from DECATUR HERITAGE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 2016 – 2017 BEING COUNTER-CULTURAL JANUARY - FEBRUARY 2017 VOLUME 17, ISSUE 4 Scott Mayo Headmaster I have always been fascinated by the evolution of language – new words coming into usage, old words becoming archaic, and existing words taking on new meanings. These changes are reflective of changes in the culture in which the words are used to accurately communicate ideas. As a case in point, I grew up in a world where “trolls” were mythical creatures living under bridges. Today, these are very real, very nasty people who frequent social media and the comment sections of online media. How big of a problem has the movement of trolls from fairy tale to Internet been? Online periodicals ranging from Christianity Today to The Week to Popular Science have now dropped their comment sections entirely. While trolls are the poster children for our cultural malaise, the problem is more widespread. Arthur Brooks, president of the American Enterprise Institute, describes it this way: “From this year’s ghastly presidential race, to the reality entertainment that spawned it, to the open sewer backing up from your Twitter feed, it looks like the worst behavior is being publically rewarded, doesn’t it?” His antidote, one that he calls a countercultural statement, is a call to be nice. He admits that niceness “…is not a substitute for more active virtues like generosity and courage,” but it is something we can all practice to make the world a better place. Interestingly, since niceness is so rare in our culture, it will be highly noticeable when practiced! In a world of rampant political correctness, aren’t a little brutal honesty and confrontation needed? As Christians, in fact, aren’t we commanded to stand for our convictions and to be unwilling to compromise truth? Yes, these rhetorical questions are true, but they don’t propose to tell the whole story. Ephesians 4:15 captures the fuller understanding as “speaking the truth in love.” In the prevailing cultural wind of nastiness, have we forgotten the “in love” qualifier? Likewise, I Peter 3:15 prescribes the tone of our approach to reasoning with unbelief as needing to be done with gentleness and respect – respect in that we might be in the wrong in our understanding; and gentleness in that, if we are in the right, it is but by the grace of God. Do these sentiments accurately describe our interactions with others out in the world? Our Leadership Mr. Scott Mayo Headmaster Mr. Jeremy Jones K-12 Chief Learning Leader Mr. Michael Holiday Assistant Principal Mr. Ty Patterson Athletic Director Mr. Steve Atchley Facility Manager & Assistant AD Mrs. Scarlet Bolan Food Service Director Mrs. Melissa Ross Guidance Counselor Mrs. Heather Sasser Chief Financial Officer Board of Trustees Mr. Blake Temple, Chairman Mr. Dan Hicks Mr. Em Barran Mr. Neal Holland Mrs. Blythe Bowman Mr. Stratton Orr Mrs. Lyn Cook Mr. Jeff Parker Mrs. Laura Hellard Dr. Jay Suggs Mrs. Tricia Heyward Mr. Skip Thompson Faculty and Staff Mrs. Patty Annerton Math & Spanish Mrs. Paula Armstrong Business Math & Bible Mrs. Noelle Barron Kindergarten Mrs. Debbie Bishop Second Grade Mrs. Glenda Briley Music Mrs. Libby Brown Projects Coordinator Mrs. Leigh Ann Chiles Instructional Enhancement Facilitator Mrs. Kathy Coffey First Grade Mrs. Debbie Crews Third Grade Mrs. Jennifer Densmore Science Mrs. Bethany Eze Lower School Secretary Mrs. Amy Francis Financial Secretary Mrs. Tracey Gladish Office/CFE Aide Mrs. Beverly Gorden Fifth & Sixth Grade Mrs. Teresa Hall Instructional Aide Mrs. Katherine Helms Government & English Mrs. Mary Kay Hodges Media Center Mrs. Amy Holdbrooks Instructional Aide Mrs. Yvonne Holiday Physical Education Mrs. Sandra Howard Science Mrs. Carole Janorschke Upper School Secretary Mrs. Donna Jarnagin Math Mrs. Rosellen Jones Office/CFE Aide Mrs. Karen Keith Science Mrs. Tammy Legg Food Service Staff Mrs. Becky Linderman Fourth Grade Dr. Cynthia Lovelace Math Mrs. Kerstin Lynch Fourth Grade Mrs. Alyssa Maddox Third Grade Mr. Jason Marshall Physical Education Mrs. Donna Mayo Office/CFE Aide Mrs. Melissa McCulloch Writing Enhancement Facilitator Mrs. Julie McGough English Mr. Steve Meek Physical Education & History Mrs. Dustin Mitchell Technology Mrs. Connie Murray Instructional Enhancement Facilitator Mrs. Kim Parker Health Room Facilitator Mrs. Paizley Peebles First Grade Mrs. Leah Reid Fifth & Sixth Grade Mrs. Cathy Schmid Fifth & Sixth Grade Mrs. Melissa Simpson Food Service Staff Mrs. Brenda Smith Second Grade Mrs. Sandy Stephenson Kindergarten Mrs. Sylvia Teague Math Mrs. Angie Teichmiller History Mrs. Holly Thompson Athletic Secretary Mrs. Amy Tubbs Art Mrs. Laura Frasher Tuttle English Mr. David Walker Band Mrs. Irina Washburn Russian Mrs. Barbara Wright Technology Mrs. Angela Wynn English (Continued on Page 3)
Transcript
1
from DECATUR HERITAGE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY 2016–2017
BEING COUNTER-CULTURALJANUARY - FEBRUARY 2017
VOLUME 17, ISSUE 4
Scott MayoHeadmaster
(Continued on Page 3)
I have always been fascinated by the evolution of language – new words coming into usage, old words becoming archaic, and existing words taking on new meanings. These changes are reflective of changes in the culture in which the words are used to accurately communicate ideas. As a case in point, I grew up in a world where “trolls” were mythical creatures living under bridges. Today, these are very real, very nasty people who frequent social media and the comment sections of online media. How big of a problem has the movement of trolls from fairy tale to Internet been? Online periodicals ranging from Christianity Today to The Week to Popular Science have now dropped their comment sections entirely.
While trolls are the poster children for our cultural malaise, the problem is more widespread. Arthur Brooks, president of the American Enterprise Institute, describes it this way: “From this year’s ghastly presidential race, to the reality entertainment that spawned it, to the open sewer backing up from your Twitter feed, it looks like the worst behavior is being publically rewarded, doesn’t it?” His antidote, one that he calls a countercultural statement, is a call to be nice. He admits that niceness “…is not a substitute for more active virtues like generosity and courage,” but it is something we can all practice to make the world a better place. Interestingly, since niceness is so rare in our culture, it will be highly noticeable when practiced!
In a world of rampant political correctness, aren’t a little brutal honesty and confrontation needed? As Christians, in fact, aren’t we commanded to stand for our convictions and to be unwilling to compromise truth? Yes, these rhetorical questions are true, but they don’t propose to tell the whole story. Ephesians 4:15 captures the fuller understanding as “speaking the truth in love.” In the prevailing cultural wind of nastiness, have we forgotten the “in love” qualifier? Likewise, I Peter 3:15 prescribes the tone of our approach to reasoning with unbelief as needing to be done with gentleness and respect – respect in that we might be in the wrong in our understanding; and gentleness in that, if we are in the right, it is but by the grace of God. Do these sentiments accurately describe our interactions with others out in the world?
Our Leadership
Mr. Scott Mayo HeadmasterMr. Jeremy Jones K-12 Chief Learning LeaderMr. Michael Holiday Assistant PrincipalMr. Ty Patterson Athletic DirectorMr. Steve Atchley Facility Manager & Assistant ADMrs. Scarlet Bolan Food Service DirectorMrs. Melissa Ross Guidance CounselorMrs. Heather Sasser Chief Financial Officer
Board of Trustees
Mr. Blake Temple, Chairman Mr. Dan HicksMr. Em Barran Mr. Neal HollandMrs. Blythe Bowman Mr. Stratton OrrMrs. Lyn Cook Mr. Jeff Parker Mrs. Laura Hellard Dr. Jay SuggsMrs. Tricia Heyward Mr. Skip Thompson
Faculty and Staff
Mrs. Patty Annerton Math & SpanishMrs. Paula Armstrong Business Math & Bible Mrs. Noelle Barron KindergartenMrs. Debbie Bishop Second Grade Mrs. Glenda Briley MusicMrs. Libby Brown Projects CoordinatorMrs. Leigh Ann Chiles Instructional Enhancement FacilitatorMrs. Kathy Coffey First GradeMrs. Debbie Crews Third GradeMrs. Jennifer Densmore ScienceMrs. Bethany Eze Lower School SecretaryMrs. Amy Francis Financial SecretaryMrs. Tracey Gladish Office/CFE AideMrs. Beverly Gorden Fifth & Sixth GradeMrs. Teresa Hall Instructional AideMrs. Katherine Helms Government & EnglishMrs. Mary Kay Hodges Media CenterMrs. Amy Holdbrooks Instructional AideMrs. Yvonne Holiday Physical EducationMrs. Sandra Howard ScienceMrs. Carole Janorschke Upper School SecretaryMrs. Donna Jarnagin MathMrs. Rosellen Jones Office/CFE AideMrs. Karen Keith ScienceMrs. Tammy Legg Food Service StaffMrs. Becky Linderman Fourth Grade Dr. Cynthia Lovelace MathMrs. Kerstin Lynch Fourth GradeMrs. Alyssa Maddox Third GradeMr. Jason Marshall Physical EducationMrs. Donna Mayo Office/CFE AideMrs. Melissa McCulloch Writing Enhancement FacilitatorMrs. Julie McGough EnglishMr. Steve Meek Physical Education & HistoryMrs. Dustin Mitchell TechnologyMrs. Connie Murray Instructional Enhancement FacilitatorMrs. Kim Parker Health Room FacilitatorMrs. Paizley Peebles First GradeMrs. Leah Reid Fifth & Sixth GradeMrs. Cathy Schmid Fifth & Sixth GradeMrs. Melissa Simpson Food Service StaffMrs. Brenda Smith Second GradeMrs. Sandy Stephenson KindergartenMrs. Sylvia Teague MathMrs. Angie Teichmiller History Mrs. Holly Thompson Athletic SecretaryMrs. Amy Tubbs ArtMrs. Laura Frasher Tuttle EnglishMr. David Walker BandMrs. Irina Washburn RussianMrs. Barbara Wright TechnologyMrs. Angela Wynn English
Scott MayoHeadmaster
(Continued on Page 3)
I have always been fascinated by the evolution of language – new words coming into usage, old words becoming archaic, and existing words taking on new meanings. These changes are reflective of changes in the culture in which the words are used to accurately communicate ideas. As a case in point, I grew up in a world where “trolls” were mythical creatures living under bridges. Today, these are very real, very nasty people who frequent social media and the comment sections of online media. How big of a problem has the movement of trolls from fairy tale to Internet been? Online periodicals ranging from Christianity Today to The Week to Popular Science have now dropped their comment sections entirely.
While trolls are the poster children for our cultural malaise, the problem is more widespread. Arthur Brooks, president of the American Enterprise Institute, describes it this way: “From this year’s ghastly presidential race, to the reality entertainment that spawned it, to the open sewer backing up from your Twitter feed, it looks like the worst behavior is being publically rewarded, doesn’t it?” His antidote, one that he calls a countercultural statement, is a call to be nice. He admits that niceness “…is not a substitute for more active virtues like generosity and courage,” but it is something we can all practice to make the world a better place. Interestingly, since niceness is so rare in our culture, it will be highly noticeable when practiced!
In a world of rampant political correctness, aren’t a little brutal honesty and confrontation needed? As Christians, in fact, aren’t we commanded to stand for our convictions and to be unwilling to compromise truth? Yes, these rhetorical questions are true, but they don’t propose to tell the whole story. Ephesians 4:15 captures the fuller understanding as “speaking the truth in love.” In the prevailing cultural wind of nastiness, have we forgotten the “in love” qualifier? Likewise, I Peter 3:15 prescribes the tone of our approach to reasoning with unbelief as needing to be done with gentleness and respect – respect in that we might be in the wrong in our understanding; and gentleness in that, if we are in the right, it is but by the grace of God. Do these sentiments accurately describe our interactions with others out in the world?
2
BEING COUNTER-CULTURAL
“...until he knew that the Most High God rules the kingdom of mankind and sets over it whom he will.” Daniel 5:21b
Last year, we initiated online registration via . We will continue this process for the upcoming 2017-2018 school year. Please be aware that student records will be generated by the information as it appears in . Capitalization and punctuation rules will apply for the process. For example, if information fields are in all caps, records will be generated in all caps as well as all lower case entries. Instructions for online registration will be furnished via email in February 2017.
During the priority enrollment period (March 1 - April 2), you may re-enroll current students, including siblings who were not attending during the 2016-2017 school year. The registration fee of $175 per student will be discounted to $150 during this time. Additionally, an assessment fee of $75 will be charged for ALL new students. Open enrollment begins Monday, April 3rd. All re-enrollments received on or after that date will require the full $175.
For those using the FACTS payment plan, their enrollment fee will be $45. Please contact the finance office to update your FACTS account if your banking information has changed.
If you are not currently enrolled in the FACTS plan and wish to use this option for tuition payments or if you have any other financial questions, please contact Amy Francis in the finance office at 256-432-2691.
Be sure to reserve your spot during the priority enrollment period!
Thank you for your investment toprepare students for lives of impact!
PRIORITY RE-ENROLLMENT FOR 2017-2018Begins March 1 and Ends April 2
2016-2017 Annual Fund$16,495
as of December 16, 2016
2017-2018 School CalendarAugust 8 First Day of SchoolSeptember 4 Labor Day HolidaySeptember 19 Student Half-day DismissalOctober 9 Fall Break HolidayNovember 10 Veterans Day HolidayNovember 20-24 Thanksgiving HolidaysDecember 12-15 Upper School ExamsDecember 15 Classes Dismiss for HolidaysJanuary 4 Classes ResumeJanuary 15* MLK Day HolidayFebruary 19* Presidents’ Day HolidayMarch 6 Student Half-day DismissalMarch 19-23 Spring Break HolidaysMarch 30 Good Friday HolidayMay 22-25 Upper School ExamsMay 25 Classes Dismiss for SummerMay 25 Senior Graduation
*Inclement weather make-up days
2017-2018Enrollment Procedures
WELCOME NEW FACULTY
Dustin Mitchell joined the DHCA faculty to teach technology and will also serve as yearbook sponsor. Originally from Tahlequah, Oklahoma, she earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts with an emphasis in graphic design. She has worked as a free-lance graphic designer. Mrs. Mitchell has published two books, "Alivia's Angels" and "Freshman Year : A Youth Devotional for Teen Girls.”
Mrs. Mitchell is married to Michael and they attend New Song Family Church. Mrs. Mitchell learned about Decatur Heritage from former teacher Kristi Long and served as a guest teacher before joining the faculty full time.
Mrs. Mitchell comments “I believe that I have a lot to share with the students and plenty to contribute to DHCA.”
Welcome Mrs. Mitchell to the DHCA family!
Last year, we initiated online registration via . We will continue this process for the upcoming 2017-2018 school year. Please be aware that student records will be generated by the information as it appears in . Capitalization and punctuation rules will apply for the process. For example, if information fields are in all caps, records will be generated in all caps as well as all lower case entries. Instructions for online registration will be furnished via email in February 2017.
During the priority enrollment period (March 1 - April 2), you may re-enroll current students, including siblings who were not attending during the 2016-2017 school year. The registration fee of $175 per student will be discounted to $150 during this time. Additionally, an assessment fee of $75 will be charged for ALL new students. Open enrollment begins Monday, April 3rd. All re-enrollments received on or after that date will require the full $175.
For those using the FACTS payment plan, their enrollment fee will be $45. Please contact the finance office to update your FACTS account if your banking information has changed.
If you are not currently enrolled in the FACTS plan and wish to use this option for tuition payments or if you have any other financial questions, please contact Amy Francis in the finance office at 256-432-2691.
Be sure to reserve your spot during the priority enrollment period!
Thank you for your investment toprepare students for lives of impact!
PRIORITY RE-ENROLLMENT FOR 2017-2018Begins March 1 and Ends April 2
2016-2017 Annual Fund$16,495
as of December 16, 2016
2017-2018 School CalendarAugust 8 First Day of SchoolSeptember 4 Labor Day HolidaySeptember 19 Student Half-day DismissalOctober 9 Fall Break HolidayNovember 10 Veterans Day HolidayNovember 20-24 Thanksgiving HolidaysDecember 12-15 Upper School ExamsDecember 15 Classes Dismiss for HolidaysJanuary 4 Classes ResumeJanuary 15* MLK Day HolidayFebruary 19* Presidents’ Day HolidayMarch 6 Student Half-day DismissalMarch 19-23 Spring Break HolidaysMarch 30 Good Friday HolidayMay 22-25 Upper School ExamsMay 25 Classes Dismiss for SummerMay 25 Senior Graduation
*Inclement weather make-up days
2017-2018Enrollment Procedures
WELCOME NEW FACULTY
Dustin Mitchell joined the DHCA faculty to teach technology and will also serve as yearbook sponsor. Originally from Tahlequah, Oklahoma, she earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts with an emphasis in graphic design. She has worked as a free-lance graphic designer. Mrs. Mitchell has published two books, "Alivia's Angels" and "Freshman Year : A Youth Devotional for Teen Girls.”
Mrs. Mitchell is married to Michael and they attend New Song Family Church. Mrs. Mitchell learned about Decatur Heritage from former teacher Kristi Long and served as a guest teacher before joining the faculty full time.
Mrs. Mitchell comments “I believe that I have a lot to share with the students and plenty to contribute to DHCA.”
Welcome Mrs. Mitchell to the DHCA family!
Last year, we initiated online registration via . We will continue this process for the upcoming 2017-2018 school year. Please be aware that student records will be generated by the information as it appears in . Capitalization and punctuation rules will apply for the process. For example, if information fields are in all caps, records will be generated in all caps as well as all lower case entries. Instructions for online registration will be furnished via email in February 2017.
During the priority enrollment period (March 1 - April 2), you may re-enroll current students, including siblings who were not attending during the 2016-2017 school year. The registration fee of $175 per student will be discounted to $150 during this time. Additionally, an assessment fee of $75 will be charged for ALL new students. Open enrollment begins Monday, April 3rd. All re-enrollments received on or after that date will require the full $175.
For those using the FACTS payment plan, their enrollment fee will be $45. Please contact the finance office to update your FACTS account if your banking information has changed.
If you are not currently enrolled in the FACTS plan and wish to use this option for tuition payments or if you have any other financial questions, please contact Amy Francis in the finance office at 256-432-2691.
Be sure to reserve your spot during the priority enrollment period!
Thank you for your investment toprepare students for lives of impact!
PRIORITY RE-ENROLLMENT FOR 2017-2018Begins March 1 and Ends April 2
2016-2017 Annual Fund$16,495
as of December 16, 2016
2017-2018 School CalendarAugust 8 First Day of SchoolSeptember 4 Labor Day HolidaySeptember 19 Student Half-day DismissalOctober 9 Fall Break HolidayNovember 10 Veterans Day HolidayNovember 20-24 Thanksgiving HolidaysDecember 12-15 Upper School ExamsDecember 15 Classes Dismiss for HolidaysJanuary 4 Classes ResumeJanuary 15* MLK Day HolidayFebruary 19* Presidents’ Day HolidayMarch 6 Student Half-day DismissalMarch 19-23 Spring Break HolidaysMarch 30 Good Friday HolidayMay 22-25 Upper School ExamsMay 25 Classes Dismiss for SummerMay 25 Senior Graduation
*Inclement weather make-up days
2017-2018Enrollment Procedures
WELCOME NEW FACULTY
Dustin Mitchell joined the DHCA faculty to teach technology and will also serve as yearbook sponsor. Originally from Tahlequah, Oklahoma, she earned a bachelor’s degree in fine arts with an emphasis in graphic design. She has worked as a free-lance graphic designer. Mrs. Mitchell has published two books, "Alivia's Angels" and "Freshman Year : A Youth Devotional for Teen Girls.”
Mrs. Mitchell is married to Michael and they attend New Song Family Church. Mrs. Mitchell learned about Decatur Heritage from former teacher Kristi Long and served as a guest teacher before joining the faculty full time.
Mrs. Mitchell comments “I believe that I have a lot to share with the students and plenty to contribute to DHCA.”
Welcome Mrs. Mitchell to the DHCA family!
3Decatur Heritage Christian Academy is a 501-C-3 non-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Memorials, honorariums, and gifts may be mailed to DHCA, P. O. Box 5659, Decatur, AL 35601-0659.
written by Jacob QuinnPresident, Class of 2017
SENIOR
SCOPE
As the end of the school year comes closer, it is exciting to think ahead towards our college education. DHCA has prepared each senior not only for the transition to more challenging classes but also has taught us how to be involved in our school and community to make an impact. As each senior begins to decide what major to pursue, it is important for us to think beyond our own plan and focus on God’s plan for our life. At Decatur Heritage, we have been faithfully taught that our life has a purpose and that God will use our education to fulfill His plans. In just a few short months, we will be leaving DHCA. We take with us all we have been taught as we go to different places for college and then onward to opportunities God has for us in our lives. I encourage each student to find what interests you, whether it be a favorite subject or career, and start to think how God can use you to fulfill His plans.
The context of much of the cultural nastiness in America is being played out in what seems to be a deeply divided populace. Some of those dividing lines fall in familiar places – politics, race, gender, or socioeconomic status. What appears to be unique to our times is how widespread and virulent the tribalism has become. Opposing sides are demonized, giving little room for any sort of constructive dialogue. As Christians, how do we keep from being seen as just one more screaming interest group in this seething mass, demanding respect and accommodation while taking no prisoners? Is that the witness God desires?
Let us remember two things to help temper our interactions with our culture. First, God says that much of the division we create has no place in the Kingdom. Our standing before our Creator is not based on being Jew or Greek, male or female (Galatians 3:28). We have an eternal bond with believers, regardless of what team they support, what lever they pull in the voting booth, or on which side of a border they live. We should try acting that way more often.
Second, as we go about our daily lives, we should intentionally and conscientiously strive to be nicer. There are all sorts of ways to embody that sentiment: be winsome, be polite, be friendly. As a start, maybe we should just try to be civil if to be nice is too hard! Yes, being redeemed is so much richer and fuller than just being nice. It shouldn’t mean less, however, especially when doing so would be an authentic, visible way to be counter-cultural.
(Continued from front cover)
Students serving the community andthe Decatur Heritage family...
Late November, an area south of Decatur was struck by an EF3 tornado, destroying homes and businesses. The business of one of our Decatur Heritage family was destroyed. Fellow sophomore classmates of Lance Callahan spent a day cleaning the family business.
Above all, keep loving one another earnestly,
since love covers a multitude of sins. Show hospitality to one another without
grumbling. As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good
stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of
God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies-
in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ.
1 Peter 4:10
4 “OUR MISSION is to assist families by providing their children with an education
HERITAGE HEADLINESALUMNI
SPOTLIGHT
Donnie, Nathan, Lindsey Dotson
My name is Lindsey Brown Dotson and I am a 2009 graduate from Decatur Heritage Christian Academy. I attended DHCA from first grade through my senior year of high school. After graduation, I attended University of North Alabama, Calhoun Community College, and Athens State University, where I graduated with a bachelor of science degree. I am now married to the love of my life, Donnie Dotson, and we have a two-year old son, Nathan. While I plan to pursue my career within the next couple of years, I have highly enjoyed being a stay-at-home mom.
Thinking back on my twelve years at Decatur Heritage, I am overwhelmed with so many wonderful memories. Without question, the best memories I have were playing basketball for Coach John Cochran. He started working with me in the seventh grade and continued to push me until my senior year of high school. From athletic P.E. to basketball camps, our team shared many laughs, tears, and sweat. I will never forget Coach Cochran lying face down on the gym floor looking for a piece of jewelry that was lost during practice. Coach Cochran genuinely loved us and treated us as if we were his own daughters.
Another lasting memory would be Mr. Holiday’s Bible class. During our senior year, he earnestly tried to prepare us for college. Before graduating, we were all required to defend our faith using scripture. While I honestly never thought that I would actually be questioned about my faith, I was. I had a couple professors who had completely different views than I did. In classroom discussions, speeches, and tests, I ended up having to defend my faith on numerous occasions. This was very different for me because I was in the minority, which was unfamiliar to me. I am forever grateful for my parents sending me to Decatur Heritage. They had to sacrifice so much so that we could grow up in a Christian environment.
Lindsey Brown Dotson
Students, teachers, parents, and administrators paid tribute in a community-wide celebration of veterans and their families for their service to our country. Before entering the reception in the cafetorium, our honored guests were greeted with "The Walls of Honor" and student artwork. A festive celebration was held in the gym which included “Programmed Prose” by the DHCA Forensic Team, musical performances by the DHCA varsity concert band, students, and Mrs. Heather Kyle, and comments from LTC. Darrell Martin, Alabama State Senator Arthur Orr, and Alabama House Representative Mrs. Terri Collins.
A VETERANS’ CELEBRATION...God Bless the U.S.A.
5tha t i s exce l l en t and wh ich in s t i l l s B ib l i ca l p r inc ip l e s to gu ide the i r l i ve s .”
Why We ChoseDecatur Heritage...
Mike and Julie Burleson
Center For Excellence Spring 2017March 29 - May 10
Classes will include painting, cooking, robotics, fencing, ballet, tumbling, Bricks 4 Kidz, “Mad Scientists,” and a variety of sport offerings.
Julie, Riley (’26), and Mike Burleson
Registration begins early March!
We are Mike and Julie Burleson. Both of us are from Decatur. Mike graduated from Austin High School in 1998 and Julie did the same in 1999. Mike is a robbery homicide detective for the Decatur Police Department. Julie is the owner and a hair stylist at Silkroad Salon in downtown Decatur. We have attended First Bible Church for about 13 years.
� There were several things that led us to choose Decatur Heritage for our daughter Riley. We had, until this year, spent three years in Decatur City Schools and had been reasonably unhappy. We wanted Riley to learn in a place that teaches and upholds biblical principles. We knew that was not possible within the public school system. Other than that, there were several other things that attracted us to Decatur Heritage including smaller class size, warm, welcoming environment, fantastic staff, and a true sense that everyone in the school cared about us and wanted to help raise our daughter in a true Christian environment.
� After visiting several times, we were convinced that Decatur Heritage was the place we wanted Riley to get her education. Since she has been a student at Decatur Heritage, we have been amazed at how much she has learned and how she has thrived in school. She loves school even more now and has even said that she doesn’t like having days off for the weekend. Even after just one semester at Decatur Heritage, we can’t imagine her going to school anywhere else.
Matthew Sasseralumnus 2013
Matthew Sasser recently conducted the Auburn University Men's Chorus at their fall choral concert. Under the direction of choral director, Dr. William Powell, Matthew was able to select the piece, teach it to the choir, and conduct it at the concert. The piece, “O Lux Beatissima” is a latin piece that means: O Light most blessed, fill the inmost heart of all thy faithful. Without your grace, there is nothing in us, nothing that is not harmful.
Matthew is a senior at Auburn University with a double major in Music Performance (Classical Guitar) and English.
Classes resume January 4
6
DHCA Students
The Heritage Forensic Team competed in two venues. Justin McCleskey (’19) earned fourth place in the Varsity Lincoln-Douglas debate at Spain Park High School. In the PrattVegas Christmas Classic, Grace Haulie Johnson (’19) and Marilyn Sample (’18) competed in public forum debate and Justin McCleskey placed fifth in the Lincoln-Douglas debate. Congratulations!
Forensic Team News
Robotics Team
The Robotics Team recently competed in the BEST (Boost Engineering, Science, and Technology) competition finishing fifth place and celebrated its first female driver, Katelyn McDaniel (’22). The BEST program excels at preparing youth to become technologically proficient.
Pictured front row are Connor Francis, Katelyn McDaniel, Aiden Garriss, and Gabe Wallace. Pictured back row are Owen Trippany, Hunter Dupes, Seth Thompson, Aaron Francis, Taylor Lindley, and Justin McCleskey.
How are Decatur Heritage seniors scoring on the ACT? Below is a breakdown so far this year.
Seniors37 of the 40 seniors have taken the test.17 students (46%) scored 25 or above
and 9 (24%) of the forty scored 30 or above.
Jinger Heath’s (’23) win in PGA Junior League Regional Golf Tournament in Oklahoma entitled her a trip to the national tournament held in Phoenix, Arizona. Jinger trained in the Bocking Golf Academy with Craig Bocking, PGA Pro.
She also won the 49th AnnualPigeon Dove Junior Championshipand the Bud Burns Championship.
Congratulations, Jinger!
Spelling Bee
Pictured left is Juliana Hudry (’21), Grand Champion 2016, the winner of the DHCA Spelling Bee. First alternate is Hanish Edupuganti (right) and second alternate is Ashlyn Jones (center). Juliana will advance to the Morgan County Spelling Bee to be held in February. Students competing were Lexi Brown, Juliana Hudry, Ellie Metzgar, Alex Malone, Hanish Edupuganti, Kinley Terry, Ashlyn Jones, Riggs McLeod, Miller McLeod, Kendal Davis, Tori Vandiver, Braden Weathers, Lucy Daigre, Kaylee Bryant, and Lexi Scott.
Missions TeamThe seventh grade missions team has adopted Ms. Bishop’s second grade class at Nungester while the eighth grade missions team has adopted Mrs. Penley’s class at Austinville. Each month, the teams read, do a seasonal craft, and have snack with the students. For Christmas, our students made an ornament for their friends at Nungester and Austinville.
Rising Golf Star
Visit our website at www.dhca.org.
7
HERITAGE HIGHLIGHTS
Decatur Heritage Christian Academy is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and is a member in good standing with the Association of Christian Schools International.
“Sing We Now of Christmas”presented by kindergarten
and first grade students
“All About That Baby” presented by second through
sixth grade students
“The Sounds of the Season” presented by Decatur Heritage Concert Band
A fundraising event sponsored by theDecatur Heritage
Parent Association!
Friday, March 10
Register at www.imathlete.com
Welcome New StudentsKatilyn Viers, 6th grade, and Jackson Nance, 2nd grade
children of Johnetta Viers
Tag Love, 3rd gradeson of Ali Love and Travis Cline
Saturday, March 11, 8am
5K Run
Lower School Fun Run
Sacks
of
Love
S.A.C.K.S. of Love Ministry Students Acting with Compassion and Kindness through Service
On the third Friday of each month, DHCA delivers S.A.C.K.S. of Love to 50 students at Somerville Road Elementary School. The S.A.C.K.S. provide food for the weekend.
We are in need of nonperishable, individually wrapped food that a child could prepare independent of an adult such as:Breakfast - Pop Tarts, granola bars, individual servings of cereal
Pictured below are Emily Hubbard - All-County; Ensley Johnson - All-County; and Emakay Arnold - All-County.
Congratulations, Lady Eagles!
SENIOR ATHLETESBASKETBALL
BOYS
GIRLSPatrick Benefield Jacob McCamon Shawn Metzgar Clay Shaw Grayson Wakefield
Andrea Ayers Timara Bowers Brianna Cagle Cassidy CheathamBrianna Cagle Emily Herbert
9
SPRING SPORTS ARE JUST AROUND THE CORNER.......BASEBALL
Coach Steve Meek
SOFTBALLCoach Don Smith
GOLF
GIRLS’ SOCCERCoach Beverly Gorden
January 9thThrowing andConditioning
Season BeginsFebruary 20th
January 9thThrowing andConditioning
Season BeginsFebruary 20th
January 30thPractice Begins
Season BeginsFebruary 20th
January 23rdPractice Begins
Season BeginsFebruary 13th
BOYS’ TENNISCoach Randy Stephenson
GIRLS’ TENNIS Coach Sandy Stephenson
TRACK & FIELD Coach Jason Marshall
January 16thPractice Begins
January 16thPractice Begins
February 10thPractice Begins
Season BeginsFebruary 6th
Season BeginsFebruary 6th
Season BeginsMarch 2nd
January 30thPractice Begins
January 30thPractice Begins
The Eagle Eyes shooting team represented DHCA quite well in competitive shoots throughout the southeast and in Sparta, Illinois at the World shoot. It is a great outlet for building relationships among students and their families. Our students are very competitive at a high level while competing against much larger teams and even college shooting teams. Several of our shooters have earned awards and recognition at the state and national level. The most recent honor went to Abby Terry who participated at the Rebel Yell shoot in Montgomery. Abby shot in the 200 singles event and scored a total of 186 and claimed first place in the Lady 1 division!
Support yourDecatur Heritage Eagles!
Schedules available at www.dhca.org/athletics/schedules
The Athletic Department wants to recognize Dr. Hurst for his service to coach the cross-country team for the past 14 years. Thank you, Coach Hurst, for your faithful service to the students and to Decatur Heritage.
Thank you, Dr. Vernon Hurst!
SPRING SPORTS ARE JUST AROUND THE CORNER.......BASEBALL
Coach Steve Meek
SOFTBALLCoach Don Smith
GOLF
GIRLS’ SOCCERCoach Beverly Gorden
January 9thThrowing andConditioning
Season BeginsFebruary 20th
January 9thThrowing andConditioning
Season BeginsFebruary 20th
January 30thPractice Begins
Season BeginsFebruary 20th
January 23rdPractice Begins
Season BeginsFebruary 13th
BOYS’ TENNISCoach Randy Stephenson
GIRLS’ TENNIS Coach Sandy Stephenson
TRACK & FIELD Coach Jason Marshall
January 16thPractice Begins
January 16thPractice Begins
February 10thPractice Begins
Season BeginsFebruary 6th
Season BeginsFebruary 6th
Season BeginsMarch 2nd
January 30thPractice Begins
January 30thPractice Begins
The Eagle Eyes shooting team represented DHCA quite well in competitive shoots throughout the southeast and in Sparta, Illinois at the World shoot. It is a great outlet for building relationships among students and their families. Our students are very competitive at a high level while competing against much larger teams and even college shooting teams. Several of our shooters have earned awards and recognition at the state and national level. The most recent honor went to Abby Terry who participated at the Rebel Yell shoot in Montgomery. Abby shot in the 200 singles event and scored a total of 186 and claimed first place in the Lady 1 division!
Support yourDecatur Heritage Eagles!
Schedules available at www.dhca.org/athletics/schedules
The Athletic Department wants to recognize Dr. Hurst for his service to coach the cross-country team for the past 14 years. Thank you, Coach Hurst, for your faithful service to the students and to Decatur Heritage.
Thank you, Dr. Vernon Hurst!
SPRING SPORTS ARE JUST AROUND THE CORNER.......BASEBALL
Coach Steve Meek
SOFTBALLCoach Don Smith
GOLF
GIRLS’ SOCCERCoach Beverly Gorden
January 9thThrowing andConditioning
Season BeginsFebruary 20th
January 9thThrowing andConditioning
Season BeginsFebruary 20th
January 30thPractice Begins
Season BeginsFebruary 20th
January 23rdPractice Begins
Season BeginsFebruary 13th
BOYS’ TENNISCoach Randy Stephenson
GIRLS’ TENNIS Coach Sandy Stephenson
TRACK & FIELD Coach Jason Marshall
January 16thPractice Begins
January 16thPractice Begins
February 10thPractice Begins
Season BeginsFebruary 6th
Season BeginsFebruary 6th
Season BeginsMarch 2nd
January 30thPractice Begins
January 30thPractice Begins
The Eagle Eyes shooting team represented DHCA quite well in competitive shoots throughout the southeast and in Sparta, Illinois at the World shoot. It is a great outlet for building relationships among students and their families. Our students are very competitive at a high level while competing against much larger teams and even college shooting teams. Several of our shooters have earned awards and recognition at the state and national level. The most recent honor went to Abby Terry who participated at the Rebel Yell shoot in Montgomery. Abby shot in the 200 singles event and scored a total of 186 and claimed first place in the Lady 1 division!
Support yourDecatur Heritage Eagles!
Schedules available at www.dhca.org/athletics/schedules
The Athletic Department wants to recognize Dr. Hurst for his service to coach the cross-country team for the past 14 years. Thank you, Coach Hurst, for your faithful service to the students and to Decatur Heritage.
Thank you, Dr. Vernon Hurst!
SPRING SPORTS ARE JUST AROUND THE CORNER.......BASEBALL
Coach Steve Meek
SOFTBALLCoach Don Smith
GOLF
GIRLS’ SOCCERCoach Beverly Gorden
January 9thThrowing andConditioning
Season BeginsFebruary 20th
January 9thThrowing andConditioning
Season BeginsFebruary 20th
January 30thPractice Begins
Season BeginsFebruary 20th
January 23rdPractice Begins
Season BeginsFebruary 13th
BOYS’ TENNISCoach Randy Stephenson
GIRLS’ TENNIS Coach Sandy Stephenson
TRACK & FIELD Coach Jason Marshall
January 16thPractice Begins
January 16thPractice Begins
February 10thPractice Begins
Season BeginsFebruary 6th
Season BeginsFebruary 6th
Season BeginsMarch 2nd
January 30thPractice Begins
January 30thPractice Begins
The Eagle Eyes shooting team represented DHCA quite well in competitive shoots throughout the southeast and in Sparta, Illinois at the World shoot. It is a great outlet for building relationships among students and their families. Our students are very competitive at a high level while competing against much larger teams and even college shooting teams. Several of our shooters have earned awards and recognition at the state and national level. The most recent honor went to Abby Terry who participated at the Rebel Yell shoot in Montgomery. Abby shot in the 200 singles event and scored a total of 186 and claimed first place in the Lady 1 division!
Support yourDecatur Heritage Eagles!
Schedules available at www.dhca.org/athletics/schedules
The Athletic Department wants to recognize Dr. Hurst for his service to coach the cross-country team for the past 14 years. Thank you, Coach Hurst, for your faithful service to the students and to Decatur Heritage.
Thank you, Dr. Vernon Hurst!
10
Classesresumetoday!
Holiday
Kim Parker’s Birthday
Teresa Hall’s Birthday
Yvonne Holiday’s Birthday
Basketball schedules are available atwww.dhca.org under “Athletics”Leigh Ann
Priority enrollment for 2017-2018 school year begins March 1 for current students
Tournament play details will be announced at www.dhca.org under “Athletics”.
Visit www.dhca.org under the “Athletics” tab for spring sports schedules
Amy Francis’ Birthday
Progress Reports available via
Amy Tubb’s Birthday
Beverly Gorden’s BirthdayJulie McGough
Birthday
at www.dhca.org
“Stars Fallon DHCA”dinner and talent show
Holiday
Priority enrollment for 2017-2018 school year begins March 1 for current students
Tournament play details will be announced at www.dhca.org under “Athletics”.
Visit www.dhca.org under the “Athletics” tab for spring sports schedules
Amy Francis’ Birthday
Progress Reports available via
Amy Tubb’s Birthday
Beverly Gorden’s BirthdayJulie McGough
Birthday
at www.dhca.org
“Stars Fallon DHCA”dinner and talent show
Holiday
Priority enrollment for 2017-2018 school year begins March 1 for current students
Tournament play details will be announced at www.dhca.org under “Athletics”.
Visit www.dhca.org under the “Athletics” tab for spring sports schedules
Amy Francis’ Birthday
Progress Reports available via
Amy Tubb’s Birthday
Beverly Gorden’s BirthdayJulie McGough
Birthday
at www.dhca.org
“Stars Fallon DHCA”dinner and talent show
Holiday
Priority enrollment for 2017-2018 school year begins March 1 for current students
Tournament play details will be announced at www.dhca.org under “Athletics”.
Visit www.dhca.org under the “Athletics” tab for spring sports schedules
Amy Francis’ Birthday
Progress Reports available via
Amy Tubb’s Birthday
Beverly Gorden’s BirthdayJulie McGough
Birthday
at www.dhca.org
“Stars Fallon DHCA”dinner and talent show
Holiday
Priority enrollment for 2017-2018 school year begins March 1 for current students
Tournament play details will be announced at www.dhca.org under “Athletics”.
Visit www.dhca.org under the “Athletics” tab for spring sports schedules
Amy Francis’ Birthday
Progress Reports available via
Amy Tubb’s Birthday
Beverly Gorden’s BirthdayJulie McGough
Birthday
at www.dhca.org
“Stars Fallon DHCA”dinner and talent show
HERITAGE PREVIEWA First Hand Look at the Heritage Difference
Do you realize that YOU, as a part of the Decatur Heritage family, are the BEST source of advertising to promote Decatur Heritage? A wealth of validity and credibility is conveyed as you relate your experience and invite your family, friends, fellow church members, and business associates who are considering school options for the upcoming school year.
An early introduction to see “Decatur Heritage in action” will help them as they discern their school options. Visiting the school and scheduling a shadow day for their student allows parents to see what is unique about the school and prospective students can experience a Decatur Heritage school day. Once the parents have previewed the school and the student has shadowed for a day, the enrollment process may begin.
Please invite your family and friends who might consider or who are considering enrolling their children in Decatur Heritage to drop by anytime Monday through Friday 8:30am to 2pm to tour the campus, see Decatur Heritage in action, and talk with an administrator. No appointment is necessary.
We look forward to meeting many prospective parents and students as the 2017-2018 enrollment process begins!
Experience THE Difference
NONPROFITU.S. POSTAGE
PAIDDecatur, AL
35601Permit No. 805
RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED
Decatur Heritage Christian Academy is a 501-C-3 non-profit organization. All donations are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. Memorials, honorariums, and gifts may be mailed to DHCA, P. O. Box 5659, Decatur, AL 35601-0659.
HERITAGE PREVIEWA First Hand Look at the Heritage Difference
Do you realize that YOU, as a part of the Decatur Heritage family, are the BEST source of advertising to promote Decatur Heritage? A wealth of validity and credibility is conveyed as you relate your experience and invite your family, friends, fellow church members, and business associates who are considering school options for the upcoming school year.
An early introduction to see “Decatur Heritage in action” will help them as they discern their school options. Visiting the school and scheduling a shadow day for their student allows parents to see what is unique about the school and prospective students can experience a Decatur Heritage school day. Once the parents have previewed the school and the student has shadowed for a day, the enrollment process may begin.
Please invite your family and friends who might consider or who are considering enrolling their children in Decatur Heritage to drop by anytime Monday through Friday 8:30am to 2pm to tour the campus, see Decatur Heritage in action, and talk with an administrator. No appointment is necessary.
We look forward to meeting many prospective parents and students as the 2017-2018 enrollment process begins!
Experience THE Difference
HERITAGE PREVIEWA First Hand Look at the Heritage Difference
Do you realize that YOU, as a part of the Decatur Heritage family, are the BEST source of advertising to promote Decatur Heritage? A wealth of validity and credibility is conveyed as you relate your experience and invite your family, friends, fellow church members, and business associates who are considering school options for the upcoming school year.
An early introduction to see “Decatur Heritage in action” will help them as they discern their school options. Visiting the school and scheduling a shadow day for their student allows parents to see what is unique about the school and prospective students can experience a Decatur Heritage school day. Once the parents have previewed the school and the student has shadowed for a day, the enrollment process may begin.
Please invite your family and friends who might consider or who are considering enrolling their children in Decatur Heritage to drop by anytime Monday through Friday 8:30am to 2pm to tour the campus, see Decatur Heritage in action, and talk with an administrator. No appointment is necessary.
We look forward to meeting many prospective parents and students as the 2017-2018 enrollment process begins!
Experience THE Difference
HERITAGE PREVIEWA First Hand Look at the Heritage Difference
Do you realize that YOU, as a part of the Decatur Heritage family, are the BEST source of advertising to promote Decatur Heritage? A wealth of validity and credibility is conveyed as you relate your experience and invite your family, friends, fellow church members, and business associates who are considering school options for the upcoming school year.
An early introduction to see “Decatur Heritage in action” will help them as they discern their school options. Visiting the school and scheduling a shadow day for their student allows parents to see what is unique about the school and prospective students can experience a Decatur Heritage school day. Once the parents have previewed the school and the student has shadowed for a day, the enrollment process may begin.
Please invite your family and friends who might consider or who are considering enrolling their children in Decatur Heritage to drop by anytime Monday through Friday 8:30am to 2pm to tour the campus, see Decatur Heritage in action, and talk with an administrator. No appointment is necessary.
We look forward to meeting many prospective parents and students as the 2017-2018 enrollment process begins!
Experience THE Difference
HERITAGE PREVIEWA First Hand Look at the Heritage Difference
Do you realize that YOU, as a part of the Decatur Heritage family, are the BEST source of advertising to promote Decatur Heritage? A wealth of validity and credibility is conveyed as you relate your experience and invite your family, friends, fellow church members, and business associates who are considering school options for the upcoming school year.
An early introduction to see “Decatur Heritage in action” will help them as they discern their school options. Visiting the school and scheduling a shadow day for their student allows parents to see what is unique about the school and prospective students can experience a Decatur Heritage school day. Once the parents have previewed the school and the student has shadowed for a day, the enrollment process may begin.
Please invite your family and friends who might consider or who are considering enrolling their children in Decatur Heritage to drop by anytime Monday through Friday 8:30am to 2pm to tour the campus, see Decatur Heritage in action, and talk with an administrator. No appointment is necessary.
We look forward to meeting many prospective parents and students as the 2017-2018 enrollment process begins!
Experience THE Difference
HERITAGE PREVIEWA First Hand Look at the Heritage Difference
Do you realize that YOU, as a part of the Decatur Heritage family, are the BEST source of advertising to promote Decatur Heritage? A wealth of validity and credibility is conveyed as you relate your experience and invite your family, friends, fellow church members, and business associates who are considering school options for the upcoming school year.
An early introduction to see “Decatur Heritage in action” will help them as they discern their school options. Visiting the school and scheduling a shadow day for their student allows parents to see what is unique about the school and prospective students can experience a Decatur Heritage school day. Once the parents have previewed the school and the student has shadowed for a day, the enrollment process may begin.
Please invite your family and friends who might consider or who are considering enrolling their children in Decatur Heritage to drop by anytime Monday through Friday 8:30am to 2pm to tour the campus, see Decatur Heritage in action, and talk with an administrator. No appointment is necessary.
We look forward to meeting many prospective parents and students as the 2017-2018 enrollment process begins!
