March 20, 2009
F I E L D T R I P S
In February, our students had the opportunity to meet award-winning children’s book author Lola Schaefer, who was conducting writing classes at Southern Adventist University. She shared tips on making a story compelling, using figurative language and “showing instead of telling.”
On Tuesday this week, both classrooms visited the Archaeological Museum at SAU to see nearly 200 artifacts, objects, works of art and photographs from the Middle East. Students also viewed an exhibit of coins from Greece, Rome, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon and Israel covering 600 years of history.
The Board of the Native American Pow Wow on the River has reserved Friday, April 3, for all area schools to participate in its annual educational festival held in the First Tennessee Pavilion.
Demonstrations of handicrafts, trades, games, dances and instruments will be held between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Students also will experience native stories and music. Cost per child is $3 with no fee for teachers or adults. Free parking is available, and drivers are needed.
E D U C A T I O N A L A S S I S T A N C E F U N D D E C L I N E S
Like so many other investment accounts in our current economy, the fund that helps the Apison Church School provide educational assistance to students has decreased in value. Since the decision has been made not to withdraw monies from that fund at this time, the LCA School Board is now faced with a monthly deficit for helping families that need and depend on tuition subsidy. On their own, some parents cannot afford to pay the full cost for their children to attend our school.
The school’s most recent financial report, provided by new treasurer Mark Eirich, indicates that the Educational Assistance account will be in the red (negative) by more than $1,000 at the end of May.
Additionally, the electric bill for the school has been unusually high, and tuition income has dropped with several students leaving school due to family circumstances. Thankfully, temperatures are warming, and two students (one new and one returning) recently enrolled. Still, without a consistent increase in financial contributions, our school will struggle to remain open for the long term. Roughly $10,000 is needed each year, in addition to the Apison Church’s subsidy and the Lamb’s Offering, to keep the school operating in the black.
LCA’s teachers and board members realize that many individuals and families are battling their own financial struggles right now. At the same time, the board doesn’t want to miss an opportunity to raise awareness of the school’s needs. God has richly blessed our educational institution through generous supporters, and we humbly call upon you once again in our time of need. Without adding financial burdens or usurping money designated for the operation and administration of our local churches, we ask that you prayerfully consider making a financial contribution to the school, specifically for the Educational Assistance Fund.
The lives of our young people are being shaped and molded for God’s work each and every day through the Apison Church School. Please help us continue to offer such a marvelous resource to the future leaders of our local community and our world church. We can’t do it without you!
P A R E N T S’ C O R N E R
Tips for the Morning Commute
by Laura Byrd
I’m not a morning person. When my parents used to take me to school in the morning, the drive was often very quiet since none of us were fully awake yet. If this is a situation you find yourself in frequently, take advantage of the opportunity to hide God’s Word in your heart and in the hearts of your children. This is a great chance to break the silence by playing scripture songs or Biblical education songs (like books of the Bible, 10 commandments, etc.) for your kids. Who knows? Before long you might find that you are all singing along, even on those early morning rides.
M E S S A G E F R O M M R S. B A R T O
I’ve been back in the saddle for almost two weeks now and let me tell you, it feels good to return. I missed all my kids and all my parents, though I thoroughly enjoyed my time with my babies. I appreciate how well my class behaved in my absence. It was such a relief not to have to worry about them causing chaos for the substitute. Because of that, I was able to enjoy my leave to its fullest. I was told time and time again how much of a joy it was to be able to work with my students. Little Arleigh is full of grins and giggles and is growing fast, almost as fast as her big sister Aurelia. Just this week Aurelia has learned how to pray before her meals, and it is the most precious sight to see her fold her hands and look up at you with anticipation, as if to say, “It’s not time to eat yet, Mommy!” Even better is watching her stop in the middle of her meal, fold her hands and close her eyes, and babble for a few seconds, then look up at you with the biggest smile. Even though I don’t understand her prayer, God certainly does.
Next school year, I will be passing the administrative reins over to Mr. Sargeant. In my 12 years of teaching, I have been principal all but two years and I am ready to let someone else fill that role. I look forward to being able to spend more time with my family and at the same time, put a little more effort into my classroom. I’ve enjoyed working with our school board and am so grateful for all the help they have given to fill in the gaps where I lack skill or knowledge. I’m also grateful to Mr. Sargeant for being willing to take on the additional responsibilities. Thank you, my church and school family, for a great seven years at Apison.
Posted by writetina 