Education

Story by Rob Gettys

Thirteen upperclassmen sat on Highland View Academy’s (HVA) chapel stage late last year and faced their principal, Rob Gettys, who asked them to remind the audience of the four characteristics they were being recognized for that day. With the National Honor Society (NHS) crest highlighted over their heads, they collectively responded with, “service, leadership, and character,” before stalling on the last essential characteristic of an NHS member. The new inductees nervously glanced at each other before senior Desmond Nana remembered the very first standard that made them eligible to apply, and laughingly responded, “academics!”

Loriann Korley

Story by Esther Hernandez

Have you ever met someone whose kindness is like a beacon, illuminating the lives of those around them? Loriann Korley (pictured above), a Blue Mountain Academy (BMA) junior, is that rare soul who leaves everyone pondering the profound impact of a simple act of kindness.

Faculty and staff at BMA have witnessed Korley’s kindness firsthand. Matthew White, a math teacher, notes, “I have noticed how she is often singing or humming an uplifting spiritual song.”

During a history class trip and various in-campus activities, Gay Tanamal, the finance treasurer, observed Korley’s leadership talents. “She goes out of her way to help others,” he says.

Zaida Galva (in robe) and her friends lead students in praise and worship during the baptismal celebration.

Story by Zaida Galva

I can definitely say coming to Shenandoah Valley Academy (SVA) was a God-worked plan. My name is Zaida Galva, and I am a senior from New York City, a place where you are confronted with lots of challenges on a daily basis. City life is extremely fast-paced, and you never really have a chance to establish deep relationships with those around you. That all changed when I arrived at SVA.