22 JUNE 2022 www.goodnewsfl.org Good News • South Florida Edition GRADUATES Congratulations to the graduating class of 2022! “As the first class that has gone through the ‘entire’ Covid-19 experience, they endured the shut down as 10th graders, which led to mobile learning, then hybrid learning, then back to the ‘regular experience.’ Their resilience was put to the test and their reliance on their families, one another and the Lord helped them to thrive,” said Brian Alphenaar, high school principal at Calvary Christian Academy’s Fort Lauderdale campus (CCA). Perhaps this experience is why “this class has been exceptional in connecting with each other,” pointed out Chris Mitchell, high school principal at CCA’s Hollywood campus. “The graduates went from being shy, reserved and withdrawn to sharing their faith journey in Christ while being authentic. And they are not afraid to challenge the status quo.” Dr. Ron Farrar, upper school principal at Westminster Academy (WA), applauded the graduates’ willingness to adjust and be flexible. “They did everything without complaining and each student contributed to help make this 50th year anniversary for our school special.” However, he challenged them to “stand firm in their faith, remain steadfast in prayer and use their God-given gifts” after graduation. What is the biggest challenge the graduates face going forward? “Challenges to the truth in its many and varied applications,” saidAlphenaar, “ that they know the truth; however, their deep roots of knowledge and faith will help them to withstand the attacks and lies of the world.” Mitchell said he believes the graduates are “equipped to bring the gospel of Jesus to a world that has never known him or rejected him. Of course, they will be challenged by others because of their purity stance and holding to the biblical definition of a family, but they will influence others for the sake of the gospel.” Inspired to excel We feature top graduates from local Christian schools in the pages that follow and asked a few what inspired them. Shiphrah Currie, Salutatorian at CCA Hollywood, said “Jesus inspired me because back in His day He was tempted by Satan and He was hated on for no reason, but He kept on pushing and pushing. He was strong and that made me be stronger because I realize that if Jesus went through that and pulled through, I can do the same too.” Her advice to students entering high school is “don’t waist time. This comes with practice and failures turn into opportunities and blessings.” As a hands-on learner,Annie Torres, Valedictorian at CCAHollywood, said, “The biggest challenge I faced during high school was COVID and adjusting to online school.” Annie said her mom inspired her to “reach for the stars” and she now plans to study Health Administration at Florida International University.” Caron Elmer, Salutatorian at WestminsterAcademy, said “What inspired me was having older friends than me that pushed me to be even better than I ever imagined in all aspects.” Carson plans to attend the University of Florida to study industrial engineering. His advice is “don’t rush towards the finish line. Enjoy every moment of high school.” “What inspired me during high school was the many blessings in my life,” said Matthew Selbach, Valedictorian at Westminster Academy. “I understood what a privilege it was to go to a private school, and I knew that doing well would open up many incredible opportunities.” Matthew aspires to be a doctor and plans to attend the University of Florida. “My advice to those entering high school is to make good friends. My friends have been greatly involved in my life and have been very supportive.” Advice for the future CCA Fort Lauderdale Salutatorian Josiah Lane said, “One piece of advice that I would give is to not worry so much about little things. God has a plan for each of us, so there’s no point in worrying over small things.” The biggest challenge he faced was balancing academic life with social life, and he said, “My family is my biggest inspiration.” Josiah plans to study computer science at Liberty University and hopes to become a software developer. AubreyMeeske, Valedictorian at CCAFort Lauderdale, said, “The thing that inspired me was knowing that the Lord had a purpose for my life and that he blessed me with certain gifts that could help me excel.” Her advice would be to stay organized so you don’t fall behind. “It can be hard to balance friends, sports and academics.” Aubrey plans to attend the University of Alabama and major in accounting. As the graduates step into the future, Dr. Farrar said his hope is “that they would be known as faithful and committed individuals, and would run the race set before them with excellence.” Class of 2022 Unafraid to Challenge the Status Quo Shelly Pond Good News Editor Pictured L-R: Josiah Lane, Salutatorian, Calvary Christian Academy Fort Lauderdale; Shiphrah Currie, Salutatorian, Calvary Christian Academy Hollywood; Carson Bryan Elmer, Salutatorian, Westminster Academy; Aubrey Meeske, Valedictorian, Calvary Christian Academy Fort Lauderdale; Matthew Perry Selbach, Valedictorian, Westminster Academy; and Annie Torres, Valedictorian, Calvary Christian Academy Hollywood. Photo by Justus Martin www.justusmartinphoto.com Westminster Academy Devoted To Christ Dedicated To Excellence
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