BETWEEN the LIONS
April 1, 2026
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At the center of everything we do stands one unshakable truth: the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Easter is not simply a date on the calendar or a seasonal celebration. It is the defining reality that shapes our mission, our community, and our calling as a Christian school.
The life of Jesus shows us what it means to live fully aligned with the will of God. He walked in humility, taught with authority, loved without condition, and consistently placed others above Himself. For us, this is not abstract. It is instructional. In our classrooms, on our fields, and in our hallways, we are called to model the life of Christ. We pursue truth with integrity. We love one another sacrificially. We see each student as an image bearer of God.
Education, then, is not merely the transfer of knowledge. It is the formation of lives that reflect Christ in everything. The cross is where we are most clearly reminded of our need and God’s provision. Through His death, Jesus took on the weight of sin and offered us grace that we could never earn.
This has profound implications for our school community. We lead and teach from a posture of grace, not perfection. We extend forgiveness because we have been forgiven. We create a culture where failure is not final, but formative. The cross anchors us. It reminds us that our identity is not built on performance, but on redemption.
The resurrection changes everything. It declares that sin is defeated, death is overcome, and new life is available to all who believe. For us as a school, this means we are people of hope, even in uncertainty. We believe transformation is possible in every student. We press forward with confidence that God is actively at work. The empty tomb is not just a historical event. It is a present reality that fuels our mission every single day.
As a Christian school, Easter calls us to more than remembrance. It calls us to response.
Because of the life of Christ, we teach and lead with purpose.
Because of the death of Christ, we extend grace and live in humility.
Because of the resurrection of Christ, we walk in hope and expect transformation.
This is who we are. This is why we exist. And this is what it means to place Christ at the center of everything. As we move through this Easter season, may we not simply celebrate these truths, but embody them in the way we teach, lead, and live together.
Together in Christ, Jesus.
Dr. Jason Putnam
Head of School
Recovery Updates
Last week, we celebrated the first games played on our newly restored fields and court since Hurricane Helene and dedicated them to God’s purpose for Asheville Christian Academy. Through it all, God has strengthened ACA’s foundation for generations of future student-athletes.
May it serve as a lasting reminder that while storms may come, God has sustained us, and we move forward with faith, community, and courage.
New ACA Hires
We are thrilled to welcome three new team members to Asheville Christian! Each brings unique gifts and talents to critical roles that support our mission and help our school thrive.
This month, our Character Education focus is on Goodness, with an emphasis on Good Judgment. Jesus taught about judgment both in terms of His ultimate authority to judge and how we are to treat one another. He emphasized righteous judgment, which involves discerning truth and acting justly, while cautioning against judging others based on appearances or with a condemning spirit.
Jesus reminded us that we will be judged by the same standard we use for others, calling us to approach situations with fairness, humility, and wisdom. Good judgment is both a natural ability and a learned skill, one that can be developed over time through guidance, experience, and a commitment to truth.
It is important for students to understand that good judgment helps them make wise decisions, treat others with respect, and respond thoughtfully in all situations. When students learn to seek truth and act justly, they reflect Christ’s goodness in their daily lives. Scripture reinforces this in John 7:24, “Stop judging by mere appearances, but instead judge correctly.”
As we focus on goodness and good judgment this month, may we encourage students to think carefully, act fairly, and reflect Christ’s love and truth in all they do.
Character Education
Featured Events
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Reminder
Thursday, April 2nd is a noon dismissal. Please note that there will be no aftercare available that day.
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Easter Break
There will be no school on Friday, April 3rd or Monday, April 6th. We pray you have a meaningful weekend reflecting on the sacrifice of our Savior and celebrating the joy of His resurrection.
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Episode 2 is Live!
In this episode, we sit down with Sara Nix, a devoted mother of five and ACA's current PTF President, to hear the story behind her family’s remarkable commitment to the school. Driving over an hour each way, Sara shares what makes ACA worth the daily sacrifice—and why her family continues to choose this community year after year.
She reflects on the impact ACA has had on each of her children across lower, middle, and upper school, and how faith, academics, and relationships have shaped their growth.
Along the way, she speaks to the deeper “why” behind their decision—the values, experiences, and Christ-centered environment that make ACA not just a school, but a place where her children are truly known and nurtured.
Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts
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Parenting Together with Sean McDowell
If you missed last Friday’s Parenting Together event featuring Dr. Sean McDowell, you can watch it at the link here.
Dr. McDowell, a gifted communicator, bestselling author, and passionate advocate for equipping young people, shared practical and encouraging insights for parents seeking to help their children confidently live out their faith. Known for his humor, engaging stories, and thoughtful, evidence-based approach, he drew from his work on books like So the Next Generation Will Know, Chasing Love, and Evidence That Demands a Verdict.
This conversation is a valuable resource for families navigating how to think biblically and engage today’s culture with truth and grace, and it is also well suited for middle and high school students to watch.
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2026–2027 Parent Calendar Now Available
The 2026–2027 Parent Calendar is now ready! Families can begin planning for key dates including the Back to School Bash (August 17), the first day of school (August 19 – noon dismissal), holidays, parent nights, Winterim, Spring Break, and end-of-year events like Baccalaureate (May 28) and Graduation (May 29).
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The ACA Fund
We are grateful to share that, thanks to your generosity, we have raised $401,000 to date through gifts, pledges, and the matching fund contribution. This brings us to 99% of our $406,000 goal—just $5,000 away from completion.
If you are able, please consider making a gift or pledge to help us cross the finish line. All gifts must be received by June 30, 2026.
Thank you for your faithful support and continued commitment to ACA.
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Summer Camp Session is now open!
We are delighted to announce that registration for the 2026 Summer Camp session is now open. Please click the button below to view the camp brochure and access the registration link.
Our team is looking forward to a summer filled with fun, learning, and memorable experiences. We hope to see your child at camp this summer.
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ACA Corporation
At Asheville Christian Academy, we are more than a school. We are a community shaped by shared purpose and partnership. One meaningful way families engage in that partnership is through membership in the ACA Corporation.
Each year, parents and employees are invited to join the Corporation and play a vital role in supporting the school’s mission and future. Corporation members help affirm leadership through the election of the Board of Directors, who safeguard ACA’s mission and direction while the Head of School leads its daily work. Together, this structure provides clarity, accountability, and long-term strength.
Becoming part of the Corporation is more than a formality. It is an opportunity to participate in stewardship, invest in the life of the school, and help ensure ACA remains rooted in its Christ centered mission for the 2026 to 2027 school year.
Thank you for being an essential part of our community.
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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Parent Connect & Equip
Join us Friday, April 10 at 8:30am in the library for Parent Connect & Equip—a meaningful gathering where parents come together to explore relevant cultural topics through the lens of Scripture. This time is designed to deepen your understanding, engage with God’s Word, and connect with other parents through thoughtful discussion and fellowship. For questions or more information, please contact Kate Williamson at kate.williamson@ashevillechristian.org.
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The Coffee Connection
The first Friday of every month 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, April 10 from 8-9:30 a.m.
Where: Meet at the Coffee Truck (if it is raining, bring your coffee to student union)
Who: All parents are invited
*Lower school parents may walk their children to class at the allowed time and then join us at the Coffee Truck.
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Worship Wednesday
Final Worship Wednesday
7:30 to 7:45 AM
April 15, 2026We invite all families to join us for the final Worship Wednesday of the school year, a special time to gather in corporate worship as a school community.
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Dominion Safety Corner
Our security partner Dominion Company Police shares important insights on protecting children in today’s digital world, from online gaming risks to social media safety. This month’s Safety Corner highlights what every parent should know to help keep students safe both on and offline. Be sure to read the full article linked below.
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Track Access
We’re excited to share that our team has begun practicing on the new track! While this is an exciting milestone, the track is not yet open for ACA family use. Construction is still ongoing in the surrounding areas, and access remains limited for safety reasons. We look forward to sharing an official opening announcement once the project is fully complete.
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Dismissal Reminder
Parents, please remember that any changes to your child’s dismissal plan should be updated in SchoolPass. This helps us ensure a smooth and safe dismissal for all students.
Thank you for your cooperation!
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Save the Date: Sports Physicals
Mark your calendars! Sports physicals for rising 6th–12th graders will be held May 13 after school.
The cost is $20 (cash or check only).
More details coming soon!
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Car Tag Reminder
Please do not throw away your car tags at the end of the school year. These tags can be reused for the following school year.
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New List Item
Now is a great time to stock up on school uniforms. Enjoy 25% off at Lands' End Outfitters now through April 13.
Use code HOPANDSAVE25 at checkout to take advantage of this limited time offer.
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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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
Hello, Dolly! – Upper School Spring Musical
Don’t miss our Upper School production of Hello, Dolly!! This classic, high-energy musical follows the charming and clever Dolly Levi as she sets out to matchmake for others—while finding a little romance for herself along the way. Filled with humor, heart, and unforgettable songs, it’s a delightful story about love, second chances, and embracing life to the fullest. Our show is family-friendly and runs approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect outing for all ages. Tickets are available now—come support our talented students and enjoy a wonderful night of theatre. Runs April 23-25: Thursday & Friday night at 7:00pm and Saturday at 1:00pm & 6:00pm.
Join Us for the Annual Gong Show!
ACA’s Tri-M Music Honor Society and ITS Theatre Honor Society invite you to a fun and satirical evening at our annual Gong Show on Saturday, April 11 at 7:00 PM. This beloved event showcases a wide range of ACA student talents and non-talents, making it a night full of laughter and surprises.
Bring the whole family to cheer on our performers! Admission is $3 per person, and the evening will feature grand prizes, door prizes, and concession snacks available for purchase. Enjoy a lively night hosted by student MCs and judged by mystery faculty, all in support of our Music and Theatre Honor Societies.
Upcoming Home Games
We have an exciting lineup of upcoming home games. Come out and support our teams!
April 2 – Varsity Baseball vs. Elizabethton High (TN) | 4:30 PM
April 7 – Varsity Soccer vs. Rabun Gap | 5:00 PM
April 7 – Varsity Baseball vs. Christ School | 4:30 PM
April 7 – MS Soccer vs. Rabun Gap | 3:45 PM
April 7 – Varsity Tennis vs. Rabun Gap | 4:00 PM
April 9 – Varsity Soccer vs. Asheville School | 4:30 PM
April 9 – MS Baseball vs. Athlete Lab | 4:00 PM
April 14 – Varsity Baseball vs. Rabun Gap | 5:00 PM
ACA Athletic History
Interested in ACA athletic history? Help us continue building our athletics archive, now displayed on the touchscreen in the East Athletic Upper School hallway within the new trophy cases. We are seeking action photos of all athletes, past and present, as well as team and championship photos. Some of this content was lost in the flood, and your help is greatly appreciated.
Have questions or materials to share? Please contact Joe Johnson, Director of Athletics, at joe.johnson@ashevillechristian.org.
In Case You Missed It
Parenting Together with Sean McDowell
If you missed last Friday’s Parenting Together event featuring Dr. Sean McDowell, you can watch it at the link here.
Dr. McDowell, a gifted communicator, bestselling author, and passionate advocate for equipping young people, shared practical and encouraging insights for parents seeking to help their children confidently live out their faith. Known for his humor, engaging stories, and thoughtful, evidence-based approach, he drew from his work on books like So the Next Generation Will Know, Chasing Love, and Evidence That Demands a Verdict.
This conversation is a valuable resource for families navigating how to think biblically and engage today’s culture with truth and grace, and it is also well suited for middle and high school students to watch.
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 Rep Visits
North Greenville University – Wed, April 8, lunchtime in Student Union
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College Counseling Updates
Fill out the Guidance bulletin board with your plans after ACA!
Pay attention to any emails you receive from your Guidance Office or the colleges where you are applying.
Update your application outcomes in Scoir.
Come and see us if you want to discuss your decisions.
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Upper School Advising & Course Planning Updates
Grades 8–11
Upper School course request forms are available at the US Office. Advising meetings are available through April 17. Juniors are required to attend with a parent.Students A–J will meet with Mrs. Bullock
Students K–Z will meet with Mrs. Boer
Calendar links will be sent via email. -

Testing & Advising Updates
Advising: Juniors and a parent are prioritized through mandatory advising meetings. A-J meet with Mrs. Bullock, K-Z meet with Mrs. Boer. Advising runs Feb. 9 – April 17. Calendar links will be sent via email.
Save the Date: Rising Seniors College Planning webinar, Monday, April 27, 7pm