Welcome to 2024-2025 at the Academy for GOD
Welcome to the Academy for GOD for the 2024-2025 school year! With our 12th year ahead, we are pleased to announce some new developments that promise to make this school year even more special. This year marks a significant milestone for us, as we have recently attained accreditation with Cognia and gained approval to become an ESA school in the state of Tennessee. This means that we can now offer educational savings accounts, providing students the opportunity to attend private school with greater financial flexibility.
We continue to provide a diverse range of educational programs to meet the needs of our students and families. Whether you are interested in our campus or homeschool programs, we offer something for everyone. Our hybrid options allow for a blend of on-campus and home learning, while our umbrella services provide support for families choosing to homeschool independently. Additionally, our remote learning program ensures that students can receive a high-quality education regardless of their location or context.
We understand that our students are coming back from a variety of summer experiences. From family vacations to mission trips and service opportunities, each student brings unique experiences and perspectives into the new school year. To help ease the transition from summer break to the academic year, we dedicate the first two weeks back to acclimating students into the school environment. These initial weeks are crucial for setting a positive tone for the rest of the semester and the entire school year.
Parents, here are some ways to help your student prepare for a successful start to the new school year:
1. Establish a Routine: Start reintroducing a school-day routine a few days before school begins. This helps students adjust their sleep schedules and get back into the habit of structured days.
2. Set Goals: Encourage your student to set academic and personal goals for the year. Whether it's improving grades, making new friends, or participating in extracurricular activities, having clear goals can motivate and guide them (and you!).
3. Reflect on Summer Experiences: Take some time to discuss what your student learned or experienced over the summer. This reflection can help them integrate those experiences into their school life.
4. Get Involved: Encourage your student to explore the various extracurricular activities and clubs offered at the Academy for GOD. Participation in these activities can enhance their school experience and foster a sense of community.
5. Stay Connected: Open lines of communication with teachers, administrators, and fellow parents. Staying connected will help you stay informed and engaged in your student's education.
As we begin this new school year, we are excited to see the growth and achievements that will come. The Academy for GOD is committed to providing a nurturing and Christ-centered environment where students can thrive academically, spiritually, and socially. Let's make this year the best one yet!
Welcome back, and here's to a fantastic school year!
Summer Mission Success with SLAM
This summer, junior high and high school students from the Academy participated in a mission week with Students Living a Mission. The theme, REK’NIZE, drawn from Colossians 3:1-3, informed the sermons by speakers for the week’s Derek Bargatze and Gregg Garner. Students were challenged to consider their identity in Christ (who they are) and how God is asking them to seek things from above (where they’re at).
Each day began with worship and prayer before heading out to service projects all around the Nashville area. In the evenings, students shared meals together and participated in an evening session before heading to focus groups. These moments of reflection and connection helped them process the day’s mission work, fostering a deeper understanding of their faith.
The students dedicated their time to serving local nonprofits and ministries across Nashville including Project CURE, The Bridge, kids’ day camps, and visiting homes of the elderly. They worked without complaint, showcasing a spirit of service by sorting donations, organizing food drives, and assisting with community outreach programs. The following testimonies were shared by some of our team leaders and chaperones:
A Memorable Service Project for Our 7th Graders!
BY KK NADEAU
Our 7th graders took part in a truly special service project at the Madison Church of Christ Garden, a wonderful place dedicated to serving the homeless and elderly daily. Last year, this garden produced over 2,000 lbs of food to help those in need. 🌿🥕
On this cool morning under a sycamore tree, we were greeted by Nature Nate, who eagerly shared his inspiring story of faith and resilience. As we picked onions and potatoes, the students were enthusiastic about the mystery of how many potatoes they’d find under each plant. Nate taught us all about hydroponic gardening using fish poop (which the boys found especially fascinating), rainwater, and limestone. His resourcefulness and heart for teaching shone through every moment. 🌱💧
Nate's story of Obedience, Endurance, and Humility in the Lord deeply touched us all. He shared his testimony which continually pointed to the Lord. We took time to lay hands on him and pray over him, as he is having knee replacement surgery soon. He expressed his gratitude to all the students for helping him do things that were painful for him. Service projects are at the core of our program, but it’s rare to meet someone who gives so much of themselves like Nate does. 🌟
One of the highlights of the day was when we worked together to plant 500 lbs of pumpkins! Each student played a crucial role in digging, measuring, and planting, and with 18 of us, we completed the task in just 45 minutes—a job that would normally take Nate seven hours! Nate’s praise for our teamwork and unity was a true honor, and he even told us the college students who help every summer could learn these lessons from us. 🎃👏
Special thanks to Fawn and Jason Teska, Quinn’s parents, who volunteered alongside us and heard similar compliments from others in the garden. We’ve been invited back in the Fall to help harvest all those pumpkins, and we can’t wait!
A Special Moment with Mr. Odero
BY AMANDA DAVIS
What a full day of service for our crew as we served at Dandridge Towers Apartments. We cleaned 10 apartments and visited with the residents. The people we served were elderly and cleaning for them was such a blessing as we heard them say over and over how helpful we were.
One apartment that touched my heart was that of Lukio Odero a former geograpy teacher from Kenya. He is 80 years old and has been here in the states for 2 years. He suffers from severe back pain at times. He LOVES the Lord and it blasted worship music as we cleaned. Through out he would say Mrs. Amanda “I can’t tell you how much you all are blessing me.” He loved talking with Levi and answering all of his questions.
We sang two songs, “Ni Wewe tu and Yesu Ni Wangu” that the kids have learned at school and Mr. Odero said he felt so at home after we sang with him. He continued to testify and prayed over our students. God’s spirit was with us.
Below I will post a clip of Mr. Odero testifying when he mentions about being new to this land I couldn’t help but think of this verse from Leviticus! Our kids lived out these God’s word today we are so proud of them. They were the hands and feet of Jesus.
33 “When a stranger sojourns with you in your land, you shall not do him wrong. 34 You shall treat the stranger who sojourns with you as the native among you, and you shall love him as yourself, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the Lord your God.
An Open Letter Regarding Cult Allegations
In 2021, our institution encountered an unjust challenge when a small hate group launched a campaign aimed at discrediting our college and ministry (GOD International), which has faithfully served communities through education, advocacy, and empowerment for over 25 years.
In a deliberate attempt to damage our reputation as valuable contributors to both the Nashville and global communities, a website and multiple social media accounts were launched under the misleading guise that G.O.D. Int’l is a cult, sometimes falsely claiming affiliation with our parent nonprofit, Global Outreach Developments International.
Dear Reader,
In 2021, our institution encountered an unjust challenge when a small hate group launched a campaign aimed at discrediting our school and ministry, which has faithfully served communities through education, advocacy, and empowerment for over 25 years.
The agenda of the hate group was to undermine our work of ministry and service to Jesus and label us as a cult. By using the internet as a platform to propagate their unfounded accusations, they were able to publish falsities believing our reputation would be maligned and in turn our ministry harmed.
In today’s digital age, it has become alarmingly easy for individuals or hate groups, regardless of their credibility, to publicly malign others. This wave of misinformation and falsehoods has not only distressed Christian families connected to our ministry but also placed an undue burden on Tennessee taxpayers, resulting in investigations that ultimately concluded with the dismissal of all charges due to a lack of evidence supporting the claims made by the hate group. This situation highlights the critical importance of discerning fact from fiction and remaining vigilant against baseless allegations that threaten both reputations and communities.
What You Should Know
Our PreK-12 school undergoes rigorous and routine evaluations by both state and national regulatory bodies that oversee higher education institutions and nonprofit organizations, ensuring our strict compliance with industry best practices.
Achieving accreditation or approval from these agencies requires meeting stringent accountability standards, which involve detailed documentation across hundreds of key areas. This process includes in-depth financial audits, comprehensive on-site evaluations, and presentations before panels of leading experts in Christian higher education. These measures affirm that our operations consistently uphold the highest levels of excellence, transparency, and integrity.
Our accrediting and regulatory agencies include:
The investigation and its impact on taxpayers
Despite our full compliance with all regulatory standards, an unwarranted government investigation was launched following baseless allegations made by the same individuals referenced earlier. This led to an intrusive examination of the GOD Int’l campus, involving a comprehensive review of financial records, health documentation, academic logs, and personal associations.
Among the unfounded accusations were claims directed at our Founder, Gregg Garner and wife, Tara Garner,, which were promptly dismissed as meritless by both the Nashville District Attorney and the courts. The Garners were fully vindicated, their records cleared, and the case definitively closed, with the judge ruling that it cannot be reopened.
The ordeal, driven by baseless accusations and sensationalized claims, led to the unnecessary expenditure of millions in taxpayer funds on unfounded legal challenges. Ultimately, the exhaustive scrutiny served only to reaffirm the integrity and exemplary standing of our school and ministry.
The Defamatory Website
In a deliberate attempt to damage our reputation as valuable contributors to both the Nashville and global communities, a website and multiple social media accounts were launched under the misleading guise that G.O.D. Int’l is a cult, sometimes falsely claiming affiliation with our parent nonprofit, Global Outreach Developments International. These platforms seek to undermine our work by using defamatory language, provocative, out-of-context imagery, and fear-mongering terms like “cult” or “high control group”—despite the site’s own written disclaimer admitting it does not present factual information.
Again, the site itself says it does not present factual information.
Like many online campaigns that spread falsehoods, this website relies on exaggerated claims and sensationalized assertions rather than credible evidence. It distorts ordinary religious practices such as prayer, worship, fellowship, and Bible study, falsely portraying them as methods of manipulation and mind control.
The site also promotes unfounded accusations from purported former members—sometimes fictitious characters created by the website’s administrators—focusing on the Academy’s Founder, absurdly labeling Gregg Garner as a “cult leader” and implying unhealthy control and a lack of accountability. This baseless claim neglects to consider the dedication and hard work of our leadership team of over 70 managers who administer various aspects of The Academy and ministry. It also overlooks the rigorous accountability imposed by regulatory bodies and accrediting agencies, and Garner’s well-established reputation as a leader who has been educating and empowering leaders and communities in ministry for nearly 30 years.
While Gregg Garner has played a pivotal role in the development of our PreK-12 school, his leadership has always been characterized by collaboration and team-building. He has effectively shared responsibilities with a knowledgeable faculty—who teach the majority of courses—a qualified administration that operates independently within their respective roles, passionate pastors and mentors who selflessly care for students, and a governing board that faithfully stewards the mission and vision of the organization. Since our school began in 2013, this dedicated team has worked joyfully to offer Christ-centered education to students of diverse ages, experiences, and backgrounds, solidifying our institution’s reputation for integrity and educational excellence, worldwide.
The Results
Despite the challenges of slander and attempts to damage our reputation, our institution has not only persevered, but continues to thrive and expand.
We are currently in the strongest financial position in our organization’s history. Recent enrollment numbers have reached record highs, reflecting the ever-growing trust and support from our community.
Additionally, we have achieved accreditation status with Cognia as of July 2024 and are recognized across the nation as a school that meets Cognia Performance Standards and maintains a commitment to continuous improvement.
This remarkable progress stands as a testament to God’s faithfulness and the steadfast commitment of our leadership and community.
What can you do?
In today’s digital age, where misinformation can easily spread, it is more important than ever to critically assess the sources of information we encounter. The accessibility of creating a website and publishing content means that false narratives—often driven by harmful agendas—can easily proliferate with the aim of damaging reputations. As Jesus taught, “You will recognize them by their fruits” (Luke 6:43-45). His followers are called to discern the truth by examining the outcomes and actions of individuals and organizations.
We invite anyone unfamiliar with our community to come and see the fruit of our work firsthand. We regularly host tours and campus visits for those interested in experiencing our community. In addition, our educational approach is discussed on our public school podcast, offering a transparent view of our teachings and day-to-day community life. These resources will give you a clearer understanding of our mission and the values we uphold. We are confident that you will find a community of thoughtful, Bible-loving, Jesus-following individuals dedicated to educating and nurturing the students entrusted to us.
Classroom Conversations Season One
Community Church for GOD (On Campus Church)
The Sermon Podcast (Podcast for On Campus Church)
FAQ
1.Who are these people who made the site?
The website operates under a veil of anonymity, referring to its creators as “the collective.” The so-called “testimonies” posted on the site are attributed to fictitious individuals, those who have admitted to dishonesty (but the site administrators won’t remove their comments), including parents of former Academy students.
Additionally, the website’s use of the term “member” is misleading and inconsistent with the language used by GOD Int’l —or by most organizations with membership structures. In reality, there are no genuine former members contributing to the site that we are aware of.
2. Who is behind the misinformation campaign against your institution?
The campaign is driven by anonymous individuals using fabricated or unverified testimonies to advance their agenda. The website creators remain anonymous and have been strategic in evading legal accountability.
3. Why don’t you engage directly with the website spreading misinformation?
The website operates under anonymity and censors any comments that challenge its narrative. As a result, we focus our efforts on engaging transparently with our community through open forums, social media, and personal conversations. We are also very productive with the wonderful things we get to do that bless our global community and serve the Lord.
4. Can’t you legally have the site taken down?
The website has been carefully structured to exploit legal protections and evade accountability. When faced with legal challenges, they promptly altered content to fall within the bounds of First Amendment rights. Additionally, they consistently back-date posts to conveniently fall outside the statute of limitations for damages. Once again, various comments including some from fictitious characters are inserted to further their agenda, reinforcing the site’s intent to mislead without accountability.
5. What steps does your institution take to ensure transparency and accountability in its operations?
In accordance with our authorizing and accrediting agencies, we conduct an annual audit through an independent third-party auditor. Our campus also receives regular visits from representatives within our ABHE network, ACSI, Cognia, as well as formal review teams, ensuring compliance with all standards for accreditation and re-authorization. Additionally, our events, sermons, conversations, and blogs are consistently made available online for public viewing, providing full transparency to anyone interested in our work and community life.
6. How can current Academy students, families, or alumni contribute to dispelling these lies?
We encourage you to share your experiences with others, with us personally, on social media, or through a Google review! The opposing website and social media platforms are closely monitored, and it is unlikely that they would approve comments that challenge their narrative. By sharing your stories, you can help provide an accurate and honest portrayal of our community.
7. What measures are in place to support students or others affected by this campaign?
We have hosted numerous public meetings and town hall events, inviting parents, students, and supporters to openly share their concerns and engage with us directly. For students and alumni facing familial challenges due to these claims, we offer pastoral care and support. Whenever possible, we have been blessed to mediate between affected parties, fostering deeper trust and strengthening relationships within our community.
8. What future plans does your institution have to continue serving and expanding its community impact?
As Bible-believing Christians, we recognize that we are not the only faith community to face this type of persecution. Our Lord instructs us to rejoice in such moments, understanding that these trials align us with His work throughout history (Luke 6:22). Looking forward, we remain steadfast in our commitment to expanding our impact and continue to grow as a beacon of education, service, and faith, dedicated to equipping future leaders.
Meet the Grads: Congratulations, Class of 2024!
The Academy's Class of 2024 has left a remarkable impact on our school and community. We're proud to celebrate them at this year's commencement ceremony, facilitated by Headmaster Gregg Garner, Principal Castro, and Vice Principal, Ms. Mathews.
On Saturday, May 25th, the Academy honored the achievements of this year’s ten seniors. Our commencement ceremony was a gathering of family, friends, teachers, and staff, all coming together to celebrate the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and growth.
The ceremony began with a processional that had the guests on their feet, cheering for our students as they entered the building. Principal Castro then welcomed everyone in attendance and introduced the students who would lead a few songs of worship. Then, Ms. Mathews spoke to the incredible achievements of the senior class, collectively, including numerous hours of missions and ministry, event coordination, mentorships, internships, and more that gave definition to their final year at the Academy.
This year, the Academy was proud to pronounce two valedictorians among our senior class. Both Ezekiel Nadeau and Luciana Muñoz achieved this esteemed honor and delivered remarkable speeches filled with gratitude, humble reflection, and faith-filled goals at they look into the future. Then, Academy Student Council President, Justice Garner, gave an inspirational speech acknowledging the leadership skills he has gained at the Academy and the investment poured into him by his teachers and coaches to make him into who is becoming as a child of God.
In the closing remarks, our Headmaster, Mr. Gregg Garner, highlighted the unique strengths and talents of the 2024 class, reminding everyone that this ceremony marks not just an end, but the beginning of a new and exciting journey. We’re proud to send these 10 students into their next season with the Lord and their communities of faith. Each one of them will offer incredible gifts to our world!
THANK YOU to Canaan Kagay and Details Nashville for sponsoring photography for this year’s commencement ceremony!
The Academy for GOD Class of 2024
Madyson Quinn Collie
Academy Hybrid Student, 2022-2024
Quinn was one of the Academy’s first remote learners following the covid pandemic. Shortly after, she joined our hybrid program and will graduate from the Academy’s homeschool umbrella program this month!
Quinn writes, “Something memorable I’ve gathered at the Academy is the abundance of love here that radiates throughout the school. So many people at the school have been impactful in my life, and I think I will carry that with me for a very long time. Something that the school and life has taught me is that we are set on the path that God has made for us and we have to relinquish control over our lives to be fully in the Lord‘s presence, and to be able to see the beauty in what He has planned.”
Following graduation, Quinn would love to travel, work, and explore creative endeavors, including trade school.
A scripture that Quinn holds to is Proverbs 19: 21 “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”
Tasha Andrews
Academy Student, 2021-2024
Since joining the Academy three years ago, Tasha has developed a reputation for being responsible, kind, and a hard worker. She does her absolute best with every assignment, and is diligent to manage responsibilities and meet deadlines. Her teachers value how humble Tasha has been in her learning; she is honest with what she has to offer, and reaches out to ask for feedback- a valuable life-long character quality!
Tasha has been an active athlete on our girls volleyball team, and participated in school mission trips. Something impressed upon Tasha during her time at the Academy is to remain thankful, even when going through hard times.
After graduation Tasha plans to attend college to pursue film and business, and begin making short films. A piece of advice she has for fellow students is to “use the day-to-day opportunities you have now to form deeper relationships with the people around you; don’t wait for times created by your teachers.”
A scripture that means a lot to Tasha comes from 2 Corinthians 5:7 “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”
Antonio Thomas
Academy Hybrid Student, 2018-2024
As a homeschool hybrid student at the Academy, Toni has been a consistent part of our Phoenix Athletics program in both basketball and soccer. Toni has had a positive impact on younger players and has always put his all into helping the team. Vice Principal, Mrs. Mathews testifies that, “Toni has a genuine heart of service.” For his senior capstone service project, he volunteered as an activities coordinator for the local boys and girls club. Toni said that the experience impacted him so much so that he wants to continue giving back to the next generation.
Students on our campus have describe Toni as kind and as an “includer” regardless of age. He is always looking out for others making sure they feel seen on our campus.
After graduation, Toni plans to attend community college. We’re so proud of you, Toni!
Sawyer Cole
Academy Student, 2018-2024
Since joining the Academy in 2018, Sawyer has had a positive presence and influence on our campus. He is a faithful friend and a hard worker whether he is in the classroom, practicing with his worship band, or playing soccer. Sawyer was part of the Phoenix soccer team, Chapel Leadership Team, worship band, and student mission trips.
One lesson that Sawyer is taking away from his experience at the Academy is that “learning to take correction will skyrocket your educational journey.” Following graduation, Sawyer plans to attend MTSU and major in music composition to develop in his ability to score films. He hopes to work with his friends from the Academy to create a film company and create quality films that give life and understanding to those who watch them. Sawyer says, “We hope to give a voice to those who don’t have one, and to be a light in darkness.”
Sawyer’s advice to younger Academy students is “Don’t be afraid of different. Embrace the new ways that God can speak to you, and dive into His Word. Create friendships that are Biblically rooted and infused with accountability.”
You’ve been such a wonderful student, Sawyer, and we wish you the best in your walk with the Lord!
Proverbs 16:9 “The heart of man plans his way, but the LORD establishes his steps.”
Ezekiel Nadeau
Academy Student, 2016-2024
Ezekiel has become a respected leader among the Academy student body: kind, respectful and considerate. Zeke works diligently at the task at hand whether it's a class project, a responsibility as student council treasurer, or a defender on the soccer field.
Following graduation, Zeke will participate in a summer internship program with @GODINTL then plans to attend the @instituteforgod to continue his biblical education.
In reflection on his time as an Academy student, Zeke writes, “Education takes time and is not something that I should try to speed through. Learning is a process that must be endured.” Zeke was a part of the Academy Student Council, Phoenix soccer, cross-country and basketball teams, and the Chapel Leadership Team.
Zeke’s advice for younger students is to “Develop the habit of time management early on so when you get older you won't get overwhelmed with the work that will come your way.”
We're proud of you, Zeke, and look forward to see you continue walking with the Lord!
Psalm 1:1-3
“Blessed is the man
who walks not in the counsel of the wicked,
nor stands in the way of sinners,
nor sits in the seat of scoffers;
2 but his delight is in the law of the Lord,
and on his law he meditates day and night.
3 He is like a tree
planted by streams of water
that yields its fruit in its season,
and its leaf does not wither.
In all that he does, he prospers.”
Justice Garner
Academy Student, 2013-2024
Justice has been an Academy student since we opened the door for our inaugural year in August 2013. As an integral leader among the student body, Justice participated in Chapel Leadership Team, Worship Band, Cross-Country, Basketball, Soccer, Chess Club, international student mission trips and served as President of the Student Council for his junior and senior years.
A memorable lesson that Justice is taking from his education at the Academy is that “we don’t use God to do what we want; God uses us to do what he wants.” Following graduation, Justice is participating in a summer internship program with @godintl and plans to attend the @instituteforgod in the fall. He hopes to continue making music and invest himself in studying the Bible.
Justice’s advice for upcoming Academy students is to stay in God’s Word. We’re so proud of him and the example he has set for our younger students. John 1 has been a passage that has impacted Justice throughout high school:
“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” - John 1:1-5
Jackson Kurtz
Academy Student, 2013-2024
Jackson was part of our 2013 inaugural class, and has consistently shown a motivation for learning and exploring new challenges. Jackson played on the Phoenix soccer team and taught an after-school music club for younger students. Another inspiring project Jackson completed was visiting a local assisted living facility to sing and play piano for the residents.
One piece of advice Jackson would offer to younger students is, “Don't trap learning within school, learn whenever you have the chance.” He has demonstrated this encouragement himself!
Following graduation, Jackson plans to attend Lipscomb University for filmmaking and film composing. He recently completed a documentary following our Phoenix soccer team as part of a senior project.
A scripture that Jackson strives to live by is, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” - Matthew 6:34
Luciana Muñoz
Academy Student, 2013-2024
Luciana is a bright light on our campus! She was part of our inaugural class at the Academy in 2013, and has excelled as a student since. Luci has played on the Phoenix cross-country, volleyball, and soccer teams, served as secretary on the student council, and participated in the chapel leadership team. Her input and hard work in each of these areas in a testimony to the character being produced in her.
Following graduation, Luci is participating in a summer internship program with @godintl and plans to attend the @instituteforgod in the fall. A most memorable lesson for Luci while at the Academy is how important learning the Bible is, and how it can guide her every decision in life. This is a truth we hope all our students take with them into their adulthood.
Luci’s advice to younger students is, “take risks when it comes to learning, and don’t be afraid to fail! Your teachers are there to guide you.” An impactful scripture for her is Philippians 4:4-7, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
We’re so proud of you and honored to call you an Academy graduate, Luciana!
Moriah Olson
Academy Student, 2013-2024
Moriah has become an exemplary leader among our K-12 student body know for her kindness, diligence, and dependability. As an Academy student, Moriah was captain of the Phoenix volleyball team and Vice President of the student council. She also helped coordinate several student-led events, creating many special memories for her peers.
Moriah testifies, “The Academy does such a great job at preparing students' minds and hearts to be shaped by God after their primary and secondary education. As an 18-year-old I can confidently say that I am ready for this new season that is approaching because I know that I'm not walking it alone. And I think that has been one of the most valuable lessons The Academy has taught me: I am not walking alone.
In elementary we start in Genesis and one of the first lessons we learn is that God wants to walk with his children just as he did with Adam and Eve in the garden. The verb "walk" in Hebrew is pronounced "halakha" and it means more than just walk, it has implications of learning involved. In Genesis the idea is that God seeks to walk alongside us as we go through our lives, directing us towards the right path. Over the past 4 years of my life, this has brought me immense comfort. Knowing that my God wants to be near me, wants to teach me, and desires to help guide me through life has been one of the most valuable lessons I have learned. It has given me confidence in the life I am living, knowing that I won't be facing anything alone.”
Following graduation, Moriah plans to attend @instituteforgod and major in Community Development with a minor in Maternal Health. “I hope to get certified first as a postpartum doula and then as a midwife. Through a class at The Academy called "Internship", I found a passion for maternal health as I have been able to work with NOVA Birth Services this year, specifically shadowing Celesta Bargatze. I strongly believe that the Lord is calling me to live the life of a midwife and I am excited for the journey ahead of me and all that it entails.”
A piece of advice the Moriah gives to our Academy students is, “to allow God to be the foundation of your friendships; that this is the key to having relationships that last. From the beginning of my Academy education, our teachers have worked hard to make sure we have a perspective on friendships that is founded in God’s word, and that we are implementing that into our relationships daily. Academy Students, love your friends like they are your brothers and sisters of blood, and treat them with kindness, compassion, and respect. Be quick to seek resolution amidst conflict, be quick to show mercy and forgiveness, and BE SERVANTS to one another. Lastly, let God guide your conversations. Don't be afraid to bring up His word in them; it will only make your friendships stronger. A lot pf people in your class are the people you are going to be serving God with for the rest of your lives. Build up those relationships now and allow God to be at the center of them, you won't regret it.”
Regarding a formative scripture Moriah says, “There are two scriptures that have had a great impact on my life. The first is Romans 8:1-11. A few years ago I committed this scripture to memory and it has been a constant reminder that if I choose to deny my flesh and walk according to God’s Word, I will receive life on the other side of it. Life in this case involves living with God’s presence which is found by knowing His word and engaging His spirit. This passage has helped me remain rooted in God’s word.
The second scripture that has meant a lot to me this year specifically has been Provers 16:9 which says, "The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps”. As a Senior in High School, there is a LOT of future thinking we have to do, and this verse has been one that has kept me steady through it all. Change is not something that I enjoy, but it is a major part of life, and learning to be okay with the uncomfortability of change (specifically change that God is involved in) has been a point of emphasis in my life. In 9th grade, we had a class called Psalms and Proverbs and we looked at this verse in particular and learned that is it good to make plans but we HAVE to allow God room to move and redirect those plans. For me, I want to do God’s will in my life, and I can't do that without Him. I am learning to make plans and allow God to bring change where change is needed.”
Kiah Roufs
Academy Student, 2013-2024
Kiah has been a steady, faithful student at the Academy who continues to showcase how she’s growing in not only academics, but also her knowledge of the Lord. Kiah was part of our first class when the Academy opened in 2013. She has been a major contributor to the Phoenix volleyball and soccer teams, and she served as the Ambassador on Student Council.
One impactful lesson that Kiah is taking with her from the Academy is the importance of obeying her teachers in practice of obeying God. Also, that learning more of who God is will only reveal more who she is in Him. Such powerful truths!
Following graduation, Kiah is participating in a summer internship program with @godintl and plans to attend the @instituteforgod in the fall. Her advice to students coming up behind her is that, “the classroom is the safest place to try new things and fail. It's fun to fail because then you've created an opportunity for yourself to grow and be better. Also don't care what other people think; everyone is trying and everyone is learning, so have fun learning together! I love John 15:4-5 the idea of us hanging onto the Lord and abiding in him as our strength is a visual I love. He is the vine we need substance from and we are the branches who can only live fully through him.”
“Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. ‘I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.’”
‘Gro More Good’ Grant Achieved!
Recently the Academy received the ‘Gro More Good’ Kids Gardening Grant from Scotts Miracle Grow. In cooperation with Hopewell Gardens the funding is being used to finish an outdoor educational space!
This spring, the Academy received the ‘Gro More Good’ Kids Gardening Grant from Scotts Miracle Grow. In cooperation with Hopewell Gardens the funding is being used to finish an outdoor educational space. Once finished this 400 square foot sheltered pavilion will provide a comfortable atmosphere for student instruction for up to 50 students. The space is perfect for agricultural instruction since it is positioned within Hopewell Gardens and just a short walk from the Academy school building. This allows students a seamless and quick transition between instructional time and hands on learning experiences in the garden. The outdoor classroom is a purposeful and educational space even in its planning and construction.
The outdoor classroom ‘wall’ is constructed is a trellis wall where plants will be grown up the side to create additional shade and a natural cooling affect. The trellis wall can act as an educational moment for students to learn about sustainable and eco-friendly building structures. We are so grateful for Hopewell Farms for their help in submitting this grant for our school and for their aid in the constructions of the space. As a farm to school program we love enhancing our programming and education in the realm of agriculture, and our students will benefit greatly from this new space! Each elementary student at the Academy has a class dedicated to working and learning in the garden at least once a week, facilitated by Farmer Jameson. Over the years, students have harvested everything from hibiscus and strawberries to lettuce and kale!
Our demonstration garden allows students to taste test foods as they are grown and occasionally eat those foods in their school cafeteria. Thank you to Scotts Miracle Grow for contributing to our efforts to enhance Academy students’ experience in the garden.
