More than 150 students from seventh-grade and up came from Washington, Idaho and Oregon for the Upper Columbia Academy annual Academy Day on April 9. The event gives potential students a chance to experience life at UCA. At registration each visitor was presented with UCA’s new t-shirt, which was designed with the help of two UCA students—Yoo Jin Kim, junior, and Kyle McCluskey, senior.
UCA student tour guides took guests on tours of the school, and everyone gathered in the chapel for worship. Worship included a devotional by Ken Wetmore, UCA Church pastor, and a performance by the Choraliers—UCA’s elite choir. Following worship there was a Bible Knowledge Bowl hosted by Mark Janke, history and Bible teacher.
In the afternoon, classes were canceled so everyone could visit the various department booths at the gym, which offered information as well as games and contests.
The rest of the afternoon included performances by UCA’s various instrumental and vocal ensembles, and the gymnastics team. Visitors were awarded prizes and scholarships.
Academy Day ended with an inspiring talk by Fred Riffel, UCA chaplain and Bible teacher, in which he challenged guests and students to make their relationship with Jesus a top priority.
Scott North, recruitment director, says “Academy Day is about showing our guests what makes UCA awesome: its students. It is the hope of everyone at UCA that next school year will bring many new students ready to experience a school offering academic excellence, outstanding leadership opportunities, enduring friendships and a vibrant spiritual atmosphere."
