Faith Christian School Newsletter

“With a grateful heart”

AN I MO G R ATO Partnering to cultivate students with A Mind for Truth ~ A Heart for Christ ~ A Will to Serve Gratitude... Gratitude is at the heart of the Christian life. Gratitude recognizes the good in our lives and sees those good things as gifts. Allow me to share a few of these gifts.

Our Teachers. As I walk the halls and slip into classrooms, I see that our teachers are, first and foremost, role models. They model lives dedicated to serving and pleasing God to their students, colleagues, and parents. In addition, they model what it looks like to be lifelong learners. Our Christian classical education model requires that our teachers continually work to more fully understand and implement this powerful, proven, and purposeful pedagogy. They are the reason we are able to offer this education to our students, and they do so eagerly and expertly! Model of Education. Christian classical education aspires to graduate students who love Jesus, love what God loves, and go into the world to influence it toward Kingdom ends! God’s provision. For nearly 30 years, God has demonstrated time and time again His gracious generosity. This bounty is displayed through those who value what happens here and give of their time and treasure. Additionally, I have witnessed the Lord’s provision of teachers and staff when positions become available. I’m always amazed by the caliber of those He brings to us.

(continued)

Gratitude

Gratitude is about seeing God’s hand in everything. It is a way to view life through a lens of thanksgiving to Him. It is a response to all that has been given and seeking ways to bless in return. I am profoundly grateful to serve in a community where God’s blessings abound.

continued from cover

Beautiful campus. The location of our school is astounding and provides unending opportunities for all of us to be inspired by God’s creation and to have our souls nourished by its beauty. What a privilege to drive onto a beautiful campus each day! Our students. Oh, the privilege of engaging with our students daily! Even as our youngest students tumble out of cars in the morning with precious greetings and a smile, our older students are just as apt to offer a morning greeting, sometimes accompanied by a fist bump. Amazing staff. Our staff members work tirelessly to see that people are welcomed and well-served and that the buildings and grounds are maintained. Generous spirit. I am humbled by the lower school student who gave me a handful of coins to “support the school.” Our graduates. I am grateful for the young men and women who will demonstrate a Mind for Truth, a Heart for Christ, and a Will to Serve! Parents. For those who have taken on the responsibility for raising their children to know and love God, I am privileged to be partnering with them. Grandparents and Friends. How thankful I am to know those who hold a special bond of love and care for our students. Coaches. Men and women who pour into the lives of their athletes are teaching them life lessons distinct to athletics. A Season of Transition. As I prepare to retire, my heart is full of gratitude. It has been one of the greatest honors of my life to serve in this community. I reflect with deep appreciation on the many blessings God has poured out here – on the lives changed, the mission sustained, and the legacy that will continue long after my tenure.

~ Peter G. Baur

Our journey of “Faith”

In 1996, while praying about our options, God put an opportunity in front of us. Some church friends (led by Kathy Roberson, Founding and First Board member) were hosting an Open House to introduce a new Christian Classical school. We attended and after more research and prayer, we joined 47 students and their parents on opening day of Faith Christian School in 1997. So began our journey of “Faith”… Our story began with a desire to ensure our children were shaped by consistent values across all areas of life—Home, School, and Society. While we were intentional in nurturing strong character and faith at home, we began to see that the broader educational environment wasn’t always aligned with those same priorities. Public schools, while doing their best to meet a wide range of student needs, were increasingly focused on standardized testing and broad accountability goals. We longed for an educational setting that would not only reflect our Christian values but also cultivate critical thinking, intellectual curiosity, and a love for lifelong learning. Early Challenges Starting FCS came with uncertainty— limited funds, no building, doubts about curriculum, and concerns over starting with just upper grades. Some wondered if we were using our children as “guinea pigs.” By God’s grace, we moved forward, and with prayer and persistence, we found a leader who shared our vision—Chuck Evans, our first Head of School. Those early years were filled with hours of prayer, planning, and volunteer work from the parents of the first 47 students.

“As the Head of School, there are so many things I witness, hear about, or experience that few others might.”

2

Building the Foundation Together

Founding families wore many hats— planning curriculum, guiding our children’s transition, and covering deficits. There was no “Bridge Fund” in those early years; a handful of families filled the gap. Around year three, we realized fundraising was essential. Our first attempt—a golf tournament— never got off the ground. That led to FaithWalk, a walkathon involving students, staff, and parents. It was successful and laid the groundwork for Project Faith. With guidance from the board, parents and Liz Belcher of Roanoke Parks and Recreation, Project Faith became an annual day of service where the school community blesses a local organization. Now in its 24th year, it reflects the Christian values we hold dear. Blessing in Disguise The most rewarding part of founding FCS was watching our children grow in character, faith, and wisdom. Today, they’re in their 30s and 40s, raising their own families. Our grandson, Will, now attends FCS and thrives under the same academic rigor and biblical foundation. What began as a leap of faith has become a multigenerational blessing.

“that rock still stands,

now a symbol of class pride”

Memorable Moments A favorite story is when our daughter Sarah, then entering 8th grade, asked to attend an Open House “just to see.” By the end of the evening, she was all in— and so began our journey at FCS. Our oldest, Meredith, was well into graduation requirements and therefore didn’t attend. Now her son is part of the FCS legacy. And then there’s the Senior Spirit Rock story—our son, Gordon (FCS Class of 2006) and his friends snuck out to paint the entrance boulder in 2006, a well-meaning project, but… without permission . The police were called, and Head of School, Sam Cox turned it into a teachable moment. Today, that rock still stands, now a symbol of class pride and a reminder to always ask first! We still chuckle every time we see it. A Legacy of Faith and Friendship We are filled with gratitude for the community that formed through FCS. The friendships, the growth, the answered prayers—every time we walk through the doors, we’re reminded of God’s faithfulness. What a joy to see the legacy continue through

our children and grandchildren. ~ Susan and Dean Wadsworth

“FaithWalk laid the groundwork for Project Faith”

3

(See page 10 for more information about Project Faith)

Classical Showcase Each year, our Classical Showcase highlights the benefits of Christian classical education and remains the most attended and valued event showcasing our educational investment into our students. Junior Kindergarten Mrs. Glaze and Mrs. Brannen “Even as early as Junior Kindergarten, students begin learning

independence. They also truly love learning through memorization and recitation of songs, chants, rhymes, poems, and scriptures this year. But why do we recite? We memorize and recite knowing that children can and will learn to speak with courage and boldness, clearly, and with good diction, even as a Junior Kindergarten student. Poetry helps children with imagination, builds vocabulary, and teaches about pitch, volume and inflection. “

Pre-K students proudly demonstrate their growing independence by mastering the “jacket flip”—shown here in action.

Kindergarten Mrs. Campbell

“Through rigor we can engage and inspire students. This begins even at the youngest level. At the beginning of kindergarten, the students begin to learn not only one sound per letter but all of the sounds that each letter of the alphabet makes. We believe that once students have all of the building blocks of language, they can excel in their reading, fluency, and comprehension.”

First Grade Mrs. Fitzgerald “Our first grade curriculum builds upon the skills introduced in Kindergarten in order to master all 71 phonograms used in English so that students are able to begin reading longer, more challenging books by the time they reach second grade. We also emphasize deeper mathematical understanding examining number relationships and learning to add and subtract within 100. Most importantly, we help students store up God’s truth in their hearts by having them memorize key verses from scripture throughout the year.” Kindergarten students joyfully demonstrate their growing knowledge with a lively sampling of phonograms.

Second Grade Mrs. Pugh

First graders perform the Insect Song with coordinated movement—raising hands and balancing to embody insect motion.

“Entering second grade, students are expected to know all 71 phonograms. This helps them to spell larger words, complete book reports, and read chapter books more fluently. They also begin writing and presenting reports orally, using key word outlines, and are taught cursive. Students begin writing in planners for the first time, memorize all states and capitals, and complete their own literature log. They learn Bible stories, all of the books of the Bible, and practice finding certain books, chapters, and verses daily. Throughout the year students also learn about mammals and plants and see God’s perfect order and beauty in our world.”

Second graders bring poetry to life with expressive motions and joyful recitation.

4

“Classical Showcase is not just a way to show parents what their students are learning, but another tool used to teach.” ~ Graham Whitaker

Graham Whitaker shared how recitation chapels shaped him “Each year at this time, the Lower School gathers for the Classical Showcase. This is a distinct and critical part of this education we call Christian and classical. Faith Christian School defines Christian classical education as “a time-honored and results-proven, robust method of educating junior kindergarteners through the twelfth grade by inspiring what comes naturally to all children: a love for learning, a deep desire to discover, unending curiosity, and endless questions. While inspiring these, it also cultivates in the hearts, minds, and souls of students a desire to see God and the world as He intends, and to ‘be able to thrive in all of life— intellectually, spiritually, vocationally, and avocationally. During my Lower School years, I learned scriptures, poems, catechisms, hymns, and, of course, the history chant, that I memorized and went on to recite on this stage. The memorization builds capacity for retaining information, and the things your children memorize are connected to the learning done in class. These skills have served me well now through the years to my upcoming graduation. They provided me with a deep well of information and experiences from which I—and they—can draw to benefit their learning now and forever onwards.” For the full story visit: info.fcsva.com/classical-showcase-2025

Third Grade Mrs. Bower

“Third grade marks a season of growing responsibility and confidence. They write and recite original paragraphs, memorize grammar jingles, and diagram sentences. Bible class includes scripture memory, catechisms, and applying God’s Word. Students also explore creation through nature study.”

Third graders confidently introduce and explain their recitations, offering insight into the meaning behind each carefully chosen piece.

Fourth Grade Mrs. Wolpert

“In fourth grade, we focus on helping students become life-long learners who are curious, ask thoughtful questions, and communicate clearly through writing and speaking. We read classic literature and emphasize deep understanding in math by discovering principles before learning procedures. In Bible, we study catechisms— questions and answers that summarize core Christian beliefs. In history, we explore the medieval period and highlight the Western tradition that shaped America’s history, values, and Christian faith. “

Fourth graders recite “Fleas” with dramatic flair, capturing the hardship and humor of life in the Middle Ages.

Fifth Grade Mrs. Pendleton “Students grow and mature as they take on new responsibilities in fifth grade. They help with car duty, raise the flags, ring the school bell, share morning announcements, and serve as mentors to their JK buddies. These activities help prepare them for middle school. Academically, students begin to see how their learning is connected. They can identify the part of speech of a word in Grammar because of their foundation in Latin, use context clues from Literature to understand a passage in the Bible, or recognize cause and effect in a novel that ties to a historical event they’ve studied. We are equipping them to make meaningful connections across subjects and to continue growing as life-long learners.”

Fifth grade students recite Matthew 5:1–10, the Beatitudes. In Bible class, they explore the words of Jesus and learn how to live out these truths in daily life.

5

5

Senior Thesis ~ Class of 2025 Reaches Capstone Moment with Senior Thesis Presentations

Seniors support their classmates with smiles and hugs following the three final thesis presentations ~ living out the strength of community and mutual encouragement that defines the Class of 2025.

Faith Christian School’s Class of 2025 recently reached an important milestone—their Senior Thesis presentations, a formative capstone of their classical education journey. Over the past year, each senior selected a debatable topic, worked closely with a faculty advisor, wrote deeply researched papers, and prepared to orally defend their thesis before a panel of educators, administrators and community professionals. These presentations require clarity of thought, depth of understanding, and courage, as students are challenged to articulate their convictions, engage with questions, and demonstrate wisdom, logic, and grace in their responses. Topics ranged from medicine, education, economics, public policy, campus safety and poetry—each reflecting the student’s individual curiosity and desire to seek truth in the context of a Christian worldview. Thesis presentations are attended by an audience of students, family, friends, staff and faculty. All came away deeply encouraged by the poise and depth displayed by our students. Equally inspiring was the community spirit on the day of the presentations: seniors showed support for their classmates with hugs, prayers, smiles, and quiet encouragement, illustrating the unity and love that have defined their class and exemplify the heart of FCS.

Mr. Thomas Mann checks in with Juliette Melnychuk as she continues work on her senior thesis— one-on-one support that makes all the difference.

6

Caleb Eng’s Journey ~ From Classical Roots to Northwestern Halls

Caleb Eng, a 2024 graduate of Faith Christian School, is now pursuing a double major in Mathematical Methods in the Social Sciences (MMSS) and Economics at Northwestern University. His journey into this academic path was sparked during his senior year at FCS, when he tackled the complex and timely topic of Central Bank Digital Currency for his senior thesis. “I was amazed at the power of economics

His current coursework is also prompting deeper reflection. A class titled “Ethical Problems and Public Issues” has challenged Caleb to both defend and rethink aspects of his worldview. Topics like immigration, racial integration, and sexism have led him to consider how Christian principles intersect with complex public issues.

to describe society-wide phenomena and to create positive impact,” Caleb reflects. His love for math paired naturally with his growing interest in human behavior, making MMSS a perfect fit. Looking back, Caleb credits much of his readiness for college to the classical education he received at Faith Christian School. “It allowed me to think critically about topics that challengde me,” he says. Rather than simply memorizing formulas or facts, his education emphasized understanding the “why” behind ideas, an approach that has proven invaluable in college. Though writing isn’t a large part of his

“Classical education prompted me to use study methods that seek to find out “why” certain theorems/policies work and not just how.”

college coursework at the moment, the strong foundation in writing he received at FCS has made the occasional paper a manageable task. One of Caleb’s favorite memories from his time at Faith Christian was the fall retreat during his senior year. “It was a great opportunity to spend time with my classmates,” he recalls fondly. Those relationships and experiences have continued to shape him as he navigates the academic and social landscape of college. Transitioning to a large university can be overwhelming, and Caleb admits that he’s faced his share of challenges. “Sometimes despite my best efforts, I can’t achieve the score I desire,” he says. “But I have to trust in God’s plan for my life.” His faith has been a steadying force, and he has found a new community through Cru, a Christian organization at Northwestern that offers weekly Bible studies and large group gatherings.

Caleb’s advice to current FCS students is simple but profound: “Don’t try to make yourself fit a college—find a college that fits you.” He encourages students to focus on their strengths and passions, rather than trying to mold themselves into someone they think colleges want. As he looks ahead, Caleb hopes to graduate with a strong GPA, grow lasting friendships, and make a meaningful impact through Cru or other campus ministries. And while his days at FCS are behind him, he’s not leaving the community behind. “I’m hoping to come back at the start of the next year,” he shares. Caleb Eng’s story is one of intellectual curiosity, grounded faith, and a heart for community— both old and new.

Visit the new Alumni section of our website here www.fcsva.com/fcsalumni

7

Rooted in Faith

The Williams Family’s Journey with Faith Christian School

Alongside him in this journey is his wife, Whitney, who sees the school’s impact through daily life as a mom. “The best part is knowing that Christ is at the center of Wynston’s education, just as He is in our home,” she says. Faith Christian has strengthened their family’s faith—encouraging prayer, discussion and spiritual growth. “It’s made our whole family more intentional,” Whitney shares. “Wynston

When Wesley Williams was first approached about serving on the board of Faith Christian School, he sensed God doing something new in his life. Doors were opening, and opportunities to serve were multiplying. “I was inspired by what the school stood for,” Wesley recalls. “Its mission to educate students in a Godly manner spoke directly to the calling I felt—to serve my community with purpose and faith.”

doesn’t just learn Bible stories— he applies them to real life.” She marvels at the classical model’s power to teach truth while cultivating a love for learning. “Wynston is being challenged academically, but in a way that brings him joy. His reading, handwriting, and curiosity have all blossomed.” Most of all, Whitney cherishes how the school partners with them in shaping their son. “Even when he’s not home with me, I know he’s surrounded by people who love him and are helping him become a strong, faith-filled leader.” As for Wynston, a joyful

“It’s not just a philosphy - it’s the heartbeat of FCS.”

kindergartener, he’s quick to share what makes learning fun: field trips, science, Mrs. Cambell and crafts. His favorite verse is Psalm 23, and he loves learning about spring and doing a space book. He sees Jesus at work in little moments—like when he helped calm his class during a wasp incident. “Jesus protected us,” he says confidently.If given the chance to teach for a day, Wynston says he’d teach kindness. And he already lives it—helping hurt friends, comforting the sad, and “making sure everyone is helping Mrs. Carpenter, who sprained her leg.” For the Williams family, Faith Christian School isn’t just a school—it’s a community, a mission, and a partner in faith. When asked what encouragement she would give to other parents considering Faith Christian School for their children their response is - “Do it!” “It will be one of the best decisions you make!”

As a board member, Wesley now sees firsthand how deeply the Christian classical model influences every part of the school. “It’s not just a philosophy—it’s the heartbeat of FCS,” he says. From faculty meetings to classroom instruction, he sees the model lived out in tangible ways. Most personally, he sees the fruit in his son, Wynston. “Watching how this education is shaping Wynston’s mind and heart has deepened my appreciation more than anything else.” Wesley is quick to point to the school’s core strengths: “Its unwavering love for Christ, its commitment to classical education, and the incredible staff who pour into the students every day.” As a board, their guiding principle is simple: keep Christ at the center. “We filter our decisions through that lens,” Wesley explains. “If something doesn’t align with the mission, it doesn’t make it to the table.”

8

Faculty Spotlight - Stephanie Hopkins With gratitude and love, we celebrate Mrs. Hopkins as she retires after 27 years of faithful service to Faith Christian School. In this special interview, she reflects on her journey, the heart of classical Christian education, and the legacy she leaves behind. 1. How has your teaching approach evolved over the years? I’ve increasingly embraced the classical idea of multum, non multa—“much, not many.” Focusing on fewer topics in greater depth helps students students apply the skills learned in future lessons. What hasn’t changed is keeping expectations high and supporting students along the way. 2. What aspects of classical Christian education shaped your teaching style? A focus on discussion and asking open-ended questions has helped me because this type of inquiry both helps students think more deeply and helps me know where their gaps in learning may lie. 3. How did you begin teaching at FCS, and what’s kept you here? I was originally hired as an administrative assistant in 1998. When a need for a Latin teacher arose, I offered to help. Though I didn’t yet have a degree, I felt the Lord calling me to teach. I started my degree in Classical Studies soon after. The FCS community has become like family, and that’s what’s kept me here all these years. 4. How do you integrate faith in your classroom? Faith often comes into discussions naturally—even in pagan literature. These texts give us opportunities to reflect on truth, grace, and God’s love. 5. What’s a moment when you saw the impact of Christian education? One student’s senior thesis on quantum indeterminacy explored both science and God’s sovereignty. Watching him clearly articulate these ideas with humility and awe was deeply moving.

6. How does the classical model benefit students? The Trivium—grammar, logic, rhetoric— forms a solid foundation for critical thinking and communication. It also teaches students to see the world through the lens of God’s truth and grace. Students learn to communicate their views in speaking and writing, making them more mature believers and winsome defenders of their faith. 7. Any advice for future teachers? Stay with it! Talk to other teachers, keep learning, and lean into the calling God has placed on your life. This work is hard—but it is holy. Final thoughts? Stay the course. The road less traveled is often the most rewarding. I’m grateful for every step I’ve taken here.

The Road Not Taken, by Robert Frost Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both And be one traveler, long I stood And looked down one as far as I could To where it bent in the undergrowth; Then took the other, as just as fair, And having perhaps the better claim, Because it was grassy and wanted wear; Though as for that the passing there Had worn them really about the same, And both that morning equally lay In leaves no step had trodden black. Oh, I kept the first for another day! Yet knowing how way leads on to way, I doubted if I should ever come back. I shall be telling this with a sigh Somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.

For Stephanie’s full interview visit www.fcsva.com/stories

9

P R O J E C T F A I T H T H A N K Y O U ! On Friday, April 25th, nearly 500 students, faculty, staff, alumni, and parent volunteers from Faith Christian School donated more than 2,000 volunteer hours serving Crisis Response International. We painted, cleaned, landscaped, repaired and organized - projects CRI simply would not be able to complete due to budget and personnel constraints.

A very special thank you goes to the many families and friends who generously donated in support of our students and this meaningful day of service. Your contributions directly impacted lives and made this experience possible.

Scan this QR code to experience Project Faith Day and see all that you made possible through your support—thank you for helping us serve

Every dollar raised through Project Faith ensures our students continue to experience our extraordinary model of Christian Classical Education. K E Y R E S U L T S C O R P O R A T E S P O N S O R S

$144,500 RAISED TO DATE

450 VOLUNTEERS PAINTING, REPAIRS, CLEANING, LANDSCAPING and more!

We extend a heartfelt thanks to all the sponsors who helped make Project Faith 2025 possible

2500+ HOURS OF SERVICE

Anderson Music Therapy | Atlantic Union Bank Bank of the James |First Citizens Bank | Freedom First

Interstate Battery of Roanoke Valley | Meade Tractor |Modern Day Roofing Mountain State Oral & Facial Surgery | Prestige Acres Landscaping, Inc. Roanoke Gas Co.| Rubicon Planning, LLC | Urology Associates | VFP, Inc.

Crisis Response International (CRI) was founded in 2007 to bring hope, relief, and the love of God to those impacted by natural disasters and crises. CRI’s base camp is located in Blue Ridge, VA. For more information about CRI, visit www.criout.com.

10

Introducing our Planned Giving and Endowment Program

Faith Christian School is excited to launch a Planned Giving and Endowment Program—a powerful way for families, alumni, and friends to invest in the long-term mission and sustainability of our school. A dedicated section of our website offers resources to help you explore how planned gifts and endowment contributions can reflect your values and support future generations of students. The Legacy Society: Investing in Eternal Impact As part of this new initiative, we’re honored to introduce the Legacy Society—a community of supporters who have chosen to include Faith Christian School in their estate plans. Legacy Society members are planting seeds today that will bear Kingdom fruit for years to come. Their intentional generosity ensures that the mission of Faith Christian School continues to flourish, shaping students who love Jesus and are prepared to serve with excellence. Meet Emily Harrison—wife to Scott, mom of two FCS boys, speaker and writer on parenting and technology, and a current PVO Board member. The Harrison’s moved to Roanoke from Charlotte, NC (Emily’s hometown) and quickly became immersed in the life of Faith Christian School. Inspired by their nieces who attended FCS, they chose the school for their sons after witnessing firsthand the school’s academic excellence and Christ-centered culture. One memory captures Faith’s spirit: Her son was struggling with his coursework, but his teacher calmly assured, “He’ll get it.” That quiet confidence reflected belief in every child’s God given potential. He did get it—and that moment became more than academic support; it was lasting spiritual encouragement rooted in faith and individual worth. Legacy in Action: Why the Harrison Family Chose to Give

“We want our estate to reflect what we value. Supporting Faith Christian School even after we’re gone is one of the best ways we can influence the next generation for Christ.” —Emily Harrison, Legacy Society Member

Volunteering, attending athletic events, and building friendships with faculty and other parents has only deepened the Harrison’s commitment. As parents of student-athletes, they’ve seen the power of perseverance, character-building, and grace on and off the field. The decision to leave a legacy gift came from a desire to steward their finances with eternal purpose. “Our giving—both now and in our estate—should reflect our belief in truth, beauty, and goodness. FCS is cultivating those things in the next generation.” Want to Learn More? To read Emily’s full story as well as explore our Planned Giving and Endowment Program, join the Legacy Society, or learn how to make a lasting impact through a gift in your will or estate plan visit our website at www.fcsva.com/planned-giving-home or contact Amy Milberger at 540-769-9630 or amilberger@fcsva.com to start the conversation.

11

Board of Directors

Ab Jones Chair

OUR VISION A Mind for Truth. A Heart for Christ. A Will to Serve.

Katy Eng Vice-Chair Jim Forney Secretary & Treasurer

OUR MISSION The mission of Faith Christian School is to provide a Christ-centered classical education of academic excellence, spiritual depth, and moral integrity which will prepare students for godly particpation in their society and promote loyalty to God and country.

Greg Beecher Ellie Hammer Jan Sessor Wesley Williams

Ways to Give Thank you for your support

Phone: 540-769-5200 ext. 138 Mail: Faith Christian School

3585 Buck Mountain Road Roanoke, VA 24018 Online: www.fcsva.com/ways-to-give

Scan this QR code to make a secure, online donation.

Society for Classical Learning

Newsletter Credits: Copy, Art Direction, Design, and Photography prepared in house by Faith Christian School staff and community unless otherwise noted.

Educational Records Bureau

Virginia Council on Private Education

Virginia Association of Christian Athletics

Printing and mailing provided in part by Wordsprint.