The staff has been hard at work over the summer upgrading the facilities by painting hallways, upgrading flooring in the cafeteria and preschool bathrooms, building plexiglass shields for classrooms, and installing speakers and a new sound system throughout the building that will help with the emergency alarm system. The building never sleeps. We are so thankful for the men and … Read More
A year in review
2020 yearbook news
Final page submissions for the 2020 yearbook were due on March 16. The entire school closed down on March 13. “We were so fortunate to have had that last yearbook marathon the week before to take any final missing pictures,” said Mrs. Dyck, advisor. “If we had closed one week earlier, we would have missed capturing so many events. I … Read More
School is out for summer!
The days leading up to summer break
– by Ava, senior – May 21 was the last day of online classes for FBTA. Building up to summer break, the last week of school was filled with final projects, exams, and assignments. Students finally completed their first-ever distance learning experience! Most teachers gave out tests that were based on the student’s abilities to comprehend the material taught. For … Read More
Can you guys hear me?
Teachers’ takes on virtual teaching
– by Kiersten G, junior – Contrary to the wishes of many students, classes are continuing regardless of the fact that school is not in session due to the COVID-19 crisis. This has been a very big adjustment for the students, but it has been just as new for all the teachers and staff. In mid-March, the teachers had a … Read More
More free time inside
– by Ella S, sophomore – Now that the state of Virginia has been commanded to stay home, everybody must find a way to entertain themselves inside with limited outside exposure. Although it’s difficult to find new things to keep busy with, the students of FBTA have been doing just that. Some students have been taking advantage of the nice … Read More
How students are holding up
Online learning and new home activities
– by Liza F, senior – With online learning, the scheduling pressures are different than your traditional school day. Students don’t need to worry about making it to class by a bell or a specific time. Schedules are more flexible, giving students the chance to work at their own pace. While some students have noticed more flexible time with online learning, … Read More
Cutting the year short
Students open up about online classes
– by Andrea B, senior – When the governor announced that all schools in the state of Virginia would close for the rest of the year, that not only meant ending the 2020 school year earlier than usual, but also meant canceling many extracurriculars, like girls’ soccer, spring concerts, and the annual ODACS Fine Arts competition. “It’s sad that we … Read More
NODACS?!
Thoughts about ODACS cancellation
– by Andrew C, junior – Just days before the school was closed for the rest of the year, Mr. Bradford called the junior and senior high students into the chapel room to announce the cancellation of 2020 ODACS, causing mixed feelings for everyone in the room. Although the elementary grades were able to compete in ODACS, this was the … Read More
A coronacation?
Tips on understanding the virus and staying safe
– by Amy, senior – Quarantining has caught students and workers by surprise. On March 23, Virginia State Governor Ralph Northman announced all schools in the state would be shut down for the rest of the school year, provoking chaos among adults and some celebrations among the students; however, the celebrations were short-lived as many realized the serious spreading of … Read More
Busy, busy, busy!
Students prepare for the busy ODACS season
– by Haston H, senior – After Christmas break, FBTA students from 4th to 12th grade are hurled into one of the busiest times of the year. From speech classes to debate run-offs, there is always a bizz-buzz about the school. Students eagerly prepare for the chance to represent their school during ODACS competition using their God-given talent. “While this … Read More