Dear High School Community,

I love October Break, especially because my daughter was born during the break five years ago, in the midst of COVID-19. Ever since, it has become a sacred time for our family, a time to step back from busyness, find rest, and remember God’s mercies. I pray that it will offer the same gifts to each of our families.

Even as the break approaches, our dynamic school calendar remains full. Today, our freshmen are participating in a poverty simulation with the wonderful team at Crossroads, accompanied by members of our Student Life team and teacher chaperones. Our U20 volleyball team also has a tournament this weekend. In addition, please remember that the Student Health Services form is due next week, and vaccinations will be administered to those who have registered.

One thing that has stood out to me this year is the progress we are making as a school community. I know that on difficult days, improvement can sometimes be hard to see. Nevertheless, disciplinary cases and several other concerns have decreased significantly compared with previous years. This is an encouraging sign, and I am grateful for the shared efforts of our students, faculty, staff, and families.

My own transition to high school as a teenager was marked by difficulty. As I tried to navigate new social pressures, some poor decisions with friends landed me in serious trouble during my freshman year. Yet I also remember the guidance and grace that my parents, teachers, school administrators, and church leaders extended to me during that season, even when that guidance needed to be firm. Their example remains with me as we continue the important work of nurturing and guiding students within a Christian school community.