Grace Christian Academy students recognized for DAR and CHAMPS achievements
Published 10:18 am Wednesday, April 23, 2025
(L-R) Paxton Miller, Douglas Griffin, Jackson Sapp, Maci Lynn, Victoria Herren, Layton McCann, Gage DeSmyther; 2nd row - Eva Kinchen, Kirksey Bell Hayes, Sawyer Vickers, Anniston Dodd; 3rd Row- Rian Sixtos, Griffin Roach, James Donalson; 4th Row- Ethan Harrison, Everett Logue, Hunter Blanton, Harrison Chastain
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On Thursday morning, Grace Christian Academy (GCA) 5th and 8th grade students were honored with certificates and plaques for their achievements in Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and Choosing Healthy Activities and Methods Promoting Safety (CHAMPS).
Holly Horne, GCA School Counselor, explained that DAR is a national organization dedicated to historic preservation, education, and patriotism. Each year, the DAR Association hosts an American History Essay Contest. Participants select a historical topic to research and write about, showcasing their knowledge and writing skills. This year, ten 5th graders and one 8th grader, Morgan Baxley, participated and received certificates and gift certificates presented by Dawn Hammill, Local DAR Regent.
Horne also highlighted the CHAMPS program, a 12-week initiative founded by the Georgia Sheriffs’ Association, designed to educate students on internet safety, bullying, and drug and alcohol prevention. Every GCA student took part in the program and wrote essays upon completion. Griffin Roach was recognized as the top CHAMPS student, with Maci Lynn as the runner-up. Eva Kinchen was named the essay winner, while Sawer Vickers was the runner-up.
Captain Michael Cox and Sheriff Wiley Griffin presented the CHAMPS awards, emphasizing the importance of educating students on real-world challenges. Cox shared his thoughts on the program: “Teaching young students about important subjects is rewarding because they need to understand that not everything they see on the internet or TV is real. I also love to teach students to say ‘no’ to peer pressure. Overall, I enjoy it because I get to interact with kids.”
Supporting the students’ success, Linda Reynolds, GCA 5th grade English teacher, guided them through the essay-writing process during class time, helping them develop their research and writing skills.
Through their participation in DAR and CHAMPS, these students demonstrated dedication to learning, leadership, and safety, reinforcing the school’s commitment to academic excellence and community awareness.
