McAlder Blog

As we wind down the final days of the 2024-25 school year, I find myself reflecting on the many ways in which we have been able to apply our spiritual theme of “Be Still” throughout the year. And, interestingly, we have had the opportunity to experience the second phrase of the theme, “even when,” to a greater degree than we may have liked and/or chosen.  

We had the opportunity to be still, even when it took way longer than anticipated to receive approval from the City of Puyallup to place portable classrooms on Pioneer Campus for Puyallup Elementary.

We had the opportunity to be still, even when various athletic seasons ended sooner than we wanted them to.

We had the opportunity to be still, even when we didn’t perform as well as we had hoped on final academic assessments.

We had the opportunity to be still, even when we experienced extreme losses or hardships.

We had the opportunity to be still, even when we were tempted to be angry, frustrated, or doubtful.

The bottom line is that life can bring us many “even when” moments. However, when they do come, we can lean into God’s goodness, God’s peace, God’s strength, God’s comfort, and a long list of other attributes God equips us with for the moments we are experiencing. My prayer for us all is that we would continue to “Be Still” in whatever form is warranted as we experience all that life brings us and that we would maintain the confidence that God is faithful and will not let us be tempted beyond what we can bear (1 Corinthians 10:13).

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

In His service and with deep gratitude,

Ken 

As the school year draws to a close, we find ourselves looking back with full hearts and deep gratitude. It has truly been a year marked by transition and growth, grace and grit, and, above all, a powerful sense of community.

Our theme this year, “Be Still,” was more than just a phrase—it was an anchor. In the midst of changes and new beginnings, it served as a reminder for us to pause, to trust, and to recognize the steady hand of God at work in our school. From quiet moments in the classroom to the bustle of schoolwide events, this theme helped center us, shape our responses, and renew our purpose.

One of the most beautiful parts of this year has been the way our parent community has engaged with and supported McAlder. Your generosity, your presence, and your investment in our mission have made a profound difference. Whether helping behind the scenes or cheering from the audience, you have shown what it means to build something meaningful together.

To our teachers and staff—you have been unwavering in your faithfulness. With courage and compassion, you met each day with the resolve to love and lead our students well. You've shown up not only in your responsibilities but also in spirit, living out the mission of CCS with integrity and joy.

Among the many highlights of the year, our Christmas and spring programs stand out as shining moments. These celebrations reminded us of the creativity and unique God-given gifts in every student. The joy, beauty, and wonder on display were testaments to both their growth and the incredible dedication of our faculty.

And we’re not done yet! We’re eagerly looking forward to our annual Field Day on June 9, a beloved tradition that brings energy and fun to the final stretch of school. And on June 10, we’ll mark important milestones with Kindergarten Graduation and 6th Grade Promotion—special celebrations of how far our students have come and the bright futures that await them.

As I wrap up this year in the role of interim principal, I do so with a heart full of thanks. It has been a true privilege to lead this community through such a pivotal season. I am grateful for every challenge that shaped us, every moment that reminded us of God's presence, and every person who made this year what it was.

Thank you, McAlder family, for your prayers, your support, and your unwavering commitment to this shared journey. May your summer be restful, joyful, and filled with God's peace.