by admin | Jul 18, 2024 | WCS Service
At WCS, we believe in empowering our Wildcats to serve those less fortunate.
A beloved annual fundraising drive to benefit impoverished children in Honduras and Haiti continued for its 26th year at WCS. During the spring semester, students from kindergarten through the senior class collected spare change in specially designed water bottles to benefit orphans in these two countries. Our third graders designed this year’s bottles for WCS students and families in this voluntary outreach.
HISTORY
Westbury Christian Middle School and High School Bible Teacher and Middle School Girls’ Basketball Coach Steve Hawley spearheaded the collection that originated in Lebanon, Tennessee, at Friendship Christian School in 1995.
Honduras has a special place in Coach Hawley’s heart. His first mission trip to Honduras occurred in July 1998, weeks before he arrived at WCS. A few months later in October, Hurricane Mitch devastated Honduras, and the project was introduced to the Westbury Christian family. The change receptacles evolved from used drink containers to Powerade bottles to unique bank bottles donated by a generous WCS family. For twenty years, this family supplied WCS students with bottles, which include the WCS crest, logos of the partnering charities, and James 1:27, the theme verse for the program. All 22 coin bottles are on display, tied into a mural commemorating these efforts, in Coach Hawley’s classroom.
MISSION LAZARUS HOPE FOR HAITI’S CHILDREN
The funds raised at WCS provide support to two nonprofit Christian organizations: Mission Lazarus, a holistic ministry focused on community development in Honduras through spiritual, educational, medical, and agricultural outreaches; and Hope for Haiti’s Children, which utilizes in-country educators and professionals to nurture, educate and train poverty-bound Haitian children to become spiritual leaders. As in recent years, WCS has chosen to support the Hope for Haiti’s Children school lunch program.
“The children at these schools are fed lunch every day. For some kids, this is the only meal they will get so this is incredibly vital,” says Coach Hawley. Mission Lazarus, who has provided wooden cross necklaces for our students for 15 years, earmarks the WCS contribution towards a different need annually.
This school year, the total donation was over $12,500, a school record, divided between Hope For Haiti’s Children and Mission Lazarus. The money sent to Hope for Haiti’s Children are earmarked for the lunch program. Following years past, the change was sorted and counted by WCS students.
In April, Coach Hawley attended the Hope for Haiti’s Children Houston breakfast. Third graders Miles and Zoe were selected to represent the third grade and juniors Oluwaseyi and Bella were invited to participate at the breakfast.
“What made this year extra special was alumni participation,” says Coach Hawley. “Caleb Godard ’18 spearheaded an alumni Go Fund Me page which netted $1,500 for the cause!”
Our Kindergarten class has had an impressive involvement this year. Mrs. Reynold’s shared her insight and favorite memories with the collection.
“It’s a treat and a privilege for those of us who teach our young Wildcats to model the importance of sharing God’s gifts with those who are not as blessed as we are,” says Mrs. Reynolds. “Our annual participation in helping the children in Haiti and Honduras goes hand in hand with our Lower School daily Bible and chapel curriculum. It’s an important part of who we are as Wildcats.
“For us, it’s always a thrill to see our Kindergarteners excited about their new water bottles, filled to the brim with their coins. The Kindergarteners love to carry their heavy bottles into class. They love hearing the coins jingle as they empty them into the larger water jug, and they love looking into the jug to see the wide variety of coins in it. It’s tangible, and it involves all of their senses.
“At the end of the project, the Kindergarteners get to use their knowledge of coins to sort them with the upperclassmen. Coach’s program not only brings our community together to help another community, but it also incorporates both cross-curriculum learning and our living WCS core values.”
To learn more about the benefiting organizations, visit missionlazarus.org and hopeforhaitischildren.org.
by admin | May 30, 2024 | Around Campus
Each graduating class leaves a distinct legacy to Westbury Christian and has played a special role in their time at the school. The Class of 2024 is no exception; their impact and influence will last for years. Let’s take a closer look at some of their defining traits and moments:
- The Class of 2024 left a lasting legacy at Westbury Christian. Of the graduating seniors, two students – Keiwan and Luke – have been at WCS since preschool, and Cooper spent most of his school career at WCS.
- The Class of 2024 will be making an impact across the country next fall as they head to college. From Savannah College of Art and Design (Levi) to Santa Clara (Richard), studying degrees from Computer Science to Early Childhood Education, Engineering, and Business. This year’s top collegiate destinations have been the University of Houston and Texas State University.
- The Class of 2024 has had service in their heart for years. In high school, they’ve collectively recorded over 1,400 hours of community service across a variety of different organizations and projects. Levi recorded an impressive 309 hours of service during his time at Westbury Christian. But this group has been serving the community together since middle school, frequently working in local ministries and other community organizations. There is no doubt hundreds of unrecorded hours that have been spent serving across our community.
- Over the past several years, the Class of 2024 has benefited from learning from other perspectives to enrich their understanding of the world. This includes classmates from other countries, including China (Yasmine and Felis) and Vietnam (Quan), who have learned alongside their American peers for the past four years.
- The Class of 2024 left a lasting legacy for Wildcat athletics. Three male athletes have signed their national letter of intent to play collegiate sports. Troy will play basketball at William Penn, Sebastian will play basketball at North Dakota State College of Science, and Cooper will play basketball at Hope College. Troy, Cooper, and Sebastian led the boy’s basketball program to multiple state tournament appearances and Final Four finishes. Carter, Rodrigo, and Vince led the way in a groundbreaking soccer season. Vince was also a pivotal player for the football team and baseball team. Gabi also explored her athletic interests in soccer, track, and cheer. Lauren left a lasting legacy on the track and field team by recording a new school record in the 100m (12.81).
- The Class of 2024 has been involved in a wide range of leadership roles and activities on campus. Keiwan, Richard, and Levi starred in Freaky Friday this spring with Jada and Keiwan serving in theater tech. Quan developed her leadership skills with the yearbook staff, serving as Editor this past year. Yasmine also delighted spectators with her artistic abilities. Luke and Felis were an integral part of the VEX Robotics team throughout their time at WCS and Chikere impacted Interact Club and found his passion in leading service opportunities for others.
- Perhaps most importantly, the Class of 2024 has grown closer over the years. They’ve overcome tragedies and challenges and shared exciting accomplishments and joys.
We will certainly miss the Class of 2024, but we know they will continue to grow as they depart WCS. We look forward to hearing how they make a Kingdom Impact in the future. Congratulations to all the members of the Class of 2024!
by admin | May 29, 2024 | Around Campus
[Houston, TX] – Westbury Christian School has dedicated the Jack & Mary Gray Student Life Center, a vital hub for student activity and spiritual development. The Jack & Mary Gray Student Life Center, which includes the cafeteria, stage, gymnasium, and fine arts hall, represents a major “heartbeat” area of the school. Most of the experiences and activities of school that happen outside of the classroom take place in this area of the building.
“These spaces are much more than classrooms, a cafeteria, a gym,” said WCS Head of School Nathan Wagner. “These places are where our students get to uncover and explore the gifts and talents that God has given them. Places where they often discover a new passion, places they may consider their home on campus. These are spaces where they are known, loved, and encouraged to do great things.”
The Jack & Mary Gray Student Life Center reflects the extraordinary generosity of Jack and Mary Gray. The Grays have been committed to sharing the Gospel throughout their lives, and they believed Christian education was an important part of that mission.
A Legacy of Christian Education
The Gray family became friends and donors to Westbury Christian School in the late 1990s. Mrs. Inez Gray, the family matriarch, was a matron of the school until her death. Following in his mother’s footsteps, her son Jack and his wife Mary became regular donors to WCS. In the year 2000, Jack Gray was appointed to the Westbury Christian School Board of Trustees. Mr. Gray served in that capacity for approximately fifteen years, faithfully accepting the role as an important responsibility.
During his tenure as a trustee, Mr. and Mrs. Gray became dependable friends of the school. Always present at many school functions, they encouraged others to support the school in their church and community. The Grays were liberal donors, helping in the building of Mundy Hall, making regular gifts for operations, and providing loans when needed. Their major financial offering to WCS will come in their final estate gift that will represent the largest gift in school history, to date.
A Heart for God and Students
Underlying all that Mr. and Mrs. Gray have done for Westbury Christian School is their undying love for God their Father, expressed by their belief that Christian education is a catalyst for preaching Christ and His crucifixion. In addition to supporting Christian education, the Grays have been faithful members of the Channelview Church of Christ since 1945. The Christian faith has been central to their lives.
“The money, the time and the love you and Mary have shared with this school have touched the hearts of students you haven’t met and have touched the lives of people who have yet to come through this door. We appreciate you more than you know it,” added former Head of School Robert McCloy.
The Jack & Mary Gray Student Life Center stands as a testament to the Grays enduring legacy. It will continue to foster a vibrant environment where students explore their talents, develop their faith, and build lifelong friendships.
by admin | May 24, 2024 | Around Campus
Sheila Kaldis first connected with Westbury Christian School as a parent, but it didn’t take long for her to join the school as a Wildcat employee. Over the past 35 years, Mrs. Kaldis has worked closely with our primary and elementary programs. She is often the first person many of our young Wildcats meet during the admissions process. Her presence has undeniably shaped the Lower School experience for countless students. Her contagious smile, patient spirit, and comforting hugs have made WCS a warm and welcoming place for students to learn and grow. We will miss her greatly as she steps into a new season of retirement. Mrs. Kaldis took the time to share her experience of working at WCS over the past 35 years.
What are some of your most cherished memories from your time at Westbury Christian School?
SK: Some of my most cherished memories include the privilege to see and be a part of the tremendous growth that WCS has experienced over the years. I was invited to be a part of the ceremonial groundbreaking crew to mark the construction of Mundy Hall. I was also honored to plan and be a part of the ribbon-cutting ceremony to open our brand-new preschool playground and the new Joan Partain Library. I also enjoyed being on the team that was responsible for WCS switching to school uniforms and choosing which items our students would wear.
What are you most proud of accomplishing during your years here?
SK: Initiating plans to add the Lower School Community Service initiative – Project Hug, The Houses Program, and The Social Emotional Program here.
What are you most grateful to God for during your time here?
SK: For helping me develop an empathetic heart toward parents and a compassionate heart toward the students. I pray that I have always shined my light brightly for Jesus to all who needed to see it.
What are you most looking forward to in retirement?
SK: I am most looking forward to not setting an alarm and traveling to England, Greece, and France in August/September. I also plan to read all of the books I’ve gathered over the years and creating an English garden.
Will you stay connected to the Westbury Christian School community in any way?
SK: Most definitely! I bleed Blue and Gold.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with current teachers or students?
SK: Every morning, ask God to help you prepare each of your students’ hearts, minds, and souls every day according to His will. Remember, every child has a story, be a positive part of their story.
Is there a Bible verse that has been especially meaningful to you throughout your career? Why?
SK: Philippians 4:13 (I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me) This is my favorite life verse and has helped me so often at work when I have had a difficult task to accomplish or had to have a difficult conversation with a parent. It has helped me many times to keep my calm when I am trying to calm a student who is angry or upset.
You’ve touched the lives of so many students. Is there a particular story of a student that stands out to you?
SK: Not a particular student, but I am always touched when students who started with us in our primary department and are now in high school tell me that they remember me giving them their admissions test and lots of hugs.
What will you miss most about working at this school?
SK: Working alongside such talented and dedicated individuals. It has been an absolute privilege to be part of a team that supports, encourages, loves, prays, and learns together. I am blessed that the decision to retire has been so difficult because I love the WCS community so much.
As you move on to this new chapter, what are your prayers for the school community?
SK: I pray for a spirit of unity and harmony as the board of trustees, administration, faculty, and staff work together toward the common goal of continually improving the spiritual, academic, and student activities experiences for every WCS student.
by admin | Apr 15, 2024 | Around Campus
Congratulations to our WCS band program for the incredible achievement of finishing 3rd in the year-long state band competition held in Waco!
After earning 47 superior and excellent ratings at the solo and ensemble competition in February, our band program earned two superior and one excellent rating at the final large ensemble competition in March.
Here’s what some of our Wildcats band members had to say about the experience:
Penny W. – 7th Grade
“I loved being given the opportunity to go to this competition and bond with other Wildcats over something that we enjoy doing. Preparing for this competition allowed me the chance to get to know other students better, especially the high schoolers that we performed with. They made sure we felt included throughout the process.
It was nice hearing the opinions from the various conductors and directors who came in and helped us prior to the competition.
Competing in the beginning was a bit nerve-wracking, but being in the competition room and hearing everyone playing made me feel calmer and more comfortable. Overall, it was an amazing experience.”
Kaitlyn Marley – 10th Grade
“It was really fun, and it was a great way to build community with other Wildcats. And, I felt closer to other band members after the trip. Everyone was so supportive and honest with each other, and it really felt like a family.
I am extremely proud of our accomplishments, because regardless of placements God blessed us with the chance to compete, took away all of our anxiety, and gave us a reward for going out there and giving our best.”
Evelyn Carr – 10th Grade
“It was nice to have a band director and judge come critique us prior to the competition. This competition was meaningful because we were allowed the opportunity to just play for fun and just fellowship. Mr. Ward really helped us be the best we can be and pushed us to perform our best no matter what.”
We are incredibly proud of our WCS band program and their outstanding achievement!
by admin | Apr 4, 2024 | Senior Spotlight
Senior Richard Chandler takes the stage again this spring in one of the lead roles of Freaky Friday, the WCS spring musical.
This leading role is not new for Richard. Throughout his time in high school, he has consistently taken leadership positions, demonstrating his courage and desire to serve others and be an influence. He served on the Student Council for two years, currently as the StuCo President, and the National Honor Society for three years, including terms as both President and Vice President. He’s also a member of the National Spanish Honor Society and Thespian Society. In addition to these service organizations, he participated in football, basketball, soccer, and track and field. Last spring, he found time to play the lead role of Aladdin in the WCS theatrical production of Aladdin Jr.
His six years at WCS have shaped him into the person he is today and inspired him to encourage and serve others.
“My favorite memory is going to the Middle School Retreat at Camp Cho-Yeh. It was so fun to do,” Richard said. “This year I got to go on the Middle School retreat to Camp Glenn and I loved watching others live through the same thing I did.”
Richard credits WCS for the growth of his spiritual walk during his time at WCS.
“My spiritual walk has grown a lot,” he explained. “One reason is our required yearly Bible classes. The eighth-grade boys’ Bible class taught me what it means to be a man and lead. I have also learned a lot from other Bible teachers during my time at Westbury Christian like Coach Hawley, Mr. Reid, Mr. Santos, and Mr. Wagner. They’ve truly shown me what it means to live and be a Christian in today’s society.”
When asked if a teacher had inspired him, he immediately credited Social Studies Department Head, Mrs. Courtney Hatfield. “She’s very proper and very smart! She motivates me. That’s what I want to be like in college.”
After Westbury Christian, Richard plans to study computer science and enter the tech industry.
“WCS has given me the resources that I need to gain experience beforehand. This year I am taking AP Computer Science, which is a class not a lot of people get to take. I am very grateful for that class. They also helped me get a year ahead in math, which helped me prepare for computer science. I truly value that.”
“The entire school is a very welcoming environment and everybody is so accepting. No matter what you do, where you come from, or your background, they always accept each other with open arms. It’s a community where everyone knows each other and says hello to everyone.”
Being part of the Wildcat family means everyone is willing to serve and help each other out. The students are genuinely involved and welcome those who are new and want to be a part of it.
When asked if he had any advice for new students, Richard said, “A lot of new students think Westbury Christian is like every other school where it will be hard to make friends. It’s not. That’s just not true. You are going to be immediately welcomed by one of our students. All you have to do is talk to them and say hi and you have a new friend now. It’s really easy to make friends here.”
“I appreciate being able to spend all my high school here, and if I got the chance to do it all over again I would do it here again.”
We are looking forward to seeing all that Richard accomplishes beyond Westbury Christian School.
by admin | Feb 15, 2024 | Middle School News
Last week, nine of our Middle School Wildcats participated in the Great History Challenge, a nationwide academic competition for middle school students to showcase their history knowledge. Earlier in the fall semester, our students signed up by taking a History-themed test. All of the Westbury Christian students who signed up qualified for the regional event in Houston, Texas. At the regional event, our Wildcats competed against other students from the Houston area in an in-person “Jeopardy-style” game with three clues per question, across three rounds of 25 questions each.
Of the 9 Wildcats who attended the regional competition, 7 achieved high scores and qualified to attend the Great History Challenge National Competition in Chicago this May.
“Our Wildcats represented our school well by portraying good sportsmanship and supporting each other between rounds,” says Social Studies Teacher and Faculty Sponsor Mr. Reece Anderson. “I am extremely proud of the students who participated! These students did a phenomenal job preparing for the event as they studied on their own before the competition. The subjects ranged from Ancient and Modern History to US History. This was our first year participating in The Great History Challenge and I’m very excited about our school’s future in this competition.”
Congratulations to our WCS Middle School National Championship Qualifiers!
8th Grade National Championship Qualifiers
Ben Ramos (placed top 5)
Christian Bird (placed top 5)
William Taylor (placed top 5)
Derron Robinson
Rothanak Heng
7th Grade National Championship Qualifiers
Catalina Dewberry (placed top 5)
6th Grade National Championship Qualifiers
Wyatt Carr (placed top 5)
For more information about the Great History Challenge, please visit: https://www.greathistorychallenge.com/
by admin | Jan 31, 2024 | Lower School News
The 100th Day of School at Westbury Christian School was marked by joyful celebrations, engaging mathematical activities, and an exploration of how math is intertwined with everyday life. This year our classes celebrated one hundred days of being together and growing academically, spiritually, physically, and social-emotionally.
This school year’s 100th Day of School celebration was extra special thanks to a “Math is Cool” Assembly organized by Kindergarten Teacher, Mrs. Maria Reynolds and Preschool Teacher, Mrs. Kayla Garcia. The assembly’s highlight was a dynamic panel of working professionals, all parents within the Westbury Christian School community, demonstrating the real-world applications of mathematics across various career fields. The panel of experts shared with WCS Lower School students their careers, specifically how they use math in their everyday work.
“Our goal for the panel was to have parents from a variety of fields, who use math in many different ways. All too often, students only see math in a textbook and do not see how it is applicable in so many areas outside of the classroom,” says Lower School Principal Amanda Archer.
This year’s Math is Cool Assembly Parent Panel consisted of:
Mr. Jason Jones, Former NFL defensive lineman for the Titans, Lions, Seahawks, and Dolphins and current real estate investor and entrepreneur
Mrs. Rachel Murphy, Dietician at UT Health
Chef Terry Fontenette, Head Chef and Food Services Director at WCS
Mr. Christopher Taylor, Chief Financial Officer of Life Cycle Power
Mr. Jason Bates, Senior Vice President of Stellar Bank
“Our students were reminded that the math they are learning from their teachers is something they will continue to use every day of their lives, added Archer. “We heard about the difference in finance and economics, as well as how money moves from the US government to banks to people/businesses. Some of our experts shared how math has helped them know how to save, spend, and donate as well.”
Our students were thrilled to hear from their classmate’s parents and asked great questions to our panelists. Special thank you to our parent panel for generously volunteering their time to share with our students. Additionally, we thank Mrs. Reynolds and Mrs. Garcia for their dedicated efforts of organizing the first annual “Math is Cool” Assembly.
