Eagle Eye 1-22-2017

January 22, 2017

And a Child Shall Lead Them
It’s been an interesting workweek. It began with our annual remembrance of a man who urged us to “never succumb to the temptation of bitterness.” It ended on Friday with the inauguration of a man who was the victor in what has been described as the most bitter election battle in modern history. One of these men has ideas about how to make America great again; the other had ideas about making America great to begin with, namely by embracing ALL of her sons and daughters with justice and equality. The contrasts and comparisons are endless and since Dr. King is no longer with us, we are left to speculate how he might engage the nation during this most challenging of times. One thing is for certain; Mr. Trump is now President of a United States that somehow seems less united than ever. Whether he earned your vote or not, if you are a follower of Christ, God expects you to remember him in prayer. That’s certainly what I’m doing. On the days when my own work seems overwhelming, and I confess to having those days, I consider the challenges our nation’s leader must face and suddenly, my burden feels a bit lighter. I am praying that God will surround Mr. Trump with wise counsel and empower him to lead us in ways that bring healing and hope.

And speaking of prayer, it’s been an interesting week for that as well. Weekly chapel services have been a part of our school’s DNA since birth. These messages are most often led by ministerial staff from our parent church, Mt. Bethel UMC, but this week, both our lower school and upper school chapel services were conceived and led by students. Fifth grader, Parker, shared a message from the book of Daniel. Citing the familiar story of Daniel and the lion’s den, she reminded her young parishioners that God is always faithful, even, and maybe especially, during times of difficulty. Six miles up the road on our North Campus, ninth grader, Elizabeth, shared a compelling and timely word about the importance of avoiding vile language, a familiar challenge for children of this age. With uncommon vulnerability, she shared her own struggles in this area before pointing herself and her peers to relevant passages of scripture including these words of conviction from James, “Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.” Both girls did an exceptional job and as their headmaster, I couldn’t be more proud. How many of us at the age of 10 or 14 would have volunteered to prepare and share such a message with hundreds of peers and teachers looking on?

If we’re going to take seriously our opportunity to shape the next generation with Godly leaders, we must be ready to give them opportunities to stretch themselves and share their faith. These are the kinds of opportunities that set Mt. Bethel apart and make a deep, lasting impact in the lives of our children. Within our school family, children are challenged and nurtured to reach their full potential as they learn to lead like Christ did, by putting others ahead of themselves. This kind of education has always been valuable, but it has never been more important. Thank you for your partnership in helping to make it possible.

Blessings,

Jim R. Callis

Head of School

Dates to Remember

Friay, January 27: Blue Out Basketball Games

Tuesday, January 31: Re-enrollment Ends

Thursday, February 2: Open House Main Campus

Friday, February 10: Munchkins with Mom

Friday, February 17: You Fed Me Event

Admission

Re-enrollment Deadline Approaching
Re-enrollment for the 2017-2018 school year is well underway. The deadline to secure your child's placement for next year is January 31 . If you've already submitted your re-enrollment contract/s without payment, your tuition deposit must be received by January 31 to reserve a spot. To re-enroll, sign in to your My BackPack account and locate the Enrollment/Re-enrollment link. To view your re-enrollment contract, you must first review, update AND submit your Family Profile.

If you're having difficulty locating your re-enrollment contract, please contact Jackie Grasty, Director of Admission for Lower and Middle School or Cal Boyd, Director of Admission for Upper School. We look forward to partnering with you again for the upcoming school year.

Now Accepting New Applications for 2017-2018
Applications are now being accepted for new students for the 2017-2018 school year. Siblings of current students applying for the first time will also need to submit an application and schedule a shadow day. Students applying to Junior Kindergarten through 5th grade will be assessed for admission on March 4. New applicants interested in 6th through 12th grade will need to register to take the SSAT (school code is 5260). The SSAT is administered monthly at our upper school campus.

For more information, contact Jackie Grasty, Director of Admission for grades JK- 8th or Cal Boyd , Director of Admission for the Upper School.

Financial Aid
For families anticipating a need for financial aid next year, the deadline to apply is Friday, February 24. Plan accordingly, as your completed 2016 Federal Tax Return must be submitted before a request for aid can be considered. The Parent Statement of Need will also need to be submitted to Jackie Grasty, Director of Admission. If you received financial aid this school year and will need assistance again next year, please note that you must reapply. Link here to begin the application for financial aid. For more information, contact Jackie Grasty .

Main Campus Open House
4385 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta
February 2 at 10:00 a.m.

Mark your calendars for our last open house on February 2 at our Main Campus for junior kindergarten through 8th grade. We hope you can join us, and please be sure to spread the news to friends and neighbors as well! Questions? Contact Jackie Grasty , Director of Admission.

Save the Date

Munchkins with Mom

Friday, February 10

It's now time for moms to have munchkins with their loves. Join us for Friday morning fun in the Fellowship Hall for our annual Munchkins with Mom!

Middle School: 7:15 - 7:40

3rd - 5th Grade: 7:40 - 8:05

JK - 2nd Grade: 8:05 - 8:30

Spring Fling

Saturday, March 25

Pavillion at Olde Towne

Save the date for MBCA's annual Spring Fling on Saturday, March 25 at the Pavillion at Olde Towne. The Spring Fling, formerly known as the Gala, is a wonderful event for the school! Funds raised from past events have been used to purchase playground equipment, AV studio and equipment used for the MBCA morning news, e-readers and a bus used for sporting events and commuting students. Please consider attending as this is the only social event exclusively for parents held for the school.

Announcements

MBCA’s Invitational Art Show

We Need Volunteers
The Show is April 21, but there are many jobs that need to be done ahead of time! Five schools will be participating in art displays, workshops, lunch and an awards ceremony. We will need parent volunteers to help with:

Procuring prize donations—usually some kind of art supply (4 for Best in Show awards)
Set up on April 20, 2017 AM
Hosting our Judges April 20, 2017 PM
Tabulating results April 20, 2017 PM
Registration April 21, 2017
Lunch coordination (ordering and serving)
Photographers
Greeters
Workshop assistants
Clean up and take down

If you are interested in helping in any of these areas or want more information please email Bette Cardell. Thanks in advance for your help!

Friday Morning Breakfast

At the Main Campus
Come early and join your classmates for breakfast. All profits go toward the 8th grade mission trip. Sales start no later than 7:30 a.m. Tables will either be outside or in the main foyer of DeVore Hall. Students should be sure to finish their breakfast before going to class.

We will offer:
$3 - Chick-fil-A Biscuits
$3 - Chick-fil-A Minis box
$1 - Donuts (glazed and chocolate glazed)
$3 - Gluten Free Option

Questions? Contact Nancy Ostergard or Paige Valentine 678-907-0779.

Chick-fil-A Breakfast

At the North Campus

The Upper School will be selling Chick-fil-A biscuits and calendars at the North Campus on Friday mornings from 7:30 – 8:10 a.m . All profits go toward the Upper School Mission Trips.

We will offer:

$3 - Chick-fil-A Biscuits

$7 - Chick-fil-A 2017 Cow Calendar with coupon card which includes 12 FREE food and drink coupons.

Volunteer Opportunities

Munchkins with Mom

Volunteers Needed

Parent Council is looking for some male volunteers to help with our annual Munchkins with Mom event. If you are interested in volunteering the morning of February 10, please link to see the Sign-Up Genius.

Class News

First Grade

"Attractive" Magnets

First Grade had an in-house field trip with one of High Touch High Tech's scientists to explore the wonders of magnets. During this hands-on science program, our first graders learned all the “attractive” facts about magnets and their poles. They then had the opportunity to test out their theories by performing a number of magnetic experiments including magnet races, floating rings and paper clip “fishing” just to name a few.

Fourth Grade
Mystery Skype with Kearney, Nebraska
Mrs. Chiang’s homeroom met some new friends today in Social Studies. They hosted a Mystery Skype with Kearney, Nebraska! It was an hour time difference and around 40 degrees. The students were in 2nd grade and asked great questions. Their school was also a faith-based school. Great job, students! Until next Skype…

Fifth Grade
Parker Prevost
This week, we had a very special chapel speaker, 5th grader, Parker Prevost. Parker felt called to share her ideas about faith and trust in God, and after many months of practice, she presented her wonderful message this past Tuesday. It is a blessing to all students at MBCA when a peer not only has such a deep and meaningful relationship with God, but also feels compelled to share it with others in such an articulate way!

Camp Hope
Fifth graders and their families worked diligently to raise $4,049 for our grade level mission project, Camp Hope. Lillian Rowley and Walker Price presented Christina Cummings with our “big check”, as the two of them raised over $500 each! We’re blessed to have the opportunity to work with these students and enforce the idea of servant leadership, which is obviously being instilled at home as well.

Middle School

NJHS Volunteers at Special Olympics

Eighteen members of the National Junior Honor Society traveled to the Cobb Civic Center to volunteer at the Georgia State Special Olympics Indoor Winter Games on Friday evening. Students were fans in the stands to support and encourage the athletes and assisted during the games’ Opening Ceremonies and dance.

Geographic Geography Bee Contestants
Monday, January 23, ten students will compete in the annual National Geographic Geography Bee here at MBCA. The bee will occur in the sanctuary beginning at 2:00 p.m.

The following students are Middle School contestants:
Christian Villarreal - 6th grade
Matthew Frazee - 6th grade
Henry Bradford - 7th grade
Kyle Hampton - 7th grade
Jack Burrows - 7th grade
Patrick Villareal - 8th grade
Elizabeth Ebhogiaye - 8th grade
James Paine - 8th grade
Samuel Alarcon - 8th grade

House Points
Fortes - 6,144

Veritas - 6,104

Servimus - 5,537

Integritas - 5,408
Fidelitas - 5,121

Humilitas - 5,100

Sports

Blue Out Basketball Games

Friday, January 27

North Campus

MBCA is having a Blue Out Friday, January 27 at the Varsity basketball games. The shirts are now on sale for $10 for all students, parents, grandparents and siblings to purchase. This is going to be an exciting night, so get your Soar with the Eagles shirt and bring your spirit to the game. Link for our online store to place your order.

Upper School
Varsity Lady Eagles Basketball
Picked up a pair of victories against Fideles Christian and Notre Dame! It was a great weekend for the Mt. Bethel Varsity Ladies as they defeated region opponent Fideles Christian 49-34, on Friday, January 13 and Notre Dame Academy, 51-19, less than 24-hours later.

The ladies got rolling early on Friday at Fideles and never looked back. After a 4-4 tie early in the first, the Eagles cruised to a 29-16 halftime lead after a strong 20-6 run. Alissa Barnes led the charge for MBCA scoring 24 points and picked up six steals. Seven of Alissa’s 24 came in a crucial stretch of the fourth quarter after Fideles had cut the lead down to seven. Lauren Schwartz had another double-double scoring 17 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, she also blocked 3 shots. Also helping the MBCA effort were Nadia Barnes (4 points, 5 rebounds), Grace Grogan (2 points, 4 rebounds), and Summer Smith (2 points, 7 rebounds, 1 steal).

Mt. Bethel kept the train rolling on Saturday afternoon as Alissa Barnes's 22 points propelled the Eagles to a 51-19 victory over Notre Dame Academy. With a 22-point first quarter, Mt. Bethel Lady Eagles pulled ahead early on the strength of a 22-4 run, eventually claiming a 32-10 lead by halftime. Barnes led Mt. Bethel’s offense, going 9-for-14 (64%) from the floor . Lauren Schwartz once again was in double digits, scoring 16 points and grabbing 10 rebounds, while Nadia Barnes added 9 points, 8 rebounds, 2 blocks. Grace Grogan chipped in 2 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals.

Varsity Boys’ Basketball
The Boys’ basketball team were road warriors last week playing 3 games all on the road. Last Tuesday we played a region game against Young American Christian School and defeated them 84 – 39.  The Eagles had 4 guys in double figures with JaVontae Kruger with 15, Jordan Meka with 14, Jaquez Gilbert with 13 and Matt Gilliland with 10. Stanley Eze and Coleman Boyd chipped in 9 each.

On Thursday, January 12 we went to Cumberland Christian, where we did not play very well. It was a hard fought game going back and forth. The first quarter was 21 – 20, then half time was 32 – 30. We had two key players foul out in the game that hurt us. We came up short 75 - 67.  Stanley Eze had 23, JaVontae Kruger and Jordan Meka each chipped in 12 and Jaquez Gilbert added 11.

On Friday, January 13 we traveled to Stockbridge, Ga to take on another region opponent, Community Christian. After losing on Thursday, the boys came out on a mission. We jumped on them 25 – 10 in the first quarter and never looked back. We had 10 dunks by 3 different players, Jaquez Gilbert, Stanley Eze and Jordan Meka.  Jordan Meka finished with 19 points and 6 rebounds, Coleman Boyd scored 18 points and dished out 6 assists, Stanley Eze chipped in 13 and Matt Gilliland added 8.  We are currently undefeated in Region play at 5 – 0 and 16 – 4 overall.

JV Boys’ Basketball
The Eagles traveled to Cumberland Christian on January 12, always a tough place to play. A very physical battle ensued in the 1st half, with CCA holding a 20-16 lead. In the third quarter, Cumberland went on an offensive tear, taking a 42-26 advantage into the 4th. However, this Eagle squad has a lot of pride, and in the 4th quarter made a very serious run at Cumberland, pulling to within one basket on numerous occasions. In the end, the comeback fell short with Cumberland notching the victory 54-48. The JV eagles were led by 8th graders William Kolker, DJ Radtke, and Bauer Gucky with 18, 11, and 10 points, respectively.

January is always a tough month, because the schedule is packed with games. Less than 24 hours after the tough battle with Cumberland, the Eagles traveled over an hour to Stockbridge to take on Community Christian. The defensive intensity was markedly better than the prior night’s game. Led by Austyn Wright, David Deaderick, Perry Schilling and Michael Fuller, the defense applied full court pressure to the Knights from the opening tip to the last whistle. William Kolker chipped in 23 to lead a number of Eagles as the defensive turnaround from the prior game was too much for Community Christian. Eagles take the W 61-51.

And another less than 24-hour turnaround for our JV Eagles, but in the friendly confines of the Eagles Nest at the North Campus. Continuing a theme from the 4th quarter of the Cumberland Game, MBCA applied withering defensive pressure to an outmanned squad from Notre Dame Academy. Blake Shaffer, Kevin Houston, Austyn Wright, and Michael Fuller led the defensive efforts that resulted in 20+ Irish turnovers. All ten Eagles on the game day roster scored! David Deaderick led a balanced MBCA offense with 13 points, as the Eagles prevailed 64-18.

Swimming

The Upper School swim team traveled to the campus of Georgia Tech to swim in the Atlanta Girls School Invitational. This was our largest meet of the year, with 18 Middle & Upper Schools competing. Our Upper School Girls' finished in 11th Place and our US Boys' finished in 10th Place.

Top 10 Finishes
7th Place - US Girls 100 Back - Jordan Milligan
7th Place - US Boys 100 Back - Haden Wise
8th Place - US Boys 100 Fly - Jack Neumann
8th Place - US Boys 200 Free Relay (Stone Reilly, Warren Puy Arena, Jack Neumann, Haden Wise)

Next up is the State Championships on January 28.

Middle School

Basketball
All four teams were in action on January 17 against The Walker School. The boys traveled while the ladies hosted from the Main Campus.

A Boys win 40 - 24

B Boys win 24 - 17

A Girls lose 25 - 37

B Girls win 18 - 8

All four MS teams hit the court on January 19 against St. Francis. The boys hosted from the Main Campus while the girls were on the road.
A Boys win 88 - 68

B Boys win 39 - 14

A Girls loss 26 - 46
B Girls win 22 - 18

Swimming
Congratulations to both of our teams for an excellent meet! At the Atlanta Girls School Invitational our Middle School Girls’ & Boys’ teams finished in 4th Place.

Top Time Droppers were Michael Herrmann (-10.15 secs); Ethan Parker (-9.58); Andrew Herrmann (-4.75); Evie Papenhagen (-4.0); Hannah Leerssen (-3.65); Andrew Rothwell (-1.88) & Warren Puy Arena (-1.23)

Top 5 Finishes
3rd Place - MS Boys 100 Free - Andrew Herrmann
3rd Place - MS Boys 50 Back - Andrew Herrmann
3rd Place - MS Boys 50 Breast - David Vicknair
4th Place - MS Girls A Medley Relay (Leerssen, Sa Cox, Sculac, Bechtel)
4th Place - MS Girls 50 Fly - Olivia Bechtel
4th Place - MS Girls 200 A Free Relay (Sa Cox, C Morgan, Sculac, Bechtel)
5th Place - MS Girls 100 IM - Brenna Sculac

Top 10 Finishes
6th Place - MS Girls 100 IM - Olivia Bechtel
6th Place - MS Boys 50 Free - Andrew Herrmann
7th Place - MS Boys 50 Breast - Michael Herrmann
8th Place - MS Boys 100 Free - TIE - David Vicknair & Michael Herrmann
8th Place - MS Girls 50 Back - Olivia Bechtel
8th Place - MS Girls 200 B Free Relay (R Servaes, Rault, K Morgan, Papenhagen)
9th Place - MS Girl B Medley Relay (Wood, C Morgan, Papenhagen, R Servaes)
9th Place - MS Girls 50 Breast - Saena Cox
10th Place - MS Girls 200 C Free Relay (Wood, Leerssen, Taulbee, K Servaes)

Thank you to all of you for a wonderful regular season! Next up is the State Championships on January 28.

MBUMC News

Rooted Women's Community

Homegrown Worship Nights

The Rooted Women’s Community invites you to join them for their first in a series of Homegrown Worship Nights! Through Homegrown, they will give voice to local women by inviting them to lead them in worship and teaching. This will be a time to listen, learn, fellowship and draw closer to Jesus as you draw closer to each other. There are four churches united in one community committed to serving our one big God. Mothers, this is a place for you to be encouraged and refreshed! They also encourage you to bring your daughters, ages middle school and up.

SCREAM

4th and 5th grade Spiritual Retreat

Sign up now for SCREAM retreat, March 17-19, at Sharp Top Cove in Jasper, GA. Children’s Ministry will be transporting 4th and 5th graders and a few chaperones by bus in the afternoon on Friday, March 17 and returning on Sunday by 1:30 p.m. There will be worship speakers, live worship bands, outdoor lake activities, comedy characters, high energy interactive games, great food and fellowship. Early bird cost is $185 (February 1 cost increases to $200). Sign up online here by February 15 to participate. SCREAM stands for Students Celebrating and Rejoicing Enthusiastically in the Almighty Messiah. For more information, please contact Becky Tolbert .

Christian Activity Center

Winter Class Schedule

Come and try a complimentary fitness class across the parking lot in the Christian Activity Center. The CAC has 22 classes per week including barre, strength, cardio, pilates and yoga. Link to view the winter schedule.