The community is invited to visit Ames Christian School on Thursday, March 5th during our "Community Open House" from 9 am - 2 pm and in the evening from 5:00-7:30pm for a Chinese buffet and our "Classroom Showcase” event.

On March 5th from 9am- 2pm interested parents are invited to tour the school and observe our Preschool, Early Kindergarten, Kindergarten, First, Second, Third/Fourth, Fifth/Sixth and Music classrooms in action during a typical school day.  The Administrator and staff will be available to meet you and answer any questions you may have about ACS.

The event will begin with a Chinese buffet from 888 Restaurant starting at 5:00pm for Preschool families and 5:45pm for Elementary families. The "Classroom Showcases" will begin at 5:30pm and end at 7:30pm. Every fifteen minutes a classroom will present a showcase in which the teacher and students interact with the school community in a creative, academic way.  Families will receive a schedule detailing the times each showcase occurs in order to experience and participate in all the classrooms.  In addition Administrator, Peggy Smith, teachers, and ACS board members will be available to talk to you about the curriculum, core values, financial aid, and any other questions you may have.  Anyone in the Ames and surrounding communities, who is interested in ACS, are encouraged to tour the school, participate in the meal, and experience the classrooms.

Ames Christian is a member of the Association of Christian School International (ACSI) and in the process of obtaining ACSI accreditation. ACS provides academic excellence through personalized Christian education from a Biblical Worldview perspective through gifted, mentoring teachers, in a safe, disciplined learning environment to the children and families of Ames and the surrounding communities. Our student body represents many church denominations. 

ACS offers a half day and full day Preschool program for three and four year old children.  We also offer a five day afternoon Early Kindergarten program for four or five year olds. Our Early Childhood is licensed by the state with a four star QRS (Quality Rating System) rating.  The nurturing staff strives to meet the needs of the whole child. 

Our outstanding Elementary school serves students from Kindergarten to sixth grade.  We provide academic excellence in a safe, disciplined learning environment. We encourage students to become lifelong learners and strive to equip them to think, learn, discern, and act according to Biblical truth in order to embrace and fulfill God's unique purpose for their lives. Teachers model and infuse Biblical truth throughout the curriculum and activities at school. Students also participate in music, art, technology, chapel, and physical education classes. Parents have the option to enroll students in our afterschool Spanish integration program once a week. Parents are an integral part of our school's success.

 "I am excited for the community to come tour, observe, and participate at ACS. It’s a great opportunity to observe our dedicated teachers educate, model, and mentor their students from a Biblical perspective. Last year this event was a night to remember,” said Mrs. Smith.

Please save this date, March 5, on your calendars. We look forward to meeting new families as well as spending time with our current families.

Ames Christian offers Personalized Christian Education with academic excellence provided by gifted, mentoring teachers in a safe, disciplined learning environment. The parent meeting will begin with Peggy Smith, ACS Administrator, welcoming the parents and providing information about the school’s academic excellence, philosophy, mission, vision objectives, scholarship program, and enrollment procedure. She will introduce Academic Kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Carol Baedke, and Early Kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Julie Long to the parents. Mrs. Baedke's has taught at ACS for sixteen years. She taught first and second grade for nine years and is in her seventh year of teaching kindergarten. Mrs. Long is in her seventh year of teaching Early Kindergarten.  They will address the importance of readiness skills, go through the schedule of a typical day in their classrooms, and explain the difference between the two Kindergarten programs.  

Current Kindergarten parents will share about their child’s experiences at ACS and answer questions. Curriculum will be available for parents to view, the teachers will answer questions, and parents may tour the school. Childcare will be provided for families during the evening.   Please call the school office if you plan to attend and need childcare.

As you may recall, the school board made the decision last year to add seventh grade starting fall of 2015. This meeting will be an opportunity for you to hear more specifics about the school board’s vision for the future of the school, gain information about what preschool through middle school will look like at ACS, and ask questions.

We will also provide an update on the accreditation self-study process, progress, and how you can be involved. Accreditation is an all-encompassing task that will require a massive effort, but in the end will be very beneficial to the school. We appreciate any help you can provide

The staff desires that all the students enjoy recess by keeping warm and dry.  Please watch the weather carefully to make sure your student is prepared for winter weather and can enjoy recess. These are the Winter Recess Apparel Requirements:

• Complete outdoor winter apparel (boots, hats, mittens, and coats) is required for students to participate in recess activities. Hoods can be worn if they tie and stay securely on the students head.  To play in the snow students must wear snow pants. We recommend students wear snow pants daily to keep warm.
• Shoes are allowed when the sidewalks and parking lot are completely free of water, ice, or snow. 
• Incomplete outdoor apparel will result in no playground privileges and the student will be required to sit on the bench to watch.
• Snow boots can’t be worn in the building, if a student doesn’t have shoes at school parents will be called to bring shoes. Please make sure you child has an extra pair of shoes and socks in their locker at all times.

Inclement weather usually accompanies winter and potentiates the possibility of ACS having school delayed, dismissed early or closed to keep everyone safe. All closings, late starts, and early dismissals will be announced to the media stations WHO 13, KCCI 8, and WOI 5 (these stations alert radio stations including WHO1040 AM and KASI AM). Please tune into these stations, check their websites and sign up to receive a free text on your cell phone that will alert you when the school delays, dismisses early, or closes.

The following is critical information related to how the school day may be adjusted during severe weather.

• School delay or “late start”: A two hour delay allows time for weather to improve and school to be held. Elementary classes begin at 10:15 and there is no morning preschool. Students are not allowed to enter the building or wait on school grounds unsupervised before the 10:00 a.m.  Full Day Preschool will remain open its normal operational hours as long as the weather permits travel.  If weather conditions don’t improve a delay may result in the school closing
• School closing:  If Ames Christian is closed due to inclement weather by 6AM, both the Elementary and Early Childhood will be closed. 
• Early dismissal:  Early dismissal occurs if the weather conditions deteriorate during the school day. Parents will be notified by email, the media, and the alerts on their cell phones when severe weather requires an early dismissal. The Full Day Preschool and Aftercare Program will remain open as long as weather permits travel. The administrator will stay advised of the weather conditions and make that decision. 

You may view the list of auction items by clicking on the links below:

Live Auction List
Silent Auction List

The One Starry Night Gala and Auction is very special evening for the community to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas, enjoy a delightful evening, and support the mission of Ames Christian School. Please click the links to see items on the Silent and Live Auction.  Some of the items are subject to change.

Tickets need to be purchased by Monday, December 1.

The ACS Scholastic Book Fair will take place the week of September 22-26. Students, parents, and grandparents will have the opportunity to purchase books during the week and at the Tailgate Party. Parents, grandparents, and friends can also purchase books online until October 1 at: http://bookfairs.scholastic.com/homepage/ameschristian. 

The ACS Back to School Tailgate Party is from 5:30 - 7:30 pm on September 26. This all school fun event includes every family and their grandparents in Preschool-6^th grade.  Everyone enjoys great food, fellowship, inflatibles, and fun activities. 

Ames Christian School's annual Grandparent's Day celebration is on September 25 and 26. The students look forward to having their grandparents visit the school. Preschool and Early Kindergarten Grandparents are invited to spend a fun filled hour making memories with their three year old grandchild on Thursday, September 25, from 10:15-11:15. On Friday September 26, 2014 grandparents are invited to make memories with their four old grandchildren at 10:15-11:15 or Early Kindergarteners from 1:45-2:45. 

Elementary Grandparents are invited to spend the afternoon from 1:00-3:00 enjoying a program presented by the students and time in their grandchild's classroom. Grandparent's will have an opportunity to visit our Scholastic Book Fair taking place the week of September 22-26.  

The school board announced the grade expansion as part of a visioning process for the school’s future. According to board president Tyler Teske, the added classes will meet a current need in the Ames community.

“We have had many families interested in providing a Christian education for their children through eighth grade, but that option doesn’t currently exist,” said Teske. “ACS has experienced steady growth over the past few years, so combined with the community interest, the timing is good to move forward and provide this opportunity for our families.”

Starting in the fall of 2015, seventh grade will be added. Eighth grade will be added in 2016. The school currently offers preschool through sixth grade.

The grade expansion will extend the historically strong educational program at Ames Christian School. The current K-6 students show 98-100% academic proficiency in Reading, Math and Science on the Iowa Assessment Test. In addition to extending the academic proficiency for students into two additional grade levels, students will also continue to receive an education grounded in the Biblical worldview, and an experience that develops the whole student – academically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Ames Christian School is currently enrolling for the 2014-15 academic year for Early Childhood (3-5 year olds) and Kindergarten through sixth grade. Additional information and enrollment information is available online at www.AmesChristianSchool.org, or by contacting Peggy Smith, Administrator, by phone 515- 233-0772, or by email administrator@ameschristianschool.org

Personalized Christian Education and

Rounding Out the School Year at ACS!  

Topics:

• Summer program for preschoolers
• ACS awards
• Speech meet results
• Octagon art show
• Nic at Night!
• Green Hills mission
• Bike-a-thon accomplishments
• Learning from field trips
• Upcoming events

Click here for Friends of ACS Newsletter

Ames Christian School

925 South 16th St.

Ames, IA 50010-8117

(515) 233-0772

E-mail: administrator@ameschristianschool.org

Website: ameschristianschool.org

The three and four year old preschoolers showcased their knowledge of musical instruments by playing a musical instrument game afterwards they proudly wrote their names for their parents. The early kindergartners participated in a Reading Pals lesson and sounded out words. The children showed their parents how to do letter finds, a math lesson, and letter sorts.  The full day preschool students displayed their Dr. Seuss’s crafts and enjoyed listening with their families to their teacher read their favorite Dr. Seuss book Green Eggs and Ham.

The Kindergartners showcased their knowledge of the presidents. Dressed in handmade Abraham Lincoln tall hats and beards they amazed the crowd by reciting the Gettysburg Address!  They sang the “Grand Ole Flag” song to honor our country. Then the class wowed the crowd by reciting the alphabet with a Bible verse for every letter!

The first and second grade class showcased the human body.  Students displayed their knowledge about their teeth, bones, muscles, heart, blood, lungs, stomach and healthy food choices through narration and interactive, sometimes humorous songs.  Each student created a life-sized body cut-out complete with internal organs that could be viewed in the hallway.

Parents were put on the spot in Mrs. Earnest’s showcase game, “Are You Smarter than a Third or Fourth Grader?” They played the interactive game on the class Smart Board.  The kids tried to stump their parents and grandparents on the questions they wrote about math, science, social studies, language, and reading they’d learned this year in school.

The fifth and sixth grade class showcased a game which has become an integral part in their learning about current events.  At 1:00 each day, the class listens to the news on the radio and takes notes.  Mrs. Lubinus uses her notes to create a Jeopardy type game called "Current Events Challenge."  On Friday each team tries to answer the questions from the week and accumulating points throughout the month.  The team with the most points at the end of the month is declared the winner and new teams are drawn for the upcoming month.  Mrs. Lubinus believes that students with knowledge of the world around them become adults that are interested and involved in their communities.  

Each of the showcases demonstrated the academic excellence students receive through personalized Christian education at ACS.  Now is a great time to schedule a tour of Ames Christian and see the school in action.  ACS is accepting early registrations for Preschool through 6^th grade for the 2014-15 school year.  Parents who enroll their children before April 15 receive a registration discount. Be sure to see us on Facebook. For more information on enrollment call 515 233-0772 or visit our website www.ameschristianschool.org.

Ames Christian offers Personalized Christian Education with academic excellence provided by gifted, mentoring teachers in a safe, disciplined learning environment. The  parent meeting will begin with Peggy Smith, ACS Administrator, welcoming the parents and providing information about the school’s academic excellence, philosophy, mission, vision objectives,scholarship program, and enrollment procedure. She will introduce Academic Kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Carol Baedke, and Early Kindergarten teacher, Mrs.Julie Long to the parents. Mrs. Baedke's has taught at ACS for fifteen years. She taught first and second grade for nine years and is in her sixth year of teaching kindergarten. Mrs. Long is in her sixth year of teaching and directing ACS Preschool and Early Kindergarten.  They will address the importance of readiness skills, go through the schedule of a typical day in their classrooms, and explain the difference between the two Kindergarten programs.  

Current Kindergarten parents will share about their child’s experiences at ACS and answer questions. Curriculum will be available for parents to view, the teachers will answer questions, and parents may tour the school. Childcare will be provided for families during the evening.   Please call the school office if you plan to attend and need childcare.

Personalized Christian Education   

Topics:

• New School Board members
• Pastor's Day
• Grandparent's Day
• Christmas Gala
• Matching Funds campaign
• Early Literacy
• Chapel
• Upcoming events

Click here for Friends of ACS Newsletter

Ames Christian School students enjoyed a busy week with three events: the Scholastic Book Fair, Grandparents Day, and the annual Tailgate Party.

The halls of Ames Christian were filled with books for the annual Scholastic Book Fair. The Preschool-6^th grade students raised over $600 dollars in coins for Scholastic’s “All for Coins” challenge.  The Book Fair earned the school an additional $1,548 Scholastic Dollars to buy more books for the school library.

On Friday September 27, students welcomed their grandparents to the school for Grandparents Day. The elementary classes performed a Christian cadence, sang hymns together, and then each class performed for their grandparents.  Highlights were the Kindergarten’s “Old Mac Donald “ song with the children dressing as one of the animals, the 1st and 2nd grade poems and songs to honor their grandparents, the 3rd and 4th grade original skit, and the 5th and 6th original readers theater. Then the grandparents joined their grandchildren in to their classrooms see what a day in class at ACS is like.

The Kindergarten class recited Bible memory verses for every letter in the alphabet for their grandparents, and showed them how to use their SMART Board. In the 1st and 2nd grade classes, students interviewed their grandparents about what school was like when they were growing up.

Grandparents helped the 3rd and 4th grade class to study plant heredity by sampling four different types of apples.  They identified the different characteristics of each type of apple and for the apples that were hybrids they used made hypotheses about the types of parent apple trees.  Everyone enjoyed becoming botanists! 

The 5th and 6th grade class took the opportunity to do several science projects with their grandparents.  They dissected a flower and identified all the parts as well as examined a mold specimen that they had started growing several days earlier. The students also enjoyed giving their grandparents a spelling test with words they are learning. 

Friday evening grandparents, parents, and students returned for the ACS Tailgate. Students enjoyed games, inflatables, and food while they spent time in fellowship with ACS families and friends.

Ames Christian Preschool welcomed a special friend to their class this week: Smyles the Library Dog! As part of the Ames Public Library Program, “Project Smyles,” preschool students are visited once a month by librarian, Cathy Van Brocklin. The outreach program encourages early literacy skills among children.

Miss Cathy began the library time by singing songs with the children and reading a story. Suddenly Smyles, the Library Dog, joined the preschoolers. He encouraged them to dance to a song and then he acted out a book with them. Each child received the opportunity to take a picture with Smyles and give him a hug.

The preschoolers displayed great excitement as they ventured out to visit the Bookmobile parked in front of the school.  They learned about the bookmobile and all of the different children books available for check out.

These visits from Project Smyles, increase print motivation in preschoolers which is their interest and enjoyment in books. The goal is for children to improve their early literacy skills and become better prepared to enter school.

Ames Christian Preschool participates in many fun visits and outings. Upcoming events this fall include a trip to Center Grove Orchard and Grandparents Day, where grandparents can join their grandchildren at the preschool and create memories.

Ames Christian provides academic excellence through personalized Christian education in a safe, disciplined learning environment. Students are encouraged to become lifelong learners and equipped to think, learn, discern, and act from a Biblical Worldview perspective. For more information, visit www.ameschristianschool.org. or find us on Facebook.

The teachers and students of Ames Christian School were excited to welcome back a very special member of the ACS family last Wednesday during chapel. Mrs. Paula Tjernagel, former ACS teacher, came all the way from Spain to speak to the students.

Tjernagel, affectionately known by students as Mrs. T, helped start Ames Christian School. She made such a great impact on the school that for years later, the school honored one deserving student with the “Mrs. T Award” every year for showing Christ-like behavior and a servant’s heart.

Mrs. T and her husband went on from Ames Christian School to serve as missionaries in Spain. Mrs. T told the kindergarten-sixth graders about why she became a missionary and how Spain is very different from the culture we live in. She explained to the students that in our country we can hear stories about Jesus everywhere, from turning on the radio, to having churches all over and going to a Christian school. In Spain, she explained, there are very few churches and schools that tell about Jesus like we have here.

Mrs. T used the illustration of bedside lamp to show the children about the light of Jesus. She asked the students if they get scared sometimes in the dark. She covered the lamp with a blanket and showed that that scary darkness is what life is like without Jesus. But when we have Jesus in our hearts, we should take the blanket off of our light so that everyone see his light in us.

Mrs. T taught the students a Bible verse with hand motions. Matthew 5:16,  “Let your light shine before others that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”  

Ames Christian School holds weekly chapel services on Wednesdays where local pastors and other guests come to speak. This year’s chapel theme is based on the book “Young Peacemakers” by Corlette Sande which deals with Biblical and practical ways to resolve conflict.

Click here for Friends of ACS Newsletter

Ames Christian School students have participated in various academic competitions. The students recently competed in the ASCI Math Olympics.  Each student competed in one of two categories: reasoning (story problems) or computation (math facts).  The tests were then sent to the state host school to be tabulated.  Third grader Isaac Song placed fourth in the third grade reasoning category, sixth grader Harrison Yoder placed third in the sixth grade computation category, and fifth grader Theodore Espelien placed second in the fifth grade reasoning category.

Ames Christian School hosted its second annual speech meet on Wednesday, March 27. Every student in first through sixth grade participated in the competition. The students chose and prepared selections in poetry, Bible memory, Fables and Folklore, Dramatic Bible Prose, or Patriotic Oration for the competition. 

"The Speech Meet is a great experience for students this age,” said fifth and sixth grade teacher Darlene Lubinus. “You never know when you have to make a public speech and getting this opportunity so early in their academic career is very valuable."

The students preformed their speeches bravely in front of judges and then received advice and words of encouragement. The judges were Tim Lubinus, Kristi Despard, Amy Duvick, Colette Mickelson, Laura Gardner, and MaryAnn Shimkus. After all the students competed in the meet, the winners were chosen and posted. Fifteen ACS students advanced to the Association of Christian Schools International State Speech Meet.

The ACSI State Meet was held at Mt. Pleasant Christian School in Mt. Pleasant, Iowa on April 13. Other participating schools included Ankeny Christian Academy, Mt. Pleasant Christian School, and Waterloo Christian School. Mrs. Lubinus and several ACS parents accompanied the students. 

The students who earned first place with “Superior” ratings were Aubrey Schafbuch, Brayden Kolodziej, Caleb Wise, Haley Yoder, Harrison Yoder, Isaac Song, Job Ante, Matt Windus, Sofie Hyde, Theo Espelien-Smith, and Vijay Williams. The students who received “Excellent” ratings were Alanna Tasler, Ben May, Caidan Kolodziej, Christopher Douet, and Claire Moore

ACS provides students with many opportunities for learning, including a variety of field trips, contests, and and service projects.  If you would like to learn more about Ames Christian School’s quality education programs, please contact us or visit us on Facebook.  ACS invites you to support ACS by participating in our 4-Person Best-Shot Golf Outing presented by Century21 Signature Real Estate, Friday, May 24th at Coldwater Golf Links. This event includes lunch, 18 holes of golf with a cart, and a chance to win many prizes.  The Golf Outing begins with lunch at 11:00 a.m. with a shotgun start at Noon. To sponsor a hole or register to golf call: (515) 233-0772 or go to www.ameschristianschool.org.

Barbara Burnham comes to Ames Christian with vast experience in fundraising and development.  She moved to Ames from Tampa, Florida in 2009 where she served as the Associate Vice President of the University of South Florida Foundation and Executive Director of the USF Foundation Board for nine years. Barbara’s experience also includes serving as the Executive Director for the Ronald McDonald House Charities in Tallahassee, Florida, and Columbia, South Carolina for five years.

Burnham obtained a B.S. in Education from, Sanford University and the University of West Alabama.

“I’m an educator at heart, having taught for ten years before putting on my fundraising hat,” said Burnham. “I have experienced ACS first hand through my granddaughter, Lindsay’s, experience at Ames Christian Preschool and have fallen in love with how the school dispenses education. When the opportunity to work for ACS came along I looked at it as a gift which I was so excited to accept.”

Burnham will focus on connecting more families in Ames and the surrounding area with the personalized Christian education offered from Preschool/Childcare through 6^th grade at ACS, and communicate the benefits of investing in a secure, nurturing, learning environment that promotes academic excellence and builds Christian character through gifted, mentoring teachers.  

 “Barbara brings the gifts of personal connections in the Ames community along with a wealth of experience in fundraising and development,” said ACS Board President Jeff Sernett. “We greatly value her willingness to share these gifts with us.”

Ames Christian’s mission is to equip students to think, learn, discern, and act from a Biblical worldview perspective in order to embrace and fulfill God’s unique purpose for their lives.  Ames Christian partners with parents to provide students with an excellent academic program that encourages students to develop critical thinking and problem solving skills.

“Ames Christian is so blessed to have Barbara Burnham.  Barbara’s passion for Christian education increased as she observed the school in action.  She realized the importance of teaching children to think critically, discern spiritually, and act biblically.  She’s the perfect fit for this position with her vast experience, gifts, talents, and heart for Christian education,” said Peggy Smith, ACS Administrator.    

Barbara lives in Ames with her husband, Wally, who is the Defensive Coordinator for Iowa State University’s football program.  The Burnham’s have three children and five grandchildren.  

Music teacher, Mrs. Laura Gardner, directed preschoolers through 6th graders in the performance. The program opened with a prayer from ACS School Board Vice President, Mark Reisinger, and a welcome from Ames Christian School’s new Director of Development, Barbara Burnham.  Next, sixth grader, Harrison Yoder, recited his speech that won a blue ribbon, superior rating, at the ACSI State Speech Meet. 

The 3-year-olds began the program with a medley of songs, including “Little Love Notes.” The children recited 1 John 4:19, “We love, because God first loved us,” and explained that God’s “little love notes” for us can be found in the verses of the Bible.

After the three-year-olds exited the stage, the 4 and 5 year-old preschool classes joined the Kindergarten through sixth graders on stage. They sang songs about God's Plan of Salvation (GPS), and recited Bible passages about God’s commands and trusting His wisdom. The song, "Ten!" drove the message home that God's commandments are not intended to take things from us, but to bring blessings for us. The variety of music styles ranged from '50's easy rock to swing jazz, and from Latin rhythms to the old hymn, "Give of Your Best to the Master." 

The preschool and primary grades were featured on several musical numbers with a touch of humor, including "Don't Bow Down to Idols" and "Be Quick to Listen." On a more serious note, the Kindergarten through 6th grades classes recited the entire passage of Proverbs 2:1-15 from memory.  The ACS Chapel theme has centered on wisdom this year. The choir concluded the program with the upbeat, "Ride of Our Lives."  Sixth grader, Matthew Windus, ended the program with the recitation of his blue ribbon winning ACSI speech.

The children loved performing with their classmates for their family and friends, and enjoyed wonderful goodies and punch following the program at the reception provided by the ACS parents. A special thank you to reception chairperson, Leah Lindsay, and her committee members, all who helped plan and carry out the event, especially Stonebrook Church and their sound technician, Scott Hanson.  ACS also appreciates Mrs. Julie Long, Early Childhood Director, and her staff for their hard work with the preschoolers.  Most of all ACS thanks Mrs. Laura Gardner, ACS Music teacher, who designed this Christ-centered program, and taught the children about their Savior in the process. 

Ames Christian School offers weekly music, P.E., chapel, and art classes for their students as they continue to provide academic excellence and personalized Christian education to Ames and the surrounding area. To learn more about preschool/child care or elementary school at ACS, please call (515)233-0772 or visitwww.ameschristianschool.org or on Facebook.

The 4- and 5-year-old preschoolers and early kindergartners participated in a Reading Pals lesson and sounded out words. The children showed their parents how to do letter finds, a math lesson, and letter sorts. The 3-year-olds performed several finger plays and sang songs with actions.

The kindergartners, taught by Carol Baedke displayed their knowledge of the presidents, dressing in handmade Abraham Lincoln masks and reciting the Gettysburg Address. The class also recited the alphabet with a Bible verse for every letter.

The first and second graders donned their best cowboy hats, boots and bandanas to tell about the life of the cowboy in the late 1800s. As part of their social studies curriculum the students have been studying about westward migration, the expansion of the railroad, the Gold Rush, ranchers, and cattle drives. Throughout the performance the children explained about the responsibilities of the trail boss, wrangler, cook and cowhand. They ended by square dancing to “Clementine,” “Home on the Range “and” Happy Trails.”

Parents were put on the spot in Faith Earnest’s showcase game, “Are You Smarter than a Third or Fourth Grader?” They played the interactive game on the Smart Board. The kids were delighted to stump their parents and grandparents on many of the questions they wrote about math, science, social studies, language, and reading they’d learned this year in school.

The fifth and sixth graders showcased “Current Events Challenge.” Every school day the entire class listens to the news at 1 p.m. and takes notes. On Wednesdays, Darlene Lubinus turns those notes into a “Jeopardy” type game which is played in teams. At the end of the month, one team is declared the winner based on the number of questions they answered correctly all month.

Ames Christian School is currently accepting early registrations for preschool through sixth grade. Parents will receive a registration discount by enrolling before March 31. To take advantage of this discount, schedule a tour, and find out how to enroll your child or children by contacting Peggy Smith at (515) 233-0772 or psmith@ameschristianschool.org.

The school won the SMART Board as a part of Hy-Vee’s annual SMART POINTS program. Ames Christian School mom, Diana Ingraham, has coordinated the school’s participation in the contest for the last three years. A SMART Board has been won for the third and fourth grade classroom, the kindergarten classroom, and most recently the first and second grade classroom. Hy-Vee also awarded Ingraham and her family with an iPad 2 for their hard work during the collection process Hy-Vee has partnered with two corporate sponsors, Proctor and Gamble and Sara Lee, to create the SMART POINTS program. HyVee representatives presented first and second grade teacher Julie Skaar and her class with the SMART Board during a small school assembly.

“My goal is to win a SMART Board for Ames Christian School every year,” said Ingraham at the beginning of the contest.

Thanks go to Diana Ingraham for her diligent work coordinating the SMART Board campaign and to Hy-Vee for the gift.

The event will begin with lunch provided by Comfort Food Catering at 11 a.m. followed by a shotgun start at noon. Last year over 100 golfers participated in this fun event and enjoyed fellowship and networking with other ACS supporters. Great prizes and trophies will be awarded to the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place foursomes as well as opportunities to win on two hole-in-ones, closest to the pin, longest drive, and more. Prizes include a Camry from Wilson Toyota of Ames and a Harley-Davidson motorcycle from Zylstra Harley Davidson. Past prizes have included gift certificates to Omaha Steaks and Golf USA, golf clubs, golf lessons, and more. 

A $500 Hole sponsorship includes 18 holes of golf for a foursome with carts, lunch, and hole signage and program recognition. A $350 Hole Sponsorship includes hole signage and program recognition without a golf foursome. 

 Individuals may golf for $85 and foursomes for $350.

 Don't miss out on this great day of golfing while supporting Ames Christian School!

Register Here

ACS Golf Outing Registration

One preschool mom says, “I love listening to my son re-tell Bible stories and talk about which new letter sounds he can make in the four year old class. My daughter is in the three year old class, and her speech and social skills have improved dramatically. The preschool program at Ames Christian has been absolutely exceptional, nothing less. These people love God and love children, and it shows.”

Preschoolers spend their time doing crafts, reading, and learning through play. Each week a different Bible story is highlighted. The ACS music teacher teaches the children’s songs for the two musicals the children participate in each year. 

They love to take turns bringing in the “share bag” and are excited to show their friends something special about themselves. They enjoy monthly visits from “Smyles” the Ames Public Library dog and special presentations from Story County Conversation, like a recent talk about spiders and snakes.

Some of fun class events this year included field trips to the apple orchard, a trip to McFarland Park for an I-Spy hike, and plays at Stephens Auditorium. ACS encourages parent involvement and has many special days for family like Muffins with Mom, Donuts with Dad, and Grandparents Day. ACS also emphasizes service both in the community and around the world. Every Christmas the preschoolers put together Operation Christmas Child boxes to send to children in need.

Ames Christian Preschool offers different half day preschool options for parents to choose from. Three-year-olds can attend Tuesday/Thursday in the morning (8:30am-11:15am). Four year olds can attend Monday, Wednesday, and Friday in the morning (8:30am-11:15am).  Four and Five year olds can attend a 5 day a week Prekindergarten afternoon session (12:00pm-2:45pm). In addition, ACS also offers full day Preschool/ Childcare for 3 to 5 year olds from 7am-5:30pm.

To learn more about enrollment check our website www.ameschristianschool.org or call Julie Long, Early Childhood Director, at 515-233-0110.

In the Fall, Kindergartners visited DeMoss pumpkin farm, took a trip to Fire Station Number 3 in Ames, and went to CY Stephens to see the musical version of “If You Give a Mouse a Cookie.” Parent involvement during all these events is always welcomed.

For Thanksgiving, the class read about the people who came over on the Mayflower and their first year in America. Each student made a Pilgrim hat and took on a name of a person that traveled on the Mayflower. 

On Tuesday, January 29 students celebrated the 100^th Day of School with lots of fun activities. Each student brought a collection of 100 items, so they could see what 100 things looks like. 

 The Kindergarteners also participate in many fun learning activities with the rest of Ames Christian School. Recently the school celebrated Book Week where they got to dress like favorite book characters and also read with the third and fourth grade classes.

Ames Christian School offers P.E., Art and Music classes for Kindergarten Students. They participate in the Live Healthy Iowa program for P.E. and  perform in two musical plays with the school every year.

Ames Christian School is currently accepting early registrations for Preschool through 6th grade. Parents will recieve a discount by enrolling before March 31. To take advantage of this discount, schedule a tour and find out how to enroll your Kindergartner or other children in ACS by contacting Peggy Smith at 515-233-0772 or psmith@ameschristianschool.org. 

On Monday a coloring contest of the school mascot “Ace the Eagle” was held. The students started a traveling story called, “The Adventures of Ace the Eagle.” Each day a different class wrote part of the story. On Tuesday the students came to school dressed as their favorite book character. 

Older ACS students are encouraged to mentor and interact with younger students which was put into practice for Wednesday’s activity. During “Come Read With Me Day” the third and fourth grade classes read with Kindergarten students and first and second graders read with the fifth and sixth grade classes.

For Thursday’s activity, students had the chance to listen to author and wildlife photographer Ty Smedes present, "The Return of the Bald Eagle to Iowa.” Smedes is the author and photographer of two Iowa nature books and a freelance photographer for many local and national nature magazines. Later in the day, fifth and sixth graders had a question and answer session with Mr. Smedes where he spoke to them about how to become a published author and photographer. He gave them tips on how to practice writing and photography now.

At the end of “Soar into Reading” week, the finished traveling story written by the students was read at lunch and the winners of the coloring contest and “dress like a book character contest” were announced. The overall winner of the coloring contest was second grader Job Ante and first place went to second grader Austin Randall. First grader Amanda Hansen was the overall winner for the costume contest for her “Cat in Hat” costume. Kindergartner Kate Reisinger won first place for her “Cowboy Kate and Cocoa” outfit.

Topics:

• Kindergarten Round-Up

Click here for Friends of ACS Newsletter

Ames Christian School

925 South 16th St.

Ames, IA 50010-8117

(515) 233-0772

E-mail: administrator@ameschristianschool.org

Website: ameschristianschool.org

 Ames Christian offers personalized Christian education with academic excellence provided by gifted, mentoring teachers in a safe, disciplined learning environment. The parent meeting will begin with Peggy Smith, ACS Administrator, welcoming the parents and providing information about the school’s structure, mission, enrollment procedure, and other programs. She will introduce Academic Kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Carol Baedke, and Early Kindergarten teacher, Mrs. Julie Long to the parents. Mrs. Baedke has taught at ACS for fifteen years. She taught first and second grade for nine years and is in her sixth year of teaching Kindergarten. Mrs. Long is in her sixth year of teaching and directing ACS Preschool and Early Kindergarten.  They will explain the difference between the two Kindergarten programs. 

Current Kindergarten parents will share about their child’s experiences at ACS and answer questions. Curriculum will be available for parents to view, the teachers will answer questions, and parents may tour the school. Childcare will be provided for families during the evening.

On March 11 from 9:00-10:30 a.m., future Kindergartners are invited to experience what Kindergarten is like for the morning. They will join Mrs. Baedke and Mrs. Long in the Kindergarten room, where the western round-up theme will carry throughout the activities that the students participate in during a fun morning.

Please feel free to call the school office or email psmith@ameschristianschool.org  if you have any questions.

On March 7th from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. parents of Preschoolers - 6th graders are invited to tour the school and observe ACS classrooms in action during a typical school day. The Dean of Students and staff will be available to meet you and answer any questions you may have about ACS.

The spaghetti dinner and "Classroom Showcase Evening" will begin with a spaghetti dinner starting at 5:30 p.m. for Preschool families and 6:00 p.m. for Elementary families. The "Classroom Showcases" will begin at 6:30 and end at 8:00. Every twenty minutes a classroom will present a showcase in which the teacher and students interact with the school community in a creative, academic way. Families will receive a schedule detailing the times each showcase occurs and can experience and participate in all the classrooms.  In addition Dean of Students, Peggy Smith, teachers, and ACS board members will be available to talk to you about curriculum, academic objectives, scholarships, and address any other questions you may have. Anyone in the Ames and surrounding communities, who is interested in ACS, as well as current students and their families, may tour the school building, participate in the meal, and experience the classrooms.

Ames Christian is a member of Association of Christian School International (ACSI). ACS provides “Personalized Christian Education" from a Biblical Worldview through gifted, mentoring Christian teachers, in a safe, disciplined learning environment to the children and families of Ames and the surrounding communities.  Our student body represents many church denominations. 

ACS offers a full day Preschool/Childcare and half-day Preschool program for three and four year old children.  We also offer a five day afternoon Early Kindergarten program. The nurturing staff strives to meet the needs of the whole child. 

Our outstanding Elementary school serves students from Kindergarten to sixth grade.  We provide academic excellence in a safe, disciplined learning environment. We encourage students to become lifelong learners and strive to equip them to think, learn, discern, and act according to Biblical truth in order to embrace and fulfill God's unique purpose for their lives. Teachers model and infuse Biblical truth throughout the curriculum and activities at school. Students also participate in music, art, computer skills, chapel, and physical education classes. Parents are an integral part of our school's success.

"I am excited for the community to come tour, observe, and participate at ACS. They will enjoy watching our dedicated teachers educate, model, and mentor their students from a Biblical perspective. Last year this event was a night to remember,” said Mrs. Smith.

Please save this date, March 7, on your calendars. We look forward to meeting new families as well as spending time with our current families.

The spaghetti dinner and "Classroom Showcase Evening" will begin with a spaghetti dinner starting at 5:30pm for Preschool families and 6:00pm for Elementary families. The "Classroom Showcases" will begin at 6:30 and end at 8:00. Every twenty minutes a classroom will present a showcase in which the teacher and students interact with the school community in a creative, academic way. Families will receive a schedule detailing the times each showcase occurs and can experience and participate in all the classrooms.  In addition Dean of Students, Peggy Smith, teachers, and ACS board members will be available to talk to you about curriculum, academic objectives, scholarships, and address any other questions you may have. Anyone in the Ames and surrounding communities, who is interested in ACS, as well as current students and their families, may tour the school building, participate in the meal, and experience the classrooms.

ACS offers quality, "Personalized Christian Education" to its students. "I am excited for the community to come tour, observe, and participate at ACS. They will enjoy watching our dedicated teachers educate, model, and mentor their students in Biblical principles. Last year this event was a night to remember, "said Mrs. Smith.
Please save this date, March 7, on your calendars. We look forward to meeting new families as well as spending time with our current families.

Topics:

• Christmas Gala - December 1st
• New teacher
• Starting school right
• Kindergarteners swarm fire station!
• Teachers gain knowledge at Summit Ministries Conference
• Matching Funds campaign in full swing
• Upcoming events calendar

Click here for Friends of ACS Newsletter

Ames Christian School

925 South 16th St.

Ames, IA 50010-8117

(515) 233-0772

E-mail: administrator@ameschristianschool.org

Website: ameschristianschool.org

Mark your calendars and join Ames Christian School for the 3^rd Annual One Starry Night Gala and Auction presented by Fidelity Bank. You will not want to miss this elegant semi-formal event on Saturday, December 1, 2012 at the Iowa State Union Durham Great Hall. The gala will begin at 6:30 pm with a social time and silent auction followed by a three course meal, entertainment by the Ames Jazz Quartet, and live auction beginning at 7 pm. This one of a kind event is unique in that it brings together families and friends of Ames Christian School as well as businesses and individuals from the community to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas while enjoying a wonderful evening out.

This year's live and silent auction will have something for EVERYONE and just in time for Christmas!

Do you have an Iowa State Cyclone football fan in your family? Bid on an ISU football helmet autographed by Paul Rhoads, 2013 football tickets, parking pass, and tailgate package! A  Hawkeye fan? We have tickets and items for you too.

Are you a quilt collector? A beautiful handmade quilt made by an ACS grandmother has become a highly desired and big ticket item!

Do you love the outdoors? Bid on a trip to the Woodside Dude Ranch and Resort in Wisconsin, Hidden Acres Camp package, or a guided family horseback ride with a bonfire in Boone.  Indoors for you? A family trip to the Great Wolfe Lodge with tickets to see the Kansas City Royals is a can’t miss!

There are items for the queen and princess in your family with salon packages, massages, teeth whitening, manicures, pedicures, jewelry, clothing, and more.  A Downtown Girls Night Out for all the Moms that need some “girl time”.  

Birthday packages with special appearances for both girls and boys including photography face painting, inflatables, pizza, cake, and more.

Pick your friends up in a limousine and enjoy a private wine tasting, tour, and dinner on the town. Do you need a date night, take your significant other to Stephens Auditorium for The Nutcracker.

Make Christmas shopping easy and your husband, wife, or children smile with gifts for everyone; The Golfer, The Disney Lover, The Baker, The Girly Girl, The Sports Fanatic, The New or Expecting Mom, The Art Collector, The Toddler, The Scrapbooker, or The Dessert Lover! Truly a gift for everyone you love all while supporting a wonderful school.

Tickets for the 3rd Annual One Starry Night Gala and Auction presented by Fidelity Bank can be purchased by calling ACS at (515)233-0772 or contacting the school at secretary@ameschristianschool.org. Tables are $500, couples/$150 and individuals $100 click here for form  All proceeds benefit Ames Christian School general and scholarship funds.

Ames Christian School’s mission is to provide academic excellence through gifted, mentoring teachers in a safe, disciplined learning environment engaged in global and local outreach projects and  strives to equip students with a Biblical Worldview to become tomorrow’s strong leaders. ACS offers provide Personalized Christian Education for Preschool – 6^th grade.  We provide a half day and full day Preschool/Childcare program for 3-5 year olds. ACS demonstrates academic excellence with ITBS scores that are above the state and national averages.  Through your attendance and investment in this event, YOU can make a positive difference in the future of our children and their families in Ames and the surrounding area.

We look forward to seeing new and familiar faces, Saturday, December 1, 2012 at the Iowa State University Memorial Union, Great Hall, at 6:30 pm for the 3rd Annual One Starry Night Gala and Auction presented by Fidelity Bank.

We'll keep working toward the goal of moving continously at the beginning of class without having to stop as they learn to find a pace they can sustain. Cushioned heels and snug athletic shoes help to make PE more enjoyable. I encouraged all students to tie their laces in a way that their foot doesn't move too much inside their shoe. If your child feels like their foot is pounding hard on the cement, you might want to consider a different shoe for PE.

Ga Ga Ball has been a great addition to our school. I have found the game originated in Israel and "ga" means to hit. Faith Earnest had a good friend make our "pit" for us. We believe the game is good for our kids as it teaches them to take initiative, accept when their out and to cheer others on who are still playing. The nature of the game keeps students in the "ready position" with knees bent and that has application to many of the sports we play at ACS and in recreation programs all over the area.

The school year began with an ACS tradition where students, parents, and faculty gathered around the flagpole to say the pledges and begin the school year with prayer.

Excited students arrived with their parents to drop off their supplies in the classroom.  Then the students, parents, and faculty gathered around the flagpole.  Together, they pledged allegiance to the American flag, the Christian flag, and the Bible.  They asked God to continue bless the school, guide the teachers as they mentor and equip the children with knowledge framed around a Biblical Worldview, open the hearts and minds of the students to absorb the knowledge and instruction, and build a strong school community of families.

Following the prayer the student’s re- entered the building with their teachers for their first day of school. As the students were busily putting away new school supplies, parents joined Administrator, Peggy Smith, for a silent prayer walk throughout the school. While the students began to adjust to their classrooms, prayers were being lifted up for each student, family, and faculty member in the hallways.

Ames Christian School offers Academic Excellence through personalized Christian education. The school is committed to quality curriculum, high academic standards which focus on the success of each individual student, and equipping students with a Biblical Worldview. For more information, visit www.ameschristianschool.org. or find us on facebook.

If you are interested in playing in the tournament or sponsoring the outing, please contact Coby Wells at cwells@ameschristianschool.org or by phone at (515)233-0772 or

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER TODAY!

Prices are as follows:
Hole Sponsorship:$500- This includes 18 holes of golf, lunch and cart for 4, hole signage, program and post-event recognition.
Foursome:$340- This includes 18 holes, lunch and cart for 4.
Individual:$85- This includes 18 holes, lunch and a cart.
 

Giving to Others Continues at Ames Christian School!

Topics:

• Kindergarten Round-up
• SMART Board Awarded to ACS Kindergarten
• Service Project Benefits Children Overseas
• Volunteer Spotlight
• Board President Update
• Fourth Annual Golf Outing
• Pasta Dinner & Classroom Showcase
• Field Trips to Stephens Auditorium

Click here for Friends of ACS Newsletter

You are probably wondering what QRS is.  It stands for Iowa’s Quality Rating System.  A voluntary child care rating system for child development homes, licensed child care centers and preschools, and child care programs that are operated by school districts.  It offers providers a guided way to improve the quality of child care they provide.

The QRS was developed to raise the quality of child care in Iowa and to increase the number of children in high-quality child care settings.

Julie Long,  Early Childhood Director, has been participating in this rating system since 2008.  She has increased ACS’s rating over the past few years and has achieved a Level 4 rating in both the preschool and the child care!  A provider who achieves Level 1 has met Iowa’s registration or licensing standards.  A Level 2 provider has received additional training and made the first steps toward improving quality.  Providers in Levels 3-5 have made significant steps in meeting key indicators of quality in the areas of: professional development, health and safety, environment, family and community partnership, and leadership and administration.

Our childcare program is an extended Christian learning environment designed to help children understand concepts and master the skillls necessary to accelerate their growth and development.  If you are interested in our program or would like more information, please email our administrator at administrator@ameschristianschool.org or call the school at 515-233-0772. 

  

   On Thursday, December 9th, the inaugural One Starry Night Gala and Auction  will be held at the Iowa State University Memorial Union Great Hall starting at 6:30 p.m. with a half hour social time and silent auction.  At 7:00 p.m. the festivities will begin with dinner and live auction.  Everyone is invited to attend this elegant evening to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas and benefit ACS.  All proceeds will go directly to the school and will bless the children and families that cherish Christian education.  The evening will also include amazing entertainment by the talented Higher Power singing group.

   The silent and live auction will give everyone the opportunity to bid on some very unique packages.  The classes will be putting together themed baskets which are always fun for everyone. 

   The committee is currently looking for individuals or businesses that are interested in sponsoring a table of 8 for $500.   Please click here for more information on the levels of sponsorship and how you or your business can become a sponsor.  This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the birth of Christ with friends, family, and co-workers without having to clean your home or cook a meal!  Tickets will also be available for couples ($150) or individuals ($100).  To sponsor a table or purchase tickets, you can contact the office at 515-233-0772 or by e-mail at secretary@ameschristianschool.org.

"Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him." Matthew 2:2