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Senior Spotlight: Michael Lueders Jr., Nehemiah Chen, and Cristian Hodges

Senior Spotlight: Michael Lueders Jr., Nehemiah Chen, and Cristian Hodges

We are pleased to introduce three more incredible members of the WCS 2025 senior class: Michael Lueders Jr., Nehemiah Chen, and Cristian Hodges.

Meet Michael  Lueders Jr.

Favorite Bible Verse: Ephesians 6:11

Michael chose growth, care, and development when asked to describe his WCS experience in three words. His favorite subject is Honors Pre-Calculus because it is challenging, and Ms. Leeson’s class was instrumental in Michael discovering what he wants to do with his life.

During his time at WCS, Michael’s faith grew stronger as he learned that God would always be there for him. He advises younger students who want to grow their faith to “pay attention in chapel and Bible class.

Michael’s favorite WCS memories include his freshman retreat and earning a four on the AP Com Science exam. He’s excited about future opportunities and plans to work in game programming after college. Michael looks forward to staying connected with the WCS community through his younger brother, who plans to attend.

 

Introducing Nehemiah Chen

Favorite Bible Verse: John 1:1

Nehemiah became a WCS Wildcat in the sixth grade. His favorite subject is Algebra 2 because he had a great teacher, Mr. Echols, who made math class easier. He’s especially proud of earning a 105 on one of Mr. Echols’s tests.

During his time at WCS, Nehemiah was involved in Vex and played on the baseball team. He credits both experiences for making him a better person. His happiest memories with friends include Top Golf, playing baseball, and a funny moment stacking cups at lunch.

After graduation, Nehemiah plans to attend college. His advice to younger students is to “read your Bible.

 

Meet Cristian Hodges

Favorite Bible Verse: 1 Cor 9:26-27

Christian joined the WCS community in his fifth-grade year. He enjoyed playing football and running track, where he learned always to give 100%, even when you knew you’re not doing well. Coach O. is his favorite teacher because he’s been instrumental in Cristian’s life since he first came to WCS.

During his time here, Cristian began to see God differently as he grew in his faith. His advice to younger students is to “pay attention to other people who know more.”

His favorite subject is engineering, and he is proud of himself for earning all As and Bs last year. Cristian hopes to return to WCS for Wildcat games and leaves behind a legacy that includes the 200m and 400m record and the Wildcat dash. Cristian plans to major in engineering in college.

Westbury Worships Through the Arts

Westbury Worships Through the Arts

Worship is an integral part of the culture at WCS. We’re excited to share how our students worship God at school for the next few weeks, beginning with creativity. WCS recognizes creativity as a powerful means of glorifying God. Our students use visual arts to praise and worship God through painting and creating works that embody faith, hope, and love. Every brushstroke and design serves as a testament to the beauty of God’s creation.

WCS art teacher Ms. Keese and one of our talented AP art students, Alexis, recently shared their unique experiences of using their gifts and talents to worship God.

A Discussion with Ms. Keese

Q. How do you see art as a way to worship God?

A. Art allows me to worship God in everything. It’s not just a class credit needed to graduate. Art is the world we live in. God is the ultimate creator. All we need to do is look around. He gives us lots of subjects, and what He made is beautiful.

Q. What does it look like when faith and creativity come together in your classroom?

A. I teach my students not to say, “I can’t.” At the beginning of the school year, students often ask how I can expect them to be able to draw something. However, as the year progresses, we work on techniques, and they begin to see they can do them. Their faith grows as they see that they truly can believe in themselves and learn to draw.

Q. Can you share a time when a student created something that reflected their faith?

A. We create Christmas cards for our school to send each year. For some students, this is the first time they thoroughly examine the story of Baby Jesus and what Christmas is all about. Our Christmas cards reflect our faith and values at WCS, whether it’s the story of Baby Jesus or the characteristics by which we strive to live in unity, peace, and harmony with one another.

Q. Have you seen students grow spiritually through their artwork?

A. I’ve seen students grow spiritually through their artwork and because they’re in a loving Christian community here. When we show God’s love, we nurture their faith.

Q. What do you say to a student who loves God but doesn’t think they are creative?

A. If you think you aren’t creative, I don’t want you to worry. Every student can learn techniques and how to draw. The Bible tells us that we can do more than we think or imagine through Him. You can ask God for anything, and little by little, step by step, you’ll gain confidence in yourself.

 

Using Gifts to Draw Closer to God: An Interview with Alexis

Q. How does your faith show up in your artwork?

A. My faith is fairly extensive in my art, even though I’m not strictly creating Christian or biblical scenes. Still, everything I do is very much based in nature, the people God has created, and the overall world. I believe He has given us a desire to interact and create through our own artwork.

Q. Do you ever feel like you’re worshipping while you’re creating?

A. I would say that art and exercising the talents God has given me is a form of worship. It’s a unique experience of peace and fulfillment, knowing that I’m doing something God gave me the unique ability to do and, therefore, wants me to do. It’s a very pleasant experience.

 Q. How has being at WCS helped you use art more deeply?

A. At a smaller school, I get very personalized attention with my artwork, which has been a major help. Here, you get to be seen as an individual and respected for whatever your own desires and creative inclinations may be. I feel like I’ve been given specific chances to enter contests and participate in classes that I might not otherwise have been able to experience.

Q. What would you say to another student who wants to use their creativity for God, but doesn’t know where to start?

A. We can serve God by acknowledging what he has given us and finding a way to use it to glorify Him and share His love with other people. If you’re good at art or passionate about it, find what interests you and work on making yourself a better artist. You’ll be amazed by how much closer it draws you to God.

Senior Spotlight: Michael Lueders Jr., Nehemiah Chen, and Cristian Hodges

Senior Spotlight: HR Alexander Emanuel, Jack Haney, and Cameron Waters

It is our pleasure to introduce three more incredible members of the WCS 2025 senior class: HR Alexander Emanuel, Jack Haney, and Cameron Waters.

Meet HR Alexander Emanuel

Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 4:13

This is HR’s first year at WCS, and he is grateful to Coach Teykl for bringing him here. His favorite part of the day is baseball practice, but he also finds psychology class interesting. His proudest academic moment was earning an A on an AP World History test.

HR loves playing baseball and aims to establish a strong foundation for an excellent program for future Warriors. After graduation, HR intends to continue his academic and athletic journey at Hendrix College. He plans to keep in touch with the WCS community and eventually help develop a state-of-the-art baseball complex for the school.

 

Introducing Jack Haney

Favorite Bible Verse: John 3:16

Johnathon joined the WCS community in his sixth-grade year. He knew WCS was the right school for him because he felt he could talk to anyone. Biology is Johnathon’s favorite subject, and he was especially proud to earn a 3.7 GPA last semester.

Coach Hawley made the Bible easier for Johnathon to understand by incorporating it into our lives through similar activities involving scripture. His freshman football retreat significantly impacted Johnathon’s faith, which has continued to grow stronger every year.

Johnathon has been a member of the football, baseball, basketball, and track teams at WCS, and discovered a unique talent for chess. He hopes to inspire younger students to have fun in school and plans to visit his alma mater now and then.

After graduation, Johnathon plans to study biology at UH and become either a veterinarian or marine biologist.

 

Meet Cameron Waters

Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 4:13

When asked to describe his experience at WCS in three words, Cameron chose, “It was fun.” Cameron first came to WCS as a sophomore and remembers being welcomed immediately by new friends.

Cameron’s favorite subject is physics because he enjoys the projects. He participated in many sports, including cross country, soccer, basketball, and baseball, and credits them with helping him develop leadership skills. Coach Teykl significantly impacted Cameron’s life by assisting him with baseball, academics, and character development.

Among Cameron’s favorite WCS memories are top golf and lunch conversations with friends. He hopes people will remember him as someone who was respectful and kind to teachers and students. His advice to younger students is that life is a journey, not a sprint, and to remember that God is with you no matter what.

After graduation, Cameron plans to attend college and serve in the military.

A Honey of a Project: A Spotlight on WCS Freshman, Katelyn Bruce

A Honey of a Project: A Spotlight on WCS Freshman, Katelyn Bruce

At WCS, we take immense pride in our students’ initiatives to make a difference in the world. Katelyn Bruce, a WCS freshman and Girl Scout, undertook one such remarkable project. Working through the Girl Scout Silver Award Project, Katelyn partnered with a fellow Cadette to design and build a bee hotel to support and protect solitary bees.

These crucial pollinators are equally—if not more—effective than honeybees. Katelyn learned that a single solitary bee can pollinate as many as 100 honeybees, making them essential to the health of our ecosystems. However, these bees do not live in hives, and their declining population is a growing concern. Recognizing this, Katelyn and her project partner Camila set out to create a safe habitat to help these important pollinators thrive.

With support from the Bellaire City Council and guidance from Joyce Gigout, a respected member of the Bellaire Environmental Sustainability Board and a bee expert, the girls designed and built a specialized structure entirely made from natural materials. The “bee hotel” attracts solitary bees and provides them shelter and nesting space among the flowers in Mulberry Park. In addition, the project involved creating coloring pages and an informational webpage about solitary bees.

The eco-friendly initiative also offered Katelyn valuable learning experiences. Throughout the project, she honed essential life skills, such as communication, collaboration, and problem-solving. By working with local officials and environmental experts, she gained practical experience in advocacy and sustainability, which prepared her to be a responsible and proactive leader.

Katelyn’s project was recently featured in an online article by The Buzz Magazines. Her work is a powerful reminder that young people can make a meaningful impact. Congratulations on earning the Girl Scouts’ highest honor for Cadettes, Katelyn—your WCS community is proud of you!

Senior Spotlight: Michael Lueders Jr., Nehemiah Chen, and Cristian Hodges

Senior Spotlight: Amber Marshall, Harmony James, and Hayden Kincaid

It is our pleasure to introduce three more incredible members of the WCS 2025 senior class: Amber Marshall, Harmony James, and Hayden Kincaid

Meet Amber Marshall

This is Amber’s first year at WCS, and she has felt welcomed since the very first day of school. She describes her experience at WCS as “fun, eventful, and chill.” Attending WCS has helped Amber grow in her faith and draw closer to God. Senior Bible is her favorite subject because it includes enjoyable projects that encourage students to reflect on specific moments in their lives.

Amber participates in cheer, basketball, and track and looks forward to playing these sports with her friends after school. These friends helped her learn the ropes as a new WCS student and have been her biggest supporters. Amber’s favorite memories include homecoming week and senior sunrise, and her proudest moment was earning all A’s for the first quarter.

After graduation, Amber plans to attend college and major in graphic design. She wants to stay connected with the WCS community and looks forward to returning to cheer for the Wildcats from the stands.

Introducing Harmony James

Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 4:13

 Harmony joined WCS in fourth grade. Throughout her time here, she has participated in volleyball, basketball, softball, soccer, and cheerleading. She attributes these sports to teaching her discipline and how to love others, even when it’s challenging.

Physics is Harmony’s favorite subject because it offers a hands-on curriculum that makes it easier to learn. Her favorite teacher is Coach Williams because he always offers good advice when she discusses her problems with him. A strong student, Harmony’s proudest moment was when she was inducted into the National Honor Society.

Harmony’s advice to younger students is that when things are going well for you, it doesn’t mean you should stop reading your Bible or praying to God; rather, you have to pour into Him even more. After graduation, Harmony plans to attend Baylor University, major in biology, and become a radiologist.

Meet Hayden Kincaid

Favorite Bible Verse: 2 Corinthians 4:16

Hayden Kincaid has attended WCS since the first grade. He’s been involved in Interact, HOSA, the ASL Club, the Garden Club, the Theater Crew, Golf, and Library Aide. These extracurriculars shaped his school experience by highlighting the importance of getting involved in your community and how fulfilling that experience can be.

From his time as a student in her fourth-grade class to serving as her library aide this year, Mrs. Robertson has had a significant impact on Hayden. “Her patience and welcoming attitude have inspired me and my friends to volunteer at the library and learn about all the work that goes on behind the scenes to create a spectacular library for our students!”

Hayden’s favorite class is AP Government, and his proudest moment was receiving the AP Scholar with Distinction award, as it demonstrated that hard work really pays off.

During his time at WCS, Hayden’s faith in God has grown through the inspiring examples set by his friends and their encouraging words and actions. His advice to younger students is to

give time every day to God, even if it’s just five minutes of your day.

After spending the summer traveling, Hayden plans to study psychology and pursue a career as a clinical psychologist or therapist. He will stay connected through his younger sister and looks forward to witnessing her growth at WCS.

 

 

 

Westbury Christian School Celebrates 50 Years of Excellence

Westbury Christian School Celebrates 50 Years of Excellence

Westbury Christian School (WCS) recently marked a momentous milestone. The school celebrated 50 years of faith-based education with special events that united alumni, faculty, students, and supporters. The three-day celebration honored the school’s legacy and showcased the enduring spirit of the WCS community.

A Night of Reconnection and Competition
The festivities kicked off on Friday night with a homecoming event that welcomed many alumni, including members of the first graduating class of 1984. The school gym buzzed with excitement as former students reconnected and cheered on the Wildcats in two thrilling basketball games. The energy in the stands was electric, and our Boys and Girls Varsity teams triumphed over St. Thomas Episcopal.

A vibrant photo booth provided guests with sentimental keepsakes to cherish their time with valued classmates and lifelong friends. Attendees were also encouraged to explore the newly curated display case near the boys’ locker rooms, which highlights student activities throughout the school’s history.

A Glamorous Anniversary Gala
Saturday night’s sold-out anniversary gala was yet another highlight of the weekend, attracting over 200 attendees for an evening filled with celebration and fundraising. Alumni, board members, and donors from various decades gathered to reflect on the school’s rich history and bright future. Honorary guests and former WCS Heads of School Robert McCloy, Greg Glenn, and Michael White took part in a cake-cutting ceremony.

The WCS jazz band created an inviting atmosphere as guests mingled and explored the student art exhibit. Current WCS student Alex Grundy and alumna Leah Holder Green spoke at the event, and Michael Rogerson’s lively magic show entertained the crowd.    

A Fitting Conclusion in Worship
The weekend concluded with a heartfelt worship service at Westbury Church of Christ on Sunday morning. Steve Hawley and Kenneth Okwuonu led the prayer and reflection session, during which attendees expressed gratitude for the school’s past and sought blessings for its future.

A Community United in Faith and Education
The anniversary celebration was a true testament to the dedication and passion of the WCS community. It showcased the school’s impact over the past five decades and reaffirmed its commitment to faith-driven education. As the school looks toward the future, it remains steadfast in its mission to glorify God through academic excellence and Christian values.

WCS expresses heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to this remarkable milestone and looks forward with excitement to what God has in store for the school and its community in the years to come.

Senior Spotlight: Michael Lueders Jr., Nehemiah Chen, and Cristian Hodges

Senior Spotlight: Jessie (Jiaxin) Xie, Ashley Matthew, Eden Williams, and Jannieka Heng

Introducing four more incredible members of the WCS 2025 senior class: Jessie (Jiaxin) Xie, Ashely Matthews, Eden Williams, and Jannieka Heng.

Meet Jessie (Jiaxin) Xie
Favorite Bible Verse: Isaiah 40:31

When asked to describe her experience at WCS in three words, Jiaxin replied, “Overcoming, Discovering, and Experiencing.” Jiaxin joined the ECS community in the 9th grade and credits her experience in robotics and volleyball for teaching her resilience and responsibility. Jiaxin described the impact two teachers had on her life during high school. “Mrs. Leeson introduced me to the world of STEM and triggered my journey of exploring STEM subjects, eventually leading me to find my passion! Through robotics, I improved my English communication skills and developed leadership skills. It helped me get familiar with this new environment.”

Coach Glover also had a significant impact on Jiaxin. “Social Studies was the hardest class for me. I struggled as an international student who just got to the U.S. I really appreciate all the patience Coach Glover gives to his students. I could not go through the hardest year of adapting to language barriers without Coach Glover’s help! He is an amazingly great history teacher!”

During high school, Jiaxin grew in her faith through Bible classes, the influence of her friends, and the WCS teacher and staff. She wants younger WCS students to know, “We can do hard things!” After graduation, Jiaxin plans to study medicine and become a physician.

 

Introducing Ashley Matthew
Favorite Bible Verse: Ephesians 2:10

Ashley has been a student at WCS since preschool! Her favorite subjects are art and history. “Art allows me to express myself, and it allows me to create whatever I want to do. History, on the other hand, provides so much important information about our world and the decisions we have made in the past. I believe history is so important as it can be used as a precedent when making future decisions, and it shows how truly we are connected throughout the world and throughout time.”

Three WCS teachers had a significant impact on Ashley. “Mrs. Hatfield and Ms. Stone helped me understand the importance of seeing things from different perspectives. Mrs. Keese also greatly impacted me as she encouraged me to try new challenges. All three of these teachers helped me grow in my relationship with Christ. They also taught me how to face the unexpected and fostered my love for learning.”

Ashley credits growing in her faith to the wonderful support systems she fostered with friends and even some teachers. “I have learned great things about God, and it has changed the way I think about my relationship with God and how it affects my relationship with others,” she described. Joining the WCS theater program helped Ashley gain self-confidence and realize her passion for the fine arts. “Theater allowed me to find a loving community where I could be myself no matter what,” said Ashley. “It was one of the best decisions I made here.”

 After graduation, Ashley plans to earn a college degree in Graphic Design. She then hopes to receive a Juris Doctor and pursue a government job or become a defense attorney.

 

Meet Eden Williams
Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 16:11

Eden first came to WCS in the sixth grade. Her favorite class is Anatomy & Physiology with Mr. Reid. “I love this class because we get to dive deeper into the wonder of the human body, which has to do with my interests for the future,” said Eden. “It is so amazing how God made all of us with so many intricate details.”

The teacher who influenced Eden the most is Mr. Blaine. “He encouraged me always to be my best self, no matter what anyone else had to say. As I transitioned from middle school to high school, he reminded me not to conform, just as Romans 12:2 says. That advice has stuck with me throughout my high school years, and I will always strive to follow it.

One of Eden’s favorite memories at WCS was her freshman retreat because her class grew very close, and they continued to talk about the experience throughout high school. Eden was also very proud and grateful to receive the AP Scholar with Distinction Award. “It helped me realize that so much can be learned from AP classes, even if they are more difficult. The hard work is worth it!” Eden loves being involved at school and participated in many clubs and activities, including cheerleading, soccer, track & field, theatre, volleyball, Student Council, ASL club, HOSA (Future Health Professionals) club, Ambassador Club, and Interact Club.

Once she graduates, Eden plans to attend Spelman College and major in Health Science. Her goal is to become an obstetrician-gynecologist and establish her own practice. Ultimately, Eden hopes to “make a major difference in this world, encouraging others to do the same.” 

 

Introducing Jannieka Heng
Favorite Bible Verse: Proverbs 31:25

Jannieka started attending WCS in kindergarten and describes it as “my second home.” Theater is her favorite class, specifically her third-period class during her sophomore year. “It was a small class, but it had the biggest impact on me,” she explained. I always felt comfortable speaking my mind and being myself. I have many happy memories associated with that class!”

Throughout her years at WCS, Jannieka believes her relationship with God is stronger now because God-fearing individuals constantly surround her. “My friends and I have become closer through our common love for Jesus!” Jannieka wants younger students to understand the importance of reading the Bible. “Everyone’s journey is different, but if you immerse yourself in the Word daily and take it one step at a time, it will make the biggest difference!”

Mr. Blaine had an essential impact on Jannieka as a student. “Since the sixth grade, he always believed in me and constantly pushed me to be my best. I will always be grateful to him (and his cartwheel that he totally did NOT do in class).” The 2023 Homecoming Week is one of Jannieka’s favorite WCS memories, and she was incredibly proud when she was exempted from her honors pre-calculous final. Jannieka also discovered her love for theater at WCS. She has a close group of friends who have been there for her from day one. “They’re not just my “school friends,” they’re my family!”

Jannieka hopes that students can remember her in a positive light. She wants students to know that, “while you CAN do anything you set your mind to, you don’t HAVE to feel like you need to do everything. Everyone is human and can only juggle so much, even those you think have it all together.” Jannieka hopes to pursue a career in Business Marketing and Advertising in the future.

 

 

 

Westbury Christian School Celebrates 50 Years of Excellence

50 Years of Excellence: A Remarkable Milestone

It’s truly incredible to think that our 50th anniversary weekend is just days away! We’ve been eagerly preparing for this moment, and we can’t wait to celebrate this remarkable milestone with our entire WCS community.

Since opening our doors in 1975, WCS has accomplished so much. Together, we earned our first accreditation certificate and later received reaccreditation with “exemplary” status—a testament to our shared commitment to excellence. Over the years, our school has grown and flourished. From our early days offering nursery and elementary classes, we expanded to include junior high in 1978. By 1984, we proudly watched as our first high school graduates moved their tassels and stepped into the world, ready to make an impact.

We’ve shared so many memorable moments along the way. We cheered on our Wildcats during their first Final Four basketball appearance in ’89 and celebrated under the lights at Wildcat Field during our inaugural high school football game in 2020. These milestones not only mark significant achievements, but also reflect the strength and spirit of our community.

Throughout the years, we have focused on what matters most—nurturing our students to become kind, well-rounded individuals ready to face the world with confidence and compassion. These 50 years would not have been possible without your unwavering dedication, faith, and support.

As we gather to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look forward to the future, we want to express our deepest gratitude to each of you. We hope you join us for the celebration. There’s still time to RSVP for Alumni Night and the basketball games against St. Thomas Episcopal. As our special guests, all WCS alumni receive a complimentary dinner, T-shirt, and goodie bag. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey. Here’s to the next 50 years of learning, growth, and community!

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