2012 - 2013
Crusader Year in Review
Round Rock Christian Academy
Round Rock, Texas
Table of Contents
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RRCA Faculty and Staff
RRCA Board of Directors
School Stats
ADMINISTRATION
Rebecca Blauser, Head of School
Tiffany Jaksch, Secondary Principal
Rayeanne O’Brien, Elementary Principal
Kelly Counts, Early Childhood Principal
Dan Headley, Athletic Director
Lindsey Boyd, Development Director
Seniors
Secondary Highlights
Collegiate Athletes
Athletics
MISSION STATEMENT
Round Rock Christian Academy is a
Christ-centered,
college
preparatory
school equipping and developing students
to effectively integrate Biblical truth and
academic learning into their daily lives to
impact their community for Christ.
Elementary Highlights
Early Childhood Highlights
Serving Others
Extracurricular Activities
Arts & Culture
Fundraising
Notice of Student
Non-Discriminatory Policy
RRCA admits students of any race,
color, national and ethnic origin to all
the rights, privileges, programs, and
activities generally accorded or made
available to students at the school. It
does not discriminate on the basis of
race, color, national and ethnic origin in
administration of its educational policies,
admissions policies, scholarship and loan
programs, and athletic and other schooladministered programs.
The 2012-2013 school year was filled with many successes not only in academics, but also in exciting athletic events
and fine arts achievements. Continuing the tradition of academic excellence, the seniors in the Class of 2013 have been
offered on average $42,000 in scholarships from colleges and universities, and college entrance scores continue to be
well above state and national averages. The Senior Class of 2013 included Commended Scholars, All State Academic
recipients, and State Champions.
This past year will long be remembered as one of the most successful in RRCA athletics history, with TAPPS 3A State
Championships in volleyball, swimming and track, as well as Regional and State Final Four appearances in girls and boys
basketball. Four of the graduates have signed commitment letters to compete at the collegiate level in volleyball, track,
and basketball.
As you look over this summary of the 2012- 2013 school year, we hope that you will see what makes RRCA an exceptional
school. Whether you have contributed financially, served on the PST, coached a team, or volunteered as a homeroom
parent, your investment in the lives of RRCA students is one of the key factors to our success. Financially, the school
has had a prosperous year and plans have been made to add additional technology components to the academic program
for the new school year.
RRCA strives to bring Christian morals, ethics, and teaching into an overall program that provides education excellence
for students and families. In partnership with parents and churches, we share biblical truth and provide excellence in
academics that enables students to discern, embrace, and promote a Christian worldview. Our goal is to help develop
young leaders who embrace a Christian worldview and are able to make a lasting impact on future generations.
God continues to bless Round Rock Christian Academy greatly and we cannot wait to see what He has in store for us in
the future. Thank you for joining us in this journey.
Sincerely,
Rebecca Blauser
Rebecca Blauser, Head of School
2012-2013
RRCA Faculty and Staff
Mrs. Reed’s Retirement
After 18 years of service (1995-2013), Mrs. Marietta Reed has retired from her teaching career at
Round Rock Christian Academy. We recently spent some time with Marietta to ask her about some
of her teaching experiences while at RRCA.
How has RRCA grown and changed through the years?
My first year
in 1995, RRCA had about 150 total students in preschool through 8th grade, and all the classrooms
were in the main building and one portable building. Through the years, I have watched the worship
center/gym be built, seen a dozen portables brought in, parking lots created, the three-story building
constructed, and a variety of vans and buses purchased.
What is a favorite memory you have from your years at RRCA?
I
can’t narrow it down to one specific memory. However, in looking back I would say it is the spirit and
heart of RRCA. Everyone always pitched in, loved the students and each other, and got the job done.
The support that I received from Susan Owen, Becky Blauser, and Tiffany Jaksch (my administrators
while at RRCA) was and is unparalleled. I will always treasure their support and friendship. I was
overwhelmed by the generosity of the secondary staff when I had my cancer surgery in 2011. My
husband and I ate the food they brought us for almost a month! I have made lifelong friendships that I will always treasure.
What are your retirement plans?
My first goal is to get some rest and take a vacation in July. This summer
I am going to once again make time for my two favorite hobbies—quilting and amateur photography. I also intend to be more
involved in the Agape Pregnancy Resource Center, a charity that I have worked with since its inception. My long-term goal is to
start teaching women’s Bible studies during the week and to speak to women’s groups. My husband and I help co-parent our
grandson since our son is a single dad, and that will continue to be one of our highest priorities.
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2012-2013
RRCA Board of Directors
The Board of Directors acts as the legislative body in formulating policy for the conduct of the school. The Board is
directly responsible for approving the Mission and Vision Statement of the school and the policies under which the
school operates; approving the Strategic Plan and overseeing its preparation and implementation; hiring the Head of
School; approving the annual operating budget, including tuition levels; approving major capital expenditures; and
approving fundraising programs. The Board is responsible, through its oversight, for ensuring that the curriculum and
all of the activities of the school conform to the Mission Statement and the applicable policies of the school. The Board
has delegated to the Head of School the authority for the day-to-day operation of the school.
Mark Fritz
Chair
Steve Stearns
Vice-Chair
Grant Shelton
Treasurer
Remington Medical
Resorts
Wells Fargo Bank
Arnold Oil
Jennifer Garrett
Secretary
Community Impact
Newspapers
2012-2013
Rick Akins
Elizabeth Brenenstuhl
John Eckford
Don Eddleman
Terry Hagood
Nancy Madsen
Judy McLeod
Susan Oglesbee
Brent Orred
Bonnie Sells
Kathy Smith
Wade Sutherland
Todd Whitley
RRCA Foundation Board
The Board of Trustees acts as the fundraising oversight body for the school’s Annual Fund and capital campaigns. The
Board is responsible for assisting with the cultivation, solicitation, and stewardship of prospective donors; advising
staff and leadership on matters related to fundraising and campaigns; advising staff on the investment of endowment
funds; and communicating with the Board of Directors on matters related to fundraising programs. The Board has
delegated to the Executive Director of the Round Rock Christian Academy Foundation the authority for the day-to-day
operations of the Foundation.
Keith Hickman
Chair
KAH Architecture
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Bob Schweter
Vice-Chair
Dell, Inc.
Alan Richey
Treasurer
Bonnie Sells
Secretary
Dell, Inc.
Alpha Painting &
Decorating Co., Inc.
Jim Boles
Summit Commercial
School Stats
• RRCA offers AP and dual credit courses through Austin Community College to help graduates
obtain college credits during high school.
• Dual credit students earn on average 18 college credits while attending RRCA.
• 71% of high school students participate in RRCA athletics, and 68% of high school students
participate in fine arts (choir, drama, art, and forensics).
• Kindergarten – 11th grade students consistently score higher than 80% of the nation on yearly
standardized testing.
Pursuing Higher Education • Approximately 94% of RRCA students pursue higher education
• 2009 – 2013 graduates were offered over $1,000,000 per
class in higher education scholarships, totally an average of
$42,000 per graduate.
• 78% of RRCA graduates have earned their college degree or
are currently in attendance at various colleges or universities.
Class of 2013
College Entrance Exams
SAT Composite
National 1504*
Texas
1458*
RRISD1614*
Class of 2013
1634
5 year RRCA
1677
Average
ACT Composite
National
Class of 2013
5 year RRCA
Average
21*
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24.2
*Numbers are based on a 5 year average.
2013 numbers have not been released.
Student Body
2012-2013 Recap
Enrollment
PreK Students
Teacher/Student Ratio
Elementary Students
Teacher/Student Ratio
Secondary School
Teacher/Student Ratio
Senior Class
524
80
1:11
244
1:17
200
1:15
21
Ethnicity
African-American
Asian
Biracial
Caucasian
Hispanic
Indian
Other
8%
5%
2%
69%
11%
1%
3%
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2013 Senior Class
The Class of 2013 celebrated their
graduation on May 24, 2013 amid
family, friends, faculty, and the
RRCA Board of Directors. Brandy
Gratten, a former RRCA graduate
and 2012 Austin ISD Teacher
of the Year, gave an inspiring
and challenging message to the
graduates. Several students were
honored for special achievements
and scholarships, and the class
was commended for receiving
outstanding
academic
and
athletic awards. One student
was presented the Susan Owen
Scholarship by the Parent Support
Team (PST) and three students
were recognized for attending
RRCA
from
Kindergarten
through 12th grade. In addition,
this class included TAPPS 3A
state champions in volleyball and track, members of Regional and Final Four basketball teams, District MVP’s in
volleyball and basketball, members of the 1st and 2nd All District, and All State teams and Players of the Year
in volleyball and basketball. This class set 18 school athletic records in volleyball, basketball and track. The
graduates are leaders in their churches and youth groups, have supported each other in prayer and friendship, and
have given their underclassmen a great example of leadership to follow.
The 2013 Valedictorian, Josh Cook, attended RRCA
beginning with 7th grade. While at RRCA, Josh was active
in football, baseball and Student Council. Outside of school,
Josh works for the Round Rock Express baseball team and
is active in his church youth group and mission trips. Josh
plans to study Biomedical Engineering and Chemical and
Biological Engineering at the University of Colorado and
will be in the school’s Honors Program. His fellow class
member and Salutatorian Daniel Eldred attended RRCA
since the 6th grade. Daniel played football and was named
a Commended National Merit student. Daniel volunteers at
a local food pantry and assists with Backyard Bible Clubs.
Daniel was selected to be in the Texas Christian University’s
Honors Program and will study mechanical engineering.
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I think RRCA gave me not only knowledge,
but a drive and work ethic that made my
first year at college more successful than
many of my peers.
RRCA prepared me well for college. By the time I
graduated, I already knew how to study and manage my
time well, which is really useful when you are balancing
multiple college courses.
Elizabeth Birkman, Class of 2012,
Texas Tech University
Jenna Grosser, Class of 2012,
University of North Texas
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The
Class of
2013
was offered $852,836
in scholarships from
various colleges and
organizations, which is
an average of $42,000
per graduate.
Moriah Mae Adams
Jonathan D. Fenwick
Stephen Gabriel Oates
Austin Community College
Nursing
Missouri Southern State University
Business Management
Howard Payne University
Engineering
Jodi Rae Baird
Jeremy Nathaniel Frisa
Tyler Stuart Severson
Tarleton State University
Psychology, Agricultural
Sciences and Development
Austin Community College/
Texas Tech University
Mechanical Engineering
Hardin Simmons University
Computer Science
Samuel Paul Berg
Aidan Conner Hamlin
Schreiner University
Nursing
Austin Community College
Computer Programming
Mallory Elaine Blauser
Tia-Ashley Hope Jones
University of Cincinnati
Secondary Education Chemistry
Andrews University
English on a Pre-Professional
Law Program
Joshua Russell Cook
Colorado State University
Biomedical Engineering, Chemical
and Biological Engineering
Yerin (Kim) Kim
Sydney Elizabeth Counts
Ryan Kirby Lamb
Sam Houston State University
Chemistry
Blinn College
Undergraduate Studies
Daniel R. Eldred
Caleb Nathaniel Moore
Texas Christian University
Mechanical Engineering
Austin Community College/
Abilene Christian University
Business Administration
University of Texas-San Antonio
Business and Finance
Ashley Hope Shelton
Tarleton State University
Secondary Education in Chemistry
Nadia Shavelle Simpson-Hardy
Austin Community College
Physical Therapy
Thomas Wade Smotherman
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University
Aeronautical Science
Karina Paulette Torres-Diaz
The Art Institute of Austin
Culinary Management
RRCA was intricate in preparing me for my college
career. From the comprehensive English and science
courses, to the challenging math classes, I was well
prepared for university academics. My freshman
year I was admitted to the honors English courses
at Oral Roberts University, and I can definitely point
to RRCA for equipping me to succeed.
Bennett Seibert, Class of 2012,
Oral Roberts University
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Secondary Highlights
Homecoming
week
was filled with excitement as students showed their
school spirit leading up to the big game on Friday. The
Student Council planned themes for each day of the
week so students could show off their school spirit.
Monday students came to school Dressed to Impress,
Tuesday students dressed like their favorite Disney
character, Wednesday students dressed in their favorite
collegiate wear, Thursday was class color day and Friday
students wore their Crusader spirit t-shirts. Thursday
night the high school students cheered on the team at
a Homecoming Spirit Rally with games, pizza and an
inspiring speech by Coach Rodnei. On Friday, the team
was pumped up for the game with a school-wide pep
rally. The Crusaders were victorious with a score of 4219 against the Williamson County Homeschool Falcons.
The Homecoming Court was recognized during half-time, and members of the court included:
Freshmen:
Madison Whitley and Zach Adams
Sophomores: Rachel Grosser and Jacob Parker
Juniors:
Rebecca Wolff and Josh Jacks
Seniors:
Mallory Blauser and Josh Cook
Tia-Ashley Jones and Jonathan Fenwick
Sydney Counts and Caleb Moore
Ashley Shelton and Wade Smotherman
Karina Torres-Diaz and Gabe Oates
After the Court was presented, the highly-anticipated moment
arrived for the crowning of King and Queen. Mallory Blauser
was crowned Queen and Jonathan Fenwick was crowned
King.
Cultivating
Christian Faith
It is the mission of Round Rock Christian Academy to build a
Biblical foundation of truth in our students. Students attend
Bible classes each week in which their teacher develops and
encourages growth in students. Each month students attend
Chapel that includes worship led by a praise band and a
faith-building message by local youth ministers. In addition,
students attended Spiritual Emphasis week in March, which
was led this year by Jacob Robison and worship was led by
Price Hill. Spiritual Emphasis week is a time when many lifechanging decisions are made and hearts are changed.
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Collegiate Athletes
It has been an incredible year for several
student athletes, and four of the
graduating seniors plan to continue
their athletic pursuits at the collegiate
level in the fall. Mallory Blauser, who
was awarded the TAPPS 3A Athlete
of the Year, will become a Bearcat
playing volleyball at the University
of Cincinnati. Tyler Severson and his
track shoes will head off to HardinSimmons University. Sam Berg will take
his hoop dreams to Kerrville to play
basketball at Schreiner University, and
Gabe Oates will be playing basketball
at Howard Payne University. Each of
these athletes received scholarships
to attend school and compete in their
respective sports.
Winter Formal and Junior/Senior Prom
The Student Council hosted a Winter Formal January 13, 2013 for all high school students. This year’s theme
was Casablanca--A Black and White Affair. Students came dressed in red, black and white semi-formal apparel.
Students had a great time at this event dancing, talking, laughing and eating great food. This event was a perfect
kick-off to the second semester.
The Junior/Senior prom was April 13, 2013 at Star Ranch. The theme was Hollywood and the décor include
the iconic Hollywood sign and Oscar statues. Students made a grand entrance on the red carpet complete with
paparazzi and media photos. Students spent the evening dancing, taking zany “dress-up” photos in the photo
booth and enjoying the candy bar. Throughout the night there were drawings for prizes that included Beats
headphones, an Ipad, laptop, and a television. The night ended with the crowning of the Prom Queen and King,
Tia-Ashley Jones and Gabe Oates.
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RRCA
Athletics
Volleyball
The Varsity volleyball team and Coach Susan Hart returned to unfinished
business in August, anticipating a playoff bid with 6 returning starters from the
previous season. Led by Seniors Mallory Blauser and Ashley Shelton, the team
went to work in several pre-season tournaments, winning first place in the West
Tournament against several public schools and defeating 5A Copperas Cove.
The team completed their storybook season by winning the TAPPS 3A State
Volleyball Championship and posting a 38-3 final record for the season. In route
to the first state volleyball championship in RRCA history, the team played tough
matches against Lago Vista High
School, which gave the Lady
Crusaders 2 of their 3 season
losses, and outlasted a feisty
Austin Brentwood team for the
outright district championship.
Their playoff run was nearly
perfect (15-1) with one loss in
the state semi-finals, and the
Lady Crusaders finished with an
overall best season record and
first state championship for the
RRCA volleyball program.
Basketball
The Lady Crusaders basketball program has seen a lot of success over the
years and looked to continue that tradition for 2012-13 with Head Coach
Doug Doty. The Crusaders boys were learning a new system under new
Head Coach Christian Mueller. Both the basketball teams were competing
at a high level once district play began, and the excitement continued
as the teams stayed on top in the district race during January. Mallory
Blauser for the Lady Crusaders and Jesse Richards for the Crusaders both
had game-winning baskets to beat the buzzer and win key games. The
Crusaders won the district championship, fulfilling their team slogan of
“Worst to First,” and the Lady Crusaders came in as the second place team
in the playoffs.
Both teams went on to host the first and second round playoff games
and won those games in dramatic fashion. In Regional playoff action, the
Crusaders drew a tough team in The Woodlands Christian Academy, two-time defending state champions who had
defeated the Crusaders two years earlier. The Crusaders fought to the
very end but were not able to continue their playoff run. For their Regional
match, the Lady Crusaders battled Tomball Rosehill, who has been a tough
rival for several years. The Lady Crusaders pulled away in the second half
on some great defensive stops, winning the game and advancing to the
State Final Four match. The Lady Crusaders were up against hometown
rivals Austin Brentwood for the state semi-final match, against whom the
Crusaders had split the regular season district games, with each team
winning on their own court. The Lady Crusaders run at a second state
championship in one school year fell short, but both basketball teams had
successful seasons and believed they could dream big and made it happen.
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Swimming
Freshman Madeline Tweden, a devoted yearround swimmer, and Sophomore Cayden Orred,
who swims during the summer season, took to the
water to represent RRCA in TAPPS competition. Both
swimmers competed at the TAPPS Regional swim meet,
where Madeline won first place in both the women’s
200 yard freestyle and the 500 yard freestyle. Cayden
finished third in the men’s 100 yard backstroke and
fifth in the men’s 100 yard freestyle, and their finishes
qualified both swimmers for the TAPPS State swim
meet. Madeline swam her way to a state championship
in the women’s 200 yard freestyle and then placed 3rd
in the 500 yard freestyle. Cayden came away from the
state meet with his personal best times, finishing 5th
in the men’s 100 yard backstroke and 10th in the 100
yard freestyle.
Soccer
Varsity Track
This spring was the inaugural season for a co-ed 5th
and 6th grade soccer team with over 20 students.
After a few practices, the team went straight into
league games, where they caught everyone by
surprise. The team, coached by Andrea Cermak and
assisted by Nathan Curley and Earl Samaroo, kicked
their way through the season, finishing undefeated
and the top seed in the end of season tournament.
The Crusaders won both games and were named the
ACAA Elementary Soccer Champions!
In high school track, Tyler Severson had a personal
goal to defend his 2012 state championships in
the 100 meter and 200 meter.
After medaling
once again in his favored events at District and
Regionals, Tyler made his last appearance at the
TAPPS 3A track meet at Baylor University on May
11, 2013. With Coach Rutherford, family, and
friends on hand to cheer Tyler on, he repeated his
gold medal performance in the 100 meter and won
the silver medal in the 200 meter. Tyler finished
his RRCA high school career as one of the most
decorated RRCA track athletes, with 3 state gold
medals, 2 state silver medals, and numerous 1st
place finishes at the District and Regional level.
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Elementary Highlights
The kindergarten through fifth grade elementary classes continued to lay a strong spiritual and collegepreparatory educational foundation at RRCA during the 2012-2013 school year.
The chapel services started each week with
Rock the Flock, a talented group of fifth graders
who have a passion to lead their peers in praise
and worship. Special speakers and programs
helped our students consider how to find and
fulfill God’s will for their lives. Grandparents’
Day, Veteran’s Day and Spiritual Fitness were
just a few of the outstanding chapel programs
this year. Students researched and prepared
speeches for the Heroes of the Faith series
with third graders selecting Christian Heroes,
fourth graders choosing Texas Heroes and fifth
graders preparing a unique Military Heroes
Wax Museum presentation.
RRCA Families were invited to build
relationships through various activities during
the year. Muffins with Mom, Donuts with Dad,
Grandparents Day, and the Daddy-Daughter
dance were all a big hit with elementary families.
The Parent Support Team (PST) hosted the first
Family Movie Night and families had a great
night out at the movies (in the gym) complete
with popcorn, hot dogs, and their RRCA friends.
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Unique learning activities continued throughout the year with an elementary mock Presidential
Election, a Rock Solid Fire Safety program, spelling bees, Math Olympics, Dental Health week, Black History
month activities, induction into the National Junior Honor Society and Honors Award chapels. A special
emphasis was given to make our Terra Nova Testing (TNT) “dynamite” during the spring, accompanied by
our B.U.G.S. (Becoming Useful Godly Servants) to emphasize the importance of serving others in our homes
and communities.
The elementary Reading program included many new exciting activities this year, along with the
addition of a new librarian, Jennifer Mayo. Teachers built classroom libraries and added browsing boxes
with Reading Response journals to their instructional programs, as teachers continued to differentiate
reading according to each student’s ability. As part of the Scholastic Summer Reading program, our
elementary readers ranked 158 in the world and earned free books at one of our two Scholastic Book
fairs held this year.
Teachers and administrators were involved in professional development all year. Kindergarten and
first grade teachers attended conferences by Dr. Jean, a nationally known author and presenter of cognitive
songs and learning activities. First through third grade teachers learned about educational best practices
at the Texas State Conventions for their grade levels, and fourth and fifth grade teachers attended language
arts training. Teachers were also instructed in how to use new technology in their classrooms with Mimeos
(interactive white board systems) and document cameras. Teachers also participated in workshops on
writing benchmarks, non-negotiable spelling words by grade level, and Professional Learning communities.
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Early Childhood
Preschool Goes to the Movies
On Thursday, May 24 the Early Childhood department
all went to the RRCA drive-in movie theater. The
Prekindergarten students worked diligently to
create a character-themed cardboard car to “drive”
to school. From Spiderman to Speed Racer, and
Mater to Disney Princess, the cardboard cars were
on parade as they travelled across the campus to the
Central’s Youth Building to watch Wreck It Ralph on
the big screen. Mrs. Howard’s 3 year old class arrived
in style in a cardboard stretch limousine that was
handcrafted by Danny Tam. Mrs. Engelbrecht’s class
watched the movie from a beautifully constructed
school bus created by parent Holley Kitchen. The
students and parents had such fun with this annual
tradition.
Stars of the Stage
On December 10, the Early Elementary students presented the musical, “Give Your Heart to Jesus,” for the entire
faculty and student body at the All School Christmas Chapel. It was a spectacular memorable event that celebrated
the wonder of the Christmas story. On May 29, the Early Elementary students performed a Noah’s Ark themed
musical in conjunction with the PreKindergarten graduation. It was amazing to see 3 and 4 year old children all
attempting to sing and dance in harmony and unison. Our students do an incredible job under the direction of
Preschool music teacher Eileen Curtis.
Foam Party
The Early Elementary department did
an awesome job with securing pledges,
raising over $9,500 for the jog-a-thon!
So many families participated in our
annual jog-a-thon by giving sacrificially
and volunteering their time to help
supervise or count laps. Every class
in the Early Childhood department
earned a party in a sudsy, splashy,
foamy pit of fun. The students had a
terrific time sliding around with their
classmates on May 29 in celebration
of a great accomplishment for the
Academy.
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Serving Others
Students at RRCA are encouraged to participate in local service opportunities as well as mission trips in the United
States and beyond. For the second year in a row, RRCA partnered with the Backpack Coalition to provide weekly food for
70 underprivileged students at a local elementary school. Parents and students participated by purchasing food items,
donating funds, making the food kits, and distributing the food each Friday of the school year.
In addition to local service opportunities, many of our high school students choose to take mission trips with their
churches and youth groups. Below are highlights from recent mission trips our seniors participated in.
Jodi Baird: Dominican Republic
I was praying one day about wanting to be Jesus’ feet, and the Dominican
Republic was on my heart. Just a few weeks later, my church announced
a mission trip to the Dominican and I knew I was supposed to go. On
this mission trip, I feel like I learned how to be a follower. I’ve always
been told I’m a leader, and I never focused on how to follow. But during
my time there I really learned when to lead and when to follow. What
was most memorable about this mission trip was the willingness of the
people to learn about a Creator and a Savior and their acceptance of it.
Also, the violence in such a spiritually dark country was really shocking
to me. An unpleasant memory was that I brought the West Nile virus
home with me.
Sydney Counts: Guatemala
I went on a mission trip to Guatemala the summer of 2012. We stayed at Hope of Life
International in Llano Verde and traveled by bus every day to a village called Pueblo
Modelo. I really wanted to go on this trip because I had gone to the same place the
summer before and had absolutely fallen in love with the culture and the people. My
favorite moments were working and playing with the kids in an orphanage at Hope of
Life and also in the village. We gave them simple toys and played games like “duck,
duck, goose” and soccer with them. All they wanted was someone to spend time with
them and show them love. It was life changing to see their joy and contentment, even
amidst terrible circumstances. I learned through this trip how important it is to step
out of my comfort zone to help and minister to people. I learned that God can use
anyone who has a willing heart, and that by simply loving I can completely transform
someone else’s world.
Tia-Ashley Jones: Mindoro (Philippines)
I participated in the Share Him mission trip campaign to the island of Mindoro in
the Philippines from May 28-June 15, 2013. God provided the opportunity and I
felt that if He opened the door for me to go, then He knew in divine wisdom that
I was ready for such a trip. One of the most memorable experiences was when a
lady approached me and said that she was touched and encouraged me to keep up
the good work. When she was speaking, I realized God had truly sent her to me
to remind me that even if I didn’t feel adequate God was still working through me.
The Lord did a mighty work in the Philippines, in the hearts of the people there,
as well as in my heart. Over 719 people were baptized during this outreach effort
at multiple sites throughout the Philippines. Through this trip, my perspective
changed, and I learned to truly trust God in everything and to seek Him, which was
a needed lesson as I prepare to head off to college this Fall.
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Extracurricular
Activities
Round Rock Christian Academy strives to provide
students a complete high school experience. Students at
RRCA have the opportunity to participate in a wide range
of extracurricular and student activities. RRCA students
are able to compete in choir, forensics, art, drama and
academics. In addition, students can be members of the
Student Council, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Spanish
Club and Service Clubs. These clubs provide students with
opportunities to be more involved in their communities
and develop leadership skills by serving in officer
positions. RRCA encourages students to be involved in
several organizations in order to develop well-rounded
Christian leaders.
National Honor Society
Round Rock Christian Academy recognizes students who excel academically through induction to the National
Honor Society. The school has three National Honor Society chapters: Elementary, Middle and High School.
The rigorous application process requires that students demonstrate involvement in service organizations and
extracurricular activities in addition to excellent grades. Applications are reviewed by an academic council to
determine which students should be inducted in this prestigious society. For the 2012-2013 school year, seven
middle school students were inducted to the National Junior Honor Society. The ceremony featured essays
written and presented by the students that highlighted the National Honor Society traits of Scholarship, Service,
Leadership, and Character
Six high school students were inducted into
the National Honor Society, which represents
the highest quality of academic excellence.
The ceremony included guest speaker Wade
Sutherland, who encouraged the students to be
“outliers” in Christian example and academic
excellence. To maintain membership in the
National Honor Society, members are required to
maintain high academic standards, accumulate
service hours, and participate in extracurricular
activities.
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Arts & Culture
Faculty Spotlight: Nancy Brinegar
Nancy Brinegar has taught music and choir students at RRCA for 25 years.
We recently asked her to share some of her experiences as one of the longesttenured faculty members here at the Academy.
How has RRCA grown and changed through the years? When I started,
the school was called Lake Creek Baptist Academy and had around 80 students,
from PreKindergarten to 6th grade. The school name was later changed to
Central Baptist Academy, then Round Rock Christian Academy.
What is one of your favorite parts of the music program? For many
years, the middle school choirs have travelled to local nursing homes and
retirement centers to sing to the residents. I enjoy hearing the choir students’
comments in the van after they have performed. The comments from the
students are the same after each trip, and include: “That was so much fun...
That lady (or man) didn’t want to let go of my hand...One of the elderly folks
said it reminded them of when they were young and sang in a choir...One of
them thought I was their son (or daughter)...They sang with us!...I wish we
could go more often.”
What has helped you grow professionally? When the school added middle school and high school grades,
I plunged into areas that were totally new to me. The thing that has helped me keep my head above water
has been attending the Texas Music Educators and the Texas Choral Directors conventions each year. I am so
appreciative of the school allowing me to attend these professional development opportunities. They have been
my choir lifeline.
What is in store for your high school students this year? Since 2008, the High Call Choir has been taking
out-of-state trips every two years. In the spring of 2014, the choir will be travelling to New York City and will
be performing with other Christian school choirs at Carnegie Hall.
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RRCA Fundraising
Annual Fund
Through the support of generous donors, over $320,000* was
raised for the Annual Fund at RRCA during the 2012-2013 school year!
Here are just a few examples of how these dollars benefitted RRCA
this year:
• Mimio projectors for 85% of the 1st – 12th grade classrooms
• 16 new laptops and computers
• Trajectory Computer Curriculum to be offered to RRCA
students in 2013-2014 school year
• Monitors and software for 30 student computers
• Security and camera system for main building and education
building
* This amount includes in-kind gifts
2012 Annual Fund Gala
The 2012 Annual Fund Gala was held on Friday, November 9 at the
Westin Austin at the Domain. Co-chaired by Sandra Brougher and
Stephanie Severson, the gala included a wonderful dinner and featured
keynote speaker, Lee Strobel, bestselling author of The Case for Christ.
Guests were treated to a performance by the RRCA High Call Choir, and
bid on some great items in the live and silent auction. Congressman
John Carter presented the 2012 Crusader Award to Jo Markham,
Director of Development at the Agape Pregnancy Center. The event
raised over $126,000 for the Annual Fund at Round Rock Christian
Academy.
Sponsors
Crusader Sponsor
Sandra and George Littlejohn
Bronze Sponsors
Austin Coatings
Becky and Jeff Blauser
V.I.P. Reception Sponsor
Lindsey and Will Boyd
Alpha Painting & Decorating Co., Inc. Sandra and David Brougher
Community Impact Newspaper
Platinum Sponsors
Don Eddleman, efg&m, L.P.
Photography by Denise
Hagood Engineering Associates
Georgann and Todd Whitley
Tiffany and Todd Jaksch/
Rayeanne O’Brien
Gold Sponsors
KAHickman Architects and
Beth and Charles Avery
Interior Designers
Monti and Jim Boles
Judy and Wade McLeod
Summit Commercial
Nyle Maxwell Family of Dealerships
Leffingwell & Associates,
Pamela and Arlyn Owens
P.C. Attorneys at Law
Jeanne Stearns, Perfect Tree Realty
R Bank
Silver Sponsors
Suzy and Jeff Rusk/
Andrea and Dan Cermak
The Rusk Law Firm
Joyce and Mark Fritz
Stephanie and Todd Severson
Law Office of Victoria Soto
Tricor Technologies, Inc.
Maxwell Locke & Ritter LLP
Wells Fargo Bank
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8th Annual Jog-a-Thon
The 8th Annual Jog-a-Thon was held on Friday, April 19. Students in
preschool through 8th grade ran 11,603 laps and raised over $79,000
for the Annual Fund. Gatti’s Pizza generously donated a pizza party to
encourage our students to run their best to meet the goal of 10,000 laps.
Students that raised over $300 were treated to a Hummer limousine
ride to a local restaurant. Each preschool class received a foam party
at the end of the school year for averaging over $1,500 per class. RRCA
parents Michelle Kircher and Danny Tam did a wonderful job as cochairs for this event.
Crusaderball
On Friday, April 12, all high
school students competed in
the 2nd Annual CrusaderBall
dodgeball tournament, raising
over $18,000 for the Annual
Fund. The students were placed
on teams that worked together to
raise funds prior to the event, and
then enjoyed a barbecue lunch
to kick off the tournament. The
Dodgers, led by team captain Josh
Cook, won the ultimate prize as
the winners of the tournament
and had their team name added
to the CrusaderBall trophy. Team
Abusement Park, led by captain
Wade Smotherman, was treated
to an off-campus lunch for being
the top fundraising team, raising
a total of $7,575.
Sponsors
Platinum Sponsors
Alpha Painting & Decorating Co., Inc.
Leffingwell & Associates,
P.C. Attorneys at Law
Gold Sponsors
Gatti’s Pizza
Maxwell Locke & Ritter LLP
Silver Sponsors
D&N Tool, Inc.
Independent Bank
Round Rock Karate Academy
Triple Crown Dog Academy
Watkins Insurance
Bronze Sponsors
Akins, Nowlin & Prewitt,
Attorneys and Counselors at Law
Athletic Tune-Up Professionals
Community Impact Newspaper
Don Eddleman, efg&m, L.P.
Odyssey Technical Solutions
Real Estate by Stuart Sutton
Scott & White Health Plan
Wag-A-Bag
Annual Fund Parent Dinner
RRCA families enjoyed a fun evening out at the Annual Fund Parent KickOff Dinner on Friday, September 28, co-chaired by Andrea and Dan Cermak.
RRCA faculty and staff served families an Italian buffet dinner and the event
featured a silent auction of themed baskets, a live auction of elementary
student artwork, and a rousing keynote speech from Wade Sutherland,
Family Pastor at Celebration Church. Everyone had a great evening with
family and friends, and the event raised over $10,000 for the Annual Fund.
RRCA
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Mission Statement
Round Rock Christian Academy is a
Christ-centered, college preparatory
school equipping and developing
students to effectively integrate Biblical
truth and academic learning into their
daily lives to impact their community
for Christ.
Vision Statement
Round Rock Christian Academy will be
the standard for college-preparatory,
Christian education.
301-A North Lake Creek Drive • Round Rock, Texas 78681 • 512.255.4491
Accreditation/Affiliations
Association of Christian Schools International; Texas Private School Accreditation Commission; Texas Association of Private and Parochial
Schools; Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development; International Association of Christian Schools and Administrators;
National Association of Secondary School Principals; The College Board; Southern Association of College and Schools; and the Texas Gifted and
Talented Association; Member, Round Rock Chamber of Commerce, Association of Fundraising Professionals, Texas Association of Non-Profit
Organizations, Greenlights for Non-Profit Success