Eliana Chen has achieved the status of a National Merit Semifinalist. More than 1.2 million students enter the program each year through the PSAT/NMSQT, and Semifinalists represent less than one percent of high school seniors in the United States.

Nicholas Sirois has been named a Commended Student, placing him among the top 50,000 students nationwide who entered the 2027 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT).

These recognitions represent more than strong test scores. They reflect the discipline, diligence, and commitment to excellence that Westminster Academy seeks to cultivate in its students.

Since 1955, the National Merit Scholarship Program has recognized academically talented high school students and provided opportunities for undergraduate scholarships. The program is conducted by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation, an independent, not-for-profit organization.

At Westminster Academy, achievements like these matter not simply because they bring recognition, but because they reflect something deeper.

The Westminster Academy Portrait of a Graduate calls students to be committed to excellence—to pursue their work with discipline, diligence, and resilience. It also calls them to become critical thinkers and lifelong learners who use the knowledge and abilities God has given them with purpose.

Nicholas and Eliana have demonstrated that pursuit in an exceptional way.

Congratulations to Nicholas Sirois and Eliana Chen on these well-earned honors. The Westminster Academy community celebrates their accomplishments and the faithful work behind them.

We are extremely proud of our athletic director, Mr. Paul Pierre, our coaches, and especially our players.

Way to go Scorchers!

In the lower school, students explore age-appropriate tools such as Dash robots and Sphero Bolts. Middle school opportunities include drone flying, fabrication, video production, and academic esports.

Older students work with professional design tools in the Digital Publishing Lab, including Wacom Cintiq displays, Mac Studios, AutoCAD, and Adobe Illustrator. Fabrication projects connect digital modeling with 3D printing, while robotics activities challenge students to code, collaborate, and solve problems.

Orangewood also highlights its iCreate student projects as part of its work as an Apple Distinguished School, showing how technology supports classroom creativity and innovation.

Source: Orangewood Christian School — Rams Innovate.

Originally published at Orangewood Christian School

Phase I delivers a new aquatic complex featuring a 25-meter competition pool, dive well, training pool and athletic pavilion, along with locker rooms, shaded spectator areas and key infrastructure improvements. Construction is scheduled to begin in the weeks ahead, with completion anticipated in August 2027.

Combined with the school’s recent land acquisition and long-term master site plan, the initiative represents a $20 million investment in the future of Westminster Academy.

“This is an exciting project because it’s something the school community will be able to use and benefit from right away,” said Jim Rhinehart, Vice President and Principal at KAST Construction. “It’s especially meaningful to be part of a project that supports the school’s long-term vision. Our team is focused on managing the work with care and coordination while maintaining the best possible environment for the school community throughout construction.”

The expansion follows the school’s recent acquisition of the adjacent property, enabling future academic, athletic and early childhood facilities as part of the broader campus plan.

The groundbreaking brought together school leadership, donors, students, families and community leaders. Attendees included former Florida State Representative George Moraitis; former Fort Lauderdale City Commissioner Heather Moraitis; Sean Ouellette, President and COO of KAST Construction; Jim Rhinehart, Vice President and Principal at KAST Construction; Dr. Joel T. Satterly, Headmaster at Westminster Academy; George Barbar, School Board Chair at Westminster Academy; and Chris and Sherry Clements, Capital Campaign Co-Chairs.

Dr. Satterly shared, “Today is not about turning a shovel. That is something to help us remember. Today is really about legacy. Remembering and celebrating those who have gone before us to make this day possible.”

The project reflects strong early support from the Westminster Academy community, including more than $3 million raised in 45 days through contributions from alumni, parents and stakeholders.

Originally published at Westminster Academy Website

Mr. Vande Pol brings a wealth of experience in Christian education leadership, having most recently served as Head of School at Hillcrest Christian School in Thousand Oaks, California. Prior to that, he served as Head of School at Bradenton Christian School in Bradenton, Florida. His leadership experience also includes service as Board Chair for Christian Schools of Florida, reflecting his deep commitment to advancing Christian education across the state.

“Dan is a proven leader with a strong track record of academic excellence, spiritual formation, and community building,” said Joe Velderman, Board President of Summit Christian School. “Throughout our search process, it became clear that his vision, character, and leadership style are an exceptional match for Summit’s mission and future. We are thrilled to welcome Dan and his wife, Amy, to our community.”

​​​Mr. Vande Pol is known for fostering Christ-centered learning environments that emphasize both academic rigor and spiritual growth. His leadership has consistently strengthened school culture, expanded enrollment, and deepened community engagement. ​“I am honored and excited to join Summit Christian School,” said Vande Pol. “Amy and I look forward to becoming part of the Fort Myers community and partnering with families, faculty, and the board to build upon Summit’s strong foundation. We are eager to see how God will continue to work in and through this school.”

Dan and Amy Vande Pol will be relocating from Thousand Oaks, California to Southwest Florida in the coming months. Summit Christian School remains committed to providing a high-quality, Christ-centered education that equips students to thrive academically, spiritually, and socially.​ With Mr. Vande Pol’s leadership, we look ahead with excitement and gratitude for God’s constant provision.

High Point erased a double-digit second-half deficit and took its first-ever NCAA Tournament win in just its second appearance. The defining moment came with 11.7 seconds remaining. After Wisconsin missed a go-ahead layup, Rob Martin secured the rebound and delivered a full-court pass to Johnston, who finished a breakaway layup to give High Point an 83–82 lead. Notably, the basket marked Johnston’s first made two-point field goal of the season—an ironic and fitting moment for a player known almost exclusively for his three-point shooting.

After delivering the decisive play, Johnston reflected on the moment through the lens of his faith, “I was just praying, ‘Lord, let us shock the world.’”

High Point’s defense secured the win in the final seconds. Moments after the final buzzer, Johnston pointed not to himself, but to his faith.

“First and foremost, I want to give all glory to my Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,” Johnston said. “This team is built on John 15:13—we serve each other, we love each other, and we’d give everything for each other.”

Johnston, a 6-foot-3 graduate guard wearing No. 99, has built his role as a perimeter specialist, climbing to 415 career three-pointers—surpassing Stephen Curry’s total at Davidson and placing him among the top shooters in Division I history.

Johnston’s path to this moment has been marked by perseverance. After hip surgery earlier in his college career, he considered stepping away from basketball before returning with a renewed sense of purpose.

Johnston etched his name into the national record books in 2019, setting a new national high school boys’ record with 546 career three-pointers. Johnston also played a vital role in Westminster Academy basketball program’s sustained success, contributing to their fourth consecutive State Final appearance and securing their third consecutive State Championship in Lakeland, Florida. Westminster Academy is only the second school in Broward County to claim a state championship three-peat.

Reflecting on his time as Johnston’s varsity men’s basketball coach for six years at Westminster Academy, Coach Ehren Wallhoff states, “Chase was an instrumental part of the success of our state run and three state championships during his time here. He is a true competitor and winner who always had a work ethic that couldn’t be matched, which ultimately continued into his collegiate career, where he continues to win and make an impact both on and off the court. I am proud of how he’s continued to live out his faith while competing at the highest level.”

In addition to Johnston, Westminster Academy has two other alumni competing in this year’s NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament: Jaylen Carey, WA class of ’23, playing for the University of Tennessee, and Alex Lloyd, WA class of ’25, playing for the University of Florida.

The Westminster Academy basketball program has long been a cornerstone of the school’s championship athletic tradition. Founded in 1971, WA has developed a reputation for excellence across athletics, combining competitive success with a Christ-centered, biblically-based college preparatory education.

Through programs like men’s basketball, WA continues to develop not only championship athletes, but young men and women prepared to lead and impact the world for Christ.

Highlights of the season included emphatic playoff victories: a commanding 49–26 win over Merritt Island Christian, a 38–14 triumph in the state final against Bradenton Christian, and a consistent showing from both the skill positions and the trenches.

Throughout the year, RLCA’s offense surged, often piling up 300+ rushing yards or combining multiple scoring drives per game, while the defense held firm — limiting opponents and forcing turnovers.

Beyond the numbers, what made the 2025 season special was the character of the team: under pressure, facing adversity, the players stuck together, answered every challenge, and delivered under the brightest lights.

The completion of an undefeated championship run marks not just a high-water mark for RLCA football—it establishes a new standard for the program and sets a legacy that will inspire future generations of Raptors.

“This group has shown incredible heart all season,” said Athletic Director Aaron Skingley. “To go undefeated and reach the state championship speaks to the trust they’ve built, the hours they’ve invested, and the way they’ve lifted each other up through injuries and adversity. I’m proud of our players, our coaches, and the way they’ve represented our school and community.”

School Head Dr. Dawn Engle said: “Real Life Christian Academy is thrilled to celebrate our Varsity Football Team advancing to the State Finals for the first time in school history! We couldn’t be more proud of our players, coaches, and community as we cheer them on in this remarkable achievement.”

The game will be held Friday, November 21st, with a 1:00pm kickoff at:

The Range
H.G. Morse Stadium
2210 Dr. Randy McDaniel Way
The Villages 34762

Located directly adjacent to Westminster Academy’s main campus on Federal Highway, the property acquisition marks the culmination of a strategic vision shared by the Westminster Academy community. The acquisition was made possible through a unified commitment of prayer, faith, and financial support.

“This is more than a land purchase—it’s a generational investment in the future of Christian education,” said Mr. George Barbar ’98, Chairman of the Westminster Academy School Board. “We are stewarding this opportunity to strengthen the mission of raising up exceptional thinkers, lifelong learners, and influential leaders for Christ.”

With the closing complete, Westminster Academy has initiated the permitting process for demolition of the current structure on the site. Pending city approval, demolition is expected to be completed by year-end, opening the door for expanded parking and green space as an immediate benefit to the school and church communities. The long-term vision for the property includes development to further enhance WA’s commitment to excellence in academics, fine arts, athletics, and spiritual formation.

“This acquisition addresses long-standing needs for campus safety, accessibility, and growth. It reflects our shared belief in the power of Christ-centered education and our readiness to pursue bold steps that will impact generations to come,” said Dr. Joel Satterly, Westminster Academy Headmaster.

Westminster Academy is grateful for the continued support of its families, donors, and community partners. As this new chapter unfolds, Westminster Academy remains committed to transparency, stewardship, and the unwavering pursuit of its mission—for God’s glory alone.

Westminster Academy is a Christ-centered, biblically-based college preparatory school in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, serving over 1,000 students in PreK 2 through 12th grade, that is dedicated to equipping covenant students to excel by using their gifts and talents for God’s glory.

The championship match proved to be a thrilling conclusion to an already remarkable season. From the opening whistle to the final buzzer, the Westminster Academy Lions displayed unwavering teamwork, strategic execution, and a resolute spirit grounded in their mission to glorify God through excellence in athletics.

With each pass, block, and goal, the Lions demonstrated the fruits of their discipline and unity—qualities cultivated through months of rigorous training and spiritual growth. Though the game remained neck-and-neck, the Lions held their composure in the final moments, sealing a victory now etched into school history.

The 2025 state championship marks another milestone achievement for Westminster Academy’s water polo program and stands as a tribute to the steadfast commitment of its players, coaches, and families. The Lions’ season was characterized by sportsmanship, humility, and a pursuit of excellence rooted in biblical values.

Alex Lloyd and Markeli Jones–Tynes have been honored with this prestigious recognition for their outstanding performance on the court and their leadership as student-athletes. In addition to this historic achievement, both were recently named First Team Broward All-County by the Sun Sentinel and the Miami Herald.

Alex will continue his academic and athletic career at the University of Florida, and Markeli will take the next step in her journey at Robert Morris University. We are proud of their accomplishments and the way they have represented Westminster Academy with excellence, humility, and perseverance.

Since 1992, the Florida Dairy Farmers High School Sports Awards program has recognized over 5,000 of the state’s top athletes and coaches across 30 FHSAA-sanctioned sports. As the longest-running sports awards program in the nation, it is often regarded as the equivalent of the Heisman Trophy in Florida high school athletics.

At Westminster Academy, we celebrate not only the victories on the court but also the growth of character, leadership, and faith in our student-athletes. Congratulations to Alex and Markeli on this incredible honor—to God be the glory!

Of roughly 2,750 nominated students, approximately 30 students world-wide become Jefferson Scholars every year after an extensive interview process, including regional review and final selection.

Emily has not yet committed to UVA, as she is being courted by many top schools in the country, including Duke University and Washington and Lee University, but this scholarship certainly helps!

We are so proud of Emily and her classmates in the class of 2025, set to graduate in two months.

Ed Jones, Director of Development, opened the ceremony with a warm welcome and heartfelt thanks to everyone who made the project possible. He shared, “Time and time again, we would have roadblocks, setbacks, but time and time again, God came through. I’m so glad to be a part of what God has done here and what God is going to do.” His words reflected the perseverance and faith that have guided the journey of this new building.

Scott Moore, Bible Department Chair, led the opening prayer, dedicating the building to God and asking for His guidance in shaping the hearts and minds of the students who would walk its halls. His prayer set the tone for the day, as attendees gathered to celebrate the next chapter in the school’s history.

Will Weatherford, Managing Partner at Weatherford Capital and CCS Parent, shared his deep connection to the school, reflecting on the impact Cambridge has had on his own children and family. He said, “Cambridge has changed my kids’ lives. It’s changed our life just like it has yours, maybe your kids or your grandkids.” His words resonated with the audience, a reminder of the lasting influence the school has on families and future generations.

He went on to describe the building’s significance, emphasizing its role in increasing the number of students Cambridge Christian can serve and send into the community to impact the world for Christ. “Tampa Bay is in desperate need of more Cambridge Christian impact.”

Scott Meister, Chair of the Board of Trustees, reflected on his long history with the school. Having first walked on campus as a second grader 39 years ago, he shared, “When I first joined the board 10 years ago, I was focused on making this school better for my kids. But God has since shown me the greater calling of serving His eternal kingdom rather than my own. Today, I serve your kids, our grandkids, and those who have not yet walked our halls. I encourage you to think about your legacy and how your actions today will impact future generations.”

Shawn Minks, Head of School, shared the school’s renewed commitment to its mission. “We are more committed than ever to our mission, to kingdom education, to partnering with parents, and to the Lancer family, of which everyone here is a member. Cambridge Christian School is Jesus first, and we give Him all the glory for this amazing provision,” he said, expressing gratitude for the support of the community and the opportunity to continue the work God has called the school to do.

Kevin Edmonson, former Chairman of the Board, took the stage with his brother Billy Edmonson. Kevin spoke passionately about the role the school has played in shaping his family’s lives, honoring his parents, Bill & Patricia Edmonson, whose legacy at Cambridge Christian is deeply felt. He shared, “God’s plans were to shape and mold my kids and me. It did so much for me personally. It was just amazing. We get to be the light of Tampa Bay.”

Following Kevin Edmonson’s speech, a balloon drop revealed the striking new signage for Edmonson Hall, marking the next chapter for the high school campus.

The celebration continued with the official ribbon-cutting, symbolizing the opening of the new campus and a bright future ahead for Cambridge Christian School.

Guests were then invited to take a tour of the new building, with instructions provided on how to explore the state-of-the-art facilities.

This new high school campus at Cambridge Christian School stands as a testament to the vision, faith, and dedication of all those who have supported the school’s mission. With the continued guidance of God, the school looks forward to the future and the many lives that will be shaped by the education, values, and community at Cambridge Christian.

Located at 4950 Communication Avenue in Boca Raton, BRiC’s renowned corridors now feature a vibrant walking art exhibit that showcases a dynamic cross-section of student talent in both visual arts and music. Each piece on display reflects not only the students’ artistic ability but also their dedication to using their gifts for a greater purpose.

At the heart of the exhibition is the school’s mission: Enriching Minds, Engaging Hearts, and Empowering Leaders to impact the world for Christ. This mission is evident in every brushstroke, color choice, and musical performance, as students boldly and beautifully express their God-given creativity to inspire others.

At SRCS, we feel that our students are not just creating art—they are telling stories, reflecting truth, and glorifying God through their talents. It’s an honor to see their work displayed in such a prominent public venue, where it can bless and uplift everyone who walks these halls.

Parents, faculty, and community members gathered for the opening reception to celebrate the students’ achievements and witness firsthand how creativity and faith come together to make a meaningful impact. The exhibit, open to the public for the duration of the year, serves as an ongoing testament to the power of Christian education in developing the whole child—mind, heart, and spirit.

As the school continues to foster a culture of excellence in the arts, events like this reinforce Spanish River Christian School’s commitment to educate students spiritually, socially, and academically under the Lordship of Jesus.

Pinewood Christian Academy has been a PreK-8th grade school since its founding nearly thirty years ago. Typically, our graduated eighth graders go on to enroll in local public high schools. Therefore, our spiritual focus has been on preparing them to deal with secular cultural pressures and moral relativism. Yet today young people face even greater spiritual challenges: they have to navigate a culture that questions not just morality, but reality itself and their identity in a world where anything goes.

Last year, when we graduated our eighth graders, we concluded that we’re not done yet and we should expand into high school. There were three factors that we had to consider:

1. Is there a market for a Christian high school? 
2. Do the families in our community have the means to continue private education through high school?  
3. Is there a perceived need for Christian education in our community?

The answer to all three of these questions is yes.

Therefore, we believe the time is right to expand Pinewood Christian Academy to include high school and continue to support our students as we pursue our mission to educate world-changers for Christ.

HB 1285 allows schools to operate in any church, synagogue, library, community center, theater, performing arts venue, or museum in the state. The law creates a state-level preemption and requires that a Certificate of Use be issued regardless of local zoning laws. Religious institutions and other organizations can sublease unused space to schools.

A coalition of eduction policy experts, religious leaders and elected officials came together to craft this legislation to encourage new innovative schools to open or expand across Florida.

See the bill’s page at the Florida Senate site.