It’s a little hard for me to believe that the first semester of the 2023/2024 school year is coming to a close. It feels like not too long ago we were sitting in convocation, comparing schedules and trying to shake the first-day jitters. It’s exciting to think about all of the fun things the second semester has in store, but I’d hate to miss this opportunity to remember the things we’ve done so far!

When I came to Fresno Christian as a second grader, I remember looking up to the “big kids” in the high school building so much. They all seemed so cool, smart and talented. I dreamed about being in their shoes because they seemed to have it all figured out. I guess now I am one of those “big kids,” but I definitely don’t have it all figured out. Yes, I know where I’m going next year. (Future GCU Student-LOPES UP!)

Yes, I know what I want to major in (pray for me during nursing school exams). But at the end of the day, I still feel oddly similar to how I did when I was singing songs on the carpet of Denise Tally’s classroom. I think we can all agree that high school is not how sitcoms portray it. The long hours studying and anxiously checking PowerSchool aren’t as glamorous as the picture-perfect final four years I anticipated. Honestly, it’s better. It’s more real.

Let’s talk about the things we’ve experienced as a community so far this year. Most of my favorite first semester memories revolve around our epic sports seasons. I mean, between volleyball, cross country, tennis, and football, Fresno Christian kind of dominated. I couldn’t be prouder of our athletes and the way they shine their lights on and off the court, field, and track. Our student section showed up and cheered our teams to victory time after time. There’s nothing like it, and I’m definitely going to miss it.

Remember homecoming? What a blast! To be honest with you guys, the weeks leading up to it were some of the most overwhelming of my life, but looking back they were some of the most exciting and rewarding. I don’t think I’ll ever forget late night Royal Battle rehearsals with the other king and queen candidates, witnessing some entertaining games during princess pageants, and dressing up with friends.

Homecoming night was a blur, but so much fun. We had some of the coolest floats I’ve ever seen and seeing the stands filled with alumni and family members was pretty special. I think it’s safe to say that Homecoming Week 2023 was a success.

Sadie’s was also a highlight! “Rhyme Without Reason” has to be my favorite theme we’ve ever had. There were some pretty hilarious costume combinations. It almost felt like a game trying to figure out everyone’s rhyme. Magic Mountain was, as always, a win. I’m a total rollercoaster girl, so I definitely lived it up. I love that we travel for Sadie’s; it makes for a super fun day.

I could go on and on, but I think you get the idea. I think it’s safe to say that we’ve had a really busy, really exciting, really fun semester. Fun fact about me: I’m probably the most nostalgic person you’ll ever meet. I’m the kind of girl who will stop in the middle of a moment and say “I’m going to remember this someday.” I’ve had a lot of those moments this semester and they wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of so many people. Teachers, administrators, community partners, student leaders, board members, parents, volunteers, member churches and prayer warriors. I like to think of Fresno Christian like a really complex machine. It wouldn’t function without each small and equally important part. That’s kind of how our silly little school family works.

I know the days are long and the assignments never seem to end, but I’m so proud of your perseverance. Yes, you! I’m not so naive as to think that everyone lives a perfect and happy life – nobody does. Nonetheless, here you are, at the end of 2023, continuing to show up and do your best. There’s nothing that makes me prouder than seeing my friends and peers live out Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”

All that to say, way to go, Eagles. Staff and students alike, I’m grateful. You’ve given me the best Christmas gift I could ask for: memories I’ll cherish forever.

Love, Paige

To read more from The Feather visit, Athlete Spotlight: Blake Bay and Student Spotlight: Senior Luke Portale

For more opinions read Editorial: Antisemitism rises in the name of freedom of speech