varsity team claimed their 12th consecutive district championship. Some standout middle school runners at the district meet were Caleb Buell, who won the district meet for the boys, and Bailee Swinney, who came in third in district for the girls.  At the state meet, the boys’ varsity team earned fourth place honors. The team consisted of Jared Gallagher, Jackson Gallagher, Connor Ochoa, Caleb Pfeffer, Bradley Langevin, Brian Rusch, and Maguire Smith. Jared Gallagher earned All-State Honors and Academic All-State Honors. He individually placed sixth in the state meet. The girls’ varsity team was named TAPPS State Champions with a first-place finish. The team consisted of Reagan High, Olivia High, Emily Doane, Katelyn Moore, Evie Baker, Madeline Day, and Meredith Hammer. Reagan High and Madeline Day also earned Academic All-State honors. Madeline individually placed fifteenth in the state meet and Reagan was crowned state champion. Reagan High (1st Place), Olivia High (3rd place), Emily Doane (8th Place), Katelyn Moore (9th Place), and Evie Baker (10th Place) also received honors for their top-10 finishes at the state meet. Reagan’s individual state championship was her third consecutive TAPPS State Championship. This is the first team state championship in the history of SCS in cross country.   24 SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life

BASKETBALL In April 2019, Coach Menendez began working with the SCS athletes who would make up his team for the coming A CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM IN THE MAKING season. The team signed up for a spring league at Fort Worth Country Day and went undefeated until the last In March of 2019, Larry Menendez accepted the head game. coaching position for girls’ basketball at Southwest “We went against the girls’ team from O.D. Wyatt High Christian School. School and they beat us by three points,” said Coach “At the time, I was not thinking about a state Menendez. “I will never forget that day because that championship team,” said Coach Menendez. “The changed my strategy of how we would make a state season before, the team had finished 2-19 and I just run.” wanted to develop a strong program that could win at That strategy obviously paid off as the girls went on to least three games.” win the TAPPS 5A State Championship in February 2020. But as Coach Menendez began planning his season, After losing only one senior from last year’s roster, four he received a big surprise. His wife, Lea Rosborough- starters and two experienced players will be returning Menendez, had decided that their twin girls would be this season. Senior team captains Ariele Rosborough, joining him as students and players at SCS. That night his Arieona Rosborough and Dayton Flowers are focused on thought process changed. Coach Menendez had been a leading the team to another state tournament this year. huge part of Ariele’s and Arieona’s basketball training This year, the team went undefeated in district play (21-1 since their 6th grade year and he was very aware of the season) and have advanced to TAPPS Playoffs. Coach twins’ abilities. Menendez credits the team’s early success to their “The twins are super talented, and I knew that if I defense. Junior Haylee Davis has been assisting with had them on my team, we would have a huge chance rebounds and steals, while sophomore sensation Emily of making it to the state tournament,” said Coach Doane has been leading the team with blocks. Keep an Menendez. eye on this talented team as they continue to battle their way to a state championship repeat! SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life 25

aluemxpenriiences The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have been widespread and far-reaching for more than a year now. This virus has touched people worldwide and right next door. In this issue, we want to take a moment and highlight several of our Eagle alums who have put Andrew Parrish ’06 Dan DuBose ’02 Give a brief description of your job. Give a brief description of your job. I’m a Worship Pastor for Compass I am a pain management physician. Christian Church at the North I treat chronic pain, mostly Richland Hills campus. Basically, I consisting of neck, back, and plan worship sets and production joint pain. I use interventional elements for our services and then therapies as well as medication lead with a team on Sundays. I’ve management. been at Compass in the worship department for at least eight years What has been the biggest and at the NRH campus as a pastor for challenge or difference you have three years. had to face with your job during the Covid crisis? What has been the biggest challenge or difference you have had to face with your job during the Covid crisis? There is a psychological component to chronic pain. This has been magnified during the COVID pandemic. In addition, patients have been The biggest thing, among so many difficult things during this season, has been fearful to go to the doctor, which has caused them to suffer at home. having to be online/virtual. It was a learning curve and something I wasn’t used to having to prioritize for my job. Not only in the sense of having church I opened a new practice in the middle of the pandemic, and there have services online-only but also having to pastor and be there for our members been numerous times where I had to decide to trust the Lord in moving virtually too. Face-to-face interaction is such a big component in the church. forward. He continues to show his faithfulness and has blessed me with Even though we could communicate via Zoom or FaceTime it still wasn’t the wonderful patients. same as meeting at a coffee shop. But it stretched me and the rest of our staffs’ faith to know that God was still working, even in the midst of this craziness. How have you grown spiritually or in other ways due to the impact Covid has had on your job? How have you grown spiritually or in other ways due to the impact Covid has had on your job? This pandemic has helped me focus on what is important. Spending time with family has always been a priority for me, but that has been reinforced I have definitely learned what it is like to really live by faith. Each day has during this time. brought more questions yet God continues to give answers and be a Father to me and so many others. They can sometimes be answers we don’t want to hear, Are there any positive takeaway moments you can share that have come but God is true to His promises and has proven that so much to me during this from your time navigating or dealing with Covid and the effect it has had time. on your job? Are there any positive takeaway moments you can share that have come from Many small businesses have been affected by COVID, and medical your time navigating or dealing with Covid and the effect it has had on your practices are no different. The stress has deepened my faith. If you had job? asked me what my plans were prior to COVID, I would have given you a 1-month, 6-month, 1-year, and 5-year plan. I would have been confident I really like being in control of things, and as I said earlier, virtual and online that I was mostly correct. COVID has made it very clear that I am not in wasn’t my specialty at the beginning of all the Covid mess. So a positive, that control and have no clue what the future will look like. I still make plans I’m still trying to convince myself is a positive, is I’ve given up a lot of control and goals, but the preface of “Lord-willing” means more to me now than issues and have started to ask for more help. And through that, I’ve discovered ever before. the talents of so many members and friends that have spent countless hours with me on FaceTime trying to help me navigate through things. They also Any other thoughts you would like to share about how Covid has have spent their own time helping us get reset for in-person gatherings that impacted you in your frontline position? we’ve been fortunate to start back up. This past year was an emotional roller coaster. I was in my fellowship Any other thoughts you would like to share about how Covid has impacted at Scott and White when the pandemic started. I was on the ICU staff you in your frontline position? schedule for a new COVID ICU because of my anesthesia background. Thankfully, the case volume never got high enough to open the additional I’m trying to not take anything for granted. Whether it’s a Sunday morning ICU. Fear and anxiety were high. The transition to private practice has had service we get to have in person or even just online. Whether it’s times spent its own challenges. The Lord has been faithful through it all, and I hope to in meetings discussing the upcoming week. Whether it’s holidays spent with never forget the lessons I learned this year. family. Whether it’s more time I get to be home with my wife. I’ve seen how quickly things can get flipped on us and I don’t want to be caught again not living my life, that God has so greatly blessed me with, to the fullest. 26 SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life

themselves on the frontlines to serve those around them If you have any SCS alumni news you would like to share, please during this crisis. These are the people who have been email your photo and information to Kim Bentley, Alumni the backbone of our schools, hospitals and churches Coordinator, at [email protected]. through their support of health, education, and faith. We are thankful for these Christian leaders and many others like them in our SCS community. Denise Graham Finnegan ’11 Patricia Hartin Hamblin ’13 Give a brief description of Give a brief description of your job. your job. I am a registered nurse in one of Fort Worth’s I am a first-grade downtown emergency departments. I take care teacher in Burleson of patients from all over the place with problems ISD! ranging from a stubbed toe to life-threatening emergencies of all different medical disciplines. I What has been work with some incredibly talented and intelligent the biggest individuals who help us all accomplish the challenge or impossible. difference you have had to face with your job What has been the biggest challenge or difference you during the Covid crisis? have had to face with your job during the Covid crisis? The biggest challenge has been accommodating children Uncertainty has played a huge role in the many challenges who are learning in person at school, as well as those this pandemic has presented. Slowly but surely, we have learned what to look for with students learning remotely. We are using much more Covid patients, but that has been at their own expense, unfortunately. At times it has technology, and this can be challenging for smaller kiddos. been uncertain where we will put all of the patients with no available space. We have As a teacher in the district, I had to learn a completely new been uncertain if our efforts have been good enough… that we have done everything platform that houses all of our assignments, videos, etc. that we could. The patients are uncertain about their prognosis. They are uncertain about Learning this platform, while teaching parents and students information we are telling them. As caregivers, we are also uncertain if we, ourselves, have how to navigate it, was extremely challenging at first. Now, been infected. We don’t know if we will pass something on from work to our loved ones we’ve got the hang of things, and I can’t thank my parents at home. I could go on and on, but uncertainty on various aspects has been the largest enough for their hard work, dedication to their children, challenge. and their patience during this time. How have you grown spiritually or in other ways due to the impact Covid has had on How have you grown spiritually or in other ways due to the your job? impact Covid has had on your job? It sounds cliché, but I truly realize that I am not in control. This pandemic is bigger than I’ve come so much closer to Christ from knowing that me. It is bigger than our doctors. It is bigger than our whole team. As an ER nurse, I have to He is present in my classroom. I have prayed over my be assertive and know when to take total control of a situation at any given moment. I have classroom every single morning and I have been reminded realized that sometimes, I just have to be along for the ride. I know that there is purpose numerous times to have full trust in Christ, through every and meaning somewhere amongst all of this chaos. And while I have absolutely no idea circumstance. My faith in Christ is what has carried me what that is, I know that God has given me the tools I need to somehow play a very slight through this school year. role in bringing some good out of it. Your loved ones and how you treat people are the only things that matter at the end of the day. Are there any positive takeaway moments you can share that have come from your time navigating or dealing with Are there any positive takeaway moments you can share that have come from your time Covid and the effect it has had on your job? navigating or dealing with Covid and the effect it has had on your job? Every year I’ve taught, I have felt like my students were just Yes! So many! Teamwork makes the dream work! You can’t fight a battle without your army, like my personal children. However, this year is different. and like I previously stated, our staff makes the impossible possible. Since the hospital has We are a family. We are together all day, including lunch been full, patients waiting for a bed in the hospital get stuck down in the ER for days on and recess. My students don’t get to interact and play with end waiting for one to open. Because of that, we get to see people GET BETTER. This is not other classes during recess, so we have grown significantly something that is normally seen in the Emergency Department, because our job is to figure closer. We’ve learned to laugh and joke together every out the problem, stabilize, and then send them to where they need to go. But with nowhere day, reminding ourselves that there is a positive in every for any patients to go, they stay down with us! It has been truly encouraging to see that all situation. of our efforts truly do help people, instead of usually not knowing what ends up happening to them. Any other thoughts you would like to share about how Covid has impacted you in your frontline position? We are exhausted. We are drained. We are all going through some soul searching. However, I can feel the support and the love. I can feel the desperation for normalcy. As hard as it is, I still love my job. I am blessed to be in a career that fulfills me and forces me to not be a couch potato! Covid has made me humble. Literally all of us, people of various professions and backgrounds, are trying to do the best we can in a world where there doesn’t seem to be a right answer. SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life 27

#StayConnected!Join the Conversation Winter Wonderland World Kindness Day It’s a winter wonderland at the Lakeside Campus. The Chisholm Trail Campus celebrated World Kindness Day today! World Kindness Day is a global day that promotes the Teddy Bear Week importance of being kind to each other, to yourself, and to the world. Celebrated on November 13 of each year, the purpose of this event is to help everyone understand that compassion for others is what binds us all together. #NationalKindnessDay #KindnessIsCool #ShineAtSCS Final Score We had so much fun during Teddy Bear week! We enjoyed Teddy Bear math, Teddy Bear stories and writing, reading to our bears, and even a Teddy Bear picnic! Current parents, please join your student’s class Varsity Boys’ Basketball continues their win streak with a win facebook group to keep in touch with teachers on the road against the Lions of Coram Deo! #GoEagles and see what is happening inside the classroom. #SCSBasketball Have you moved? Please email [email protected] to update SCS about your new contact information. southwestchristianschoolfw southwestchristianschool scs_athletics southwestchristianschool 28 SOUTHWEST CHRISTIAN SCHOOL | SCS Life

Final Thoughts “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5 SCS staff member and dad, Shaun Reed, took this breathtaking photo of a sunset over Benbrook Lake behind the Lakeside Campus.

Non Profit Org. US Postage PAID Fort Worth TX Permit 2172 6801 Dan Dancinger Road Fort Worth, TX 76133 (817) 294-0354 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED Academically Excellent | Globally Minded | Distinctively Christian


Like this book? You can publish your book online for free in a few minutes!
Create your own flipbook