The Crusader
Monday, September 14, 2026
Our Core Values - Gratitude
Here's some practical application: Start each day with intentional thanksgiving and see if you start reacting to challenging circumstances differently.
Filling your mind with gratitude can actually prevent stress. If your hypothalamus has been triggering the release of oxytocin (the relaxing hormone that helps us think clearly and calms our fight or flight responses) it will take a much higher dose of cortisol (the stress hormone that helps us act instinctively without rational thought) to put us into a stressed state.
We still have a few copies of the book Saving Our Children in a World Gone Crazy in the school office. We'd love to give one to you. Just stop by and ask.
Elementary Insights
Celebrating our First Super Improvers!
We are excited to celebrate our first two students to level up in our Super Improvers Incentive Program for students in grades 2–5 at CCA! Congratulations to 2nd grader Lilly Polson (left) and 4th grader McKenna Deteau (right), who have both moved from Page to Squire...our very first students to reach a new level this year!
The Super Improvers Program is designed to encourage students to recognize that improvement comes through effort, perseverance, and a willingness to grow. Rather than focusing solely on grades or academic achievement, the program celebrates students for making positive improvements in areas such as academics, behavior, work habits, responsibility, and character. Students work toward their individual goals and earn recognition as they demonstrate growth.
At CCA, we have given the program a special Crusader twist! Each level is connected to our Crusader theme, creating a fun journey for students as they work their way toward the highest honor. Students begin as a Page and can progress through the following levels:
Page → Squire → Sentinel → Herald → Archer → Champion → Knight → Warrior → Guardian → Crusader
We believe that growth extends far beyond the classroom and want our students to grow in character and in their walk with Christ. As students work toward each new level, we hope they learn that true success isn't simply about reaching the next title but is about becoming the best version of themselves and honoring God through their effort and growth.
Congratulations, Lilly and McKenna, on being our first Super Improvers to level up! We can't wait to see who will be next to advance on the road to Crusader!
This Month at a Glance
Herff Jones Meeting for Juniors & Seniors | September 15
Herff Jones will be on campus Tuesday, September 15, at 9:00am to meet with the juniors and seniors. Juniors will receive information about ordering class rings, and seniors will be able to start placing regalia orders. Please be on the lookout for additional information that will be sent home.
Fun Run Extravaganza: Calling All Business Sponsors!
We are looking for local businesses and community partners to sponsor CCA’s 2026 Fun Run Extravaganza! Sponsorships will support our Future Growth & Improvement Initiative. Sponsorships are being accepted through October 9, with sponsorship information and payment due by this Friday, September 18, to be featured on this year’s Fun Run T-shirt. If you're interested in being a sponsor, please contact Jo Dillard or Jessica Keever. See the sponsorship letter below for more information!
Teacher's Convention - September 23-25 | No School
Our teachers will be attending the 2026 Southeast Christian School Convention on September 23–25. Therefore, school will be closed during this time. Daycare and KidzKare will remain available during these dates. KidzKare is only available for students in K5-6th grade. If you need KidzKare for your child, please be sure to sign up using the link below.
Make Up Picture Day - September 28
Fall Picture Make-Up Day will be Monday, September 28, for any students who were absent on our original Picture Day and still need to have their fall photo taken.
This Week in Crusader Athletics
Monday, September 14
Home Games vs. St. Stephens
- 5/6 Volleyball @ 4:30
- 7/8 Volleyball @ 5:30
Tuesday, September 15
Home Games vs. Tabernacle Conquerors
- JV Volleyball @ 4:30
- V Volleyball @ 5:45
- V Soccer @ 4:30
Away Games @ Millersville Lions
- 5/6 Volleyball @ 4:00
- 7/8 Volleyball @ 5:00
High School Cross Country @ Gaston Christian - 4:00
Middle School Cross Country @ Millersville - 4:30
Thursday, September 17
Away Games @ Morganton Day
- 7/8 Volleyball @ 4:00
Friday, September 18
Home Games vs. Vandalia Vikings
- V Volleyball @ 4:30
- V Soccer @ 4:30
Monday, September 21
Home Games vs. Southview Conquerors
- JV Volleyball @ 4:30
- V Volleyball @ 5:45
- V Soccer @ 4:30
Away Games @ Tabernacle Conquerors
- 5/6 Volleyball @ 4:30
- 7/8 Volleyball @ 5:30
Upcoming Dates to Remember
- Teacher's Convention - September 23-25
- Make-Up Picture Day - September 28
- Homecoming - October 2
- Fun Run Extravaganza - October 9
- 11th Grade PSAT - October 13 & October 15
- Teacher Workday/No School - October 16
- 12th Grade SAT - October 20
- 1st Quarter Report Cards Issued - October 26
- Academy of the Arts - October 26-30
- Thanksgiving Break - November 23-27
- 1/2 Day for Cramerton Parade - December 3
- Middle School Christmas Spectacular - December 11
- MS & HS Exams - December 16 - 18
- Elementary Christmas Program - December 18
- Christmas Break - December 21 - January 4