What is LCS?
Each year, One School takes to the stage at LCS, formally known as the League of Christian Schools Festival. With categories ranging from the science fair and Math Olympics to musical theatre and graphic design, scholars use these varied outlets to display their talents. If a competitor receives a certain score, they are invited to compete at the next level: Fine Arts. “This year, I performed a self-written drama solo and placed first with an invitation to Fine Arts. It’s a very liberating opportunity to express myself, and I’m excited to participate again next year,” said Alexus Williams, 11th grade.
Hosted at Southeastern University in Lakeland, schools from all corners of Florida make their way to the festival right before spring break. The competitions are available for students aged third through 12th grade. “I’ve been competing in LCS since before I attended One School, so this being my last year is a bit surreal. I started my LCS journey by competing in the spelling bee competition when I was in elementary school, later transitioning into Bible recitation in my late elementary through middle school years. Then, throughout high school, I started to compete in the rap solo category. God blessed me with the ability to perform and memorize well, so I’m thankful for LCS providing an outlet for those gifts. Being the opening performance for the award ceremony was a surprise, but a welcome one,” said Simeon Gordon, 12th grade.
To partake in LCS’s academic contests, teachers and staff members nominate scholars for categories in which they would excel. “For my final LCS appearance, I competed in the spelling bee, Math Olympics, spoken word, short story, and mini saga, all of which were sent by my teachers and encouragers. I enjoy the academic aspects of the competition, as they are better suited to my aptitudes and preferences. This year, I ended up placing gold in all five of my categories, resulting in a satisfying conclusion to my LCS experience,” said Layla Hubler, 12th grade.
Coordinated each year by Brenda Greaver, staff, the festival allows scholars to expand their performance horizons and develop imperative skills that they will use for the rest of their lives. “The LCS Festival is an opportunity for scholars to develop their gifts and hear from others about how they can improve. It shows both the academically talented and the performance talented that there is a place for all abilities. It helps build grit and confidence, both of which will continue to guide them far beyond their school years,” said Greaver.
