Jenna Kaspari graduated from Front Range Christian School in 2010. She attended FRCS from kindergarten through her senior year and, at the time of this writing, was enrolled at Colorado State University. Following is her story in her own words from her first year of college.
Light in the Midst of Darkness
I attended Front Range Christian School for all thirteen years. I had never experienced a public education until I headed off for college. I am currently a freshman at Colorado State University, where the atmosphere is much different than that of my small, private school. Although different in drastic ways such as size, peers and professors, I have not lost the valuable teachings of my high school and younger years. I am constantly reminded of what a blessing it was to grow up in a Christian home with parents who were willing to work hard so that I could attend a Christian school.
My first semester of college was a struggle, with many tribulations. Through all that I had to endure I always was reminded of my life verse Proverbs 3:5-6, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.” In my third grade class we had to choose a verse that made an impact on us, and this is the one I chose. I continue to hold dearly to it to get me through good times and bad.
Everyone hears how different college is, and how much harder the work load is. Yes, the first semester was a lot of work, but I was prepared because of my FRCS education. While those in my dorm were failing tests because all they did was party or they never learned study skills, I knew how to allocate my time. My high school AP lit class definitely prepared me for the college composition class. While others struggled academically and socially I was able to branch out with not only my academics but also pursue Christian based friendships and mentorship of those in need around me.
Going to Front Range Christian did not simply prepare me for the difficult academic standings of college, but for life. A maturity difference is obvious compared to the kids coming out of the public schools. With the small atmosphere of FRCS, many teachers were not simply those who graded your papers, but friends that you could go to in times of need. They were strong Christian role models. You got to know upperclassmen too through sports, discipleship groups, and practicum. Those relationships are invaluable. I was also able to experience the trip of a lifetime by going to Israel, this desire to grow closer to Christ on such a different level as well as the connections to do so may have never come about without going to FRCS.
I often wish I would have continued with Christian education now that I am in college. Yet, I know that God put me at this large public university so that I can share my faith and be a light in midst of the darkness. If I had gone to a public elementary or high school with my only connection to God being Sunday services I honestly believe I would have gone to CSU and got caught up in the college life; my faith would have soon dissipated. I did not grow greatly in my relationship with Christ through one hour of listening to a pastor, but through daily interaction at FRCS: through the bible classes, Christian role models, and friends that surrounded me. All of this caused me to search for those types of people in college, and now I have new connections of Christian peers through bible studies, and Campus Crusade for Christ.
My faith is deepening as I grow through the tribulations, and I am out in a society of college students where I am not the norm. But I intrigue people, and through living in the dorms I am growing closer to many unbelievers and even those who may have had a past relationship with Christ but find themselves drifting from God. I am posing questions in their minds that something needs to change. Through my relationship with Christ and living by example, others may also choose to follow Him. I simply plant His seed and let God take control.
Front Range Christian School made me ready for the challenge, the academic challenge as well as the challenge of being a Christian leader. Mathew 5:14-16, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven”.
From her parents
Here are thoughts from Jenna’s mother: “Front Range Christian School prepared our daughter extremely well for the academic requirements of college. More importantly, FRCS gave Jenna the spiritual foundation to help her establish her Christian faith as her own which enabled her to go into a secular college and influence others for Christ. What more can Christian parents ask for?”
