A Classical Core Latin, A Pillar of Classical Education-cover story

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A Classical Core Latin, A Pillar of Classical Education-cover story
THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF CORAM DEO ACADEMY                         SPRING 2021

                                          A Classical Core       cover story:
                                                         Latin, A Pillar of
                                                   Classical Education—
                                                Strengthening Language Skills
                                                Means Strengthening Thought
                                                                          p. 7
A Classical Core Latin, A Pillar of Classical Education-cover story
Production
                                                                                     An Organizational
    Executive Editor –                     Feature Photographer –
                                                                                     Leadership Model

                                                                                             for Servant
      Samantha Davis                         Kennedy Thornton
    Editors –                              Layout and Design –
      Laura Morlan                           Andrew Kendall
      Tara Mosby

                                                                                                         Leaders
      Michelle Simms
      Kennedy Thornton

                      Publication Awards
                                            2020 Platinum Winner                     by Dr. J. Alan Marshall, Colonel, USAF (Retired)
                                             MarCom Awards honors excellence         Coram Deo Academy President
                                             in marketing and communication
                                             design with thousands of entries

                                                                                                                   C
                                             submitted from dozens of countries.
                                                                                                                      oram Deo Academy (CDA)
                                            2020 Platinum Winner                                                      introduces students to a
                                             Hermes Creative Awards honors                                       personal leadership model known
                                             winners in traditional and digital
                                             platforms. Annually, judges evaluate                                as Servant Leadership. In the Spring
                                             the creative industry’s best work.                                  2019 Edition of the Forum, I explained
                                                                                                                 how CDA students could apply this
                                 Contents                                                                        “revolutionary leadership model
                                                                                                                 used by Jesus” to effectively lead
    Mary Perrone                                                                 4                               people (p.2). In this issue, I would
    Creating a Culture of Learning                                               6   like to present an organizational leadership model that is based
    Why Latin?                                                                   7   on Servant Leadership and can be useful in effectively leading
    The Vowells                                                                  8   any organization. This model is the Inverted Pyramid Model of
    Mrs. Michele Howard                                                         10   organizational leadership that modifies how the leader views
    Cover Story: Senior Accomplishments 2021                                    12
                                                                                     an organizational chart and leverages the power of Servant
                                                                                     Leadership across an organization.
    Grace Grapevine Community                                                   14
    Diamonds & Bow Tie Gala                                                     16   Although many people have read articles and heard speeches
                                                                                     about leadership, some may have recognized that most leadership
                                                                                     discussions are largely descriptive rather than prescriptive. In
                Lion’s Roar (flip magazine)                                          other words, many leadership scholars describe leadership
                                                                                     traits but rarely explain how to lead in any given situation. Often
    CC and FM Val/Sal                                                            2
                                                                                     leadership speeches and articles include a list of what leadership
    Senior Class 2021                                                            4   is, rather than provide a model for how to implement effective
    Commencement Speaker: Tommy Nelson                                          7    leadership. Leadership traits such as judgment, dependability,
    Fine Arts                                                                    8   initiative, decisiveness, tact, integrity, enthusiasm, bearing,
    Current Student: Owen Gerth                                                 10   courage, knowledge, loyalty, and endurance are frequently
    Dallas Campus — Making the Move                                             12   listed as requirements for effective leadership (Air University,
    Athletics                                                                   14   2011). Although such lists are helpful for self assessment and
                                                                                     accountability, the listed traits are so broad that it is difficult for
                                                                                     an aspiring leader to translate the concepts into a specific plan of
                                                                                     action. The purpose of this article is to give young Christian leaders
                            CDA Campuses                                             a leadership model to anchor their chosen list of leadership traits
                                                                                     worthy of pursuit.
      Collin County                    Dallas                  Flower Mound
        Pre-K to 12                   Pre-K to 9                  Pre-K to 12         An easy place to start discussing the Inverted Pyramid Model is
9645 Independence Pkwy              6930 Alpha Rd              4900 Wichita Trail    to look at the typical pyramid shape of a standard organizational
    Plano, TX 75025                Dallas, TX 75240         Flower Mound, TX 75022
  Phone 469.854.1300              Phone 972.385.6410          Phone 682.237.0232     chart. The pointed top of the pyramid represents the “leader” of
                                                                                     the organization. The expanding upper middle of the pyramid
                        www.   CoramDeoAcademy.org                                   represents mid-level leaders who work immediately below the
                                                                                     leader. The lower middle of the pyramid is manned by more
    Cover Image                                                                      numerous supervisors, and the bottom of the pyramid is filled out
    The School of Athens by Raphael
                                                                                     by followers or front-line workers (see Figure 1). The implication

2
A Classical Core Latin, A Pillar of Classical Education-cover story
of this pyramid shape is that the followers at the wide bottom           The Inverted Pyramid Model is theoretically derived from
of the pyramid support or “serve” their supervisors, who in turn         Servant Leadership Theory (Greenleaf, 1977) and Path Goal
serve mid-level leaders, who in turn serve the top leader. This          Leadership Theory (House, 1971). In Servant Leadership
standard pyramid organizational chart represents a leadership            Theory, the primary purpose of the leader is to serve the
model where requests for training, resources, and guidance flow          followers. In Path Goal Leadership Theory, the primary purpose
up from the followers to the top leader who then directs action          of the leader is to remove obstacles and increase support for
or provides direction downward in an effort to accomplish the            followers who achieve the goals of the organization. However,
mission of the organization.                                             the Inverted Pyramid Model is different from Greenleaf’s
The Inverted Pyramid model proposed in this article inverts the          formulation of servant leadership in that in Greenleaf’s theory,
standard organizational pyramid so that the wide “bottom”                     the leader places the interests of the follower above the
of the pyramid is now at the top of the page and the                                  interests of the organization, whereas in most
pointed “top” of the pyramid is at the bottom of                                           real-world organizations, the mission of the
the page (see Figure 2). In this Inverted Pyramid                                             organization must always come first. In the
Model, the organizational leader “serves” the                                                     Inverted Pyramid Model, leaders recognize
mid-level leaders immediately above (in the                                                          that front-line workers are the ones who
inverted pyramid) by providing the training,                                                           must accomplish the mission of the
resources, and guidance that these                                                                      organization and their supervisors and
leaders need. In the same way, mid-                                                                       leaders exist to provide them with
level leaders “serve” the supervisors                                                                      what they need to do so. Indeed, such
by ensuring that these supervisors                                                                          a model exposes any supervisor
have what they need to support the                                                                           or leader that fails to catch the
front-line workers. The supervisors in                                                                       vision. Since the organizational
                                                                   FIGURE 1
turn provide the followers or front-line                                                                     leader takes failure of the mission
workers with the training, resources,                                                                        personally, front-line failures will be
and guidance needed to accomplish                                                                            traced by the organizational leader
the mission.                                                                                                 to the break in the chain of service.
                                                                                                            Everyone will know where the break
The important concept in the Inverted                                                                       occurred in the Inverted Pyramid
Pyramid Model is that the purpose of                                                                       Model, and the model requires that
each person is to serve and support                                                                      the broken link of service be repaired.
those above them in the inverted
pyramid, ultimately providing the front-line                                                           With all this said, the Inverted Pyramid
workers with what they need to succeed. If                                                           Model is easy to remember and is
a front-line worker lacks training, resources,                                                    conceptually      practical. All organizations have
or guidance, then the problem is not with the                                                  a  hierarchy     of leadership  that can benefit from
worker, but with the supervisor. If the supervisor                 FIGURE 2                 servant    leadership     concepts.    Servant Leadership
lacks the resources needed to train, supply, or guide the                              has   been    researched      for over 40   years and scholars
workers, then the fault isn’t with the supervisor, but rather with              have   found   it  to be   effective   across  all cultures and many
the mid-level leaders. If the mid-level leaders lack what they need      environments      (business,      military,  education,   etc.). By leveraging
to support the supervisors, then the problem lies not with the mid-      the Inverted Pyramid Model of leadership, young servant leaders
level leaders, but with the organizational leader.                       can lead any group or organization effectively and any Coram Deo
                                                                         Academy graduate can stand out as a strong and effective leader
Although a superficial inspection of the Inverted Pyramid Model          amongst their peers.
seems to only be a visual manipulation, the conceptual difference
between the Inverted Pyramid Model and the standard model
is profound. In the Inverted Pyramid Model, the organizational
leader is ultimately responsible for providing everything the
front-line workers need to accomplish the mission, not the other         Air University. (2011). Competencies & skills. Strategic Leadership
way around. Mid-level leaders and supervisors are responsible            Studies. Retrieved from http://www.6mcd.usmc.mil/ftl_site/Handbook/
for knowing what the front-line workers need and for informing           marine_corps_leadership__traits.htm. Maxwell, AFB, AL: Air University.

leaders “lower” in the inverted pyramid when training, resources,        House, R. J. (1971). A path-goal theory of leader effectiveness.
                                                                         Administrative Science Quarterly (16), 321–339.
or guidance is lacking.
                                                                             Greenleaf, R. (1977). Servant leadership, Mahwah, NJ: Paulist Press.

                                                                                                                                                   3
A Classical Core Latin, A Pillar of Classical Education-cover story
Mary
                                          Perrone
                               FLOWER MOUND CLASS OF 2017:
                                                 GRADES 3-12
                          FASHION INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY:
                     BA, FASHION DESIGN WITH AN EMPHASIS IN
                                   BRIDAL AND EVENING WEAR

    I graduated from CDA in 2017 and moved to New York
    immediately after. I’ve been studying fashion design at the
    Fashion Institute of Technology. My emphasis is on bridal
    and evening wear. Right now, I’m in my senior year and
    working on my thesis.

4
A Classical Core Latin, A Pillar of Classical Education-cover story
How did CDA shape your faith?               constantly pray about. I am constantly
                                            seeking the Lord, not only for large           Mary Designed
At CDA, we started our day at school with
prayer. Having friends and teachers that
                                            decisions like moving to New York, but         CDA’s New Plaid
                                            also everyday choices.. When you go to
you are comfortable praying with makes                                                                       …COMING SOON
                                            college in New York, or college anywhere,
CDA a unique, healthy environment.
                                            you have to choose to walk faithfully. I       When did you first realize you
There’s so much encouragement at CDA,
                                            had parents, friend groups, and teachers       were interested in fashion?
and that encouragement comes from
                                            who encouraged me in my faith while at
having teachers who love the Lord and                                                      I’ve always been interested in fashion.
                                            CDA. Everything was taught in a faith-
who have been called to teach. It’s one                                                    It started when I was very young,
                                            based way, but once you graduate you
of the reasons I loved CDA so much. The                                                    probably four. I loved playing dress up,
                                            have to work at it and make it part of your
teachers have a level of understanding                                                     having my arms full of bracelets and
                                            daily life.
that you can only have when the Lord is                                                    my hair done. It was more of a fantasy
living within you.                          How have you exercised servant-                or dream. I never realized it was an
                                            leadership since graduating                    actual career choice until high school.
Every single class discussion was
centered around faith. I remember Mrs.      from CDA?
                                                                                           Is this your first time creating a
Powell’s class and Mr. Jordan’s class       One of the best ways to exercise servant-      custom plaid design?
did an excellent job of teaching us how     leadership is through respect and
                                                                                           I’ve designed dozens of plaids by now,
to analyze scripture. I can now do it on    humility. It’s not something you can just
                                                                                           but this is my first time doing it for a
my own in my time with the Lord. CDA        label. The fashion industry sometimes
                                                                                           client. I’m happy that CDA was my first
teaches you how to read the Bible very      glamorizes egotism. I’m really wary of
                                                                                           client. Typically, every collection you
well, and having those special classes      this, and I think it would be so cool to
                                                                                           design has a plaid, a stripe, and maybe
was helpful.                                be a creative director at a fashion brand,
                                                                                           a solid design in mind.
                                            to treat interns with kindness and have
How did your educational experience
                                            ethical business strategies. I constantly      Tell us about your creative
impact you on a personal level?
                                            have to ask the Lord to graciously work        process for CDA’s exclusive plaid.
I would describe myself as a very curious   and live in me. That’s how I exercise
                                                                                           CDA has very thorough brand standards
person. While I would never major in        servant-leadership.
                                                                                           that I was provided with. I looked at
science, I’m still fascinated with space,
                                            I don’t think the idea of being a servant is   the color codes, received information
and so many things outside of my field of
                                            something especially popular in today’s        about the culture of each campus, and
study inspire me all the time. CDA gave
                                            society. Just having that very unique and      then considered who would be wearing
me a good taste of multiple subjects. I
                                            humble approach to living your life will       the plaid. I knew it had to be a plaid that
think the curriculum and the teachers
                                            foster great leaders. It’s so important        would suit all students, whether tall,
at CDA were wonderful. History and
                                            to share this with young people before         petite, thin, or curvy.
literature were especially helpful for
                                            they go off and start their college and
me. I really think you see God through                                                     Plaids can communicate different
                                            business careers.
history and how people have lived their                                                    moods. You can have a plaid with a
lives for generations. We learned so        Do you have any encouraging words              southern look, like a picnic table or
much about the church. The way we read      or advice you’d like to share with             napkin. Or, you can have an English or
the Bible from a historical context has     current CDA students?                          Scottish plaid that gives a sense of old
really aided in how I see the world and                                                    military uniforms. While designing for
                                            School doesn’t last forever. Try
how I view scripture.                                                                      CDA, it was important to find a plaid
                                            something new! One of the great things
                                                                                           that looks modern and up to date while
This    strong    grasp   of   history,     about CDA is that you are given every
                                                                                           also fitting within CDA’s aesthetic.
literature, and philosophy has made         opportunity to participate in art, music,
researching my fashion collections and      or athletics. Just go for it. If I could go
understanding trends easier in college.     back, I’d play tennis simply because I had
Even beyond fashion, I value my             the opportunity. Also, enjoy one another.
education. I have so much appreciation      During the pandemic, it has been easier
for everything we learned.                  to notice how much we need one another.
                                            The community and support system at
How have you leaned on your faith to        CDA is very helpful, and it’s something
help you make difficult decisions?
                                            I’ll always treasure.
I have desired to walk with the Lord
through college, and it’s something I

                                                                                                                                  5
A Classical Core Latin, A Pillar of Classical Education-cover story
Creating a
    Culture of Learning
    ~ ROBERT TERRY

     “The purpose of learning is growth, and our                provisional level of certification and are now working
    minds, unlike our bodies, can continue growing              on their permanent level. Sixteen faculty have
                                                                completed their permanent certification which also
       as we continue to live.” – Mortimer Adler
                                                                requires three years of classical teaching experience.
    To pass on a tradition and culture of learning to our       Teachers are given increases in pay at each level that
    students is one of the great tasks of classical Christian   will continue with them as long as they teach at CDA.
    education. This assumes that a school has a culture
                                                                Summer conferences in classical education play an
    which is embodied by its faculty, which means that
                                                                important part in growing as classical educators as
    it is essential for our faculty to be knowledgeable in
                                                                well. Major conferences are held each summer in
    their disciplines and life-long learners. At Coram
                                                                the United States by The Association of Classical and
    Deo Academy, opportunities abound for faculty to
                                                                Christian Schools (ACCS), The Society of Classical
    continue their learning.
                                                                Learning (SCL), and The Circe Institute. These
    An annual cycle of in-house training, a formal              conferences are attended by hundreds of classical
    Classical Teacher Certification Program, and a              educators from around the world and provide a rich
    Master’s Degree Reimbursement Program, are three            banquet of talks, practicums, and opportunities for
    ways that CDA cultivates an atmosphere of learning          meeting peers from other schools. Many CDA faculty
    and content mastery. Faculty members are required           attend one of these conferences each summer and
    to complete 120 hours of continuing education over a        some of our faculty and staff present talks on aspects
    rolling five-year period, averaging 24 hours per year.      of classical education to their peers.
    This hour requirement, for the most part, can be met
    through our internal programs alone.                              I thought this course was useful and
                                                                  enlightening, especially for a teacher who is
    Our annual cycle of in-house training includes fall
    and spring district training, quarterly grade-level           somewhat new to teaching classically… the
    and department meetings, and multiple campus-                 way the course was outlined honed in on the
    specific faculty meetings. These events focus on               fundamental ideas behind solid, effective
    teacher training by outside guests and a host of                        teaching. I’m so thankful…
    internal training sessions by CDA faculty and staff.            – CDA faculty member commenting on
    Recently we have hosted such leading lights in the
                                                                    the provisional level certification course
    classical education movement as Christopher Perrin,
                                                                          in the Seven Laws of Teaching
    Andrew Kern, and Grant Horner. This summer we will
    have a two-day workshop in math instruction from            In addition to our district training and certification
    The Number Lab in Austin and our literature faculty         programs, we also encourage our faculty to
    will work on their Socratic discussion technique with       continue their formal education by pursuing an
    Adam Andrews from the Center for Lit.                       advanced degree. CDA reimburses up to 75% of the
                                                                tuition for approved graduate degree programs.
    Two years ago, we launched our own Classical
                                                                Currently, several CDA faculty and staff are working
    Educators Certification Program. Since our methods
                                                                on Master’s Degrees in classical education, history,
    (how we teach) and goals (why we teach) are different
                                                                English, and theology.
    from our public-school counterparts, it is important
    to develop and deepen our understanding of classical        CDA faculty are busy with their teaching duties,
    education. Our multi-year certification program             family life, and church life, but they still make time
    includes required courses in classical pedagogy,            to continue learning and growing as ethical servant-
    summer conference attendance, the reading of                leaders and wise thinkers. Their hard work will
    important books, and peer observations. More than           continue to bear fruit for many years as they seek to
    eighty faculty and staff members have completed the         cultivate wisdom and virtue in their students.

6
A Classical Core Latin, A Pillar of Classical Education-cover story
Why Latin?               Becoming Detectives of the Word
                                                                                                    by Robert Terry

                                    This familiar detective story trope can be compared to the work of the Latin student.
                                    Latin is one of the best disciplines to hone the intellectual virtues of attention,
A murder has been committed.
                                    patience, memory, judgment, and perseverance. Students must engage with deep
The hasty and bumbling police
                                    attention and wait before they make an interpretation until every piece of evidence
chief arrives at the scene. He      has been gathered, delaying judgment until the last moment. Students who make
quickly assesses the visible        guesses in translation are like the bumbling detective who sends the wrong suspect
evidence, walks over the crime      to the gallows.
scene, and conducts interviews
                                    Latin is also an education in the trivium arts. These arts of human language foster
with both the witnesses and the
                                    a deep understanding of the meaning and use of words. The development of the
suspects. Conclusions are drawn.    complete student depends on aptitude in the trivium and the cultivation of the
Arrests are made.                   intellectual virtues.
Now, onto the scene comes           But there are additional benefits to Latin. Latin may be the best way to learn English
the master detective, be he         grammar. Latin provides a royal road to learning other romance languages like
a Holmes, Wimsey, Poirot,           Spanish, French, and Italian. Latin provides one the keys to unlocking the meaning of
Spencer, or Marple. With a          many English words (nearly half of English vocabulary has Latin ancestors). Latin is
refined sense of attention to       still largely the language of science, medicine, law, government, logic, and theology.
detail and a deep understanding     Latin allows students to enter into the history and tradition of Western Civilization
                                    and the history of the Western Christian church.
of human behavior, he takes in
all the available evidence and      Finally, students who persevere in their Latin studies will get to taste the delight of
solves the crime with absolute      reading some of the great works of literature, philosophy, and history in their original
certainty. What seemed obvious      language – once the mark of a truly educated human being.
at first glance was actually more   Many have also claimed that the study of Latin leads to higher SAT scores, and this is
subtle, and discerning the truth    likely true. One line of thinking is that this is caused by the increased language skills
took great skill.                   that Latin students develop. However, the truth is that Latin students are cultivating
                                    the intellectual virtues and the trivium arts in their studies. Indeed, the growing
                                    Latin student is becoming a detective of the word.

                                                                                                                         7
A Classical Core Latin, A Pillar of Classical Education-cover story
When our family relocated
                           from Dallas to Frisco, we left
                           behind a Montessori magnet
                           school where our daughters
                           had been thriving. We felt
                           called to explore options
                           beyond local public schools,
                           and that’s when we first
                           bumped into CDA—online.

                           Initially, I (Shannon) was
                           enthusiastic; Dad (Mark)
                           was less so. We attended
                           an informational meeting,
CORAM DEO ACADEMY FAMILY   and the presentation was

The
      Vowells
                           so persuasive that Mark
                           was ready to apply as soon
                           as we left! What he found
                           most compelling were the
                           pragmatic measurements
                           of student success. Our
                           long association with Gifted
                           and Talented programs
                           and magnet schools had
                           accustomed us to seeing
                           students with high test scores
                           and ability to excel; CDA
                           demonstrated that students
                           whose early test scores
                           were average could improve
                           dramatically over time. Those
                           results, in combination with
                           the vision for Christ-centered
                           excellence in curricula,
                           won us over.
A Classical Core Latin, A Pillar of Classical Education-cover story
Is there a particular insight about              Has CDA made a difference in your             We can be confident that our girls are
Christian, classical education which             family culture or schedule?                   hearing gospel truth from a variety of
led you to enroll?                                                                             different perspectives and in a variety of
                                                 Absolutely! I (Shannon) cherish home-
                                                                                               different voices.
When we found CDA, we had already been           school days with my girls. Sitting down
parenting a long time and had experienced        to lunch together twice a week during         We are thankful for an administration
educational models ranging from                  the work week gives me sweet touch            which prioritizes character formation.
standard public school to Montessori,            points with my girls, no matter how           We are thankful for rigorous standards;
an Arts magnet, a community-college/             busy afternoons may be. Also, having          in a culture of mediocrity and short-
high-school hybrid, and an all-boy Jesuit        Mondays at home has de-pressurized            cuts, CDA is a refreshing reminder that
high school. We’d seen benefits in each          Sunday evenings, allowing us all to enjoy     excellence never goes out of style.
setting. We’d also come to appreciate            church activities without stressing about
                                                                                               We are thankful for the house system,
that a good student can thrive in almost         tests, etc. the next morning. CDA’s model
                                                                                               which creates school spirit and a sense of
any environment, and a student bent              facilitates a peaceful balance in our
                                                                                               joy, fun, and friendly competition.
on mischief can cheat himself of an              family routines, which is unique in all our
education anywhere. However, the                 years of parenting.                           We are thankful for the sense of shared
classical model of education was new to                                                        mission—that, as a school community,
us... and it hit us as the most logical system   What impact has CDA’s collaborative           we are equipping the Church of the next
imaginable! The pedagogies described for         teaching style had on you as a parent?        generation to transform the world for
each age level resonated as specifically         I LOVE being involved in my girls’            Christ’s glory!
appropriate to us, based on the six kiddos       formation. Class assignments catalyze
we’d already raised when we encountered          meaningful conversations; persevering
                                                                                               What advice or insight would you give
CDA. Further, the complementarity of a
                                                                                               to a family who is curious about CDA?
                                                 through    those    hard  crunch-days
classical quest for “truth and beauty” and       builds resilience in both student and         I would encourage any family to attend
Christian catechesis excited us.                 parent—and also forges bonds of               an informational session—it made all the
                                                 “shared triumph.” Being involved in the       difference to us.
Why have you continued to reenroll?              day-in, day-out work gives me a deep          I would also encourage any family to
We continue to reenroll our daughters            understanding of where my daughters’          think big picture and long term. It may
because we are thrilled with what we see         strengths lie—as well as insight into         not feel like it when all your children
happening in their lives – intellectually,       which areas need more support.                are young, but childhood is fleeting. And
socially, and spiritually – through school.                                                    each of us only gets one childhood. So...
CDA represents the best of both Christian        What are the best and most
                                                 challenging parts of this collaborative       what matters to you? What truths and
community and academic excellence,                                                             experiences do you most want to shape
and that’s a combination we’ve never
                                                 journey with your child?
                                                                                               your child? Who do you want to have on
encountered anywhere else.                       The best parts of this collaborative          your team, contributing to your child’s
                                                 journey are the together-times. The most      formation and influencing his or her
What expectations did you have                   challenging parts of this collaborative
prior to enrolling? Did those change                                                           worldview and sense of identity?
                                                 journey are also the together-times.
after becoming a part of the CDA                                                               A decision to enroll at CDA is a decision to
community?                                       Making memories together and learning         invest many hours of at-home teaching,
                                                 together are truly delightful. Enforcing      mentoring, and cheerleading that would
Our expectations prior to enrollment
                                                 deadlines    and     holding    students      otherwise be hours free for other pursuits.
primarily      focused    on    intellectual
                                                 accountable are not.                          But as a mother with grown children, I
formation. We were excited for our
girls to be shaped by good books and             But at root, these are truths about           can testify that I do not regret any time
Christ-centered teaching. Those initial          parenting which exist no matter what          spent with them during their growing up
expectations have been exceeded, and we          the school setting—they are simply            years. And I am deeply grateful for the
have been dazzled by other, unanticipated        amplified by the collaborative model.         greater quantity – and quality – of time
sources of blessing: athletic opportunities,                                                   with my CDA students.
                                                 What elements of CDA make you
musical opportunities, and peer groups
                                                 thankful?
who have blessed our girls with wonderful
friendships (and supported them through          We are thankful for the common
the loss of three grandparents).                 worldview held by all the teachers.

                                                                                                                                       9
A Classical Core Latin, A Pillar of Classical Education-cover story
Michele
     Howard
     GRAMMAR SCHOOL PRINCIPAL, DALLAS CAMPUS

10
and collaborative school that would           In 2009 I joined the faculty of the Dallas
                                             incorporate sound biblical doctrine that      campus as the 3rd grade teacher. The
“Children ought to love                      supported what we were teaching in our        Lord gave me a passion to teach from a
                                             home. Additionally, CDA would tailor          young age, and I truly enjoyed watching
the Lord Jesus Christ                        instruction for each age-related stage        the children grow from August to May
                                             of learning. However, the collaborative       as we discovered new concepts together.
above all things in the                      part of Coram Deo Academy is what             I also enjoyed getting to collaborate and
                                             drew us in immediately. As a mom, I           encourage parents as they worked at
world.” These were the                       wanted to be a part of Will’s education       home with their children. Furthermore,

words of theologian                          but knew that with 2 younger ones,            working with other godly men and women
                                             trying to navigate curriculum decisions       who are on a mission at CDA was such a
Jonathan Edwards in                          would be time-consuming and difficult.        gift. We are dedicated to our mission–
                                             I also knew that I needed accountability      striving to train ethical servant-leaders
a children’s sermon                          for completing material on time because       and wise thinkers who will shape culture
                                             I’m the kind of mom who would have            for the glory of God.
in 1740. As parents,                         a school holiday at the drop of a hat.
                                                                                           In addition to teaching 3rd grade, I
                                             After much prayer, Will started school
                                                                                           joined the Admissions team in 2018. I
pointing our children                        at CDA Carrollton that year, and we felt
                                                                                           was thrilled to meet with prospective
                                             incredibly blessed to have found it.
to the truth, goodness,                      During that year we learned there were a
                                                                                           families and share my love for our
                                                                                           school. God was using that to prepare
and beauty of our loving                     few families who were trying to start a       me for the next role, Grammar School
                                             Dallas campus, and in 2006 we opened that     Principal. Rev. Jon Jordan and I moved
Savior is our highest                        campus with 25 families. Eventually, our      into our new roles together with a new
                                             other two boys began school at CDA. We        team in the Summer of 2019.
calling. Partnering with                     loved being home for 2 days and on campus
                                                                                           Rev. Jordan has been such a gift to work
                                             for 2 or 3 days. We have sweet memories
                                                                                           with along with our staff in Dallas and
Coram Deo Academy                            of doing schoolwork in PJs, picnics in the
                                                                                           across the district. It has been quite a ride
                                             backyard, reading literature in the tree
gave my family a                             fort, and field trips with friends.
                                                                                           to learn a new role during a pandemic,
                                                                                           but the leadership of CDA has taught me
beautiful curriculum and                     I knew exactly what the boys were learning    so much. Sharing the love of Christ and
                                             in the classroom by reinforcing it at home,   discipling families is a passion of mine.
time to shape our boys’                      and I got to celebrate the milestones         This summer I am thrilled to be starting
                                             with them. Math facts, reading, history       my master’s program at Gordon College
hearts for Christ.                           timelines…I had a part in my boys’            in Leadership for Classical Christian
                                             learning, and all of these included a         Schools. It is an exciting time to be part of
                                             Christian worldview. As the boys grew         the Dallas campus as more families join
                                             older, it was encouraging to see them own     us to educate their children.
                                             their education. They were blossoming into
                                                                                           The Lord has used CDA in so many
In 2005, my husband, Rick, and I began       young men, and we enjoyed conversations
looking for a school for our oldest child,   about their studies as a family. However,     ways to bless our family. I am
Will. In addition to Will, we also had 2     not all days were easy. At times there were   incredibly humbled and grateful for
younger boys (Ben and Ryan) who were         tears, frustration, defiance, and so on.      the opportunity to serve the Dallas
2 and 3 at that time. We were blessed to     There was beauty in those times, however.
                                                                                           campus. May the Lord continue to
be living in a city with many options,       I wouldn’t trade the opportunities I had
but our hearts were drawn towards
                                                                                           bless our efforts at CDA, and may He
                                             as a mom to shepherd the hearts of our
something other than a 5 day traditional     boys, and for the Lord to convict me and      bless the efforts of our families as we
school. We attended an information           show me my areas of growth. Those were        show our children the love of Christ.
meeting for CDA and were excited to          priceless! God was doing work in their
learn about this classical, Christian,       heart and mine at the same time.

                                                                                                                                    11
200+ area churches represented by the
                                                                                 students of CDA
                                                                                 49% of the Class of 2021 volunteer in
                                                                                 their church or community, and
     Collin County ‘21 Class Verse                                               47% have been on a mission
                                                                                 trip during their time in rhetoric school
     “Finally, brothers, rejoice. Aim for restoration, comfort one another,
     agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will
     be with you.” ~ 2 Corinthians 13:11 ESV                                     College-Bound
                                                                                 Class of 2021 seniors were accepted
                                                                                 to 399 different colleges. They will be
                                                                                 attending 35 different colleges across
     Flower Mound ‘21 Class Verse                                                the country this fall.
     “3Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering
     produces endurance, 4and endurance produces character, and
     character produces hope.” ~ Romans 5:3-4 ESV                                A Love for Learning
                                                                                 Classical education progresses
                                                                                 through the grammar, logic (dialectic),
Our Faculty, Staff, & CDA Parents entirely composed of professing                and rhetoric stages of learning with the
                                                                                 ultimate goal being “philosophia,”
     Christians adhering to the tenets of The Nicene Creed
                                                                                 a love of wisdom.

12
Effective Christian, Classical, & Collabor ative

Education Works

                                                                                                             Five 2021 Collegiate Athletes
                                                              CDA National Merit 2021
                                                                                                           4 NCAA Athletes & 1 NAIA Athlete
                                                              2 National Merit Finalists
    Class Accolades                                           7 Commended Students
    13 offered scholarships of at least                          1 Hispanic Scholar
                                                                                                         $10,192,768 in scholarships was
    $100,000 with 4 accepting
                                                                                                         offered to the Class of 2021—an
    45 students accepting Presidential or
                                                                                                         average of $114,000 per graduate—
    Provost scholarships
                                                       Of the high school students who took              with $1,411,959 accepted.
    85 percent of seniors accepted to their
    first-choice college                               AP tests in the last 5 years, CDA had an
    12 accepted to the Honors College at               10 available AP Courses
    the school they’re attending                       3 required for graduation.                        24% Attending Out-of-State Colleges
                                                       In the last 5 years, all Texas                    17% Attending Christian Colleges
                                                       students had a 49% pass rate.                     35% Pursuing STEM Degrees
                                                       the Nat’l pass rate is 60%                            (Entire Class)
    89 graduates in the Class of 2021                                                                    35% Pursuing STEM Degrees
                                                       82% AP PASS RATE
    64 from the Flower Mound campus                                                                          (Female Graduates)
    25 from the Collin County campus                   7 dual credit courses – credit through
                                                                                                         17% Pursuing Business-related
    798 total graduates since 2002                     Colorado Christian University
                                                                                                             Degrees

          Our students participate and compete in a variety of athletic programs, performing arts, speech and debate, visual arts, and more.

 All details correct as of April 2021
                                                                                                                                               13
Community
                        Service
                                                                               BY
                                                                               Kennedy
                                                                               Thornton

                            AT

                                 A     mid the challenges presented
                                       through this past year, and even in
                                 this new year, there has been such an
                                 encouraging display of generosity and
                                 humility as Coram Deo Academy students
                                 and families have stepped up to be sowers
                                 in the community. Several of our families
                                 have done so by volunteering their time
                                 and resources at GRACE.
                                 GRACE is a nonprofit agency in Grapevine that provides social
                                 services (food, clothing, shelter, financial, etc.) to individuals and
                                 families in the community who are going through a crisis, with
                                 the goal of helping them to become self-sufficient again. Several
                                 CDA families have been a part of GRACE’s mission by consistently
                                 serving at GRACE over the last several years, including this past
                                 year during the pandemic.
                                 The Kofink family (Flower Mound Campus) has been serving with
                                 GRACE for about six years. Each year, Ken and Debbie Kofink,
                                 along with their two children, Brendon (12th grade) and Danielle
                                 (10th grade), participate in food distribution for Thanksgiving
                                 and Christmas. This event is set up as an outdoor drive-thru for
PHOTO BY CL AY BANKS

                                 families where volunteers greet them and load food into their
                                 car. “GRACE has an excellent model of building up, coming along
                                 side, and providing resources to get those in need on their feet
                                 and on their way,” Debbie said. “It serves the community in a
                                 mighty way.”

                       14
Debbie also participates in the Christmas Cottage at GRACE,            and resale stores. CDA families also host drives and collections
which is set up as a shopping experience for parents. Parents          throughout the year to bring in donated goods that GRACE
receive everything they need for a blessed Christmas, including        families need.
batteries for electronic toys and wrapping paper. “The GRACE
                                                                       Coram Deo Academy’s mission is to train ethical servant-leaders
families are so sweet and gracious,” Debbie said. “It is a really a
                                                                       and wise thinkers who will shape culture for the glory of God.
pleasure to be able to interact with them. I believe our outreach,
                                                                       Stories like this show how God is working through CDA students
along with all the services GRACE offers, helps to minister to the
                                                                       and families to carry out this mission. “CDA is an example of
families with hope and kindness, relieving them of the burden of
                                                                       sowing into others, which greatly impacts our children’s lives to
some of the seasonal expenses we can so easily take for granted.”
                                                                       become sowers themselves,” Debbie said. “I want my kids to take
For the Kofinks, serving at GRACE is a family experience. Debbie       away that feeling of blessing [through serving] and to remember
shares, “My sister, Tonia Casper, is very involved in this ministry,   to be grateful. I hope they have a God-given desire to serve others
and she [originally] invited us [to serve]. We go year after year      their whole lives.”
because it is a gift to give to others, and we are frequently joined
                                                                       Tonia adds, “We are thankful and blessed to know that as we
by other CDA friends.”
                                                                       have sought to raise the girls to be fully committed followers and
Fred and Tonia Casper, with their two daughters, Isabel (12th          servant-leaders of Christ, CDA has been a partner with us during
grade, Flower Mound campus) and Madelyn (11th grade, Flower            these past 13 years. Our hope is that we, our daughters, and those
Mound campus) have been serving at GRACE for about 7 years.            who serve with them will continue to be taught how to serve
“We’ve been involved with GRACE since the girls were little,”          willingly and often and be reminded of how blessed we are.”
Tonia said. “They have other programs that we have been
able to help with, such as Feed Our Kids in the summer, and a
                                                                       “It is not often that you find dedicated youth willing to
transitional housing program that is year-round. We just always
wanted the girls to be active serving others as Christ would.”         serve the community, but CDA students certainly are,”
CDA’s presence at GRACE through the families that serve there          says Lara Sundell. “Thank you all so much for your
has made a significant impact on the organization. Lara Sundell,       continued support of the GRACE mission and your desire
Director of Community Engagement at GRACE for the last 8 years,        to help our neighbors in need!”
said, “I always hear outstanding feedback from site managers
following a CDA service day. Everyone always comes with an ‘all
hands on deck’ mentality and is fully ready to get the job done!”
                                                                         For more information on how you can contribute to the mission
According to Lara, CDA students and families volunteer at many           of GRACE, visit their website at www.GraceGrapevine.org.
GRACE locations, including the donation center, food pantry,

                                                                                                                                         15
Save the Date
       Black-Tie Gala

           Announcing 2021 Speaker

          nick vujicic
            Saturday, December 4, 2021
            The Gaylord Texan Resort
                 Grapevine, Texas

           Scan to watch an inspiring video
              or to sign up to be notified
             when VIP tickets are released.

             Or visit CDAGala.com/Video.

16
“Meaning and
                                                                                 purpose do not
                                                                                come from what
                                                                                 a test tells you.
                                                                                    Meaning and
                                                                                    purpose come
                                                                                  from how God
                                                                                    created you.”
                                                                                      - Tim Tebow
                                                                                      2020 Speaker

 “It’s so special to sit around the table with our CDA family and share a delicious meal while being
encouraged by a great speaker… it’s all for such a good cause: raising money for our kids to continue
 to receive the best education around. We are doing life with like-minded people as our kids are not
     only classically educated, but also learning to be ethical servant-leaders and wise thinkers.”
                              - Shannon Burton, CDA Parent

   Life Without Limbs founder, Nick Vujicic, was born without arms or legs but
   was given the strength by God to surmount countless challenges and obstacles.
    This powerhouse presenter shares his personal experience of the relentless
               hope and love of God with millions all over the globe
       As a CDA parent, Nick Vujicic will inspire our school community as we
           gather together at one of our most memorable events of the year
                    to support the mission of Coram Deo Academy.

                             CDAgala.COM
CDA’S STUDENT LIFE      SPRING 2021

         Congratulations,
         Class of 2021

                                                                                                     N
                                                                                                I TIO
                                                                                               D

                                                                                         1
                                                                                             TE

                                                                                        2
Training ethical servant-leaders & wise thinkers who                                   MEN

                                                                                      20
                                                                                      E
                                                                                    NC
                                                                               ME
will shape culture for the glory of God
                                                                              M
                                                                            CO
Stuti Grace                                        Claire Elizabeth
                      Mehta                                               Campbell
              Collin County Valedictorian                              Collin County Salutatorian

    College Attending: University of Texas                   College Attending: Texas A&M University
    Activities while in Rhetoric School: Symphonic           Activities while in Rhetoric School: Dance, Drama,
    Band (Flute), Piano, Worship Band at Gateway Youth       Youth Group, House of Newton Chaplain, Senior Class
    (Keyboard), Varsity Co-ed and Girls Soccer, Math and     Vice President, VBS leader, Camp Counselor
    Science Tutor, Texas Children’s Hospital Volunteer,
    Sunday School and VBS Volunteer (Gateway Church,         How has CDA prepared you for the future?
    Sugar Creek Baptist Church)                              The future is a daunting road ahead, but CDA has
                                                             prepared me well both academically and spiritually.
    How have you grown in your relationship with
                                                             Through the courses I have taken at CDA, I have
    Christ during your time at CDA?
                                                             been able to develop my critical thinking and
    The role of God in our lives is often compared to        time management skills, as well as learn to write
    that of an umbrella: a safeguard amidst the troubles     and speak effectively and clearly. These things are
    life rains down. But, while many Christians are          vastly important to both my college and future
    eager to grab the umbrella during the storm, many        career. I will not be scrambling to achieve these
    tend to forget it on days of sunshine. In high school    traits, as I will already possess them. Spiritually,
    especially, CDA has taught me to keep my umbrella        CDA has prepared me for the future by giving me a
    with me and dwell in the presence of God, not just       firm foundation for my faith. Because of CDA, I not
    during the rain but especially when the sun is out       only know what I believe, but I know how to defend
    and life is going well. Even when I feel proud of my     it. As I go into college and encounter a flood of new
    accomplishments and comfortable in my current            ideas and opinions, that foundation will be crucial
    situation, CDA has urged me time and time again to       in keeping me strong in my faith.
    cling tightly to God’s providence. In doing so, I have
    learned to always keep my relationship with God a
    priority in my life, rain or shine.

2
Madeline Brooke                                             Owen Andrew
             Belknap                                                     Gerth
         Flower Mound Valedictorian                                Flower Mound Salutatorian

College Attending: Rice University                        College Attending: Hillsdale College
Activities while in Rhetoric School: Speech &             Activities while in Rhetoric School: House of
Debate Team, House of Wright President, House of          Wallace, Symphonic Band, Jazz Band, Pep Band, Football
Wright Vice President, Alfred Cup Debate Team Captain,
Teacher’s Aide for Scientific Explorations Class, Girls   How has CDA prepared you for the future?
Mentor Group Co-Leader, Yell Leader, Academic Tutor       More than teaching me how to get As in my classes,
                                                          CDA has taught me how to be a good person, and
How have you grown in your relationship with
                                                          of the two I think that the latter is infinitely more
Christ during your time at CDA
                                                          valuable. The classes were great for what they were,
CDA helped me focus on God’s sovereignty, both in         but there’s so much more to life than quadratic
and out of the classroom. Over the past years, I have     equations or the New Deal. Coram Deo has taught
seen how His perfect design exists in all subjects,       me to suck the marrow from life, to enjoy every last
from theology to chemistry to trigonometry. A             moment as though it were my last. Sometimes that
Christ-centered curriculum allowed me to grow             involves studying extra hard for an exam, but more
both academically and spiritually. Instead of seeing      often that means taking time out to eat dinner with
faith and science at odds, I recognize that God is the    your family or support your friends at a baseball
necessary foundation for mathematics and science.         game. One of those things might boost your GPA,
From daily devotions to prayers before major tests,       but the other nourishes your soul. That’s a trade-off
my teachers at CDA have reminded me to trust God          I am always willing to make.
through my daily tasks and struggles. I believe in the
importance of taking time out of my day to pray and
reflect on God’s hand over my life, whether it be as
I’m driving to school or preparing for competitive
speech rounds.

                                                                                                                   3
FLOWER MOUND

    Conner David Aiena                 Carrigan Sloan Berry           Holly Ann Burks              Katharine Anne Christiansen
     Dallas Baptist University          Texas A& M University          University of Arkansas       University of Arkansas
     Criminal Justice                   Nursing                        Exercise Science             Criminology & Sociology
                                                                                                    (Double Major)
    Pierce Edward Allen                Asher Michael Book             Faith Anna Burton
     North Central Texas College        LeTourneau University          Texas A&M University        Elizabeth Marie Cohen
     Communications                     Mechanical Engineering         Psychology                   Texas Tech University
                                                                                                    Nursing
    Taylor Michele Barge               Andie Lynn Brandenbuger        Eva Simone Campos
     Texas Woman’s University           Blinn College                  Belmont University          Logan Michael Conklin
     Nursing                            Leadership                     Journalism                   University of Oklahoma
                                                                                                    Health & Exercise Science
    Isabella Hazel Beiler              Macy Grace Brannan             Alexander Conley Cannon
      Embry-Riddle Aeronautical         Baylor University              Michigan State University   Grace Lee Dahlstrom
      University, Prescott              Nursing                        Economics                    Blinn College
      Global Intelligence & Security                                                                Nursing
                                       David Joseph Brownen           Isabel Grace Casper
    Madeline Brooke Belknap             University of North Texas       University of Arkansas     William Thomas Dean
     Rice University                    Finance, Minor in Economics     Communication Sciences &    University of Arkansas
     Chemistry, Pre-Medical Track                                       Disorders                   Physical Therapy

4
Kyla Grace Dorman                   Grantham Scott Humphrey             Zachary John Ledbetter              Isabelle Rosie Showers
       Texas Woman’s University            Instruction Education Foundation    Abilene Christian University         Baylor University
       Education                           Mechanical Apprenticeship           Undeclared                           Business
                                           Program
      John MacFarlane Downey                                                  Gage Rogers McCallum                Gabriella Grace Simms
       University of Texas at Arlington   Payton Allen Inderlied               Texas A&M University                Westcliff University
       Nursing                             Southwestern University             Engineering                         Business
                                           Kinesiology
      Samuel Alan Ea                                                          Emma Elizabeth Meyer                Jennifer Paige Stevens
       Vanderbilt University              Rachel Annalise Irizarry             Baylor University                   Texas A&M University
       Human Organizational                Texas Woman’s University            Psychology, Minor in Forensics      Biology
       Development                         Nursing
                                                                              Reece Cullen David Pack             Eva Claire Stewart
      Eryn Jianyi Feehery                 Nicholas Grant Jarvis                Midwestern State University         Savannah College of
       University of Alabama               Blinn College                       Business                            Art and Design
       Dance & Biology                     Business                                                                Fashion Design
                                                                              Anna Grace Pankovich
      Owen Andrew Gerth                   Alexandra Glenovna Johnston          University of Texas at Dallas      Ellen Catherine Tally
       Hillsdale College                   Lubbock Christian University        Neuroscience, Pre-Medical Track     University of Texas at San Antonio
       English                             Biochemistry                                                            Kinesiology & Movement Science
                                                                              Christian Scott Perry
      Erik Jacob Halldorson               Ethan Alexander Joseph               Wichita State University           Margaret Ann Thane
       University of Texas                 Texas A&M University                Aerospace Engineering               University of Texas
       Electrical Engineering              Materials Science                                                       Speech Pathology
                                                                              Stephanie Elizabeth Philip
      William Luke Hamm                   Ethan Andrew Kendall                 University of Texas at Dallas      Andrew Kent Walker
       Wheaton College                     Undecided                           Psychology                          University of Mississippi
       Mathematics & Computer Science                                                                              Mathematics, Minor in Computer
                                          Aubrey Jane King                    Cedar Evelyn Roach
                                                                                                                   Science
      Ellia Rebecca He                     Baylor University                   Southern Methodist University
       Undecided                           Business Management,                Political Science                  Janelle KayLee Wright
                                           Minor in Religion                                                       Texas A&M University at Galveston
      Emma Kay Henry                                                          Aidan Christopher Saucedo
                                                                                                                   Ocean Engineering
       Texas A&M University               Brendon Jessie Kofink                Benedictine College
       Business Administration             Baylor University                   Engineering                        Lily Claire Yaro
                                           Computer Science                                                        Abilene Christian University
      Jackson Dale Herrington                                                 Anneke Grace Schober
                                                                                                                   Digital Entertainment Technologies
       Wheaton College                    Olivia Faith Kubala                  Kansas State University
       Communications                      University of Oklahoma              Interior Design
                                           Business & Finance
      Amber Grace Holdridge                                                   Jackson Howard Shahan
       Texas Tech University              Joshua Collins Ledbetter             University of Texas at Arlington
       Business                            Abilene Christian University        Information Technology                  summa cum laude
                                           Undeclared
      Reid Walker Homer                                                       William Joseph Shegon                    magna cum laude
       Undecided                                                               Austin College
       History                                                                 Pre-Medical Studies                     cum laude

All details correct as of April 2021
                                                                                                                                                    5
COLLIN COUNTY

    Trey Daniel Bergstrom            Gabriel Isaac Ganter                Petra Shea March           Paul Edward Sawyers
     Belmont University               University of Texas at Dallas       University of Dallas       Texas Tech University
     Business                         History                             English & Literature       Mathematics & Computer Science
    Sydney Katherine Bird            Petra Hansen Halawa                 Stuti Grace Mehta          Joseph David Scroggins
     University of Texas at Dallas    Abilene Christian University        University of Texas        Texas A&M University
     Criminology                      Agribusiness                        Biomedical Engineering     Electrical Engineering
    Claire Elizabeth Campbell        Jordan Campbell Hurst               Grace Lynn Miles           Mason Josiah Sonju
     Texas A&M University             Texas Tech University               Texas A&M University       Undecided
     International Studies            Creative Writing & Screenwriting    Pre-Law Studies
                                                                                                    Taylor Mitchell Welch
    Alaina Catherine Christiansen    Jenna Leigh Jones                   Reid Benjamin Miles         University of Oklahoma
     Arkansas Tech University         Haverford College                   Texas A&M University       Mechanical Engineering
     Environmental Science            Geology & Mathematics               Aerospace Engineering
                                                                                                    Rachel Anne Young
    Bradley Charles Cole             Jefferson Taeksung Kim              Jillian Alexandra Nordin    Texas A&M University
     Gap Year/UK Ministry             University of Texas at Dallas       LeTourneau University      Biomedical Science
                                      Computer Science                    Aviation
    McKay Michelle Domen
     Texas A&M University            Timothy Mark Lee                    Jackson Matthew Redard
     Biomedical Sciences              Texas A&M University                Texas Tech University
                                      Business                            Pre-Medical Studies
    Adam Jack Dutka
     Oklahoma State University       Samuel Isaac Lin                                                   summa cum laude
     Finance, Real Estate Emphasis    Texas A&M University
                                      Computer Science                                                  magna cum laude

                                                                                                        cum laude

                                                                                                         All details correct as of April 2021
6
COMMENCEMENT SPEAKER

Tommy
Nelson
T   ommy Nelson has been on staff at Denton
    Bible Church for 44 years and has served
as Senior Pastor for 35 of those years.
One of four boys, Tommy grew up in Waco, Texas,
where he played football and baseball. Tommy was the
quarterback for the North Texas Mean Green, where he
was presented with the gospel by a member of Campus
Crusade for Christ. His involvement with CCC had a life-
changing effect on Tommy, including introducing him
to his future wife, Teresa. He holds a degree from UNT
and has a Master of Arts degree in Biblical Studies from
Dallas Theological Seminary.
Reverend Nelson received his calling to the ministry and
entered Dallas Theological Seminary in 1977 while he
was Associate Pastor at Denton Bible Church. In 1986, he
became Senior Pastor, overseeing multiple teaching and
discipleship ministries. Tommy has taught over 150 Song
of Solomon Marriage Conferences nationwide, is featured
teacher for a number of video series, and is the author
of several books including the best-selling The Book of
Romance, A Life Well Lived: A Study of the Book of Ecclesiastes,
and Walking on Water When You Feel Like You’re Drowning.
He has also been a featured speaker for several national
ministries such as Focus on the Family, Josh McDowell,
Fellowship of Christian Athletes, and FamilyLife Today.
Tommy still travels as speaker but finds himself most
weekends in the pulpit of Denton Bible church teaching
his congregation.
Tommy married his best friend, Teresa, in 1972. They have two
sons, Benjamin and John Clark, who are both married and,
between them, have given Tommy and Teresa six grandchildren.

                                                            7
FINE ARTS
BAND
CHOIR
DRAMA
SPEECH
VISUAL ART                       the
VISUAL ART
Several CDA Rhetoric School students participated in the 5th Annual Truth Goodness     Thirteen CDA art students received top scores at the Texas VASE Regional
Beauty Art competition in Colleyville along with 11 Christian schools across Texas.    Competition and 19 entries were awarded regional medals among 1,300 entries
Our student work looked great hanging in the gallery space and represented CDA         across the North Texas region. Two of those CDA students advanced and medaled in
well! Twelve medals were awarded across all major categories with four taking 1st      the VASE State competition in San Marcos.
place, six in 2nd place and two in 3rd place.

A Slip In Time                          Son of Dragons                                Techno Rose                                       Inspired
Ava Grace Koele                         Ellia He                                      Lily Yaro                                         Ava Grace Koele
oil on canvas                           oil on canvas                                 ink and colored pencil on illustration board      oil on canvas
 2020 Runner Up:                          2021 Grand Prize In Painting:                2021 VASE State medalist                           2021 VASE State medalist
 ACCS Blakey Art Prize in Fine Arts†      ACCS Blakey Art Prize in Fine Arts†
 Award includes a $250 scholarship        This honor includes a $500 scholarship      †
                                                                                        The 2021 ACCS Blakey Art competition included work from 21 different classical
 2020 contest was virtual, and CDA        This work will be on view at the June       schools across the country. Each school is allowed to submit only one drawing and/or
 wants to acknowledge this honor          ACCS National Conference in Frisco          one painting to be judged.

SPEECH & DEBATE                             DRAMA — TAPPS
                                                                                                                       TAPPS DISTRICT II              TAPPS STATE
                                               CDA’s award-winning cast of Radium Girls
                                                                                                                       DIVISION I                     DIVISION II
                                                                                                                       CONTEST                        ONE ACT PLAY
                                                                                                                       The play won second            Radium Girls, placed
                                                                                                                       place                          fourth
                                                                                                                       All-Star Cast                  All-Star Cast
                                                                                                                       Brendon Kofink                 Lindsey Vosburg
                                                                                                                       Sam Ea
                                                                                                                                                      All-Star Crew
                                                                                                                       Eva Campos
                                                                                                                                                      Lauren Smith
                                                                                                                       Outstanding Crew
                                                                                                                                                      Honorable Mention
                                                                                                                       Lauren Smith
                                                                                                                                                      All-Star Cast
                                                                                                                       Honorable Mention              Eva Campos
                                                                                                                       All-Star Cast                  Brendon Kofink
                                                                                                                       Matthew Kline
CDA Junior, JB Lilley was a                                                                                            Lindsey Vosburg                The play, judged by
regional qualifier for the American                                                                                                                   three critic judges, was
Legion speaking contest in                                                                                                                            one of eight shows
February. He attended the Texas                                                                left:                                                  that performed in
Forensic Speech Association                                                                    Brendon Kofink                                         the beautiful Cailloux
State Tournament in March                                                                      and Greta Thane                                        Theatre in Kerrville
and competed with over 100                                                                     in Radium Girls                                        during the two-day
senators from all over the state                                                                                                                      state championship.
in Congressional Debate. He also
placed fourth in the National
Speech and Debate Association
national qualifying tournament in
April this year.
                                                                                                                                ACCS – Association of Classical Christian Schools
                                                                                                                                            VASE – Visual Arts Scholastic Event
  8
BAND – TPSMEA
Eleven CDA Symphonic Band students made the TPSMEA All-State Honor Band and/or Jazz Band, and                          SOLO & ENSEMBLE
eighteen CDA Symphonic Band students made the TPSMEA All-Region Honor Band!
                                                                                                                       Band TPSMEA Solo and Ensemble contest took
CDA had the largest number of students from any school in our region for the Region Honor Band and the third           place March 5, and it was a great day for CDA! The
largest combined number of students in the All-State Jazz Band and Concert Band Ensembles!                             judge remarked at how amazed he was with our
                                                                                                                       students! He genuinely enjoyed listening to and
ALL-STATE BAND                                               ALL-STATE JAZZ BAND                                       working with our students. We were fortunate to be
                                                                                                                       able to have Mr. Mickey Owens judge our contest.
David Brownen                  Tessa Linebarger              Owen Gerth                   Ethan Kendall                Mr. Owens is a past president of TPSMEA and plays
 6th chair tuba                 2nd chair tenor               2nd chair alto sax           1st chair trombone          professionally with the Dallas Winds. We are so
Lauren Joseph                   saxophone                                                                              pleased to have had this live experience with a well-
 3rd chair flute               Ethan Joseph*                 HIGH SCHOOL ALL-REGION HONOR BAND                         renowned member of TPSMEA. In addition to the
Joanna Lee**                    1st chair trumpet                                                                      soloists listed below, CDA had ten small ensembles
 4th chair clarinet            Brendon Kofink**              Lauren Joseph                Cadi Duhon                   advance to state.
Nolan Marshall                  6th chair trumpet            Kirsten Browne               Genny Covert
 2nd chair bassoon             Genny Covert                  Joanna Lee                   Aaron Younger                Levi Robertson               Danielle Kofink
Owen Gerth                      6th chair French horn        Nolan Marshall*              Timothy Lee                  Lauren Joseph                Jeremy Sy
 4th chair alto                Timothy Lee                   Jon Duhon                    David Brownen                McKell Richardson            Tessa Linebarger
 saxophone; 3-year              3rd chair euphonium          Owen Gerth                   Josh Marshall                Lindsey Anderson             Noah Kulle
 All-State (with 2 of                                        Tessa Linebarger*            Rachel Irizarry              Kirsten Browne               Genny Covert
 those years qualifying        * 5-year qualifier            Noah Kulle                    (1st alternate)             Joanna Lee                   Ethan Joseph
 for both jazz band and        **4-year qualifier            Ethan Joseph*                McKell Richardson            Nolan Marshall               Timothy Lee
 concert band); 3 years                                      Brendon Kofink                (2nd alternate)             Owen Gerth                   Audrey Salladin
 jazz band; 2 years                                          Lana Linebarger
                                                                                          *1st chair placement
 concert band                                                Avery Meazell

CHOIR
                                                                                                                 Arte Cantare Choir
SOLO AND ENSEMBLE                                            CHOIR CONTEST
The Coram Deo Academy Flower Mound and Collin                The two top choirs from Flower Mound and
County choir students participated in Solo and               Collin County participated in Choir Contest
Ensemble Contest on March 5th. The students sang             on April 16th. Each choir sang three songs
challenging repertoire and were judged based on              from the UIL Prescribed list and were judged
accuracy, vocal technique, and musicianship. These           by DeWayne McCollough, a long term TAPPS
gifted students earned a total of 125 first division         adjudicator. Both choirs received top honors!
medals!
                                                             Electus Vox: Members: Louise Adams, Conner
                                                             Aiena, Jonathan Akins, Abby Branch, Beth
TPSMEA ALL REGION CHOIR                                      Burton, Ianna Chan, Ryan Eastabrook, Maggie
Carson Brower                  Grace Miles                   Fogle, Aidan Fort, Ellia He, Ruthie Irizarry,
Everett Colby                  Vivanne Periquet              Matthew Kline, Ava Grace Koele, Danielle
Ellia He                       Elizabeth Perrone             Kofink, Tessa Linebarger, Ian Mitchell, Savanna
Caroline Kiser                 Bethany Sanders               Morris, Rachel Newland, Serenity Pack,
Georgia Kiser                  Joseph Scroggins              Elizabeth Perrone, Ashlyn Richard, Caden
Tessa Linebarger               Maggie Vowell                 Rogers, Emma Rogers, Bethany Sanders,
Macy Meazell                   Michelle Vytopil              Lindsey Vosburg, Michelle Vytopil

                                                             Arte Cantare Members: Trey Bergstrom, Peyton
TPSMEA ALL STATE CHOIR                                       Chaney, Everett Colby, Petra Halawa, Jenna
Everett Colby                                                Jones, J.T. Kim, Caroline Kiser, Kati Langille,
Joseph Scroggins                                             Samuel Lin, Macy Meazell, Grace Miles, Reid
                                                             Miles, Vivianne Periquet, Daniel Sawyers, Paul
                                                             Sawyers, Joseph Scroggins, Lily Turner, Maggie
                                                             Vowell, Katherine Whitmer, Maddie Wilmotte

                                                                                                                 Electus Vox Choir
TPSMEA – Texas Private School Music Educators Association
TAPPS – Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools
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