Senior Spotlight: Amber Marshall, Harmony James, and Hayden Kincaid

Senior Spotlight: Amber Marshall, Harmony James, and Hayden Kincaid

It is our pleasure to introduce three more incredible members of the WCS 2025 senior class: Amber Marshall, Harmony James, and Hayden Kincaid

Meet Amber Marshall

This is Amber’s first year at WCS, and she has felt welcomed since the very first day of school. She describes her experience at WCS as “fun, eventful, and chill.” Attending WCS has helped Amber grow in her faith and draw closer to God. Senior Bible is her favorite subject because it includes enjoyable projects that encourage students to reflect on specific moments in their lives.

Amber participates in cheer, basketball, and track and looks forward to playing these sports with her friends after school. These friends helped her learn the ropes as a new WCS student and have been her biggest supporters. Amber’s favorite memories include homecoming week and senior sunrise, and her proudest moment was earning all A’s for the first quarter.

After graduation, Amber plans to attend college and major in graphic design. She wants to stay connected with the WCS community and looks forward to returning to cheer for the Wildcats from the stands.

Introducing Harmony James

Favorite Bible Verse: Philippians 4:13

 Harmony joined WCS in fourth grade. Throughout her time here, she has participated in volleyball, basketball, softball, soccer, and cheerleading. She attributes these sports to teaching her discipline and how to love others, even when it’s challenging.

Physics is Harmony’s favorite subject because it offers a hands-on curriculum that makes it easier to learn. Her favorite teacher is Coach Williams because he always offers good advice when she discusses her problems with him. A strong student, Harmony’s proudest moment was when she was inducted into the National Honor Society.

Harmony’s advice to younger students is that when things are going well for you, it doesn’t mean you should stop reading your Bible or praying to God; rather, you have to pour into Him even more. After graduation, Harmony plans to attend Baylor University, major in biology, and become a radiologist.

Meet Hayden Kincaid

Favorite Bible Verse: 2 Corinthians 4:16

Hayden Kincaid has attended WCS since the first grade. He’s been involved in Interact, HOSA, the ASL Club, the Garden Club, the Theater Crew, Golf, and Library Aide. These extracurriculars shaped his school experience by highlighting the importance of getting involved in your community and how fulfilling that experience can be.

From his time as a student in her fourth-grade class to serving as her library aide this year, Mrs. Robertson has had a significant impact on Hayden. “Her patience and welcoming attitude have inspired me and my friends to volunteer at the library and learn about all the work that goes on behind the scenes to create a spectacular library for our students!”

Hayden’s favorite class is AP Government, and his proudest moment was receiving the AP Scholar with Distinction award, as it demonstrated that hard work really pays off.

During his time at WCS, Hayden’s faith in God has grown through the inspiring examples set by his friends and their encouraging words and actions. His advice to younger students is to

give time every day to God, even if it’s just five minutes of your day.

After spending the summer traveling, Hayden plans to study psychology and pursue a career as a clinical psychologist or therapist. He will stay connected through his younger sister and looks forward to witnessing her growth at WCS.

 

 

 

Senior Spotlight: Amber Marshall, Harmony James, and Hayden Kincaid

Senior Spotlight: Timothy Jonesia, Dina Guo, and Grady Quentin

It is our pleasure to introduce three more incredible members of the WCS 2025 senior class: Timothy Jonesia, Dina Guo, and Grady Quentin

Meet Timothy Jonesia

Favorite Bible Verse: Jeremiah 29:11

Timothy has been a student at WCS since the 2nd grade. During his time here, he played baseball, soccer, and football. He credits sports with teaching him the importance of hard work and integrity.

Bible is Timothy’s favorite class because it strengthened his faith and knowledge in the Lord. In addition to Bible class, the Louisiana Mission Trip help strengthen Timothy’s faith. His proudest moment in high school was making the AB honor roll his junior year, and his favorite high school memory is the DC/New York trip that same year.

Timothy advises younger WCS students to “always pray and read your Bible.” He plans to stay connected to the Wildcat community by attending football games and visiting friends. Timothy is looking forward to attending college next year.

Introducing Dina Guo

Favorite Verse: Matthew 5:43-44.

Dina describes her time at WCS as fun, warm, and inspiring. She’s been a WCS Wildcat since her sophomore year and is a member of the high school band. Her proudest high school moment was earning a 99 on her AP Biology test.

It’s no surprise that Biology is Dina’s favorite class. She enjoys the teacher and finds the subject so interesting she plans to pursue a degree in nursing after graduation.

Dina believes her faith has grown during high school, especially while working with the homeless through church. Her advice to younger students is to focus in Bible class and read the Bible every day.

Meet Grady Quentin

Grady joined the WCS community during his freshman year of high school. His favorite class is band, and he enjoys playing a variety of music and competing against bands from other schools. Mr. Reid is Grady’s favorite teacher.

What he enjoys most about WCS is hanging out with friends. Grady’s biggest encourager is his friend Caleb Marbley. “He made me laugh when I was upset or down, even if he couldn’t tell I was upset.”

Grady is excited about college next year and hopes to stay connected with the WCS community through his younger brother, who plans to attend.

 

 

 

Senior Spotlight: Amber Marshall, Harmony James, and Hayden Kincaid

Senior Spotlight: Jessie (Jiaxin) Xie, Ashley Matthew, Eden Williams, and Jannieka Heng

Introducing four more incredible members of the WCS 2025 senior class: Jessie (Jiaxin) Xie, Ashely Matthews, Eden Williams, and Jannieka Heng.

Meet Jessie (Jiaxin) Xie
Favorite Bible Verse: Isaiah 40:31

When asked to describe her experience at WCS in three words, Jiaxin replied, “Overcoming, Discovering, and Experiencing.” Jiaxin joined the ECS community in the 9th grade and credits her experience in robotics and volleyball for teaching her resilience and responsibility. Jiaxin described the impact two teachers had on her life during high school. “Mrs. Leeson introduced me to the world of STEM and triggered my journey of exploring STEM subjects, eventually leading me to find my passion! Through robotics, I improved my English communication skills and developed leadership skills. It helped me get familiar with this new environment.”

Coach Glover also had a significant impact on Jiaxin. “Social Studies was the hardest class for me. I struggled as an international student who just got to the U.S. I really appreciate all the patience Coach Glover gives to his students. I could not go through the hardest year of adapting to language barriers without Coach Glover’s help! He is an amazingly great history teacher!”

During high school, Jiaxin grew in her faith through Bible classes, the influence of her friends, and the WCS teacher and staff. She wants younger WCS students to know, “We can do hard things!” After graduation, Jiaxin plans to study medicine and become a physician.

 

Introducing Ashley Matthew
Favorite Bible Verse: Ephesians 2:10

Ashley has been a student at WCS since preschool! Her favorite subjects are art and history. “Art allows me to express myself, and it allows me to create whatever I want to do. History, on the other hand, provides so much important information about our world and the decisions we have made in the past. I believe history is so important as it can be used as a precedent when making future decisions, and it shows how truly we are connected throughout the world and throughout time.”

Three WCS teachers had a significant impact on Ashley. “Mrs. Hatfield and Ms. Stone helped me understand the importance of seeing things from different perspectives. Mrs. Keese also greatly impacted me as she encouraged me to try new challenges. All three of these teachers helped me grow in my relationship with Christ. They also taught me how to face the unexpected and fostered my love for learning.”

Ashley credits growing in her faith to the wonderful support systems she fostered with friends and even some teachers. “I have learned great things about God, and it has changed the way I think about my relationship with God and how it affects my relationship with others,” she described. Joining the WCS theater program helped Ashley gain self-confidence and realize her passion for the fine arts. “Theater allowed me to find a loving community where I could be myself no matter what,” said Ashley. “It was one of the best decisions I made here.”

 After graduation, Ashley plans to earn a college degree in Graphic Design. She then hopes to receive a Juris Doctor and pursue a government job or become a defense attorney.

 

Meet Eden Williams
Favorite Bible Verse: Psalm 16:11

Eden first came to WCS in the sixth grade. Her favorite class is Anatomy & Physiology with Mr. Reid. “I love this class because we get to dive deeper into the wonder of the human body, which has to do with my interests for the future,” said Eden. “It is so amazing how God made all of us with so many intricate details.”

The teacher who influenced Eden the most is Mr. Blaine. “He encouraged me always to be my best self, no matter what anyone else had to say. As I transitioned from middle school to high school, he reminded me not to conform, just as Romans 12:2 says. That advice has stuck with me throughout my high school years, and I will always strive to follow it.

One of Eden’s favorite memories at WCS was her freshman retreat because her class grew very close, and they continued to talk about the experience throughout high school. Eden was also very proud and grateful to receive the AP Scholar with Distinction Award. “It helped me realize that so much can be learned from AP classes, even if they are more difficult. The hard work is worth it!” Eden loves being involved at school and participated in many clubs and activities, including cheerleading, soccer, track & field, theatre, volleyball, Student Council, ASL club, HOSA (Future Health Professionals) club, Ambassador Club, and Interact Club.

Once she graduates, Eden plans to attend Spelman College and major in Health Science. Her goal is to become an obstetrician-gynecologist and establish her own practice. Ultimately, Eden hopes to “make a major difference in this world, encouraging others to do the same.” 

 

Introducing Jannieka Heng
Favorite Bible Verse: Proverbs 31:25

Jannieka started attending WCS in kindergarten and describes it as “my second home.” Theater is her favorite class, specifically her third-period class during her sophomore year. “It was a small class, but it had the biggest impact on me,” she explained. I always felt comfortable speaking my mind and being myself. I have many happy memories associated with that class!”

Throughout her years at WCS, Jannieka believes her relationship with God is stronger now because God-fearing individuals constantly surround her. “My friends and I have become closer through our common love for Jesus!” Jannieka wants younger students to understand the importance of reading the Bible. “Everyone’s journey is different, but if you immerse yourself in the Word daily and take it one step at a time, it will make the biggest difference!”

Mr. Blaine had an essential impact on Jannieka as a student. “Since the sixth grade, he always believed in me and constantly pushed me to be my best. I will always be grateful to him (and his cartwheel that he totally did NOT do in class).” The 2023 Homecoming Week is one of Jannieka’s favorite WCS memories, and she was incredibly proud when she was exempted from her honors pre-calculous final. Jannieka also discovered her love for theater at WCS. She has a close group of friends who have been there for her from day one. “They’re not just my “school friends,” they’re my family!”

Jannieka hopes that students can remember her in a positive light. She wants students to know that, “while you CAN do anything you set your mind to, you don’t HAVE to feel like you need to do everything. Everyone is human and can only juggle so much, even those you think have it all together.” Jannieka hopes to pursue a career in Business Marketing and Advertising in the future.

 

 

 

Senior Spotlight: Amber Marshall, Harmony James, and Hayden Kincaid

Senior Spotlight: Vicky Nguyen, Jaden Walker, and Bella Chauvin

At WCS, we strive to prepare students to make a meaningful impact on the world. This year’s senior class is no exception, and we’re excited to spotlight our incredible seniors each week, starting with Vicky Nguyen, Jaden Walker, and Bella Chauvin.

 

Introducing Vicky Nguyen
Favorite Bible Verse: Exodus 20:12

This is Vicky’s first year attending WCS. Math is her favorite subject because it enriches her logical thinking. She enjoys participating in the band and has discovered a hidden talent for playing bells. Mr. Echols is Vicky’s favorite teacher, and she loves his passion for teaching. “He is very kind and helpful. I used to see his problems on the right hand, and it would remind me to try my best in life.”

Among Vicky’s favorite WCS memories is International Camp Day, when she enjoyed chatting with new friends and teachers. Other special memories include holding hands during prayer before lunch each day and a funny friend singing during class

After graduation, Vicky is excited to continue her studies in college. She is grateful for her mom’s encouragement: “She always encourages me when I want to give up and helps me figure out my value.” Vicky plans to stay in touch with her WCS friends after graduation by getting together on the weekends for coffee or bowling.

 

Meet Jaden Walker

Jaden joined our school community in sixth grade. For him, WCS “feels like home.” He plays football, soccer, and track, and through sports, he has become stronger and faster. Biology is Jaden’s favorite subject because it interests him the most, and he has worked hard to improve his grades. He will never forget Ms. Banks for her encouragement and helping him through this year.

When he reflects on his time at WCS, Jaden’s favorite memory is scoring the game-winning touchdown in his 11th-grade homecoming game. It was his first touchdown in a high school game.

Jaden is planning to attend college after graduation. He hopes his classmates will remember him as kind to everyone and looks forward to reconnecting with them at some Wildcat games next year.

 

Last But Not Least, Meet Bella Chauvin

A WCS Wildcat since the sixth grade, Bella felt welcome here “from the first hellos.” Although she enjoys every subject, Bella discovered her passion for science with the help of Ms. Lesson. Her favorite WCS memory is helping with the Luna Festival.

Bella experienced growth in her faith during her time at WCS, especially through the mission trip to San Antonio. What advice would you give younger students about maintaining and growing their faith? “Take advantage of every opportunity (even if you don’t think you’ll like it) and know God is with you.”

If Bella could relive one day from her time at WCS, it would be the December Christmas party. After graduation, Bella plans to attend college.

 

Are you looking for a high school program that inspires the next generation to realize their dreams? We’d love to share more information about the incredible opportunities available to WCS high school students. Visit our high school page to learn more about the WCS experience.

Wisdom Beyond Academics: The WCS High School Experience

Wisdom Beyond Academics: The WCS High School Experience

As we enter the second half of the school year, our high school students face exciting changes and milestones. This period marks a pivotal time in their academic journey, filled with new opportunities, challenges, and important decisions.

Seniors: The Excitement of College Acceptances and Decisions
For our senior class, the beginning of the new year is filled with excitement and anticipation. Many have received college acceptance letters from top universities, a massive achievement and a testament to their hard work and determination. The next few months will be significant as they weigh their options and decide where to continue their education.

We encourage our seniors to pray about their decisions, visit college campuses a second (or third) time, and speak with current students about their experiences when making this life-changing decision.

Juniors: Preparing for College Testing and Applications
While seniors are wrapping up college applications and decisions, our juniors are entering full college preparation mode. WCS counselors work closely with juniors, helping them with test prep and planning for the college application season. While it may seem like a lot to think about as a junior, starting early is important—researching colleges, exploring potential career paths, and developing a strong academic profile. This proactive approach can help reduce the stress that often accompanies the application process in senior year. Counseling services provided include college fairs hosted on campus, college essay writing workshops, FASFA/ Scholarship Workshops, freshman symposiums, on-campus PSAT and ACT, college signing day, and more.

More Than Just Academics: Discovering Purpose and Impact
With 18 AP classes and the opportunity for dual enrollment courses, our students develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and time management skills that will serve them well in college and beyond. But that’s not the only accomplishment that sets WCS graduates apart.

At the heart of our high school experience is a deep commitment to helping students discover their God-given purpose. We work diligently to equip young people with the knowledge and wisdom to positively impact the world. Our teachers and staff strive to help students discover their unique gifts and identify future career possibilities that align with their faith and values.

Share Your Experience: Invite a Friend to Preview Day
If someone you know is searching for a Christ-centered high school experience with excellent academics and a supportive community, please invite them to attend our upcoming Preview Day on January 26, 2025. It’s the perfect opportunity to get a firsthand look at our amazing campus, vibrant community, and academic offerings. Online registration for Preview Day is now open.

 

Please share the following video for a glimpse into daily life at Westbury Christian, where academic excellence meets character growth and purpose in a Christ-centered environment.

 

Understanding Scarcity: A Trading Simulation for Senior Economics Students

Understanding Scarcity: A Trading Simulation for Senior Economics Students

Westbury Christian School Social Studies Department Head Mrs. Courtney Hatfield created a real-world simulation for her students in her senior Economics class. The students found themselves in a captivating simulation designed to explore scarcity, decision-making, productive resources, technological benefits, and the power of trade.

The class was divided into three groups to represent three fictitious countries. Each group had to select a name and a leader for their country. The leader received their country’s unique resource endowments to meet the needs of their citizens. But a problem awaited them – they quickly learned they didn’t have enough resources in their own country to make what their citizens needed. 

“This forced the students to either get creative to figure out how to balance the scarcity of their resources with the wants and needs of their citizens, or learn how to trade with other nations to get what they needed,” says Mrs. Hatfield.

The scarce resources simulation demonstrated the importance of trade with other nations and for students to learn the art of diplomacy. They answered the three most important questions in economics:  What do we produce?  How do we produce? For whom do we produce?

After the simulation, students debriefed through a guided discussion to dive deeper into economic concepts. A few of the topics they discussed include: 

  • How did each country solve the problem of not having all the resources it needed to satisfy the needs and wants of its residents?  
  • Did the countries with capital goods have advantages in quality and quantity of production in comparison with countries lacking capital goods? 
  • How do diplomatic relationships between countries affect trade? Give some real-world examples. 

Mrs. Hatfield’s students gained valuable insights into the complex and interconnected world of economics and international relations.

 

WCS Earns College Board AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award

WCS Earns College Board AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award

Recognized for Improving Gender Representation in AP Computer Science Principles

HOUSTON, TX Westbury Christian School has earned the College Board AP® Computer Science Female Diversity Award for achieving high female representation in AP Computer Science Principles. Schools honored with the AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award have expanded girls’ access in AP computer science courses. 

More than 1,100 institutions achieved either 50% or higher female representation in one of the two AP computer science courses or a percentage of the female computer science exam takers meeting or exceeding that of the school’s female population during the 2022-23 school year. In 2023, Westbury Christian School was one of 834 recognized in the category of AP Computer Science Principles (CSP).

“We’re thrilled to congratulate our female AP computer science students and Mrs. Leeson on this step toward gender parity in computer science education,” said High School Principal Kaitlyn Ballard. “We’re honored that our school earned this distinction and look forward to seeing these young women and others pursue and achieve success in computer science education and careers.”

“I am so excited to generate interest for young women in high school to explore more STEM classes and fields, especially computer science,” says WCS STEM Director, Colleen Leeson.  “The digital world is foundational to how we interact with each other and to bring new ideas to life in our current society. Until the approach of the AP Computer Science Principles class, many young women could not see themselves in the roles of coding, processing, and transforming data into new applications and insights. These are skills that we are all capable of leveraging. This class has encouraged many of my female students to pursue computer science and data science fields in post-secondary studies. I am proud to see each of them continue the journey of learning and impacting our world with STEM skills.”

“Computer science is the source code of our economy and much of the career landscape,” said Trevor Packer, Head of the AP Program. “In the six years since we began the AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award, it’s been heartening to see schools like Westbury Christian School welcome so many more young women into this vital field.”

The first year of AP Computer Science Principles in 2016-17 attracted more students than any other AP course debut, and participation is on the rise. In 2023, 164,505 students took the AP CSP Exam—more than triple the number of exam takers in the course’s first year. In 2023, 55,572 women took the AP CSP Exam, more than four times the number who tested in 2017.

Providing female students with access to computer science courses is critical to ensuring gender parity in the industry’s high-paying jobs and to driving innovation, creativity, and representation. The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $100,530 in May 2022. However, women represent just 24% of the five million people in computing occupations. 

That’s why College Board research about AP CSP is so encouraging. According to the data, female students who take AP CSP in high school are more than five times as likely to major in computer science in college, compared to female students of similar background and academic preparation who did not take CSP. The study also finds AP CSP students are nearly twice as likely to enroll in AP CSA, and that for most students, AP CSP serves as a stepping stone to other advanced AP STEM coursework.

These findings highlight the importance of schools nationwide achieving gender parity in AP computer science classrooms. Overall, female students remain underrepresented in our high school computer science classes, accounting for just 34% of AP Computer Science Principles participants and 26% of AP Computer Science A participants. Currently, 57.5% of the nation’s high schools teach foundational computer science. The 1,127 schools that receive this year’s AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award serve as inspirations and models for all U.S. high schools. 

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About Westbury Christian School

Westbury Christian School is a Christ-centered college preparatory school for students from age 3 to 12th grade. A vibrant community of learners, WCS reflects the Kingdom: Faithful, Wise, and Diverse. Since 1975, we have provided our students with a safe and diverse environment with challenging academics taught from a Biblical worldview and personalized instruction. WCS strives to support families in Christian education and cultivate relationships that build a strong sense of belonging within our community. Students are encouraged to find their God-given talents by participating in our student-led clubs, athletics, and fine arts programs. WCS develops students to become Christian servants, compassionate leaders, and lifelong learners who are prepared for here and eternity.

Westbury Christian Yearbook Staff Takes Home Four Design Awards from Entourage’s National Yearbook Competition

Westbury Christian Yearbook Staff Takes Home Four Design Awards from Entourage’s National Yearbook Competition

Entourage Yearbooks announced their 14th Annual National Yearbook Competition awards, recognizing Westbury Christian School with four different design awards for the 2023 Entourage Yearbook. 

  • 1st Place High School Page Design – Madison Shorter ’23
  • 1st Place Elementary School Photo – “Breathe In and Sing” – Sophia Gonzalez ’23
  • 3rd Place High School Cover Design – All Yearbook Staff: Sophia Gonzalez ’23, Madison Shorter ’23, Nathan Marable ’23, Wolfgang Klepfer ’23, Troy Page ’24, & Harmony James ’25.
  • Honorable Mention – Elementary Pages – Sophia Gonzalez ’23 & Harmony James ’25

“Last year, the yearbook staff really impressed me with how hard they worked to make everything look the best it could be. I’m so proud of the initiative that the yearbook editors, Sophia G. and Madison S. now alumni, took to finalize designs and add their own flair into every page,” says WCS Yearbook Teacher, Aryn Ward

“There was a learning curve to getting the book rolling, but each yearbook staff member took the time to write out descriptions of our yearbook contest entries to the national Entourage Yearbooks Contest. Co-Yearbook Editor in Chief, Madison Shorter, actually did the final submission herself, a nerve wracking process for a 200+ page book!,” shares Ward. “Overall, I’m glad that the yearbook students learned so much through publishing last year’s VHS or Old TV themed yearbook. My favorite part of the design was that the spine of the book looks like a VHS tape when placed on a bookshelf.” 

More about Entourage’s National Yearbook Competition From Entourage:
The Annual Entourage National Yearbook Competition recognizes schools with yearbooks created by students and school volunteers. To participate, schools submit their yearbook content into categories for overall yearbook, page design, photography, and cover design. With hundreds of entries, the 2023 Entourage Yearbooks National Yearbook competition proved to be competitive and highlighted yearbook design excellence.

Judging of the contest entries consisted of creativity, originality, and journalistic relevance. Schools were evaluated separately at the Elementary, Middle, and High School levels. The judging committee included Entourage’s expert yearbook journalists and invited yearbook experts across the industry.

Complete yearbook contest results can be found at https://edo.entourageyearbooks.com/YearbookContestWinners.asp?academic_year=2023&school_category=HIGH%20SCHOOL&_s=

About Entourage Yearbooks: Founded in 2006, Entourage Yearbooks provides yearbooks to over 6,000 schools across the US and in 18 countries worldwide. For more information about Entourage Yearbooks, visit http://www.entourageyearbooks.com

3rd Place High School Cover Design – All Yearbook Staff: Sophia Gonzalez ’23, Madison Shorter ’23, Nathan Marable ’23, Wolfgang Klepfer ’23, Troy Page ’24, & Harmony James ’25.

 

1st Place Elementary School Photo – “Breathe In and Sing” – Sophia Gonzalez ’23

1st Place High School Page Design – Madison Shorter ’23

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