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Volume 17, Issue 7

 

Andrews Academy's

Official Newsletter

September 1, 2023

 

No School on Monday

 

Since this Monday, September 4, is Labor Day, there is no school.

Enjoy the long weekend!

 

Fall Week of Prayer

 

Andrews Academy’s Fall Week of Prayer (August 28 - September 1, 2023) was presented by Pastor Tony Yang, the parent of a current student and a recent AA graduate. We were blessed to begin the school year by focusing on Jesus during Week of Prayer. We pray that each and every day of this school year will continue to be focused on Jesus.

 

Monday began our Fall Week of Prayer. The SA pastor, Kofi Amponsah, had the opening prayer. A number of students led out in song service. This was followed by an activity where students wrote praises on long sheets of paper. They were collected to be used later.

 

Pastor Tony Yang then adjusted our school theme a little to create a title for this week of prayer, “Eternity Starts: Right Here. Right Now.”  He asked us to consider what our favorite thing was. Then he asked, "Who is the best athlete? What comes first in your life?" He pointed out that we may have a favorite thing, but there are many other things that are close to our favorite. Likewise for the best and for the first. He then shared Matthew 6:33, “But seek ye first the Kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”  Some may at first see this as limiting our joy, instead by putting God first and letting Him, with His infinite wisdom, decide what these other things will be in our life that this will give us true joy! He concluded with a tasty illustration of listing ingredients like butter, sugar, flour, etc.—rather bland. However, if we let God be the master chef in our life and let Him put together the ingredients of our life, our “cake” (life) will be more beautiful than we could ever imagine!

 

Tuesday’s service began with prayer, group singing and then a special music by Zola Sibanda. Pastor Tony Yang challenged us to discover a ministry for our life that God has for us. He shared Exodus 4:2, where God used the staff that was in Moses’ hand to lead the children of Israel out of Egypt. He felt ill-equipped to do such a great task, but God used Moses’ talents to lead them out of Egypt. He shared Tony Melendez's story of a boy who was born without arms. He was a resilient boy who loved music, learning to play the guitar with his feet. He is now using his talent to witness to millions for Jesus. Remember that God uses what you already have; please use these talents for God’s ministry. Start your eternity right here right now!

 

On Wednesday, students wrote  prayer requests and added them to the prayer chain that began on Monday with a theme of praises. After singing, special music, and prayer, Pastor Tony Yang talked about the children of Israel leaving Egypt, crossing the Red Sea, and then entering the promised land by crossing the Jordan River. He pointed out some differences: the Red Sea had imminent danger while the Jordan River was not a time of imminent danger. God caused the Red Sea to part and then they entered in, while they stepped in the roaring waters of the Jordan River by faith in anticipation of crossing. He shared the details of Joshua 3:7-8 and 15-16. The Jordan River was in the spring flood season with waters probably roaring at 40 mph, after stepping in by faith, the waters stopped flowing about 20 miles upstream meaning water stopped flowing at their location about 30 min later. He applied this to our lives that when we step out in faith, and it looks like nothing is ready, have the confidence that God is way ahead of you preparing your way. Like the Israelites, take your step of faith into your “waters” knowing that God is steps ahead preparing a way for you to cross your “watery experience.”

 

Today's (Friday) program began with singing, special music, and time in small groups to pray for the prayer requests that were made on Wednesday. The concluding theme was on commitment, based on I Kings 6:11-13. Pastor Tony Yang suggested the proper interpretation may be “we will do” followed by “we will hear,” instead of what is the tradition wording in many translations, of “we will do” and “we will obey.” He pointed out there are two types of relationships:

More photos on FB
Song Video on FB
  1. Consumer relationships, where we learn the facts then make a commitment, like learning about the product you will buy and then buying.

  2. Covenantal relationships, where we decide to be committed even though we don’t know everything first and then learn more details. This matches the “we will do” and then “we will hear” of the text. He encouraged us to step out and make the commitment, listening to God, and then learning more.

Pastor Yang encouraged students to make a commitment to decide to be baptized, which is a display of your inward decision. He made a call for people to come forward if they were wanting to have this covenantal relationship with our God.

 

Senior Class Meeting

 

On Monday, September 11, there will be a meeting after school (3:30) in the chapel. We will practice for Senior Convocation, which is Tuesday, September 12, at 9:50 AM.

 

Also, in that meeting, we will go over expectations and information for senior trip. You will sign up for rooms at that time. Please plan to be there.

 

Two Factor Authentication Device & School Laptop Loans


When logging into school computers and AU email, students are now required to use the two factor USB authentication device that has been provided by the school. Most students have already received and installed the device.

 

Please sign the technology form (attached in case your student did not bring one home), indicating if your student would like to take home a school-owned laptop for use during the school year, and/or noting that they received (or will receive) the required two factor USB device, and return the form to the main office. Students, if you have not yet received at two-factor device, please stop by the main office.

School laptops will be loaned with a signed form from the student. Parents and students, be sure to read the second page of information, the Authorized User Policy, which includes replacement costs for lost or damaged laptops and two factor devices.

 

Virtual Parent Meeting


You are invited to our Parent Meeting on Zoom on Thursday, September 14, at 6:30 PM.

Meeting ID: 912 9107 7600

Passcode: 332717

Zoom Link
 

SA School Picnic/Beach Day

This Wednesday, September 6, 8:30 AM - 3:15 PM

Just like a regular school day, attendance is required.

Everyone get excited for our annual beach day! Beach Day will occur this Wednesday, September 6, starting at 8:30 AM and ending at 3:15 PM.

Be sure to come to school in appropriate beach day attire and feel free to bring the following:

  • towels
  • sand toys for our sand castle class contest
  • a swimsuit
  • sunscreen
  • a change of clothes.

However, please make sure that your clothes and swimsuit follow the school guidelines in the Sourcebook (pg. 83).


Food will be provided, but if you have special dietary needs, you may bring your own. Get ready for a fun day bonding with your classmates and a day off of school!

If you are taking a college class during the day, please arrange for transportation with Mr. Sherman on Tuesday. Students are not allowed to drive themselves to beach day or their college class.

 

Student Association Campout


The SA campout will take place from September 8-10. There will be an orientation meeting this Wednesday, September 6, at 8:00 AM for those who are signed up to attend.

 

School Vs Senior Flag Football Games

 

Tuesday, September 12, Girls' Game starting at 5:30 PM, Boys' game immediately follows, at the Academy field

 

Mrs. Mills needs a list of teams by Friday, September 8. Sign up sheets are on the gym door.

 

***MUST be coached by an adult that is verified by Mrs. Mills at all practices

The school team must have at least 1 representative from each class on the team.

Flag Football Rules
 
 

FACTS or Andrews Email Log In Help


If you need help logging in to FACTS or help with your Andrews email and password, please contact Mrs. Meekma (ginam@andrews.edu) in the main office.

You can find your schedule, grades, etc. on FACTS.

 

After-School Hours Agreement


The After-School Hours Agreement needs to be signed by a student and a parent. Here are the acceptable ways to return this document (if you haven't already done so):

  • Complete the attached fillable document and email to ginam@andrews.edu.
  • Print the attached document, complete it, scan or take a picture, and email it to ginam@andrews.edu (or turn it in to the school office).
  • Stop by the school office and complete the form.
 

Hot Lunch Contracts


Andrews Academy
School Lunch Program

2023-2024

 

Dear Parents and Guardians,


Bon Appetit at Andrews University is honored to have the opportunity to provide your child with delicious meals that promote health and wellness. Our chef-driven food is alive with flavor and nutrition and always prepared from scratch. We take the care of your student very seriously, and thank you in advance for placing your trust in us.

  • Full Paying Meal Plan ($6.35 per meal)

We are pleased to inform you that this year participating in the school lunch program will continue to be as easy as last year! You can simply give us (Dining Services) a call, and provide the student’s name, ID# and the amount you would like added to their meal plan, and your credit card information. You may also stop by our (Dining Services) office to add funds using a credit or debit card. You may add as much money as you would like; however, a minimum of $100.00 is required to get the account started. A week of meals is $31.75, a month is $127.00, a five-week month is $158.75. We are unable to accept cash. The cashier will let the student know when funds are low, and it is the student's responsibility to notify their parents. Please note that you must contact Dining Services in order for your child to participate in the program, even if they participated last year.

  • Reduced Meal Plan

The contract and application are attached. We also have copies in the AA office. They must be filled out and returned to Dining Services ASAP. Please provide your student with a lunch until your application is approved. Proof of income is required, so please see the application for details. We are unable to accept cash. Student is allowed one swipe per day. 

  • Free meals will no longer be offered.

Students must present their ID card for meal pickup. Portion sizes are predetermined, and second servings are not provided. All meals now include the house legume and whole grain brown rice. Students are expected to behave appropriately while in the service area. Disciplinary action will be taken as needed. 

 

Your feedback is always welcomed. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us.


It is our greatest pleasure to serve our youth!


Your School Lunch Team at Bon Appetit
 

E-mail: ds@andrews.edu

Phone: 269-471-3161 

Fax: 269-471-3789


Dining Services Office located on the first floor of the AU Campus Center.

Monday–Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

 

Note: The menu is posted in the display case at school as well as towards the end of the E-Sanjo each week. Students who are signed up for the hot lunch program and would like the Friday boxed lunch will need to sign up in the office or at lunch by Wednesday at 2 PM.

 

Important Attendance Information

  • Pre-arranged Absences: Please be sure to fill out a pre-arranged absence card if you know in advance that you will be missing school due to a doctor/dentist/orthodontist appointment, trip, basketball tournament, driver's test, etc. These cards can be found in the main office or online. A parent's signature is required, then the office, and teacher(s) of the class(es) that you will miss.
  • Class Schedule Adjustment (CSA) Requests: A CSA is available for students who have a study hall at the beginning or ending of the school day or will be working during a study hall during the school day. A CSA is required for students who leave the Academy to attend classes at Andrews University, who are going to work off campus, or who wish to begin the school day later or leave earlier on a regular basis. The CSA request form must be filled out and signed by everyone indicated on the form before the student stops attending their study hall. Students must adhere to CSA guidelines that are printed on the CSA application. Any violation may cause the CSA to be revoked. I will email students and parents when a CSA is approved.

  • Other Absences: Parents, please call the front office (269-471-3138) or email aaattendance@andrews.edu if your student is going to be absent or tardy. These are the preferable methods.

Please provide the reason why your child will not be attending school and how long you think they will be out.


Parents/Guardians are the only authorized individuals who can excuse a student's attendance. When emailing, parents must send correspondence from their email account to maintain the validity of the request. Please include the name of the student.

From the Sourcebook (pg. 83):

Students who miss three (3) consecutive school days due to illness must provide written documentation from a certified medical professional corroborating the necessity of that absence.

For any attendance questions that you would like to ask by email, please direct these questions to aaattendance@andrews.edu.
 

Thank you!

 

Ms. Leslie Nieves
Guidance Counselor/Attendance Officer
Andrews Academy
269-471-3453

 

Textbook Information

Be sure to check to see if used options are available.

 
 
 
 

AA Uniforms Available from Lands' End

 

Uniforms can be purchased from Lands’ End, including for PE. Click on the option(s) that you would like, then choose the size (kid or adult). Please be mindful that Andrews Academy is not responsible for your orders.

 

We do have a limited supply of uniforms for sale at AA (cash or check only) during office hours.

AA's Lands' End Store

Please review the Sourcebook (pgs 79-81) for more information regarding uniforms. Only approved logoed uniform wear is allowed. A solid-color, long sleeved undershirt may be worn under the AA short-sleeved polo (no writing should be visible on the undershirt). If a student is wearing an AA logoed jacket, they should also have an AA logoed shirt underneath. Only AA logoed jackets are allowed to be worn in the building.

 

The PE uniform can only be worn during PE class.

 

School Communications

 

The E-Sanjo and other communications from the school, including classroom teacher communications, use the email address(es) that you (and your parents) have recorded in FACTS when you registered for Andrews Academy. We will also use students' AU email address. Some have been wondering why they are not receiving their school communications to a certain email. If you wish to have communications sent to a specific email address, please send the change to ginam@andrews.edu. Thank you!

 

Tuition

 

Tuition payment #2 is due on September 25.

Please contact Ms. Gracie at gaytan@andrews.edu with questions.

 

Dedication Convocation Service

 

The first Sabbath of the school year (August 26, 2023) is when the Academy has a dedication service for the year. The school year's theme and banner was unveiled, "Eternity Starts Here." The text on which the theme is based is Ecclesiastes 11:3.

 

Dedication and Litany preceded the sermon. A student, two teachers, and two parents led in each of the components of the "Dedication Litany and Prayer" to begin our school year. The scripture was read in six different languages, reflecting the diversity that the school enjoys.

 

Vice Principal, Mrs. Girlie Aguilar presented the sermon, "Eternity Starts Here," sharing how many of our church leaders began their ministry in their teen years. She asked us to pray for our school, that each student will experience their eternity starting here at AA. Earlier in the program, the principal and board chair led in the installation of the new vice principal.

 

A haystack meal followed as we enjoyed fellowship and food. Thank you to our principal, Pastor Feguson, and to PPI for organizing this meal, and thank you to each participant.

 

Please continue to pray that we will have a blessed year.

 

Please go to Facebook for many more photos of this special service.

More photos on FB
 
 

Attention: If you would like Friday's boxed lunch, those who are signed up for the lunch program must order it each week by Wednesday at 2:00 PM. The sign-up sheet will be at lunch or in the front office.

To sign up for the lunch program or add funds to your student's account, please contact Andrews University's Dining Services at ds@andrews.edu or call 269-471-3161. The Dining Services Office is located on the first floor of the AU Campus Center.

Monday–Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM

 

Labor Day Savings!

20% OFF School Uniforms

August 31 - September 4, 2023

 

CODE: PLAY
PIN: 4599

  • www.landsend.com

  • Enter school name and city/state (or use Preferred School # 900150871).

  • After selecting “Andrews Academy,” select “Shop for this School.”

 

Andrews University Basketball Program

Due to the recent heat and lack of A/C in the AA gym, tryouts for Sunday will take place at Johnson Gym on the Campus of Andrews University. Follow the Andrews Jr Cardinals Athletics Facebook page for more information.

 
 
2023-24 Year-at-a-Glance Calendar
2023-24 Calendar
 

Mondays - Thursdays:
7:40 AM - 4:00 PM

Fridays: 7:40 AM - 2:00 PM

 

CONTACT US:

Main Office: ginam@andrews.edu or call 269-471-3138
Principal: aaprincipal@andrews.edu or mferguson@andrews.edu
Vice Principal: girlie@andrews.edu

Application/Enrollment Process: aaadmissions@andrews.edu

Financial Questions: gaytan@andrews.edu

Class Schedule: aaregistrar@andrews.edu

Attendance: aaattendance@andrews.edu

Guidance Counselor: nievesl@andrews.edu

Faculty & Staff Contact Info
 
Useful Documents
Sourcebook (revised 2021-22)
 

Andrews Academy

8833 Garland Ave Berrien Springs, MI 49104

 

 

academy@andrews.edu

 

269-471-3138