“The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth.”- Psalm 145:18

In a world filled with worldly distractions, it is easy to forget why we are here in the first place. As Christians, we are called to pray and call onto God for guidance and trust. We are meant to connect with our community in a way that honors God. He is the keeper of all things and the bearer of our deepest thoughts and struggles (Psalm 121:5). He invites us to cast our worries unto Him (1 Peter 5:7).

At first glance, studying a second language might seem like just another academic subject. In actuality, language learning lifts students beyond their immediate surroundings and helps them see the world — and people — through a biblical worldview. In an academic setting, American Sign Language (ASL) is a valuable addition to the class offerings for students of all ages.

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” — 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18

You have laid the foundation but the journey is just beginning for your graduate. From their beginnings, you have continuously covered them in prayer with a watchful eye. Now, as they leave the nest, and continue to move forward, how can you help prepare their hearts and faith for the journey ahead? What steps can you take now to surround them with God’s grace and love? If you’re asking these questions, you’re not alone.

Standardized testing has long been a cornerstone of the college admissions process in the United States. Exams like the SAT and ACT have provided a uniform metric to assess students' academic readiness, complementing other application components such as GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal essays. However, the landscape of standardized testing is evolving, with significant changes on the horizon — most notably, the upcoming modifications to the ACT.

In the high-stakes world of college admissions, too many students and parents fall into the trap of viewing the process as a frantic senior-year dash to the finish line. They cram test prep, hastily join clubs, and scramble to find meaningful experiences — all while trying to craft the perfect application essays under immense pressure. Pivoting the mindset to seeing this process as a multiple-year endeavor allows students to craft an application “story” that showcases their strengths, talents, and interests.

Tom Gray, in partnership with Mount Paran Christian School, shared profound insights into the challenges facing Christian families today. As a pastor, community leader, and father, Gray offered a perspective shaped by decades of ministry and personal experience. This discussion, coupled with broader cultural reflections, highlights the pressing need for intentionality in cultivating faith-centered homes amidst a culture of distraction and misplaced priorities.

No one ever told me that grief felt so much like fear. -C.S. Lewis

Grief is a complex and deeply personal emotion that affects each of us differently. As adults, we may face a range of feelings — anxiety, fear, sadness, depression, and even a sense of insecurity or trembling. Often, we try to stay strong, yet we may resist surrendering our pain to God, believing we must handle it ourselves. While adults may have a better grasp of the concept of death and loss, children are still developing their understanding of these difficult experiences. As parents, caregivers, and mentors, it's essential to guide them through their grief in ways that are loving, supportive, and constructive.

Generosity is often seen as an act of kindness, but it’s more than that — it’s an overflow of gratitude. When we look at generosity through a Biblical lens, we see that it begins with thankfulness. God created a continuous gratitude-generosity loop in us. In simple terms, when we are thankful for kindness shown to us, that gratitude inspires our own compassion and generosity. The Bible beautifully illustrates this truth in Proverbs 11:24-25, showing us that a generous heart leads to abundance in return. Gratitude prepares our hearts to give and live generously.

As parents, we feel pressure to prioritize our children’s future — enrolling them in the best SAT prep courses, hiring the perfect pitching coach, and encouraging them to be involved in numerous clubs and activities. But do we place enough emphasis on opportunities to grow in faith and service? As we raise a generation of Christ-followers, we should empower students to become servant-leaders, following the example of Jesus Christ. One great way to accomplish this is through short-term mission trips.

It is evident by data collected and records received that MPCS alumni are continuing to be servant-leaders beyond graduation. Alumni are adhering to the mission of MPCS, one that seeks to “prepare servant-leaders to honor God, love others, and walk in Truth.” In a recent alumni survey, 72% indicated that MPCS played a significant role in preparing them to be servant-leaders while all agreed MPCS was an important part of their foundation. 

Graduation season is upon us, and with it comes sage advice for this year’s senior class from those who are older and perhaps a bit more experienced. Who better to offer wise words of wisdom for new graduates than those who have gone before? Mount Paran Christian School alumni share their advice for new graduates, from how to survive college to staying true to one’s self.

When a school takes its mission to heart, pouring into students and families with intention through the years, the results are graduating seniors who continue to live out the school mission years after turning the tassel. To maintain relationships with students who have reached alumni status, many schools build out alumni relations programs that continually keep the mission of the school at the forefront of the minds of the alumni community. But, just how can schools build a robust program that extends beyond the norm? At Mount Paran Christian School, through service opportunities and various partnerships, alumni are invited to keep living as servant-leaders to honor God, love others, and walk in Truth.

With the shift towards more technology in the classroom, it should come as no surprise that the majority of states—more than 40—no longer require handwriting instruction, especially cursive handwriting.

According to a report from 11Alive news, Georgia requires instruction of cursive writing, typically beginning in grade three. However, since cursive writing is not assessed at the state level and is left to local determination for assessment, in most Georgia schools, cursive writing is no longer being taught.

One of the many benefits of an independent school education is that school leadership has the freedom to choose curricula, which can include biblical teaching and religious discussions. The benefits of such an educational opportunity have an eternal impact on young lives, with students deepening their faith and developing servants’ hearts.

In this final installment of the “Letter to My Alma Mater” series, alumni share how their relationship with God transformed during their time at MPCS and how developing a strong belief system has shaped their future.

For this third installment of the “Letter to My Alma Mater” series, former MPCS athletes offer their perspectives on making the transition from the field to the real world. Along the way, these alumni have made the MPC Way a part of their core values, demonstrating humility, passion, integrity, relentless pursuit, and a commitment to excellence in all they do.

          Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images

From encouraging creative thinking to working collaboratively, from honing skills to building confidence, the arts provide both an outlet for expression and input for developing innate artistic talent.

For the second part of the “Letter to My Alma Mater” series, MPCS alumni share how participation in the arts at the school changed their lives and offer advice for aspiring artists.