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Pathfinder 2010

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Spring 2010 Pathfinder
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Education certainly involves the mind, but it also in- volves the heart, because students bring the condition of their heart to school every day. is has profound influence on the educational process. Teachers who are best prepared to minister to the hearts of students are teachers who, by God’s help, are daily walking through the heart transformation process themselves. At ICS, we want our students to grow into godly, mature, productive individuals. However, this growth does not happen simply through academic instruc- tion, external constraint, rules or regulations. External behavior is easy to manipulate and easy to fake, at least for awhile. But real transformation requires a much more fundamental change at the level of the heart, the root of the problem. If I tied a bushel of beautiful red apples to an unfruitful tree, from a distance it might look like a healthy, productive tree. But the truth would soon be revealed, because the undeveloped or diseased tree would still be unfruitful. Jesus explained this in the simplest of terms. “A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit” (Matthew 7:18). e fruit does not change the nature of the tree; the nature of the tree determines the fruit. e root of the problem is that we all enter this world with our hearts in desperate need of rescue from the nature of sin. Jesus provides the means for that rescue and changes us at the very root of our na- ture. is is why Christian education is so important. It teaches not only to a student’s intellect, but also to his heart, the pathway to lasting change. l How Do People Change? SPRING 2010 Proverbs 3:5-6 INSIDE THIS ISSUE: PAGE 2 Joyful Noise Student Care PAGE 3 Summer Enrichment PAGE 4 Construction Math Competition PAGE 5 Partnership Breakfast PAGE 6 COW in Classroom Teacher Highlight PAGE 7 20 Devoted Years by Stephen Danish Administrator Sometimes I think about how students will change, what kind of people they will become and what kind of influence they will have. It is powerful to realize that within God’s will, a single student can change a family, a community, a nation or even the world. I constantly tell our students that the person they will become is already being shaped within their heart. As Proverbs 4:23 says, “Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life.” Lasting change always travels through the path- way of the heart. e Bible teaches that real transfor- mation includes three things: knowledge of the truth, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the response of the heart. If any one of these is missing, enduring change does not occur. EXPLORING THE TRUTH WITH OUR HEAD, HEART, AND HANDS A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Matthew 7:18
Transcript
Page 1: Pathfinder 2010

Education certainly involves the mind, but it also in-volves the heart, because students bring the condition of their heart to school every day. This has profound influence on the educational process. Teachers who are best prepared to minister to the hearts of students are teachers who, by God’s help, are daily walking through the heart transformation process themselves.

At ICS, we want our students to grow into godly, mature, productive individuals. However, this growth does not happen simply through academic instruc-tion, external constraint, rules or regulations. External behavior is easy to manipulate and easy to fake, at least for awhile. But real transformation requires a much more fundamental change at the level of the heart, the root of the problem.

If I tied a bushel of beautiful red apples to an unfruitful tree, from a distance it might look like a healthy, productive tree. But the truth would soon be revealed, because the undeveloped or diseased tree would still be unfruitful. Jesus explained this in the simplest of terms. “A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit” (Matthew 7:18). The fruit does not change the nature of the tree; the nature of the tree determines the fruit.

The root of the problem is that we all enter this world with our hearts in desperate need of rescue from the nature of sin. Jesus provides the means for that rescue and changes us at the very root of our na-ture. This is why Christian education is so important. It teaches not only to a student’s intellect, but also to his heart, the pathway to lasting change. l

How Do People Change?

SP

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01

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P r o v e r b s 3 : 5 - 6

INSIDE THIS ISSUE:

PAGE 2Joy fu l Noi s e

Student Care

PAGE 3Summer Enrichment

PAGE 4Construc t ion

Math Compet i t ion

PAGE 5Partnership Breakfast

PAGE 6COW in Clas s room

Teacher Highl ight

PAGE 720 Devoted Year s

by Stephen Danish Administrator

Sometimes I think about how students will change, what kind of people they will become and what kind of influence they will have. It is powerful to realize that within God’s will, a single student can change a family, a community, a nation or even the world. I constantly tell our students that the person they will become is already being shaped within their heart. As Proverbs 4:23 says, “Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life.”

Lasting change always travels through the path-way of the heart. The Bible teaches that real transfor-mation includes three things: knowledge of the truth, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the response of the heart. If any one of these is missing, enduring change does not occur.

E X P L O R I N G T H E T R U T H W I T H O U R H E A D , H E A R T , A N D H A N D S

A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Matthew 7:18

Page 2: Pathfinder 2010

Making a Joyful

NoisePsalm 100:1

Joyful

Mrs. Karen Brinson has taught music at Immanuel Christian School for the past three years. Both of her children also attend ICS. With an enthusiastic smile she says, “I am thrilled to be part of a wonderful school that shares the love of Christ!”

Mrs. Brinson recalls wanting to be a teacher since the age of nine. In her teen years, she discovered a passion for music and God led her to combine the two. She earned a B.A. degree in Music Education and has enjoyed teaching in both public and Christian schools.

Believing music is a gift from God, Mrs. Brinson loves all kinds of music and inspires her students to explore their musical interests. By directing and producing children’s musicals, she encourages participants to collaborate and use their gifts to share music that glorifies God.

In addition to teaching, Mrs. Brinson plays the guitar and sings with the Praise Band at Immanuel Bible Church. Her hobbies include reading, watching movies and spending time with her husband and kids. l

Students in Kindergarten through eighth grade par-ticipating in the Grandparents Day Christmas program.

“When your children come to the clinic with a cut, bump, fever, asthma attack or upset stomach, it is my pleasure to offer some TLC along with medicine or a band-aid.” For questions concerning student health issues, Mrs. Houttekier can be reached at [email protected].

Mrs. Cindy Houttekier has served as the School Nurse at Immanuel Christian School for the last two years. Her past experience includes caring for critically ill patients at the Washington Hospital Center Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

Mrs. Houttekier notes that she and her husband appreciate having their three children attend a school where the teachers care as much about helping to de-velop biblical character in the students as they do about academics. This emphasis shows in the interactions between the sick students and their concerned friends at the ICS clinic. “Kids are showing Christ’s love to each other. I feel blessed each day to see care and compassion among the students and staff here.” l

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Page 3: Pathfinder 2010

by Melissa Bender‘08 -‘10 Enrichment Resource Coordinator

We had a great start to Summer Enrich-ment in 2009! Over fifty students were able to enjoy the unique gifts and talents of our teachers as they prepared creative lessons and activities separate from the school year curriculum. During each week, one could find students painting landscape pictures, building castles out of sugar cubes, solving mysteries, creat-ing and performing their own play, mak-ing puppets for a puppet show, drawing with charcoal, or having a tea party. Each class encompassed a range of grade levels so that students across grades were able to get to know each other.

Create…Perform…Discover…with ICS Summer Enr ichment

We are looking forward to another creative Summer Enrichment for 2010, and classes will be held during the weeks of July 12, 19, and 26. Brochures went home with the students but they can also be found on the school website at www.icsva.org, located under the School Life tab, and listed with the Resource Documents. The teachers are preparing a variety of imaginative, fun, and developmental activities for the students to enjoy. We hope that you are able to make ICS Summer Enrichment part of your summer plans! l

My favorite part of Summer Enrichment

was when I drew a cardinal because it was

amazing how I drew it by myself.- Emily Serra

I liked making the clay dog

because I like doing things

with my hands.- Marinda Szabo

I liked building the sugar cube castle because it would get tipsy and seem like

it would fall, but it never did.

- Hannah Adams

2010 ICS Summer Enrichment Schedule July 12 - 16, 2010 9:00 am - 11:30 am 0 Lots of Art Projects to Take Home (Pottery, etc.), Grades 1 - 9 0 Cheer Camp, Grades 5 - 812:30 pm - 3:00 pm0 Lots of Art Projects to Take Home (Painted Chairs, etc.), Grades 1 - 9 0 Cheer Camp, Grades 5 - 8

July 19 - 23, 2010 9:00 am - 11:30 am 0 Lots of Art Projects to Take Home (Batik T-shirts, etc.), Grades 1 - 9 0American Girl Dolls, Grades 1 - 4 0 Cheer Camp, Grades 5 - 8 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm0 Lots of Art Projects to Take Home (Silk Screen T-shirts, etc.), Grades 1 - 9 0Animal Survival, Grades 3 - 5 0 Cheer Camp, Grades 5 - 8

July 26 - 30, 2010 9:00 am - 11:30 am 0Lots of Art Projects to Take Home (Tie-Dye T-shirts, etc.), Grades 1 - 9 0 Smooshy, Squishy Lentils. Grades K - 3 0Writer’s Workshop, Grades 4 - 8 0 Wacky Science Labs, Grades 5 - 9 12:30 pm - 3:00 pm0 Lots of Art Projects to Take Home (3-D Letters, etc.), Grades 1 - 9 0Electricity and Magnetism, Grades 5 - 8 0Discover your Dramatic Flare, Grades 4 - 8 0 What’s the Buzz about Honey Bees?, Grades 3 - 9

See additional ICS Summer Enrichment information at www.icsva.org, under the School Life tab, listed with the Resource Documents.

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Page 4: Pathfinder 2010

by Nancy FerrellMiddle School Math Teacher

On Saturday, November 14, 2009, eight Immanuel students participated in the Intermediate Math Open, a yearly competition run by the Math Club at Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology. Thirty-five area middle schools participated in the team and individual events of this challenging competition. The team component provided a great opportunity for interaction with other participants, as no two students from the same school are teamed together. Representing ICS were 8th-graders David Chae, Cara Cunningham, Naomi Daniel, and Miles Oakley, and 7th-graders Ne-way Araya, Jasper Choi, Robbie D’Amato, and Robbie McLallen.

At the end of the day, several ICS students received special recognition. Team placements were: Jasper Choi, 3rd place, Naomi Daniel, 2nd place and Miles Oakely, 1st place. In the individual competition for Algebra, David Chae was awarded 1st place. This was David’s 3rd year participating and Mrs. Farrell noted that his award was “a testament to his perseverance and his de-sire to make the most of the opportunities placed before him.” Math teachers Mrs. Pate and Mrs. Ferrell give a big “high-five” to each ICS student who competed! l

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by Chad SchneiderAssistant Administrator

The first phase of construc-tion at Immanuel Bible Church, a renovation and second story addition to the former 200 Wing, is now completed. Im-manuel Christian School

received several new/renovated classrooms. Four primary classrooms, two of which were enlarged, are relocated on the ground floor.

The new second floor con-tains a spacious computer studio, a modern middle school science classroom and lab, two larger eighth grade classrooms, the middle school office, and the student ministry office

of IBC. Now all ICS classrooms are situ-ated on one side of the building, facilitating movement and increasing security. Updates

to the Breezeway created a new school reception office as well. The next phase of renovation involves the gymnasium, a second story addition to the former 100 Wing, and adds an atrium/multipurpose room across

from the worship center. ICS is grateful for these wonderful facilities as we teach the next generation to explore the truth with the head,

heart and hands. l

ConstruCtion on First PhaseComPleted

These include some of the photos (August ‘09 through February ‘10) located on the onelifejourney.net website.

M A T H COMPETITIONAWARDS ADD·UP!

Team members: Front Row (L-R): David Chae, Naomi Daniel, and Robbie McLallen. Back Row, (L-R): Neway Araya, Miles Oakley and Robbie D’Amato. Not Pictured: Cara Cunningham and Jasper Choi.

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Page 5: Pathfinder 2010

Why is the Partnership Breakfast important? At Imman-uel Christian School, income from tuition does not cover the full cost of education. The Partnership Fund bridges the income/expense gap. While donations are welcome anytime, most gifts to the Partnership Fund are pledged at the annual Partnership Breakfast.

How much is raised? In the past two years this event has raised over $521,000 in gifts and pledges for the oper-ating budget of Immanuel Christian School.

What is the money used for? The funds from the Partnership Builders Breakfast are for unrestricted, operating expenses such as student programs, educational materials, extra-curricular activities and salaries. These funds benefit every ICS family because they keep tuition costs down. The fact is, our annual cost per pupil is ap-proximately $9,059, and our Partners help to make up the difference between a student’s tuition and the actual costs.

What can attendees expect at the Breakfast? This free, one-hour event is a fast moving, informational and inspirational program. When you arrive, student greeters will direct you to the coffee and pastry bar. Information tables hosted by current and former students will update

you on the various service opportunities. At 8:30 a.m., guests will enjoy a full breakfast featuring fruit, omelets, sausage, bacon, and coffee. The program begins with a performance from our 2A students, followed by testimo-nials from students and parents. You’ll also hear from ICS Administrator Steve Danish and view a new video that follows our students as they serve throughout the community. Near the end of the program, you will be asked to consider making a gift to support ICS, but no one will pressure you. Various options will be presented, however, and no gift is too small.

Who is invited to the Breakfast? The simple answer is everyone! We invite current and former parents, grand-parents, alumni, friends, relatives, business associates, community leaders - - anyone who has a heart for Chris-tian education. We have volunteers who serve as Table Captains who personally invite their families, co-workers and neighbors to this event. Of course, if you’re reading this, then CONSIDER YOURSELF INVITED! To reserve your spot, simply email Laura Tweed at [email protected] or call 703-941-1220. l

Above: Middle School Student Ad-visory Council representatives serve as greeters.

SAVE w DATE

APRIL 30, 2010

ICS-Planting Seeds of Service

Immanuel Christian School

PARTNERSHIP BREAKFAST

Coffee & Visiting 8:OO–8:3O a.m.

Breakfast 8:3O–9:3O a.m.

Information 7O3.941.122O

The Partnership Breakfast…a time to reconnect, enjoy a delicious breakfast and hear inspirational stories. -Laura TweedDirector of Development

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Page 6: Pathfinder 2010

by Donna BradleyInstructional Technology Coordinator

A generous matching gift donation has provided a “COW” for ICS students. COW is our affection-ate name for “Computers on Wheels”, a set of laptops charged and stored on a mobile cart that teachers can reserve for use in their classrooms. The twenty-five identical HP laptops have wireless access for Internet and network usage and allow students the flexibility of using a personal laptop for instructional projects.

The COW offers a hands-on technology experience when the stationary computer lab is in high demand, or when it is more appropri-ate to the curriculum for students to work in the classroom. Students have already used the laptops to complete research projects, perform science interactions, and prepare for presentations. This shared resource is only the first of the three COWs we would like to have operating in the ICS classrooms. l

Mrs. Eleane Norat McCoy has been in the teaching field for thirty years, with experi-ence spanning preschool to college. Two of her three children attended Immanuel Christian School and she has been part of the faculty since 1995. Over the years, she has taught all the Primary grades at ICS, which she counts as a blessing in her role as Primary Team Leader.

Mrs. McCoy loves teaching, especially what she calls the “ah-ha” moments. “There is something magical in watching a student break through boundaries of fear and doubt as they reach that moment of understand-ing. My job is to help create an environment where that type of learning will occur and then to celebrate those moments together!”

As Team Leader, she particularly enjoys helping students work out issues by looking in God’s Word with them to see what He has to say. She notes, “This can only happen at a Christian School where God is honored and grace is given.” l

Mrs. McCoy encourages the Kindergarteners as they identify words.

Eighth grade students were excited to be the first class to use the new laptops.

Thank you for the opportunity this morning to view the COW playing an integral part in the classroom environ-ment. I’m pleased to see the technology adding tangible val-ue to the educational dynamic through wise application. The geography lesson demonstrated how the COW and smart board are a perfect compliment and together provided an exciting & effective interaction for the students and teacher.-Kurt OvermanICS Parent

A COW inthe Classroom?

Above: A photo of the COW in the classroom.

A Teacher’sHeart

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Page 7: Pathfinder 2010

Pathfinderis a publication

of

Questions or Comments? Please e-mail:

[email protected]

Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability

Mid-Atlantic Christian Schools Association

Association of Christian Schools

International

ACCREDITED

Southern Association of Colleges

and Schools

ACCREDITED

Virginia Council for Private Education

MEMBER

ICS is a 501(c)3 organization. All donations are tax-deduc-tible to the fullest extent allowed by law. To support ICS with monetary gifts send to Immanuel Christian School, 6915 Braddock Road, Spring-field, VA 22151. You can also support ICS through CFC #74453.

Editor: Mandy Croushore

Photography: Steve Danish, Neal

Dillard, and Georgi Barker

Graphic Design: Lisa Gleeson

Illustrations: iStockphoto

by Dwight DavisonSchool Board Chairman

Christian school can survive with a skilled Christian administrator, but to thrive during

both tough times and good, a school needs a godly man who is fully committed first to his Lord, then to his family, then his Lord’s work.

Twenty years ago, Immanuel Christian School found just that man in Steve Danish. One word resonates in his life and work: de-votion. g His devotion to Christ is evident in his steadfast com-mitment to spiritual disciplines. g His devotion to the Word of God shows in his passion for the Bonus Verse. g His devotion to students is apparent in his regu-lar interaction with them in the classroom, in the lunch room or on field trips. g His devotion to his faculty and staff is proven by his strong advocacy for their welfare at every board meeting. g

His devotion to the Great Commis-sion is exemplified through our in-ternational schools partnership. gHis devotion to Christian Edu-cation is obvious in his strategic vision and day-to-day excellence. Steve Danish is a leader in every as-pect vital to a healthy Christian school, and we have been richly blessed by his devotion to ICS. l

A We invite you to attend an assembly to honor Steve’s twenty years of faithful leadership at Immanuel Christian School on Friday, May 21 from 8:45 am – 9:30 am in the Worship Center. You’ll have the opportunity to see and hear stories from students, parents and teach-ers about the impact that Mr. Danish has made in the lives of so many. An open house recep-tion hosted by the School Board will follow.

Additionally, all current and former par-ents, students and teachers are invited to participate by sending their notes of ap-preciation to Janet Butterfield, [email protected] or 6915 Braddock Road, Spring-field, VA 22151. We plan to present this collection to Steve at the assembly. Notes, cards or emails are due by Friday, April 30.

Left: The Danish family when they arrived at ICS in 1990: Sharon and Steve with children Rachel and Jordan.

Right: Mr. Danish shows Kindergarten students Noah’s Ark that he carved.

by Dwight DavisonSchool Board Chairman

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Page 8: Pathfinder 2010

A Ministry of Immanuel Bible Church6911 Braddock Road Springfield, VA 22151www.icsva.org

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID MERRIFIELD, VA PERMIT NO 2157

PathfinderP r o v e r b s 3 : 5 - 6

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