Category: News

Learning firsthand that students with dyslexia have many amazing gifts, Meredith Schott, TCS 3rd grade Bridge teacher, wanted to help a new generation of students discover that dyslexia can be a superpower. “I was diagnosed with dyslexia at a young age and was fortunate to have wonderful teachers that encouraged and supported me through elementary school. This prompted me to study education and become a teacher,” she says.  “I truly love reading and look forward to bringing a love of reading to my students.”

Meredith grew up in central Florida and now lives in Maitland with her husband Ryan, two boys, Kellen and Lucas, ages 8 and 10, and their dog, Bernie. “I went to Florida State University to study exceptional student education and have taught students in Florida for 9 years,” she says. “When not teaching, I enjoy being outdoors. I like to run, hike and bike. Because I enjoy reading so much, I am in a book club with my neighbors where we share and discuss a variety of novels.” 

“I am happy to be at The Christ School,” says Meredith. “TCS is a  wonderful Christ filled community. All of the staff and parents have been very encouraging and supportive as I have adjusted to a new school. It’s a wonderful place to work.”

Meredith shares her favorite Bible verse:
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.” – Galatians 2:20

Middle School

Cross Country
Championship Meet: Saturday, October 10, 9:50 am at Trinity Prep

Basketball  The season runs from October 26 to January 30. Practice will be:
Boys: Mondays and Wednesdays, 3:45-5:00 pm
Girls: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3:45-5:00 pm
Boys and Girls Basketball Tryouts will be held on Wednesday, October 14, 3:45-5:00 pm in the gym.
Please register online:
MS Boys Basketball Registration
MS Girls Basketball Registration

Fifth grade Science students have been learning about the scientific method. They have been working hard to correctly identify different types of variables as well as qualitative and quantitative data while conducting experiments. As an example, the students compared slope heights to determine the angle that would allow a marble to travel the farthest. Our 5th grade scientists reviewed how to properly measure distance as well as how to properly analyze data before writing a conclusion. What’s your guess? Would you use a slope made by putting a ramp on one book or two?

In my role at TCS, I have the privilege of collaborating with therapists and specialists across multiple disciplines of expertise. It is a blessing to spend time with these folks, especially in the areas of Occupational, Speech and Language development. At times it can be unclear on what a child needs to reach their full potential. As educators, we sometimes ask, “What is getting in the way?” This is when we seek support. In October, we will host Occupational, Speech and Language screenings for our K-1 students. We also coordinate screenings for older children displaying a concern in one of those areas. If you believe your child would benefit from any of these supports, please reach out to me! 

TCS second grade teacher, Karen Fattizi, and third grade teacher, Jennifer Raspallo, have recently earned their classroom educator certification from the Academy of Orton Gillingham (OG). They went above and beyond what is required in order to obtain this special certification. After their initial OG training, they committed to doing a practicum, with oversight from an OG Fellow, and undertook multiple observations from the Fellow for critique. They performed subsequent research on the subject, diving deep into the world of the science of reading to earn their classroom educator certification. Kudos to these amazing teachers for their hard work and dedication.

Congratulations to Monica Rowe, TCS Class of 2012, who has been accepted into Florida State University’s Medical School Graduate Program to become a Physician’s Assistant. Out of 2,000 applicants, Monica was one of 60 candidates selected for the program. Monica went through a rigorous vetting process including 10 interviews with a group of physicians and professors, weighing academic achievements, community service related to providing medical services, and demonstrated leadership qualities. She is in an elite group that received a unanimous vote for approval by the entire panel! After graduating from TCS, Monica completed the biomedical track at Cornerstone Academy where she was Valedictorian, was elected President of The Pre-P. A. Club at FSU and graduated with Honors with her Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences. #ONCEALIONALWAYSALION

Sixth grade Language Arts students are finishing a research project based off of the book A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park. The students read the book as part of their summer reading requirements and have spent the beginning of the year analyzing the book using literary terms such as plot, character, conflict, and setting. During class discussions, the students asked questions about the scenarios in the book, such as “Why didn’t the Dinka and Nuer tribes get along?”, “What was it like to live in a refugee camp?” and “How did the Lost Boys survive?” which led to a research project based off of those questions. As they did research, they practiced choosing credible sources, analyzing websites for bias, and learning about the consequences of plagiarism. This week in class the students are presenting their research, diving even deeper into the lives of Salva Dut and the people of South Sudan.

Our fall sports teams are heading into their final contests of the season. Our Volleyball teams played against Montverde Academy this past Monday. Our 8/7th grade team won and are currently undefeated! Our 6th grade team lost in a very close match. TCS Cross Country trailed behind second place by 3.5 seconds at their last meet. Great job Lions! Way to Roar!

Volleyball
Last Matches of the Season!
Monday, October 5, 4:30 pm at Trinity Prep
Next Practice:
Thursday, October 1, 3:45-5:00 pm in the gym.  

Cross Country
Next Meet:
Saturday, October 3, 9:50 am at Trinity Prep
Next Practice:
Thursday, October 1 and Monday, October 5, 3:45-4:45 pm.

Winter is around the corner! We are winding down our fall sports and opening up tryouts for the following winter sports. Details for practice and games are still to be determined. Please register online.

Middle School Soccer
The season runs from October 19, 2020 to January 22, 2021
Practice will be Monday and Wednesdays, 4:00-5:15 pm at MLK Park.
Boys and Girls Soccer tryouts will be held at MLK Park on Wednesday, October 7, 4:00 – 5:00 pm.
Click here for the MS Boys Soccer Registration
Click here for the MS Girls Soccer Registration

Middle School Basketball
The season runs from October 26, 2020 to January 30, 2021
Practice will be:
Boys: Mondays and Wednesdays, 3:45-5:00 pm
Girls: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 3:45-5:00 pm
Boys and Girls Basketball Tryouts will be held on Wednesday October 14, 3:45-5:00 pm in the gym.
Click here for the MS Boys Basketball Registration
Click here for the MS Girls Basketball Registration

Emily Wilkins, The Christ School’s STEAM teacher, brings her passion for active, collaborative learning to her classroom. “When I began teaching, I knew that I wanted to focus on providing students with a hands-on approach to learning. My goal for every class is to foster an environment that encourages students to work together with one another on projects that allow them to think critically and have connections to real world problems. In my STEAM classes, I can do just that! I enjoy guiding students to work through the engineering process, problem solve and create,” says Emily. 

“I am from the central Florida area, but moved around a lot when I was younger. I have also lived in Atlanta, GA, Fort Worth, TX, and Irvine, CA,” Emily says. “I earned my Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Central Florida in 2019. I loved my time at UCF so much that I am currently working on my Masters of Education there, specializing in gifted education. I am working on my thesis on math and science education. While living in California, I was given the opportunity to volunteer at a homeless shelter and work with children after school. It was there that I realized I really enjoyed working with children and fell in love with helping them to learn and grow. Once I was back in Florida, I started working on my degree to become a teacher. I am beyond blessed to be able to make an impact, large or small, on the lives of my students.”  

“I am happy to be teaching at The Christ School,” she says. “My favorite thing so far about TCS is the community. It has been wonderful to have to support and encouragement from those around me, especially as a newer teacher.”  

When not teaching or doing her own schoolwork, Emily loves to be outside. “I spend most of my weekends at the beach or kayaking,” she says. “I also enjoy going to Disney, thrift shopping and baking. And I love supporting UCF football (Go Knights!).”

Emily shares her favorite Bible verse:
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
– Proverbs 3:5-6.
“This was my confirmation verse, and it has become one that I always look to,” says Emily. 

Seventh grade Civics students are learning about the major types of government. To enhance their learning, they worked in groups and used gummy bears to create scenes that depicted democracies, oligarchies, anarchy, dictatorships, monarchies, and theocracies, without indicating which government was depicted. Students photographed their scenes and created google slides to share with their classmates, who guessed which government was being portrayed in each scene. The students reflected on the success of each group, discussed and wrote about what aspects made one group’s scenes more successful than others.

Our Cross Country team ran strong in their first meet and is getting ready for the next meet this Saturday, September 26, 9:50 am at Trinity Prep. This past Monday, our two volleyball teams headed out to The First Academy and each team brought home a win! We love our Lions! Way to Rock and Roar!

Volleyball
Next Matches:
Monday, September 28, 4:30 pm at The Christ School
Next Practices:
Thursday, September 24, and Tuesday, September 29, 3:45-5:00 pm in the gym.  

Cross Country
Next Meet:
Saturday, September 26, 9:50 am at Trinity Prep
Next Practice:
Thursday, September 24, and Monday, September 28, 3:45-4:45 pm.

The Christ School welcomes Samantha DeLullo as a 4th grade teacher. Samantha recently graduated cum laude from University of Maryland with a degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Human Development (“Go Terps!” she says). During college, she worked as a Children’s Ministry Director at a local church. “Ever since I was in the 1st grade, I have known that I wanted to be a teacher,” says Samantha. “It is my calling. I am so happy to be living out my dream!” 

“Upon visiting The Christ School, I quickly fell in love with the culture and environment,” she says. “I have enjoyed getting to know my students; I love learning and laughing with them. I look forward to starting book clubs in my classes to help instill a love of reading in each of them.” 

When asked to share some fun facts about herself, she says “I have a golden retriever named Princess, and I love ice cream.”

Samantha shares her favorite Bible verse:
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us. – Ephesians 3:20
“I have a big imagination so the thought of God having an even bigger one is just amazing,” says Samantha.  

Our Cross Country team ran last Saturday and came in a very respectable third place in their first meet. We are excited for the team and the meets to come! This past Monday, our 8th/7th grade volleyball team won against Lake Highland! Our 6th grade battled an all 8th/7th grade team and lost by only a few points. Nice job Lions! We are looking forward to the next matches.

Volleyball
Next Match:
Monday, September 21, 4:30 and 6:00 pm at The First Academy
Next Practices:
Thursday, September 17, and Tuesday, September 22, 3:45-5:00 pm in the gym.  

Cross Country
Next Meet:
Saturday, September 26, 9:50 am at Trinity Prep
Next Practice:
Thursday, September 17, and Monday, September 21, 3:45-4:45 pm.

Josh Smith, seventh and eighth grade Bible and Digital Media teacher, brings a joyful energy to his classroom and eagerly shares his love for Christ with his students. “I am so grateful to have joined The Christ School community,” says Josh. “My passion is to train, equip, and love the youth of this generation to know God and love people in whatever context they find themselves in throughout their lives.”  

Josh and his wife, Hillary, have two children, Melody who is 3 years old, and Tiger who is 10 months old. “My wife and I have been teaching children and sharing the Gospel in Cambodia for the past 3 years. We began a ministry (Cambodia4JesusChrist.com) focused on evangelism to the unreached and care for refugees. We are still blown away by the thousands of people we met who are refugees and have never heard about Jesus. We have been continuing our ministry through mission trips.  

Josh says, “I look forward to getting to know students at The Christ School and doing whatever I can to encourage them to be confident in who God made them to be. I have been very impressed by the students’ respect and humility at this school. It is clear that the parents and teachers at TCS have been involved and make a significant impact on the lives of these children. I pray that God continues to bless and use the students, parents, and staff at TCS for His glory.”

When asked to share a fun fact about himself, Josh does not disappoint: “I killed a rattlesnake and saved my sister when I was 11 years old,” he says. 

Josh shares his favorite Bible verse:
Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved. – Acts 4:12

Volleyball
First Matches of the season:
Monday, September 14, 4:30 pm and 6:00 pm at TCS!
Next Practices –  Thursday, September 10 and Tuesday September 15, 3:45-5:00 pm in the gym.  

Cross Country
First Meet of the season:
Saturday, September 12, 9:50 am at Trinity Prep
Next Practice – Thursday, September 10  

Coaches Spotlight
It is time to meet two more wonderful TCS coaches.Our head volleyball coaches are seasoned veterans, Coach Lindsey Carter and Coach Mark Marshall.

Lindsey Carter
Coach Carter has been coaching volleyball at TCS for five years. Prior to coaching our 8th grade team, Lindsey was the head varsity coach at Dr. Phillips High School from 2006 to 2015. Gratefully, God led her here to TCS. We are blessed to have such a great teacher of the game! Lindsey has been married to her husband, Richard for 10 years. They have two girls who are TCS Lions, Mackenzie (4th grade) and Savannah (2nd grade). Lindsey teaches Hope (PE/Health) online for Orange County. She loves the beach and boating. Lindsey is also sister to our own Angela Harrison, TCS Development Specialist. Lindsey shares her favorite Bible verse: Psalm 16:8-9 – I keep my eyes always on the Lord. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure.

Mark Marshall
Coach Marshall has been coaching for TCS since his daughter Montona played for the Lions in 2006, making this his fourteenth year coaching TCS volleyball! Coach Marshall has been a TCS parent, board member and consistently a faithful coach. When he is not coaching, Mark is a Financial Advisor and family man. He has been married to his wife Teri for 36 years. His daughter, Montana, is currently working on her masters in business. Coach Wiborg says, “One of my favorite facts about Coach Marshall is that he played football for FSU and for Coach Bobby Bowden.” 

We love our coaches!

We are pleased to welcome Jenny Smith, second grade teacher, to The Christ School. “Growing up in Orlando, I have always heard wonderful things about TCS,” she says. “I love its reputation for putting Christ at the center of everything, while simultaneously providing an excellent education for its students. Upon interviewing, God truly confirmed that this is where He led me and wanted me to be. My favorite thing about TCS is being able to worship, pray, and lead my students into a closer relationship with Jesus. It is also a blessing to be surrounded by a community of believers and educators that embody Jesus’ love, compassion, and kindness. The community at TCS is truly unlike any other, and I am so grateful that God led me here.” 

“This is my fourth year in the classroom, and I have loved every minute of being a teacher,” says Jenny. “I first knew I wanted to be a teacher when I was in third grade. I had the most incredible teacher that year who inspired me to follow in her footsteps. Her love for Jesus was evident in everything she did, and she was an incredible role model for me. We have kept in touch throughout the years, and I even had the joy of working with her during my first year in the classroom. I wanted to impact other people the way that she impacted me, which ultimately led to me becoming a teacher.” 

“Each day with my students brings so much joy,” Jenny continues. “The things I am most looking forward to this year are our class chapel day in March, creating and fostering a love of reading for my students, and seeing my students strengthen the friendships that they have with each other.” 

“I have two brothers and one sister,” says Jenny. “My older brother lives in Savannah, GA and owns restaurants. I have a twin brother who lives in Tampa and is a lawyer. My younger sister just started at FSU in their law school program. My mom and dad live in Orlando. I have three adorable and energetic dogs that I love spending time with. My hobbies include running, yoga, and going to the theme parks. I’m also a big fan of Chick-fil-A, Starbucks, and Target runs,” Jenny smiles. 

Jenny shares her favorite Bible verses:

“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
‭‭Jeremiah‬ ‭29:11

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. 
‭‭Proverbs‬ ‭3:5

“I consider these two verses my life verses, and they are the ones I always return back to when I need a refresher on God’s perspective. Jeremiah 29:11 is a comforting promise, as God promises that He knows His plans for us. He promises a future and a hope, no matter what season we may find ourselves in. I find joy and peace in the fact that there is no plan that is unknown to God. Proverbs 3:5 is also a great reminder to trust God and lean on His understanding, not our own. I have found peace, joy, and freedom in releasing my need to understand. Instead, I focus on trusting God and His Sovereignty,” she says.  

Middle school students have a new elective class offering this year to help them develop needed skills and learn more about things they enjoy. In IRIS (Investigate, Research, Innovate, and Share), students focus on topics of interest with guidance from their teacher. Students research various aspects of their topic and share their findings with the class through formal and informal presentations. IRIS students explore areas such as hobbies, careers, current events, historical impacts, influential figures, and travel destinations. This class empowers students to dive deeper into what interests them most and gives them opportunities to share their interests with their classmates, opening them up to new ideas and areas they may want to pursue.

Middle School 
Our volleyball and cross country teams are on their way! The first competitions are just around the corner.

Volleyball 
Next Practices –  Thursday, September 3, and Tuesday September 8, 3:45-5:00 pm in the gym.
First match of the season:
Monday, September 14, 4:30 pm at TCS!

Cross Country
Next Practice – Thursday, September 3, 4:00 pm
First meet of the season:
Saturday, September 12, 9:50 am at Trinity Prep

Please make sure all athletic  paperwork is turned in to the TCS office.

TCS Coach Spotlight
We are blessed with amazing coaches. We would like you to meet them! Our first Spotlight is on our middle school cross country head coach, Terra Townsend.

You may recognize Coach Townsend because she is also our Biblical Worldview, World History, Civics and Latin teacher. She is a proud mom of 2 TCS Lions and married to her best friend Gerald. This will be her 6th year here at TCS and her 4th year coaching our middle school cross country team. She loves  running and looks forward to long weekend runs to clear her mind! As of this spring, she has run a total of 27 half marathons and 2 full marathons in addition to countless 5Ks and 10Ks. Terra also is an avid crafter and reader and would rather read a book than watch TV any day. Coach Townsend’s hopes for this year is for each team member to have personal growth and improvement over the course of the season and to fall in love with running!  

We are delighted for you to get to know the teachers who have joined The Christ School team this year. We begin with Kathy Whitman, our 4th grade Bridge teacher. Kathy is a familiar face to many here at TCS, as she taught our lions for 12 years and rejoins us after a brief hiatus. Kathy says, “I’m a local girl, growing up and continuing to live in the downtown Orlando area. My family, all 25 of us, live within 5 miles of each other, so we are very close. I LOVE to travel and am ready to go anywhere. I also love to sing and have been fortunate enough to have performed with a group at Carnegie Hall a couple of years ago.”

This is my 22nd year teaching, says Kathy. “After a three-year sabbatical, I have returned to TCS to be a part of The Bridge program. It is a new and exciting time for the school and for me!

“My favorite thing about teaching 4th grade is the students! They are eager to learn,” Kathy continues. “I look forward to seeing the students light up with excitement to learn new things, have confidence in themselves, and celebrate the amazing talents each one has.”

 Kathy shares her favorite Bible verse:  Matthew 5:16 –
In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Welcome back TCS! We are very excited to see all of our Lions! As we start our fall journey, our sports season is under a little construction. Here are a few updates.

Middle School 
TCS will offer volleyball and cross country for middle school students this fall. Flag football is under consideration for our middle school league and we will let you know if that moves forward.

Volleyball
Volleyball Tryouts will be held September 1, 2 and 3 in the gym from 3:45 to 5:00 pm.  Please register online. Please be prepared with proper clothing, tennis shoes, knee pads, a mask and your own water bottle. Please do not forget your FHSAA paperwork and TCS Hold Harmless Waiver. All athletes will be temperature checked prior to entering the gym and must have all paperwork ready on the first day.

Cross Country
Cross Country practices will be Mondays and Thursdays, starting August 31, 4:00-4:45 pm on the green space. Practice will start in the Clayton Life Center Lobby. Please register online. Please be prepared with proper clothing, tennis shoes, a mask and your own water bottle.  Please do not forget your FHSAA paperwork and TCS Hold Harmless Waiver.  All athletes will be temperature checked prior to entering the gym and must have all paperwork ready on the first day.

Lower School
Lower school sports will begin with the winter season. Please stay tuned for updates and registration opportunities.

Welcome, parents! It is hard to believe I am starting my sixth year at TCS. It has been such a blessing and an adventure to say the least! This year brings another step in our journey to develop great learners with new faculty and programs. I am so excited to introduce you to the newest members of The Bridge and the Student Support Center (SSC). It has been incredible to witness this team already starting their pre-planning time with chemistry between one another, collaboration, and passion for the students they will teach. 

I believe TCS has become a landmark in Orlando that supports all kinds of learners. Our Student Support Center programs and The Bridge are prime examples of how we nurture learners to be successful in many ways. Within the SSC, we will continue to have our Enrichment program, Academic Support, and Intensive Reading opportunities. 20-21 also brings the inaugural year of The Bridge which serves students with dyslexia in grades 2-4. Our teachers will specialize in teaching the Orton Gillingham approach to reading and will utilize multisensory math techniques to make math memorable. Additionally, our teachers will build upon dyslexic strengths such as creativity and thinking outside of the box to support their social emotional needs and self-confidence. 

I invite you to join me in prayer for our new teachers and programs at TCS. I am honored to introduce the SSC and The Bridge team to our TCS family! 

Courtney Morgan, 2nd grade Bridge teacher, earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish Linguistics from the University of Iowa. Courtney’s experience includes teaching in both public and private schools to a wide range of age groups from Pre-K through 12th grade as well as adults in corporate settings and students with language and learning differences. Courtney holds a reading endorsement and is trained in Orton Gillingham and Multi-sensory Math.

Meredith Schott, 3rd grade Bridge teacher, earned her Bachelor and Master of Science degrees in Learning Disabilities and Emotional Disturbances from Florida State University. She also holds a Florida Teaching Certification in K-6 general education and K-12 ESE education. Meredith’s experiences include 9 years of teaching in the state of Florida working with students with learning differences providing small group instruction. 

Kathy Whitman, 4th grade Bridge teacher, earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Florida State University. She also holds a Florida Teacher Certification K-6, Gifted Education Endorsement, and is trained in Orton-Gillingham and Multisensory Math. Kathy has been an educator for over 20 years, in both public and private schools, including 12 years at The Christ School. She’s blessed to be returning to TCS and excited to be a part of The Bridge program this year.

Meggen Breen, multisensory math teacher, received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education and her Master of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Florida. She is also a Wilson Dyslexia Practitioner. Meggen’s experience includes teaching in public school, serving as a reading coach and as a private tutor. She is pursuing additional certifications in Orton Gillingham and Multi-Sensory Math. While she is not at school, Meggen loves spending time with her family at the beach. 

Jennie Farrant, Bridge Instructional Specialist, attended college at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Child and Adolescent Psychology. She went on to earn her Interrelated Special Education Certification from the University of Georgia and then a Master of Education degree in Reading Instruction and a Reading Endorsement from the University of West Georgia. Mrs. Farrant is an Associate with the Academy of Orton Gillingham (OG) and is currently working toward certification at the Certified Level. She has also been trained in Multisensory Math and is pursuing Practitioner Certification. Mrs. Farrant has been in education for over ten years in a variety of capacities. She has experience teaching in both a private and public school setting, in general and special education classrooms, and working one-on-one with students as a tutor. In her free time, Mrs. Farrant enjoys spending time with her husband and two boys, reading, shopping, and doing puzzles. 

Nicole Hamilton, Bridge reading teacher, earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Health with a minor in Health Education from University of North Florida. She is certified in ESE, Prek-3rd, and Varied Exceptionalities. Nicole’s career has focused on children with developmental disabilities and learning differences. She has taught in both private and public school settings, in addition to  private tutoring. Nicole is pursuing her Associate level certification through the Academy of Orton Gillingham Practitioners and Educators. When Nicole is not at school she can be found running around with her 2 year old son, crafting with her 5 year old daughter, and laughing with her husband. Nicole is excited to join The Christ school team to be in a Christ-centered learning environment and  be near her daughter as she enters TK. 

Yvonne Doria, Academic Support and Intensive Reading Specialist, has her bachelor’s degrees in both theater and journalism from the University of Florida (Go Gators!) and her master’s in Education from New England College. Throughout her career, Yvonne has worked in the public school and private school setting as well as a private tutor as an executive functioning coach and remediation specialist. Yvonne’s educational experience spans nine years in both the Northeast and in Florida as a learning specialist, intensive reading teacher, English teacher, and acting teacher across all grades (elementary through high school as well as adults as a private coach). She is trained in Wilson and Orton Gillingham and specializes in the remediation and intervention of Dyslexia, executive dysfunctions and behavior. This is Yvonne’s second year at The Christ School. This year, she will be joining us full-time along with her daughter, Linea, who will be starting her first year here at TCS in TK. Outside of school, Yvonne’s happy place is in the mountains.

Evelyn Salinero, Enrichment and Academic Support teacher, obtained a Master’s degree in Reading Education from the University of Central Florida, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Exceptional Student Education from Barry University. Evelyn is also ESOL endorsed and working towards a Gifted and Talented endorsement. She has over 17 years working with children in varying roles in both private and public schools. Evelyn’s passion is to reach each child’s potential and help them thrive. Having worked in the Caribbean with students with learning differences is one of her proudest moments. 

Vicki Taulbee, Academic Support and Classroom Assistant, earned her BA in special education from FSU. Vicki has worked as a classroom teacher and homeschooled her three children for six years before bringing them to The Christ School where she has worked as a receptionist and first grade aide for the past two years. During that time she received Orton Gillingham training and worked with small groups of students to improve their reading skills. Vicki is thrilled to have the opportunity to work more closely with the Bridge program, supporting both students and teachers.  

Our teachers are excited to meet their students on Monday, August 24! We recognize the value in having our families visit classrooms and thank you for your patience as we structure this day differently to follow health and safety guidelines. Sign up information was sent to families earlier today. Please contact Shelby Dunlap, Assistant to the Academic Office, if you did not receive it.

Families may select to meet their teacher in person or virtually via Zoom. The sign-up links will be live until 12:00 pm this Friday, August 21.

As you prepare to come to campus next Monday, please make note of the following items as you sign up for a time slot:

• When families arrive, they will remain under the Angel Wing until five minutes prior to their time slot.

• At that time, families will head towards the main steps where they will undergo a wellness check before entering the building.

• While in the building, face coverings will be required for all visitors.

• After your appointed slot, please exit out one of the two side doors, which will be identified for your convenience.

We know this is a time of unknowns in many areas and we hope that seeing the academic spaces here on campus will provide you some insight and comfort as we welcome students back next Wednesday. We are committed to guiding students through this unique start and creating a compassionate and consistent routine which allows us to continue inspiring a love of learning and a love for the Lord no matter the circumstances.

Please contact Alissa Plaisance, Michael Noto or TJ Ross if you have any questions.

As our nation prepares for George Floyd’s memorial service today at 1:00 pm, I, like you, see the pain and injustice in our world. How a police officer, or any human being, can do what was done is beyond me and hard for me to understand. Amidst the death of George Floyd and others and the unrest in our community and nation, I am reminded of how broken our world is and of our desperate need for a Savior. 

As The Christ School community, I ask that you join me in prayer today at 1:00 pm. Please pray for George Floyd’s family, for the injustice in our nation, and that change will be achieved through light and love. 

“Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.

Let us stand in the light,

Aaron Farrant, Ed.D.
Head of School

Middle School
Track and Field
Next Track Meet: Monday, March 23 4:00 pm at Trinity Prep
Next practice at Boone High School: Wednesday, March 25 4:30-6:00 pm

Volleyball
The middle school volleyball clinic is open for registration. 
The clinic will be held on April 27, 28, 29 – 3:45-5:00 pm in the gym
Try-outs will be held on Thursday, April 30, 3:45-5:00 pm

Lower School
Basketball
3rd-5th grade Basketball
Next practice, Wednesday, March 25, 3:30-4:15 pm in the gym.
Last Games of the Season, Saturday, March 28, at Lake Nona Middle School
3rd grade- 9:00 am
5th/4th grade Gold 10:30 am
5th/4th grade Green – 10:30 am

3rd and 4th grade Volleyball
Registration for 3^rd and 4^th grade spring volleyball is open. The registration deadline is Monday, March 23. Volleyball season will begin with practice on April 1 and end the week of May 11. Practice will be held once a week at TCS from 3:30 to 4:30 pm. The practice day is still to be determined. There will be four weeks of games ending with a tournament. Game locations will be determined by the league and are not yet available. Games will be played on Mondays at 4:00 pm. We are looking for coaches! Please prayerfully consider helping out as a coach. Let Gina Wiborg, Director of Athletics, know if you are interested. A TCS Hold Harmless Form is required. Please note a one-time $35 Athletic fee will be charged to your FACTS account.

3rd, 4th and 5th grade Cross Country Clinic
Registration is open for the cross country clinic for students in 3rd, 4th and 5th grades. The registration deadline is Friday, March 27. The clinic will be held on April 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29, from 3:30 to 4:15 pm at TCS. Our fabulous cross country coach, Terra Townsend, will be leading the clinic. A TCS Hold Harmless Form is required. Please note: a one-time $35 Athletic fee will be charged to your FACTS account.

TK-2nd grade
Soccer Shots
Next class:
1st and 2nd grade – Thursday – March 12, 3:30-4:05 pm
TK and K – Tuesday – March 24, 3:30-4:05 pm

Do you have an interest in becoming certified in scuba diving? How about a hiking and camping trip along the Appalachian Trail or exploring the New Mexico mountains on horseback?  Would you like to learn fantastic leadership skills that could lead to a national distinction that very few people achieve? If so, then we invite you to learn more about Boy Scout Troop 24 right here at First Presbyterian Church of Orlando! Troop 24 is the longest, continuously chartered Boy Scout Troop in Central Florida with a rich tradition of leadership, learning new skills and FUN! Pack 24 is available for boys from first to fourth grades. No previous Cub Scout or Boy Scout experience is necessary. We are actively recruiting new members and encourage you to attend our next Recruitment Night on Monday, April 6, at 7pm. If you are unable to attend on April 6, but have questions about scouting, please contact Julie Mitchell, Recruitment Chair, at JulieMitchell@TheCollegeMap.com who would be happy to schedule a time for you to visit the Troop. Please contact Cub Master Jayson Lopez at jayson.lopez@hotmail.com for more information on Pack 24.

TCS Transitional Kindergarten (TK) and Kindergarten Lions have been exploring musical theater performance and are taking center stage in their own productions. Last week, our TK students performed “The Little Engine that Could Sing.” Tomorrow, kindergarten students will perform “The Three Piggy Opera.” These musical presentations were created by educators and adapted specifically for young children. The performance opportunities provide a multi-sensory experience for our students as they explore music, movement, drama, and art. Our teachers have enjoyed watching their confidence grow as they learn their lines and step into the spotlight!

The 6th grade students visited Kennedy Space Center (KSC) as a precursor to their Science studies on the solar system and the universe. While there, the students visited the incredible Atlantis exhibit, experienced a simulated Saturn V rocket launch, relived the final moments of the Apollo 11 moon landing, saw the launch pads up close and learned about the future of space flight and exploration. It was an incredible day filled with eye-opening historical events that have shaped who we are as a country. In the weeks to come, students will be applying their KSC experiences to learning more about space exploration and understanding what our great universe has to hold.

Middle School
Track and Field
Next Track Meet:
Monday, March 9, 4:00 pm at The First Academy
Next practice at Boone High School:
Thursday, March 12, 4:30-6:00 pm

Volleyball
The middle school volleyball clinic is open for registration. 
The clinic will be held on April 27, 28, 29 – 3:45-5:00 pm in the gym
Try-outs will be held on Thursday, April 30, 3:45-5:00 pm

Lower School
Basketball
3rd, 4th and 5th grade co-ed teams
Next practice will be Wednesday, March 11, 3:30-4:15 pm in the gym.
Next games are on Saturday, March 7 at Lake Nona Middle School
3rd grade- 9:00 am
5th/4th grade Gold -10:30 am
5th/4th grade Green -10:30 am

3rd and 4th grade Volleyball
Registration for 3^rd and 4^th grade spring volleyball is open. The registration deadline is Monday, March 23. Volleyball season will begin with practice on April 1 and end the week of May 11. Practice will be held once a week at TCS from 3:30 to 4:30 pm. The practice day is still to be determined. There will be four weeks of games ending with an end of season tournament. Game locations will be determined by the league and are not yet available. Games will be played on Mondays at 4:00 pm. We are looking for coaches! Please prayerfully consider helping out as a coach. Let Gina Wiborg, Director of Athletics, know if you are interested. A TCS Hold Harmless Form is required. Please note a one-time $35 Athletic fee will be charged to your FACTS account.

3rd, 4th and 5th grade Cross Country Clinic
Registration is open for the cross country clinic for students in 3rd, 4th and 5th grades. The registration deadline is Friday, March 27. The clinic will be held on April 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29, from 3:30 to 4:15 pm at TCS.  Our fabulous cross country coach, Terra Townsend, will be leading the clinic. A TCS Hold Harmless Form is required. Please note: a one-time $35 Athletic fee will be charged to your FACTS account.

TK-2nd grade
Soccer Shots
First class:
1st and 2nd grade – Thursday, March 5, 3:30-4:05 pm
Next class:
TK and Tuesday, March 10, 3:30-4:05 pm

Congratulations to our 4th and 5th grade Odyssey of the Mind team “The Master’s Mind” for earning 4th place at the regional tournament this past Saturday advancing them to the state tournament!  Seven TCS 4th and 5th grade students participated in this international, creative problem-solving competition using critical-thinking, imagination and collaboration to solve both long-term and spontaneous problems. Led by TCS dad and Director of Lower School, Michael Noto, and TCS mom Kathleen Rinka, the team has worked diligently over the past three months to solve the long-term mystery of “The Ghost Ship: Mary Celeste.”  As the team presented their mystery solution, they were calm, composed and confident (which, spoiler alert, definitely involved gold, betrayal and a kraken). We are excited to see them shine at the state tournament. Join us as we cheer on our Odyssey of the Mind team “The Master’s Mind” on April 11 at the Orange County Convention Center.  Way to ROAR Lions!

Seventh grade Civics students have been studying the Electoral College. They first learned about how the system works, analyzing maps and charts to help deepen their understanding. Next, they read opposing articles on the system with one article supporting the system and another arguing to replace it with a national popular vote. Finally, the students were assigned a side to argue and were tasked with finding further textual evidence to support their side. Last week, they participated in a debate where they had to back up their opinions with textual evidence and ask questions of one another. “The students gained so much from the activity,” says their teacher, Mrs. Hoyer. “They learned the value of empathy by perhaps having to defend an opinion different from their own, they learned how to back up and strengthen arguments with facts, and they did a phenomenal job of having a thoughtful and respectful discussion. Ask a 7^th grade student how the Electoral College works and the controversy surrounding it because they are now experts!”