Issue 53-10 | October 2023 | | God is doing exciting things here at NC as we make an impact around the globe. We invite you to be a part of this movement in providing the next generation with a Christ-centered education. Together, we can equip students with a Biblical worldview that helps to foster a love relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. | |
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Tim Hekrdle
Nebraska Christian Schools Superintendent
We recently invited grandparents to campus to participate in ‘Grandparents Day’. I opened up with a Scripture reading from Genesis 5:1-5 with a simple teaching. Mankind was made ‘to be like himself.’ That is to say, that man was made in the image of God. This simple, but foundational, principle speaks into our worldview about as much as any other. The world wants to define man as a mass of living cells without value, but we know that we are made in the image of God, the almighty Creator of the universe. In verse 2 it reads, “he created them male and female, and he blessed them and called them "human". You don’t have to get very far in the Bible to know that God assigns gender and both God-given genders provide identity to who and how God made us. Admittedly, yes, I share this somewhat because culture is trying to convince our children and the world differently, but also because this very simple principle drives the mission and vision of our school. A big part of our effort in providing a Christian Education through a Biblical Worldview and fostering a love relationship with Jesus Christ includes the shaping of the very heart and soul of the students that make up Nebraska Christian Schools.
I shared this passage as a reminder of the responsibility that grandparents, parents, and educators have in helping to shape and mold these students to realize God’s will for their lives. At the very root of this cause is pushing students to Scripture and dependence on Christ. There is no doubt that the pull of the world is great. In Romans 12, Scripture makes it clear. Unless these young people are empowered by the Holy Spirit to be transformed into His image, they will otherwise be conformed into what the world defines as teenager, student, man, woman, or athlete. What does the world say a teenager should do? What does the world say are the characteristics of man? If you are unsure of these answers watch a sitcom or two and you will quickly find those definitions, habits, and tendencies being acted out to resemble such. If conformed to the world’s definitions, catastrophic decisions are made. This is, at least in part, what is at stake within the purpose of our school.
The ministry of Nebraska Christian Schools is a worthwhile investment only because there is something much, much bigger than the school at stake within it. If we are living out the mission and vision, we truly are building lives for eternity.
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Nebraska Christian's Homecoming week was a whirlwind of excitement and creativity, with students and faculty alike enthusiastically participating in a range of themed dress-up days. From Minion Day to Hawaiian/Beach Day, Twin/Group Day, and finally, the grand finale of School Spirit Day, the campus was abuzz with vibrant costumes and a palpable sense of camaraderie. The creative spirit of the school community shone through, making it a memorable and fun-filled week.
The pinnacle of Homecoming week arrived on Friday with a lively pep rally featuring several fun-filled games (in which a few lucky teachers participated!), setting the stage for the much-anticipated Homecoming football game against Wisner-Pilger. The event was more than just a game; it was a reunion of NC alumni spanning many years and generations. The atmosphere was electric as friends, families, and alumni gathered to enjoy delicious treats, including snow cones and mouthwatering BBQ pork expertly prepared by Mike Flynn. The Alumni tent, curated by the talented NC Development and Special Events Coordinator, Mrs. Brandi Flynn, offered a delightful assortment of snacks and goodies, along with a basket of NC Alumni merchandise, which was raffled off at the end of the night.
It was a special time as alumni were honored at half-time, taking the spotlight at the 50-yard line in front of a packed home crowd. The festivities continued with an exhilarating game of Human Piñata, where some speedy NC students, and even some staff and faculty members, dashed around on the football field in an attempt to emerge victorious. The evening reached its climax as the entire NC senior class of 2024 was introduced and celebrated after the game, adding a beautiful touch to an evening filled with delicious food, cherished memories, and the warmth of good friends. It was a day to remember, and for the Eagles, a testament to their enduring school spirit.
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If you or someone you know is a graduate of Nebraska Christian Schools and is interested in joining the tight-knit alumni community, find our group on Facebook to keep in touch with your former classmates.
Check us out by clicking this link or scanning the QR Code.
| | Secondary Students Visit SCC: Careers in Construction Day & UNK Health Careers Fair | |
In September, Nebraska Christian students had the incredible opportunity to expand their horizons and explore potential career paths through two exciting field trips: Southeast Community College's Careers in Construction Day, and the University of Nebraska at Kearney's Health Career Fair.
SCC’s Careers in Construction Day proved to be an eye-opening experience for ten Nebraska Christian juniors and seniors. The event showcased the diversity and demand within the construction industry, highlighting the wide array of high-impact, technology-driven careers it offers. With hands-on opportunities to explore different construction-related fields, students were guided by industry leaders and SCC instructors, as well as assisted by current SCC students. At various stations around the campus, they engaged in activities like bricklaying and concrete placement, land surveying, and welding, among others, gaining valuable insights into the world of construction. This interactive experience left students not only informed but also inspired by the multitude of tools, tasks, and job opportunities available in the field.
Just a week later, Nebraska Christian students embarked on another enlightening journey, this time to the University of Nebraska at Kearney's Health Career Fair. This fair served as a window into the vast array of careers within the healthcare industry. Employers from Kearney, Lincoln, Omaha, Beatrice, North Platte, and other communities gathered to connect with students and showcase the diverse opportunities available. Beyond introducing students to careers in health science, communication disorders, athletic training, mental health counseling, and more, the event also acted as a recruitment tool for UNK. The collaboration between UNK and the University of Nebraska Medical Center further expands educational opportunities in Kearney, emphasizing the importance of healthcare in rural Nebraska through programs like the Kearney Health Opportunities Program (KHOP) and the Health Science Explorers program. Six Nebraska Christian high schoolers had the privilege of participating in this enriching event and left with newfound knowledge about the multitude of career options in the healthcare industry and a sense of gratitude for the valuable insights they gained.
These field trips not only broadened the students' horizons but also provided them with a real-world perspective on potential career paths. The experiences they gained through SCC's Careers in Construction Day and UNK's Health Career Fair will undoubtedly prove invaluable as they navigate their futures and make informed decisions about their careers. Our students are provided an Advisory period three days each week. One of those days is committed to career and college connections and we have an opportunity to shape this conversation through a Biblical lens. We are always looking for guest speakers and partnerships to help our students see how they, too, can live their lives in just about any career field and be faithful to Christ while doing so.
| | National Recognition Awardee: Ah-Rim Lee | |
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We’re celebrating our own Ah-Rim Lee, one of 72,000 students from across the country who earned academic honors from College Board’s National Recognition Programs! She received an award from the National Rural and Small Town Committee. The National Recognition Programs honor the strong academic achievements of underrepresented students. They are an easy way for students to showcase their hard work in high school. The programs not only benefit students but also benefit colleges looking to recruit diverse and talented students.
When asked about her recognition, Ah-Rim stated “I was very surprised! I hadn’t received as high of a score as I had hoped, but I am very honored to be recognized.” She went on to say, “This award gave me the motivation to pursue and study hard for the SAT”.
There’s so much that makes students like Ah-Rim unique. That’s an asset to colleges and programs. The National Recognition Programs help students like Ah-Rim find ways to celebrate that uniqueness. Eligible students apply on BigFuture. They have a GPA of 3.5 or higher and are the top 10% of PSAT/NMSQT® or PSAT™ 10 assessment takers in each state for each program or have earned a score of 3 or higher on two or more AP® Exams. One of the qualifiers for this recognition included her attendance in a rural setting in Nebraska Christian Schools. They’re invited to apply during their sophomore or junior year.
“Making the PSAT/NMSQT available provides an additional opportunity for students to demonstrate academic excellence,” stated NC Counselor Shilo Birnie. “God gives each of us unique giftings, and it’s important to work to the best of our abilities to the glory of the Lord.” She went on to say, “This is a great way to practice and prepare for upcoming tests like the SAT and the ACT, which can help provide college scholarships to students.”
Congratulations, Ah-Rim!
| | Elementary Students visit the Stuhr Museum | |
In a delightful educational adventure, a few of Nebraska Christian's elementary classes embarked on a field trip to the Stuhr Museum on September 15th. At the heart of their visit was a journey back in time as they stepped into the Stuhr Museum schoolhouse for the 4th graders, where they experienced firsthand what school life was like in 1888. The students had the unique opportunity to sit in a one-room schoolhouse and even tried their hand at writing with quill and ink, gaining a deep appreciation for the challenges of education in days gone by.
For the 3rd graders, the adventure continued with a captivating exploration of community building. They delved into the inner workings of a homestead, took turns working at the post office, and even found themselves "locked up" in a local jail cell, all while bonding with their classmates and creating lasting memories.
Meanwhile, the 1st-grade class also embarked on a day of discovery at the Stuhr Museum. They experienced the art of teamwork as they learned how to build and dismantle a teepee, gaining a profound understanding of Native American traditions. They further explored earth lodges, where they engaged with period-appropriate toys and games, immersing themselves in the lives of early inhabitants.
In the end, each of Nebraska Christian's elementary students left the Stuhr Museum with smiles on their faces and a wealth of knowledge about life in the 1800s and early 1900s. Their field trip was a remarkable opportunity for hands-on learning, fostering a love for history and an appreciation for the diverse experiences of the past. This is just one of many experiences that help to shape and form the worldview of these young believers.
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Better Together!
NCCA & New Hope Teachers Observed NC Classrooms
| | The Lord continues to provide unique and strategic opportunities to grow Christian Education in South Central Nebraska. On Friday morning, September 22nd, the Nebraska Christian elementary teachers graciously opened their classrooms to colleagues from New Hope as well as Nebraska Christian Classical Academy (NCCA), offering them a firsthand glimpse into the strong teaching practices taking place at our campus. The exchange was a true blessing, as it allowed our educators to share the incredible work they do, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and an environment where ideas could flourish. Through this meaningful interaction, we not only strengthened the bonds within our educational community but also sowed the seeds of inspiration for future endeavors and continued connections in our Christian Education community. | |
Kaffeeklatsch
A Delightful Blend of Coffee and Conversation
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On Monday, September 25, a unique and heartwarming event unfolded at Espressions Coffee Shop in Aurora. The inaugural Kaffeeklatsch (a German term for an informal social gathering of coffee and conversation), organized and led by Nebraska Christian Schools' German classes, brought together German speakers from the school, the surrounding area, and even Germany for an unforgettable morning of coffee and conversation. The event's resounding success left attendees craving more, and plans for monthly gatherings are already in the works.
Espressions Coffee Shop, with its cozy ambiance and aromatic brews, served as the perfect setting for this linguistic rendezvous. Beginning at 10:30 in the morning, the event welcomed German language enthusiasts of all proficiency levels, reinforcing the idea that language is a bridge that unites people regardless of their backgrounds.
Dr. Ross Etherton, the enthusiastic German teacher at Nebraska Christian Schools, was the driving force behind bringing Kaffeeklatsch to life. "It was amazing to see everyone come together," remarked Dr. Etherton, reflecting on the event's warm and welcoming atmosphere. He encouraged everyone, whether they were students or locals, to attend and experience the magic of Kaffeeklatsch.
The event was attended by a diverse group of participants. Students from the German II and III classes at Nebraska Christian Schools eagerly participated in the event. Volynn Wall, an NC junior and German III student, spoke about how she had looked forward to this coffee hour for a long time, “I was excited to be a part of this opportunity.”
In total, there were six Nebraska Christian students and an impressive ten German speakers in attendance, none of whom were native to Aurora. The international flavor of the event was highlighted by the presence of two individuals from Cologne, Germany, who were visiting the area and added a new level of authenticity to the gathering. Attendees journeyed from as far away as Broken Bow and Stromsburg to partake in this cultural exchange. Dr. Etherton expressed his delight, saying, "It was so wonderful to have them all there." The morning transcended mere language learning: it became an opportunity for diverse communities to converge and share their love for the German language and culture.
The success of the inaugural Kaffeeklatsch has left everyone eager for more. Dr. Etherton and the enthusiastic student participants have set their sights on making this event a regular occurrence. NC Senior Mallory Paul was incredibly excited to be a part of this event. “The event was a blast and we all learned so much […] We all sat around in the back room, sipping on coffee while enjoying each other’s company and speaking German. It was relaxed and flowed nicely. Volynn echoed Mallory’s statements, saying, “Everyone should join, it is a lot of fun and you can learn a lot.” Plans are already underway to organize monthly gatherings that will continue to foster connections and promote the German language in Nebraska.
As the first Kaffeeklatsch came to a close, the echoes of laughter, the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee and pastries, the positive energy, and the sound of German conversations filled the air. This event was not just about language; it was about building bridges, creating friendships, and celebrating the richness of cultural diversity. In the heart of Aurora, Kaffeeklatsch at Espressions has brewed something truly special, and its future gatherings promise to be even more delightful. Whether you're a seasoned German speaker or just curious about the language, Dr. Etherton welcomes all to join the next Kaffeeklatsch experience with a cup of coffee and conversation.
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Volleyball Achievements
Ali Bruning and Coach Schreiber Hit Impressive Milestones
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The Nebraska Christian Varsity Volleyball team, under the guidance of Coach Amy Schreiber, is once again making waves with an outstanding season. Coach Schreiber recently achieved a significant career milestone, celebrating her 100th victory during the Eagles' home triangular match with Elba and Gibbon on August 29th. This achievement is a testament to her dedication and leadership, which have played a pivotal role in the team's success. With Schreibers' total record now climbing to 110 career wins as of September 26, the 2023 Varsity Volleyball season continues to reach new heights.
In addition to Coach Schreiber's milestone, senior setter Ali Bruning has also left her mark on the court. During a thrilling match against Lincoln Christian, Ali reached an impressive milestone of her own, tallying her 2,500th career assist. By the end of the game on September 26th, her total career assists had climbed to an impressive 2,523. Both Coach Schreiber and Ali Bruning embody Christ-like values and exemplify ambition, inspiring the team to reach new heights. Their positive influence and dedication remind us that it's not just about winning on the court; it's all for the glory of God.
| | A New Face in the Kitchen! | |
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Nebraska Christian is happy to announce the addition of a new member to our dedicated Kitchen Staff, Mrs. Taneasha Eckstrom! Taneasha, her husband Eric, and their family have lived in Archer for nearly 20 years. For the last 15 years, she has been a stay-at-home mom to their three boys, the youngest of whom is a 5th grader at NC this year.
For several years, Taneasha and her family helped to run a food truck owned by her mother-in-law, which they later purchased. They enjoyed that opportunity immensely, but eventually decided to sell the business and focus more on quality time with family. She stated, “Now that my children are older, I’m eager to get back out into the workforce and am excited to serve in the kitchen”.
Taneasha is looking forward to working at NC, stating, “I’m excited to help and serve where God is instilled in everyday lives”. She went on to say, “It’s such a blessing to be surrounded by godly people, and be in a place where God is centered first and foremost”.
Welcome to the team, Taneasha! We’re excited to have you on board.
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and give where it's needed most!
| | We do not have an approved 2023-24 budget at this time, but we anticipate a similar public support need to the $800k + that was required this last year. | |
For: Faith Coleman
From: Donald & Kayleen Riley
For: Wilmadeen Kugler Cramer
From: Jerry & Sharyn Reiger
Ken & Judy Taylor
Brian & Sue Christensen
Mrs. Donald Wilson
Roger & Joann Hattan
Alan & Doretta Rowse
Jerald & Marian McClenahan
Priscilla Williams
Ron & Carol Kremer
Richard & Donna Porter
Roger & Joy Leaders
Dale & Ruthie Dankert
Wayne & Linda Green
Bill & Penny Root
For: Joy Jacobsen
From: Linda Peterson
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For: Mildred Root
From: Elaine Wischmeier
Rondell & Jeanette Friesen
Gary & Cherlyn Haussermann
John & Mary McHargue
Larry & Virginia Cooper
Edwin & June Switzer
LaVane & Rosanna Johnson
Duane & Tina Grosbach
Mildred Root Trust
Shirley Greving
Linda Peterson
For: Katherine Siebert
From: Linda Peterson
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October 10
• JH Scholastic Contest
October 11
• Chapel
October 12
• END OF 1ST QUARTER
• Varsity Cross Country @ Elks Country Club
• Varsity Volleyball Conference Tournament @ Burwell
• Varsity Football @ Arcadia-Loup City
October 13
• NO SCHOOL
October 14
• Varsity Volleyball Conference Tournament @ St. Edward
October 16
• Fall Concert
October 17
• JH Volleyball @ Home
October 18
• Chapel
October 20
• NO SCHOOL
• State Varsity Cross Country @ Kearney Country Club
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October 25
• Chapel
October 26
• HALF DAY
• Parent/Teacher Conferences
October 27
• NO SCHOOL
• Quiz Bowl @ Central City High School
November 1
• Chapel
• Tickets go on sale for the 16th Season of the Festival of Lessons & Carols
November 2
• HALF DAY
November 3
• NO SCHOOL
November 6
• 10:00 Start
November 8
• Chapel
November 9
• JH Wrestling @ Sandy Creek
| | The NC class of 1973 gathered in September at Mahoney State Park in Ashland, NE for a class reunion! These classmates traveled from Nebraska, Alaska, Arkansas, Arizona, Kansas, Michigan, and Texas. It was a great day filled with memories, laughs, and catching up with old friends. | |
Are you a graduate of NC, or do you know someone who is? Do you have news that you want to share with the rest of the NC family, either on social media or in the Advance? If so, it’s easy to get the word out! Follow this link or scan the code below to our Google Form, fill it out, and you’re all done! We’ll spread the word.
We look forward to hearing from you!
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At Nebraska Christian, there are a set of values that staff and students strive to exemplify each and every day. These values are arranged as an acrostic poem and posted in every classroom on campus, and moving forward The Advance will look to highlight one of these attributes through the telling of it being lived out by a member of the NC Family. With this in mind, please feel free to share your stories of how you see the vision, mission, or core values being lived out by emailing Rachel Blair at rblair@nebraskachristian.org. Thank you in advance for being a part of telling the ongoing story at Nebraska Christian and stay tuned for the stories of the NC family being the hands and feet of Jesus in Nebraska, the United States, and possibly the world!
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