KCS News & Happenings
The Jungle Book cast shines in memorable spring drama production
May 10, 2024
From its opening scene filled with howls, wolf shadows, and the surrounding presence of the Wolf Pack, The Jungle Book quickly captured the audience's attention, drawing them into the world of Mowgli's jungle. Directed by UH Professor of Theatre Mark Branner and assisted by Mrs. Branner, this year's spring drama production brought together a talented 38-member cast and crew, primarily comprised of 4th-12th grade students. The cast and crew worked for months to bring this classic story to life, from the meticulous crafting of wolf masks to the hours of rehearsals after school and on weekends. They enjoyed the fruit of their labor as their live performances, complete with humor, action, and suspense, entertained audiences on April 12-13.
Thanks to an amazing prop and design team, the Worship Center was transformed into the jungle, with lighting, music, and shadow puppets enhancing the immersive experience for the actors and audience. Several students in lead roles also acknowledged the transformation in themselves as they grew in their abilities to portray an animal character. Jacinda Ching '24 and Katelyn Hsieh '26 both credited the guidance of Mr. Branner and encouragement from cast members for helping them embrace their respective characters and overcome their nervousness and fears on stage. Jacinda reflected that she performed "a version of Shere Khan that is uniquely mine." Both girls enjoyed the experience of working with other grade levels and being part of a big production. Katelyn also added that "getting to see the audience's reactions on the performance day" was a highlight for her.
Students not only had the opportunity to grow individually in their skills and confidence but also to experience the power of theatre through sharing Mowgli's coming-of-age story. In reflecting on The Jungle Book, Mr. Branner said, "I am honored to have been able to create this production with the students of KCS. It is a special place – a place where 4th graders and 12th graders can work together in wonderful ways to tell a story well."
Alaska Mission Trip team reflects on an unforgettable experience
April 05, 2024
On Missions Emphasis Day, sandwiched between speakers focused on local and global missions, our high school mission trip team shared about their recent experience in Delta Junction, Alaska. From March 7-16, twenty-eight high school students and six chaperones, working with Pastors Caleb and Shayna Bialik of Summit Church, served in various capacities in a small town outside of Fairbanks. While the majority of their time was spent leading a weeklong Vacation Bible School (VBS), the team also led Sunday worship for two local churches and partnered with YoungLives to prepare meals and write cards for teen moms & dads.
Tytus Ahn '26, Paige Hamada '25, and Skye Fowler '24 spoke on behalf of the team, sharing highlights and takeaways from this opportunity to serve in the 49th state. All three mentioned relationship building as an impactful part of the trip. VBS provided ample time for students to connect with the fifty children who participated in the all-day activities. Students were stretched in their faith as they learned to share the gospel message and answer questions about God. Tearful goodbyes, hugs, and words of gratitude marked the last day of VBS, evidence of the meaningful experience for both our students and the children they interacted with. Skye reflected in awe of the team being "able to love people so much and so deeply," realizing the depth of God's love for us, which overflows to share with others through words and actions.
Despite the logistical and personal challenges the team faced during the trip, they saw God work through every situation. They braved freezing temperatures to enjoy the unique sights that Alaska has to offer, from a visit to the Santa Claus House to a glacier hike and tour of an ice museum. Special thanks to chaperone Miss Villanueva for putting together the highlight video below. Watch to the end to see how supporting the Alaska Mission Trip team has made a tangible difference to the people of Delta Junction!
Junior earns 2nd place in poetry contest, perpetuating a survivor's story
March 22, 2024
Through a powerful poem expressing a Holocaust survivor’s struggle with "how to remember," Elisha Kurian '25 earned second place in the high school poetry division of the 25th annual Holocaust Art and Writing Contest. The Rodgers Center for Holocaust Education at Chapman University, the 1939 Society, the Irving and Nancy Chase Endowment for Holocaust Education, the Samueli Foundation, and Yossie & Dana Hollander sponsor this prestigious international competition. This year, the contest drew entries from 220+ registered schools and thousands of students across the U.S. and nine other countries. Elisha's recognition as a finalist is the third for KCS, following Emily Kuwaye’s '19 winning poem in 2018 and Maile Fowler's '22 second-place poem in 2022.
The contest prompt challenged participants to identify a specific word, phrase, or sentence from the survivor’s testimony to explore and action to take in response to this call to memory. Utilizing descriptive language and specific details, Elisha's poem, "In Remembrance," captures Selene Bruk wrestling with the conflicting thoughts of forgetting and remembering when she finally returns to Poland. Ultimately, Selene's courageous resolve to remember "a way of life that will never be again" resonated with Elisha on a personal level, inspiring her to use her voice by "simply speaking up."
A photo of Elisha and Literature Teacher Mrs. Fong (above) was shared during the live stream presentation of the awards ceremony held on March 15 at Chapman University. For her second-place poem, Elisha received a $200 cash prize, while KCS and Mrs. Fong were also awarded $100 each. Bravo, Elisha, on your award-winning piece that answers the call to memory!
"Dream Lights" team honored with special recognition in local contest
January 26, 2024
This morning during lower chapel, representatives from American Savings Bank (ASB) recognized the 4th grade "Dream Lights" team for their entry into the 2023 KeikiCo Contest. Congratulations to Sarah Foraker, Lacey Lim, Emma Vallejo-Sanderson, and Ellie Yamamoto for working hard to bring their big idea to life! The team impressed the KeikiCo judges, who were pleased to award them with a Special Mention for their business plan and video pitch submitted last fall, earning KCS a cash prize of $2,500. Their dream light product, made from recycled plastic and available in different designs, was created to comfort people at night.
As we shared at the end of last year, ASB selected both Dream Lights and the middle school "Fertile Flowers" team as finalists in the People's Choice contest. While KCS did not win the voting contest, we were the only school to have multiple entries named as People's Choice finalists. Special thanks to everyone who submitted a vote on behalf of KCS! Michelle Bartell, ASB Director of Community Advancement, noted that this was "a great showing for the school's first time competing in KeikiCo." KCS is so proud of our young entrepreneurs!