Class of 2022 begins four year journey

As students begin another year of high school, new, fresh faces appear in the hallways. Freshmen and new arrivals anticipate a year of opportunities despite fears.

Plans for their next chapter are already in motion. Expectations vary but many teens are ready to engage in clubs and classes.

Returning vice principal and Bible teacher, Scott Falk, shares what it’s like coming back after 10 years away and why he enjoys teaching new students.

“A lot has changed since I left, mostly new staff, teachers, and families,” Falk said. “I like teaching freshmen because they are full of energy and enthusiasm. Things are new to them – they are on an adventure. I get to be along on the ride. The incoming freshmen are doing great as far as I can tell. I can only measure it by my classes. I am encouraged by them and I’m looking forward to following their high school careers at FC.”

With 53 students, the class of 2022 is the biggest freshmen group in eight years. The class of 2010 included 41 students, and began a series of classes under 50 until this present grade of freshmen.

Sharing her experience as a junior high student, varsity cheerleader Ashley Logan, ‘22, explains factors of staying at FCS versus switching schools.

“I came here in seventh grade,” Logan said. “I stayed for high school because I love going to a school where I’m surrounded by other Christians to help build my faith. Plus, my sister is in eighth grade and my mom (Michelle Logan) works here as the office manager.”

David Tuck, ‘22, used to participate in homeschooling along with others in his grade. Tuck talks about his favorite classes and some upcoming goals for himself.

“Publications and choir are my favorite classes because I love to write and I sing in my church’s worship team, so I love that I get to sing at school,” Tuck said. “I think all schools have their ups and downs, but this is great considering how private schools go and I enjoy it so far. My goals would be to start a book club on campus and joining track or cross country.”

As the students enter high school, new opportunities await them. Homecoming, formal, and varsity sports often cause nerves and excitement for the incoming freshmen class.

New student, Brooklynn Anderson, ‘22, hopes to engage with her class and get involved with campus activities. Anderson looks forward to her first year and making memories.

“I used to be homeschooled, so it’s nice to have the ability to try new activities that I couldn’t do before,” Anderson said. “I’m interested in doing a few sports too. My favorite class is history because it’s really interesting to learn about geography, which I love, and how it entwines with history.”

FC lifer, Olivia Tucker, ‘22, explains what things she enjoys about school. Experiencing a few challenges, Tucker improves academically with the help of teachers and peers.

“I had fears coming into high school, but now I don’t anymore,” Tucker said. “I love being in varsity cheer now that I’m a freshmen, and enjoy seeing all my friends. I like how the teachers are all helping me especially Mrs. (Kristina) Breshears because math is really hard for me.”

Tucker’s parents, went to FCS as well, from freshmen to senior year. Alumna Nicole Tucker mentions why they enrolled Tucker and what they liked about starting high school there.

“I realized as a parent how amazing my experience was, even though as a young adult I specifically remember saying I would never send anyone to FCS,” Nicole said. “I wanted my kids to have the same experience too. We had so many great teachers who poured into us.”

World history teacher Robert Foshee, gives advice for incoming freshmen. After being involved with the school for 20 years, Foshee mentors and teaches freshmen on a daily basis.

“The more freshmen can get involved in and extracurricular activities the better,” Foshee said. “By joining different groups, students can get know different people and can try out more things to see what they like. I think good advice is to practice good organization.

“By being organized with a planner and a binder, students can avoid being overwhelmed when there are more assignments and projects,” Foshee continued. “Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zones, whether it’s in chapel, getting involved or talking to others about Jesus. Just because you’re young it doesn’t mean you can’t make an impact on someone else.”

Passionate about an activity? Find a teacher to be an advisor and submit a proposal and application to the office. In some cases, it may not be too late to join a current club or activity.

For more information, contact student leadership in room 608 or the office downstairs.

For more on last year’s freshmen class, read Freshmen discuss their fears. For more articles, read Campus student body anticipates first home football game.

Morgan Parker can be reached via email and via Twitter.