McAlder Blog

As I was recently searching for a photo on my phone, I found myself scrolling through memories from this past year. What started as a quick search quickly turned into a walk through so many “firsts”—first moments, first memories, first challenges, and first celebrations. As I reflected, I was filled with gratitude for all that God has done through each one.

This past week marked my first anniversary of saying “yes” to McAlder Elementary and the Cascade Christian Schools family. What an incredible first year it has been! One of my favorite firsts has been getting to know our students and families: praying over you, hearing your stories, and sharing in both joys and challenges together. Thank you for welcoming me so warmly into this community and allowing me the privilege of partnering with you.

Another special first was beginning a school year with our amazing McAlder staff. From our teachers and instructional assistants to our office, kitchen, and maintenance teams, I have had a front-row seat to witness their incredible dedication and love for students. This year gave me a firsthand look at what makes McAlder so special: a staff that serves with excellence, humility, and a genuine love for Jesus. In my 26 years in education, I can honestly say that I cannot imagine serving alongside a more dedicated and Jesus-loving staff (Another first, for sure!).

This year also brought many unexpected firsts. There was our first experience with flooding in December and the creation of “McAlder Lake” on our field. There were first chapel services filled with worship and prayer (something that never happened during my years in public education). There were first opportunities to watch students boldly step into leadership in ways that inspired our entire school.

One of my favorite firsts this year was seeing our sixth-grade girls begin Prayer at the Tree and lead our weekly All School Openings. Their courage and excitement quickly sparked a first in many of our sixth-grade boys as well, who then stepped into leadership alongside the girls. One group of boys even created a first-of-its-kind cougar trophy for our Cougar Paws award using a 3D printer.

There were so many other memorable firsts this year: our first year launching driveline, our first Grandparents Day together, the first kindergarten Q & U Wedding I’ve experienced, and the first time having pies thrown in staff members’ faces for students reaching MAP goals! Each event, big or small, became part of the story that God was writing at McAlder this year.

As we prepare to finish our first school year together, I’m reminded of Philippians 1:6 (NIV):

“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”

What I love about this verse is that it begins with a first—“He who BEGAN.” God is a God of beginnings. He begins a good work in His people. Every step of faith, every act of kindness, every prayer, and every moment of growth often start with a first.

And perhaps the most important first of all is the first moment someone says “yes” to Jesus. The moment we invite Him into our hearts and place our trust in Him is the moment He begins His good work in us. Maybe for some, today could be that first. The first day of walking with Jesus. The first day of knowing His love, grace, and mercy in a new way. If you have never asked Jesus to be the Lord of your life, then all you have to do is ask Him. And by His grace, He will begin a good work in YOU, making this moment the most important “first” of your life.

As we near the end of the 2025–2026 school year, my prayer is that we would continue to embrace the firsts God gives us. First opportunities to pray and serve, first moments of courage, first steps of faith and forgiveness, and first chances to love others well. Thank you for allowing me to share so many meaningful firsts with you and your children this year. It has truly been a year I will treasure!