McAlder Blog

As we step into the Christmas season, I’m reminded of Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 3:17–19, where he asks that we would be “rooted and established in love” and come to grasp the vastness of Christ’s love for us. Christmas brings that truth into sharp focus. God’s love is not distant or abstract; it is embodied in Jesus, given to us so we might know Him deeply and personally.

This month, I’ve seen glimpses of that love reflected all throughout our school community—in laughter, in joy, and in the sweet togetherness that makes this place feel like family. Here are a few highlights:

A Season of Joy, Laughter… and Pie! 
Our recent pie fundraiser was a perfect example of joyful community. Students were buzzing with excitement to raise money for our school and for the moment they’d been waiting for: THE PIE THROWING! There’s something wonderfully unifying about watching students belly laugh as a teacher takes a pie to the face. The joy was contagious. Whether students were bravely participating or eagerly watching from the crowd, the shared laughter reminded us of how good it is to celebrate together.

Christmas Stories Come to Life 
Walking through the hallway lately feels like stepping into a Christmas storybook. Classroom doors are decorated with scenes inspired by beloved Christmas tales like A Charlie Brown Christmas and The Nutcracker. Each door is a creative expression of the season and a reminder of the joy and anticipation this time of year brings.

Christmas Shoppe Excitement 
This week, students are enjoying one of the most cherished traditions of the season—our Christmas Shoppe. It is so sweet to see students carefully choosing gifts for parents, siblings, grandparents, and friends. They shop with such pride, knowing they get to give something special to the people they love.

Upcoming Christmas Performances 
The holiday season also brings opportunities for students to shine on stage as they share the message and music of Christmas. Students have been practicing with excitement (and a little bit of nervous energy) and are ready to share songs and stories that help point our hearts back to Jesus. Please mark your calendars for the following performance dates and times:

Monday, December 15

Kindergarten–Grade 1: Dress Rehearsal/Matinee at 10:00 a.m. & Evening 
    Performance at 6:30 p.m.

Tuesday, December 16

KPrep: Performance at 10:00 a.m.

Wednesday, December 17
Grades 2–3: Dress Rehearsal/Matinee at 9:00 a.m. & Evening Performance at 6:30 p.m.

Thursday, December 18
Grades 4–5 and selected 6th graders: Dress Rehearsal/Matinee at 9:00 a.m. & Evening Performance at 6:30 p.m.

Partnering With Families—Now and in the Years Ahead 
As we approach the time of year when families consider Continuous Enrollment, I want to take a moment to share how deeply grateful I am for you. Partnering with families is one of the greatest joys of this work. It is a privilege to nurture, teach, guide, and encourage your students as they grow academically and spiritually.

Your trust matters. Your commitment to Christian education matters. And your partnership is what makes this school feel like a community grounded in purpose and love. My desire is to continue that partnership for years to come, and to keep cheering on your children, helping them discover their God-given gifts.

As we celebrate this Christmas season and the birth of our Savior, Jesus, may we be, as Paul prayed, rooted deeply in God’s love, strengthened by it, and compelled to share it. I wish you a Christmas season filled with joy, peace, and the love of Christ.