Today I want to begin with praise for God’s mercy. Last week Pastor Tenold, his wife Marie, and their young son Caleb were involved in a serious traffic accident. Thankfully they were able to walk away with some bruises and aches and pains, but nothing serious. Little Caleb walked away without suffering any bruises or injuries – he actually thought it was fun! Please keep them in your prayers.

 

Last weekend, some of our high school students attended the Creating for the Creator Youth Fair at the Lansing Seventh-day Adventist church. Pastor David Asherick delivered three powerful sermons that were deep and intellectually stimulating. This was the first time I had heard him preach and now I understand why he is always in demand. This was a great event for our young people where they enjoyed spiritual nourishment and fellowship with other Michigan Conference youth.

 

Our Leadership Conference attendees returned home safely. Ready to put their new leadership tools to use, they have decided to form a Student Council. They have already had their first meeting, gotten staff sponsors and developed a list of items that they will be working on in the near future.

 

The eighth graders and Mrs. Knutson returned from the LIFT Retreat this Wednesday. The keynote speaker was Pastor Jason North. His theme during the retreat was “When God Calls, Say Yes.” Special thanks are due to Mr. Sam Torres, and to Mr. John Rachor, who offered his services as camp nurse during the retreat.

 

Standardized testing begins next week. Elementary students in grades 1-8 and secondary students in grades 9 and 11 will be taking the Iowa Test of Basic Skills. Students in grade 10 will take the Differential Abilities Test—also known as the DAT—which is an evaluation tool designed to help students see where their strengths lie in regard to future professional aspirations. The data gathered from test scores allows teachers to make curricular changes that help strengthen the areas where students need help. 

 

NAD colleges and universities visited our campus during their annual “College Fair”. Their visit allows our students the opportunity to get a glimpse of the academic programs and cultural diversity available at our institutions of higher learning.

 

Our school kitchen continues to be a challenge. The inspector discovered an issue which does not allow for use of the stove.   Thankfully the high school classes have been creative and we have been able to continue offering hot lunches every day. Please pray that we can resolve this quickly since we need full use of our kitchen.

 

Mr. Knowles’ health message for this week:

 

As you worship this weekend I urge each of you to keep us in your prayers.

 

In His Service,

 

Mr. Velez

High School Principal