Called to Be Kingdom Leaders at TCA

The new school year at Trinity Christian Academy began with more than sharpened pencils and fresh notebooks — it began with a calling.

This year’s theme, “Called to be Kingdom Leaders,” is guiding students, teachers, and coaches to view their learning, leadership, and daily choices as part of God’s greater story.

Secondary Principal Jesse Whiteaker, who selected the theme, said it was born out of watching the world students are stepping into and recognizing the urgent need for leaders who are grounded in faith.

“Our students are growing up in a culture that is desperate for truth, courage, and compassion,” Whiteaker said. “We want to equip them to lead with conviction and to know that their influence matters.”

At the helm of TCA is President and Head of School Craig Smith, now entering his second year of leadership. Smith has already helped guide the academy through a season of renewed vision and growth, and he says the theme resonates deeply with his hopes for the school.

“My desire is for TCA to love big, listen empathetically and inspire excellence — all while consistently pointing students to Christ,” Smith said. “If our students leave here as kingdom-minded leaders, grounded in faith and ready to serve, then we have fulfilled our mission.”

Faculty are carrying that vision into their classrooms. Government teacher Candice Gables is challenging her 12th grade students to lead with purpose, intention, and excellence — reminding them that true leadership is more than titles or positions. “When we believe that all authority comes from God, we can discern and uphold the truth while living as active, godly leaders in our community,” Gables said.

She encourages her students to see themselves as part of God’s story of redemption.

“We’re not called to be passive participants,” she added. “We’re called to step up, take an active role, and live with purpose.”

On the athletic field, new head football coach Scott Campbell has set his focus on shaping athletes who lead with integrity.

“Each of our coaches have a shared vision: for our players to grow as young men of faith and integrity,” Campbell said. “Wins matter, but the way we carry ourselves and how we represent Jesus matters most.”

The Eagles are led by a nucleus of six seniors — Rhyder Dawson, Patrick Gullatt, Caleb Hart, Kadin James, Dane Southworth, and Christian Valdez — who have contributed greatly to the TCA football program. Together, they will serve as the Eagles’ captains, charged with leading on and off the field this season.

The excitement is already building toward homecoming on Sept. 26, when the school community will gather to celebrate not only athletics, but the values that anchor TCA.

As the year unfolds, “Called to be Kingdom Leaders” will continue to shape life at TCA — reminding students that education is not just about gaining knowledge, but about learning to lead with courage, compassion, and conviction.