TCS Adds Kiwanis Builders Club: Developing Servant Leaders

TCS Adds Kiwanis Builders Club:

Developing Servant Leaders

By Samantha DePriest

It is part of the mission of Trinity Christian School to build servant leaders. “Our mission is to prepare today’s student to impact tomorrow's world: by educating minds for cultural engagement, equipping hearts for character development, and empowering hands for compassionate service.” Last year our Middle School added the Kiwanis Builders Club to the list of offerings for grades 6th through 8th. Mrs. Natalie Jetter, 8th Grade Skills Development and Builders Club Faculty Advisor, has been leading Kiwanis service clubs for the past 5 years, first at Welch Elementary School with K-Kids, and now here at TCS with Builders Club.

Mrs. Natalie Jetter leads monthly Builders Club meetings for students to engage and work towards common goals of serving others. Mrs. Jetter shares, “Last year the very first Builders Club at Trinity was born. Jesus said," Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant." (Matthew 20:26) It is my great desire that young people be counter cultural, and learn to serve in their school and community, because in doing so, they are imitating the Lord Jesus, the ultimate servant of all. We are so blessed to be able to do these acts of service in the name of the Lord, and to "look not only to our own interests, but also to the interests of others. Also, the leadership skills the students learn will be invaluable throughout their lives. I am so thankful that the Lord has called me to facilitate this wonderful club!”

The Builders Club website shares about the purpose and goal of its organization. “There are more than 1,500 Builders Clubs in middle schools around the world. No two are alike. Each club is an independent entity-designed for its members, by its members. They work together to improve their schools and their communities. Their service also increases the visibility and enhances the reputation of both the club and the school or organization they represent. The program is designed to fit member and volunteer interests.”

Mr. Thompson, Kiwanis of Coweta, attends TCS Builders Club meetings.

In September, Mr. Matt Thompson from Kiwanis of Coweta visited TCS and spent time sharing with our students in Builders Club about what the club is all about and the role they serve in the community. He listened attentively to the students as they shared their desires to serve in Builders Club and even blessed them with a surprise of purple and white cupcakes at the end of their meeting.

Mrs. Jetter shares that the club exists to help build leaders through serving. She refers to the verse in the book of Ephesians 2:10 “For we are God's handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Mrs. Jetter goes on to share that, “Developing servant leaders helps to build confidence in our students, a spirit of gratitude, fosters creativity, encourages helping others, and develops connections in the community all while having fun.”

2023-2024 Builder’s Club Leadership Team with Mr. Thompson

(l to r) Macy Almand, Carter Pilkenton, Lucas Sprague, Reid Staffins, Kaiden Richarson, and Samantha Malenius

In the beginning of the school year, students had the opportunity to run for a leadership role within the club. Several students had prepared speeches of why they would like to serve in these roles within the Builders Club. Students were also encouraged to think about and write down ways in which they can serve our school as well as in the community. Mr. Thompson shared with the students how each role helps the mission of Builders Club. The following students were nominated by their peers to serve in these leadership roles this school year.

• Lucas Sprague and Samantha Malenius, Public Relations - convey the message, take good ideas and communicate them with others.

• Macy Almand, Secretary - assist with record keeping, good with details, have good handwriting, and is eager to do the job.

• Carter Pilkenton, Treasurer - responsible for keeping the money. If proven trustworthy in the small things, later will be trusted with big things.

• Reid Staffins, Vice President - back-up for the president, can fill in when necessary.

• Kaiden Richardson, President - make sure every officer is doing the job and promoting goodwill, joy, and happiness.                            

Mrs. Jetter and Builders Club Christmas caroling at Magnolia Senior Living Center.

In October, the Builders Club compiled a list of of tips to avoid cyber bullying which benefitted our TCS students. In November, the students raised money by doing projects at home for the Wounded Warrior Project honoring veterans. Most recently this month, students had their first off-campus mission at nearby Magnolia Senior Living Center. They sang Christmas carols and gave out hand made Christmas cards and mints to residents. You could see the joy on the residents faces when the students visited with them.

Impactful opportunities like these give our students experiences to help to build a firm foundation for their future. Empowering students to learn in and seek out gifts and talents that God has gifted them with, not for their own benefit but rather for the benefit of others, that’s what TCS is all about. Developing a spirit of generosity and a heart for service while keeping Jesus first is what will make this next generation of world changers successful.

Students handed out mints to residents.

Students gave handmade Christmas cards to residents.

Builders Club Christmas caroling at Magnolia Senior Living Center on December 4, 2023.

Middle School Discipleship Day

Middle School Discipleship Day

“O come let us adore Him. Why? For He alone is worthy. “

By Samantha DePriest

Middle School Discipleship Day is a day set aside from the regular academic schedule to adore the name of Jesus Christ. It is one of those days and experiences that remind us of the many reasons why more than 1,600 students choose to call Trinity Christian School home. “From breakout sessions at NCG diving into God’s Word with popcorn in hand to smiles and sunshine on the football field and then to worshipping together in Chapel, we were intentional to adore the name of Jesus Christ” shares Middle School RTA Coordinator Mrs. Hanson. Mrs. Hanson goes on to say, “Our students were reminded why God’s Word is worthy of our time and what it teaches us. Students were asked to reflect on their time, talent, and treasure. They were encouraged toward intentional steps to maturity in their walk with the Lord. They were reminded that who they are is tied to whose they are. Jesus Christ is absolutely worthy, and what a great day it is to be a MS Lion!”

Breakout sessions at NCG on Wednesday, November 29th were led by various speakers including Pastor BJ Cobb (Pastor at First Baptist of Senoia), Ryan Tipton (TCS High School Bible teacher), Adam McCloud (Sovereign Hope Church) and many leaders from Snowbird Wilderness Outfitters in Andrews, NC including Rob Conti, Spencer Davis, Dawson Dickey, Brody Holloway (Co-founder and Lead Pastor), Jon Rouleau, and Camden Schwarting speaking about topics including:

Bible: Why is it worthy of my time and attention?

Jesus: Why should I follow and obey Him?

Service: What am I supposed to be doing for God?

Immediately following the breakout sessions at NCG, students and staff returned to TCS campus for lunch and games on the field. We were blessed with beautiful weather and a fun time was had by all. In the afternoon, all of the middle school students met in Chapel. Mr. Vinson invited Brody Holloway, Director of Snowbird Wilderness Outfitters in Andrews, NC, to speak from I Corinthians 13:11 to our students. Mr. Vinson goes on to share, “As our middle school students continue to grow, Brody reminded them of their need to embrace responsibility and to let go of childish things as they mature. He also helped our students see that part of growing is learning to take ownership of their own spiritual growth and the expression of that growth towards others in the ways they seek to love and serve.”

Mr. Vinson then opened up for a Q&A session submitted by students. Listening to the questions of our students served as a reminder of how grateful our families are to have a place and space for these children to safely ask and receive Biblical guidance and direction from such an incredible team of Faith followers. Questions were submitted ahead of time and answered were formulated based on scripture in the Bible and with well thought out responses to share as encouragement and guidance. Mr. Vinson shared his heart with the students and encouraged them to surround themselves with thriving relationships among strong Christian friends and trustworthy adults like parents, pastors, and youth pastors when they have questions both about their Faith and about the world they are growing up in. He stressed the importance of these things especially during this time in their lives so they are continually pointed to Jesus and not to the things of the world.

In closing, the students joined in small groups in their dismissal classrooms for a time of reflection. This allowed for conversations among peers and with teachers to talk about what they had learned during the day, what they may be still struggling with, and how they can encourage one another to grow in their Faith. Opportunities like this for our students are a precious gift and help to build and form firm foundations that serve as a launching pad for their Faith. Days like these are what makes TCS so special and the sacrifices made worth every penny. After all, the mission of TCS is to prepare today’s student to impact tomorrow's world: by educating minds for cultural engagement, equipping hearts for character development, and empowering hands for compassionate service. The annual Middle School Discipleship day is doing just that.

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 November. Way to go Lions!!

SeAnna Johnson

Girls Flag Football

11/6/23

Multisport standout SeAnna Johnson has been a dominant force on both offense and defense. Last week, she tallied 7 touchdowns and 5 Pick-6s over the span of four games. 

TJ Timpson

Shotgun Team

11/13/23

TJ is a talented and dedicated student-athlete who has a genuine love for the sport.  He is a natural leader that puts his teammates' success ahead of his own.  He is humble and gracious with his personal successes and achievements.  He achieves a balance between his academics, marching band, and the shotgun team.

Jackson Rice

Swim

11/27/23
Jackson is our swim team captain and leads the team by word and by example. He is always on time,  he is kind to his teammates, and he treats all other swimmers with respect and kindness. He is also a part of two state qualifying relay teams for this season so far. 

Family Traditions and Lasting Legacies

Family Traditions and Lasting Legacies

By Samantha DePriest

Family traditions are part of what makes the holidays so special and help create lasting legacies for generations to come. Twenty years ago, Patricia Ann Griffin (Johnson) started an outreach she lovingly called “Thanksgiving Plates”. Her son and daughter-in-law, Mr. Frankie and Dorothy Johnson, and the Trinity Church Outreach team joined alongside her and each year have grown the ministry to help serve a Thanksgiving meal for those in need in the the community. The outreach was renamed a few years back to “Franksgiving” though Mr. Frankie is usually found working diligently behind the scenes and gives all glory to God for the growth of this ministry.

At the very heart of this ministry, the hope was to provide a delicious hot meal for those who didn’t have one. Families from both Trinity Church and Trinity Christian School join together to provide prepared dishes and extra hands on Thanksgiving morning as they make to go boxes filled with all the things. Each carefully prepared meal includes both turkey and ham, green beans, macaroni and cheese, dressing, cranberry sauce, rolls, sweet potato and pumpkin pies, and plasticware. A very special thank you to local restaurant Jim ‘N Nicks Bar-B-Q located just across the street from Trinity who graciously donated delicious side dishes as well. Over 150 volunteers met in the Gathering Place bright and early at 9am this past Thanksgiving morning joyful and ready to serve together representing the church, the school, TCS alumni, and extended friends and family. In record time, these world changers both seasoned and newbies helped prepare 875 delicious meals in just about 2 hours.

Once each box was prepared and checked for quality control, they were carefully bagged, loaded into cars, and taken by volunteers to make special deliveries all over the community. Cars line up with trunks open and ready to deliver. From mobile homes to apartments, extended stay motels to the homeless, these hot meals reached to the far corners of our county spreading joy on a day that can be difficult for many.

When speaking with Dorothy and Frankie, they humbly shared their wish for this outreach was to continue to be grow and meet more needs in the community. They also desire for it to be passed down to the next generation one day, as it was passed down to them from Ms. Patricia. Each year they strive to make it a little more efficient and easy to replicate so they can serve more people and encourage more volunteers to serve.

“Thanksgiving Plates” is truly a legacy of love and a family tradition that is sharing the love of Christ in a world that so desperately needs it. What a beautiful way to give those looking to make a difference an outlet for compassionate service. To see the heart of God is to witness His people sacrificially giving of their time, talent, and resources to reach into their own backyards and love on and encourage one another.

TCS Junior Chef Cooking Classes

TCS Junior Chef Cooking Classes

By Samantha DePriest

At TCS we are grateful and blessed to have incredible SAGE chefs on campus preparing delicious and healthy foods every day for our students, staff, and visitors. Recently our students from Upper Elementary, Middle and High School joined together to learn from the best during TCS Kids Cooking Classes. In an effort to help create lifelong culinary skills by learning the basics of cooking, our students met in small groups with our head chef’s to learn how to prepare delicious Thanksgiving side dishes. After all, Thanksgiving is all about spending time with family and friends around the table enjoying delicious food and fellowship.

Cooking classes were held in the main kitchen and led by Chef Justin and Chef Marie who lead teams in both of our main campus kitchens. The menu was two favorite Thanksgiving side dishes Sweet Potato Souffle with Marshmallows and Smoked Gouda Macaroni and Cheese.

Students learned the necessary steps to navigating and maintaining safety while in the kitchen, preparing food, following step-by-step directions in a recipe, and how to work together.

There was plenty of laughter from our Junior Chef’s and story telling about when they cook with their families at home. Inspiring comments like these from the students brought smiles to the Chef’s faces.

  "I've never tried sweet potatoes before, but I think I really like them." 

  "I am definitely going to make this recipe at home for my Mom." 

  "This to-go box isn't going to make it home because I am going to eat it all right now."

  "Can you teach me how to make creme brulee?"

  "You know how TCS is starting an Aviation program, they should start a Culinary program too."

“Can we come back tomorrow afternoon and learn to make another recipe?”

Chef Justin and Chef Marie were so patient and encouraging with all the students. They made learning to cook fun and shared their own stories and kitchen tips with them. Chef Justin shared a very important tip that he was taught in culinary school, “Picture who is your most favorite person in your whole life and then ask yourself, would I serve them this dish?” He encouraged the students to “Taste everything you make before you serve it. Even if it’s not something that you like to eat, always taste everything you make before you serve it others. I don’t really like mayo but I taste everything I put mayo in to make sure those who I am serving will be pleased with it.” The students were encouraged to try new things and step out of their comfort zones, you never know when the next new thing you try could become a favorite.

TCS strives for excellence in all areas including our food service program. Empowering our students to learn new skills and serve one another is just another way TCS partners with families to provide enriching and engaging educational experiences. We look forward to future cooking classes with our SAGE Chefs. Stay tuned for more details and registration in upcoming weekly “Inside the Pride” newsletters.

Two Lady Lions Celebrated at Signing Day

Two Lady Lions Celebrated at Signing Day

By Samantha DePriest

On Thursday, November 9th two of our TCS female student athletes signed to play their favorite sports in college in the fall of 2024. High school senior Gabbie Grooms signed to play Women’s Basketball at Georgia Tech, Division I, and senior Celene McLean committed to play Women’s Volleyball at Virginia State University, Division II.

Surrounded by family, friends, teammates, and coaches both Gabbie and Celene were lifted up in prayer, spoken over with words of encouragement, and praised for their humility, hard work, and commitment to their sports. They truly represent what it means to be a Trinity Lion with their love of the Lord and commitment to excellence both on and off the court. We wish them all the best and look forward to cheering them on in their future endeavors.

TCS Athletic Director Lance Duncan shares, “Student athletes that get the opportunity to compete at the next level are a select few and this should be celebrated.” He goes on to say, “We love getting to celebrate with our athletes whether in person at signings, on social media or just word of mouth. What a honor to get to represent TCS at the next level in their sport.”

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Gabbie Grooms

What age did you start playing basketball? 

I’ve been around basketball my whole life because my mom constantly ran camps and clinics, but I didn’t start really playing until my 5th-grade summer going into middle school.

What other sports/extracurriculars did you play growing up? 

I did dance all throughout elementary school, with cheer as well. I was the captain of my little cheer team, I even used to make up my own cheers for us. When people would ask me if I was going to play basketball my answer was always, “Ew no, I’m a cheerleader haha!”

How have your coaches/teachers/mentors helped you get to where you are today? 

Nothing has come to me easily, I never experienced special treatment or got things handed to me. My coaches made sure of it, they constantly pushed me constantly made me go through hard so that I could grow and become stronger. My mom has been my most consistent trainer and coach, and she truly has prepared me probably over prepared me because I’m not sure there's a coach that can be harder on me than she has been, but I am so blessed because I wouldn’t be here without her.

In your own words, what is the most important part of being a part of a team? 

The most important part of a team is uplifting each other, basketball is mentally draining at times. Dealing with self-doubt or different anxieties and mental struggles, so having a team that will uplift you and help you through these things is crucial. Having a positive team helps the game be more enjoyable and leads to success, that’s why I am so thankful that I am at Trinity because I love the energy of our team.

If you could give student-athletes some advice, what would it be? 

My advice would be don’t let doubt and fear stop you. We all have it, and it can feel overwhelming. Trust in God and trust in your game and the work that you put in, we can only play the games we love for so long, enjoy it, and strive to be your best in it. Failure is normal!! Everyone fails, but not everyone gets up, be the one who gets up! Play because you love playing and play to honor God who gives us these abilities and gifts. 

Any special shout outs for who you would like to thank for helping you along this journey.   

I’d love to thank Brandon Clay, he is over my AAU organization. He is also my mentor he took me under his wing and helped me so much with my game, with my recruiting, and so much more. He is a big part of why I am going to GT, and why I have grown into the player and leader I am today. I'm so thankful for God bringing him into my life it was truly a blessing.

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Celene McLean

What age did you start playing volleyball? 

I started playing when I was 12 years old.

What other sports/extracurriculars did you play growing up?

I ran track, played tennis, competitive 

cheerleading, soccer, basketball, and ballet.

How have your coaches/teachers/mentors helped you get to where you are today?

I've had many coaches that didn't think I'd get to where I am today, but honestly I only really needed my parents. 

In your own words, what is the most important part of being a part of a team?

The most important part to me is to have that family feeling, to feel like I can go through thick and thin with them.

If you could give student athletes some advice, what would it be?

To keep going even when you feel like you are about to give up, and know that the Lord directs your path and no one else.

Is there is anyone you would like to thank for helping you along this journey?

I would like to thank God. My family, most of all my parents and siblings, and my best friend who I'm attending college with to play volleyball.

TCS BETA Club hosts Veterans Celebration Dinner

TCS BETA Club hosts

Veterans Celebration Dinner

By Samantha DePriest

A special evening to honor our active and retired military at the Veterans Celebration Dinner hosted by TCS BETA Club was held on Monday, November 13th in the Gathering Place at Trinity Christian School. Student members from the high school BETA Club served all those in attendance with honor, respect, gratitude, and admiration.

BETA students served a delicious meal prepared by SAGE dining on beautifully decorated tables adorned with handmade cards, performed beautiful music both in song and dance, read original poetry written by fellow classmates, and presented each honored guest with a certificate of appreciation and recognition for their service and sacrifice. It was truly a beautiful time of fellowship and remembrance of the sacrifices made for all of our freedoms.

A very special thank you to BETA Club Staff Liaison Mrs. Val Adams and high school principal Mrs. Kimmy Jones for their commitment and support in raising up this next generation of servant leaders who recognize and honor the importance of those brave soldiers who have gone before us to fight for our freedoms. The Bible tells us in John 15:12-13 “My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” We are forever thankful for all of the veterans who have selflessly laid down their lives for others and sacrificed their time away from family to give us time with ours.

Lady Lions Flag Football Team Advances to Area Tournament

Lady Lions Flag Football Team

Advances to Area Tournament

By Samantha DePriest

If you haven’t been to one of our Lady Lions Flag football games yet this season, you will want to come out this Tuesday to our Lions Stadium to watch them in action. Our Lady Lions beat Whitewater 33-6 this past Thursday night which promotes them into the first round Area Tournament on Tuesday, November 14th. Our Lady Lions first match up will be against Creekside High School on Tuesday right here in Lions Stadium. Whitewater High School will play Fayette County High School immediately following and then the winners of both games will go head to head. Let’s pack the stands Lion Nation and cheer these Lady Lions onto a victory!  

We had a chance to sit down with Coach Kayla Freund who has been a part of our Flag Football program since the inception. During the school day, Ms. Freund can be found teaching AP Psychology, General Psychology, and Intro to Healthcare Science in the High School, but after school she leads a team of highly competitive and athletically gifted Lady Lions on the football field in Flag Football in the Fall and Girls Lacrosse in the Spring.

Image by Shannon Dallas

Coach Kayla shares our, “So far the season is going well! It's a whirlwind, so it's almost hard to find the words to sum it up. Because our season is so short, we essentially play about half of our regular season in a two-week span.”

Image by Shannon Dallas

When asked about her vision for the season, Coach Kayla shares “My biggest goal for the remainder of the season is to continue glorifying the Lord in the way our players play, coaches coach, and parents and fans spectate. He has abundantly blessed these athletes with talent and skills, but the way He has shaped their hearts and minds is what separates us from other teams. They play hard and for each other, but it's with grace and humility. We're hoping to make a deep playoff run, but any success we may see is truly a gift from God to be able to glorify Him and be a light to other teams in the process.”

Image by Shannon Dallas

It takes a strong team to grow a program, “We genuinely appreciate the support from the TCS community: from the parents who allow their children to be a part of the team, to the other TCS coaches who share athletes when seasons overlap, to the students who volunteer to be extra hands at practice or announce or film for us and don't get a lot of recognition. We've been able to grow the program a lot in the past few years because there are so many others who sacrifice their time and resources for our sake. It is not lost on us and we are truly grateful for our TCS family.”

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 October. Way to go Lions!!

Anna Aycock

Softball

10/2/23

Anna Aycock is on the Softball team. Anna is the type of player every coach wants to coach. She is willing to do whatever it takes to improve her game and help her teammates win. Anna has stepped up big and made great defensive plays for the team in the outfield which is a new position for her. We are excited to see what else Anna accomplishes as we approach the postseason. 

Avery Ross

Cross Country

10/9/23

Avery is a bright light and an incredibly talented student-athlete! She is the backbone of our Cross Country family/team culture and has been running Cross Country with TCS for 4 years now.  Currently as a freshman, she is leading our Varsity girls team!   

Cody Anderson

Football

10/16/23

Cody Anderson has led the Trinity defense this year on and off the field.  He has 3 blocked punts, 5 sacks, and has averaged 13 tackles per game.  He just received his first offer from Point University.  His older brother, Wyatt, plays offensive line at Western Kentucky and his father, Buck, ran track at West Point.

Jordyn Rawlings

Girls Flag Football

10/30/23

Jordyn led the Lady Lions to two victories last week, scoring 3 touchdowns, 2 pick-6s, and a PAT over the span of two games. She's not only a great scorer, but sets the tempo for defense as well, tacking on several sacks for loss. 

"TCS, Prepare for Lift Off!"

"TCS, Prepare for Lift Off!"

“Trinity launches new aviation program”

By Samantha DePriest

Trinity Christian School consistenly strives for excellence in all areas of growth and development focusing on six main areas including Spiritual Development, Academic Rigor, Professional Development, Campus Upgrades, Performing Arts, and Athletics. Dr. Mark Anthony and our TCS leadership team steadily seek for ways to enhance and expand offerings and opportunities for our students to prepare them to impact tomorrow’s world.

Nolan Thompson had a love of flying from an early age.

“The Trinity Christian School Flight Academy is a remarkable program that stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Nolan Thompson, a cherished student whose love for aviation touched the hearts of many. Made possible through the extraordinary generosity of numerous contributors, this academy will be a thriving hub for aspiring aviators, nurturing their dreams and propelling them toward the skies. With state-of-the-art equipment and a team of seasoned instructors, the TCS Aviation Academy empowers young learners to embrace their passion for flying and turn it into a reality.

Nolan Thompson

The academy's mission is rooted in Nolan's love of aviation and his pursuit of excellence. Students at the academy are not only provided with comprehensive theoretical and practical training but are also instilled with Nolan's values of determination and compassion. As they soar through the skies, these aspiring pilots carry with them the legacy of a young man whose passion continues to inspire and shape their own journeys. The TCS Aviation Academy stands as a living tribute to Nolan Thompson, forever honoring his memory and helping countless others fulfill their dreams of flight.”

While Nolan was in 9th grade at TCS, he shared in a journal entry in his Literature and Composition class about what makes a person a hero. How fitting to hear his own words, “A hero is made by someone who works hard and puts in the effort to go the extra mile, help people, and make someone’s day better. A hero is someone who even though they may not be known or gain anything from it will still do good for the community.…helping others even when there is no reward.”

Nolan’s parents share their heartfelt words imprinted on the marker of where he is laid to rest that says, “Your big heart, caring soul, and funny spirit uplifted everyone around you!” May Nolan’s beautiful life be honored through this generous and impactful gift to TCS that will touch students for generations to come.

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 Aviation Academy

A heartfelt thanks to the Thompson family to help make this program possible at TCS in honor of Nolan’s love and interest in aviation. In a partnership with Middle Georgia State University and experienced pilots, The flight simulator will be installed in the high school for both Dual Enrollment classes as well as an Aviation after school club. TCS is launching the Aviation Academy this coming January 2024.

Middle Georgia State University representatives share during high school Chapel about the Dual Enrollment Aviation Program.

During our high school chapel service on Wednesday morning, our students were blessed with the opportunity to meet three representatives from Middle Georgia State University including Brendan McGuigan and Youna Woo, both flight instructors whom are in the Propel Program in addition to Susan Collins, Academic Advisor for the MGA Dual Enrollment Aviation Program. They are working closely together with pilots Joey Cook, Michael Bugden, and Chris Sweeney to launch this exciting new program at TCS.

(Pictured l to r) Joey Cook, Assistant Head of School Blake Bass, Susan Collins, Youna Woo, Brendan McGuigan, Chris Sweeney, and TCS Director of Donor Services Mark Northcutt.

Excerpt taken from TCS Aviation Academy information:

Certifications

Students are prepared for knowledge exams toward FAA private pilot certifications. Students can then pursue flight time outside of Trinity Christian’s Flight Academy to compete their flight training.

Endorsements

Trinity Christian School offers Flight Academy Endorsements that are added to a student’s transcript upon completion. The endorsement, as well as FAA certifications, offer students a competitive advantage as they apply to elite programs.

Opportunities

TCS Flight Academy requirements include specialized flight courses. These courses include simulators and prepare students to take the FAA written exams. Academy students are involved in the school’s field trips, outside speakers, professional pilot instructions, and aviation-specific services and activities.

Interested students are encouraged to email Brian.Fourman@tcslions.org today to receive more information about this unique and exciting opportunity. Space is limited and the program starts in January 2024. Stay tuned for more details in “Inside the Pride” coming soon.

“One Life, One Choice”

“One Life, One Choice”

National Teen Driver Safety Week

By Samantha DePriest

This past week was National Teen Driver Safety Week. Trinity Christian School partnered with local non-profits and emergency response units to help educate our high school students on the importance of safe driving. Instead of simply sharing the life saving message with our young drivers, various speakers, experiences, and activities were held on campus to engage students so they could truly understand the risks of distracted driving..

“The number one killer of teenagers continues to be car accidents and motor vehicle fatalities.. This is not something we can take lightly, and we are committed to being a part of the solution! During the week of Oct. 16-20, the Trinity high school faculty in partnership with the Abby’s Angels Foundation focused on raising awareness to encourage and challenge students to do all they can to become responsible drivers and make wise decisions while riding in vehicles.” 

Each day of the week our TCS High School leadership team wove the importance of staying alert and focused while driving into the school day. With over 500 students in our high school learning how to drive and riding as passengers with new drivers, it is more important than ever to teach our next generation how they can save their own lives and those of their friends and family. Teen driving statistics are a reminder of the importance of the partnership with families to prepare students for life.

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Abby’s Angels

Abby Bacho

Natalie Bacho, Abby’s Mom and founder of Abby’s Angels, pictured with TCS students.

We were blessed to welcome Natalie Bacho back on campus to share the story of how her family’s life was instantly changed by a distracted teen driver on December 22, 2012. Natalie’s family had just finished a full day of family fun of rollerskating, mass, dinner, and looking at Christmas lights. They were headed back to their home in Newnan when a young man ran a red light because he was texting and driving and hit the Bacho family van. Abby was just nine years old at the time and she was full of life, love, and joy. She was immediately life flighted to a hospital in Atlanta but the injuries from the crash were too much for her little body to survive. Precious Abby entered into heaven on Christmas day.

While Abby’s time on earth was sadly cut short, her legacy and impact on our community continues to live on. Several of Abby’s organs were donated to children in need which saved their lives on Christmas day in 2012. What a tremendous gift for those children and their families to receive. Abby’s story of love and giving continues to touch the lives of hundreds and thousands in our community and around the world. The Bacho family has turned a tragedy into a testimony while helping to change safe driving laws, educate students on safe driving, give away hundreds of dollars in scholarships to students, and much more through the creation of the Abby’s Angels Foundation.

Abby’s Angels Foundation has partnered with TVOC, Teen Vehicle Operations Course, to provide an 8 hour hands-on instruction behind-the-wheel course taught by local police officers. The course is spread over two days for new drivers and their parents to attend together both in a classroom setting and out on the road. The driving course fills up fast and is worth the wait. To learn more about Abby’s Angels Foundation and TVOC, click the buttons below.

Natalie also helped lead activities on campus during National Teen Driver Safety Week for our students. On Friday, October 13th Natalie introduced her friend Mike Lutzenkirchen to the TCS school community. Mike and his wife tragically lost their son in a car crash in June 2014 caused by drunk driving and no seat belts.

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Lutzie 43

On June 29, 2014 Mike Lutzenkirchen’s son Philip was killed in a car crash just weeks after his 23rd birthday. Philip Lutzenkirchen was a football tight end, who played at Auburn University, finishing his career as the school's all-time leading receiver in touchdowns among tight ends, He had everything going for him until he made a choice to ride in a car with a driver who had been drinking that forever changed his family and ultimately ended his life.

The Story of Philip Lutzenkirchen

With God’s help, Philip’s Dad Mike turned a tragedy into a testimony and created the “Lutzie 43 Foundation” to encourage people to “Live like Lutz. Love like Lutz. Learn from Lutz.” Mike spoke to our student body about Philip’s legacy and asked them to consider what legacy they are leading. While football fans know Phillip for his accomplishments on the football field, he was known and remembered for his kindness, generosity and dedication to his community.

Mike taught about the difference between a crash and an accident and how crashes can be prevented by taking “43 Key Seconds” before driving a car. He pleaded with students that “unless you have a job or medical emergency, you should not be on the roadway past midnight.” He encouraged our students to be available to what God has in store for their lives and to give of their treasure, time, talent, and tenderness to those around them. To learn more about Philip’s foundation and scholarships available, click on the button below:

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National Teen Driver Safety Week

Our TCS High School leadership team shared, “Our students were exposed to several different eye-opening experiences this past week. They were encouraged to take pictures and videos with their phones and share memories on the TCS Student Council Instagram page so it could be shared with our community.”

Activities included a Seat Belt Challenge, Coweta County fireman sharing their experience with car crashes, TVOC Representative, Natalie Bacho from Abby’s Angels Foundation sharing Abby’s story and about the Abby’s Angels Scholarship, a Memorial Video of Abby Bacho, prayer time over TCS cars in the parking lot, writing out messages of encouragement on the sidewalks on campus, wearing drunk goggles, obstacle courses to learn how hard it is to drive straight when you are distracted or under the influence, safe driving videos, sign banner and pledge card, and enjoy Abby’s favorite snack - Flamin’ Hot Cheetos.

Students were fully engaged in the experiences and hopefully will remember these important lessons every time they get into a car. The student body also spent time worshipping together in the stadium and praying for both the Bacho and Lutzenkirchen family’s. May God continue to be glorified in these heartfelt efforts of the families of Abby and Philip who left this earth too soon. We will be forever grateful for them sharing their stories to inspire our students.

“One, two, three, four, Marching Lions bring the ROAR!

“One, two, three, four,

Marching Lions bring the ROAR!”

By Samantha DePriest

We have heard others say that our Friday Night Lights experience in Sharpsburg is unlike anything they have experienced anywhere else. TCS Performing Arts Director Mr. Tim Hurt had a vision years ago to bring the sights, sounds, and performances to our varsity football games and the quest to assemble the Marching Lions began. With God’s help and tremendous support from our incredible TCS parents, Mr. Hurt has assembled a phenomenal team to help teach the love of music and the love of Jesus to our students. Lions and visiting teams witness this beautiful band family in action every Friday night as they put on amazing productions both in the stands and on the field.

Mr. Tim Hurt shares the timeline from the inception of our Marching Lions until now. Humble beginnings was where it all started with a Middle School only Drum Corps launching in January of 2019. Later that calendar year in the Fall of 2019, TCS added a High School Drum Corps to the Friday Night lights team. In March of 2021, our TCS Marching Band without formations took the field during half time of our varsity football games and in the Fall of 2022, our first year of full marching band began.

TCS Marching Lions Wind Ensemble

TCS Marching Lions Percussion

Mrs. Katie Palmer joined the team this year and leads our Wind Ensemble, which are instruments requiring air to make sounds, including the piccolo, clarinet, trumpet, alto sax, tenor sax, horn, bass clarinet, euphonium, and trombone. She also assists Mr. Hurt leading our Percussion group including cymbals, tenors, snares, and bass drums. Mrs. Palmer brings energy and experience to the team. She herself has been a trumpet player since 6th grade, a drum major in high school, performed in the marching band that marched in the Macy’s Day parade, and even played in the Atlanta Symphony Junior orchestra. She has led worship both at Trinity Church and in the Dominican Republic where her and her husband were in full time ministry as missionaries before moving back to the states with their 5 children. You may recognize her name as this is her second year teaching trumpet lessons to students at TCS in the Music Arts Academy and she also assists with 5th grade band and Middle School band.

Mrs. Palmer shares, “Music has always been a passion of mine and a part of my life. I am passionate about teaching, training, and equipping students not only to love music but most importantly about the love of Christ.” She goes on to share, “Music can change your life and teach you discipline, dedication, and how to become a leader.” Mrs. Palmer is so proud of the Marching Lions and says, “Our students positive attitudes and desire to raise the bar of excellence is truly the key to their success.”

TCS Drum Major Kylie Beckman leads our Marching Lions at a home football game.

To help cultivate leaders, create opportunities, and further develop abilities in our students, new roles are being added each year. This year student Kylie Beckman is serving as our 1st ever Drum Major for our TCS Marching Lions. The family atmosphere and culture allows for students to learn how to lead their peers on the field while remaining friends off the field because of a mutual respect for one another. Lastly, Mrs. Palmer shares, “One great thing about TCS is students are encouraged to participate in multiple activities in addition to Marching Lions. We have students who also participate in Archery, Track & Field, Swimming, Drama club, and eSports just to name a few. We strongly encourage students take advantage of all TCS has to offer and push outside their comfort zone to try new things.”

Band Parent, Lea Selleck, shares “Band just has a different heart than the world around it.  Music brings us together in a unique way. When you make music together and create something fun and beautiful, it’s bonding.  I’ve seen kids from our band and other bands shower each other with compliments and support.   They have a ritual of greeting the guest marching band and our kids fight for the opportunity to be on the “welcome team’.”. We recently performed at the Coweta County Band Exhibition where we were invited to perform our show along with much larger, competitive bands in the area.   You wouldn’t believe the spirit these kids have for each other.   They work so hard to create “moments” on the field and wow do they respond to each others’ performances.   As a band begins they are absolutely silent with anticipation.   During performances they are looking for the “moments”, and when they happen the crowd goes wild.   It might be in a difficult formation or in a drum break or when the color guard splits their single flags into two as a little added surprise, but they go wild for each other.   This to me is a God moment.   It’s when we celebrate each other and our hard work.   It’s when we encourage each other even if we’re in competition.   I think God smiles on them.   It brings to mind the verse that says, “Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity. 1 Timothy 4:12 (NIV) 

Lower School students loved cheering on the Marching Lions outside their classroom window.

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Color Guard

The first TCS Color Guard in 2021.

This is year three of our TCS Color guard led by Coach Kim Pinkerton with help from Assistant Coach Kristy Goss. TCS Color guard practices two times a week at school and on their own at home. The team performs and travels with our varsity football team. On average, they perform three songs lasting about 8 minutes during the half-time of every game, home and away. TCS Colorguard also performs at the TCS Homecoming Parade and at the Coweta County Band Exhibition each September. During the Exhibition, local bands from ECHS, Newnan, Northgate, and Troup County high schools perform for one another. It is an encouraging and supportive environment where industry judges share feedback with the teams.

First year color guard student Shelby Sheffield performs during a football game.

Student Shelby Sheffield is the youngest member of the color guard and shares, “My experience has been very exciting so far as being a part of the Marching Lions color guard. I feel that I can be myself and not worry about what others think about me. So far it has been a memorable experience for me from warming up to actually performing the show. I have been having an amazing experience with the girls on the color guard and with everyone in the band. I am so very grateful for the directors and Coach Kim for teaching me all I know, and pushing me to my potential. It is an honor for me as the only middle schooler on the color guard and the youngest of the band to be a part of the band.”  

TCS Color guard is open for 7th - 12th grade girls and requires attending two practices a week at school. Color guard students who are in high school earn varsity letters and pins for years of participating. Coach Kim shares, “Color guard is a wonderful way to get involved. It is who are open to young ladies eager to learn something new. And since it is new to everyone because no one has ever done color guard, it’s a wonderful way to be involved in our Marching Lions.  Our try-outs and parent interest meeting will be held this Spring with information in the Performing Arts sections of weekly newsletter “Inside the Pride”. Once you make the team, TCS hosts a Marching Lions summer band camp each July. 

Mrs. Vanessa Todhunter, TCS parent of Brie Todhunter who has been a part of our TCS Color Guard for three years shares “Thank you for taking the time to shed light on our Marching Lions who practice countless hours in the extreme heat and perform shows and cheer on our football team in the extreme cold! I’m so very proud of these kids and their dedication and commitment.”

Coach Kim Pinkerton goes on to share, ”I love that the teams have such comradery and support each other. It is sucsh a great atmosphere that I have never experienced at other schools. Our Varsity Cheer team has been Marching Lions biggest cheerleaders - they are so supportive.” 

Students who are interested in learning more about joining the Marching Lions may email TIm.hurt@tcslions.org directly and for TCS Color Guard Kim.pinkerton@tcslions.org for more information. Informational meetings will be held this Spring on campus. Stay tuned for more details in the Performing Arts section of our weekly newsletter “Inside the Pride”.

2023 Color Guard - Front Row (L to R):  Shelby Sheffield, Audrey Williams, Gracie Little, Addison Davis

Back Row (L to R):  Rosi Bowling, Sophie Selleck, Brie Todhunter, Taryn Johnson, Tess Adkins

(Image by Kyle Beckman)

Trinity celebrates Volleyball All Region

Trinity Celebrates Volleyball

All Region Nominations

By Samantha DePriest

All Region Award winners students (l to r) Elyse Wisely, Lily Floyd, and Paisley Hayes.

(Image by Brandy Floyd)

We are thrilled to announce that student athletes Lily Floyd, Paisley Hayes, and Elyse Wisely all received nominations for All Region in GHSA Class 4A Region 2 for the 2023 Varsity Volleyball season. Elyse Wisely also was named Co-Defensive Player of the Year.

Junior Lily Floyd, Setter, is ranked #1 in the region with 609 assists and #2 in aces. LIly has been chosen as Player of the Match twice this season. Lily is also involved with Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) at TCS.

Senior Paisley Hayes, Middle, is ranked #1 in the region for the Class of 2024 in 4A and 16th in State of Georgia. Paisley has been chosen as Player of the Match twice this season. Paisley serves iin NHS, BETA, Student Council, and has played club volleyball for 575 as captain.

Junior Elyse Wisely is ranked #3 in the Area and top 100 in the state as a Libero. Most recently, she was nominated for Player of the Match in the the Starr’s Mill game earlier this week and also chosen as Co-Defensive Player of the Year Elyse is also involved in Student Council, BETA Club, NHS, and Discipleship group at TCS.

Most recently, our Lady Lions beat Whitewater in 3 sets and lost to Starr’s Mill in 4 sets. Trinity Christian School is going into the Playoff’s as #2 in the region. Brandy Floyd, TCS Mom and photographer, shares her time and talent once again with us in the photo album from the matches below.

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TCS Volleyball

1st round of state playoffs

Date: Tuesday, October 17th

Time: 5:30pm

Location: TCS Gym on Main Campus

Per GHSA policy, tickets must be purchased. TCS Event Passes are not accepted.

Ticket Link: https://gofan.co/event/1168286?schoolId=GA72962 

Tickets: $8.00

Theme: Purple

“When We Say Trinity, You Say Lions!”

“When We Say Trinity, You Say Lions!”

By Samantha DePriest

The important role of a cheerleader is to support the football team and motivate our 12th man (our fans in the stand). They are one of most crucial components of our Friday Night Lights and help elevate the experience for our Lion Nation. Whether rain or shine, hot or cold, these girls always have smiles on their faces and bring such joy to our sidelines. They put in hours of hard work and practice while overcoming injuries to get every cheer perfect. We applaud our cheerleaders for all they do for our school community and are so grateful for the opportunity to shine the spotlight on them!

Trinity Christian School has four cheer squads including our 5th/6th grade, Middle School, JV, and Varsity cheerleader teams. These four teams help to create a strong sense of Lion pride. Each cheerleader serves as a connection between our fans and our football teams. Their energy and enthusiasm not only help our boys to play better and boost morale but they serve to unify our school with all they do in the days leading up to game night. Their connection with our Marching Lions is a special one as well and frequently you will hear them cheering for our talented musicians in addition to our student athletes. It truly takes a village to show “how we do it in Sharpsburg” as Varsity Football Head Coach Kenny Dallas often says.

5th/6th Grade Cheer Squad

5th/6th grade Cheer Squad

(Image by D & R Photos)

Our 5th/6th grade cheer squad may be the youngest of the bunch but they sure are mighty. Head Coach Mrs. Robin Witherington shares, “We are so proud of these girls. They work so hard and are great performers. They have enjoyed cheering for the football players, their families and friends. I am so excited to see what the future hols for these TCS Lions cheerleaders. It’s a great time to be a Lion!”

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Middle School Cheer Squad

Middle School Cheer Squad

(Image by D & R Photos)

“We’ve had such a great year! This is such a talented group of girls.  They have worked so hard and performed at such a high level this season.  While we’ve been focusing on sideline performances and cheering on the Lions,. We’ve also been working on a half-time routine that the girls are so excited to perform for the crowd this week.  We feel very blessed to get to be their coaches,” shares Cheer Coaches Cynthia Gregory and Heather Caruthers.

Our Middle School Cheer Squad is led by a leadership team with captains Liv Ballard and Bette Wise and co-captains Nolyn Filley and Gabriella Williams. Chaplains Ava Grace Knowles, Emma Fabean, Helena Willis, and 7th grade representative and Chaplain Gabbi Phillips.

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JV Cheer Squad

JV Cheer Squad

(Image by D & R Photos)

“The JV Cheer squad is a great group of girls that work very hard to be the best they can be. As I always say to them “One more time”. I am very fortunate to be these girls coach.” shares our JV Cheer Squad head coach Marcel Ousley.

The JV cheer squad is led by team captain Payton Keroack and co-captains Abby McBurnett and Campbell McInvale. Many of the cheerleaders also serve the school on Student Council as well.

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Varsity Cheer Squad

Varsity Cheer Squad

(Image by D & R Photos)

Our Varsity High School Cheer Squad Head Coach Gale Hickman shares, “What an amazing season the varsity cheer squad is having! We have a large squad of 28 girls this year and they have all come together and made a lot of amazing things happen. We also have two senior managers who have just worked great together and been awesome for our team.”

“As their coach, I couldn’t be more proud of their dedication to the team. I love how much work they put in to executing the stunts. They leave some days with bumps and bruises, but I can always count on them to be there and ready to go again the next day. We have had an emotional year with so many of the girls being close friends with Natalya and also having 17 seniors. I can’t express how much these seniors will be missed! I am so proud to have been their Coach.”

The Varsity Cheer squad is led by captains Emerson Reifscheider and Emily Harris, co-captains SaraBeth Odom and Allie Witherington, and dance captains Lauren Wilmoth and Emelia McBurnett.

Our cheerleaders would love for our fans in the stands to join in during Friday Night Lights and have shared two of the most favorite cheers below that require lots of crowd participation from our Lion Nation. Our next home game is Friday, October 27th against Troup County and the theme is Western wear. Let’s Go Lions!!

Lower School Adds 3rd Grade Worship Team to Chapel Services

Lower School Adds 3rd Grade

Worship Team to Chapel Services

By Samantha DePriest

It’s no surprise to anyone that Trinity Christian School is always looking for ways to connect the hearts of our students to the hearts of the Father. TCS strives to consistently provide students opportunities to learn more about the gifts and talents God has given them and how to use them to be a blessing to others. This year Lower School started a 3rd. Grade Worship Team to further grow and develop leaders among our students.

(pictured l to r) Third grade Worship Team: Caroline Wood, Connor Stewart, Hadley Brooks Gumm, and Della Jordan led worship on Wednesday.

This opportunity is available to all interested third graders and the only requirement is to have a heart for worship and be willing to stand on the stage and sing. The heart of this worship team is simply to be an example of how to worship. This past Wednesday our first team of 3rd grade worship leaders Caroline Wood, Connor Stewart, Hadley Brooks Gumm, and Della Jordan led worship confidently for over 300 hundred 1st through 3rd graders.

Lower School Principal Mrs. Randolph shared, “I consider our third graders to be the leaders of our Lower School. I am excited to provide an opportunity where they can shine God’s light before others.” Mrs. Gina Smeal, TCS second grade teacher, shares, “So proud of my kiddos up there! Way to go 3rd graders! Your 2nd grade teacher thinks you are pretty special!”

TCS Mom Jennifer Jordan shares, “We are so proud of our daughter up there leading! This is such a special opportunity. I never expected her to say that she would like to be a leader. It is not something in her comfort zone so we are thankful to see God working in her life through experiences like this that we couldn’t provide for her otherwise. Thank you for the. opportunity for her to grow in spiritual leadership.”

TCS Inducts BETA Club & NHS students

TCS Inducts 2023 BETA Club & NHS Students

By Samantha DePriest

This past week Trinity Christian School celebrated the induction of our high school students into two distinguished leadership organizations BETA Club and National Honor Society (NHS).. Our families gathered together in the Student Center on Monday evening to honor these students for their many achievements in the classroom as they begin a. new chapter of leadership development.

2023 TCS National Honor Society Inductees

(Image by Christy Faircloth)

National Honor Society (NHS)

(pictured l to r) NHS Inductees Kylie Beckman, Preston Ziobro, and Isaiah Ware.

(image submitted by Darlene Ware)

National Honor Society (NHS) “stands as a beacon of intellectual rigor, a celebration of service, a paragon of leadership, and a champion of character.” Trinity Christian School started NHS on campus back in 2009 as yet another way for our students to develop skills that will prepare them for life after TCS.. For more than a century NHS has focused on the four pillars being Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character. “These principles are transformative keys that unlock potential, enhancing every student’s educational journey, and ultimately empowering them to make profound, enduring contributions to our world.”

TCS moms Audrey Beckman, Page Ziobro, and Darlene Ware all agree that their students (pictured above) friendships are very important. Mrs. Beckman shares, “My daughter Kylie has been friends with fellow inductees Preston and Isaiah since 5th grade. I love the close friendships she has been able to form at TCS.”

NHS TCS staff liaison Mrs. Christy Faircloth shares, “All new candidates this year had a 4.0 weighted GPA or higher and are enrolled in honors/AP/Dual enrollment level coursework. Weighted GPA's and courses taken are reviewed over the summer and invitations to apply are sent to each student that qualifies in August. This incoming class is quite impressive. The NHS strives to grow the members in Service, Leadership, Character and Scholarship. NHS provides opportunities for leadership and character building within the school as well as the community. We are looking forward to an amazing year!”

NHS students Anderson Embry and Samuel Burgess

(Image by Cathy Anderson)

Mrs. Faircloth goes on to share “We were able to collect and donate $1,636.42 in coins to the Coweta Pregnancy Center. The donation will go toward more than 1,000 families receiving services from their facility.  They provide vital resources, counseling, and education to empower women and families facing unexpected pregnancies. Their mission is built on the belief that every life is precious, and they strive to make a positive impact by offering practical assistance and emotional support during a challenging time in people's lives.”

NHS Inductee Anderson Embry shares, “It is such an honor to be recognized for my service, scholarship, leadership, and character by being inducted into the National Honor Society. TCS is preparing me for life after high school. I will be more than ready to apply to competitive universities next fall.” Anderson’s Mom, Cathy Embry, shares “TCS helps prepare our children for the next steps in life. They are prepared academically and spiritually for life after high school. NHS is just one the many ways for students to be recognized for servant leadership and academics.”

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BETA Club

National Beta Club is the largest independent, non-profit, educational youth organization in America and has prepared students to become leaders for more than 80 years. TCS values opportunities for our students to grow in their servant leadership and since 2009 has offered it as a way for students to get involved and learn the skills necessary to make a positive impact in the community around them. Whether serving as part of the leadership team for BETA Club or as part of the club as a whole, our students are learning valuable skills that can be applied to life after TCS. Requirements to be a part of the BETA Club at TCS are just that the student maintains a 3.75 GPA.

BETA Club students Emma Wargofcak, Kathryn Andrews, and Hayley Sayer at BETA inductions.

(Image by Tammy Sayer)

BETA Club Staff Liaison Mrs. Val Adams shares, “The National Beta Club chapter at TCS champions scholarship, leadership and service among its members. The goal of our particular club is to saturate Trinity's campus with service that supports and helps the students, faculty and families of Trinity.“

Mrs. Adams goes on to share, “Over 80 new students were inducted on Monday night to add to the already large group of servant leaders. With projects such as the annual Veteran's Dinner and various projects across the campus, students live out their theme verse for 2023-2024 - Matthew 7:12 - “Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you.’ This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets. We are excited about this new year of building leaders and faithfully serving TCS!”  

BETA Inductee SeAnna Johnson and Mrs. Val Adams

BETA Inductee Emma Wargofcak shares, “I am excited to be a part of Beta Club and help serve others throughout school and in life. In Matthew 5:16 it says "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

BETA Inductee Hayley Sayer shares, “I am looking forward to serving others, and being a role model for younger kids. “

The motto of BETA Club is “Let us lead by serving others”. BETA Club is just one of the many ways Trinity Christian School seeks to accomplish the mission of preparing today’s student to impact tomorrow’s world by educating minds for cultural engagement, equipping hearts for character development, and empowering hands for compassionate service.

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 September. Way to go Lions!!

Addie Moore

9/4/23

Addie is on the Varsity Cheer team and a Senior this year. Addie is an all-around cheerleader, she always comes to games and practice with a positive attitude and a smile on her face. She is always willing to step in and try any position. She is one of our team chaplains and handles it all with grace.

Phoenix Moss

9/11/23

Phoenix is a Senior on the Varsity Football team. Phoenix has become a leader by example already this season. Phoenix is a game-changer when he is on the field no matter what side of the ball. In week 2, Moss had 19 carries for 178 yards, 2 TDS, and 1 2-point conversion. This Navy Commit leads by example in how he works at practice and it shows up in his gameplay. 

Preston Ziobro

9/18/23

Preston is a Senior on the Varsity Cross Country team. This is Preston's 7th year running XC for TCS.  2 weeks ago at the LCA Invitational Preston not only won the entire race in a massive field but also set the TCS course record at that venue.  He is truly a champion in every sense of the word!

Lily FloyD

9/25/23

Lily is a Junior on the Varsity Volleyball team. Over the last 4 matches, Lily has led our team in aces (9), has a solid hitting percentage (.231%), 4 total blocks, 81 assists, and is 2nd in digs with (24). Lily is our team 'glue' being the setter and she's done a great job of being the steady, calm, cool, and collected teammate her team can rely on every match.  

Chick-fil-A Leader Academy Build Food Relief Boxes

Chick-Fil-A Leader Academy Build Food Relief Boxes

By Samantha DePriest

Our Chick fil-A Leader Academy made up of twenty-four junior and senior TCS students visited Midwest Food Bank in Peachtree City recently. During their time there, they served together by preparing food relief boxes for neighboring states recovering from storm damage. Mr. JP Weaver, Chick-fil-A Leader Academy staff liaison, shares, “Our goal with Chick fil-A Leader Academy is to serve and inspire others while learning to become wise leaders at a young age.” The Bible tells us ‘Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, on faithful servants of God’s grace in various forms.’ 1 Peter 4:10

Our students helped support a 6-week project to build 920 boxes of food relief. These efforts will assist in distributing to families in the community of Southeast Kentucky. While at the Food Bank, they learned more about the inner workings of how they acquire and distribute food. Midwest Food Bank serves hundreds of local agencies and non-profits right here in Georgia. All of the food they receive is free of charge and they give it all away free of charge. Former Midwest Food Bank Executive Director Wil Garner often shared with volunteers, “There is not a food shortage problem in our country, there is a food distribution problem.” With only a handful of staff members, they rely 100% on volunteers to sort and distribute food each week as the shelves shrink and swell with healthy food and beverages. If you and your family would like to be a part of this mission, volunteer opportunities can be found when searching the Peachtree City location of Midwest Food Bank.

CFA Leader Academy Team serving at Midwest Food Bank

“It’s amazing to witness our students serve our community off campus during the school day. Each student stepped up to use their God given talents and gifts as faithful servants. From the time you step into the front lobby, to serving inside the warehouse, the tremendous impact felt at Midwest Food Bank is incredible. Additionally, standing alongside the TCS students who represent the CFA Leadership class is full of priceless moments. I am grateful for this experience that involved packing thousands of water bottles to be shipped off to a community in need out of state.” - CFA Leadership Staff Liaison Mr. JP Weaver 

"I love how through this class, we have been given the special opportunity to be able to give back to our community through projects such as serving at Midwest Food Bank today." - Jack Strealy

"It felt great to have the ability to help others nationwide, and it's amazing to see the amount of work that can be done when you get a group of motivated kids together to serve those in need." - Preston Langford 

"We loved being able to serve at Midwest Food Bank as a way to give back to the community. This was a great opportunity to shine the light of Christ while helping those around us! We can't wait to see what God does through this ministry!" - Mary Kathryn White & Cacie Cutright 

Opportunities like these for our students to collaborate and serve together are what our mission at TCS is all about. Teaching these world changers to have hearts of gratitude and be mindful of the needs of others is a gift to future generations at TCS and to our world. To learn more about Midwest Food Bank in Peachtree and the many ways that you and your family can serve together, please visit their website at: Midwest Food Bank

2023 TCS Homecoming Court

2023 TCS Homecoming COurt

By Samantha DePriest

The 2023 HOCO Week at Trinity Christian School has come and gone but the memories of one of our favorite weeks of the year will remain with us. Each year our Homecoming Court representatives are selected by the high school student body as leaders among their peers. The court representatives are a wonderful group of students who are all very involved in both in school and extra curricular activities as well as in their communities and churches. Each of them represent TCS very well and serve as excellent role models for our student body.

2023 TCS Homecoming Queen, Caroline McPherson, and King, Phoenix Moss.

(Image by Oscar Camejo)

On Friday night at the Homecoming football game, our king and queen were crowned and we couldn’t be more excited to share that seniors Caroline McPherson and Phoenix Moss were honored as the 2023 TCS Homecoming king and queen.

Caroline McPherson, 2023 TCS Homecoming queen, is excelling in a rigorous academic schedule in AP and advanced classes. She is very involved in both Varsity cheer and tennis. She holds leadership positions in Student Council and BETA Club. She also is a member of the National Honor Society. Caroline will be attending college in the fall to major in Finance and Communications. Nancy McPherson, Caroline’s Mom shares “Caroline is blessed to call TCS home! She is surrounded by teachers, mentors, and friends who encourage her walk with Christ.!” Varsity Cheer coach Gale Hickman shares, “We are so excited to see our sweet Caroline crowned as Homecoming Queen this year. If you don’t know Caroline, you’re missing out. She is so deserving of this crown and the opportunity to represent Trinity. She is kind, caring, and most of all loves the Lord. We could not be more proud of her.”

Phoenix Moss, 2023 TCS Homecoming king, maintains excellent grades in the classroom and competes on both our Varsity football and track teams. He has already committed to the Naval Academy. Mrs. Layne Moss, Phoenix’s stepmom shares, “Just more confirmation that he is where he is supposed to be. He’s in a place where he is valued and loved. That’s what we pray for. We are incredibly happy for him.” Varsity Football Coach Josh Henry shares, “Phoenix is a guy who hasn’t been at TCS a super long time, but he has made a great impact. I’m blessed enough to get to have a 1 on 1 relationship with Phoenix through being his position coach on the football team, but if there was something I would want the Trinity community to know, it would be that Phoenix Moss is much more than the incredible athlete you see on the field on Friday nights in the Fall and on the track in Spring. Phoenix is a fierce competitor that puts others before himself, and truly carry’s the Joy of the Lord with him everyday. He always has a smile on his face and leads by example. Phoenix personifies everything Trinity is about with his athletic accomplishments, academic success, incredible character, and constant pursuit of growing in his Faith. I consider it my honor to have gotten the opportunity to coach and know Phoenix Moss over the last few years because I am a better person our school is a better place for him being there. That is why he is a great representative of Trinity as the 2023 Homecoming King.”

2023 Homecoming Court Representatives

(Image by Oscar Camejo)

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2023 TCS Homecoming Court

2023 TCS HOCO Court

(Image by Shannon Bragg)

A special thank you to TCS Mom, Brandy Floyd, for graciously sharing her time and talent with us in capturing these images below of our Homecoming Student Representatives and their family members on Homecoming night.

Also, a special thank you to Shannon Dallas, TCS Mom and wife of Coach Kenny Dallas, who joyfully supports our TCS Football program by capturing all the sweet moments both on the sidelines and on the field of all of our Friday Night Lights.

And lastly, thank you to one of our many amazing student photographers Sophomore Genna Rinkenberger who is often found on the sidelines getting all those great shots during TCS Athletic events. To view more of Genna’s photographs of TCS sporting events, follow her on Instagram: 📷 g.photo3

Taylor Clark,

Freshman

I have been at TCS since 7th grade. I am involved in Trinity Sports Medicine, the school play, Student Council, volunteering at my church, and I play soccer. What I love about Trinity Christian School is the community of Christians building each other up to be more like Christ.

Luciana Arango,

Sophomore

I have been at TCS for 13 years (pre k 3 and up). I am involved in theater, tennis and I serve as the 10th grade Student Council Officer. I love clubs at Trinity where everyone gets to come together to find community in something we love.

Cate Byars,

Junior

This is my first year at TCS! I am involved in TCS Volleyball and I plan to try out for golf. Some things I love about TCS are the close connection you grow with god, your peers, and teachers, the amazing admin that you can talk to easily, and just the overall experience of a smaller school since I came from a school with over 3,000 kids.

Mary Kathryn White,

JUNIOR

I have been at TCS since Pre K 3.  I am involved in Student Council, Beta Club, NHS, I participate in Track & Field, and am heavily involved in 220 youth ministry at SonRise Baptist Church. (I highly encourage anyone to visit!) What I love about TCS is how loving and encouraging the staff is. It is obvious that their main goal is to help you as a student, but most importantly as a believer, I will forever be thankful for that!

Caroline McPherson,

Senior

I have been at TCS since 10th grade. I am involved in Varsity Cheer, Varsity Tennis, Beta Club, and Student Council. I would be honored to be chosen as Homecoming Queen. To be chosen by my peers and friends to serve on the court has been one of the most humbling experiences of my highschool career. I truly love coming to school, meeting new friends, growing closer to old friends, learning from my teachers, and hopefully serving as a positive role model to underclassmen. To be selected as Homecoming Queen, confirms that I have made a positive impression on the school I so dearly love. Serving on the court and being selected as your 2023 Homecoming Queen would be the honor of a lifetime.

Gabby Mims,

Senior

I have attended TCS since 9th grade. I am involved in Beta Club, Varsity volleyball, and Basketball management. I want to be queen because I want to inspire younger girls to be confident in their skin and know that they can do anything they put their minds to. And I would like to thank God for believing in me even when I didn't think I was capable of accomplishing something so significant.

Molly New,

Senior

I have been at TCS since 10th grade.I am involved in soccer, and I am also the cheer manager.

I would like to be crowned queen, because it would be such an amazing opportunity to represent my school for the girls. It would also be so fun to wear a sparkly tiara.

Braelin Patterson,

Senior

I have been at Trinity since the 5th grade. I am involved in Student council, beta club, Chick-fil-a leadership and National Honor Society. I would like to be crowned homecoming queen because I love trinity and I want to represent my school. It has been a blessing to attend Trinity for almost 8 years. Our school has gifted me life long friends, amazing teachers, and an opportunity to strengthen my relationship with Jesus. For these reasons it would be an honor to be crowned homecoming queen.

Jordyn Rawlings,

Senior

I have been at TCS since Freshman year. I am involved in Soccer, flag football, Sports Medicine, FCA, and Beta Club. I would like to be crowned  Queen because it would be an honor to represent the class of 2024 and a fun memory to have from senior year. #golions

Issy Vasquez, Senior

I have been at TCS since my freshman year. I have been involved in student council, beta club, national honors society, lacrosse, and cheer. I'm so honored to be nominated as a representative for this school and I feel blessed to be given the opportunity. Trinity has played such a big role in shaping me into the person I am today and has prepared me to stay strong in my faith after high school. So I am very grateful to be able to take part in this tradition and applaud my peers for their love and dedication to God and this community!

Connor DePriest,

Senior

I have been at TCS since 1st grade. I have played Cross Country, Basketball, Football, Men's Volleyball, and Soccer. I have also served in BETA Club, Student Council, Discipleship groups, Chick-fil-A Leader Academy, and on the Coweta Community Foundation. It is an honor to be nominated among my friends to serve on HOCO Court and it would really be an honor to be voted King.

Carter Lucas,

Senior

I have been at TCS for 15 years. I am involved in Student council as co-chairman of the spirit team, varsity football team manager, boys volleyball team, ambassador for chick fil a leadership academy. I would like to be crowned king because I have always loved this school since I first started coming here 15 years ago. I would try to the best of my abilities to represent the school well if I were to be king. It would be an honor and privilege if I were to be voted king.

PHOENIX MOSS,

Senior

I have been at TCS since the second semester of sophomore year. So I’ve been here for a year and half not counting this semester right now. The extracurricular activities I am involved in are football and track and field. I feel that being crowned King would be a great honor, and I believe that God has blessed me with the opportunity to be on the homecoming court. As one of the only African American males on the court, I would like to represent my school in a positive and impactful way. Additionally, I hope to set an example for other Trinity students and demonstrate how a Christian individual should behave.

Will Owens,

Senior

I have been at TCS since the third grade. I am involved in Varsity Baseball. I would like to be crowned King because it would be a fun memory to look back on. It would be cool to represent my school in a way that not a lot of people get to do.

Drake Price,

Senior

I have been at Trinity since 1st grade. I am involved in Volleyball, discipleship groups, golf and basketball. I want to be King because it shows that being a Christian and being a follower of God isn’t a bad thing and that being a Christian isn’t going to hurt you. It might lose you a few friends but in the end Jesus is worth everything. And we need to get to a point where Christianity is what people want to do instead of running away from it. So we need to continue that mission, and I plan on doing that.

Jackson RIce,

Senior

I have been at TCS since sixth grade. I am involved in both Track and Field and Swimming at Trinity. I also am the owner of Rapid Shine Mobile Detailing where I detail cars. I would like to be crowned King because I believe I accurately represent what trinity stands for and I look good in gold.

Choosing Joy in the Storms

Choosing Joy in the Storms

By Samantha DePriest

A message of hope and of finding joy in the storms was shared during this past Wednesday’s High School Chapel led by principal Mrs. Jones. September is also Sepsis Awareness month and our high school student body was encouraged to make a $5 donation and wear black and red on Wednesday to show support and raise money for TCS student Natalya Manhertz. Together they raised $3,560.00 dollars and a donor matched it dollar for dollar for a grand total of $7,120.00. Every dollar given will go directly to support Natalya in acquiring necessary medical and daily life items.

TCS Senior Natalya Manhertz was life-flighted to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA) hospital this past May after she had a typical case of strep throat that turned into a very serious infection. Natalya spent over 100 days in ICU battling Sepsis. She has undergone numerous surgeries to remove parts of both of her arms and legs. She is now at Scottish Rite receiving extensive rehabilitation and working hard to get to come home and come back to school.

Mrs. Jones shared the importance of building a firm foundation to help us when we experience storms in life because we know that there will be storms. We are either in the middle of a storm, just finishing a storm, or the storm is brewing. Storms can affect us in multiple ways whether our health, relationships, families, emotions, and spiritual life. They can cause us to feel uncertain and overwhelmed. Mrs. Jones reminded our students that there is one simple thing we can do to help us weather the storm… “We can worship. When we lift our eyes from our circumstances and focus on praise and worship, it helps to shift our focus.” Natalya is experiencing a storm greater than we could ever imagine but her Faith is strong and her focus remains on God.

Mrs. Jones shared how the book of Psalms is helpful for our souls while in the storms and in fact it was written by people in the storms of life. When we are facing difficult times, we can go straight to the Bible and rely on the Word. We are reminded that we are not alone as the truth speaks light, hope, and life to our souls. We can praise God in the midst of the storms, troubles, and tough times and ask God to help us to trust Him.

Sepsis Awareness Month

On May 8th, Natalya Manhertz was hospitalized after having strep throat that turned into Sepsis. She went from a thriving 17 year old high school student finishing up her junior year to becoming a quadruple amputee. Instead of her days being filled with all the things that senior girls get to experience, she spent over 3 months in the ICU and spends hours each day with her care team of physical therapists, nurses, and doctors in recovery and rehabilitation. Taking the time to learn about the four signs of Sepsis is more important than ever.

Mrs. Jones shared heartfelt sentiments about Natalya that despite her battles, “God spared her life. Her story is not done yet. God is still writing her story. We need to continue to pray for truth, strength, and wisdom from God.”

One of Natalya’s favorite songs is “Look Up Child” by Lauren Daigle. Mrs. Jones played it for the student body to lean in and reflect on the lyrics. The words of the song are filled with hope, provision, and encouragement.

Where are You now
When darkness seems to win?
Where are You now
When the world is crumbling?

Oh I, I-I-I, I hear You say
I hear You say

Look up child, ayy

Where are You now (where are You?)
When all I feel is doubt?
Oh, where are You now
When I can't figure it out?

You're not threatened by the war
You're not shaken by the storm
I know You're in control
Even in our suffering
Even when it can't be seen
I know You're in control

In closing, Mrs. Jones encouraged our students and staff to surround themself with family, church, Godly friends, and TCS family. She suggested writing scripture on sticky notes as a reminder that God is in control. “By directing our gaze away from the storm and on to our heavenly Father, we are reminded that we are never alone and He is with us carrying us through the storms.” And in the faith filled words of Natalya’s Mom “His ways are higher than ours”. We love you Natalya!! God’s got you!