Lower School - 10/16
Dear Lower School Families,
As the seasons change and the leaves remind us of God’s artistry in creation, our classrooms and hallways are alive with that same sense of transformation. We’ve reached the point in the school year when routines are established, friendships are deepening, and the growth we prayed for at the start of the year is beginning to show.
Our teachers are intentionally helping every student move from surviving to thriving. Whether in math class, chapel, or the Maker Space, students are being guided to think deeply, act courageously, and live compassionately. They are not just memorizing facts—they’re learning to apply wisdom, collaborate effectively, and solve problems that matter.
Parents often tell us they can feel the difference here, and that is by design. Every child is known, prayed for, and encouraged to grow spiritually, intellectually, and emotionally. We also want you to know that YOUR presence matters. It’s what gives Maranatha its heartbeat. Whether you're cheering from the sidelines, volunteering at events, speaking at a lower school chapel, or simply praying for our students, please know how deeply we value your partnership. Together, we’re modeling for our students what it looks like to build a life—and a community—on Christ, the Rock.
As we look toward Thanksgiving and the second quarter, we’re reminded that this is a time to pause and give thanks for how far we’ve come—and to prepare our hearts for what God has ahead. From upcoming concerts and service opportunities to our academic milestones, there is so much to celebrate.
We are continually inspired by your children—their creativity, their faith, and their growing sense of purpose. Thank you for entrusting us with their education and spiritual formation. It is a sacred partnership and one we hold with great gratitude.
In His Service,
Dr. Rachel David
Lower School Principal
Laura Shaw (Art Teacher)
X-Tended Day Registration
If your family is in need of care beyond the school day, we invite you to register for MCA’s X-Tended Day program. This program provides students with a safe, loving, and Christ-centered environment after school hours.
In addition to daily care, students have the opportunity to join a variety of Enrichment Clubs—including cheer, robotics, LEGO building, art, and more! These activities allow students to explore their interests and grow in community with peers.
Registration for X-Tended Day opened on August 15.
Visit our X-Tended Day Webpage to view:
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Pricing information
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Drop-In Care details
Release Days
Half Days
We look forward to partnering with you in extending both care and enrichment opportunities for your child at MCA!
If you have additional questions, please reach out to:
Lettie Fundanét (PreK) - lettie.fundanet@mcamustangs.org
Dane Wellens (K–Grade 4) - dane.wellens@mcamustangs.org
Alyssa Faust (Grade 5–6) - alyssa.faust@mcamustangs.org
Monthly Focus: October is National Bullying Awareness Month
This week, we invite you to take a moment to continue to talk with your children about what it means to move from being a bystander to an upstander! This means choosing to act — not just stand by — when we see someone in need of help. Role-playing is a great way to practice “what if” scenarios, helping children plan and prepare to respond with courage and kindness.
Joshua 1:9 — “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Upcoming Events:
In October, I’ll be visiting our K–Grade 4 classrooms for our "Bullying Awareness" guidance lesson. During this lesson, students will learn:
Definition of Bullying
Types of Bullying
The Impact of Bullying
Steps to Recognize, Report, and Refuse Bullying
Counselor Resources:
Check out the books below that focus on spreading kindness and bullying awareness to read/process with your student(s):
- Be Kind by Pat Miller
- The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig
- Strictly No Elephants by Lisa Mantchev
Check out these resource guides below that focus on bullying prevention strategies:
- Bystander Tips: What to Do When You See Bullying
- Raising Your Child to Be an Upstander, Not a Bystander
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Please contact me at katie.welhouse@mcamustangs.org if you would like your child to receive services or to inquire for more details! I look forward to partnering with you and getting to know your student(s) more this school year!
A Prayer for Kindness
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for making each one of us special.
You made us all different, and that’s a wonderful thing.
Please help us to treat everyone with kindness and respect.
If we see someone being bullied, help us to be brave and kind.
Give us the courage to stand up for others and speak with love.
If we are feeling hurt or left out, remind us that You are always with us
Please help the kids who bully, too.
Maybe they are hurting inside, help them find better ways to act.
Fill our school with kindness, love, and friendship.
Let our words build people up, not tear them down.
Let every student feel safe, accepted, and loved.
Thank You for helping us do what’s right.
In Jesus’ name I pray,
Amen.
