Class of 2025 Standouts Commit To Attend Service Academics

Class of 2025 Standouts Commit

To Attend Service Academics

By Samantha DePriest

It’s not everyday when Trinity Christian School has not one, but two graduates who go on to attend a military academy after graduating high school. It is the ultimate calling on ones life to defend our freedom that generations have fought for years before. Senior Robert Coker will be attending the Air Force Academy and Senior Ryan Melton will be attending the United States Merchant Marine Academy this coming Fall. The admissions process to any of the five U.S. service academies is both an extensive and competitive process. They require nominations to the academies by Congressional Representatives and Senators. “Each of the five service academies are ranked annually by U.S. News & World Report and Forbes as some of the most selective colleges and universities in the country. The acceptance rate is between 8-17% for each of the schools.”

The five U.S. service academies are:

• United States Military Academy (USMA) in West Point, NY, founded in 1802.

• United States Naval Academy (USNA) in Annapolis, Maryland, founded in 1845.

• United States Coast Guard Academy (USCGA) in New London, Connecticut, founded in 1876.

• United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) in Kings Point, NY, founded in 1943.

• United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) in Colorado Springs, Colorado, founded in 1954.

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RJ Coker

What inspired you to pursue a military service academy education and how did you first learn about the opportunity? As my dad went to West Point and still serves in the Army, I have always been around the military. Even as a little kid, I have always wanted to attend a service academy. Ultimately, I am choosing to attend an academy because it provides a rigorous education and competitive environment that I truly can’t get anywhere else.

What school are you going to this fall and what is your major? Air Force Academy, undecided major (If I had to choose, either Management or Engineering).

What are your long-term career goals and how does attending this particular military service academy align with those goals? I have three main goals in life: To honor God, honor my family, and impact others by being the very best at what I do. I honestly couldn’t care much less about what I end up doing as long as I achieve these three goals. I know that God will honor the goals and dreams that I do end up making later in life given that I align my will with His. The Air Force Academy has a large Christian presence, which will allow me to grow in my faith, and also a very competitive environment, which will challenge me to create new and higher standards in which to hold myself. Ultimately, attending USAFA aligns very well with these three goals, so I am very grateful and excited for this opportunity.

The academy environment emphasizes teamwork and collaboration. Can you please tell us about a time at TCS when you worked on a team to achieve a goal? What was your role and how did you contribute to your team's success? One of the biggest/favorite opportunities here at Trinity was the honor of serving as a captain on the football team. Serving in this capacity allowed me to further develop my leadership skills and high view of camaraderie. Our ultimate goal as a team this year was to win the state championship, but we fell short. However, as bad as our season may have appeared from the outside, I wouldn’t have wanted to have a different outcome. The lessons and grit that I learned personally and learned as a team are far more valuable than holding up a championship trophy. I know the energy that our team leaders brought and the determination our team had to remain competitive will allow me to succeed in even greater capacities later in my life.

Service academies are academically rigorous. How has TCS prepared you academically for this? Simply put, Trinity’s offering of a wide variety of AP classes has provided me with preparation for such a rigorous academic road ahead. Some of the AP classes I have taken are classes or similar to classes that I will take at an academy, even in my sophomore and junior years. Additionally, the spirit of learning that my teachers have has also inspired me to push myself academically and also prepare me for any level of education that I may have wanted to pursue.

Additional comments you would like to share with our readers. “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life. And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”  God has blessed each of us with talents and opportunities, and it is our duty to make much of Him with these things. Use the talents and abilities He has given you to make more and better Christ followers who love God and love people. 

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Ryan Melton

What inspired you to pursue a military service academy education and how did you first learn about the opportunity? The thing that inspired me to seek a military service education is because of my grandfather's service in the Navy. Ever since I was little I’ve wanted to be in the Navy just like him. As I got older, my mom always told me that a service academy was a great way to become an officer in the military. 

What school are you going to this fall and what is your major? I am going to the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and plan on majoring in marine transportation.

Congressional Nomination ceremony with Congressman David Scott

What are your long-term career goals and how does attending this particular military service academy align with those goals? My long term goals are to become a surface warfare officer in the Navy. By attending the USMMA I can not only get a major that will benefit my career, but also learn hands-on with the tasks I will be doing as a surface warfare officer. The USMMA is different from other service academies in the sense that they offer a sea year. In that sea year I will have the opportunity to sail on many different ships and learn how to run them from the bridge or if I go engineering, the engine room. This is extremely beneficial to my career path because once I get into the fleet of the Navy, I will already know and understand how to sail a ship. 

The academy environment emphasizes teamwork and collaboration. Can you please tell us about a time at TCS when you worked on a team to achieve a goal? What was your role and how did you contribute to your team's success? A time at Trinity where I have learned teamwork and collaboration was in Beta Club. Being the president of Beta Club I have learned many leadership skills such as teamwork. During the induction this year, my team and I had to work to get everything in place and make sure there was a smooth ceremony. We split jobs across our board such as making the script, certificates, etc. Beta Club has greatly helped me learn teamwork and collaboration on an executive team. 

Service academies are academically rigorous. How has TCS prepared you academically for this? TCS has helped to prepare me to meet the academic challenges of a service academy through the rigorous AP courses that are offered. The variety of AP classes that TCS offers allowed me to begin demonstrating my ability to handle college-level classes as early as my freshman year in high school. The teaching and coaching staff at TCS has always been supportive of my goals beyond high school by encouraging me to continuously challenge myself. I am grateful for the foundation TCS provided for me in high school, it will prepare me for the challenges that lie ahead at the USMMA.

TCS Students Shine in Annual Spring Film Race

TCS Students Shine in Annual Spring Film Race

By Samantha DePriest

The film program at TCS has seen incredible growth and development over the years, thanks to the dedication of staff and the generosity of Annual Fund donors. Originally started by Mr. Oscar Camejo and Mr. John Steinklauber, the film class has evolved with Mr. Chris Litton’s vision which reimagined the course to make it even more dynamic. What began as a class of just 7 students learning about the history of film and cinematography, has now expanded into a growing group. The class produces the weekly Roar, a production that airs before high school chapel each Wednesday providing students with hands-on experience in film production.

This school year, the film class began with 15 students reflecting a growing interest and talent in the field. Through generous donations to the TCS Annual Fund, the classroom has now been outfitted with state-of-the-art equipment helping to elevate the production quality to new levels.

A major highlight for the students this year was an invitation to participate in the prestigious Annual Spring Film Race hosted by the University of West Georgia's (UWG) Film and Communications Department. Traditionally a collegiate competition, this year marked the first time that high school students were allowed to participate. The competition presented a unique challenge where students were given a prompt on Monday and had one week to create a short film based on the following constraints.

1) Narrative element: something breaks and needs to be fixed

2) Selection of dialogue

3) Hybrid genre: a buddy comedy with a sci-fi twist.

The TCS film class embraced the challenge wholeheartedly. From February 24th to March 3rd, our students worked tirelessly through pre-production, filming, and editing. The end result was their first-ever short film titled the InstallmenT, a project entirely written, directed, produced, and edited by our students. The film showcases incredible talent. Several of the students and staff shared about their experience of being a part of it the first short film production.

• Kasara Haynes, Director, shared, “Directing this film was an incredible experience! I felt that the Lord’s presence was with us throughout the entire process. The opportunity to collaborate with such talented individuals and create something that brings joy to others is a gift and I truly believe it was through HIS guidance that we were able to bring this vision to life. It was a reminder of how creativity and faith can come together in beautiful ways.”

• Editor Brett Rogers shared, ”Yes! I absolutely love the opportunity to produce and edit this film. I was surrounded not only by wonderful staff, but also by peers that push me to be the best version of myself. Being surrounded by people who share those same interests as me, even if I was in my own little editing corner the whole time, made the whole process so much more enjoyable.”

• Eli Heath, Writer, shared, “Working on The InstallmenT was such an awesome experience! It was a great way to practice script writing and filming, on an actual set. The cast and crew were remarkable and I was so blessed to be a part of this project!"

• Lead Actress Harper Gonzalez shared, “Acting is one of my greatest passions, and I feel incredibly blessed to have the support to pursue it. This experience has been one of my favorite times in front of the camera. Doing what you love and sharing it with friends is truly life-changing. I was so fortunate to work under such amazing directors and alongside talented peers who helped bring this incredible film to life. All glory to the Lord!”

• Lead Actor John Steinklauber shared, “Throughout my years, I have had the opportunity to be a part of a few different film productions, I was completely impressed at how organized and well planned our students were for their short film. Considering that they only had a week to write, cast, plan, produce, film, and edit this project I was beyond amazed... I can’t say it enough... they were all so extremely professional.”

The Annual Spring Film Race not only showcased the students' technical skills but also highlighted their ability to collaborate creatively under a tight deadline. Mr. Deone Kay, Professor and Head of Film and Video Productions for the School of Communication, Film, and Media at UWG, was complimentary of our students. Our TCS team was presented with the Trailblazer Award on Thursday, March 13th at the UWG Spring Film Race.

The program’s participation in the competition at UWG is a testament to the growing recognition of TCS’s film students' capabilities. Mr. Litton shared, “I am immensely proud of these students for their incredible work on this short film. TCS Film is full of passionate creatives, who are forging their legacy here at Trinity by being the trailblazers of the program. This opportunity to showcase the tremendous talent here at TCS through this short film has been a joy to watch and I am so excited to see what the Lord has in store next for TCS Film.” 

With this successful debut in the Annual Spring Film Race, the TCS film program continues to grow and inspire the next generation of filmmakers. For those interested in furthering their film and media education, TCS offers a Film and Broadcast Production class that fills up quickly, with a cap of 17 students per class. This elective course is a great opportunity for aspiring filmmakers. Additionally, starting in the fall of 2025, TCS will offer Film Fellowship, an after-school club for students in grades 9-12, providing them with even more opportunities to explore and create films. Students may reach out directly to Chris.Litton@tcslions.org with questions.

GO WEEK 2025: Ecuador

GO Week 2025: Ecuador

By Samantha DePriest

TCS GO Week coverage continues as a group of eager high school students traveled to South America to the captial city of Quito, Ecuador to serve in a local community. The mission trip provided a unique opportunity to not only help others over the course of many days but to learn and grow through a cross cultural experience, learning how to communicate in a different language, fostering meaningful relationships, and deepening their Faith. Assistant Director of Student Development and Honor Spanish III teacher Mr. Reed Shackelford and ninth grade Bible teacher and head coach of Track & Field Mr. Sam Howard led our missions team in Ecuador. TCS sophomore Sophia Selleck was just one of the high school students greatly impacted and shares how God grew her Faith while serving in Ecuador.

The team hit the ground running as soon as they arrived. After sharing a meal and evening devotion, the team got a good nights rest and headed out the next morning to serve with Joshua Expeditions partners for a full three days. On the fifth day, the team was able to visit the Middle of the World Monument and participate in cultural experiences while visiting the historic city of Quito. The team also visited Teleferico to enjoy the magnificent view from 12,000 feet above sea level of Quito and the surrounding mountains.

Mr. Sam Howard shares, “As a chaperone on a mission trip you can never truly know what to expect. You begin to question, do we have enough students? Do we have the right students? Are their hearts eager and in a posture to serve? I can confidently look back on the trip to Ecuador and say, these are things I should have never worried about. From day one our group was not just willing, but dedicated to making a difference during GO Week. At every opportunity, whether that be playing games and leading a VBS with children all afternoon or planting gardens at homes that were just trying to put food on the table our students sought to serve. Looking back, this wasn’t just an opportunity for them, but it was an opportunity for me to see how God is active in our student body to equip and encourage for Kingdom impact.”

Sophia Selleck pictured right.

Sophia Selleck shares, “My trip to Ecuador was really a life changing experience! Our trip was filled with the Word the entire time. I knew each of my leaders wanted to make Jesus’ mission the center of our trip. On our first day of work, we met with our missions team, Pan de Vida, and held a VBS for Ecuadorian kids in the area.

At first, I didn’t know how to communicate with them at all. I knew a few Spanish phrases, but I was far from fluent and couldn’t understand them very well. In my discouragement, I remembered that before we had gotten there, I read a verse on the plane that had spoken to me deeply. In Jeremiah 1:9-10, God calls Jeremiah to ministry for the first time. It says, “Then the LORD put out his hand and touched my mouth. And the LORD said to me, ‘Behold, I have put my words in your mouth. See, I have set you this day over nations and over kingdoms, to pluck up and to break down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.” I knew from this verse that whatever it was I needed to do on this mission trip, God would give me the words to say and provide me with the tools I needed to fulfill his will, even if I didn’t speak the language these people did.

Later during the VBS, we sat down in the grass and did a craft. I was placed with a group of kids and decided to introduce myself with my name. They started asking me questions like “how old are you?” and I was able to answer. Of course there were phrases I didn’t know yet, but I started having real conversations with these kids. The little jokes they would make, the mentioning of their favorite crayon colors, and even when they tried to say their own names with an American accent, it all made sense to me and I could laugh and play with them. It was incredible what was happening and I was becoming so close with kids that spoke a different language than me. 

The next couple work days of our trip were gardening for Ecuadorian families who didn’t have the finances or the strength to build their own gardens. I truly fell in love with the culture and the heart that these people had. Seeing people who were not blessed with much but still so full of the spirit was encouraging to me. I enjoyed getting to know the students I went with on the trip as well as becoming closer with the school friends I already had. All of the judgement that we might’ve shown each other at school vanished as we bonded over holding cute puppies, picking beautiful flowers, and caring for kids. Ever since I left, I’ve wanted to go back and serve just like I did. It was the greatest blessing to go out into the world and spread the message of Jesus and what he has done for me. “

TRINITY MIKE FITZPATRICK FORD STUDENT

“ATHLETE OF THE WEEK” AWARDS

By Samantha DePriest

Trinity Christian School is honored to have Mike Fitzpatrick of Fitzpatrick Ford in Newnan recognize several of our Winter student athletes with the “Athlete of the Week” Award. We join Mr. Fitzpatrick in saying that we are wholeheartedly proud of these athletes who demonstrate qualities of leadership, character, and determination in their sport and on their teams. Below are our most recent recipients of the Fitzpatrick “Athlete of the Week Award” for the month of February. Way to go Lions!!

Jackson Upshaw

Soccer

2/3/25

Jackson has been a great leader running our off-season workouts for our 2025 team. We look forward to seeing that leadership continue throughout the season.

Hannah Wilson

Lacrosse

2/10/25

Hannah Wilson is entering her senior season embracing the leadership role. She’s been helping teammates new to the sport acquire skills, has organized team bonding activities, and has been motivating and encouraging. 

Camila Ramos

Tennis

2/24/25

Camila plays singles for the TCS Varsity team, and after training diligently and excelling in off-season match play, she won her first Varsity match vs. Strong Rock 6-0, 6-0.

Building the Future: How STEAM Day Inspires Young Minds

Building the Future: How STEAM Day

Inspires Young Minds

By Samantha DePriest

Each year our Upper Elementary classrooms transform into little laboratories for an entire school day dedicated solely to STEAM. Sponsored by the generous donations to our TCS Annual Fund, our Upper Elementary STEAM teacher in partnership with our fourth and fifth grade teachers and room parents host a day our students look forward to each Spring.

STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. This combination serves as an integrated approach to education by inspiring and encouraging students to explore and connect these various disciplines in creative, hands on ways. Ultimately developing skills in those particular subjects nurtures well rounded and adaptable students who will be prepared to tackle challenges of the future. This directly aligns with our mission statement at TCS to “prepare today’s student to impact tomorrow's world.”

Mrs. Anna Estabrooks serves as the STEAM teacher for Upper Elementary and shared, “The week leading up to STEAM day our students have been learning about the planets and our solar system through interactive hands-on activies. The goal of STEAM day is for our students to apply the skills and strategies they have been learning in their classrooms to these various activities. They have been learning how to problem solve and think outside the box.”

An enormous amount of preparation and planning goes into preparing each of the hands on activities for each classroom. Each teacher is equipped with a large array of supplies and a parent volunteer. Students are encouraged to think critically, work together in small groups to solve problems, and make connections between concepts. These skills are valuable in both a classroom setting and in real life scenarios. Several of the classroom activities allow for creativity which helps students innovate and develop new solutions to challenges. Many of the STEAM activities involve teamwork and teach students how to work together, share ideas, and how to communicate. The skills our students are learning are necessary for preparing them to impact the future. And the best part is our students count down the days until STEAM day each year!

The Power of a School Community That Cares

The Power of a School Community that cares

By Samanthe DePriest

TCS Student Junior Greg Brezina had it all going for him. As a varsity football player, he was starting as fullback for his team and excelling academically. He was even selected to be the “tip of the spear” at one of the first varsity football games of the 2024 season. His days were filled with excitement, but little did he know that a sudden medical emergency would test his resilience in ways he never imagined.

Greg Brezina, pictured far left.

Image by Shannon Dallas

It was during a pregame meal before the Sandy Creek High School football game on September 20th, the biggest game of his life, when Greg began experiencing excruciating pain in his stomach. The discomfort quickly turned into severe cramping, and he found himself heading to urgent care when he was supposed to be taking to the football field. Once he got to urgent care, doctors urged him to head to the nearest hospital. His Mom, Patty, rushed him directly to the emergency room at Scottish Rite Children's Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA) for further evaluation.

They immediately admitted him and a scan revealed the severity of his situation. A team of surgeons informed Greg and Patty that surgery was required to save his life. Greg shares, “I remember the doctor explaining that my football season was over and that was very hard to hear.” The medical emergency stemmed from a dangerous swelling in his intestines caused by a condition known as volvulus. Greg’s body was on the verge of shutting down, but thanks to his mother’s insistence on going to CHOA, his life was saved. He shares, “The doctors told us that I was a couple of hours away from a catastrophic shutdown of my organs.”

Greg had been born with gastroschesis, a rare condition where the exterior wall of his stomach was outside his body. He underwent surgery as a newborn to correct it. The surgery he underwent this past Fall was a success, but Greg's recovery was anything but easy. The doctors not only addressed the swelling in his intestines but also discovered and removed a hernia he didn't know he had. They placed an NG tube into his stomach, which proved to be a painful and physically taxing experience. The tube caused constant discomfort, even cutting his throat and making it agonizing to swallow. For 10 long days, Greg was bedridden and unable to eat or drink with the NG tube and the accompanying infections in his throat and nose. The hunger and thirst he felt combined with hallucinations made the experience even more grueling. He remembers begging the nurses every day for them to remove the tube but they coudn’t until his condition improved.

Greg recalls seeing other children in the hospital and learning their stories. One child had brain cancer and had been in the hospital for months. He shared how difficult it was to be in the hospital and found himself battling depression. Though despite the hardships, Greg found a surprising form of solace. One day, he ventured down to the hospital lobby where he found a piano and began playing. This simple act was the catalyst for his recovery. Slowly his intestines began to function again and he could feel his body returning to life.

By the time Greg left the hospital, he had lost a significant amount of weight and was down from 190 pounds to just 168 pounds. His first meal after being discharged was a celebration: Chipotle, and he ate to his heart's content. However, recovery didn’t come without setbacks. While at home watching the TCS Lions play against Whitewater High School on the livestream, Greg began vomiting and back to the hospital he went. The doctors reassured him that it was a result of overeating after fasting for 10 days and gave him resources of how to manage his diet at home.

Throughout his hospital stay, Greg received unwavering support from his friends, teammates, and coaches. The Administrative leadership team from TCS as well as fellow classmates came to help lift his spirits during his stay. Members of the theater team also came to offer their encouragement and prayers. Greg was deeply moved by their presence, especially as the support extended from his football family to his theater family. Greg’s mom Patty Brezina shared, “The nursing staff shared that they have never seen a patient have so many visitors. It reminded us that where you invest yourself in, that’s where your dividends come from. There were moments when Greg’s life was hanging in the balance and I would say to him how proud of him I was for who he chose to invest with and walk through life with. What a beautiful reminder for him that the people in his life wanted him back and were cheering him on every step of the way. TCS is our small group and our home.”

Greg is motivated to return to the football field this Fall and is working to regain his strength, both physically and emotionally. He has returned to his workouts and soon found himself working out every day, doing CrossFit to get back in shape. He shares, “I feel good and believe that I am fully healed and ready for our 2025 season.”

Image by Samantha DePriest

Greg also shares how his involvement in theater that made a life-changing impact. Just days after leaving the hospital, Greg’s mother, TCS Theatre director Mrs. Lizzie Perez and his theater friends encouraged him to return to One Act rehearsals, where he had been cast as Peter in the play The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. This role provided him with a new source of motivation and gave him a meaningful focus during his recovery.

Image by Samantha DePriest

The experience in theater proved to be a turning point. It helped Greg overcome feelings of misery and depression, especially as he had felt so disconnected from the sport he loved. Theater brought him out of his suffering, and the triumphs of his cast mates, including their victory at the Region competition and performance at the State level. He recalls, “It became one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.”

For Greg, theater was more than just a form of entertainment…it was a vital source of joy, hope, and healing. He credits his theater friends for lifting him up during one of the darkest times of his life, and believes that without them, he wouldn’t have been able to recover the way he did. God used theater to fill the gaps in his life and helped him find hope when he thought it was lost.

Now fully recovered, Greg is a symbol of resilience and determination, not only on the football field but also on the stage. His journey of healing is a testament to the power of a Jesus loving community, his own perseverance, and finding strength in the most unexpected places.

GO WEEK: Costa Rica

GO WEEK: Costa Rica

By Samantha DePriest

When a student prays about where God is calling them to go for TCS GO Week, they are desiring to not only make a difference in the lives of others but also for God to work in their own lives. Last month, our Costa Rica GO Week mission team was led by three of our high school teachers Mr. Brian Fourman, Mr. Chris Paschal, and Mrs. Cassie Richardson. The team traveled to the province of Pavas located in San Jose, Costa Rica. Pavas is where many refugees have come to live to escape the difficult living conditions in Guatemala. Our mission team served alongside the Fortaleza Eglesia Church (translated in English “Strong Tower Church”) and a local construction company through a partnership with Joshua Expeditions. During their time there, our students and staff helped build not one, but two homes in just three days.

Mrs. Cassie Richardson shared, “The trip was very eye opening for our students as the families we were helping are living within feet of a landfill. The sights and sounds are what you would expect, yet the hands and feet of Jesus are everywhere. Fortaleza Eglesia church was a simple building located in basically a four car garage without an altar or stained glass, yet the church is open everyday because there isn’t any government assistance there. They are feeding the poor and the hungry joyfully.”

“Mission trips are not just about what you do on the trip that matters, it is the memory that is still with you three weeks later and three months later that you cannot seem to forget.” Mrs. Richardson asked the mission team a few weeks after they returned home, “What are you still thinking about and what is still on your hearts and minds?” Don’t worry if you didn’t have one yet, you will one day. Those are the seeds that God has planted that will encourage you and gives you eyes to see and serve the least of these.”

One student shared, “I remembered how friendly everyone was in a situation where she would feel sad. I now understand the difference of joy versus happiness. The people were still so happy despite their circumstances.”

Mrs. Richardson goes on to share, “God’s provision is real. Our team was able to raise enough money to buy additional bedding and furniture for the families. The team was able to take the family grocery shopping and purchase some other much needed household items before the moving key ceremony and house presentation. It may seem small to us, but was everything to these families.”

While the team was in Costa Rica, they also were able to visit a local coffee plantation and enjoy their first cup of Costa Rican coffee with a breathtaking view. They participated in nightly meaningful devotions in the hotel and a catamaran cruise with snorkeling and banana boat rides that made for some fun memories playing in the sun.

TCS Swim Team Is Making Waves!

TCS Swim Team Is Making Waves!

By Samantha DePriest

As the final whistle blew signaling the end of an incredible season, our TCS swim team coach reflected on the hard work and dedication that carried the team through every practice and meet. With smiles on their faces and a sense of accomplishment in their hearts, these student athletes celebrated not just their personal bests, but their team spirit and growth that defined their journey. Though their season came to a close, the bonds formed and lessons learned will continue to impact each swimmer long after the last lap.

Image by Presley Boone

TCS Swim Coach Mr. Devin James shares, “Our season is over now but our vision was to develop athletes that represent both the school and Christ well, in and out of the pool. We had hoped for a second place finish or higher in the Coweta cup and a second place finish or higher for middle school state. The varsity did finish 2nd in the Coweta County Championship and the middle school team finished 2nd for the state so we were super happy about that.” 

Image by Presley Boone

“Its amazing to see the development of our athletes both in the pool and in their faith. The swimmers have dropped an extraordinary amount of time from the beginning of the season. We really focused on faith and attitude this season and the swimmers have really embraced this and we have really seen a willingness to step into things that they normally wouldn't for the sake of the team. So many of our swimmers had to step into events that they normally dont swim, and their positive attitude toward this shows just as much about their personal development as it does their physical.“

Image by Presley Boone

“The men's team finished 12th overall for 1A-3A state. Frank Edwards, Bryce Ryan, and the 200 free relay team all had finishes in the top 10. Bryce Ryan podiumed for 3rd place in the 500 free, which I believe is TCS's first ever podium at GHSA state. Owen Osborne and Elliott Pabst finished top 20 in all their events as well.” 

2025 GHSA State finishes 

200 Medley team - Bryce Ryan, Owen Osborne, Frank Edwards, and Elliott Pabst - 14th place 

200 Free - Bryce Ryan 4th and Frank Edwards - 8th place

50 Free - Owen Osborne - 15th place

100 Fly - Elliott Pabst - 15th place

500 Free - Bryce Ryan 3rd and Frank Edwards - 5th place

200 Free relay - Bryce Ryan, Frank Edwards, Elliott Pabst, and Owen Osborne - 9th place

Image by Presley Boone

Image by Presley Boone

Image by Presley Boone

TRINITY MIKE FITZPATRICK FORD STUDENT

“ATHLETE OF THE WEEK” AWARDS

By Samantha DePriest

Trinity Christian School is honored to have Mike Fitzpatrick of Fitzpatrick Ford in Newnan recognize several of our student athletes with the “Athlete of the Week” Award. We join Mr. Fitzpatrick in saying that we are wholeheartedly proud of these athletes who demonstrate qualities of leadership, character, and determination in their sport and on their teams. Below are our most recent recipients of the Fitzpatrick “Athlete of the Week Award” for the month of January. Way to go Lions!!

Presley Boone

Swimming

1/6/25

Presley is dedicated, honest, and hardworking. She is a true multi-sport athlete who excels in every sport she chooses. 

Dillon Stiltner

Baseball

1/13/25

Dillon has taken tremendous leaps as a leader off the field and looks to build on a stellar summer season going into his senior year. 

MJ Tarpley

Soccer

1/20/25

MJ is a senior this year. She is showing great leadership and hard work leading up to the season during our conditioning sessions. These attributes will be key factors throughout the upcoming season.

Sam Wood

Track

1/27/25

Sam is a Junior distance runner who is poised to have a breakout season this spring.  He has trained consistently and intensely this off-season.

GO Week: Maui

GO Week: Maui 2025

By Samantha DePriest/Christy Faircloth

What an unforgettable week our mission team experienced on the island of Maui last month. Our TCS GO Week mission team of students and staff packed their bags right after ringing in the new year and flew to the most western part of the United States. In August of 2023, a series of wind-driven wildfires broke out on the Hawaiian island of Maui causing evacuations and widespread damage. Over 100 people lost their lives in the fires in the iconic waterfront town of Lahaina located on Maui’s northwest coast. Reports state that over 2,200 structures were destroyed and $5.5 billion in damages were the result of the fires.

Image by Matthew Thayer/The Maui News/AP

Image by John P. Rafferty/Britannica

TCS High School AP Biology and Chemistry teacher Mrs. Christy Faircloth lived on Maui for several years. God placed the beautiful people and the island of Maui on her heart when she signed up to lead the GO Week mission team. She shares, “Our students spent three days serving at three locations in Maui.  The first day they partnered with Habitat for Humanity in Wailuku.  The organization prepared pallets of wood and strips of trim for the students to assemble “Free Little Pantries” (FLP’s). The students used drills and hammers to build four FLP’s that have been placed in Lahaina (the location of the fire devastation in 8/2023).  While some students built and painted the FLP’s, others prepared digital presentations and posters that explained the need for these pantries. Habitat for Humanity used the presentations later in the week to explain the need for the FLP’s with another group of volunteers. Our students, 42 in number, were able to share what they had learned about food insecurity and the need for immediate access to free food.  This is just one example of how God used our group to multiply his message of love.” 

Mrs. Faircloth continues, “The second day, they served Maui Park and Recreation.  This was a very unique experience because the students not only served Maui by removing invasive species on the beach and dunes, but also learned the spiritual beliefs of the Hawaiian people from a 4th generation Hawaiian/Somoan man named Koko and a 7th generation Hawaiian man named Kaniloa.  The students realized how the Hawaiians value their land and worship their ancestors.  The students were inspired to learn more about their land (Georgia), but also to talk to the Hawaiians about their beliefs in Jesus and how following Jesus is similar to living Pono (the Hawaiian way of life).   Some students were caught off guard by the boldness of the Hawaiians' dedication to their belief in the ancestors, but were inspired to share their beliefs in Jesus. 

The third day, the students served at Malama Kula in the town of Kula. Upon arrival, the locals explained the fire had ripped through the area like a dragon. The fire climbed the gorges and spread out from there. The area the students cleaned up was several acres in size.  The students carried more than 20 burnt full-size trees to a central location, and removed thousands of invasive Wattle trees.  Wattle trees grow quickly and die creating fuel for future fires.  Not only did the students clean up fire debris, but they helped prevent future fires.  When I say the students worked hard, this is an understatement.  They trudged through ash, and dirt to remove trees while wore masks and gloves to protect themselves. 

That night we experienced a bad storm and lost power at our condos.  We woke up to news that our service project for that day was canceled due to the threat of flash flooding.  We took the cancellation as an opportunity to visit Lahaina and see the fire devastation first hand.  Many were moved by the loss, and surprised to see only churches standing. 

The students also had a unique opportunity to meet up with a local church, Hope Chapel of Kihei, for their Youth Group night.  The students were able to interact with local Maui youth; hanging out and talking about their similarities/differences.  The students were able to talk, laugh, and make friends with other high school Christians.”

“Last, but not least, we explored!!!  Not only did the students see unbelievable sights, but they could feel God's presence in it all too.  There is a feeling about Maui that is palpable on your skin, in your lungs, it seeps into your heart and changes you!  The students experienced Sunrise at the top of Haleakala Volcano (10,000 ft), enjoyed banana bread from Kaenae, swam at a black sand beach (Wainapanapa), walked through a bamboo forest to Waimoku Falls, survived the road to Hana, ate a $12 meal from CFA, snorkeled with Hawksbill Sea Turtles, played football on the beach, jumped off Black Rock into the ocean, roller skated in Kihei at their outdoor rink at sunset, drank Kona coffee, ate homemade pie from Leoda’s and much much more. 

I cannot finish this recap without the grande finale!  Every morning and every night we had student led devotions.  The students were in tune with each other and the Lord.  The messages they shared were on point and a direct arrow to the heart each and every time.  Some messages seemed to repeat, and the students noticed. The messages about friendship were particularly impactful and the students responded.  New and surprising relationships were formed and will hopefully continue now that we are home. 

Mrs. Christy Faircloth shared, “I am so very proud of each student on this trip.  Each of them was responsible for themselves, AND took care of each other: they shared supplies, they bought groceries while staying within a budget, they cleaned, they did laundry, they served, they had deep conversations, they allowed each other to grow, they encouraged one another, they worshiped, AND they prayed with joyful hearts, the whole time!”  

This mission team took 200 pocket Jesus's with them and students Anderson Embry and Mary Kathryn White made cards to go with them explaining who they were and why the mission team was in Maui.  The entire week they we were there students gave them out and placed them in their rooms where they stayed. After the mission team left the island, Mrs. Faircloth received this message and it touched their hearts to learn that one of the housekeeping staff took finding the little Jesus as a sign and the following week she took her family to church after they hadn’t been going for some time. How God using our students to reach hearts all over the world for His glory and honor is such a gift. What a blessing GO Week is for our students and for all they come in contact with,

Press Release: James Wheeler Joins Trinity Christian School as High School Principal

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, January 28, 2025

Trinity Christian School, Sharpsburg, GA

Web: tcslions.org | Phone: 770-251-6770

James Wheeler Joins Trinity Christian School as High School Principal

SHARPSBURG, GA – Trinity Christian School in Sharpsburg, GA, is pleased to announce James Wheeler as its new High School Principal. James has over 24 years of experience, including serving in Senior Executive Leadership roles for a Fortune 100 company.  Most recently, James has spent the past eight years at McKinney Christian Academy serving in a variety of roles including Vice Chair of the Board of Directors and as Senior Director of Advancement and Athletics, contributing significantly to the school’s growth and success.

A 1997 graduate of the University of Washington with a bachelor’s in history, James was also a student-athlete, competing on the Men’s Basketball Team. His experience as a collegiate athlete instilled in him a deep appreciation for discipline, teamwork, and leadership qualities he carries into his professional and personal life.

James has been married to LeTesha for 21 years. Together, they have two sons: Jalen, a Junior at SMU in Dallas, studying Economics and Applied Finance, and Noah, a first-year student-athlete at Grove City College, where he plays football and studies Business. The Wheeler family is passionate about ministry, education, sports, and sharing great meals with family and friends.

James is committed to cultivating an environment that encourages spiritual growth, academic achievement, and servant leadership among students and faculty. “I am honored to join the Trinity Christian School family and look forward to working alongside such a dedicated community to impact lives for God’s glory,” James shared.

Please join us in welcoming James Wheeler to Trinity Christian School!

*************

About TCS: Trinity Christian School is a fully-accredited, interdenominational, preschool through 12th grade, private school in Sharpsburg, GA. Bordering Fayette, Coweta, and Spalding counties, Trinity currently enrolls nearly 1,900 students across all campuses. In addition to its strong academics, including honors and college prep courses, students may choose from a variety of extracurricular activities, and a full range of boys’ and girls’ competitive athletic programs. Its vision is to prepare today’s student to impact tomorrow’s world.

TCS Celebrates our Grandparents and Special Friends!

TCS Celebrates our

Grandparents and Special Friends

By Samantha DePriest

One of our most beloved and cherished annual events that TCS Lower School and Upper Elementary host each year is our Grandparents and Special Friends Day. It is a day that is set aside for our students to make memories and show the extra special people in their life all of their favorite things about school. Many of our special guests live locally, however there were some who traveled from as far away as North Carolina, Florida, and Kentucky this year.

Our leadership team at Trinity Christian School share their hearts, “We believe the positive influence and support children receive from their grandparents is essential to their wellbeing and development. Not only is TCS committed to partnering with parents to ensure our students receive a quality education in a safe Christian environment, we also endeavor to foster meaningful relationships with grandparents to do the same.”

On Friday, January 17th we welcomed hundreds of our Grandparents and Special Friends back on both our Early Learning campus and Main campus for a fun filled morning with classroom visits and the Specials Experience in our gymnasium. Our special guests were able to spend time meeting all of our loving teachers and learning more about one another. Some students learned about their grandparents' childhoods through a series of questions around the classrooms, while others made keepsakes together at the Art station or solved crossword puzzles in Spanish. Other students showed their grandparents how they play various musical instruments at the Performing Arts station, competed in the obstacle course at the Physical Education station, and took pictures together by the decorative photo booths that lined the hallways. And one of our students most favorite part of the day was enjoying shopping with their Grandparents and special friends at our Lower School Safari Adventure Book Fair. Our beloved Parent Teacher Fellowship (PTF) leadership team created an awe inspiring space for students and their families to explore hundreds of books.

2025 Lower School Safari Adventure Book Fair

Our Lower School Administration team shares “At TCS, cultivating a habit of reading among students is paramount. Beyond academic gains, regular reading enhances critical thinking, comprehension, and analytical skills. Exposure to diverse literature fosters empathy and a broader worldview, while also refining vocabulary and communication skills. The habit of reading nurtures a love for learning, stimulates creativity, and encourages independent thinking. Ultimately, it equips our students with essential tools for navigating both academic challenges and the complexities of the world. We partner with a reputable, Christian-friendly book supplier. Our goal is to ensure that your grandchild has access to a wonderful array of books they will love, and that will give you peace of mind.”

The Bible tells us that it is a blessing to have grandchildren. Proverbs 17:6 states, “Grandchildren are the crown of the aged.” The impact that our grandparents have on our students goes far beyond the classroom. Our grandparents are responsible for teaching and modeling God's Word through the sharing of their Faith by living Christ-centered lives and serving as disciple-makers for future generations. We could not be more appreciative of their outpouring of love, time, and support for our students and teachers during this event and all of our school events. We cherish the relationships cultivated with our grandparents and look forward to our continued partnership through the years.

TCS Senior Owen Osborne Accepted Into Disney Dreamers Academy 2025

TCS SENIOR OWEN OSBORNE Accepted Into

Disney Dreamers Academy 2025

By Samantha DePriest

TCS High School Senior Owen Osborne is not a stranger to the spotlight but this past week, he got the surprise of a lifetime when Walt Disney World Ambassador Shannon Smith-Conrad and Mickey Mouse made a surprise visit to our school gym. When our front office staff received the phone call from Disney asking to visit our school so they could surprise one of our students, they were in disbelief. TCS Assistant Head of School, Mr. Blake Bass, was holding an assembly during the Advisement period immediately following Chapel about the importance of mentorship for our upperclassmen when the special guests arrived.

Walt Disney World Ambassador Shannon Smith-Conrad, Atlanta-area student Owen Osborne and Mickey Mouse during the surprise announcement moment. (Image by Katie Neumann)

Walt Disney World Ambassador Shannon Smith-Conrad, Atlanta-area student Owen Osborne and Mickey Mouse during the surprise announcement moment. (Image by Katie Neumann)

TCS Senior Owen Osborne

(Image by Katie Neumann)

Last year Owen applied for the Disney Dreamers Academy and out of thousands of students across the country was chosen as one of the 100 students in the Class of 2025 to receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Walk Disney World. The Disney Dreamers Academy (DDA) is part of the Walt Disney World Resort mentoring program.

Each Spring, 100 students are blessed with four full days of meeting mentors, making connections with other student leaders, attending career workshops, networking, and even learning how to dress for success and other important skills for the workplace. Each student is accompanied by a parent or guardian and receives complimentary airfare, hotel accommodations and theme park tickets.

The hope of the Disney Dreamers Academy is that at the conclusion of the four days, these 100 students are equipped with the motivation, guidance and skills to help make their dreams come true. Owen will head south this March to participate in DDA.

Walt Disney World Ambassador Shannon Smith-Conrad, Atlanta-area student Owen Osborne and Mickey Mouse
during the surprise announcement moment. (Image by Katie Neumann)

Owen thanked God first and foremost for the opportunities he has been blessed with in his life. He went on to thank his parents, teachers, acting coach, classmates, and friends for helping to support his dreams. He hopes to inspire fellow students to chase their dreams. We couldn’t be more excited for Owen to attend the Disney Dreamer Academy this March and shine his light for Jesus.

GO Week Local: Love in Action

GO Week LocaL: Love in action

By Samantha DePriest

Each year, our GO Week local teams serve in and around our community, helping to meet the needs that our nonprofit and ministry partners address for residents. There are so many people hurting right here in our hometown, and our students have the opportunity to serve and make a positive impact. TCS missions teams arrived at our main campus bright and early each morning for a time of prayer together led by Mr. Blake Bass, Assistant Head of School. They then loaded into buses and vans and traveled to four different local ministries: A.O. House at FBC Newnan, Backpack Buddies, Bridging the Gap, and St. Peter’s Church in Atlanta.

A.O. House at FBC Newnan

Image by Samantha DePriest

The purpose of the A.O House at First Baptist Newnan is “to show God’s love to those in our community who are in need. The goal is to help them through difficult times by providing food and clothing. They are told of God’s everlasting gift – Jesus Christ.” They are located right behind First Baptist Church in downtown Newnan and able to serve members in the community within both driving and walking distance of the church.

While serving at the A.O. House, our students assisted church members in sorting donated food into individual take home bags and bringing them out to members in the community. After loading their cars, they asked if there were any specific prayer requests and prayed right there with them. Meanwhile other students assisted in sorting donated clothing items in their shopping closet. Each shopper was able to choose items of clothing and shoes for each member of their family. If you and your family are interested in being a part of what God is doing at the A.O House, details can be found on their website: www.fbcnewnan.org/ministries/the-ao-house-mission-center/.

Backpack Buddies, Newnan

Image by Brittany Girard

Backpack Buddies “exists to supply economically disadvantaged children in Coweta County with food for the weekend.” During their time there, our students assisted in packing over 1,000 bags of food that will be distributed to schools for students to take home as well as helped unload a van load of donations to be sorted in the warehouse. If you and your family are interested in plugging in and serving, various volunteer opportunities can be found on their website: https://backpackbuddiesga.org/volunteer

Just a few blocks away, another team of our students was serving at Bridging the Gap. The heart of Bridging the Gap since their start in 2009 has been “that everyone deserves support during difficult times. Our mission is to assist those who are struggling to make ends meet through a compassionate, three-step approach: 1. Feed: Providing nutritious meals and food supplies. 2. Serve: Connecting individuals to essential resources and services. 3. Restore: Helping families rebuild stability and self-sufficiency. Our mission to bridge the gap for those in our community.”

Our students spent several hours each day serving in the warehouse sorting donated food items both non-perishable and frozen foods. If you and your family would like to volunteer or donate to Bridging the Gap, details can be found on their website at: www.btgcommunity.org/how-you-can-help

Lastly, a team of students traveled up to Atlanta to serve at St. Peter’s Church. Our students worked hard to help deep clean the church. The Pastor was so impressed by our students’ work ethic and shared words of encouragement with our mission team about how their helping to provide a clean, fresh space for the congregation to study God’s word and worship would help show the love of Christ to them. Sometimes it’s the little things that make the biggest impact.

Each of these local partners expressed their sincere appreciation for our teams' help, both this year and in previous years. They emphasized how crucial the time and service our school community provides, leaving a lasting impact. May the hearts of those who were served be encouraged and reminded that they are loved and prayed for. And may opportunities like these continue to shape and mold the hearts and minds of our students into servant leaders for Christ.

A.O. House at FBC Newnan

Image by Samantha DePriest

Bridging the Gap, Newnan

Image by Samantha DePriest

Bridging the Gap, Newnan

Image by Samantha DePriest

Backpack Buddies, Newnan

Image by Brittany Girard

Backpack Buddies, Newnan

Image by Brittany Girard

Backpack Buddies, Newnan

Image by Brittany Girard

St. Peter’s Church, Atlanta

Image by Lady Grooms

Backpack Buddies, Newnan

Image by Brittany Girard

St. Peter’s Church, Atlanta

Image by Lady Grooms

Backpack Buddies, Newnan

Image by Brittany Girard

Backpack Buddies, Newnan

Image by Brittany Girard

TRINITY MIKE FITZPATRICK FORD STUDENT

“ATHLETE OF THE WEEK” AWARDS

By Samantha DePriest

Trinity Christian School is honored to have Mike Fitzpatrick of Fitzpatrick Ford in Newnan recognize several of our Winter student athletes with the “Athlete of the Week” Award. We join Mr. Fitzpatrick in saying that we are wholeheartedly proud of these athletes who demonstrate qualities of leadership, character, and determination in their sport and on their teams. Below are our most recent recipients of the Fitzpatrick “Athlete of the Week Award” for the month of December. Way to go Lions!!

Mark Hayden

Basketball

12/2/24

Mark has worked hard to prepare himself for a great senior season. He is a phenomenal leader both on and off the court. 

Luke Thomas

Wrestling

12/9/24

Luke had an incredible performance this week placing 4th at KOM Tournament and winning the East Coweta Tomahawk Tussle. Great leader for this year's team.

Oh The Places We Will Go: TCS GO Week 2025

Oh The Places We Will Go: TCS GO Week 2025

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nationals, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 28:19

By Samantha DePriest

The heart of TCS High School is to see our students fulfill the Great Commission and share the love of Christ to others. GO Week is an annual week-long opportunity to serve with fellow students in places all over the world. TCS is strengthened through these shared student and faculty service experiences. While we have students traveling domestically and internationally each January to give the opportunity to serve in different cultures, we also have students serving right here in our local community.  

TCS Leadership shares, “TCS officially launched GO Week in 2018 and models the reign of the King of Kings through a week of concentrated servanthood the first week of school the first week of the second semester. The very first year, approximately 275 students dispersed into ministries dedicated to the forgotten, the homeless, and the hungry. Over the years the teams have grown and this past year, over 500 students participated in GO Week to minister to the least of these.”

TCS Student Lily Wozniak shares the gospel during a soccer camp in Ecuador.

Over the last 6 years, our TCS GO Week mission teams have served in various places all over the globe including Austria, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Jamaica, Haiti, Panama, and Puerto Rico. Mission teams have also served with a wide variety of ministries here in the United States including Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Mississippi, Montana, New York, and Texas. Our Local GO Week teams have served a crucial role in partnership with outreach efforts in and around our community including Backpack Buddies, Bridging the Gap, Camp Southern Ground, City of Refuge, Georgia Baptist Children’s Home, God’s Eyes, Habitat for Humanity, Hope Global, Hope Revisited, One Roof, Operation Mobilization, Riverlife, Riverside Church Pure Hope Outreach, and Wesley Woods.

While Covid, snowstorms, and even an earthquake have impacted some of our trips over the six years, our mission teams never doubted the calling placed on their lives to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Over the course of the first semester of this school year, weekly high school chapel services specifically focused on the attributes of God with intentional focus on specific scriptures and passages shared by various pastors, our students have been equipped and are ready to serve.

Please join us in lifting up our high school students and staff members as they serve in GO Week 2025. This year we have mission teams heading as far away as Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, Ecuador, London, and even Dubai. Many of our teams are serving stateside in New Orleans, Louisiana, Orlando, Florida, Phoenix, Arizona, and Dallas, Texas. We even have a mission team heading to assist in wildfire relief efforts in Maui, Hawaii. In partnership with local non-profits and ministries, some of our students will serve right here in our community as well as Fulton county. Over the coming weeks, we will share stories of our mission teams sharing love in action, spreading Faith, helping with community development, building connections and relationships, all while serving others and glorifying God. It truly is a great time to be a TCS Lion!

TCS Middle School Student Henry Cook Shines Bright on the Big Stage and in the Classroom

TCS Middle School Student Henry Cook Shines

Bright on the Big Stage and in the Classroom

By Samantha DePriest

While it seems like he has always been a Trinity Christian School Lion, Henry Cook officially joined the family in the third grade. Henry wasted no time jumping in to all TCS had to offer. He joined the Middle School track team, Middle School Drama, and was recently inducted into the Junior Thespian Society. You may recognize Henry Cook from numerous TCS theatre productions as he played Charlie in Charlie Brown in sixth grade, Nemo in Nemo Jr., and as Old Man Jenkins in SpongeBob in seventh grade.

Henry Cook as Charlie Bucket in “Willy Wonka” at Legacy Theatre.

Academics is very important to Henry and he takes his education very seriously. When Henry is not participating in academics, arts and athletics at TCS, he is heavily involved with at the Legacy Theatre in Tyrone. Taking more than five hours of theatre lessons each week at the Legacy Theatre has given him opportunities to be a part of numerous professional productions including “Elvis” and “Pelagius”. He even learned how to play guitar for his role in Elvis. He also was in Frozen Jr, Grease Jr, and Rock of Ages Jr. Most recently, he played the role of Charlie Bucket in the show “Willy Wonka”.

Henry, pictured left, cast as Nemo in TCS MS production of Nemo Jr.

Henry, pictured far right, with two of his cast members and classmates in TCS MS production of Nemo Jr.

TCS Theatre Director Mrs. Lizzie Perez shared, “This past Wednesday, December 11th, I had the privilege of going to the Legacy theater with our middle school chorus and drama students to not only experience theater but also support one of our classmates Henry Cook. It was so incredible to see him up there amongst professional actors doing what he loves to do. We learn on stage and we learn through practicing our craft and while TCS offers incredible classes through electives and after school drama opportunities, for Henry to be able to have that experience in the community is huge for him.

Henry Cook, pictured left, in “Elvis” at Legacy Theatre.

(Image from Steve Thrasher at the Legacy Theatre)

Henry, pictured center, in Elvis at the Legacy Theatre. (Image from Leslie Cook)

Whether it was Finding Nemo Jr. or SpongeBob at TCS, all of those have given him the experience that he needed to to be on stage at Legacy Theatre with those professionals. He is growing a lot through their firm as well. The way his education training is able to give him support and allowed him to do a school setting type show is a gift. Our TCS teachers work with him and have given him ways to excel in his classes and work remotely while the same time continue to have that community with his other students. Prioritizing his textbook education in the midst of his craft education requires much dedication on his part.

It is a testament when we are able to do the things that we love that the Lord has created us to do. And to share the gift that the Lord has given us makes us more well-rounded. Our mission at TCS is to prepare students for tomorrows world…sometimes that looks like supporting them at an outside organization and giving them resources when they are back at school to continue that education.

Henry as Charlie in Charlie Brown Jr pictured with his big sister Riley who is also in theatre.

It was a blessing that our students were able to see Henry in his element working so hard on stage and recognizing the work and time that goes into it. When he came out after the show, our students couldn’t wait to get pictures with him on stage and enjoy lunch at Chick-fil-A afterwards. That was so cool to see, It is a picture of the sweet community that exists within our student body and I think that is pretty incredible.”

At Trinity Christian School, our students are gifted with such a wide variety of God given talents and skills. Coming alongside each of them and their families is both a privilege and honor. There is nothing more fulfilling than witnessing growth and development in each of our students as they live out God’s plan for their lives. We are thrilled for Henry and look forward to seeing what God has next in store for him.

Henry Cook, pictured center, with some of his Honors English classmates after his performance in “Willy Wonka” on December 5, 2024..

Alumni Spotlight: Landen Poling’s Message on God’s Justice and his journey into youth ministry

Alumni Spotlight: Landen Poling’s Message on God’s Justice and his journey into youth ministry

By Samantha DePriest

In a historic moment at Trinity Christian School, Landen Poling, a TCS alumni, had the honor of preaching at the high school chapel - a first for our school. The chapel, filled with over 500 students and staff, continued its series on the attributes of God, with Landen’s message focusing on the justice of God. His message resonated with our students, as he was able to connect with their current experiences, drawing on his own journey and faith over more than a decade at TCS.

Mr. Ryan Tipton pictured left, with Class of ‘23 Alumni Landen Poling.

Landen is currently a sophomore at Covenant College and has been a part of the TCS community since preschool. From PreK through 12th grade, he shared of the Christ-centered relationships he built with classmates and teachers during over the course of 14 years. These friendships, along with the strong community at TCS, left a lasting impact on him and helped shape his spiritual growth.

Now studying Biblical and Theological Studies at Covenant College, Landen is also an RA (Resident Assistant) on his floor, where he continues to serve and grow in his faith. Reflecting on his time at TCS, Landen shared how God has been leading him into youth ministry, a calling that has been evident to him for years. His relationship with his youth pastor, his high school experiences, the opportunity for him to attend Covenant College, and an internship with his youth group last summer have all been signs guiding him toward this path. Most recently, the opportunity to speak at the TCS chapel served as another confirmation of God's plan for his life, further affirming his sense of purpose. He expressed his sincere gratitude to Mr. Tipton for giving him the opportunity to speak at chapel.

Landen’s chapel message was not only a reminder of the attributes of God but also a testament to how God’s faithfulness unfolds in one's life. Through personal experiences and a clear sense of calling, Landen's story serves as an inspiring example for our students as they navigate their own journeys of faith and discernment. Click the button below to listen to Landen’s chapel message.

Following his time preaching in chapel, Landen joined Dr. Anthony on an episode of Table Talk. Dr. Anthony enjoyed having first-ever alumni guest on the show. What a big day for our Class of ‘23 grad!

Landen shared with Dr. Anthony how a Christ-centered education helped to shape his faith and inspired him to pursue a career in ministry. He also emphasized how the impact of a strong Christian community, the lessons he learned at TCS, and how those experiences prepared him for life beyond the classroom.

Whether you are a current student, parent, or alumni, this episode of Table Talk is a testament to the lasting influence of a Trinity education. Click the button below to hear Landen’s inspiring story and learn how TCS continues to make a difference in the lives of its students - past and present.

TRINITY MIKE FITZPATRICK FORD STUDENT

“ATHLETE OF THE WEEK” AWARDS

By Samantha DePriest

Trinity Christian School is honored to have Mike Fitzpatrick of Fitzpatrick Ford in Newnan recognize several of our Fall student athletes with the “Athlete of the Week” Award. We join Mr. Fitzpatrick in saying that we are wholeheartedly proud of these athletes who demonstrate qualities of leadership, character, and determination in their sport and on their teams. Below are our most recent recipients of the Fitzpatrick “Athlete of the Week Award” for the month of November. Way to go Lions!!

Elliott Pabst

Swimming

11/4/24

Elliott is a great leader for our TCS swim team and has been a phenomenal athlete for the last four years. 

Joshua Schatzberg

Archery

11/11/24

Joshua Schatzberg is being recognized for placing first with a 283 out of a possible 300 score in the Loganville High School Bullseye #1 NASP tournament.  Joshua also scored a perfect end of 50 points at 10 meters during the same tournament.

Elyse Norris

Basketball

11/18/24

We would like to recognize a student-athlete whose effort, desire, sacrifice, and contribution has made a difference.  Elyse started the 2024-2025 basketball season off strong leading her team to victory in their season opener against South Gwinnett on Saturday with 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists.  Elyse is a proven leader on and off the court, putting in the hard work to get back to the sport she loves after a season-ending injury in 2023.  

Alumni Spotlight: Henry Brodnax's Journey of Faith, Leadership, and Athletics

Alumni Spotlight: Henry Brodnax's Journey of

Faith, Leadership, and AthleticS

By Samantha DePriest

Henry Brodnax’s journey from Trinity Christian School to a rising star at LaGrange College is one marked by perseverance, faith, and leadership. A standout athlete both on the football and baseball fields in high school, Henry’s story is one of determination and growth in academics, athletics, and and as a Christian leader.

Henry came to TCS in the 5th grade, alongside his older sister, and quickly made a name for himself. His dream was to become the starting quarterback for the school’s football team. He also excelled in baseball eventually becoming a three-year starter and team captain in high school. Henry was part of the graduating class of 2023, served in National Honor Society (NHS), BETA Club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and took numerous AP and Dual Enrollment (DE) classes. With the support of TCS coaches Lance Duncan and Ryan Duncan, Henry shares that he felt more than equipped to play football at the next level.

Henry committed to Hanover College in Indiana where he was set to play both football and baseball. Midway through the second semester of his freshman year, he decided to transfer closer to home and entered the transfer portal. It was then that the LaGrange College (LC) defensive coordinator reached out offering him an opportunity to play the sport he loved less than an hour from home. He shared that immediately he felt a connection to the campus, coaches, and the tight-knit community at LC. He was offered opportunities from football programs around the country, but LC’s vision for rebuilding its football program resonated with him. The chance to play a key role in that process became an exciting prospect for him.

The summer leading into his sophomore year he came out of Fall Camp as the starting quarterback, a position he embraced with humility and leadership. The season started off slow, but Henry’s determination and growth as a leader were instrumental in the team’s success. Throughout the season, his role extended beyond his athletic abilities. He also became a spiritual leader on the team, most recently starting a weekly men’s Bible study every Monday for his teammates. Using Tony Evans’ Kingdom Man devotional, the group of 10-15 players gather to discuss life, pray for one another, and reflect on how to strengthen their faith amidst the pressures of college life and athletics.

Most recently in October, Henry was given the opportunity to share his faith journey and testimony during his chapel talk during Homecoming weekend. Speaking to a packed church, he shared how growing up in a Christian home and school can sometimes lead to complacency, but that spiritual warfare is constant, and every day requires a decision to stay committed to God. His transparency and vulnerability resonated with the LC community, with several alumni reaching out afterward to offer words of encouragement. Henry shared that a handful of football players made the decision to sign up to speak at future chapel services following his testimony. Before home games, several team members also serve in local elementary schools reading to students. Henry’s commitment to praying for his team before games and having a teammate lead a prayer at halftime is also fostering a stronger sense of unity and purpose among the players.

The LC football team finished 6-2 in conference play and 6-4 overall, securing their best record since 2009 and finishing second in the conference. One of his most memorable moments was the team’s dramatic win against Huntingdon, where they were down to the wire and managed to secure victory with just 22 seconds left in the game.

Henry shares that the support of his college professors and teammates, along with the strong sense of community at LC, contribute to his personal and athletic growth. His Anatomy teacher, for example, made it a point to update him on his stats every Monday. The small campus atmosphere has made it easy for him to connect with others, including his teammates, professors, and even his grandfather, who comes down every Wednesday to enjoy lunch with him.

In his final game of the season, with 30 friends and family members in the stands, he was surrounded by the unwavering support. The close-knit environment at LC is allowing him to thrive. As he moves forward in his journey, Henry’s story serves as an inspiring example of how the firm foundation of faith and leadership can come together to shape not only a successful career but also a life of purpose.