LCA Blog

April 2024

We are thrilled to share a new and exciting milestone in the life of Liberty Christian Academy — the sign for our upcoming Elementary Addition is now up!

This addition represents more than just bricks and mortar. It’s a continuation of our mission to Build the Foundation for our youngest learners — creating a space where they will grow in wisdom, stature, and favor with God and man (Luke 2:52). With six new classrooms, additional restrooms, multipurpose space, and cafeteria overflow, we are intentionally shaping an environment designed to unlock each child’s God-given potential.

Not only will this allow us to better serve our elementary students, it also creates room to expand our middle and high school programs. By shifting some of our elementary classes into the new addition, we will open up valuable classroom space across campus, enabling us to continue developing strong academic tracks, discipleship programs, and next-level learning environments for our older students in middle school and high school.

Over 40 years ago, a vision was cast — to reach students for Christ and equip them to serve God. Today, we’re building on that legacy. The Elementary Addition is part of a larger master plan to expand our capacity, deepen our impact, and build potential in every student who walks through our doors.

We’re also excited to announce that groundbreaking is happening soon, and we’ll be sharing the official date in the coming days. This is a tangible reminder of God’s continued faithfulness and the power of our partnership with families like yours.

Thank you for trusting us with your children, for praying alongside us, and for being vision carriers in our community.

With joy and gratitude,

Amanda Cecil, Head of School
acecil@libertychristianacademy.org

 

April 2025 

At Liberty Christian Academy, our mission extends beyond wins and losses - we are committed to shaping young athletes into individuals of integrity, discipline, and strong character. While athletic skill is important, the true mark of a great athlete is found in their attitude, work ethic, and ability to reflect Christ-like values in every aspect of their game.

Our Mission & Value

At LCA, our Athletic Department Mission Statement is clear: "The Liberty Christian Academy Athletic Department instills Christ-like character in our student-athletes by maintaining a higher standard and promoting respect, integrity, accountability, and competition." 

Our vision is to prepare our athletes to become world changers for the Kingdom of God. Every game, practice, and competition is an opportunity to grow as leaders who reflect Christ both on and off the field. 

A Personal Perspective on Youth Sports Culture 

As a parent, I've seen firsthand how youth sports culture can be consumed by a win-at-all-costs mentality. My son played on a competitive travel baseball team, and while the level of competition was high, I quickly realized that character and values often took a backseat. Coaches demanded perfection, not just in skill, but in results. Mistakes weren't opportunities for growth; they were met with harsh criticism, and at times, outright disrespect.

I watched as players were talked down to, humiliated, and pushed beyond healthy limits, all in the name of winning. The focus wasn't on developing young men of integrity, nor on teaching perseverance and teamwork - it was solely about stats, trophies, and reputation. These experiences made me reflect deeply on what we, as parents and educators, truly want for our young athletes. Are we raising good players, or are we raising strong, Christ-centered individuals who will carry these lessons beyond the game? 

This is why what we do at LCA matters. We are not just building athletes- we are shaping character, instilling values, and preparing young people to honor God through sports. 

1. Character Over Talent

In today's sports culture, success is often measured by trophies and statistics. However, the foundation of a good athlete is character - how they respond to challenges, how they treat teammates and opponents, and how they handle victories and defeats. At LCA, we encourage our athletes to compete with humility, respect, and perseverance. 

2. The Power of Hard Work

Athletic ability can take a player far, but without dedication and effort, talent alone is not enough. Good athletes embrace the grind of practice, conditioning, and learning the game. They understand that showing up, putting in the work, and pushing through difficulties is what separates good from great. 

3. Teamwork and Leadership

The best athletes are not just focused on personal success; they uplift their team. Whether it's supporting a struggling teammate, listening to their coach, or leading by example, being a good teammate is just as important as personal performance. Leadership in athletics often translates into leadership in life.

4. Handling Adversity with Grace

Every athlete will face setbacks - whether it's a tough loss, a mistake in a game, or even an injury. What defines them is how they respond. Good athletes don't make excuses or blame others; instead, they learn, grow, and strive to improve. At LCA, we teach our students that their faith can be their anchor in both triumph and trials. 

5. Competing for a Greater Purpose

Sports provide an incredible opportunity for young athletes to learn discipline, teamwork, and perseverance - but more importantly, they allow them to glorify God through their actions. Whether it's showing sportsmanship, giving their best effort, or being a light to others, athletics should be about something greater than the game itself.

Final Thoughts

Raising good athletes isn't just about developing strong players; it's about cultivating strong individuals. As parents, coaches, and a school community, our role is to encourage our athletes to grow in skill, faith, and character. At Liberty Christian Academy, we hold our athletes to a higher standard - one that reflects our mission and vision. We are committed to raising up competitors who not only play with excellence but also live with purpose. 

Let's continue to build a culture at LCA where our athletes compete with integrity, lead with character, and honor God in all they do - both on and of the field. 

Elizabeth Robinson, Assistant Athletic Director. 
erobinson@libertychristianacademy.org

 

 

 

March 2025

As we enter the fourth quarter of another school year, it's important to take a moment to reflect on the journey our students undertake from their freshman year to senior year. Each transition they face along the way is an opportunity for academic and spiritual growth. As a school rooted in Christian faith, we approach these transitions not just as milestones in education, but as important moments of character development, faith strengthening, and spiritual maturity.

In this post, I want to share how, together, we can help guide our students through these formative years—reminding them of God's presence through each phase of their high school journey and encouraging them to embrace His guidance every step of the way.

Freshman Year: Embracing God’s Plan 

The transition into high school can be overwhelming for many freshmen. They step into a new environment, meet new people, and face new academic challenges. As they begin to find their footing, it’s crucial that we help them recognize the importance of trust in God’s plan for their lives. Jeremiah 29:11 reminds us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”

As parents, it’s important to encourage your child to rely on God’s guidance during these years of exploration. Freshman year is a time of discovering who they are in Christ, setting a foundation for future choices, and understanding that God is walking with them through every challenge. Encourage your child to get involved in Bible study groups, youth ministries, or other Christian extracurricular activities, as these can be powerful ways to build spiritual strength.

Sophomore Year: Growing in Faith and Confidence

Sophomore year brings a deeper sense of confidence in the academic and social realms. Students may begin to solidify their friendships, get involved in clubs, or start excelling in their studies. Spiritually, this year can be a time to help your child cultivate a deeper relationship with Christ.

Encourage your student to explore how their faith can shape the decisions they make. Whether they’re facing challenges with schoolwork, friendships, or family life, help them see that God can give them wisdom and peace in every situation. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”

As they continue to grow in both knowledge and faith, remind them that God is always with them, and their worth is not found in grades or achievements, but in their identity as children of God.

Junior Year: Preparing for the Future with God’s Purpose

Junior year often feels like a turning point. The academic demands increase, and students begin preparing for life after high school—whether that involves applying to colleges, considering career options, or exploring other post-graduation paths. This can be a time of anxiety as students begin to feel the weight of future decisions.

As Christians, we can remind our students that their future is in God’s hands. Matthew 6:34 teaches us, “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Encourage your child to seek God’s wisdom as they think about their future. Prayerfully consider what God may be calling them to, and be sure they know that they are not alone in these decisions. Help them stay grounded in their faith and find peace in knowing that God will lead them in the direction He has prepared for them.

Junior year is also a great time to build Christian character through community service, internships, or mission trips. These experiences can provide a broader perspective of how God might use their talents to serve others.

Senior Year: Trusting God in the Final Steps

As students approach their senior year, the reality of graduation looms large. This is a time for reflection and celebration of everything they’ve accomplished. But it’s also a time when many students may feel uncertain about their future.

We can help our seniors by guiding them to trust that God has a plan for their lives—one that will unfold in His perfect timing. Philippians 4:6-7 encourages us, “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.”

As seniors prepare to leave high school, they will be faced with decisions that will shape their futures. Encourage them to continue to seek God’s will, even as they transition to the next phase of their lives. Whether they’re heading to college, entering the workforce, or taking a gap year, God will be with them, guiding them toward His purpose.

The Role of Parents: Leading with Love and Faith

Through each transition, your presence and support are vital. As parents, you have the opportunity to lead your child with both love and faith, guiding them with the truth of Scripture and the example of Christ’s love. Encourage open conversations about their struggles, successes, and spiritual growth. Remember that your child’s high school years are not just about academics, but about shaping their hearts to become more like Christ.

In moments of uncertainty, remind them that they are fearfully and wonderfully made (Psalm 139:14) and that God has great plans for their lives. Trust that He is with them during every high and low, guiding them through the transitions of high school and beyond.

Thank you for partnering with us in your child’s spiritual and academic growth. Together, we will continue to support and encourage them as they navigate the transitions from freshmen to seniors, knowing that through it all, God is leading them into a bright future filled with hope and promise.

Malari Helman, High School Principal
mhelman@libertychristianacademy.org

 

February 2025

As parents, we want the absolute best for our children and if you are a bit of a “helicopter” parent like myself, you may tend to step in during those times when your child is faced with a problem. Yes, we as adults are great at solving problems (most of the time!), but one of the most important skills our children need to learn is the ability to solve their own problems. 

Here are some examples on how you can help your child learn to be a problem solver- you may find that you already do some of these! 🙂

Pray: No problem is “too small” for God to hear! Getting children in the habit of praying when faced with problems or before making a decision is a habit they will carry into their adult years.   

• Let your child observe how you solve problems: Children are natural observers and will learn best by watching how you react and solve daily problems. Staying calm and talking through your solution instead of panicking will show your child that problems can be solved without a lot of agitation. 

Take a step back: It’s okay for children to make mistakes. Yes- seriously. When your child needs guidance towards a solution, a great idea is to let them talk through possible solutions and outcomes with you. You could ask them to come up with their own solutions while offering some of yours as well. 

Daily routine tasks: Allow your child the opportunity to take part in all of the planning that goes into our daily routines (i.e. prepping for the next day- laying out all clothing items, packing their backpack and lunch, etc). Helping out with chores like unloading the dishwasher, sorting laundry, and putting groceries away are also tasks that require your child to use their critical thinking skills (and that’s a win for you- the chores get done!). 

Jesus tells us in the book of John that we will face trouble in this world and we all know there are days when it seems like there is no shortage of problems. Encouraging children to problem solve while they are young will surely help them as they grow older and the problems become more complicated. Plus, the joy on your child’s face when they realize they CAN do hard things like problem solve is priceless! ♥️

Amy Armstead, Pickerington Early Education Center Principal
aarmstead@libertychristianacademy.org

January 2025

When I think about the value of a Christian education, I reflect on the foundation upon which LCA is built. Our Core Values are rooted in a Biblical worldview. These core values—Biblical integration, Christ-centered activities, partnering with parents, and academic excellence—serve as the guiding principles of our school.

Biblical Integration
LCA is unique in its commitment to choosing curricula that integrate a Biblical worldview whenever possible. We primarily use BJU Press materials, which are as academically rigorous, Biblically integrated, and designed to promote critical thinking skills. We want families to have confidence that the materials presented to our students align with a Biblical worldview, ensuring that Christ can be seen in history, science, English, math, and even electives. Additionally, we encourage students to develop critical thinking skills. We want them to evaluate what they hear and learn to research and seek the truth for themselves. Students are taught to challenge ideas and concepts, applying a biblical lens to all knowledge.

Christ-Centered Activities
While academic excellence is central, extracurricular activities are equally important in a student's growth. Whether in athletics, the arts, or other extracurriculars, LCA approaches all activities with a Christ-centered focus. I am often inspired by stories of coaches and staff members leading students in devotions, praying together, and encouraging one another in their spiritual journeys. Students are taught to exhibit good sportsmanship in athletic events from a God-honoring perspective. Drama students use their God-given talents to glorify the Lord through performances, and music programs allow young students to praise God through song. Whether it’s a game, a play, or a concert, God is at the center of all that we do.

Partnering with Parents
One of the most valuable aspects of a Christian education is the partnership between school, church, and family. I often think of the analogy of a three-legged stool—one leg represents the school, one represents the church, and the third represents the family. All three elements have a role in forming the heart of each student. We must work together to ensure that our students succeed, not only academically but spiritually. At LCA, we strive to partner with families through daily communication, parent-teacher conferences, family events, and providing resources like RightNow Media to enhance spiritual growth at home. We believe that we cannot reach our students in isolation. The collaboration between school, family, and church is essential for our students’ holistic success.

Academic Excellence
When it comes to academics, we consistently evaluate our programs to ensure they meet high standards of quality and excellence. We recognize that students today learn differently than students did forty years ago, when LCA was founded. With information constantly available at their fingertips, students’ learning experiences are changing. As such, we continue to refine our approach, incorporating modern technology and teaching methods that align with today’s learning styles. For example, we have integrated project-based learning and collaborative problem-solving to foster critical thinking, and we provide ongoing professional development for our teachers to ensure they are well-equipped with the latest pedagogical tools. Our goal is to ensure that students not only receive a rigorous education but are also prepared to navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world.

In conclusion, the value of a Christian education at Liberty Christian Academy goes far beyond academics. It is about shaping students who think critically, live faithfully, and serve others with Christ-centered integrity. As we continue to adapt to a changing world, our commitment to these core values ensures that every student receives an education that equips them for success and purpose—now and in eternity.

 

Jeremy Blythe, Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer
jblythe@libertychristianacademy.org

 

December 2024

The holiday season can be a time of heightened emotions. Family dynamics, financial pressures, the list goes on. But grief can feel like an impossible wave when it becomes part of the equation. It's vital to recognize and validate your feelings.

The loss of a loved one is a profound experience. During the holidays, it can resurface, making it challenging to reconcile the season's joy with your grief, whether it's the first holiday or the tenth.

Experts suggest that if you are dealing with the loss of a loved one, you need a plan to minimize your anxiety and yet acknowledge and celebrate not only the holiday but the loved one. In our first year without Conor, we had no plan, only to get through. In hindsight, not the best way to acknowledge or deal with the holiday in our grief. For instance, we could have set up a memorial table with Conor's favorite things or shared stories about him during dinner. These are just a few examples of how we could have acknowledged and celebrated Conor during the holiday season.

Acknowledge that it will be different. Knowing what will help and what will not will be highly beneficial. You may find that you won't know until it becomes an issue or non-issue.

• You may want to examine the traditions your family practices. Will they be hurtful or healing? That first holiday without Conor, we did nothing we traditionally did, and our other children (adults) had to remind us that they still liked to celebrate and that Conor would not want us to be this sad.
• Celebrating in the same familiar place may initially feel overwhelming, so consider the healing power of travel. In our case, stepping out of our usual holiday routine and traveling was a truly transformative experience.
• Decide if you can handle an all-day event. Be gracious with yourself and acknowledge that you may only be able to stay for a short while.
• Understand the holiday itself only lasts 24 hours, and this too shall pass.
• Above all else, be kind to yourself.

Christ said in John 16:22, "So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again, and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy." So, while we mourn the loss of our loved one in this world, you can take comfort that, as believers, we will reunite with them. This verse has been a source of great comfort for us, reminding us that our grief is temporary and that we will be reunited with our loved ones.

Again, in John, chapter 3, verse 16, "For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life." This verse reassures us of God's love and the promise of eternal life, providing hope and comfort during our grief.

As the season of joyous celebration of the birth of our Lord and Savior commences, my prayers are with all of us who will be missing our loved ones.

Ric Cattell, Elementary Principal
rcattell@libertychristianacademy.org