PCScene
A P U B L I C AT I O N O F PA S A D E N A C H R I S T I A N S C H O OL
VOLUME 24
NUMBER 01
SUMMER 2012
PCS Students Reaching Out To The World
Learning to care for others starts early at PCS. In Kindergarten, students receive a weekly chart noting whether or
not they were "Kind to my Friends." Students are also rewarded for doing nice things for their fellow students with
a "Positive" Student Observation. This philosophy of looking out for others and living one's Christian ethics is
integral to the school's core objectives, one of which is:
Citizenship
We strive to have each student:
• Demonstrate sensitivity to the similarities and differences of others
• Develop abilities to work productively in group settings
• Demonstrate obedience and respect for those in authority to achieve optimal group goals
• Identify with Christian ethics and values in all situations.
(For a full list of objectives, see www.pasadenachristian.org/about-pcs/test2b.cfm.)
Being an active, concerned world citizen starts early and continues on throughout one’s time at PCS. Through our
many outreach opportunities on campus, our students can choose a variety of ways to help others – both near and
far away. A few of our most popular, long-standing Student Outreach projects are highlighted in the following articles.
Operation Christmas Child
Beginning in October, all PCS students (even the preschoolers) are given an opportunity to fill a shoebox with small
toys, school supplies, personal items, etc., for children in developing nations, through the organization Samaritan’s
Purse. The shoeboxes join with thousands of others from around the world and are distributed at Christmas time to
needy children. At the annual Thanksgiving chapel in November, the students and families of PCS present their
shoeboxes on stage. This past year the total came to about 275 shoeboxes, and in years past, it has been well
over 350. One year, the UPS delivery man was so impressed by our project that he brought in his own shoebox to
contribute. Organizing teachers Kristal Gallego and Margot Bricker say a special, "Thank you to all our families
for participating year after year; it is a real blessing to the children in need." (Continued on Page 2)
Reaching Out to the World (cont’d)
Annual Missions Project
During the month of January, the focus of our school chapel is missions. Each year, PCS selects a different project
to support and for which to raise funds. Over the past few years, the students and families have supported Tsunami
Relief; Hurricane Katrina Relief; digging wells, providing school supplies, building a bath house for a school and an
orphanage in Swaziland, Africa; supporting a Microfinance program helping people become self-supporting and in
turn helping others; purchasing solar panels and technology hardware along with supplying a library in Papua New
Guinea, to name a few.
This past year, each class selected a project from the Samaritan’s Purse gift catalog. Among the projects selected
were: providing materials to help children grow in their faith, providing funds for purchasing chicks, honeybees,
goats, medicine, water filters, mosquito nets and instructional reading materials. On average, our students raise
$7,000-$9,000 each year to support mission efforts around the world. Thank you, Elementary Principal Mrs. Bailey,
for your commitment to this particular project.
The PCS Blood Drive is an annual event organized by the Junior High Student Council along with their advisor
and Jr. High Teacher Kerrianne Coe-Renner. Working with the American Red Cross, council members learn about
the constant need for healthy blood. They pass on this knowledge to the entire Junior High, encouraging students
to go out and ask potential donors to sign up. Students know that according to the Red Cross, the number one
reason people don't give is simply because they are not asked thus making the students’ effort vital to the life-saving
process. We average 40-50 donors. By hosting a blood drive every year, it is our hope that not only will we have a
successful drive and give young leaders valuable practice in implementation of a significant event, but also that
we will instill in our students the importance of blood donation. “We want our PCS grads to be part of the next
generation of blood donors!” says Mrs. Coe-Renner.
When asked how the blood drive affected her, eighth grade Student Council Member Serene
Babikian stated, “It made me think about others - people in need of blood. By just a single donation,
they could be saved. It was nice to see many donors come to PCS and give blood. That made me
personally think about my decision to donate blood one day.”
Included in the special projects mentioned above students also raise funds to support a local learning and resource
center for children with Down’s syndrome, collect books for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, and collect tab tops
from aluminum cans to support Ronald McDonald House. If you would like to learn more about any of the projects
above, or want to take part as an alum, please contact the school.
Preschool Picassos
Picasso said, “Every child is an artist.” At Pasadena Christian Preschool, we couldn’t agree more! Inspired by the
preschool art studios in Italy, our studio is designed to be a haven of creativity for young minds!
In an effort to foster this creativity, the Preschool welcomed Monica Bucknam to our staff as our new art teacher this past
year. With a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, she has won many accolades for her work in cinema and network
television. She has been a fantastic addition to our dynamic team of teachers and has truly inspired our children to delve
into the world of art! In the studio, children learn about various artists and they experience inspired techniques, methods
and artistic mediums. From woodworking and painting to sculpture and clay, our students are challenged with developing
their creativity, spatial reasoning, and problem solving skills to create beautiful masterpieces that are worthy of the mantle!
We look forward to how our students will be inspired as they continue to explore and expand their artistic talents.
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PCScene Summer 2012
Julia Swanson acts out the book
Teddy Bears Have Their Picnic.
Makani San-Martin & Isaac Lai take turns
at the water table and observe how water
moves the wheel.
Outdoor Learning
Red Cross Blood Drive
Willem Klop hand built a baby elephant
using clay.
Liam Selak sees how big he can make the bubbles.
Lara Georgian, Audrey Meleka and Kailee Sunada
collaborate on a mural towards a shared goal.
In a world driven by technology, children are increasingly missing out on the daily pleasures of learning through
nature and play. Many preschools are now realizing the value of offering expanded outdoor teaching experiences.
Organizations like the Child Education Center in La Canada have started initiatives such as “The Outdoor
Classroom Project” to implement outdoor learning on a larger scale. While the project started locally, it has taken
root and is now making national headway. Organizations such as Nature Explore and the National Association for
the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) have taken a keen interest and are pushing the philosophy of providing
engaging outdoor experiences for children nationwide.
At Pasadena Christian Preschool, outdoor learning has always been an important aspect of the curriculum.
As a leader and Demonstration Site for the Outdoor Classroom Project, many of our staff members have spoken
at conventions offered by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI). In addition, our school offers
tours of our beautiful Outdoor Classroom to other schools interested in pursuing the movement towards creating
a natural and engaging outdoor environment. We are so delighted to be at the forefront of this movement.
The PCS Outdoor Classroom features a sanctuary in which children explore, discover and learn - including a large
sand area, trikes and "balance bikes," sports equipment, a quiet reading and calm-down area, a dramatic play
(dress up) area that changes its theme monthly, sensory and science tables, and opportunities for construction,
music, art, and writing. It also has the normal play structure with lots of shade for active
play. Whether the children are playing in our large yard or under the covered enrichment patios, our children can
enjoy outdoor play all year long-rain or shine.
With our Demonstration Site status reconfirmed this year, we will continue educating other schools in an effort to
help bring more preschools and students outdoors. If you haven't seen it yet, please drop by for a tour. You will
no-doubt be very impressed. And please, "spread the word" about our great preschool. It now has the reputation
of being one of the best in the greater Pasadena/South Pasadena/La Canada area.
Thank You Linda Taylor-Bell
After 12 years, we say goodbye and thank you to our former
Preschool Director, Mrs. Linda Taylor-Bell. As the founding director,
Linda was responsible for designing the facilities of our school; guiding
the school through the licensing and accreditation process; and creating
an outstanding child-centered program that has served hundreds of
students.
Liam Selak draws his interpretation of Van Gogh's sunflowers.
Pasadena Christian Preschool has received numerous awards and grants
that reflect the quality and commitment of her leadership and vision for
the school. We will be forever grateful for her dedication and hard work
in "shaping hearts and minds for life."
PCScene
Summer 2012, Volume 24, Number 1
PCScene is published twice each year for
parents, alumni, former parents and friends of:
PASADENA CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
1515 North Los Robles Avenue
Pasadena, CA 91104
(626) 791-1214
Fax: (626) 791-1256
www.pasadenachristian.org
Editing Team.................................Larissa Althouse,
Antoinette Andrews, Lucia Rosling Shaw
Printing .............................California Coast Color
Layout..................................................narrative,llc
PCScene Summer 2012
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Plans for a New Science Center
Pasadena Christian School is happy to announce that plans
for a new campus Science Center are underway. The school’s
vision is to have a dedicated classroom in the Jr. High area,
which will become a center of activity where science discovery
can take place. Currently most science education takes place
in the individual grade classrooms. When the new Science
Center is complete, teachers from all grade levels will have
access to the facility, which will house all the necessary
equipment for students to explore all areas of science –
chemistry, biology, astronomy, earth science, etc. This project
is being led by Junior High Principal, Mr. Orr, who is reviewing
our PCS curriculum guide and the Common Core Standards
to ensure that our plans are aligned with national science
standards newly adopted by the state of California. Our
long-term goal is to have a specialized teacher for science as
we do for art, music, computer and Spanish. This teacher will
oversee the science program for the entire school and make
the Science Center the hub for some exciting science activity
and learning.
Celebrating our Graduates
Fourth Row: Ilario Della Catena, Raymond Alcan, Kendall Schmedes, Madalyn D'Alfonso, Noah Sisson, Andrew Parker,
Karina Sloan, Josh Johnson, Lauren Stiles, Austin Guevara, Lindsay Powell, Gillian Cox, Jason Equitz, Marco Rodriguez-Fleischmann,
and Ellen Rekedal. Third Row: Brent Hwang, Michael Fernandez, Micah Otazu, Priscilla Edwards, Nicholas Kim, Megan Espiritu,
Natalie Rozman, Jordan Riordan, Kylie Yates, Asa Scott, Grace Pickering, Emma Moore, Faedra Alcan, and Renisha Owen.
Second Row: Anica West, Nate Elffers, David Shintaku, Cameron Jones, Danielle Fradet, Kendra Fitzgerald, Cameron Smith,
Heather Turcios, Andi McCloud, Hailey McNall, Jeffrey Chin Wong, Elise Holmes, Andrew Lou, Vanessa Ocon, and Kelly Fradet.
First Row: Alexandra Janetzke, Colin Coppess, Serene Babikian, Luke Johnson, Mia Love, Nathaniel Santiago, Nadia Watts,
Dilan Wijesinghe, Lacie Fradet, Caleb Johnson, Andrea Chau, Ariana Hsiau, Sarah Patrick, James Fisher, and Jonathan Eshom.
Graduation Awards
Valedictorians
Danielle Fradet
Kelly Fradet
Salutatorians
Lacie Fradet
Lauren Stiles
Citizenship
Serene Babikian
Cameron Smith
Service Awards
Andi McCloud
Anica West
Andrea Chau
Lindsay Powell
Serene Babikian
Heather Turcios
Elise Holmes
Danielle Fradet
Kelly Fradet
Lacie Fradet
Asa Scott
Renisha Owen
Nathan Elffers
Andrew Parker
Dilan Wijesinghe
Scholar Athletes
Lauren Stiles
Nate Elffers
Outstanding Achievement in Math: Lauren Stailes
Outstanding Achievement in English: Natalie Rozman
Outstanding Achievement in Science: Dilan Wijesinghe
Outstanding Achievement in History: Andrew Lou
Outstanding Achievement in Bible: Vanessa Ocon
Outstanding Achievement in Art/Photography:
Kendra Fitzgerald – Art • Priscilla Edwards – Photo
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PCScene Summer 2012
Graduation is a bittersweet moment in the lives
of students. Many of our 2012 graduates have
been together since Preschool or Kindergarten
and have formed lifelong bonds. Their time at
Pasadena Christian has shaped them into fine
young men and women who now look forward
to new challenges and adventures in high school.
We ask that the Lord continue to bless and guide
them as they embark on this new season of life.
High schools our graduates will be attending:
Alverno High School
Crescenta Valley High School
Damien High School
Don Bosco Technical Institute
Flintridge Preparatory School
Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy
Glendale Adventist Academy
Immaculate Heart High School
La Salle High School
Loyola High School
Maranatha High School
Mayfield Senior School
St. Francis High School
The Webb Schools
Westridge School
PASADENA
CHRISTIAN
preschool
New Preschool
Director, Kristin Perez
Many families may know
Kristin Perez as the preschool
teacher that heads up the Outdoor Classroom. This summer,
she has taken over a new role as the Director of Pasadena
Christian Preschool. Since receiving her Bachelor of Science
in Early Childhood Education Pre-K – 3rd Grade, Kristin has
taught Kindergarten, First Grade and Preschool. In addition,
she held the position of Preschool Director at a full day
preschool program that served children 18 months – 5 years.
Outside of the U.S. (Kristin lived in Taiwan for 2 years), she
was a preschool teacher at Taipei American School, as well
as a 3rd and 4th grade Language & Literacy Instructor. In
August 2011, her family moved to California where she began
her work as the Outdoor Curriculum Specialist at Pasadena
Christian Preschool. After much success in that program,
Kristin was promoted.
Along with this new position, Kristin is currently pursuing a
Master’s of Education in Educational Leadership as well as
enjoying life with her husband, Manuel, and their boys
Christian (age 8) and William (age 6), both of whom attend PCS.
The first steps to creating the Science Center will take place
over the summer. Mr. Orr is working hard to outfit the room
with all the essentials to make it ready for the next school
year. First on the list is meeting the OSHA standards for
safety. This will include the purchase of an emergency body
shower/drench/eye wash, a laboratory exhaust fan (which can
re-circulate air in 5 minutes), fire extinguishers, fire blankets,
first aid kits, and a bench top acid cabinet (to securely store
chemicals or corrosives). Mr. Orr will also be purchasing
furniture that is more functional for experimentation, as well
as updating our inventory of scientific instruments. Each
student at Pasadena Christian will become familiar with the
scientific equipment that the national standard guidelines
outline for his or her grade level. To that end, there are already
plans to purchase 15 high-level microscopes, including one
that will have the ability to connect to a projector.
The Science Center purchases are being made from funds
raised during the PCS Auction and the Jog-a-thon. The
current budget on hand is $22,000, but as the list of purchases
grows, we will continue to need the support of our PCS family
to complete this important project. The purchase of 3-4
experiment tables will already cut significantly into the budget,
as they are about $3,200 each. We ask that current and former
PCS families and alumni consider making a contribution to
this worthy project and help us reach our goal of raising an
additional $10,000. If you would like to participate, please send
your donation payable to “PCS” indicating “Science Center”
in the memo. The students of Pasadena Christian thank you
for your help in creating a modern, cutting-edge area that will
enhance their science experience.
PCScene Summer 2012
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Golf Tournament and Auction Contributors
300 Pasadena
Adrea Scheidler Photography
Ajalat & Ajalat, LLP
Aki Sakanashi
Altadena Hardware
Applebee's Restaurant
Art & Suzy Burkhard
Auntie Anne's Pretzels
Beckham Grill
Bently & Suzzanne Au
Biyoshi - Steve Chapel
Brookside Golf Club
Burkard Nurseries
California Cactus Center
California Picture Framing
Casa del Rey - Ed Rey
Champion Cleaners
Children's Museum at La Habra
Club Champion Gymnastics
College Launch
Craig & Brenda Takata
Dave & Mary Sue Scheidler
David & Lucia Shaw
DC Golf - Doug Colliflower
Dish Restaurant
Domenico's Italian Kitchen
Dream Dinners
El Portal Restaurant
Ellen's Silk Screening
Embassy Suites - Monterey Bay Seaside
Evergreen Physical Therapy - Dave Johnson
Festival of Arts Laguna Beach
Fish King Seafood
Flintridge Bookstore & Coffeehouse
fresh & easy Neighborhood Market
Fritz Family
Golf n' Stuff
Green Street Restaurant
Greg & Julie Ajalat
Halper Fine Art
Hartigan Photography
Hollywood Baskets
In-N-Out
Jacob Maarse Florist
Jacobs Engineering
Joe & Jen Zambrano
John & Kathy Prosser
John Wells Golf Shops
Julienne
Jump 'n Jammin
K-9 Klipping ~ Jackie Jackson & Keri Carrillo
Kidspace Children's Museum
Krikorian Premiere Theatres
LA Philharmonic Association
La Canada Flintridge Country Club
La Salle High School
Laguna Art Museum
Larry & Mary Ann Bennett
Legoland
Little Kuts - Anna Maria Ortiz
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PCScene Summer 2012
Los Gringos Locos
Louise's Trattoria
Lunch Salon
Maggie Yebremian
Maranatha High School Booster Club
Marc and Leah Fleischmann
Maria's Italian Kitchen
Mark Monreal - Live Sax Player
Mary Falkingham Floral Designs
Matt Denny's Ale House Restaurant
Merle Norman Cosmetics - Montrose
Merrill Lynch - Alisa Chanpong-Amateau
Michelle Smatko
Mijares Mexican Restaurant
Montage Beverly Hills
My Sweet Cupcake
NBC Universal
Nails by Christine
Nancy Doyle
Narrative, LLC - Monica Bucknam
New Moon Restaurant - Collin Tom
Nuccio's Nursery
Oba Sushi Izakaya
On Location Creations
Original Tommy's
P.M. Jacoy Menswear
Paco's Mexican Restaurant
Panda Express - Maria McCloud
Pasadena Civic Ballet Center
Pasadena Tournament of Roses
Patricia Williams
Payke Gymnastics Academy
Pie 'N Burger
Pilates-4-Pain Management - Jennifer Kutch
Planes of Fame Air Museum
Play It Again Sports
Playworks - toys for serious play
Rancho Cucamonga Quakes
Rich & Kim Chinen
Richard Nixon Foundation
Robert A. Sue, DDS
Roclord Studio Photography
Rose Bowl Aquatics Center
Rose Story Farm
Rubio's Fresh Mexican Grill
San Diego Zoo Global
San Marino Toy and Book Shoppe, Inc.
Santa Anita Park
Scott & Cathy Green
Sean & Mindy Dwyer
Shannon & Lisa Kim
Sharp Seating Company
Spartan Allstars Sports Day Camp
SpeedZone
Style by Lily
Thach Family
The Americana at Brand
The Apple Cart
The Comedy & Magic Club
The Huntington - Library,Art Collections &
Botanical Gardens
The Ice House
The Museum of Tolerance
The Only Place In Town
The Pasadena Playhouse
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum
The Summer Art Academy's Cooking Camp
Two Dragons Martial Arts
UCLA Dept. of Intercollegiate Athletics
ULTRAZONE Laser Tag
Vernon Lee Gymnastics
Vic's Cleaners
Von's - La Canada
West Coast Ticket Service
Wonderland Custom Cakes
Your Closets Concierge - Anne Arlie
PCS Faculty & Staff
Mrs. Jackie Bailey, Elementary Principal
Mrs. Christiana Bertolucci, 6th grade
Mrs. Cindie Ekstrand, Jr. High
Coach Diane Evans
Ms. Heidi Hart,Art
Mrs. Sarah Holmstrom, 6th grade
Mrs. Diane James, Kgt Teaching Asst.
Mrs.Vikki Mele, Emerging Needs Coordinator
Mr. Ken Orr, Jr Hi Principal
Coach Adrian Pirozko
PCS Student Artists
Kailie Aberin
Emma Brown
Moxie Burkhard
Ethan Coe-Renner
Junia Coe-Renner
Victoria Conlon
Isabella Coulter
Sophie Daniels
Marshall Dodds
Alexander Douglas
Ashley Fowler
Sarah Fritz
Noah Geihm
Gabriella Gonzales
Taylor Hugens
Brittney Hwang
Camilla Li
Celeste Masci
Jolene Murphy
Elle Nawrocki
Alexis Pappachan
Charlotte Pearson
Shanti Rozario
Nicholas St.Peter
Abby Scheidler
Francis Shaw
Caroline Smatko
Hailey Soh
Keala Sunada
Charlotte Taormina
Emiko Tong
Thank You to our 65th Anniversary
Celebration Sponsors!
At the 23rd Annual PCS Golf Tournament
and Dinner Auction, attendees celebrated the
school’s 65th Anniversary. Thanks to the
generous contributions of our benefactors,
sponsors and contributors, it was not only a
successful fundraiser, but also an exciting event
filled with a spirit of gratitude for those who have
contributed to the history of Pasadena Christian
School since 1946. Funds raised will help equip
our new Science Center, as well as support our
operating budget. We are so grateful to our
sponsors and the Golf & Auction Committees!
Benefactors
Gilmour Insurance
John & Kathy Prosser
Dave & Mary Sue Scheidler
CityWorks Management, LLC
Steve & Stephanie Lazarian
ESSCO ~ Electric Service & Supply Co.
www.esscoelectric.com
Lunch Sponsor
Bolton & Company
Ryan Fridborg, MAOD, SPHR
www.boltonco.com
Bradford Direct
www.bradforddirect.com
Regal Press
www.regalpress.com
Tee Sponsors Ajalat & Ajalat, LLP
Gregory M. Ajalat, Esq.
www.Ajalatlaw.com
Arroyo Hardwoods
Michael Hugens
www.arroyohardwoods.com
The Baker Nelson Family
Canada FormPrint, Inc.
Bruce Agnew
www.formprint.com
Congratulations Class of 2012
Mark & Diane Evans
Mark Evans Construction (626) 398-5561
Event Supporters
Barb & Eric Short
J.P Amateau & Alisa Chanpong-Amateau
Jameson Brown Coffee Roasters
www.jamesonbrown.com
Vicenti, Lloyd & Stutzman LLP
Derrick DeBroyne
www.vlsllp.com
A special thank you to all the Room Parents
who were responsible for the classroom
gifts and the parents who donated toward
the class baskets.
ALUMNI NEWS
JP (’99) and Rebecca (’99) Musgrove
welcomed their first child Julia Grace
who was born April 23, 2012. At birth,
Julia was 6 lbs. 6 oz. and 19 ½ inches.
She is such a joy and blessing in their
lives. Currently living in the Bay Area,
JP is a managed portfolios associate at
Litman Gregory, a local asset management
firm. He also keeps busy as a member of the
board of directors at Saint Mary’s College as
well as serving in various roles at their church. Rebecca loves being at
home with Julia, but plans to resume her career as a part-time NICU
nurse. They spend much of their free time traveling to visit family
throughout the U.S.
Katelyn Bollenbacher (’03) is the Program
Manager for Best Buddies California in the
San Francisco Bay Area. Best Buddies is
a 501(c)3 Non Profit Organization that provides
friends and jobs for people with Intellectual
and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). On
June 13, 2012 she visited the California State
Capital to take part in legislation to help
restore dignity to the disabled. Katelyn and
Best Buddies program participant, John
Hammond, testified for Assembly Bill 2730 nicknamed the Shriver
R-word Act. This bill replaces the term “mentally retarded” with
“intellectual disability” in California State Law references. As an
organization, Best Buddies California sponsored the bill because
they have seen firsthand how the use of the R word can affect people’s
perceptions for individuals with IDD. The word, which was once the
appropriate term, has over time evolved into something very hurtful,
used to label something or someone dumb, or unpleasing. Isn’t it
exciting to hear how our alumni are making a difference in the world!
Congratulations 2012 Eagle Scouts
from Troop 21!
Back row: Chandler Nahigian (’08),
Jared Equitz (’08), Markus Liepins(’08),
Blake Simon (’08), and Jason Bunn (’07).
Front row: Nicholas Dechant (’08) and
Thomas Dechant (’08).
On Sunday, January 29, 2012, these
Pasadena Christian alumni, who all
attended PCS from Kindergarten thru 8th grade, received the highest
achievement in scouting - the Eagle Scout rank. Each Scout spent many
hours working on various merit badges and rank advancements throughout
the years. Their journeys culminated in individual Eagle Projects which took
place in various areas of the community - Angeles Chileo Campground,
Kidspace Museum, Mach1 Horse Therapy Ranch, Descanso Gardens,
Arlington Garden in Pasadena and the Pasadena Museum of History. We
look forward to the plans that God has for these wonderful young men!
Keeping In Touch!
Pasadena Christian School is thankful for each student who God has
placed in our care. We are blessed as we watch them progress from
Preschool, to Elementary and to Jr. High. We are doubly blessed as
we hear about their many accomplishments as they go through each
season of life. If you are a PCS graduate, please take time to update us.
We would love to hear from you! [email protected]
PCScene Summer 2012
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Making Joyful Music!
While the arts, and particularly music, are being continually cut in state schools and even nearby private/independent
schools, we are proud to have a new PCS Instrumental Program. It has truly flourished this year under the direction
of Dr. Gene Chung, who joined our teaching staff last September. He brought with him a wealth of experience, including
most recently, a Doctor of Musical Arts from Claremont Graduate University in Claremont, CA and a Master of Theology.
He also currently serves as Founder/Music Director of the Wesley Youth Orchestra in Los Angeles, Music Minister of the
Los Angeles Dong San Methodist Church, and volunteer Music Director/Education Director of Love-in-Music, LA. His
background includes teaching at an elementary school, serving as a pastor, and serving as Music Director for different
churches. Finally, and perhaps most important of all, is that he is a parent of our own third grader Isaac Chung. He
knows our school culture well, and can add much to making our music program one of the best in the San Gabriel Valley.
Dr. Chung's motto is based on Psalm 150, "Praise the Lord with musical instruments." He is indeed, helping our students
lay the foundation for a lifetime of just that!
The Instrumental Music Program that he brought to PCS during the school day includes:
·
Beginning & Intermediate Violin
·
Beginning & Intermediate Cello
·
Beginning & Intermediate Woodwinds & Brass
·
Advanced Violin & Cello
·
Advanced Woodwinds & Brass
Ethan Patrick, Michael Humphrey, Micah Coleman, and Connor Schimley.
Presenting…The Music Man!
Pasadena Christian School
Performing Arts Depa rtment
present s, Meredith Willson ’s
The Pasadena Christian Spring Musical is an annual tradition. This year, Music
Director, Barbara Allen, led the students as they presented “The Music Man”.
The 5th and 6th grade supplied the cast, with Ethan Patrick in the role of the soon
to be reformed swindler Professor Harold Hill and Emily Baker-Nelson in the role
of Marian Paroo, the town librarian and piano teacher who believes in him and helps
him realize he really isn’t just out for himself. The cast was supported by the Joyful
Sounds choral group, which is made up of 3rd and 4th grade students. We are
blessed to have such a great group of willing and talented students who work hard
to present the best. The school was also blessed to receive a generous donation
from Wells Fargo, which enabled us to print professional quality programs.
Pasadena Christian is happy to give students the opportunity to experience the
rigors of putting on a theatrical production as well as expand their view of the arts.
We look forward to continuing this long-standing tradition next year.
In addition to the in-school program, Dr. Chung offers a before-school opportunity for small group instruction
(2-3 students) on violin; as well as an after school program for private instruction - given by professional musicians
on violin, cello, flute, clarinet and trumpet. He also developed a PCS Summer Music Academy, which includes a
30-minute small group instruction, private instruction, and an 8-week summer music theory course on DVD for home
study. He has truly been busy developing a variety of avenues in which our children can learn music and flourish.
The students have responded well to Dr. Chung’s teaching style and worked hard this past year. Their efforts
culminated in a special evening that showcased their musical talents at the Spring Concert, featuring the PCS
Chamber Orchestra, Beginning and Intermediate Band, and Beginning and Intermediate Violins. Friends and family
were excited by the progress the students made in just one year, and were so very proud of their performances.
It also enticed many other potential students to explore the program in September.
We are truly blessed to have someone so qualified in Music Ministry come to our campus. We hope that many
(if not all) of our students will utilize his wonderful expertise and talents. We are certain that the investment of
time in music instruction will produce life-long benefit to many of our students.
Instrumental Concert “Pasadena Christian’s
Instrumental Music Director Dr. Gene Chung
and Ethan Coe-Renner.”
Instrumental Concert Abigail Kim
and Madison Freeman.
Sharon Sakai Thankful for the BYH Family
After 14 years as Director of the Big Yellow House, Sharon Sakai is beginning a new chapter in her life. It is difficult for
her to say goodbye, but health challenges and her new role as “Grandma” made it clear that this is part of God’s plan.
Jennifer Treptow, Elizabeth Cass, Benjamin Samuels,
and Emily Baker-Nelson.
Joey Rivera, Jalynn Irwin, and Alison Fujimoto.
Thank You Wells Fargo!
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PCScene Summer 2012
In 2004, doctors discovered that Sharon had a meningioma (benign brain tumor). Surgery was not an option but through
stereotactic radiation, chemotherapy, and God’s grace, Sharon has been surprising the doctors with milder than expected
effects. This past year, the tumor did a little growing; chemotherapy continues; MRIs have shown no change; and Sharon
wants everyone to know that she is doing fine and God continues to be in control. Since leaving BYH in April, Sharon
has been spending time with her family, including her first grandchild Leonardo and will be leaving on her very first cruise
to Alaska with her husband, Stan.
“Friendships of parents, students and staff have meant a lot to me,” says Sharon. “It has been an honor and a blessing
to be able to get to know and observe many of our students as they have grown and matured from Kindergarten through
8th Grade. I am thankful that I was able to be part of this process. Thank you for your prayers. Blessings to you all.”
PCScene Summer 2012
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Pasadena Christian 2012 – 2013 Teacher Wish List
Thank you to our Annual Fund
Campaign Parent Donors!
At the beginning of each school year, we often receive inquiries from parents who want to purchase items for their child’s
classroom. In response, we have compiled the following wish list for the 2012-13 school year.
This year our Parent Giving to the Annual Fund more
than doubled. What a great accomplishment for PCS.
On behalf of the students who directly benefit from your
generous gifts, we thank you for your support. Please
know and trust that each gift will make a real impact on
the type of education we can provide our students, and
we are humbled by your spirit of giving.
To donate toward one of these items, please send in your check payable to “PCS” along with a note indicating which
classroom and item you are donating toward. In the event that the item is already purchased, we will apply the funds to
another item for the specified classroom or department. If you would like to personally purchase an item, please contact
our Development Office at (626)773-7910 for details.
On behalf of our faculty, staff and students, we would like to thank you all for your thoughtfulness and giving spirit.
Mrs. Chelsea Northrop – Preschool Class 1
Elmo MO-1 Document Camera
& In Focus 112 Projector Combo
$937
iPod Classic 160 Gb
$312
Acrylic Specimens Collection of 12
$117
Lego Wheel Set
$48
Lego Community Mini-Figures Set
$60
Magformers Designer Set (various)
$40-$150
Magna-Tiles Clear Colors 100 pcs.
$154 ea.
Preschool Class 2
Wireless Classroom Headphones Set
CD & Cassette Player/Recorder
Easi-Speak Recording Microphone
$224
$125
$88
Mr.Tim Gray– Preschool Class 3
Animals Up Close Puzzle Set
Careers Puzzle Set Rainbow Parachute
Basic Bulk Bricks Lego
Lego Doors,Windows & Roof Set
Lego Community Mini-Figures Set
Large Lego Base Plates
$125
$150
$69
$63
$47
$60
$37
Preschool Class 4
Hamilton AM/FM, DC and MP3 Player
$200
Mrs. Sheri Deming-Elliott – Preschool Class 5
Bird in Hand Mini Sand and Water Table
$300
Standing Mirror
$113
Giant Building Bricks
$48
Mrs. Gwendolyn Kiessling – Preschool
Outdoor Classroom
Soft Baseball Bats
2 Supersticker Value Packs
$36ea
4 Picture Sticker Packs
$15ea
AM/FM CD Player & MP3
$200
2 Converto Hand-Propelled Trikes
$500ea
Mrs. Parker – KA
X-Acto Model 41 Electric Sharpener
Double Pocket Chart Stand
School Smart Folding File Cart w/Caddy
3 - Clip-On Bookends
Mrs. French – KB
Numbers & Counting Interactive CD-ROM
Buckle, Lace and Tie Dressing Frame
Log Builders Starter Set
Phonemic Awareness Plinko Game
Linking Number Monkeys
6’ Rainbow Parachute
Tegu Magnetic Blocks Orig. Set 52 pcs.
10
PCScene Summer 2012
$213
$85
$38
$23 ea.
$25
$44
$37
$62
$37
$27
$156
Mrs. Ryor - 1A
Building Fluency Card Bank
30 - Extra Book Bins
Legos
3-D Magnet Builders Class Set
5 Minute Sand Timer
iPad 2 or iPad 3
$63
$5 ea.
$varies
$100
$19
$500+
Mrs.Tcharkhoutian – 1B
Building Fluency Card Bank
30 - Extra Book Bins
Legos
3-D Magnet Builders Class Set
5 Minute Sand Timer
iPad 2 or iPad 3
$63
$5 ea.
$varies
$100
$19
$500+
Mrs. Gallego – 2B
Treasury of Books Grades 2 to 3
Best Sellers Grade 2
Accelerated Reader II Grade 2
Accelerated Reader Grade 2 Accelerated Reader Grade 3 Reading Comprehension Games Library
Mastering Math Games Library
$220
$62
$208
$206
$205
$174
$119
Mrs.Trujillo – 3rd Grade
3 sets - Write and Wipe Lapboards
3 sets -Write and Wipe Lapboard Erasers
Exacto School Pro Electric Pencil Sharpener
Favorite Action Games Set
Reading Comprehension Games Library
2 - Beanbag Seats (1 Green, 1 Blue)
6 - Tabletop Paper Centers
$35 ea.
$18 ea.
$68
$119
$174
$75 ea.
$32 ea.
Mrs. Bricker – 4B
Double-pedestal Desk
Intermediate Math Game Kit
Pairs in Pears Game
Math Diction Game
Daily Math Stretches
Creative Smart Board Lessons
Primary Sources/Interactive White Board
50 Skill Building Pyramid Puzzles
SpellingCity.com Premium Membership
$275
$133
$22
$32
$32
$19
$38
$15
$50
Mrs.Williams – 5A
The Photographic Card Deck
$21
of Elements
Theodore Gray’s ElementsVaultTreasures $29
of the PeriodicTable w/RemovableArchival
Documents and Real Elements Sample
2 - Math Dice Tub
$36 ea.
NOVA PBS DVDThe Elements –A
$50
Visual Exploration and Hunting the Elements
DVD and Book
SpellingCity.com Premium Membership $50
Mrs. Holmstrom – 6A
Rainy Day Games
$varies
SpellingCity.com Premium $93
Membership
5-Drawer Desktop
$19
Organizer/clear-turquoise
5 Drawer Desktop $19
Organizer/clear-lime
Ms. Johnson – Junior High
Insignia Boom-box w/Apple $82
iPod Doc/Black
Samsonite Folding Luggage $38
Cart/Black
Cannon Powershot A3400, $163
16.0 Mega Pixal
Digital Camera Bundle/Red
Dr. Gene Chung –
Instrumental Music
Yamaha Arius YDP141
88-Key Digital Piano
w/Bench
iMac Computer
Piano Work Desk
$1,440
$1,500
$312
The PCS Annual Fund helps us to maintain the quality
of our programs and continue expanding the excellence
of our school. While tuition dollars do the major work
of maintaining our programs, without Annual Fund
donations we cannot grow. From the creation of the
new Science Center, to providing new instruments for
our music program; and from adding new computer
software and hardware to our classrooms, to updating
our play structures - we appreciate your support and
we hope to double giving again next year.
Anonymous Donors
Wil & Suzie Allen
Jon Andersen & Martha Williamson
Bently & Suzzanne Au
Gary & Annie Barseghian
Art & Suzy Burkhard
Ted Chi & Cindy Kang
Richard & Michelle Chino
Jinshik & Choonok Chung
Scott & Shawn Crawshaw
Scott & Debbie Daniels
Carey Doss & Laura Romero-Doss
David & Adriana Eliassen
Sadao & Jennifer Endo
Michael & Danthanh Fields
Michael & Julie Gallagher
Robert & Leslie Glass
Philip & Genevieve Gonsal
Frank Gonzalez & Pamela Madrid
Mario & Elizabeth Haug
Michael & Pam Hayashida
Ralph & Veronica Humphrey
Kenneth & Valerie Kitahara
David Knott & Anna Kalinka-Knott
Joey & Shari Kragelund
Mike Lai & Sonia Sit
Carl Li & Karen Yang
Giancarlo Licata & Sonja Kretchmer Licata
Robert & Vera Martirossian
Marie Masakayan
Eve & Randy Mathews
Michael Neely & Lisa Blanc
Christopher & Jean Overton
Manuel & Kristin Perez
Richard & Mary Polanco
Rick & Vicki Rekedal
Eddie & Rida Rivera
Jason & Heather Robie
Stanley Rozario & Connie Ung
Marc & Sandi Rozman
David & Paige Salardino
Rick & Tresha San-Martin
Mark & Julie Scoon
Steve & Christine Selak
Lucia & David Shaw
Michael & Janice Shintaku
Brett & Maria Shwery
Andrew & Debbie Sierra
Adam & Karen Sisson
Dustin & Krista Smith
Glen & Lori Smith
John & Joanna Soh
Phil & Denise Williams
Stephanie & Tony Yates
Joe & Jen Zambrano
Staff/Faculty News
Birth Announcements:
The past school year was full of excitement and anticipation as we
showered four of our faculty members with blessings for their first babies.
Baby: Aidan Curtis
Parents: Warren & Beth Curtis (Jr. High
Teacher & PCS Alum '97)
Birthdate: February 13,2012
Weight: 9lbs. 3 oz.
Length: 22 inches
Baby: Ethan Scott Marshall
Parents: Scott and Denise Marshall
(4th Grade Teacher)
Birthdate: March 13, 2012 at 1:43 a.m.
Weight: 7 lbs. 10 oz.
Length: 19 inches
Baby: Charlie Patrick Holmstrom
Parents: Eric & Sarah Holmstrom
(6th Grade Teacher)
Birthdate: July 16, 2012 at 8:11 a.m.
Weight: 8 lbs. 3 oz.
Length: 21 inches
4th – 8th Grade Spanish Teacher,
Alma Purcell and husband Mitchell had
twin boys born on May 29. Baby #1,
Avram (In photo), weighed 3 pounds and
baby #2 Alexander weighed 1 lb. 11 oz.
at birth. Mom and Dad are spending oneon-onetime with Avram at home, while
Alexander is in the NICU. Parents are
confident that God will finish the work he started in the boys. They particularly ask for prayer for Alexander’s lung development.
New Director of Big Yellow House, Suzie Allen
We are pleased to announce that Mrs. Suzie Allen will be serving as
our new Director of Day Care, endearingly known as “Big Yellow House”
or “BYH”. Having been employed at PCS for 8 years, Mrs. Allen has
worked in the Front Office and in the Development Department. Most
recently, she served as Principals’ Assistant for the Elementary and
Jr. High Principals. Her assistance in administration will be missed,
but her valuable skills will be carried over into her new position as
Director of Day Care. While the programs and services of BYH have
always been strong, it is her vision to take them to the next level
with regard to staff service and quality care for our before and after
school program. Mrs. Allen brings with her a Business Degree from
Oregon State University. Her family consists of Wil, her husband of
25 years (a rocket scientist for JPL), and their two children Haley
(6th grade) and Sam (8th grade) who both started at PCS when they
were in preschool.
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IN THIS ISSUE
Students Reaching out to the World............................1
2012 Graduating Class............................................4 & 5
New Preschool Director................................................5
Alumni News.................................................................7
New Instrumental Program.......................................... 9
New Director Of Big Yellow House.............................11
PCS Plans for New Science Center
Coming Fall of 2012, details on page 5...