Victory Christian Academy - Sonoma County

VCA Senior Stories

In honor of our graduating classes from Victory Christian Academy, we would like to recognize each and every one of them.

Class of 2024

BETHANY BARKER

I played volleyball and basketball at VCA. I enjoyed it a lot, and it was a super fun and growing experience. I like singing and playing the drums for my church and for weekly chapels at VCA. Before VCA it was RVC, and I attended that school. When it shut down, I transferred schools but then found my way back to VCA.

I plan on attending Santa Rosa Junior College next year, and then possibly transfer to a four year college after some time. My career path has always been so many different things but over several months, I have seen a passion arise for being a therapist. Helping people has always been a passion, and I feel, with this profession, I could help several people.

VCA has a really good elementary program, and will set your foundation right with God from a young age.

My favorite Bible verse is Deuteronomy 31:6 "Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you or forsake you.”
LARISA BASCH

Art is one of my favorite hobbies and pastimes to express what I am feeling whether on paper, or canvas. I also love babysitting, and watching kids learn and grow. I started out from preschool to eighth grade at Windsor Christian Academy. After graduating from there, I spent my freshman and start of sophomore year at Windsor High School. After being harassed and bullied in a public school where everyone I met was trying to categorize me, I asked my parents to pull me out. The rest of that year I was homeschooled. After a while, my mum and I realized that I needed to be with other kids. We found VCA, and when I showed up, everyone was so nice to me and accepted who I was. I can proudly say that I have had a wonderful bully-free experience in the last two years that I've been here.

After I graduate high school, I plan to earn my bachlor's degree in being a preschool teacher in Arizona at Grand Canyon University.

My favorite Bible verse is Isaiah 18:4 - This is what the Lord says to me: “I will remain quiet and will look on from my dwelling place, like shimmering heat in the sunshine, like a cloud of dew in the heat of harvest.”

I love this bible verse because it talks about sunshine, and when I was younger, my mum would always sing me the song, 'you are my sunshine'. I also like this verse because it talks about how The Lord will come when the time is right.
ABIGAIL MENJIVAR

I absolutely love music. It is the one thing -apart from God- that calms my soul and lifts my spirits. I also like drawing, writing, and reading. I enjoy going out with my friends and visiting new places. I go to the gym regularly for my mental and physical health. I know how to play the violin, and used to play in an official mariachi band. I have a deep love for volunteering and doing non-profit work. I currently am part of a community engagement team that focuses on addressing educational justice for high school students. At first I came to VCA because my parents wanted me to go to a better school that was safer and centered in Christ. And in the beginning I was reluctant but later realized this school was the best thing that could happen to my spiritual and religious life. Here, I met some of the most honest and genuine people I am lucky to call my friends. Although my school experience could have been better, I, even in the midst of the challenges and change, found moments of growth, learning and even greater resilience. Within these two years I belonged to this school, I brought on a truly life changing journey that challenged me spiritually and mentally like never before. I acknowledge my experiences were not all exceptional, but the positive outcomes that were made for me are worth noting. And in spite of all the times I have fallen and faced adversity, I have only gotten up stronger than the last. I have changed and grown, and its been a wonderful change only God could have granted me. These past two years of my life, especially senior year have been beautiful, and they only make me excited for the future even more. Ultimately, each individual's experience with schools are unique, and finding meaning and growth in difficult situations is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

I plan to attend the Santa Rosa Junior College for two years before I transfer to UC San Diego or UC Davis. Since a young age I have always been fond of the human body and always had a calling towards the medical field. I have the unbearable hunger to be able to help people suffering from physical or mental issues, from all parts of the world. I love human bio ethics and plan to become an endocrinologist or neurologist. I have got big dreams I plan on fulfilling, and I know ultimately Christ will guide me into whichever way he knows is right for me.

VCA has mostly helped me with my relationship with Christ. I have, through my journey here, come closer to my faith which has made me a better daughter, friend, and student. My choice to become a better person through Christ was a personal choice that God granted me within, but I can agree my choice of school jump started my spiritual journey.

My favorite Bible Verse is Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.
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CAMRYN SHIRLEY

I’ve enjoyed playing volleyball and basketball at VCA. Although the teams were small, it brought a sense of community to us all. My hobbies are sports, baking, and being with friends and family.

I plan to attend the SRJC for two years to study kinesiology and pre-occupational therapy, Then, I would like to transfer to a four year program like The Masters University or George Fox.

I think people should attend VCA because it is a very welcoming environment. Although it is small, it gives a lot more opportunities than a larger public school does. There is a strong sense of community and personalized attention because of the class sizes. It is a very supportive environment and I’ve been able to find my best friends here.

My favorite verse is Philippians 4:13: "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."
JACLYN WEEK

I have been playing Club - Competitive Soccer for the past six years and really enjoy any activity that involves being outside. I love going for hikes at Annadel Park, going for runs at the beach, and just hanging out with family and friends.

My plan after graduation is to play Soccer, a couple more years, for the Santa Rosa Junior College. I plan to complete my general education at SRJC then transfer to a college in Southern California to get my Bachelor of Science in Nursing. My dream is to become a Pediatric Nurse.

I really have been fortunate to have some amazing teachers at VCA. I truly appreciate their help, support, and guidance over the past couple of years.

My favorite Bible verse is - 1 Corinthians 16:14. Let all that you do be done in love.

CLASS of 2023

GRACIE ARENDT

I'm a competitive figure skater; I've been skating for almost a decade, and it is my greatest passion. I'm also an avid reader and musician (I have been in band as a clarinetist and choir as an alto all throughout high school). As a well-known Disney lover, I am always planning my next trip! I love to travel and hope to soak up as much of the world as I can.
My family means the world to me and I love spending time with them, so when my mom was hired as a teacher at VCA, I came with her to be close to her, as well as have a Christian education.
I will be attending Biola University in the fall on their highest academic scholarship. I will be majoring in business and have also been accepted into the Torrey Honors Program. I plan to work in upper management for Disney, specifically as a project manager. I also have plans to work in mental health advocacy and support cancer research.
Some of the teachers there that I've had have blessed me more than they will ever know. They saw me in my struggle and not only worked with me through my difficulties, but also encouraged me in my trials. The love of Jesus was shining in those people, and it has helped make me who I am.

Favorite Bible Verse -
Psalm 94:19 “When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy.”
RYAN BENESTAD

Since junior high I've played basketball, volleyball, tennis, flag football, and baseball for VCA. I've played summer leagues for basketball and play tennis with my siblings. Besides that, I enjoy video games with friends, music, and eating. The reason I'm at VCA is because I had been going to RVC since 1st grade, and when the school shut down, I wanted to go to the new one that would be opening in its place.
I'm planning on attending a four year college and getting an education at a UC or CSU and will be studying either Mechanical Engineering or Physics.
People should attend VCA because it's a great community, and you can have great relationships with your peers, teachers, and other staff members. It makes you feel more included instead of ignored.
Favorite Bible verse-
Isaiah 53:5 "He was pierced because of our rebellions and crushed because of our crimes. He bore the punishment that made us whole; by his wounds we are healed."
EMMA CUNNINGHAM

I have been going to RVC and VCA since preschool, and I love it. I love all of my friends and the community here. It always feels like such a welcoming environment. I enjoy reading, art, music, and playing solitaire. Music is my passion and I've been so grateful to have been in band and choir since elementary school. In addition to music, I've also been in a few sports at VCA such as volleyball, basketball, and tennis, as well as the other extra curricular activities I enjoy, I also had the honor of being the student council president this year. I will always recommend doing student council as it is such a fun, productive environment where we get to serve the student body and get to plan things throughout the year to make VCA fun. If you ever see me in person, you'll see I'm accompanied by a furry friend. I have a diabetic alert service dog named Totem who will always put a smile on your face.
I will be attending William Jessup University with a major in music production and possibly a minor in musical performance. I would love to get into the music production field and do what I love in making music, maybe even producing my own one day.
I would encourage coming to VCA for a loving, Christian environment. I've loved my time at VCA because of all my friends and how welcomed I've felt throughout the years by everyone that goes. It's been so fun growing relationships with so many fellow students and all the amazing people that go and or work there.
I'm so grateful for the staff at VCA as well. They care so genuinely for us as students, and their top priority is for us to succeed and enjoy our school experience. They not only help you grow academically, but help you grow as a person as well. Throughout the years, I have struggled in many areas, and the staff has always been so understanding and have always been there for me. It has been such a blessing to have the faculty as an additional source of support.

Favorite Bible Verse -
Proverbs 31:25
Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come.
GRACE FRITZ

I am blessed to have attended VCA for my junior and senior year of high school. I played volleyball, was involved in student council, and was in band and choir. Outside of school, I enjoy cheerleading, hiking, and crafting. I was brought to VCA because of its Christian environment.
After high school I plan to go to Santa Rosa Junior College and major in dental hygiene. I've been privileged with the opportunity to be a part of the SRJC cheerleading team so I will be continuing with that throughout the next school year.
I would encourage anyone to attend VCA. The welcoming and Christ-centered atmosphere makes school so enjoyable. You can really feel the community between students and staff as a whole and the smaller student body makes it easier to get involved and get to know everyone.

Favorite Bible Verse -
"Let all that you do be done in love." 1 Corinthians 16:14
JHONATAN GRAMAJO

In my two years of attending VCA, I was blessed to play many things. I was able to play basketball, flag football, tennis, and even baseball and It's been so much fun being able to learn new things. In that time I was able to play music more often which was huge for me since playing music and singing is a good hobby of mine. I was thankfully offered to attend VCA in 11th grade after some things had happened recently and being able to attend VCA has been a decision I thank God for each day. Being able to meet new people and meet the teachers there have greatly changed my life to be more christ-centered.
God willingly, I hope to attend a four-year college after high school ends. I hope to attend Biola and be able to achieve a major in Electrical Engineering while also minoring in a ministry.
Someone that has VCA on their minds should definitely attend here. In my two years of attending here, I was greeted with so much kindness and I felt welcomed in every way possible. The friends I was able to see again and those I got to meet was a blessing from God. The teachers are also really friendly and those that I've had inspired me to do good in school but also learn more about God.
Favorite Bible Verse -
Romans 8:28 "And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."
KYLE HILKEY

I have played flag football, basketball, and baseball at VCA. I have also participated in band, choir, and student council. I enjoy watching movies, swimming, and playing video games with my friends in my free time. I came to VCA after attending RVC since pre-k. I chose VCA because I knew it would be an amazing fit for me with wonderful people.
I am going to be attending college online through Southern New Hampshire University and pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science with a concentration in software engineering.
Someone should attend VCA because it is a very welcoming tight-knitted community with amazing people and supportive administration. VCA has a great Christ-centered environment that is very encouraging and helpful to the students.

Favorite Bible Verse -
Colossians 3:23-24 "Whatever you do, whatever kind of work you are doing, work heartily, with all your heart and all the different ways that plays out in scripture, with Christ-like character, with honesty, with diligence, with integrity, with humility. So work heartily as for the Lord and not for men."
NICK SEVIER

I enjoy engineering, mixing, and producing music. I was brought to VCA by friends.
I plan to go to SRJC for the certificate programs in audio engineering and music production.
Someone should attend VCA because of the super fun staff and students.
Favorite Bible Verse -
Ephesians 1:9 "making known to us the mystery of his will, according to his purpose, which he set forth in Christ"
CANA SHIRLEY

I love to read, garden, paint, as well as spend time with my loved ones! I did not play any sports at VCA but I tried my best to be present for the games to support my friends and fellow student body. I was originally brought to VCA directly after my freshmen year ended, at first it was a big change but I soon grew to love being here with my new friends.
After high school I plan to work as much as possible, and in September I will be attending my first semester at Oregon State University. I will be majoring in botany but I also have interest in floristry.
Someone should attend VCA because it was the best place for me to be at a time in my life, and it could be for someone else too. I have felt nothing but welcomed when being here, and I get a hello from students and staff everyday. I feel prepared to interact outside of school in the real world.
Favorite Bible verse -
Matthew 6:34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of it’s own.
JAREN ZURAKOWSKI

Ever since a young age, I’ve been playing sports, starting out playing soccer in my youth and mostly keeping with it until freshman year of high school. I’ve also done karate and basketball, and I played flag football and baseball here at VCA during my senior year. I also enjoy playing video games, especially games with strategy or adventure involved, as well as writing, drawing, reading, and all kinds of activities. I try to do as much as I can, since I always seem to enjoy it. I’ve also played many different kinds of instruments, including piano, violin, guitar, flute, and choir (both at school and at church), even learning trombone just for the VCA band.
After high school, I plan on doing two years at the Santa Rosa Junior College, and then transferring to another college to complete a bachelor’s in psychology. From there, I hope to get accepted into medical school to become a psychiatrist.
About two-thirds of the way through junior year at Maria Carrillo High School, I finally decided that it wasn’t a great fit for me and transferred to VCA instead. There, I found a friendly, close-knit community full of people who weren’t afraid to show me God’s love. Even though I’ve only had one full year plus one quarter at VCA, I’ve been included by students and staff alike, as well as assisted as much as I’ve needed along the journey towards graduation.

Favorite Bible Verse -
Deuteronomy 10:12-13 "And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the Lord’s commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?"

Class of 2022

GRACEE BARKER

I enjoy hanging out with friends and family, singing, volunteering at my church, and playing sports. In all my high school experience, I have played basketball, volleyball, and golf. I'm a very athletic person, and I will try any sport you throw at me. I came to VCA because I had a lot of bad public school experiences, and I needed a good environment, that happened to be familiar to me. I attended RVC 8th and 9th grade, and then when it closed down, I attended Healdsburg High. And after God led my family to Texas, and then led us back to California in a matter of 2 months, I needed Godly people surrounding me.
I plan on attending Santa Rosa Junior College for 2 years, and then transferring to a 4 year university. My goal, then, is to get my bachelors in teaching. I've always had a passion for young kids, and I believe that God is leading me to teach, guide, and lead our next generations.
Students should attend VCA, because it has an amazing faculty that exonerates God, and the curriculum teaches on the foundations of Jesus. VCA has helped me grow, because I am able to just be there and lead as an example without feeling judged for being a Christian, whereas in a public schools, young believers tend to lose their zeal for God, due to peer pressure.
Favorite Bible verse - Philippians 4:6-7
do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
SAM CARIS

Though this is my first year at VCA, I have enjoyed being a part of band, choir, and playing on the tennis team. Outside of school, I am a Junior Instructor at Nordquist-Taylor Dance, where I weekly teach middle-school-age students how to dance. Some of my hobbies include going on walks around my neighborhood, stargazing, and playing Minecraft. The reason I came to VCA was in search of a school that was centered around Christ. I had previously attended Rincon Valley Christian School from Pre-K to 9th grade, so coming back to VCA was a no-brainer for me.
After graduating, I am planning on attending a four-year Christian university where I will study for a degree in Finance. From there, I will see where the Lord takes me in my career.
I would encourage anyone to attend VCA who is interested in a small-school--but growing--Christian environment. VCA has weekly chapels, and each and every class is taught with a basis in Christianity. The staff at VCA are amazing, they work very hard for the students, and have great senses of humor. I have made many impactful and lasting friendships during my time at VCA, and I am very glad to call VCA my school.
Favorite Bible Verse
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7
ISAIAH CUNNINGHAM

I had been going to RVC since I was in Pre-K, so I knew my way around this campus for a little while. Having the opportunity to stay at this campus with friends who I knew and loved along with the teachers and staff was impossible to pass up. I enjoy playing sports, like basketball and tennis, which I play for the school. I also enjoy music, playing games, and hanging out with friends outside of school.
I plan on going straight into a 4-year college, either Grand Canyon University or California Baptist University. My career path is aimed at the business world, either majoring in Sports Management or a Financial field.
VCA is like a home away from home. The students get along together well, no matter the grade level, and the staff is constantly caring for their students and aiming to give what is best for each and every student. For me, VCA has helped me grow exceedingly in my academics, but it has also helped me with my social skills and leadership abilities. Thanks to VCA, my relationship with Christ has grown, through learning about His presence in every single subject that we learn and how He is plain and evident in our daily lives, all the while caring for us.
Favorite Bible Verse - Matthew 11:28-30
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
LANDON DONNELS

I play basketball at VCA. But I also play lacrosse outside of school. I like to workout. I like riding dirt bikes. What brought me to VCA was some friends that I had that were there and the community that I found I really enjoyed.
My plan for after high school is be in the Marines. I actually ship out for boot camp on July 25 so I am already set and ready to go. I am going to be a Combat engineer in the Marines. I will be in the Marines for 4 years. And after that I want to join Calfire and be a wildland firefighter.
I think someone should join VCA to join a nice community of people who enjoy learning and having fun.
Favorite Bible Verse - Jeremiah 29:11 - For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope.
A little motivational quote.
“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.”
Semper Fi
JESSICA GONZALEZ

Throughout high school, I have played volleyball, basketball, and tennis. Some extracurricular activities I enjoy are volunteering at summer camp and singing in choir. Some hobbies I have are baking and journaling. The reason why I came to VCA is because I wanted a Christ-centered education and wanted to be surrounded in a Christian environment. I wanted to be somewhere where I can learn freely about Christ and spiritually grow.
I plan on attending a four-year college right after high school. I will be attending Sonoma State University and will be majoring in Business Administration.
People should attend VCA because the staff here are amazing. It never feels like a burden whenever you come across a teacher. All of the staff are so kind. Whenever a student needs help, staff are always there to help.
Favorite Bible verse - Psalm 73:27
"My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever."
LUCIA HUESCA MIRANDA

I played basketball and volleyball at VCA. I work and enjoy hanging out with friends. My mom works for VCA, and she liked the school and thought it would be a nice environment for us to be in and to get closer to God.
After high school graduation, I think I will start with SRJC to figure out what I want to do and plan to transfer later on.
Kids should attend VCA because it's a great environment, and it's a small school that is growing but you have access to more help in school. Everyone is friendly so you can fit right it. They do lots of fun things and are very helpful with whatever problems. and it's a good school to build and continue your relationship with Christ.
Favorite Bible Verse - Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
JOSH KING

I played basketball for our high school boys basketball team which was a lot of fun. I like History. I like to workout and go to the gym. I wanted to be in a community that was kind, God-centered, fun, and loving.
I am going to go to the JC for two years, then transfer to another college or go to a trade school. I would like to be in real estate or construction work.
You should attend VCA if you want to be in a community that has a lot of fun but is God-centered in all that they do. It helped me find good friends and helped me figure out what I want to do in my life.
Favorite Bible verse? Hebrews 4:12
For the word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the division of soul and of spirit, of joints and of marrow, and discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.
VERONICA KNIGHT

My name is Veronica, and I can confidently say that God brought me to VCA. I transferred here for senior year, and it was a lot more fun than I had been anticipating. Right off the bat, I joined the volleyball team even though I had no idea how to play volleyball! As the season went on, I grew in my skill and made friends along the way. However, outside of school, there are many other activities that I enjoy. Reading crime novels and doing research are probably my top two hobbies if listening to music is too average, but I do also enjoy playing video games, watching movies with friends, and going to Bible studies.
After graduation, I will be moving to Tennessee to attend Lee University. While I'm there, along with making friends, memories, and improving my relationship with God, I plan to study criminal justice and forensic science. I've always loved science and researching serial killers, and I'm so excited to pursue both. I will be moving forward in studying forensic criminology, and from there become a coroner, forensic pathologist, or a homicide detective. Since not many Christians enter my field, I hope to bring inspiration and make a difference.
Every time someone asks me about VCA and what makes our school so special, I always give them the same answer: The teachers. The teachers here at VCA are so invested in their students that they know each and every one of us personally. When I am feeling like I am struggling, I am never condemned by my teachers. Instead, they take time out of their day to make sure I understand the material and strive. I talk to my teachers daily and ask about their day, and it's always an amazing conversation. The teachers here just really love and care about their students, which makes this school so magnificent and unique.
Favorite Bible verse -
Proverbs 12:25 "Anxiety in a man's heart weighs it down, but a good word makes it glad."
SPENCER RODGERS

Hi my name is Spencer Rodgers, what brought me to VCA was that my sister attended RVC, I came to RVC in 7th grade and my freshman year RVC closed so then I went to VCA. I played basketball my sophomore year and planned to play it this year, but didn't have enough time. Outside of school I do 4-H and raise animals at the Healdsburg Future Farmers Country Fair.
I plan on going to the JC and getting my mechanics and diesel mechanics certificate. I also plan on pursuing a business career as a tractor operator.
Since VCA is a smaller school, the teachers can help you If you need help.
Favorite Bible Verse - Psalm 37:5
Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.

CLASS OF 2021

Our first graduating class from VCA!

Stephen Arthur

Hello, and thank you for taking time to read my story. My name is Stephen Arthur, and I am part of the first graduating class at VCA this coming June. While attending VCA, I have been given the opportunity to play an instrument, play sports, sing in the school choir, and attend JC classes. Outside of VCA, I like to play sports like football and basketball, as well as getting involved with my incredible youth group (Calvary Chapel the Rock). When I first attended VCA, I didn't want to go to school. I didn't like that it was new and it didn't offer football. But not long after attending, I quickly realized how much I love the school due to its sensational students and staff. Now, after attending the former RVC and graduating from the young VCA, I can honestly say, VCA is a superior school in almost every way.

After high school, I plan on attending Santa Rosa JC to earn a degree in marketing; as well as additionally playing football in the fall. However, that could all change depending on the LORD's plan for my life in these coming months.

As Christians (all of God’s creation) our purpose is to give glory to God in all we do. Part of giving glory to the LORD involves giving God our best. When students attend VCA, both them and their parents are getting the best Christian education in Sonoma county. The school not only assists students in being better prepared for college, but provides a solid foundation in Christianity for all students who attend. In the past two years I have attended VCA, I have been surrounded by an awesome cast of classmates who encourage me to love both the Lord and my neighbor every single day. There really is no other school like it!

My favorite verse comes from Romans 12: 1-2 “And so dear brothers and sisters, I plead with you to give your bodies to God because of all he has done for you. Let them be a living and holy sacrifice-the kind he will find acceptable. This is truly the way to worship him. Don't copy the behavior and customer of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God's will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect.”

To all students and parents looking at VCA, I highly recommend the school for its loving environment, college prep, competitive sports, and ecstatic student body which all play a part in making it the best Sonoma county has to offer. I hope my story has given you much to consider. Fly eagles fly! From your brother in Christ, Stephen Arthur.

Kyle Benestad

Although my senior year has been pretty unusual, I’m excited to be graduating with the first senior class of VCA. After previously attending Rincon Valley Christian school, I decided to enroll at VCA where I was able to reconnect with fellow classmates and retain a Christ-centered education. Having an environment like VCA has provided me with a school where I can challenge myself academically but also grow spiritually in all my classes. While at VCA, some of the things I’ve been able to participate in have been student leadership and sports. I’ve enjoyed being a part of the student council over the last two years and working with my classmates to put on fun events. I’ve also loved playing tennis and basketball at VCA. Most of all, I’m so thankful to have been in a place where I have such a great group of friends to finish high school and graduate with. Outside of school, I have been involved in Boy Scouts and currently am in the final steps of achieving my Eagle Scout Rank. After I graduate this year, I plan to go to college and study environmental science. While I look forward to this next stage of my life, I know that it's going to be incredibly hard to move away from the great relationships and memories I’ve created at VCA. Joshua 1:9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

Ashton Bogue

I'm honored to be graduating with the first senior class of VCA in 2021! I'm thankful God blessed me with VCA. The best part of a private, Christian school is being surrounded by friends and teachers who point you to Christ in all circumstances. My senior year has been a lot of fun, even though it is very different than I always imagined due to COVID. I must say, doing school in my pjs is pretty awesome 😉. Additionally, I now work at Chick Fil-A in Santa Rosa, so come visit me! This summer after I graduate, I am moving to Texas and plan to go to school at Southplains College. There, I will study to become a Radiologic Technologist. My hope is to work at a children's hospital, or at least in a pediatric department if possible since I love kids. I'm excited to see where God takes me in the next stage of life, so please be in prayer that I will do well in college and that I won't miss my CA friends and family too much. Thank you VCA family!

Tobi Cunningham

Greetings! My name is Tobi Cunningham, and I am a senior at Victory Christian Academy. I enrolled at VCA my junior year, and I am so excited to be part of the first, graduating class of this excellent school. Victory Christian Academy has pushed me academically, socially, and spiritually to grow as an individual amongst a campus body unified under one purpose: glorifying Christ. VCA has also given me the opportunity to pursue all of my interests, including sports, music, and student leadership. Once I graduate high school, I hope to continue playing sports and performing music in college, while also working towards achieving a BS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. As a senior, I am sad to be departing from such a loving and inspiring community, but I am excited for the new experiences that lie ahead of me. I think that Victory Christian Academy has prepared me to enter into the world and blaze my own, new trail with God guiding me along the way.

“Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:30-31

Sean Edlin

I am a senior in the first graduating class of VCA. I decided to attend here for the strong Christian education and healthy environment that allows me to grow as a person and as a follower of Christ. Some of my favorite things to do are spending time with friends, playing sports such as basketball and tennis, and creative writing.

After high school I plan on attending Wayland Baptist University in Texas and majoring in English. After that I would like to explore some form of journalism or grant writing.

Similar to why I attended VCA, I would encourage people to go here because of the strong Christ-centered community and environment. Not only are students pushed academically, but as people, and that really helps in preparation for going out into the world past high school.

My favorite verse is Romans 8:28 which says," And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose." I like this verse because it is comforting and reminds me no matter what, God is in control of the situation and I can trust His plan for me and my life.

Thomas Mitten

My name is Thomas and I attended RVC for all my life until it was closed down, and I made the decision to stay at VCA. I valued the education I would get here, as a private school generally provides better education than a public one. I played basketball at VCA and although I wasn’t very good, everyone was welcoming and encouraging. After school I enjoy working at my job at Sweet T’s as well as playing video games, and skateboarding.

I plan on attending the SRJC in the hopes to get In their nursing program. I watched my mom go through the JC’s program and it made me extremely proud of my mom, and I now want to follow in her footsteps.

VCA not only provides an above average education, but the campus environment is much friendlier than you’d find elsewhere. My teachers and fellow classmates have pushed me not only to pass my classes, but to excel.

Isaiah 41:10

Fear not, for I am with you;

Be not dismayed, for I am your God.

I will strengthen you,

Yes, I will help you,

I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

CONNER SKILES

My name is Conner Skiles and I have only attended VCA for one year. I attended RVC before it closed down and I played football while I was there. In my free time I enjoy fishing, spending time with friends, and anything to do with cars.

I am going to work full time out of high school at America’s tire and put away savings early for my future. I’m not sure what I want to do long term at the moment but wherever the Lord leads I plan to follow.

You should attend VCA because of the amazing people that you will meet there who love God and strengthen the community. VCA has helped me grow through the exploration of other world-views which has strengthened my foundation in the Christian worldview.

Isaiah 40:31

but they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength;

they shall mount up with wings like eagles;

they shall run and not be weary;

they shall walk and not faint.

Jack Stewart

I like electronics of all kinds, whether that is for creating music, or taking and editing videos/photos, or running my own code. I find any field of electronics not just fascinating, but instantly engaging.

I plan to attend Santa Rosa Junior College, then transfer to another college. Maybe a music school, or a major in computer science or (drone) videography/photography

VCA quite simply has refined my character and stability far beyond what normally would have been a stressful senior year. While my time at public school was a strife to bear through, VCA has been nothing but a blessing.

Proverbs 25:27 "It is not good to eat much honey, nor is it glorious to seek one's own glory."

Kelsey Thomas

I am so blessed to be able to attend Victory Christian Academy and be a part of this amazing community. Finishing high school here, surrounded by loving, supportive, and uplifting teachers and friends, is something that I will never regret. In addition, I could not have asked for a better group of friends to spend my senior year with and I am so excited to graduate with them this spring! Currently, I enjoy playing sports such as volleyball and tennis and I am so grateful that I got the opportunity to play these sports at VCA. Other than sports, I also enjoy reading, playing the ukulele, exercising, being with friends, and studying God's Word. After I graduate, I am interested in studying psychology and possibly going into forensics. I am not sure where I want to study yet but I am excited to see where the Lord leads me. I might not have everything figured out, but I know God has a perfect plan for my life and I am excited to discover what he has in store for me. Galatians 2:20 "I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me."

Sadie Wade

I enjoy art like drawing and painting. I love to play tennis and have been playing throughout all of high school. I decided to attend VCA because I knew it was a great school after previously going to RVC a year ago and missed all of my friends there.

I am planning on going to Biola and am going to study Nutrition in hopes to become a Nutritionist.

VCA is an amazing school and has helped me grow in my relationship with God and has also helped me to grow in good friendships as well as my academics. The teachers here are very patient and have great teaching skills in a way that I am able to understand and learn.

My favorite Bible verse is Isaiah 54:10 “Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed," says the Lord, who has compassion on you.”

Alex Waller

Hi my name is Alex Waller, and I am a Senior at VCA. I really enjoy music and sports, which takes up a lot of my free time as well as work and playing video games with my friends. I played basketball at VCA last year but haven't done any sports this year. What brought me to VCA is that I really care about Christian education and having a personal connection with my teachers. The fact that I can go to them if I’m having a rough time even outside of schooling is so encouraging and is something I appreciate a lot. My plan for after high school is to work and go to the SRJC to get my gen ed out of the way and figure out what career path interests me. VCA has not only helped me grow as a person but also as a Christian. Being surrounded by my peers in a Christian and God centered environment is something I’ll miss when I graduate.

Class of 2021 - our 1st Graduating CLass