Dr. Haire dedicates Liberty's new facility at ribbon cutting

Alumnus Rick Gailey cut the ribbon at Liberty Christian’s Grand Opening of its new Academic and Athletic addition on Saturday. 

The festive day began with a spring football game, followed by a luncheon, ribbon cutting, tours, and a powder-puff game. 

Alumnus Rick Gailey cuts the ribbon at the grand opening of Liberty's new facility

On hand were several professional athletes and coaches signing autographs, including MLB MVP John Wetteland and Dallas Cowboys’ Chris Boniol and Keith O’Quinn, and Liberty alumni and collegiate athletes including OU’s Ben Habern, ACU’s Justin Stephens, KSU’s David Smith, and OU’s Ashley Kowalewski.

Before the ribbon cutting, President and Founder of Liberty Christian School, Dr. Rodney Haire, told the crowd of more than 500 that he wanted to dedicate the new facility to the Lord, saying that because of this facility, he hopes students grow in their relationship with Christ and build friendships that will last for eternity. He thanked the construction team and board of trustees and dedicated the building to the Lord. 

Athletic Director Greg Price introduced Rick Gailey, the third student enrolled at Liberty in the 1980s, and a current history teacher and coach.

Gailey cut the ribbon in front of a cheering crowd that was excited to see the facility firsthand.

The 17,000 square foot facility includes new academic classrooms, a 100-seat meeting room for campus functions, a wrestling/multisport room, weight and conditioning room, coaches offices and kitchen, and locker rooms.

These students are on target to meet or exceed ACT’s College Readiness Benchmarks by graduation. ACT’s College Readiness Benchmarks are empirically-based and identify the level of achievement necessary in English, mathematics, reading, and science to have a successful college freshman experience. 

The students receiving this recognition from the Texas ACT Council are: Elizabeth Adams, Brandon Allison, Olivia Asprey, Carley Barnett, Caleb Bishop, Grace Dansby, Shelby Dragoo, Ross Earley, Jacob Elliott, Coleman Gannon, Shawn Graybill, Sydney Gresham, Malorie Grigg, Brooke Hadley, Benjamin Hawkins, Aaron Ilami, Sarah Jaderlund, Victoria James, Elisabeth Kevlin, Alexa Kulikauskas, Emily Lawson, Spencer Mackenzie, Austin Mann, Matthew Marrs, Lauren Massing, Connor McMann, Benjamin Menard, Gavin Menichini, Harrison Newlan, Garrett Newland, Chelsi Patton, Jordan Person, Jacob Quast, Gage Reesor, Arthur Seely, Mason Shanahan, Nevan Simone, Morgan Smith, Brooke Stoermer, Nicholas Valenzuela, Curtis Vander Stoep, Russell Vittrup, Preston Werner, Grace Wetteland, Katherine Wetteland, Jamie Whelan, and Alexander Wolski.

“Growing up, I knew I loved to write,” he said. “I’d sit down to my dad’s orange and black monochromatic computer and write short stories.” 

He would announce to his mom, “I’m going to go write,” and then disappear for hours. At the same time, he discovered he had a passion for theatre that developed by watching his brother onstage in college. 

When Holland attended TCU, his love for writing and theatre collided when he took a script writing class for two semesters under the tutelage of Richard Allen, an Emmy award-winning writer and current chair of the Radio Television Film department at TCU. 

Holland became a teacher after graduation, but it wasn’t until he came to Liberty that he was able to make script writing a full-fledged class. Now, script writing is the highlight of his day. 

“I feel like this class opens students’ eyes to possibilities,” he said. “In a script, students can create a world where anything can happen, letting them dream big and seeing what God does. 

“So often we put limits on ourselves and God because we think that the goals and aspirations we have are too far out there. When students cross that 90-page mark in their scripts, they realize what they are capable of doing. Step by step, little by little, big things are possible!” 

This year, Holland has seen scripts that vary from a blind girl befriending an angel, teenagers dealing with the lunacy of high school, humans being caught in the middle of Armageddon, the telling of a true story of a female rodeo star, a future going awry, and the attempted rebooting of civilization on another planet.  

“All of these stories were accomplished by students who are mostly novices in the script writing world,” said Holland. 

In the first semester, Holland teaches the basics, such as what a script looks like, the fundamentals of storytelling, and how to pace a story and make interesting characters. The semester concludes by the students writing a short film script. 

In the second semester, the class becomes a workshop. 

Script writing teacher Kirk Holland and senior Connor Devlin

“We spend most of our time writing, reading, and discussing,” he said. “For students who experience writer’s block, we talk it through and help them through it. At every 25-page checkpoint, we read through the scripts to hear them and make necessary changes. By the time the finish line approaches, the scripts are ready for the final small push with minor polishes and edits.

“The final script is incredibly satisfying.” 

A student in Holland’s class, Connor Devlin, graduates this year and has been accepted to Biola University in California to study script writing and screen writing. 

Devlin said, “Mr. Holland has inspired me to want to pursue this career. He’s good at what he does and has been a mentor to me throughout high school. He’s a great teacher and an even better friend. 

“Being at Liberty has taught me that I can express myself through every medium. My goal is to make mainstream films with Christian aspects and values.” 

Next year, script writing will begin again with new students and new stories waiting to be written. Holland hopes that in the future, he will be a part of a film production class where writers, actors, and a production team come together and make these scripts come to life.

Mitchell Heffington, Madeline Manning, and Tim Douglass enjoy the senior retreat

Class verse:

“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness” (Colossians 2:6–7). 

Senior Retreat: Fun, food, fellowship, and focus! This retreat unifies the class and gives students a vision for their senior year. Students spend time to reflect, refresh, and prepare their hearts to be in line with what God wants for them as leaders and as a class. 

Abby Deaver and Sydney Brynn dress up and deliver valentines

The Valentine’s Delivery:

For more than 10 years, seniors deliver singing valentines, balloons, and candy to students every Valentine’s Day. Last year, the senior class delivered more than 2,000 valentines to Middle and Upper School students. Seniors dress up in their pink, red, and white, and teachers also join in on the fun. 

Chris Wells and Lindsey Grigg enjoy delivering valentines

Preview Day Tours: Seniors serve as campus tour guides for prospective families and answer questions from a student’s point of view. “The response we get from these families is overwhelmingly positive,” said Debi Habern, dean of student life. “One parent recently sought me out and said, ‘I was very impressed with your students. You must have a lot of confidence in them to allow them to give tours to prospective families. It shows me you have a lot of faith in your students.’” 

Joe Gorman shows off his keys as he and Hayley Fowler head to off-campus lunch

Off-campus lunches:

Last year, the student council approached Upper School Principal Ed Cook with the idea of allowing seniors to go off-campus for lunch one day a week, and they have enjoyed this senior perk ever since. 

Skip days:

This tradition began with one approved day off. For the past several years, the senior class has enjoyed two “school approved” skip days — one in the fall and one in the spring.

Zack Cox volunteers in the cafeteria on Senior Skip Day

Zoo Day: “When I announce this trip to parents of seniors at the ‘Senior Year at-a-Glance’ meeting early in the year, I always get funny looks from the parents,” said Habern. “I guess you wouldn’t think that 17 and 18 year olds would like going to the zoo, but they do. They especially love going as a group and enjoying the day with their classmates. At the zoo, students split off in groups of 10 or 12. We then meet around noon and go to a local restaurant for lunch together. It’s a great time and another memory maker for the senior class.” 

Junior-Senior Prom: Every spring, the junior class hosts the prom in honor of the graduating senior class. This night is a special evening for both juniors and seniors. “As I guide and direct the juniors in preparing for the prom, I always remind them that our decisions are based upon wanting to plan a wonderful evening for the upcoming graduates,” said Habern. In 1999, the junior class started a new tradition of having the dinner and dance all in one place. Many local schools have followed Liberty’s lead and now have their dinner and dance at one location. “Another Liberty tradition is inviting the parents of seniors to come at the beginning of the dance for a mother/son, father/daughter dance,” said Habern. “It gives parents a quick, 15-minute glance into this fun evening and a dance with their senior son or daughter.”

Senior Splurge: This all-night event begins at 3 p.m. when staff member chaperones and the senior class head out to local fun-filled destinations. Dinner is first on the agenda, followed by WhirlyBall, which is a game that combines lacrosse, basketball, and bumper cars. The next destination is Hawaiian Falls Water Park, and the night concludes at the Malibu Speed Zone.

Senior Farewell Address: Since 2004, seniors have received a farewell book that they create. Each student gets one page to tell their fellow seniors, either collectively or individually, what they have meant to them. “This collection of notes, just for seniors, is another memory maker,” said Habern. “My prayer is that many of these students will enjoy friendships together well beyond their high school years.” 

Graduation: In the midst of joy and tears, seniors are honored at graduation with speakers from their class and the announcement of scholarships. Students also present their parents with handwritten notes of thanks for their love and guidance. The evening concludes with a rose-cutting ceremony, a special time for graduates to reflect on their memories and look forward to their bright new future ahead.

Sisters Kaylyn and Megan McNatt raise money for missions

The second annual Missions Week had a two-fold mission. The first was to teach students that they were made to give, contribute, share, and serve. The second was to teach students about the world around them. 

“We have all been called to go and love the world with the love of Jesus,” said Chris Searcy, Upper School youth pastor. 

“John 3:16 tells us that God loves the world, which means that we should care about what is going on with our brothers and sisters around the world,” said Searcy. 

During Missions Week, students focused on a different country each day – Uganda, China, Guatemala, Europe, and the United States – and learned about the culture, religious preferences, and prayer needs for the lost and the missionaries in each country. 

Middle School Youth Pastor Matt Bowles said, “God calls us and equips us with the tools to share the gospel. By studying these countries, we emphasized the Great Commission.” 

Students could purchase a Jeans Day for $3 each day that week and were encouraged to pay from their own pockets or piggy banks. More than $13,000 was raised and will go toward helping Liberty Christian School in Ireland and providing medical help to students at God Cares High School in Uganda. 

A parent shared her children’s response to seeing a video about Ugandan orphans receiving the blankets Liberty fifth graders made for them last year. “It hit home for my children when they saw actual footage of the Ugandan orphans waiting in line to accept the blankets. They saw it and got it – small efforts can make a huge impact.” 

Third grader Kaylyn McNatt raised $100 for Missions Week last year. This year her goal was to double that amount. With the help of little sister, Megan, a kindergartner, they raised $178 by the end of the week.

“They were so excited that they got so close to their goal,” said mother Kristi McNatt. “They didn’t know it yet, but they had $22 coming from their grandparents, in exchange for some chores, that helped them make their $200 goal.” 

In addition to chores, the girls sold lemonade and cookies on a blustery, windy 50 degree day. 

Mrs. McNatt said, “Just like last year, when sales were kind of slow, they packed up some lemonade and cookies and went door to door. 

“These two little girls have such a love for Jesus that they want to shine for Him and help people in need. Through Missions Week, they have truly seen how much good they can do for others in such a short amount time. They love to give of themselves and truly see and feel what a wonderful, lasting gift it is to help others.

“My husband, Lance, and I have such a love for this school – Liberty is amazing. Our children are not only learning curriculum in a Christ-loving environment, but they are learning how to be missionaries at such a young age and establishing a lifetime of giving of themselves to help others.”

Searcy concluded, “What a gift it is to be a part of a school that is not only impacting this generation of students in America, but also around the world!”

Do Lee develops her own biblical worldview

“Chums,” or Christian Humanities, is the senior level Bible class designed to help students understand what it is they believe and be able to defend why they believe it. It is the capstone class in Liberty’s Bible department. 

Students take everything they have learned throughout their time at Liberty and at their church and discover what their own personal worldview is. 

Once they have defined their biblical worldview at the beginning of the semester, they spend the rest of the year learning about other religions around the world and tackling relevant morality issues such as divorce, homosexuality, abortion, stem cell research, and evolution.

Students search the scriptures for answers

“This class is a really exciting and fun, debate-filled, discussion-friendly class that prepares seniors to take on these issues in the world around them before they walk across the stage,” said Chris Searcy, Upper School youth pastor.

Based on the students’ scores from the Stanford exam last spring, 46 fourth and fifth graders were selected for Duke TIP. 

“Recognition for these excellent students is a great honor for Liberty and reflects the strength and diligence of our exceptional teachers, outstanding academic curriculum, and very supportive parents,” said Marcy Nicklas, Lower School vice principal. 

Duke’s talent program has become a global leader in identifying academically gifted students and providing them with innovative programs to support their development. 

In addition to recognition, students in Lower School who are invited and join Duke TIP receive advanced testing, online enrichment, and exclusive publications. 

The Duke TIP is a great way to reward and provide incentives to those students who are academically gifted. Liberty is proud to participate in Duke’s talent search and have so many students from Liberty who qualify.

Fourth grade students who qualified are: 

Aubrie Baker
Trenton Chappel
Julia Fetters
Hunter Franks
Anthony Goss
Carly Howard
Kennedy Lecocke
Emma Lobbes
Tyler Lundblade
Cade Maclin
Gage McCallum
Nathan McCray
Lindsey Meath
Libbie Michael
Maya Murphy
Sarahbeall Shaffer
Bailey Shiflet
Margaret Sitzes
Hadley Stephenson
Powell Valles
Zechariah Wallace

Fifth grade students who qualified are:

Garin Boniol
Hunter Boyd
Kolton Cooper
Peyton Downey
Halle Duininck
Rebekah Fife
Gabriel Graves
Matthew Grigg
Ashley Howard
Isabella Hughes
Braedon Lindsey
Bryce Lindsey
Gracen Long
Bella Lovalvo
Connor Payton
Jake Ramsey
Ty Richardson
Clarissa Robison
Sarah Spivey
Kate Stidham
Ben Ward
Grant Widyn
Kelli Wissink
Chance Wright

Caleb Bishop with coach Noelle Christensen (left) and head coach Chase Hardin (right)

Sophomore Caleb Bishop represented Liberty Christian School at the TAPPS State Championship in Waco on April 25. 

Head tennis coach Chase Hardin said, “It was exciting to see Caleb go to State. State can put a lot of pressure on students who have never competed at that level. Now that Caleb’s first time is under his belt, he will do great in years to come.” 

Hardin has worked with Bishop since 2010. 

“Caleb began playing his eighth grade year and has blasted off from there,” said Hardin. “High school tennis is all about keeping the ball in play, and he does that very well.

Caleb Bishop plays at State

“Mental toughness is about 75 percent of the game, and players are either confident in themselves or not. Caleb is very much so. I see great things in his tennis future if he continues to work as hard as he does. He is one of the hardest workers I’ve seen, along with teammates Nevan Simone and Aaron Ilami.” 

Liberty usually sends doubles to State. The last singles player Liberty sent to State was Josh Fischer in 2009. 

Hardin’s motto for next season is PRIDE, which stands for Personal Responsibility In Doing Extraordinary … for God. 

“Players have a responsibility to do their best, just like we have a responsibility to do our best for our Savior,” he said. 

Hardin added that he needs more players and encourages students to try out for tennis. 

“I can teach students how to play and be great,” Hardin said. “Tennis offers so many life lessons and is a lifelong sport.” 

Students from kindergarten to 12^th grade who are interested in tennis can sign up for the Liberty Tennis Camp this summer, July 16–19, at www.libertychristian.com/summer.

Colby Dowdle wins Best in Show for her painting

Liberty Christian freshmen through seniors competed in the art festival of the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) Dallas District on April 20 at Temple Christian Academy in Flower Mound. 

Congratulations to Liberty junior Colby Dowdle who won best-in-show for her painting. Freshman Courtney Bishop and junior Virginia Sitzes were best-in-show finalists. 

Sitzes won first in “Drawing – Color” and junior Megan Corradino won first in “Sculpture – Relief.” 

Second place finishers included freshman Maddie Ramirez in “Printmaking,” Bishop in “Drawing Color,” Dowdle in “Drawing Color,” senior Abby Deaver in “Sculpture 3D,” senior Kristin Smith in “Digital Photo,” and senior Ciara Smith in “Pottery.” 

Superior ratings in “Painting” were awarded to senior Youngman Chun and freshman Hannah Cullum. 

These ACSI events seek to encourage and inspire students toward a standard of excellence in leadership, communication, and performance by enhancing the academic and fine arts education in Christian schools. It provides opportunities for the practical application and development of skills necessary for confident Christian leadership.

Mindy Holt (right) in England

Mindy Holt

ACU ’07
Degree: Marketing and Financial Management
Career: Insurance Industry
Studied Abroad: London, England – Fall 2005 to Spring 2006
Studied: International Negotiations and Entrepreneurial Business 

The best part of my experience was learning the historical aspects of another country and being exposed to other cultures. I studied with people from Japan, Germany, Ireland, and Italy. I had a greater understanding than others of the different sites in London thanks to my great classes at Liberty. Because of my experience traveling abroad, I found that I was more marketable in my career because I had global experience. 

Monica Lacy
College: University of Dallas ’10; Currently at Vanderbilt in doctoral program
Degree: Physics
Career: Biophysics
Studied Abroad: Italy – January to May 2008
Studied: Art, architecture, early Western theology and history, philosophy, classic literature, and beginning Italian

While in Rome, I learned a lot about history and the meaning of some of the most beautiful places in Europe. Most importantly, the experience was a great time of prayer and thought for me as I took personal responsibility for my spiritual life and the reasons behind my faith. I grew in my confidence in God and His faithfulness. Liberty gave me a grounding in analytical thought and writing that prepared me to do work beyond what was expected in college. It helped me make the most of the extraordinary things I got to see studying in Rome and elsewhere. The spiritual formation and loving community I remember from Liberty have helped me in choosing friends and making decisions, and Liberty’s influence continues to guide many of my choices in graduate school and life.

Brent Womble in New Zealand

Brent Womble

College: TCU ’13
Degree: Psychology and Communication Studies
Career: Neuropsychology – Rehabilitation of patients who have had strokes and other brain injuries
Studied Abroad: New Zealand – July to November 2011
Studied: Psychology and Indigenous Studies 

I loved traveling the beautiful country and getting to know kiwis (New Zealanders). The experience broadened my perspective. I thank the academics I received from Liberty in helping me complete my studies successfully.

Alexandra Horton
College: OU ’12
Degree: Entrepreneurship, Venture Management, Business Management, and Pre-Law
Career: Practice family and criminal law, but may also work with startups and possibly patents
Studied Abroad: Arezzo, Italy – Summer 2011
Studied: International Entrepreneurship and Launching New Ventures that included corporate visits in Italy at Ferrari, Ducati, Pagani, and Mona Lisa, a children’s clothing line

The entire trip was surreal. I love adventures and experiencing new things, new people, new foods, and new places – it was all so exciting! I also noticed that Italians were not as concerned with money or success. They are concerned with family and living a great life. I learned to not take myself so seriously. I learned to stop and smell the roses. Success isn’t all that matters; enjoying life matters. We only live once, so enjoy it while we are here. God’s creation is beautiful. It would be a shame to live for 100 years and never see the amazing things He has created. I want to stand in awe of all that He has made, remember why I am here, find my purpose in life, and live out that purpose to the best of my ability. Liberty helped to shape and mold me in many ways academically, socially, and spiritually. Through my time at Liberty, I learned how to love all people. The mission trips I went on to Panama, Trinidad, and Honduras gave me a world perspective and made me much more grateful for the things that I have, tangible and intangible. Academically, I was much more prepared for many of my collegiate courses. Liberty also taught me to stand for what I believe.

Allie Pinkston in Spain

Allie Pinkston

College: TCU ’12
Degree: Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Spanish minor
Career: Private practice in psychology working with families and children
Studying Abroad: Seville, Spain –  January to May 2012
Studying: Spanish language, Spanish art, Spanish cinema, Spain’s culture and civilization, pragmatics and communication in Spain, and contemporary Spanish politics 

The best part of my studying abroad has been seeing how differently people do certain things in different countries. Every culture is beautiful in its own way. In Spain, for example, people put more emphasis on spending quality time with their family and friends than they do on work. There is no rushing around, making elaborate plans, or “squeezing people in.” Meals, coffee dates, and walks in the park can last for hours. Instead of living to work, Spaniards work to live. I have learned through this experience about being more flexible, adapting to various situations, and making friends with people who have totally different personalities. Although being in college and studying abroad is tons of fun, it is not always easy. I have to remind myself every day that the Lord is my everything. In addition to being the One who planned and blessed me with this wonderful season in my life, He is my best friend, Father, guide, peace, and protector. 

Callyn Honse in Italy

Callyn Honse

College: OU ’11
Degree: Bachelor of Science
Career: Dental Hygiene School at Texas Woman’s University
Studied Abroad: Arezzo, Italy – January to May 2010
Studied: Italian I, Film and Video Studies, Art History, and Independent Study

While in Italy, I loved traveling to a different country every weekend. The most rewarding part studying abroad was being fully independent yet fully dependent on the Lord. I grew up more than I ever expected during those five short months. I adapted to a completely different culture and lifestyle, found beauty in the small things, and developed a deep appreciation for Europe’s history. Weekly I am reminded of how blessed I was to attend Liberty. I have so much gratitude to everyone who poured life, hope, and biblical principles into me during some of the most pivotal times in my life. My experiences at Liberty gave me the confidence of who I am in Christ and who I wanted to be. Being held to a high academic standard at Liberty allowed me to set the bar high for myself in college. 

Thomas Deetjen in Germany

Thomas Deetjen

College: Texas A&M ’10
Degree: Mechanical Engineering
Career: Building Design and Engineering Consulting
Studied Abroad: Germany – Summer 2007 for 12 weeks and Summer 2008 for five weeks
Studied: German Language and Culture 

During my trip, I met another A&M student who had been to Germany a few times volunteering with his church from the U.S. I met his host family in Germany and became good friends with the local church’s youth pastor and some of the students in the youth group. After my six-week study was over, I stayed with the church in Germany for an additional week to help with some renovation projects. The Saturday that we finished, my “boss,” Wolfgang, a retired German air force mechanic, led me on an 8-hour bike tour through the nearby German wine country – an amazing experience that I never could have booked through a travel agency. I enjoyed working with the church so much that I came back the next summer to help Wolfgang with another renovation project and brush up on my German. Liberty was a great preparation for college. I worked really hard in high school and made good grades and was surprised that my freshman year in college was actually a little less difficult than my senior year at Liberty. I would advise Liberty students to spend their summers wisely when they are in college. College provides access to lots of options. We had almost four months of summer at college, so I was able to volunteer in Germany for five weeks, do an 8-week engineering internship while taking an online history class, and still have plenty of time left before the fall semester. A lot of my acquaintances spent their summers at minimum wage jobs, taking classes, or just seeing old friends back home. Summer breaks typically don’t happen once we start our careers, so consider the four summer breaks at college as very important. Go study abroad, do internships, work at summer camps, volunteer, or just go on a long road trip. Do some research and be creative with your summers. It may be a long time before you get them back.

Chelsea Charles
College: UNT ’11
Degree: General Studies with a focus on Cultural Anthropology, Management, and Community Service
Career: President and Founder of Serve the Silenced, a nonprofit organization for international human rights currently working on projects in Kosovo
Studied Abroad: Paris, France – Fall 2008
Studied: Fashion merchandising, French language, and International Studies

One of my favorite things about studying abroad was experiencing culture shock and finding ways to adapt and then love the differences. I realized how much the world has to offer when I studied abroad. I believe that the world is meant to be explored to broaden our perspective on the life God has given us. Studying abroad gave me the opportunity to nurture my passion for serving people in different cultures. During my experience, I really began to grow and mature as a person and develop an understanding of the Lord’s will for my future. When studying abroad, it is imperative that students know who they are and what their standards are before traveling. I was blessed to go on several mission trips with Liberty that helped open my eyes to not being scared to travel, even on my own. Liberty helped develop my character and helped me have confidence in my beliefs. We need confidence when we travel because we will be tested in different situations. Knowing who we are helps us to persevere and have more enjoyable experiences.

Amy Smith in China

Amy Smith
College: Baylor University ’12
Degree: Bachelor of Administration in Business Management and Mandarin Chinese, and pursue a doctorate
Career: Aspirations with the Boston Consulting Group in China or California, LAX Airport, or National Geographic
Studied Abroad: China
Studied: Chinese language and culture

My parents adopted three girls from China who are now students in the Lower School at Liberty. I went to China during the adoption of my youngest sisters in 2004 and 2006, and while I was there, I embraced the Chinese culture and decided I wanted to learn Chinese. I was also inspired to study abroad after going on Liberty mission trips to Trinidad and Tobago. In 2010, I studied abroad in China for six weeks, with the first two weeks at Tsinghua University in Beijing and the other four weeks at multiple cities in China. It was in China where I realized that things that had mattered to me before were undoubtedly superficial. After seeing people who lived in a house the size of my bedroom, I realized there is much more to life than shopping, expensive cars, and status. The Chinese people were so kind, and if I ever looked lost or confused, they always went out of their way to help me.

Lauren Costin (left) in Germany

Lauren Costin

College: Texas A&M ’13
Degree: Visualization Sciences with a Business minor
Career: Lauren is studying to be a graphic designer and work in advertising, print work, and motion graphics
Studying Abroad: Bonn, Germany – January to May 2012
Studying: Videography, German, video game history, animation studio, and traditional media studio 

Since January, I have traveled to Amsterdam, Italy, Switzerland, Munich, Berlin, London, France, Prague, and Brussels. I am so excited to see how other people live, learn, and view the world from a hands-on point of view. I am learning it is OK when things don’t go exactly as planned. God knows what He is doing in my life, and I need to trust Him and let things go sometimes. Liberty gave me the opportunity to build a strong foundation for my faith and the ability to learn what is right in the eyes of the Lord. Knowing who I am and having concrete faith in the Lord helps me stay grounded during my travels.

Sophomore Lauren Massing invents a "bathtub drainer" in Pre-AP World History

“Activities like these meet all of the students’ learning styles,” said teacher Missy Sharp. “Performing interviews are always great fun because students really get into character for their presentation. They also identify more and see deeper into an historical issue when their learning is more personal.” 

Students then analyzed how every action has a consequence. They identified different economic, political, and spiritual events happening today and the multiple impacts these events have on societies around the world. 

Also in Pre-AP World History, students made their own inventions as they prepared to study the Industrial Era, a time in history that propelled innovative thinking as people created inventions that made lives and jobs easier, and the economy more productive. 

During the project, students observed their world around them to identify problems in everyday life that needed to be solved. Once an idea was established, students created a working model of their invention and presented it to the class. 

“I encourage students to be creative and active problem solvers, to take the initiative and think outside the box in all areas of life where there are social, political, spiritual, or industrial issues,” said Sharp. 

“These lessons also teach students that persistence pays off in life – there are many things that do not work out the first time we attempt them. With these projects, I am glad to see students developing patience and creativity in their quest for solutions.” 

Thomas Edison said, “If I find 10,000 ways something won’t work, I haven’t failed.”

The Lower School: 

• Teaches to the whole child, fostering spirit, mind, and body 
• Supports the different learning styles, knowing each student is designed with unique gifts and talents 
• Offers a unified environment focused on creativity, academics, and spiritual growth 
• Prepares students for success socially through character, service education, and biblical peacemaking programs 

“Christianity, the Bible, prayer, love, family, and a strong curriculum that provides children with a firm foundation for lifelong learning are things that come to mind when I think about what makes the Lower School at Liberty so special,” said Marcy Nicklas, vice principal. 

“Our parental involvement is wonderful,” she said. “Our teachers are superb, and they love the Lord and feel led to teach,” she said. 

Another reason students achieve such academic excellence is the exemplary curriculum in each of their classes. Liberty gives each student a wide range of opportunities with exceptional programs. Students also have the opportunity to compete in academic competitions, many test at a grade level above their actual grade, and still others quality for Duke TIP, a national academic talent search at Duke University. 

In addition to the accelerated A Beka Christian academic program, Lower School students benefit from grade level lessons that go above and beyond the normal curriculum, meeting all of their learning styles in the classroom. A few of these enhancements include: 

 Kindergarten: Future Job Day
First Grade: Chinese New Year
Second Grade: Growing caterpillars into butterflies
Third Grade: Creating a Book Box Displaying Learning from Class Book
Fourth Grade: Students Become a Famous Texan
Fifth Grade: Students Transform into Historical Characters in their Wax Museum 

Students also benefit each week from enrichment classes such as Bible, art, computer, Latin, applied music, vocal music, music history and appreciation, musical theatre, band, physical education, and science laboratory experiences. 

Applied Music emphasizes the development of music fundamentals and piano keyboard skills. 

Art begins students’ art history knowledge at a young age as they are introduced to the lives of artists and different art styles. The fifth grade art elective class includes many art projects, such as silk painting, marbling, painting on glass, sculpting with clay, and painting with watercolors. 

Band teaches the fundamentals necessary to perform well on a musical instrument. Fifth grade band teaches tone production, technique, balance of the ensemble, dynamics, starting and releasing together, counting rhythms, and developing steady time. 

Computer is designed to expose children to computer vocabulary, reinforce basic computer skills, and teach how the components of computers work individually and together as a system. 

Latin introduces children to the Latin language and the culture in which it was used. Latin helps children determine what words mean. With an early working knowledge of these important components of their language, children gain the ability to use words well. A good vocabulary is a strong element in children’s self-esteem and in their overall education. 

Music History and Appreciation explores the history and theory of music in this fun and interactive class. Students learn to recognize works of famous composers and the historical periods in which they were created, such as: 

Renaissance: Tallis, Des Prez, and Gabrieli
Baroque: Vivaldi, Handel, and Bach
Classical: Beethoven, Mozart, and Haydn
Romantic: Bizet, Brahms, and Tchaikovsky
Modern: Adams, Copeland, and Sondeim

Students learn the stories of composers’ lives and their training. Musical instruments from these music periods and their distinctive sounds are studied, and these elements are practiced to develop well-informed listeners.

Musical Theatre broadens each student’s performing arts experience. Students learn to be comfortable on the stage through various projects that include:

Pantomime and gesture activities
Monologues and melodramas
Vocal techniques and projection exercise
Scene writing and performing
Team building and leadership skills

Physical Education teaches children to be physically active for a lifetime. Lower School students in kindergarten through fifth grade attend P.E. classes every day of the school week. Physical activity and motor skills form the core of the program. The physical education program teaches and promotes management skills, self-discipline, inclusion of all students, and most importantly, a Christ-like attitude. The program promotes a lifetime of personal wellness, responsibility, and cooperation.

Science Laboratory Experiences provide exciting hands-on labs in the classrooms to support and enhance the curriculum. Students are given the opportunity to put their knowledge into action and apply it to their lives through actual experience.

Vocal Music provides a basis for developing comprehensive musicianship through a sequenced study of voice, music theory, and the practical application of both in music reading skills. These elements are systematically presented in a format that helps students become independent thinkers who constantly apply their learning to an ever-widening set of musical experiences.

From the teaching to the enhancements to the enrichment classes, Liberty’s Lower School students are well prepared for their academic future.

http://www.kbtx.com/sports/headlines/Texas_AM_Wins_Big_12_Mens_Golf_Championship_149434225.html

First Graders Brock Shoopman and Brody Tritt dig in the dirt for Denton Bible's Community Garden

To encourage servant leadership, Liberty’s faculty educates students in biblical principles, instills character values, and promotes the relevance of God’s Word in everyday life. 

In the Bible, 2 Peter 1:5–9 says, “For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith, goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brother kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.” The hope and prayer is that Liberty graduates will “possess these qualities in increasing measure” as they enter into a world that needs to know and see the life-changing love of Christ. 

Lower School students put their knowledge into practice on local mission trips that are taken in each grade in every grade: 

Kindergarten: Share the gospel at a nursing home using resurrection eggs

First Grade: Visit Denton Bible Church’s Community Garden, which provides fresh food to people in need

Second Grade: Take food donations and tour Christian Community Action (CCA) in Lewisville

Third Grade: Visit Mi Escuelita Preschool in Dallas, take school supplies, and minister to preschoolers

Fourth Grade: Travel to Denton County Preschool, donate school supplies, and befriend preschoolers

Fifth Grade: Make blankets for the orphans of Uganda and send cards to the children there

Hannah Cullum and Abbi Armstrong in their Upper School art class

All schools within the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS) compete for the coveted Henderson Cup, which is awarded to the top school of the year in each classification. Liberty has won the Henderson Cup six out of the last eight years. 

Every discipline at Liberty – academics, fine arts, and athletics – contributes to the points it accumulates during the year in competing for the cup. The academic and fine arts competitions at Liberty encourage students to excel in areas of interest and provide a venue to develop knowledge and abilities that will foster camaraderie, determination, and character. 

“Liberty students who compete academically are gaining more knowledge, not only about the world around them, but how they can apply this knowledge to their lives,” said Misty Baptiste, fine arts department chair and coordinator of academic competitions. 

“Many of the academic tests are application-type tests that help students get a sense of the ‘big picture.’ Students who compete in speaking events also gain experience in presentation skills and poise. The power of public speaking will carry them throughout their careers and the rest of their lives.” 

Competition begins in Lower School where students are given the opportunity to compete in art, music, science, writing, reading, speaking, and spelling. In addition to Liberty’s Quest for the Crown reading competition held each spring by the library, Liberty has the honor of hosting the Private Schools Interscholastic Association (PSIA) competition after Spring Break each year. PSIA is the most comprehensive academic extracurricular program in Texas for students in Lower and Middle School. 

Students of all ages at Liberty also have the opportunity to compete academically through the Association of Christian School International (ACSI). Liberty has hosted the ACSI art festival, and approximately 10 schools brought more than 300 works of art for the competition. Lower and Middle School students also compete in a spelling bee, and this year 8^th grader Madeleine McMillan won the entire competition. 

Teacher Stephen Cook, who coordinates the math competition for TAPPS, said, “Our ‘mathletes’ spend hours outside of their regular homework time practicing skills that will be needed on these tests. In number sense, our students practice shortcuts to complex operations in their head, which are skills that have to be researched and practiced. These students are performing calculator operations in their mind! I love to see them learn new ways to solve problems and perform tasks they thought were impossible!” 

Teachers Debra Cook and Marshall Surratt coordinate the literary criticism for TAPPS competition. In literary criticism, students are given one novel, one play, and one author to study. The students read the works and then prepare to take tests on those works. In addition to the works, the students are also tested on literary terms, literary history, and literary criticism in general. This competition develops skills in reading and analysis. 

In spelling, students are given a list of 1,500 words and definitions. Eighty percent of the words on the test come from that list, and 20 percent of the words on the test do not. Students meet with Mrs. Cook for lunch. “We have a great time discussing the nuances of the meanings and spellings of words,” she said. “The spelling part of the competition is definitely for those who are fascinated by the words in our English language.” 

Cook also prepares students for ready writing, in which students write an essay from a test prompt. 

“Students are allowed to bring a dictionary or thesaurus to the competition, and after reading the prompt, they attempt to address the issue presented in the most succinct, creative, persuasive way they can,” she said. 

Teacher Kathy Hall coordinates the science portion of TAPPS competition.  “I love TAPPS academic competition – it is great fun!” she said. “The science test consists of 30 biology, 30 chemistry, and 30 physics questions. We prepare by studying vocabulary and concepts from all three disciplines. The goal is to meet weekly – TAPPS academic tests are a great way for students who enjoy intellectual competition to flex their mental ‘muscles’ and be rewarded for it. 

“I believe academic competition is a great way for students to strengthen their standardized test-taking skills under pressure, which benefits them greatly when it’s time to take the SAT or ACT for college admission and scholarships.” 

History Department Chair, Becky Shirley, coordinates the current events portion of TAPPS competition. “At the beginning of the year, we survey our students and ask for those who are interested in current events and want to compete. Our prep materials include tests from the Current Events League, TAPPS, and newspapers and magazines such as Time, Newsweek, and our favorite, The Week. The TAPPS competition test is multiple choice and one essay that covers a specific time period. The state test covers a more extended time period than the district. 

Lizzy Robinson practices her saxophone in the band room

“The learning experience involves being more aware of current issues and how they affect our lives. Students also gain knowledge in economics, government and politics, and science and technology. When we get together to review and prepare, I love listening to the students discuss what they’ve read and hearing their excitement, as well as their thoughts and opinions. Becoming knowledgeable, informed, and well-rounded citizens are benefits of participating in current events.” 

Scott Himel, director of bands, said, “What is great about competition is learning to work as a team, as individual members put forth their best effort on the field or in the band room for the sake of those around them.” 

Science Department Chair Heather Lytle said, “Competing helps students grow and learn in science because they have the benefit of applying what they’ve learned in the classroom to a new situation. It takes the book knowledge one more step. 

“I’d love each of our students to choose a scientific profession, but if not, at least they know they can understand science and its value in their everyday life. 

“The Liberty science department opens doors for our students to succeed. Extracurricular science events provide a positive experience on top of the curriculum we teach. 

“One of my favorite parts of the Science Bowl trip is visiting different science and engineering schools at Texas A&M the day before our contest. It’s enlightening to see what options there might be for these students as they head to college in the near future. 

“None of these events counts toward our TAPPS ranking in the state, other than the academic science contest in the spring. We spend a lot of time and energy in these other science events simply because we believe in their value … learning to ‘do science,’ working with others on a team toward a common goal, communicating ideas, and having fun in an academic venue.”

Misty Baptiste concludes, “It is a priceless gift for students to feel that competitive spirit and contribute to an overall title for their school. It is a joy to help students shine ‘in their lane.’”

“Developing a Christian worldview that will enable our students to be knowledgeable, informed, and involved citizens of our great nation is the ultimate goal for the AP U.S. Government course,” said Shirley. 

The course follows the curriculum requirements for the AP United States Government and Politics Course Description published by the College Board, along with Liberty’s guidelines for a United States government survey course.

Students in her class were recently asked, “What kind of citizen do you want to be?”

“I want to be informed, know what’s going on in our government, and make a difference in the decisions I make.” – Abby Deaver

“I want to be a citizen that is extremely active in politics and society. I want to be knowledgeable about how our nation’s government works.”
– Joe Gorman

“I want to be a citizen that is aware of what is happening in the world of politics and what choices our leaders are making.” – Josh Porter

“I want to be a citizen who impacts my community and makes informed decisions based on the Word of God. Mrs. Shirley has emphasized the fact that if we want to be good Christian leaders, Christ-following citizens need to step-up and make the changes they want to see.”
– Kristin Smith

Jordan Brown and Cole Irwin serve at Hearts for Homes

Courtney Clintsman serves at the Denton Christian Preschool and helped with an Easter egg hunt and participated in a cultural tradition of confetti eggs or Cascarones to wish blessings on the person covered in confetti

More than 350 Liberty Christian students and faculty lent helpful hands and glad hearts throughout the Metroplex on Thursday, April 5. 

“From Arlington to Carrollton and from Denton to Decatur, our students voluntarily signed up to spend their first day of Easter break serving alongside their peers and teachers,” said Kate Davis, girls youth pastor at Liberty. 

Brooke Alexander and Savannah Cothes clean the warehouse at Hearts for Homes

Teams of Liberty teachers and students served in the following organizations: 

• Mission Arlington
• Gospel for Asia
• Christian Community Action
• Spirit Horse
• Good Samaritan Nursing Home
• Twice as Nice Resale Shop
• Vision Ministries
• Hope Inn Christ
• Keep Denton Beautiful
• Denton Christian Preschool
• Camp Copass
• Hearts for Homes
• Liberty Wilderness shed 

“Students were organized by class, and they, along with staff, gardened, cleared horse trails, stocked resale shelves, ran an Easter egg hunt, painted, spent time singing hymns and praying for senior citizens, and did all types of manual labor,” Davis added. 

(L-R) Emily Payne and Caitie Sprock help organize at Twice as Nice

Nancy Perry, seventh grade English teacher, accompanied students to Twice as Nice Resale Shop in Denton. 

“Our team of students was divided into crews, from hanging clothes to sorting shoes, and from checking donated electronics to organizing stacks,” she said. “I have a new appreciation for how meaningful these donated goods can be to help those in need and was humbled by the amount of man-hours that go into such an undertaking. 

Matt Ramirez serving at Twice as Nice

“Our students were eager to do whatever was asked of them. I think they realized that their contribution was truly helping this business keep costs low so more money can stay in the ministry of serving those who are truly in need.”

Rylie Stephenson and Sydney Duininck lend a helping hand at Twice as Nice

Liberty congratulates science teachers Lisa Deaver and Barbara Snowden

Science teachers Lisa Deaver and Barbara Snowden are the recipients of the Fort Worth Regional Science and Engineering Fair Division 2 Teacher of the Year Award. 

They were both invited to the appreciation ceremony on April 19 at the University Club of the University of Texas at Arlington and received a plaque and $100 each. 

The award is based on the number of students the teachers had successfully place at the science fair this year in comparison to other schools. 

Due to the number of Liberty Christian students who placed at the fair, Liberty was also awarded “The Top School Award” in the Middle School Division.

Deaver is the Middle School science department chair at Liberty. She is in her 12^th year at the school, and in 2010 won its Golden Apple Teacher Award. 

Deaver said the science fair is an opportunity for Liberty students to exhibit their academic talent and push themselves to the next level. 

“With the quality students I’m blessed to work with at Liberty, I am always amazed to see their ideas, thought processes, and problem solving abilities at work. 

“We want to continue to provide our students the best tools and opportunities to compete in every arena with private and public schools.”

Snowden is in her seventh year at Liberty. She received her science degree from the University of North Texas. 

Snowden said, “Science fairs give our students the chance to discover the answers to questions they have about everyday life, all the while using the scientific process.

“Every year, the hard work by the students comes to fruition at the awards ceremony, and no feeling comes close to seeing the students’ faces the night of the actual fair. Watching one of God’s most precious creations, children, study another one of God’s amazing creations, our world, is priceless!”

And the winning continues. 

The Liberty Christian 46-member fifth grade band scored straight 1’s, a superior rating, from all five judges in the Sandy Lake Band Competition for elementary students on April 26. In fact, the fifth grade band scored straight 1’s in every event it competed in during the year. 

“This has been a perfect year for fifth grade beginner band members,” said Scott Himel, band director. “They are an amazing team of young musicians, and we are all very proud of them. 

“This success will be something they will look back on for years to come.” 

The following day, April 27, the Middle School and Upper School concert bands performed together in their final competition of the year at the Irving Performing Arts Center.

The bands received a silver plaque for second place and were only four points away from first. 

“We had a fantastic showing, as this competition is open to schools from all over the area, and Liberty was the only private school competing,” said Himel. 

“I am so proud of all of our achievements this year, but I am especially proud of the character and work ethic displayed from all of our students.

“They truly exhibited the Warrior spirit of Liberty Christian.”

Fifth grader Taylor Henderson shows the card and bracelet she made for the children in Uganda

In celebration of Valentine’s Day this year, Liberty Christian fifth grade students had a “Valentine’s Party with a Purpose” by sharing candy and making cards and bracelets for children in Uganda. They learned just recently that the packages they sent to Uganda were received. 

“Each fifth grade student brought a bag of candy for the children of New Hope Uganda, and made 100 friendship bracelets and cards,” said Amy Funderburk, fifth grade teacher. 

“Before the envelopes were sealed, students took pictures of themselves with their friendship bracelet and included it with their handmade cards.” 

Fifth grader Adam Johnson displays the bracelet and card he sent to Uganda

Uganda, a country along the equator, has a population of more than 30 million people. 

Matt and Jamie East of FCM said, “As we unpacked the candy and cards in Uganda, we were amazed by the love that Liberty students poured in to making the cards and envelopes extra special. 

“The day after we gave one of our students her gift, her mother came up to us crying and saying thank you for the card.” 

Children from Uganda show the cards and pictures they received from Liberty students

Ugandan girl receives her card from Liberty

“Dr. Daniels authored the manual Liberty cross-country uses as the basis for running performance and training,” said Lettau. 

Daniels serves as head cross country and track and field coach at Brevard (N.C.). He has produced five Olympians, 30 individual national champions, and 130 all-Americans in 35 years coaching. 

“Besides the pearls of wisdom and his personal recollections of greats such as Jim Ryan, Dr. Daniels was right there in person to answer our questions and interact with the audience,” said Lettau. 

“We also learned from other speakers who provided us with great cross country training tips that the Liberty staff will implement next season.”

The cost of the program is $275 per participant, and the cost is shared by the American Legion, the high schools, civic clubs, and individuals.

An orientation session will be at the Denton City Council chambers, 215 E. McKinney St., at 2 p.m. May 30.

Speakers will include city and county officials, a 2011 Boys State attendee, as well as briefings by the American Legion Post 71 and the American Legion Women’s Auxiliary.

The Boys State and Girls State attendees will be honored with a dinner at 7 p.m. July 17 at Post 71, 2501 Spencer Road, Denton.

Thank you to the Denton Record-Chronicle for the information for this story.

Connor McMann went 2 for 3, while Grier Nelson added a double. Hayden Holley pitched a complete game, striking out five in the victory.

The Warriors advance to face San Antonio Central Catholic at 2 p.m. Monday at Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton.

LIBERTY 6, EL PASO CATHEDRAL 2

WP — Hayden Holley. LP — George Martin. 2B — LC: Grier Newlan.

Thank you to the Denton Record-Chronicle for this story.

New National Honor Society Members

Congratulations to the newest members of Liberty’s National Honor Society. Twenty-two new members were named at the recent induction ceremony on Tuesday, April 17.

More than just an honor roll, NHS serves to honor students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service, and character.

Chapter membership not only recognizes students for their accomplishments, but challenges them to develop further through active involvement in school activities and community service.

Teacher and NHS Sponsor Ruthie Quam said, “NHS members serve in Liberty events throughout the year that include the annual canned food and teddy bear drive, Ride Ataxia, and Teacher Appreciation Week, to name a few.” 

NHS held its annual banquet on Monday, April 30, to honor graduating NHS seniors.

The new members of Liberty’s NHS are: Caleb Bishop, Bradley Christensen, Grace Dansby, Daniel Elsom, Hanna Elsey, Ali Gardner, Sydney Gresham, Malorie Grigg, Brooke Hadley, Jon-Aaron Howell, Sarah Jaderlund, Kole Kellner, Micah Lawler, Spencer Mackenzie, Macy Manning, Lauren Massing, Brooke McWilliams, Gavin Menichini, Brooke Morrissy, Hayley Schulze, Erin Selby, and Nevan Simone.

The new NHS officers for next year are: Luke Kornet, president; Clara Burr-Lonnon, vice president; Haylee Smith, secretary; Logan McDivitt, treasurer; and Jordan Liddell, parliamentarian.

Will McClain, Bonnie Blocker, and Johnny Alday at the NCTC writing contest (not pictured: Tiffany Lu)

Liberty Christian students competed in the North Central Texas College Creative Writing Contest, and winners were announced on Friday, April 13 at the Gainesville campus. Guest speaker was journalist and author, Joseph Galloway. 

In the Short Story category, freshmen Tiffany Lu and Johnny Alday won first and second place respectively in the Brad Dill Memorial Poetry and Short Story Contests for High School Students. 

In the Poetry category, junior Bonnie Blocker was named Honorable Mention. Eighth grader Will McClain was named First Honorable Mention in the Jerry Simpson Poetry Contest for Middle School students.

Ninth grade winners Tiffany Lu and Kristen Blomstrom

The Denton Dickens Fellowship, a group of Denton-area residents who share a love of the writings of Charles Dickens, sponsors an essay contest each spring, and winners were announced Thursday, April 12. Congratulations to the Liberty Christian students who took first and second place in the Category II–Grades 9 and 10, and Category III–Grades 11 and 12.

In Category II, ninth grader Tiffany Lu won first for her essay, “Dickens Before Dickens,” and ninth grader Kristen Blomstrom won second for her essay, “The Childhood of Charles Dickens.”

In Category III, senior Madeline Manning won first for her essay, “Believing the Best,” and senior Elizabeth Robinson won second for her essay, “Dickens’ Antagonists Anonymous.”

At the announcement of awards, the winners read their winning entries to the audience at the presentation.

L-R: Emery Fitzhugh with her dad, Mike; brother, Walt; mom, Michelle; and Kyle Bryant, originator of the ride

Liberty Christian School and its National Honor Society (NHS) volunteered in the Ride for Ataxia on March 24 at the University at North Texas.

Ride Ataxia benefitted the Friedreichs Ataxia Research Alliance (FARA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to research leading to a cure for this muscular dystrophy disorder that is debilitating and degenerative.

NHS helped to sponsor this ride in support of Liberty sixth grader, Emery Fitzhugh, who has Friedreichs Ataxia. Fitzhugh was featured on CBS’ Channel 11 last month before the ride.

The Outback Steakhouse partnered with FARA for a day that included physical achievement and family fun. 

Liberty students Katelynn Pearson and Emmy Edwards cheer on the riders

“Ride Ataxia was a wonderful event,” said teacher and NHS sponsor, Ruthie Quam. “Liberty students worked at a rest stop where they gave out snacks and water.” 

Quam said other Liberty students cheered for the riders as they crossed the finish line.

“These students also helped with loading and unloading supplies at different locations,” Quam said. “We even had some of our students ride in the event! 

“The whole day was a huge blessing. Students told me how much they enjoyed the event and wanted to be included in the event next year.” 

For the Channel 11 story, see: http://dfw.cbslocal.com/2012/03/23/north-texas-bike-a-thon-for-neuromuscular-disease/.

UAFS women’s basketball coach Louis Whorton was faced with the daunting task of replacing six seniors from this past season’s Heartland Conference Tournament runner-up team.

Only a few days into the spring signing period, the 26^th-year Lady Lions coach is quickly filling those spots with a host of talented prep standouts who will make up one of the most diverse recruiting classes in the program’s history.

“We had a lot of seniors this past year, so we knew this was going to happen. And, we have one junior, Tracey Parsons, who is going to go ahead and graduate early because she has taken care of her academics,” Whorton said. “So we may not have but two players who have touched a basketball for us next year. Sometimes that happens.”

Whorton recently signed five recruits – Rebecca Turko, a 6-foot-2 post from Plantation, Fla.; Brittany Holbert, a 5-7 point guard from Keller, Texas; Breanna Jones, a 5-10 forward from Farmington, Ark.; Tiffany Addison, a 5-2 point guard from Summerville, S.C.; and Danielle McFadden, a 5-6 combo guard from Sumter, S.C.

It will be Whorton’s largest recruiting class since UAFS joined NCAA Division II three years ago.            

“What we are going to try to do is get a couple of junior college kids to go with these freshmen and kind of balance the classes out and get them a little more equal,” Whorton said. “I’m not too worried about having this many freshmen. An old football coach said that if a dog is going to bite it will bite when it’s a pup. If kids are going to be college players, they’ll be college players as freshmen. We can’t wait to get them in here and get started.”

Holbert was a starter for the Liberty Christian School. She was Honorable Mention All-State, two-time Second Team All-District, two-time Defensive Player of the Year and two-time team captain.

As a junior, she helped lead the Lady Warriors to a 34-2 record and the TAPPS 5A State Championship.

She is a member of the National Honor Society and was four-time Academic All-District. She volunteers her time with the Special Needs Ministry and Special Olympics and works with the special needs children in a local school district extended school year program.

“She’s really more of a combo guard than she is a point, but she can play the one and the two,” Whorton said. “Brittany hurt her knee in the fall and didn’t actually play her senior season, and because of that, she was probably under-recruited. We had a chance to see Brittany play in AAU or else we wouldn’t have known about her. She’s an outstanding young lady and an outstanding student, and we think she will mature into a fine player.”

For the story in its entirety, please see:

http://www.uafortsmithlions.com/news/2012/4/19/WBB_0419124404.aspx?path=wbball