Warrior News

Dear Warrior Nation,

Imagine having a malady and spending your life identified by it.  We hear about the story of Bartimaeus, a man referred to as “Blind Bartimaeus,” and his encounter with Jesus in the Gospel of Mark.  As Jesus walked past him on the road, Bartimaeus cried out, “Jesus, Son of David, have mercy on me!”  When he was rebuked, he shouted even louder.  When Jesus called him over, the question posed was simple: “What do you want me to do for you?”  The response was simple: “Rabbi, I want to see.”  The Christian response is that even though we have needs, we shouldn’t be concerned with ourselves; we need to be selfless and only think of others.  But, the Bible is clear – “…casting all your cares upon him, because he cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).  While lifting the needs of others is part of what God calls us to do, do not be afraid to bring your trials, your struggles, your challenges to the only one able to handle them – YOUR Lord and Savior.  Remember, we are not identified by our struggles.  And don’t be afraid to cry out to him because he already knows what you need.

This is just a reminder of the significant role you play in our school community. We have one final Open House event scheduled for 9 May, starting at 6:30 p.m. We still have open slots for prospective families to come, tour the school, meet the teachers and administrators, and hear what you already know - that RCS is a great place for their students to receive a Christ-centered education! Your recommendation is invaluable. If you know someone interested, have them call the main office at 804-276-3193 to register.

The Iowa assessments have been completed, and we eagerly await the results. These results will provide us with valuable insights into your child's academic progress and areas of improvement. When they arrive, we will provide detailed instructions on accessing and interpreting them. Your active involvement in this process is crucial for your child's academic success.  Next week, we have a special opportunity for you to show appreciation for our exceptional teachers.  To contribute to the week's events, click here or reach out to Mrs. Montague or Amber Verheul for a list of their ‘favorites.’

Stay informed about the last four weeks of school by regularly checking the newsletters from your principal. They contain important dates, events, and reminders to help you and your child navigate the end of the school year smoothly.  We also ask for your prayers for new staff to fill our vacancies and for new families to join the Warrior Nation.  Rest assured, you are in our prayers as well.

Blessings to you and your family for a weekend of joy and peace.

All 4 Him!

Bill Sharp, M.Ed.
Head of School
 

Dear Warrior Nation,

The Gospels tell of the crucifixion of Christ, and near the end of the story in John (20:30), Jesus is quoted as saying, “It is finished.”  These three words in English are a translation of the Greek word tetelestai, which actually has multiple contexts from the time of Jesus.  First, the word was used in business on receipts to indicate that a literal financial debt was completely paid in full; in a judicial context, it was used in court, which indicates that a sentence has been completely served; in a military context, it was used to indicate that a battle was won, and the enemy had been completely defeated.  When Jesus cried out on the cross, “Tetelestai,” he was saying this:  Your debt of sin is fully paid, the judgment for your sin has been fully served, and the spiritual war against death, sin, and Satan has been completely won on your behalf.  The victory Christ won for us through his death, resurrection, and ascension is complete; all we have to do is accept it.  If you have never done that, today is the day of salvation, my friend.  Call me, and let’s talk about it.  (Adapted from “It Is Finished” by Josh Howerton)

This is just a reminder that we have one final Open House event scheduled for 9 May, starting at 6:30 p.m. We still have open slots for prospective families to come, tour the school, meet the teachers and administrators, and hear what you already know — that RCS is a great place for their students to receive a Christ-centered education! If you know someone interested, have them call the main office at 804-276-3193 to register.
Next week (22-26 April) is our annual IOWA Assessments.  Testing will happen in the morning on those days; then, regular instruction will occur for the rest of the day.  These tests are purposeful for many reasons.  For you, you can use them to chart your student’s progress year to year.  For teachers, it is useful to see areas of strength and struggle for students to help tailor enrichment and remediation for the coming year.  For the school, it helps us compare our progress to that of other schools and helps us in decision-making for future curriculum and course needs.  Please help your students by ensuring they get a good night’s sleep each night and a good breakfast before coming to school.  Also, it will be super helpful to be sure they are in school on time each day, as testing begins at 8:00.  Thank you in advance for your partnership and support in this area.

With only five weeks remaining until the Secondary School exams, it is crucial for students to stay focused and finish strong. Remind them of 2 John 1:8: “Watch out that you do not lose what we have worked so hard to achieve. Be diligent so that you receive your full reward.” Your encouragement and support can make a significant difference in their preparation.

May the Lord bless and keep you in His righteous right hand!

All 4 Him!

Bill Sharp, M.Ed.
Head of School