The Official Publication of Metro Christian Academy Tulsa, Oklahoma SEPTEMBER 2013

Rondi FrenchTEACHES: MS/HS Communication and Speech and MS girls Basketball Coach

EDUCATION: Bachelor of Arts from Oral Roberts University

ABOUT: Worked at Metro from 1991 – 1997 as a PE teacher/girls Basketball Coach and Student Council Advisor. Her husband, Scott, Director of Student Ministries at Kirk of the Hills, also worked at Metro as a HS Chaplain and Bible teacher. They have two daughters. Mason is a senior at Berryhill and Bailey is a freshman at Metro. They enjoy watching Mason run cross country and track and listening to Bailey sing and play the trumpet. She feels blessed to be back at Metro.

Chad GehrkeTEACHES: Geometry and Honors Geometry and Asst. Coach for JV boys Basketball

EDUCATION: Secondary Math Education and Secondary Physical Education from Hillsdale Free Will Baptist College

ABOUT: Engaged to marry Chantal Glacken on June 14th. Mr. Gehrke is an avid sports fan, playing and watching any sport. He also enjoys watching midget car racing with his brother.

Elyse HabenichtTEACHES: 6th grade Science and HS Chemistry

EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science in Nutritional Sciences with a minor in Psychology from Texas A&M

ABOUT: Her husband is Daniel Habenicht. She enjoys cooking, biking, diving, traveling, and going to concerts.

Kelsey HendrixTEACHES: English II and Honors English II

EDUCATION: BS in Secondary Education – English from Oklahoma State University

ABOUT: She loves her dog, turtle, and two adorable nieces. In her spare time she enjoys reading, writing novels/plays, working with her youth group, watching movies, and making short films with friends.

John LenschowTEACHES: Life Skills, Doctrine, and 7th Grade Bible

EDUCATION: Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Literature from ORU, Master of Divinity and Master of Theology in New Testament from Gordon Conwell Theological Seminary

ABOUT: He loves God, coffee and the New England Patriots!

Dolores SmithTEACHES: Environmental Science and MS/HS Robotics

EDUCATION: BS in Biology from ORU and Secondary Science and Biology Certification from Juniata College in PA

ABOUT: Mrs. Smith and her husband, Robert, have a daughter Sarah in grad school at the University of Denver. Originally from Pennsylvania, but a southerner at heart, they own a ranch in Claremore with horses, lots of dogs and cats, and a donkey. She attends Cedar Point Church in Claremore and enjoys her life group at church, horseback riding, fishing, sailing, and hiking.

Katie ThomasTEACHES: 6th/8th Bible and coaches MS girls Basketball

EDUCATION: BS in Biology from John Brown University (where she played Basketball )

ABOUT: She worked at Oklahoma Aquarium as a freshwater Biologist and loves/owns mammals of all types.

Helen VolakTEACHES: Computer Science and Computer Graphics and Accounting

EDUCATION: BS Engineering Computer Science from University of Oklahoma

ABOUT: Mrs. Volak subbed at Metro last year as the Computers teacher. She has two children. Her son Daniel (a Metro grad) is a senior at University of Tulsa majoring in Mechanical Engineering. Katie is a senior at Metro, looking at OSU’s pre-med program. Mrs. Volak is also a flight instructor and she attends Redeemer Covenant Church. She loves to fly and play tennis.

Bryan WaytulaTEACHES: MS/HS Art and 9th grade boys Basketball Coach

EDUCATION: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art (Visual Communications) and Minor in Art History from University of Oklahoma and Alternative Teaching Certification from Northeastern State University

ABOUT: Mr. Waytula is a newlywed with wife Linda and has a German Shepard named Alex. He is a talented artist who loves to draw and compete in Native American Art shows, fixing up his 1966 Mustang, collecting very old coins, and praying the Chicago Cubs win the World Series.

Cindy BristowTEACHES: 1st Grade

EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science, Special Education from the University of Central Oklahoma

ABOUT: She is married to Darren, a Sergeant on the Tulsa Police Department. They have a son, Mark, who is a Metro 2nd grader. Mrs. Bristow is a familiar face, subbing extensively for Elementary last year. She attends The Church (BattleCreek satellite)

Bryon FlamTEACHES: Elementary P.E. and Head Boys Basketball Coach

EDUCATION: Mr. Flam was the Assistant Varsity Coach at Broken Arrow High School and a Student Assistant at Oklahoma State University under Eddie Sutton

ABOUT: He and his wife, Megan, have two boys Carter (3) and Cooper (1). He enjoys playing golf, watching sports, and spending time with family and friends.

Rachel HillTEACHES: Kindergarten

EDUCATION: BS in early childhood education from John Brown University

ABOUT: Mrs. Hill teaches down the hall from her mom, Mrs. Lapo. She and her husband, Alan, have been married just over a year. They enjoy reading, running, traveling, mission trips and cabin vacations. They are volunteers with Welcomers International, with a passion to build friendships with Internationals living in Tulsa. Mrs. Hill is a Metro grad from the class of 2006. She attends Springs of Grace Bible Church.

continued on p. 3

Welcome to Metro! Meet the new 2013-14 faculty and staff.

I recently shared some thoughts with the staff of Metro regarding good works, and I think the concepts are appropriate to share with you, our parents and patrons. In Ephesians 2:10, the apostle Paul states: “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk in them.” You and I were created for good works - God had in his heart a divine purpose for us to fulfill.

But taking it even farther, God did not just have a purpose. He had a purpose in specifically creating us. Crafting us in His own image, with His own workmanship -possessing skills and abilities for completing good works – and expecting us to fulfill them. What an encouragement! What a challenge!

I believe that this scripture speaks to both individuals and to the organizations to which we belong. Metro has been established by God to do good works. Our “good work” revolves around educating, training and preparing Metro students to identify their God-given purpose. To understand that they were created with unique and individual skills allowing them to complete good works both now and in the days ahead.

God has compiled a group of educators, staff, administrators, students and families into our beautiful community. Within this community

at Metro there is a divine continuum of purpose. Each of us are using our unique and God-crafted skills, doing the good work of developing the God-given talents and abilities of others, thereby allowing them to fulfill the good works that they were created for.

This is a beautiful and powerful process, but also one that is becoming more important as the culture around us changes. Jesus stated it this way:

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Mt. 5:16) As our students identify their God-given skills and purpose, walking forward in the good works that God prepares for them, they shine as bright lights in an ever-darkening world, so that God may be glorified.

This is our purpose. This is our call. This is our privilege. To walk alongside of you as parents and patrons to raise up a generation of young people who are prepared to go into the world and equipped to change it. Let us all do well in the good works the Lord has created for us.

For the good works of Christ,

Roger GerstenbergerHeadmaster

“For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good

works, which God prepared beforehand that we should walk

in them.”

Created for Good WorksIN THIS ISSUEHigh School News ........... 4

Middle School News ........ 6

Elementary News ........... 7

Athletics News .............. 8

Fine Arts News .............. 9

Retro Metro .................10

Development ............... 11

Metro Christian Academy

Hall of Fame 2014

Nomination forms coming soon via email, facebook,

and metroca.comStart thinking now of

nominations for each category Alumni, faculty,

administration/staff, and board members/founders

PAST WINNERS:2008

Dr. Rod Goodsell

Dr. Matt Kimberling

Mr. Bob Beard

Mr. Richard Eldridge

2011

Dr. Wanda Hartman

Bennie and Carole Crowder

Stuart Sullivan

Carol Kelley

From the desk of Roger Gerstenberger, Headmaster

Financial & Estate Planning in the New Economy

WHEN: October 8th, 20135:30 P.M. - Check in5:45 P.M. - Presentation

WHERE:OU- Tulsa CampusLearning Center BuildingPerkins Auditorium

Tulsa Community Foundation

RSVP:The Metro Christian Academy Foundation, Teresa O’Donnelltodonnell@metroca.com918-745-9868

Why planning is important in today’s financial landscapeLike most people right now you are wondering how the decisions from Washington will have an impact on your financial and estate plan.

To understand how the current economic and political landscape will influence your estate and finances, Tulsa Community Foundation along with nearly 60 local charities including The Metro Christian Academy Foundation will be holding an educational seminar to address these issues.

Planning for you, your family, and your finances will be discussed throughout this meeting.

Please RSVP to the agency.

Kim KingTEACHES: 3rd grade

EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science from Central State University

ABOUT: She and her husband, Gary, have been married for 27 years and have three children. Their son, Taylor (Metro 2008 grad) graduated from OSU and is married to Sarah. Another son, Corbin, is a senior at Metro . They also have two daughters. Abby (Metro 2011 grad) is a junior at OSU and Libby is a freshman at Metro. Mrs. King likes to play tennis, jog, hike, and is a 9th grade girls small group leader at her church. She and her family enjoy going on mission trips.

Blair StoneTEACHES: Kindergarten

EDUCATION: BS in Early Childhood Ed from Oklahoma State University

ABOUT: Ms. Stone is living the single life enjoying her two nephews. She loves to travel and spend time with her family and friends. She is the Metro Middle School pom coach and was named Teacher of the Year at Boevers Elementary (Union Elementary) before coming to Metro.

Wendy LanePOSITION: MS Secretary

EDUCATION: University of Oklahoma

ABOUT: Mrs. Lane and her husband, Jamie, have two kids. Lydia is a Metro 2013 grad and attends the University of Oklahoma. Griffin is a freshman at Metro. Their family attends Redeemer Covenant Church. She and her twin sister, Monique (Mrs. Mantle), graduated from Metro. She is also a Tribe leader for Middle School as she enjoys working with youth.

Debbie ClarkPOSITION: Enrollment Coordinator

EDUCATION: Texas Christian University

ABOUT: Mrs. Clark and her husband, Buddy have 5 kids. Beaude is a senior at Bixby, Bailey (11th), Sophia (9th), Mack (6th), and Will (3rd) are at Metro. She loves watching her kids play football, volleyball, basketball, baseball, and swimming.

Justin TeaguePOSITION: Assistant Technology

ABOUT: Justin and his wife, Amanda, have a son Mason with another son, Cayde due in early November. Justin is a storm chaser, currently affiliated with Fox 23, and has seen the two largest tornadoes ever recorded. He spends his spare time admiring/driving sports cars and muscle cars and being in the outdoors hiking, backpacking, and camping.

Power of the PatriotA MONTHLY LOOK AT WHAT IT MEANS TO BE A PATRIOT

There is a reason that we are called the Metro Patriots. A patriot is someone who stands up for what is right, no matter how tough or how many people are going against him. It was Patriots who fought for the freedom we have in America. It was Patriots who went against all odds to start Metro Christian Academy. It was Patriots who followed Jesus, when all the government and the church officials were against them.

As we continue our 30th Anniversary celebration and reflect on Metro’s history, we will be featuring a letter from the word “PATRIOT” each month. Each letter describes an attribute of a patriot that we believe represents our history and our future. You may have noticed banners on the light poles in the parking lot. They spell Patriot as you drive around the building/campus.

We begin with the letter P for Perseverance, defined as the “steady persistence in a course of action, especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement”. Metro Christian is no stranger to adversity and we strive to instill perseverance in our students, faculty, staff, and families. Perseverance was a key attribute in the early years when Metro was founded with the goal of being the best non-denominational, college preparatory, Christian school in the State of Oklahoma.

Familiar Faces, New Places:

Reagan Pool MS/HS Vocal Music (previously Elementary Music)

Allison Schooley 2nd grade (previously Discovery)

Nancy Archer Enrichment/Discovery (previously 2nd grade)

Erin Thurber 4th/5th Science (previously 3rd grade)

LeAnne Buffington Library Aide (previously nurse aide)

Holly Beard Elementary Music (previously Librarian Aide)

David Jackson MS Principal (previously 6th grade Science and Curriculum Coordinator)

Welcome new teachers and staff to Metro

Welcome!

continued from cover

In the midst of activities, vacations, and sports camps, many students choose to add service/missions to their summer break:

Cash and Malory Jackson travelled to Charlotte, North Carolina to serve at One7 Ministries. One7 Ministries exists to reach and transform inner-city communities and families by intentionally forming cross cultural youth ministry teams while focusing on holistic change and spiritual growth.

Seventh graders Trevor Burns, Jack Mayfield, and Cade McNeese spent a day at the Day Center for the Homeless. They cleaned shelves and toys for the children.

Several sophomores (Lizzy Chapman, Jillian Blake, Tyler O’Donnell, Emily Morris, Baxter Hays, Katie Mathis, Ross Black, Maddie Frohrip, Sydney Fergerson, Jackson Fine, Josh Dowdy, Will Fossett, and Bryce Consedine) participated in New Life Ranch’s Nehemiah Leadership camp. They served the neighboring community in service projects including bailing hay, clearing brush, and painting homes.

Juniors, Tim Burchard, Nathaniel Benson, Rachel Quesenberry, Alex Schmitz, Connor McKee, Mallory Roy, Lauren Higgabotham, Jeff McNeal, and Cole McNeese, spent two weeks participating in Tim Team at New Life Ranch. Timothy Team participants work as a team of shepherds who care for the Ranch’s day campers that range in age from 1st – 6th grade.

Emily Horton served at Camp Barnabas, located in Purdy, MO, a camp which provides life-changing opportunities to people with special needs in a Christian camp setting. Emily was assigned to a high-functioning teenage girl, helping her with everyday activities and developing a close bond of friendship.

Deven Turner was a counselor for Hope’s Crossing which is a camp for kids ages 9-13, who have unique needs resulting from a serious illness such as cancer, heart disease, and muscular dystrophy. He developed a special relationship with a camper whom he was able to pray for and then witnessed God’s miraculous financial provision for the camper’s family.

Abby Buffington and Noah Helsee went to Brazil with their youth group from Christian Chapel. During the day they visited several schools and performed a skit which interpreted Jesus’ story and God’s love for all people. In the evenings they participated in “church” services where they led worship music, shared their testimonies and skit. They were especially moved during the services when they witnessed several people miraculously healed from various medical ailments.

Shelby Bierman, Jackson Drummond, and Meredith Knight travelled to Houston, Texas with their church youth group to host a Vacation Bible School for inner-city kids.

Davis Frohrip with Luke and Tim Burchard participated in a medical mission trip to Uganda where they assisted doctors in providing dental and eye services to local villages.

Joshua Yoo travelled to China with a Korean-affiliated charity group called SAM-CARE. The group provided medical aid to Korean/Chinese citizens living on the border of the two countries. Part of the ministry included distributing eye glasses to some of the elderly in the Dandoong region.

high school news

Metro Students In Summer Service

2014 National Merit Semifinalist

Congratulations Noah Helsee for being named a Semifinalist in the 2014 National Merit Scholarship Program. About 1.5 million juniors in more than 22,000 high schools entered the 2014 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2012 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. The test served as an initial screening of program entrants. Noah is one of 173 seniors from Oklahoma, out of approximately 16,000 seniors across the nation, competing to attain Finalist standing and to earn one of roughly 8,000 scholarships offered next spring.

Hands on at the Fab LabThe high school and middle school Robotics classes traveled to the Hardesty

Center for FabLab to learn Computer Aided Design (CAD) through programs such as SketchUp and 3D printing. The Robotics program, revamped this year, is designed to benefit students’ interest in pursuing engineering careers. The learning process will take on a new dimension involving extensive hands-on development of mechanical and computer programming skills. The Robotics class will include friendly competition, mimicking sporting events, between robots that are designed, built and programmed by the students.

The robotics classes will participate in the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) competitions, where their robots will compete head- to-head against teams from other schools. The robots will be entered into games and challenges designed to engage students’ critical thinking skills and enhance the skills needed and used in science and engineering careers.

Stay-tuned as we bring you updates on the progress of the program and our success in the competitions.

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Scholarship RecipientDiego Rojas is this year’s recipient

of the Josh Lantz Memorial Scholarship. Josh Lantz was a 2005 Metro graduate and honor student who had a heart for missions. He drowned in a boating accident on December 1, 2006. Upon his death, this scholarship was set up to help other students pursue their dream of bringing Christ to the lost. Diego is a freshman this year and has attended Metro since 6th grade. He has three siblings that graduated from Metro: Rodrigo (2004), Gabriel (2006), and Sasha (2008). Diego has a passion to teach and show God’s love to people around the world.

Freshman AcademyThe Class of 2017 kicked off their freshman year at Freshman

Academy. The group gathered at the Venue, Asbury’s youth building, to shake things up and get fired-up for high school and all the new experiences that lie ahead.

Morning ice breakers got the kids moving before the keynote motivational speaker, Mr. Kelly Barnes, stopped by to share his words of wisdom. He talked about his “Be to Get” philosophy – you have to “be a friend to get a friend” – and gave tips for making the most out of their high school experience. His simple techniques included: be the nice guy, make a difference by being a friend, and look for the positive in a person or situation. Trevor Lucas, another speaker, emphasized the importance of “Character being greater than Image”.

The highlight of the day was the breakout session led by the Leadership Class. Things got serious, as well as funny, as fellow students shared advice on everything from how to ask a classmate to a school dance, to how to get involved in school organizations and the importance of chivalry. At the end of the day, the 9th grade class had heard from upper classmen about how to excel in high school through understanding and utilizing their own leadership styles, maintaining a strong self-worth and even how to date and maintain smart relationships.

Congratulations to the newly elected class officers:

President – Katherine McKee Vice President – Coleman Davis

Secretary – Charlotte SerageTreasurer – Jenna SmithHistorian – Rachel StacyChaplains – Gray Strickland and Cameron MitchellSpirit Leader – Jack Roe

The answer stems from gleaning best practice principles from research in the areas of educational development and spiritual growth. Research from both the educational experts and Christian youth development studies show that adolescent students are striving to find answers to the following three questions:

Who am I? (Identity)Am I loved? (Belonging)Do my choices matter? (Autonomy)

All three questions involve the process of learning to develop healthy relationships.

Metro desires to produce graduates who have maximized their potential both academically and spiritually. I believe the Tribes process will provide the best opportunities for Metro graduates to be equipped to enter college, the work force, and to impact the world for Jesus Christ.

Summarizing Tribes is not easy. It is similar to the poem where several blind men attempt to describe an elephant. Each blind man gives a report of what he found. Each report is widely different from the other men’s because one examined the tail, another one foot, another an ear, and so on. It is more of a collection of principles and attitudes which, when adopted, create a culture that facilitates the student’s gifts and talents being discovered and developed. When placed side by side with other successful educational models, there are many similarities. God’s truth in the area of teaching, learning and relationships is there for all to discover. The same concepts and principles serve as the foundation for Great Expectations, Tribes, Rachel’s Challenge, Effective Teaching and other models. What

makes Tribes different is the activities and structure put the student at the center of the model. It is “student centered” learning. Decisions are made and classes structured with the development and needs of growing a student at the forefront.

A small group setting is what most people will associate with the word “Tribes.” These groups meet after chapel each week on Thursday and form relationships, learn leadership skills, increase their emotional intelligence, learn

to work cooperatively and also experience a place of belonging. At Metro Christian, we are shifting what was formally known as “advisory” to a “tribes focus” and moving to multi-age groups. The Tribes are of mixed gender and include students from grades 6,7 and 8, with the total number of students around twelve.

Colleges and Employers are looking for individuals with the ability to work cooperatively in small groups, using the power of synergy to come up with creative solutions. Training students

in middle school to have emotional intelligence, work cooperatively in groups, and lead in a group setting will facilitate this type of graduate. The specific skills are placed into five categories:

1. Self-awareness (John 8:32)2. Social awareness (1 Corinthians 2:13)3. Self-management (Galatians 5:22-23)4. Relationship skills (John 7:37) 5. Responsible decision making (1 Corinthians 2:13)Christian young people need to be

comfortable in a leadership position in their community. Tribes give middle school students the opportunity to be leaders now. Seventh

and eighth grade students are expected to be leaders in their tribe. The sixth grade students can see the successes and challenges of leadership in a small group with hope of applying their knowledge within a year.

Exactly how the Tribes process works into the curriculum at Metro Christian middle school is to be determined. The students will have the opportunity to provide feedback via student council representatives for each tribe. The teachers are also giving weekly feedback in their faculty meetings. Tribes will be implemented using principles that are research based and Biblically sound.

With the quote “All you can take with you to heaven is relationships” as an umbrella philosophy, Metro Christian Middle School is committed to cutting edge techniques, such as Tribes, and Holy Spirit guidance as we train our children to be ambassadors for Christ.

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In Tribes, students form relationships,

learn leadership skills, increase their

emotional intelligence, learn to work

cooperatively and also experience a place

of belonging.

Tribe InvasionStudents and faculty from the middle school took over Metro’s campus for their Tribe Day. In place of

the traditional retreat, they spent the day in Tribe competitions that enhanced the Tribe philosophy of

unity and leadership. Each Tribe leader rotated with their group of 6th – 8th grade students, participating in activities such as

rock climbing, water balloon launch, tug-o-war, and a picture scavenger hunt. The students/tribes received

points for their various accomplishments. Despite the cloudy and periodically rainy day, the tribes enjoyed a

fun day of friendly competition and fellowship.

The Tribes Philosophy Why is middle school making a shift into the “Tribes” philosophy?

middle school news

Elementary Chapel Focus 2013-14Many of our elementary chapels this year will focus on some aspect of creation. Students

will hear messages and media that help them understand:• Who God is as Creator• What it means to be created in the image of God• What can we learn about God when we look around at all that he has created?• How should we care for God’s creation?• How should I treat another person knowing that he or she is one of God’s creation?• How does our creativity reflect the character of God?• What happens when creation becomes broken? and muh more!

Teachers may also be assigning memory verses to help students understand the big idea of God and his creation. We’d love it if you encouraged conversations about the topic and practice on the memory verses at home!

Metro BashThe fifth annual Metro Bash was held September 13th prior to the home football game against NOAH.

What started out as a small carnival has grown into one of the largest fundraising events hosted by the Parent Teacher Fellowship. The PTF ministers to the needs of the teachers and uses these funds for special projects such as purchasing computers, Smart Boards, as well as providing holiday bonuses and gifts to faculty and staff.

The Bash is attended by hundreds of students and families and run by a small army of volunteers serving food, tending to games, and selling raffle tickets. The students enjoyed the inflatables, pony rides, photo booth, and a variety of food from Chick-fil-a to mini donuts. Thank you to the committee members and the many volunteers, students and parents, who made this year’s Bash so much fun!

Grandparents/Grandfriends DayWednesday, September 18th was no ordinary chapel day. Elementary’s music teacher

and chapel leader, Mrs. Beard, led the students in a performance especially designed for Grandparents and Grandfriends. Over 200 guests gathered in the auditorium for the special program and then were invited to attend the Book Fair in the library.

At Metro, we recognize that grandparents and senior adults are very special in our students’ lives. Celebrating Grandparents/Grandfriends Day allows us to honor the importance of our heritage, our community, and relationships across generations.

Thank you to the hundreds that attended. We appreciate you!

East Meets MetroMetro hosts students and faculty from Chongqing, China 95

On the evening of August 20th, several families waited at the airport, with signs and flowers, for the arrival of the students and faculty representing our sister school Chongqing, China 95. Metro hosted 23 students and two faculty while they spent a few days observing our classrooms and experiencing American home life and food. Friday, their last day in Tulsa, they experienced ranch living, farm animals, and armadillo races. They ended the day with a tour of Gilcrease Museum, where they were fascinated with the Indian art and headdresses. We look forward to continuing our relationship with this prestigious Chinese school.

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elementary news

athletics news

Victory for Girls Varsity Volleyball

Varsity Volley girls have celebrated several victories this season. They have swept sets against Verdigris, East Central, Memorial, Okay, and Cleveland. The Lady Patriots also won the Cleveland Invitational Tournament and travelled to ESPN Wide World of Sports where they beat teams from Buffalo and Corpus Christi.

Cross CountryThe Cross Country team has already competed in a few meets to start

their season. The runners started summer training in mid-July and now practice after school. Here are the team results from the first three meets:

Metro Cross Country Classic, August 23rd: Varsity boys - 3rd place Varsity girls - 3rd place JV boys - 3rd place MS boys - 2nd place MS girls - 1st place

Tulsa University hosted at Mohawk Park: Freshman boys – 2nd place MS boys – 2nd place MS girls – 1st place

Bishop Kelley hosted at Oral Roberts University Varsity boys – 9th place (1st in 4A) Varsity girls – 5th (1st in 4A) JV boys – 1st place MS boys – 4th place MS girls – 2nd place

HS, Southern Stampede at Joplin, MO, Sept. 21st: Varsity boys - 16th place With ten runners setting new 5K PR’s MS, Holland Hall, Sept 21st: MS girls – 2nd place With 15 runners setting new 1 mile PR’s

Congratulations Coach HenleyCongratulations to our tennis coach, Claire

Henley, who was named Tennis Coach of the Year 2012-2013 (4A – girls) by the Oklahoma Tennis Coaches Association. This is a prestigious award presented by other coaches to recognize outstanding coaching leadership and program development.

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Patriot Football off to a Great StartFriday Night Lights have been full of exciting football. The Patriots have won their first two games and are

hopeful for a successful season. They traveled to Edmond where they defeated Oklahoma Christian in a close game (14-13), then blew out NOAH in their first home game (50-0), and Broken Bow on the road (50-2).

Varsity Schedule:

Friday Sept. 27 @ Pawhuska 7:30

Friday Oct. 4 @ Blackwell 7:00

Friday Oct. 11 @ Dewey 7:00

Thursday Oct. 17 - Verdigris 7:00

Friday Oct. 25 @ Sperry 7:00

Friday Nov. 1 - Claremore Seq. 7:00

Friday Nov. 8 - Berryhill 7:00

J.V. SCHEDULE

Monday Sept. 30 @ Victory 6:30 Monday Oct. 7 Oologah 6:30 Monday Oct. 21 @ Lincoln 6:30 Monday Oct. 28 @ Cascia 6:00

7TH, 8TH, & 9TH SCHEDULETuesday Oct. 1 @Victory (7 & 8) 6:00, 7:00 Tuesday Oct 1 Cascia (9) 6:00 Tuesday Oct. 8 Cascia (6, 7 & 8) 5:30, 6:30, 7:30 Tuesday Oct. 15 Holland Hall (7 & 8) 6:00, 7:00 Tuesday Oct. 15 9th Grade TBD Tuesday Oct. 22 NOAH (7 & 8) 6:00, 7:00 Tuesday Oct. 29 @ Cascia (9) TBD Tuesday Oct. 29 @ Lincoln (7 & 8) 6:00, 7:00

athletics news

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Introducing M Power! MCA’s New MascotA couple of years ago, some members of the Cooperative Booster Club felt that it was time to refresh our

mascot, “Pat the Patriot”. Knowing that Metro’s 30th anniversary was coming soon, the decision was made to wait until this school year to make a change.

Bam! Mascots was selected to design and construct the new costume. This project, which cost approximately $5000, was made possible by donations from the Cooperative Booster, private patrons, cheerleaders, and the Class of 2013.

M Power made his public debut at the KOTV broadcast of 6 in the Morning show on Friday, September 13th. M Power was introduced to the students that afternoon at the elementary and high school pep rallies. He was also a big hit at the home football game that night.

An account has been set up for maintenance and custom costume expenses. If you are interested in contributing to the upkeep of M Power, contact Rob Sellers at rsellers@metroca.com.

More for Moore Donations delivered to Moore’s football teamsThe football team held its traditional father-son breakfast in August. Oklahoma’s Lieutenant Governor, Todd Lamb was the keynote speaker. To show the

team’s appreciation for the Lt. Governor’s attendance at the breakfast, the football moms wanted to do something special to honor him. Mr. Lamb has been intimately involved in the Moore recovery after the devastating tornado that hit in May. Because of his interest and work in the recovery process, the team and boosters decided to collect donations of new and gently used football equipment and cash to give to the Moore Middle School and High School football teams.

Becky Chapman and Kelli Frizzell were the liaisons between the two football programs. Once the donations were collected, they delivered the equipment and cash to the Moore Athletic Directors and coaches. Mrs. Chapman and Mrs. Frizzell commented on how the Moore athletic staff, who through the tragedy, are seeing and experiencing God’s goodness. The coaches shared how they see His hand in the recovery and in the hope of the people in the community, at the school and in their football program.

Camp ElectricKelsey Bedore, who performs in the high school worship band,

attended Camp Electric in Orlando over the summer. The one week Christian music camp was founded by Christian music artist Toby Mac. During the camp she worked with established artists, as well as people in the music production industry, learning how to improve her vocal performance skills. The highlight of her week was singing for and meeting Kari Jobe.

Fine Arts at Quartz MountainSeniors John Voth (photography), Carter Link (photography), Chisty

Kaneta (drawing/painting), and sophomore Julianne Thomison (modern dance) attended Quartz Mountain’s Oklahoma Summer Arts Institute held June 15th – 30th.

For two weeks during the summer Quartz Mountain Resort and Conference Center is transformed to an intensive academy for Oklahoma high school students in the fields of acting, creative writing, ballet, modern dance, orchestra, chorus, drawing/painting, photography, and film/video. Only a select group of approximately 250 students from Oklahoma are accepted by the Summer Art Institute to study their chosen field and participate in performances, gallery openings, film screenings, poetry readings, and more.

fine arts news

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alumni news

30th Anniversary Celebration

Metro celebrated its 30th Anniversary with families, alumni, faculty, staff, and students on August 24th. The evening began with a picnic on the lawn and a bbq feast by Metro dads Paul Eagleton and Ryan Myers. Alumni reunited and shared memories while the high school choir and various other talented students sang. After dinner, the Welcome Home concert was held in the auditorium. Matt Cooper (Metro Class of 2011) performed with his band Little Chief. Ty Mayfield (Metro Class of 2009) continued the concert, adding other alumni Eli Anderson and Zach Annett to his band. We are so grateful that they could break their touring and recording schedules to help us celebrate.

Retro Metro: Ty Mayfield , Class of 2009 What is your favorite Metro memory?

Goodness… making me choose? If I had to pick one favorite Metro memory, it would probably be my time performing in Mr. Metro (I know… surprising, the performer remembering that). But the whole experience was great. Blue Man Group & Jabbawockeez for the talent portion was a blast. I just loved how all of us came together to make a fantastic show for everyone. Wasn’t a bad thing taking the title home Senior year either!

What are you doing now?I’m currently finishing my last two college classes online, graduating

from Dallas Baptist University on my birthday, December 20th. I’m so ready to finally finish school! I live in Frisco, TX, working at Genesis Metro Church as the worship leader. If you don’t have a church home, feel free to watch online on Sundays.

Most of all, I’m pursuing a career in the music industry as a recording artist. My second full-length album is due out October 8th on iTunes. The first album ended up finding placements in stores like Hollister, Forever 21, and more. It’s also allowed me to tour in places all over the country, from Utah to North Carolina and everywhere in between. I’ve been fortunate enough to open for artists such as Andy Grammer, Dave Barnes, Parachute, and Tyler Ward. I’m hoping this new record will take my music career even farther.

How did Metro prepare you for the future?Metro prepared me for the future in many ways. I absolutely loved

my time while at Metro. First, Praise & Worship was a huge influence in my ability as a musician. Being able to play in a band (which I started out on drums for those of you who only know me as singer/piano guy) starting in 7th grade allowed me to continually grow as a musician. I was able to understand not only the best ways to play in a band or during a song, but also how a song should be arranged. It has also helped in leading worship at GM. Without that class, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Lastly (which there are plenty of other ways, but I don’t have enough space), there were many teachers and staff members that took the time to invest in me. Because the school is such a tight community, the staff is able to understand their students, which is something I’ll never take for granted. So to all the faculty that had an influence in my life, thank you for assisting in shaping who I am today.

Do you still keep up with Metro friends?I do! However, I don’t keep up with as many as I would like! All the

things I’m doing now keeps me so busy, and it’s very difficult being in Dallas. I’m stoked to be a part of Elijah Anderson’s wedding in November. He’s been with me throughout my whole music career by playing guitar for me. Zach Annett plays drums for me when possible. Joe Kane has produced every record I’ve made.

Other than those guys who are involved in my music, I try to keep up with as many as possible. That’s why it was so great seeing so many of my friends from the class of ’09 who were able to come to the welcome home concert. Miss all of you and can’t wait to catch up again soon!

What was it like coming home for the concert?Coming home for the concert was simply amazing. Everyone

there was so welcoming, and it just felt so good to be back home. I’m honored to have been asked to play at the concert. You all made it so much fun! I cannot wait to come back and play for you all after the new album releases. Thank you everyone who made it, and thank you for making the show such a blast!

What inspires your songs?Well, my songs tend to be puppy love songs most of the time.

I’m a romantic at heart, so it kind of comes out in my music as well. However, everyone strives for love, and that’s why I feel my music is so relatable. Also, I’m a sucker for catchy hooks. Anything that just grabs you, and then you can’t forget it. Because of that, I usually like to craft my songs in that way, so I’m sorry if you get any of my songs stuck in your head for way too long. Whether I start with a melody, lyric, or a progression on the piano, my ultimate goal is to craft something that is very relatable, something that either I or someone else is feeling, and something that is instantly memorable.

Anything else you’d like to say?Thanks for taking the time to read my answers! If you would, please

go pre-order or order (depending on if you read this before or after the 8th) my new record. It’s self-titled, so you’ll find it by searching “Ty Mayfield” on iTunes. Also, please go to my Twitter and Facebook page, and follow/like the page. Social media is huge in music. And lastly, if you like the music, please tell a friend!

To every one of you who have supported me in this music endeavor, thank you! I cannot thank you enough. Can’t wait to hear what you think of this new record, and excited to see you all again either at a show or somewhere random like a Starbucks.

The 2012 Headmaster’s Annual Appeal was a huge success. With the funds collected through the Appeal, Metro purchased all the items designated on the 2012 Wish List.

You can find your money at work in every area of the school. Thanks to your support, the school purchased the following items:

Academics - $63,500• Smartboards (3)• IPAD Carts (2) • Additional WIFI Bandwidth• TI Navigator Systems for Math Classrooms (2)• Added Sound Amplification to

Elementary Classrooms

Fine Arts - $45,400 • Completed the art display cases upstairs • Tenor Saxophones (2) • Alto Saxophone (1) • Percussion Drums • New Spotlights (2) • New Curtain for the Stage

Athletics - $41,100 • Commercial Washer/Dryer • Additional Lockers for the Girls

(to be installed soon) • Batting Cages • Soccer Field Sound System • Pole-Vault System & Cover • Cameras

Endowments - $15,000

development

11

From Vision to ProvisionRESULTS FROM HEADMASTERS ANNUAL APPEAL

Thank you for your gifts to help improve our school

Thank you to everyone who participated in the Appeal.

Smartboards

iPad Carts

Art Display Case New Curtain

Commercial Washer and Dryer Girl’s Lockers

Improved Wifi Band Instruments

NON PROFIT ORGUS POSTAGE

PAIDTULSA OK

PERMIT #589

Metro Christian Academy6363 South Trenton AvenueTulsa, OK 74136

Metro PTF Executive Board 2013-2014Co-Presidents Julie Callaway jcallaway4@cox.net 918-260-1073

Kim Rosencutter crosencutter@cox.net 918-630-3659

Past Presidents Linda Alaback L2alaback@aol.com 918-693-5454

Melissa Consedine Melissa.consedine@gmail.com 918-855-7752

Presidents Elect Amy Mills millsquad@cox.net 918-794-5233

Sally Sullivan sallymsullivan@gmail.com 918-625-5355

Secretary Tami Keeley tkeeley01@aol.com 918-899-8033

Chaplain Shannon Duncan shanduncan@cox.net 918-640-3644

Treasurer Laura Allman lauraallman12@gmail.com 918-706-0412

Treasurer Elect Belinda Packard jbpackard@cox.net 918-521-9143

High School VPs Vickey Francis vfrancis4@cox.net 918-688-7399

Stacey Tucker okpackers@yahoo.com 918-284-0897

Middle School VPs Debbie Eagleton debbie.eagleton@cox.net 918-691-5724

Arlene Mayes mayes6@cox.net 918-810-7034

Elementary VPs Tara Marcoux marcoux@swbell.net 918-289-3802

Debbie Row debbie.row@att.net 918-521-7126

UPCOMING EVENTS Save the Date

Fall Choir Concert

October 10, 7:00-8:00 pm

Elementary Walkathon October 11

P-3 – 2nd grade, 9:00 – 10:00 am 3rd – 5th grade, 10:30 – 11:30 am

10 x 10 Art Show Sale October 12

Show begins at 10:10 am, Sale begins at 3:00 pm

One Act Play and Fine Arts Preview October 22, 5:00-9:00 pm

Fall Open House Tuesday, October 22, 6:00 – 8:00 pm

Headmaster’s Town Hall Meeting October 24 , 7:00 – 8:00 pm November 21, 8:15 – 9:15 am

Cow Patty Bingo/Homecoming November 1

MCA Bazaar November 15

MCA BazaarNovember 15, 2013

MCA Walkathon 2013October 11, 2013 12

Tell Your Friends About Our Open HouseMCA will host the Fall Open House for prospective families on Tuesday, October 22nd, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. Please invite anyone who is considering a new school to come take

a look at what Metro has to offer. All grades will meet at 6:00 to begin a general introduction to Metro with the principals. Families will then be separated into Elementary and Secondary tours. Metro guests will be invited to attend the Fine Arts Preview at 7:00 p.m. in the auditorium.

For more information, please contact Debbie Clark, 918-745-9868 ext 164