As the school year comes to an end, the class of ’21 is acknowledged during the 40th annual graduation, May 27. Fresno Christian sends off 47 seniors, 12 ‘lifers’ and 27 CSF members during the ceremony. The graduating class cumulated over $2,5 million in scholarships.
Fresno Christian Schools was first established in 1977 with a total of 135 students in grades K-6. Forty years ago, marked the first graduating class at FCS during 1981. Now FCS has a total of 556 students throughout grades K-12. The high school is run by superintendent Jeremy Brown, principal Amy Deffenbacher and vice-principal Scott Falk.
While the high school had a temporary drop in 2021, the school finished with 206 students. Next year the number is projected to rise to 230.
The class of ’21 gathers in the Peoples Church main auditorium for the 40th annual Fresno Christian graduation, May 27. Due to COVID-19, seniors are given 20 tickets for family and friends to attend the ceremony at 7 p.m.
The senior class of 2021 will be attending a variety of colleges which consist of Grand Canyon University located in Phoenix, Arizona, Fresno State, and State Center Community College District (SCCCD).
The California Scholarship Federation acknowledges 27 senior students during the CSF senior banquet, May 24. This year marks the biggest CSF graduating class with 27 seniors. The CSF 100% membership is made up of 16 seniors who have been a part of the program for seven plus year followed by highest honor (6 years) and life members (4+ years). The CSF scholarship award was given to Faith Monroy.
College academic counselor Evangelina Escovedo shares the strengths she has witnessed in the class of 2021!
“The class of 2021 is filled with students who are dedicated, driven and passionate. They will make a positive difference wherever they go.”
Seniors reflect on their time at Fresno Christian with memories and advice. To see more senior reflections, watch the video below.
Started FC in kindergarten
May 11, 2021
“I would tell my freshman self don’t try to please everybody because it just makes life harder and it isn’t possible,” Parker said. “My favorite memories are from cheer, whether that is cheer camp, competitions, games or becoming captain.”
Started FC in sophomore
May 11, 2021
“My favorite memory was quite possibly my biggest challenge,” Goldsborough shares. “Being a part of the drama production of Newsies was an amazing experience. Although it was a challenge for sure, I’m glad I took the opportunity. My parents have impacted my journey the most along with my siblings and close friends. They have encouraged me to pursue what. I’m passionate about and I’m grateful for that.”
Started FC in 2nd grade
May 11, 2021
“My biggest advice to other FCS students is to stay close to Jesus, even though it sounds cliche, ” Beckworth says. “My favorite memory was a year after Mr. Dodson left, he came back for homecoming and it was a very heartwarming moment.”
Started FC in junior year
May 11, 2021
“My biggest challenge was freshly moving to the states and still tried to figure out my path,” Pham said. “I was blessed with people that helped me and challenges that reveal my potential. My biggest advice to FCS students is don’t do drugs, don’t peer pressure anyone, say hi to people in the hallway, cherish your friend and be gracious. ”
Started FC in 7th grade
May 11, 2021
“My biggest advice t0 other students is to take harder classes and challenge yourself but have fun doing it,” Moate says. “My favorite memory at FCS is. attending football games and my biggest challenge is AP tests.”
Started FC in freshman year
May 11, 2021
“My favorite classes are worship, English 12, christian living, or strength and conditioning,” Moore shares. “I would tell my freshman self and other students to look at life always half full! It’s easy to complain and give up, however, it’s more impressive to see something through and work hard!”
Started FC in kindergarten
May 11, 2021
“My life after high school looks like moving to Canada in June and taking a gap year to get settled in,” Baker says. “My favorite memory is my freshman home ec class. Advice I’d give to my freshman self and others is to not give up and be authentically you!”
Started FC in freshman year
May 11, 2021
“After high school I’m spending my summer working at Hume Lake,” Friesen explains. “My biggest challenge was keeping up with The Feather and my favorite class was physical education. All my friends impacted my journey at Fresno Christian.”
Started FC in 8th grade during the second semester
May 11, 2021
“My journey at Fresno Christian has been impacted by Mr. Richards, Mr. Rojeski, Mrs. Foster and Mrs. Breshears,” Zhang shares. “My favorite memory is hanging out with fellow international students. I would tell my freshman self to shut up and work. My biggest advice to other FCS students is to be kind.”
Started FC in Kindergarten
May 11, 2021
“After high school, I am doing more schooling at Fresno State so I can become a biochemist,” Pimentel says. “There have been many people who’ve impacted my life. There are three teachers, First Mrs. Donaghe, Then Mr. Bucher, Last Mr. Cantu. They have been inspirations to me in the world of science and being more confident with myself.”
Reflection class of 2021 from The Feather Online on Vimeo.
Congratulations to the Class of 2021!
For more Feather photos, visit media, photos 2020-21.