BETWEEN the LIONS
October 30, 2025
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At Asheville Christian Academy, we often say that education is a partnership between the home, the church, and the school. Within that partnership, few relationships are more precious or more powerful than the one our students share with their grandparents.
Grandparents once stood where today’s parents stand. They have weathered sleepless nights, scraped knees, teenage challenges, and the countless prayers that come with raising children.
By God’s design, grandparents now play a new role in the story—serving as encouragers, prayer warriors, and living testimonies of God’s faithfulness. Scripture reminds us: “Children’s children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children” (Proverbs 17:6). What a beautiful picture of legacy and love between generations.
We see this legacy in action every day as grandparents pray for our teachers, attend performances and games, volunteer in classrooms, and give generously to the mission of Christian education. Their presence strengthens our community and reminds us that we are part of something bigger: a story that began long before us and will continue long after.
We look forward to celebrating that legacy together on Grandparents Day at ACA, Friday, November 7. It will be a special morning of worship, fellowship, and classroom visits as we honor the generations whose faith and love have shaped our students’ lives. Lower school parents, we’d love your help in spreading the word—please invite your children’s grandparents to be part of this special celebration.
As parents, may we take time to thank and cherish the grandparents who have poured so much into our families. Their prayers and presence are a living testimony of faith in action, and our students and our community family are stronger because of them.
William Jason Putnam
Head of School
Recovery Updates
Exciting progress continues across all of our athletic fields as crews work diligently to bring each space closer to completion. It’s been a busy two weeks on campus!
Baseball – Irrigation and sod installation are complete. Concrete work is underway for the backstop and bullpens, while design planning continues for the dugouts and field house.
Soccer – Irrigation is complete on the competition field, and sod installation is underway. Grading for the practice field is scheduled to begin next week.
Tennis – Asphalt has been laid, and crews are now focused on fencing and stormwater improvements around the courts.
Track & Field – Asphalt is in place, marking a major milestone in the project. The visible outline of the track and infield now offers a first glimpse of the finished layout.
Cross Country Course – Design work continues with a focus on creating a more flood-resistant route that complements the new configuration of the athletic complex.
Thank you for your continued support as we rebuild these spaces. If you’d like to support or partner with us, please reach out to advancement@ashevillechristian.org
This school year, we are launching our school-wide Character Education Monthly Themes—rooted in the Fruit of the Spirit—to help reinforce our shared values and create a consistent, Christ-centered environment for all students.
For October, our focus will be on Patience and Perseverance, encouraging our school community to remain steadfast in the face of challenges and to trust in God’s timing. Students are invited to practice persistence in pursuing worthy goals, even when difficulties, delays, or mistakes arise.
Jesus modeled perseverance throughout His ministry, enduring trials, opposition, and even the cross, while remaining faithful to God’s mission. Scripture reminds us that our trials are not wasted, but that endurance produces strength and maturity in Christ. As James 1:12 declares, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial, because having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”
Patience allows us to wait with hope, while perseverance equips us to keep pressing forward. Together, these virtues help us grow in character, deepen our faith, and reflect Christ’s steadfast love to others.
Character Education
Featured Events
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ACA Fund
Each year, Asheville Christian Academy’s ACA Fund plays a vital role in sustaining and strengthening every part of our mission. These gifts go directly toward the programs, people, and priorities that make ACA a place where students are equipped to become committed followers of Christ. From classroom technology and faculty development to tuition assistance and campus security, the ACA Fund bridges the gap between tuition revenue and the full cost of providing an excellent, Christ-centered education.
This year, our goal is $406,000, and we’re thrilled to share that we have a matching gift opportunity of up to $150,000—doubling every gift up to that amount! Your support will go twice as far in helping us reach this important goal.
Our goal this year is simple: 100% participation from every family. It’s not about the size of the gift, but about our shared commitment to the mission we love. When every family gives, we send a powerful message of unity, faith, and investment in the next generation.
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Parent Teacher Conferences
Parent–Teacher Conferences will be held October 30–31. There will be noon dismissal on Thursday, October 30, and no school on Friday, October 31.
Please note: There is no aftercare on Thursday, October 30th. -
The Coach Approach to Parenting
Parenting in today’s world can feel more complex than ever. From academic pressures to social challenges, guiding children through life’s ups and downs requires wisdom, patience, and intentionality.
Join us for an inspiring session with Wes Simmons, President and CEO of the 3D Institute, as he presents “The Coach Approach to Parenting.” Drawing from his experience as a coach, leader, and father of four, Wes will share practical tools to help you nurture your child’s growth in body, mind, and spirit.
Date: November 6th
Location: ACA Auditorium
Time: 6pm (dinner at 5pm)Dinner and childcare will be provided for a small fee.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain fresh perspective and encouragement for your parenting journey!
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I55 Book Fair
Get ready for a week full of reading fun at the I55 Book Fair in the ACA Library, November 3–7, from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM each day!
Lower School students will have the opportunity to visit the fair twice with their classes, exploring great books to spark their love of reading. Parents are welcome to stop by anytime, and we’ll also be open on Grandparents Day—a perfect time to browse together!
Come support our school and discover new stories your family will love.
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Grandparents/Friends Day
Fall is approaching and we are excited to be welcoming grandparents to school! Please save the date for Grandparent’s Day on Friday, November 7th! This will be a fun time for grandparents of Lower School students to learn more about ACA and spend time in your child’s classroom. If grandparents are unable to attend, we encourage you to “adopt” a grandparent for the day such as a close family friend or church member.
We are asking you to RSVP on behalf of your child's grandparents or grand-friends below: -
Fun by the Fire
Fathers, grandfathers, uncles, father figures, and boys in 3rd–5th grade are invited for hot dogs, s’mores, games, and music on November 7 at 6:00 PM at ACA. Cost is $25 for one adult and one child; $5 for each additional person.
Deadline to register is 11/4 at 6pm. -
Veterans Day
We invite all veterans and their guests to join us at 1:30pm on November 11th in the ACA gym for a special celebration with refreshments provided.
Please RSVP to by November 1st.
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Thanksgiving Lunch
Mark your calendars! Our annual Family Thanksgiving Feast will be held on Thursday, November 20th. All ACA parents are invited to join their child(ren) for lunch during their regular lunchtime. It’s a wonderful opportunity to share a meal, celebrate together, and give thanks as a school family.
Reservation link and additional details will be shared soon—stay tuned!
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Thanksgiving Break
Enjoy the season with family and friends! School will be closed for Thanksgiving Break from Monday, November 24 through Friday, November 28. Classes resume Monday, December 1.
We’re grateful for our wonderful community—Happy Thanksgiving!
Tandem Calendar
Calendar navigation: Click or tap on a date to view event details. Use arrows to view next month.
All School News
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Spirit Store Sale
Monday, November 10th
7:45–8:30 a.m. & 2:45–3:30 p.m.All used uniforms are 50% off the ticketed price! Come early for the best selection and stock up for next season.
For questions, please contact thespiritstore@ashevillechristian.org.
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NC Opportunity Scholarship
We are pleased to host a special information session about the NC Opportunity Scholarship and ESA program. A representative will be on campus to meet with families, share details, and answer any questions.
NC Opportunity Scholarship & ESA Information Session
Wednesday, November 12 | 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m.We encourage you to spread the word and bring along families who may be interested in learning more about our school and the opportunities available for their children.
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The Coffee Connection
The first Friday of every month (except November and April), there will be a Coffee Truck in front of the school. All parents are invited to park, buy coffee and socialize with other parents.
What: Bridge & Tunnel Coffee Truck: Meet other parents and get caffeinated and connected
When: Friday, November 14 from 8-9:30 a.m.
Where: Meet at the Coffee Truck (if it is raining, bring your coffee to the cafe area in the Student Union)
Who: All parents are invited
*Lower school parents may walk their children to class starting at 7:45am and then join us at the Coffee Truck.
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Footsteps and Fellowship
We invite you to join us to walk around the paved areas of the school and meet some other parents.
When: Friday, November 14 from 1:45-2:30 p.m. (Weather Permitting)
Who: All parents are invited
Where: Meet in front of the school. Make sure you sign in and get a Trail Walker sticker.
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Worship Wednesdays
We’re excited to introduce Worship Wednesdays—a monthly opportunity for parents to join our faculty and staff in corporate worship. We will gather on the third Wednesday of each month to pause amid our busy schedules, lift our voices in praise, and center our hearts on Christ together as one school family.
While we treasure social time, this particular gathering is set aside for worship with our focus on Christ alone. After worship concludes, please exit through the Lower School doors.
Students are welcome to attend but must sit with their parents; afterward, parents may walk their children to class.
Upcoming Worship Wednesday Dates:
November 19
December 17
January 21, 2026
February 18, 2026
March 18, 2026
April 15, 2026
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Health Update from Our School Nurse
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has released updated guidance on measles prevention and response. With recent cases reported across South Carolina, it’s important for families to be aware of symptoms, vaccination recommendations, and steps to take if exposure is suspected.
Please take a moment to review the NCDHHS Measles Guide to help us keep our school community healthy and protected.
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Upcoming Open Houses – Invite Your Friends & Neighbors!
We are excited to welcome prospective families to our upcoming Open Houses! This is a wonderful opportunity to invite your friends, neighbors, and co-workers to visit our campus, meet our teachers, and experience the heart of our school community.
Kindergarten Open House
Wednesday, November 12 | 9:00–11:00 a.m.All School Open House
Wednesday, November 19 | 9:00–11:00 a.m.
Parent Teacher Fellowship
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Get Involved. Stay Connected. Build Community.
We believe that PTF is a great way to get involved, stay connected and build community. We invite every parent (or even grandparent) to join PTF with all of the activities we help with throughout the year.
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Volunteer at Parenting Together Events
Are you attending the Parenting Together seminar? Please help before it starts.
As part of the Parent Teacher Fellowship (PTF), we have the opportunity to help our teachers and staff by setting up and volunteering in their place at the Parenting Together events this year. This is a fun way to meet other parents by serving together by greeting other parents as they arrive for the events.
Three to four people are needed to arrive 45 minutes before the event begins to help greet and check-in parents, teachers, staff and guests.
You will NOT miss any of the event.
Thank you for your willingness to help!
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The Book Fair
What: The annual Book Fair will take place in the library. This is a super fun event with a lot of parent involvement!
When: Nov. 3-7, 2025 from 7:45 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Who: We need volunteers to help decorate, set up, tear down, check out students, restock supply...there is something for everyone's gifting!
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Grandparents/Friends Day
Grandparents and Grandfriends Day is Friday, Nov. 7. This is a very special event for the kids and their grandparents/grandfriends.
Parents help to make this event a success. Without our volunteers, this event would not be possible.
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Veterans Day Assembly
The Veterans Day Assembly is a celebrated event in which Veterans from our ACA families, as well as Veterans throughout the community, are invited to come to ACA to be honored.
Volunteers are needed to greet and welcome, provide directions and assistance to auditorium, serve snacks and listen to the many stories that Veterans love to share.
This is truly a special event.
This takes place on Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2025. The assembly is from 1:30-2:30pm, but there are times to decorate as well as interact and serve the veterans before and after the assembly.
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Moms in Prayer
Please join us every Monday morning after drop-off from 8:15-9:30 a.m. for Moms in Prayer. We meet in W213 (the conference room next to the 5th grade classrooms).
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Support ACA through Shop ’n’ Give programs!
Last year, your qualified purchases with our affiliated retailers through the Shop-n-Give Affinity Programs benefitted ACA last year in cash back and products valued at $11,300! Some of our participating partners are Ingles, Lands’ End, Harris Teeter, and Box Tops.
Athletics & Fine Arts
Athletic News
Winter Sports Begin
Check with your sport coach/level for exact dates and times. All participants must have a current physical and completed consent packet before tryouts.
Questions? Contact Heidi Pieper, ACA Athletic Trainer.
Coach Contacts (Grades/Levels noted):
Varsity Swimming (Grades 7–12): Heather Butler — heather.butler@ashevillechristian.org
Varsity & JV Girls’ Basketball: Jonathan Bennett — jonathan.bennett@ashevillechristian.org
Middle School Girls’ Basketball: Brittany Meiners — bmeiners13@yahoo.com
Varsity Boys’ Basketball: Andy Ray — andy.ray@ashevillechristian.org
JV Boys’ Basketball: David Swinehart — david.swinehart@ashevillechristian.org
Middle School Boys’ Basketball: Jonathan Whitson — jonathan.whitson@ashevillechristian.org
Congratulations, State Champion Anna Barrett!
We are thrilled to celebrate Anna Barrett for winning the NCISAA 3A State Championship in Cross Country! Anna’s hard work, dedication, and perseverance have paid off in an incredible way, earning her the top spot in the state. We are so proud of you, Anna—thank you for representing ACA with excellence and heart!
Middle School Football Update
We are so proud of our Middle School Boys Football Team! Over 80% of our players took the field for the first time this season, showing incredible growth and teamwork. The team battled their way to a 4–3 record, finishing tied for 2nd place in the division.
They’ll compete for 3rd place in the conference next week against Christ Church on Wednesday, October 29th at 6pm at Christ Church. Come out and cheer them on!
Middle School Musical: James and the Giant Peach JR.
Asheville Christian Academy is thrilled to present the Middle School Musical, James and the Giant Peach JR., running November 13–15, 2025. This delightfully offbeat adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic tale follows a young boy, his band of quirky insect friends, and their incredible adventure across the ocean on a giant piece of fruit. Along the way, they discover that while we are born into one family, we often create another through friendship and shared journey.
Performance Dates:
Thursday, November 13 – 4:00 p.m.
Friday, November 14 – 7:00 p.m.
Saturday, November 15 – 6:00 p.m.
Upper School Spring Musical: Hello, Dolly!
It’s time to start something spectacular! All students interested in cast, crew, or orchestra for Hello, Dolly! should submit a Production Application by Thursday, Nov. 13 to the Fine Arts desk. Open to grades 9–12 and 8th graders involved in the MS Musical.
Audition Workshop (mandatory): Fri, Nov. 14
Auditions: Mon–Tue, Nov. 17–18
Paid Role: Costume Manager Needed
The Fine Arts Team is hiring a Costume Manager for Hello, Dolly! Work with the student costume team on design, organization, fittings, and alterations. Ideal for someone with sewing skills and a love of organization.
Interested? Contact theatre director Erin Lindberg at erin.lindberg@ashevillechristian.org.
In Case You Missed It
Parenting Together with David Eaton
If you weren’t able to join us for our recent Parenting Together event with David Eaton from Axis Ministries, we’ve got you covered! David shared practical insights on how to stay connected as a family in a world filled with social media, smartphones, and shifting cultural trends.
Whether your children are in elementary, middle, or high school, you’ll find encouragement and tools to help you lead your family with confidence in today’s digital age.
Host an International Student
Did you know that ACA has an International Student Program? At Asheville Christian Academy, we are committed to fostering a diverse community that values cultural exchange and understanding. Through our International Homestay Program, we welcome students from around the world to be part of our school family.
Would you consider hosting an international student next school year?
As a host family, you’ll receive a $1,000 monthly stipend to help offset costs. Even more importantly, you’ll have the opportunity to provide a warm, loving, and nurturing home for a student far from their own family. Hosting is more than just cultural exchange—it’s a chance to build lifelong connections and friendships while reflecting Christ’s love and compassion.
What’s it like to host? Hear firsthand from three ACA host families here!
For more information about the International Student Program, please contact Deborah Stuart.
Thank you for prayerfully considering this meaningful opportunity!
Guidance News
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College Funding
Join CFNC’s “Paying for College” webinar for ACA on November 10.
In the meantime, explore these resources:
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College Rep Visits at ACA
Take advantage of learning more about a variety of colleges when they come to us! Visit with the college representatives to find out what makes their schools special.
Auburn University, Wed, Nov. 5, Student Union during Lunch
UNC Greensboro, Thurs, Nov. 6, Student Union during Lunch
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Dual Enrollment
Registration is now open for students enrolled in dual credit classes with Colorado Christian University.
If you received an email from Mrs. Boer with instructions on how to sign up, please follow those directions if you are interested. Feel free to reach out to her directly with any questions.
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Calling All Student Leaders!
Applications are now open for the 8th Annual Lands’ End School Starboard Scholarship for the 2025–2026 school year. Since 2018, Lands’ End has awarded 39 scholarships totaling $265,000 to students who demonstrate exceptional leadership.
This year, up to five $5,000 scholarships will be awarded to eligible Preferred School students in grades 8–12.
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Federal Student Aid
Seniors: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid is OPEN!
Completing this form is the way that colleges review what financial aid they can provide for students. We highly recommend that you take the few minutes required to complete this form, even if you don’t think you’ll qualify for need-based aid. Some schools require this process before providing even merit-based aid. Your Guidance Office is happy to help.
