Lion Tales 9/4/2025

"LION TALES" NEWS FROM CLA
Thursday, September 4, 2025
"Surely goodness and mercy will follow me ALL the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." -Psalm 23:6

The 2025-2026 weekly Lion Tales newsletter will generally arrive in your inbox each Thursday. Read on to see what ALL is going on as the school year gets going.

**Upcoming Dates to Know** 

Monday, Sept 15 Monthly Board of Directors’ meeting 4:15 pm HS Community Rm

Thursday, Sept 18 PTF (Parent Teacher Fellowship) meeting  2:00 pm in Mrs Long’s Room

Monday, Sept. 22 No School - Staff in-service day

Thursday, Sept. 25 PK- Bring your Grandparents and Parents to School Day

Friday, Sept. 26 K-12 Grandparent’s Day Open House 2:00-3:00 pm

PK Bring your Family to School Day

This will be a day where all PK students can bring their grandparents and parents to school for the morning to see what a day in the life is for them here at CLA.  The doors will open at 8:00 and dismissal will be at 11:15 as usual. Families will get to go through the schedule with their child to see all the fun things they do at PK.

K-12 Grandparents Day is Friday, September 26 from 2:00-3:00pm

This is a time where grandparents and honorary grandparents can come get a glimpse at what is going on at CLA.  

• K-4 classes will have an activity that grandparents can come in and complete with their grandchild. 

• MS will be all in the gym doing activities.  Grandparents are welcome to join in or just observe.

• HS will have their regularly scheduled classes during this time, and you are welcome to walk by and observe if you wish!  Please be aware that due to increased student numbers, there will not be extra seating available in classrooms. 

Volunteer opportunity - for students in MS/HS and their families! 

Mr. Horning will be leading TWO trips to the Morton Pumpkin Festival - Friday, September 12 and Saturday, September 13. Both trips will involve volunteering at the dishwashing area. Details came yesterday in an individual email… but contact Mr. Horning [email protected] to get involved! There is a limit of 10 people per day… so get your name on the list now!

From PTF (Parent Teacher Fellowship).... Change War is happening!

Start looking for loose change on the bottom of mom’s purse, in the car cupholders, under the couch, on the sidewalk, maybe help do a load of laundry and you may find some in the washer! Compete against the other classes and win fabulous prizes each week! A Pizza Party is on the line for the class that collects the most change!

** Penny week - keep bringing pennies until it ends tomorrow - Friday, September 5

** Nickel week - Monday, September 8 through Friday, September 12 

Change collected will go towards Field Trip expenses such as shirts and admission and other PTF projects.

CLA Gear Store Open Til September 15th!

CLA will have some gear available for sale until September 15th- get your hoodies, shirts, beanies now!  To order, please visit https://cla2025.itemorder.com/.  Orders are due by September 15th and are estimated to be filled by the end of September. Questions?  Please contact Mrs. Stribling at [email protected].

LIFE DAYS 2025 will be here before you know it. There is MUCH to do before the October 17-18 event! Would you like to be involved in the PLANNING and solicitation of items over the next several months? We would love to have your help. Please contact Mr. Horning at [email protected] or 309-267-8781 and help plan to see the event grow.

For additional information and documents, such as menus, calendars, and more, click the link to the CLA website - current students.

**Reminders from the Principal Team**

The last chance to order pictures is Sunday, September 7th. 

All students must have appropriate footwear for PE classes(every M/W/F)- athletic shoes with non-marking soles!  No crocs, boots, flip flops, sandals, etc. Please make sure to send appropriate footwear with your student. PE shoes can be left at school in their classrooms or locker, especially students that do not prefer to wear tennis shoes most days.

**From the Desk of the Dean**
A chapel focus this week was the Biblical story of Joshua. Many people associate Joshua with the story of the walls of Jericho falling down… but we discussed how Joshua continued to fully commit to following and serving God, no matter what. “As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” This is a great reminder for us each day to commit the day to the Lord. He is ALL in for us… we should be ALL in for Him, and point others toward Him as well!
Blessed to be a part of this community!                        
Mr. Horning

CLA LIONS Extracurricular Corner

Upcoming Games/Activities

Friday, Sept 5 JH/JV/V Volleyball HOME games with Westfair 5:00

Saturday, Sept 6 Lions Football Club game at Lincoln Open Arms 2:00

Monday, Sept 8 JH/HS Volleyball with Faith Baptist at Cornerstone (Groveland) 5:00

Tuesday, Sept 9 JH Volleyball at Bethel Lutheran (Morton) 5:30

JH Baseball HOME game with Delavan (8th Grade Night) 6:00

Lions Football Club game at Lincoln Open arms 4:30

Thursday, Sept 11 JH/HS Volleyball at ICCS (Washington) 5:00

Signups for High School Chess Club are live!  

To sign up, please go here: https://forms.gle/e5MhuBmDwHscQneNA.  Once we know who all is interested, then we can get some matches scheduled!

Lion Tales 8/28/25

**Upcoming Dates to Know** 

Monday, Sept. 1 No School - Labor Day Holiday

Wednesday, Sept. 3 SCHOOL PICTURE DAY! SEE details below!

Monday, Sept 15 Monthly Board of Directors’ meeting 4:15 pm HS Community Rm

Monday, Sept. 22 No School - Staff in-service day

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 is school picture day.

An email with an online order form was sent last week. Again thankful to have Amy Williams (LifePrint) take our school pictures. Homeschool students are also welcome to come get a school picture! If you are a homeschool family and you would like to come in, please email Mrs. Bowman ([email protected]). 
To order pictures, please use the following link: order form
Here is a video walkthrough on how to use the online picture order form.

Volunteer opportunity - for students in MS/HS and their families! 

Mr. Horning will be leading TWO trips to the Morton Pumpkin Festival - Friday, September 12 and Saturday, September 13. Both trips will involve volunteering at the dishwashing area. Details came yesterday in an individual email… but contact Mr. Horning [email protected] to get involved! There is a limit of 10 people per day… so get your name on the list now!

From PTF (Parent Teacher Fellowship).... Change War is coming!

Start looking for loose change on the bottom of mom’s purse, in the car cupholders, under the couch, on the sidewalk, maybe help do a load of laundry and you may find some in the washer! Compete against the other classes and win fabulous prizes each week ! A Pizza Party is on the line for the class that collects the most change!

Penny week starts on Tuesday, September 2nd!

Change collected will go towards Field Trip expenses such as shirts and admission and other PTF projects.

CLA Gear Store Open Til September 15th!

CLA will have some gear available for sale until September 15th- get your hoodies, shirts, beanies now!  To order, please visit https://cla2025.itemorder.com/.  Orders are due by September 15th and are estimated to be filled by the end of September. Questions?  Please contact Mrs. Stribling at [email protected].

LIFE DAYS 2025 will be here before you know it.

There is MUCH to do before the October 17-18 event! Would you like to be involved in the PLANNING and solicitation of items over the next several months? We would love to have your help. Please contact Mr. Horning at [email protected] or 309-267-8781 and help plan to see the event grow.

For additional information and documents, such as menus, calendars, and more, click the link to the CLA website - current students.

**Reminders from the Principal Team**

All students must have appropriate footwear for PE classes(every M/W/F)- athletic shoes with non-marking soles!  No crocs, boots, flip flops, sandals, etc. Please make sure to send appropriate footwear with your student. PE shoes can be left at school in their classrooms or locker, especially students that do not prefer to wear tennis shoes most days.

**From the Desk of the Dean**

What is important to you? What takes ALL of your attention? In Exodus 20 we are reminded that we should have “no other gods” in place of God our Heavenly Father. Just something to think about as you go through your day. Turn your heart, eyes, head, life, and time… fully to God!
Blessed to be a part of this community!                        
Mr. Horning

CLA LIONS Extracurricular Corner

Upcoming Games/Activities

Thursday, Aug 28 MS Baseball HOME game with South Pekin 4:30

HS Volleyball JV/V HOME game with FBCA Rosamond 5:00

Monday, Sept 1 MS Baseball game at Lincoln Jr. High with Carroll Catholic 4:30

Tuesday, Sept 2 JH Cross Country at Tremont 4:00

HS Volleyball JV/V games at Illini Central (Mason City) 6:00

Thurs, Sept 4 Rec volleyball HOME with South Side 5:00

JH Cross Country at Illini Central

Friday, Sept 5 JH/JV/V Volleyball HOME games with Westfair 5:00

Signups for High School Chess Club are live!  

To sign up, please go here: https://forms.gle/e5MhuBmDwHscQneNA.  Once we know who all is interested, then we can get some matches scheduled!

eSports -

  Signups for the Fall eSports will be closing THIS WEEK.  If you are interested in joining eSports, please fill out the google form (https://forms.gle/qUzdj7G7rDk4hsKVA) by Monday, September 1st.  Preseason starts the week of September 8th!

Lion Tales 8/21/25

**Upcoming Dates to Know** 

Monday, Sept. 1 No School - Labor Day Holiday

Wednesday, Sept. 3 SCHOOL PICTURE DAY! SEE details below!

Monday, Sept. 22 No School - Staff in-service day

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 is school picture day

You will see a specific email coming home with an online order form (no paper form this year). Again thankful to have Amy Williams (LifePrint) take our school pictures. Homeschool students are also welcome to come get a school picture! Times/details will be in the email

CLA Gear Store Open Til September 15th!

CLA will have some gear available for sale until September 15th- get your hoodies, shirts, beanies now!  To order, please visit https://cla2025.itemorder.com/.  Orders are due by September 15th and are estimated to be filled by the end of September. Questions?  Please contact Mrs. Stribling at [email protected].

LIFE DAYS 2025 will be here before you know it

There is MUCH to do before the October 17-18 event! Would you like to be involved in the PLANNING and solicitation of items over the next several months? We would love to have your help. Please contact Mr. Horning at [email protected] or 309-267-8781 and help plan to see the event grow.

Need a lunch menu or copy of the school calendar?

For additional information and documents, such as menus, calendars, and more, click the link to the CLA website - current students.

**Reminders from the Principal Team**

Pick-up line reminders:

• Please stay in your vehicle if you are in the pickup line.

• If you would like to walk up to pick up your student there is parking on the street or in the circle drive. 

• If you are first in line, please pull all the way up to the front door so we can load as many vehicles as possible safely.

Office Forms: Please be sure to return any necessary documents to the office.  If your student is still missing something, we will be sending home a brightly colored ½ sheet next week to remind you.

**From the Desk of the Dean**

The scripture (and song) in chapel this week was again from Joshua 1:9. We are reminded that God commands us to be strong and courageous, not because of our own strength, but because we know that the Lord our God is WITH us! Monday’s chapel gave us a reminder that God is with us ALL THE TIME… and for ALL OF US! I am especially glad that we can look to God to lead our big family here at CLA.
Blessed to be a part of this community!                        
Mr. Horning

CLA LIONS Extracurricular Corner

Upcoming Games/Activities

Fri-Sat, Aug 22-23 Varsity Volleyball at Arthur Christian School Tournament

Monday, Aug 25 Volleyball Rec league games at CLA gym 4:30

MS Baseball HOME game with Morton Union 4:30

Thursday, Aug 28 MS Baseball HOME game with South Pekin 4:30

HS Volleyball JV/V HOME game with FBCA Rosamond 5:00

CLA E-Sports Interest Survey

Last year, CLA started their eSports program and had tons of fun playing Mario Kart, Smash Bros, and Splatoon 3.  If you are interested in participating in CLA's after school eSports program, please fill out the following interest survey: https://forms.gle/qUzdj7G7rDk4hsKVA.   Completing the survey DOES NOT commit you to participating, but does help Mrs. Stribling plan for the season. If you have questions, please contact her directly at [email protected].

Golf, Anyone?

Any 7th-12th grader interested in playing GOLF, please contact Mr. Horning - [email protected]. There are opportunities this fall. Wednesday = “wedge day” and we practice behind the school… check it out!

Lion Tales- 8/14/25

"LION TALES" -NEWS FROM CLA

Thursday, August 14, 2025
"Surely goodness and mercy will follow me ALL the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever." -Psalm 23:6

The 2025-2026 weekly Lion Tales newsletter will generally arrive in your inbox each Thursday. Read on to see what ALL is going on as the school year gets going.

**Upcoming Dates to Know** 

Tuesday, Aug. 19 First day of school for PreK students!

Monday, Sept. 1 No School - Labor Day Holiday

Monday, Sept. 22 No School - Staff in-service day

For additional information and documents,  click the link to the CLA website - current students.

**Reminders from the Principal Team**
Please be sure to return any necessary documents to the office- medication forms, income forms, physicals (dated after 8/1/24), dental or vision screenings, etc. All new students need to have a copy of their birth certificate on file as well. We appreciate your timely attention to returning them! 

**From the Desk of the Dean**
This first week of school has already been a blast. From the picnic on Monday, to seeing all the smiling faces in chapel Tuesday morning, having students and families back in the buildings (and playground) is great! I’m reminded that we are all a part of this large family/community, ALL striving to know Jesus better. The scripture (and song) in chapel this week was from Joshua 1:9. We are reminded that God commands us to be strong and courageous, not because of our own strength, but because we know that the Lord our God is WITH us! I am especially glad that we can look to God to lead our big family here at CLA.
Blessed to be a part of this community!                        
Mr. Horning

CLA LIONS Extracurricular Corner

Upcoming Games/Activities

Monday, Aug 18 Running Club starts - after school 3:30-4:45 Mondays and Wednesdays

Tuesday, Aug 19 MS Baseball at Hartsburg-Emden 4:30

Fri-Sat, Aug 22-23 Varsity Volleyball at Arthur Christian School Tournament

Monday, Aug 25 Volleyball Rec league games at CLA gym 4:30

MS Baseball HOME game with Morton Union 4:30

CLA E-Sports Interest Survey

Last year, CLA started their eSports program and had tons of fun playing Mario Kart, Smash Bros, and Splatoon 3.  If you are interested in participating in CLA's after school eSports program, please fill out the following interest survey: https://forms.gle/qUzdj7G7rDk4hsKVA.   Completing the survey DOES NOT commit you to participating, but does help Mrs. Stribling plan for the season. If you have questions, please contact her directly at [email protected].

Golf, Anyone?

Any 7th-12th grader interested in playing GOLF, please contact Mr. Horning - [email protected]. There may be some opportunities this fall.

Lion Tales- End of the 24-25 school year edition!

Upcoming Dates on the School Calendar

Thursday, May 15 8th Grade Promotion 3:45 pm (CLA Gymnasium)

12th Grade Graduation 6:30 pm (Living Hope Community Church)

Friday, May 16 Last day of school - full day - field day

Tuesday, May 27 Monthly CLA Board of Directors Meeting - tentatively 4:15 pm

Friday, June 6 CLA Annual Golf Outing

Tuesday, August 12 FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL - 2025-2026 school year!

Looking ahead… NEXT SCHOOL YEAR

As we are in the final week of this school year, we want to make sure that a few items are on your calendar… The beginning of next school year will be slightly different. We have a school calendar that is approved but will be possibly making some adjustments to this calendar at the May board meeting, so look for that announcement in a few weeks. 

Here are some dates that are SET  and we want to make sure you have them for your planning! 

FAMILY PICNIC/POTLUCK and DEDICATION NIGHT - Monday, August 11

FIRST DAY of SCHOOL - Tuesday, August 12 

LIFE DAYS WEEKEND - Friday-Saturday October 17-18

Invite someone to visit Christian Life Academy…

While we do not have any more scheduled open house events, you are always encouraged to share your CLA experience with others and to invite them to visit. Mr. Horning and other staff are always glad to host friends or family. Share the word!

2025-2026 Registration and Enrollment Still OPEN! 

The early deadline has come and gone, but registration remains open for the 2025-2026 school year! Families that are participating in extracurricular activities only, you are also encouraged to enroll with your intentions for next year. Any questions, please contact Mr. Horning ([email protected]).

FIELD DAY INFO from Parent Teacher Fellowship!

Field Day is May 16 and we need your help! It would be great to have a few more helpers to wrangle children and we also need a person or two to help with the lunch! 

Contact Doug @ [email protected] or 309-208-1851

HISTORICAL WAX MUSEUM TODAY at CLA!

CLA 7th and 8th graders portrayed twenty different historical figures, from centuries ago to modern times. From writers William Shakespeare (Evan Waters) to Rick Riordan (Reese Stribling), and every other type of character imaginable, the students portrayed their historical figure’s accomplishments and told their story. Pictured to the right is the most “focused” wax figure of the day, Katherine of Aragon (portrayed by Ella Rakstad). Four students were voted as winners for their portrayal: Spy Peter “Garbo” Garcia (Caleb Travis), Queen Victoria (Susie Birkey), Gymnast Suni Lee (Tory Weeks) and Basketballer “Pistol” Pete Maravich (Kasen Espenschied). Great job, all students, and thank you, Mr. Sisson!

 Extra Curriculars Corner

Sat, May 10 HS Baseball at Arthur Christian 1:30 (2 games)

Monday, May 12 HS Baseball HOME games with Roanoke Benson 4:30

Tuesday, May 13 HS BAseball at Illini Central 4:30

PLEASE KEEP YOUR EYES ON YOUR EMAIL INBOX FOR INFORMATION REGARDING SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR SOME OF OUR UPCOMING 2025-2026 SPORTS… AS WELL AS INFORMATION ABOUT OVERALL ATHLETIC AND EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES!

From the Principal's Desk

(please note - the same message as last week! Mr. Horning has been so busy with prospective families that he didn’t have time to write a new message and it’s already Friday!)

Now is the time - tell others about your CLA experience! We are in the home stretch of the school year, which means our focus often turns toward the summer. But I would encourage you, turn your focus for a moment toward sharing what your family has experienced at CLA. We have had significant numbers of new families interested in joining our school community, but one of the keys is usually their connection with someone who is already here. Families hear about the experience of a friend or family member, and they ask how to get involved. Please encourage them that “the time is now!” It is very important that those interested don’t wait until the middle (or end) of the summer… it may be too late! We are growing. The time is now to get involved.

“I have no greater joy than to know that my children are walking in the truth.” 3 John 4

   Blessings,

        Mr. Horning

Lion Tales 5/1/25

Upcoming Dates on the School Calendar

Thursday, May 1 CLA hosts National Day of Prayer on campus 11:45 am - noon. Join!

Monday, May 5 No School - Teacher in-service

May 5-9 Teacher Appreciation Week!

Thursday, May 15 8th Grade Promotion 3:45 pm (CLA Gymnasium)

12th Grade Graduation 6:30 pm (Living Hope Community Church)

Friday, May 16 Last day of school - full day - field day

Invite someone to visit Christian Life Academy…

While we do not have any more scheduled open house events, you are always encouraged to share your CLA experience with others and to invite them to visit. Mr. Horning and other staff are always glad to host friends or family. Share the word!

2025-2026 Registration and Enrollment Still OPEN! 

The early deadline has come and gone, but registration remains open for the 2025-2026 school year! Families that are participating in extracurricular activities only, you are also encouraged to enroll with your intentions for next year. Any questions, please contact Mr. Horning ([email protected]).

Some UPDATES and INFO from Parent Teacher Fellowship!

Next Week is Teacher Appreciation! There are spots left on the sign up to help out. Check out the link! https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4CADAE22A7FEC34-56466577-teacher

Field Day is May 16 and we need your help! It would be great to have a few more helpers to wrangle children and we also need a person or two to help with the lunch! 

Contact Doug @ [email protected] or 309-208-1851

Faith & Sports…Doing Sports God’s Way…Podcast episode!

Recently, I (Mr. Horning) completed a lengthy paper about the integration of faith and discipleship in athletics, with some academic and personal/local research. If you have any interest in reading this paper, let me know! I’d be glad to share it with you! I also was blessed to be a guest on a podcast, which WENT LIVE Last Week, Links are below!

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3benlwDskFfU88uceOj8qk?si=7cfbDotxT42862Ab7CoY3w on SPOTIFY

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/91-improving-the-discipleship-of-student-athletes/id1761367959?i=1000704715279 on APPLE PODCASTS 

https://youtu.be/v6ZbaXTajlQ?si=VjlsAPU-U0oZt4Qn  on Youtube (SHORTS on Youtube/Instagram /Facebook). 

 Extra Curriculars Corner

Thursday, May 1 MS Track at Tremont 4:30

Spring athletics picture day (details emailed to team)

Fri/Sat, May 2-3 HS Baseball at MCSC Baseball Tournament (Champaign)

Monday, May 5 MS Track at Tremont 4:30

Tuesday, May 6 HS Track at Midwest Central 4:00

Thursday, May 8 HS Baseball at Cornerstone Christian 4:30

Sat, May 10 HS Baseball at Arthur Christian 1:30 (2 games)

Monday, May 12 HS Baseball HOME games with Roanoke Benson 4:30

Tuesday, May 13 HS BAseball at Illini Central 4:30

From the Principal's Desk

Now is the time - tell others about your CLA experience! We are in the home stretch of the school year, which means our focus often turns toward the summer. But I would encourage you, turn your focus for a moment toward sharing what your family has experienced at CLA. We have had significant numbers of new families interested in joining our school community, but one of the keys is usually their connection with someone who is already here. Families hear about the experience of a friend or family member, and they ask how to get involved. Please encourage them that “the time is now!” It is very important that those interested don’t wait until the middle (or end) of the summer… it may be too late! We are growing. The time is now to get involved.

“I have no greater joy than to know that my children are walking in the truth.” 3 John 4

   Blessings,

        Mr. Horning

Lion Tales 4/24/25

Upcoming Dates on the School Calendar

Thursday, May 1 CLA hosts National Day of Prayer on campus 11:45 am - noon. Join!

Monday, May 5 No School - Teacher in-service

May 5-9 Teacher Appreciation Week!

Thursday, May 15 8th Grade Promotion 3:45 pm 

12th Grade Graduation 6:30 pm 

Friday, May 16 Last day of school - full day - field day

Invite someone to visit Christian Life Academy…

While we do not have any more scheduled open house events, you are always encouraged to share your CLA experience with others and to invite them to visit. Mr. Horning and other staff are always glad to host friends or family. Share the word!

2025-2026 Registration and Enrollment Still OPEN! 

The early deadline has come and gone, but registration remains open for the 2025-2026 school year! Families that are participating in extracurricular activities only, you are also encouraged to enroll with your intentions for next year. Any questions, please contact Mr. Horning ([email protected]).

Some UPDATES and INFO from Parent Teacher Fellowship!

SIGN UP! Teacher Appreciation Week is May 5th through May 9th! We are planning a fun week for our teachers and need your help! We've made a list of jobs that we will need help with and items we would love for people to bring in. Check out the sign up sheet! 

https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0D4CADAE22A7FEC34-56466577-teacher

FIELD DAY! May 16th is quickly approaching! Which means Field Day will be happening! Doug Rumbold is coordinating the day for us again and we will need about 12-15 adult volunteers to come and help. Please jump in and help to make this a super fun day to finish the school year! You can contact Doug directly @ 309-208-1851 or email him: [email protected] 

     Join Christian Life Academy

 and the Hopedale Community 

      on National Day of Prayer

Thursday, May 1 from 11:45-noon

CLA Playground

Faith & Sports…Doing Sports God’s Way…Podcast episode!

Recently, I (Mr. Horning) completed a lengthy paper about the integration of faith and discipleship in athletics, with some academic and personal/local research. If you have any interest in reading this paper, let me know! I’d be glad to share it with you! I also was blessed to be a guest on a podcast, which WENT LIVE TODAY, Links are below!

https://open.spotify.com/episode/3benlwDskFfU88uceOj8qk?si=7cfbDotxT42862Ab7CoY3w on SPOTIFY

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/91-improving-the-discipleship-of-student-athletes/id1761367959?i=1000704715279 on APPLE PODCASTS 

https://youtu.be/v6ZbaXTajlQ?si=VjlsAPU-U0oZt4Qn  on Youtube (SHORTS on Youtube/Instagram /Facebook). 

  Extra Curriculars Corner

Friday, April 25 esports MS vs HS tournament/party after school

Saturday, April 26 HS Baseball at Delavan (vs. Heyworth 12:00 and vs. Delavan 2:00)

Tuesday, April 29 HS Track at Mackinaw

Wednesday, April 30 MS (5th/6th only) Track at Olympia

Thursday, May 1 MS Track at Tremont

Spring athletics picture day (details emailed to team)

Fri/Sat, May 2-3 HS Baseball at MCSC Baseball Tournament (Champaign)

From the Principal's Desk

What a blessing! Worship of the Lord together is so special! That’s what I took home with me for Easter break because of the great time of worship last Thursday. Thank you CLA community for your intentionality and love of the Lord. I loved worshiping together!

“I have no greater joy than to know that my children are walking in the truth.” 3 John 4

   Blessings,

        Mr. Horning

Lion Tales 4/16/25

Upcoming Dates on the School Calendar

Thursday, April 17 Easter Worship Service - 7 pm at CLA gymnasium

All -school field trip to see “King of Kings” at Morton Cinema

Friday, April 18 No School - Good Friday

Saturday April 19 Board of Directors Meeting, 8 am

Monday, April 21 No School - Easter Monday

Monday, May 5 No School - Teacher in-service

May 5-9 Teacher Appreciation Week!

Thursday, May 15 8th Grade Promotion 3:45 pm 

12th Grade Graduation 6:30 pm

Friday, May 16 Last day of school - full day - field day

Invite someone to visit Christian Life Academy…

While we do not have any more scheduled open house events, you are always encouraged to share your CLA experience with others and to invite them to visit. Mr. Horning and other staff are always glad to host friends or family. Share the word!

2025-2026 Registration and Enrollment Still OPEN! 

The early deadline has come and gone, but registration remains open for the 2025-2026 school year! Families that are participating in extracurricular activities only, you are also encouraged to enroll with your intentions for next year. Any questions, please contact Mr. Horning ([email protected]).

Some UPDATES and INFO from Parent Teacher Fellowship!

Attention! Teacher Appreciation is May 5-9th! Keep an eye out next week for sign ups to help! 

FIELD DAY !!! May 16th is quickly approaching! Which means Field Day will be happening! Doug Rumbold is coordinating the day for us again and we will need about 12-15 adult volunteers to come and help. Please jump in and help to make this a super fun day to finish the school year! You can contact Doug directly @ 309-208-1851 or email him: [email protected] 

Faith & Sports…Doing Sports God’s Way…Read and Listen about it!

Recently, I (Mr. Horning) completed a lengthy paper about the integration of faith and discipleship in athletics, with some academic and personal/local research. It has a focus on what we are trying to do (by God’s guidance) at CLA as well as some ways we’d like to continue integration into PE classes. If you have any interest in reading this paper, let me know! I’d be glad to share it with you! I also was blessed to be a guest on a Christian Principals Podcast and will share the link once the podcast is published.

 Extra Curriculars Corner

Thursday, April 17 Both MS Smash Teams compete in the afternoon

Saturday, April 19 Middle School Track at Bethel Invitational (Morton High School)

Tuesday, April 22 HS Baseball HOME game with Peoria Christian 4:30

Thursday, April 24 HS Track and Field meet at Midwest Central 4:00

Saturday, April 26 HS Baseball at Delavan (vs. Heyworth 12:00 and vs. Delavan 2:00)

Friday, April 25 esports MS vs HS tournament/party after school. 

**Let Mrs. Stribling know if you are NOT attending this **

From the Principal's Desk

How exciting to worship together! I’m sending this Lion Tales a Day early, because tomorrow will be a super busy day… We’ll go as a whole school to see “King of Kings,” and then in the evening we’ll worship together. I’d encourage you to come tomorrow night, bring family, and be ready for a special time together. Often we think of a “school program” as a chance to show off what the kids are doing - singing and music. We’ll definitely see that. But I also, even more, look forward to this time of corporate worship together. We get to show our love for Jesus together. To remember and learn a bit more about what it means to worship the King of Kings, and what His sacrifice means personally to each one of us. It is a great honor to be a part of this community, and to share in worship of the Lord together is so special!

See you all tomorrow night! We get to “be the church” together in worship. Can’t wait!

“I have no greater joy than to know that my children are walking in the truth.” 3 John 4

   Blessings,

        Mr. Horning

Lion Tales 4/10/25

Upcoming Dates on the School Calendar

Thursday, April 10  Early registration (save $50) ends today!

Thursday, April 17 Easter Worship Service - 7 pm at CLA gymnasium

All -school field trip to see “King of Kings” at Morton Cinema

Friday, April 18 No School - Good Friday

Saturday April 19 Board of Directors Meeting, 8 am

Monday, April 21 No School - Easter Monday

Monday, May 5 No School - Teacher in-service

Thursday, May 15 8th Grade Promotion and 12th Grade Graduation

Friday, May 16 Last day of school - full day - field day

Invite someone to visit Christian Life Academy…

While we do not have any more scheduled open house events, you are always encouraged to share your CLA experience with others and to invite them to visit. Mr. Horning and other staff are always glad to host friends or family. Share the word!

2025-2026 Registration and Enrollment information! 

Enrollment for the new school year is open! We have a new process where our full-time academic families can enroll and re-enroll online through the Gradelink “EnrollMe” feature on our SIS. We encourage early enrollment (by the end of TODAY with a discounted registration fee). It greatly helps us to plan for 2025-2026.  Families that are participating in extracurricular activities only, you may use the re-enrollment link sent previously. Any questions, please contact Mr. Horning ([email protected]).

Faith & Sports…Doing Sports God’s Way…Read and Listen about it!

Recently, I (Mr. Horning) completed a lengthy paper about the integration of faith and discipleship in athletics, with some academic and personal/local research. It has a focus on what we are trying to do (by God’s guidance) at CLA as well as some ways we’d like to continue integration into PE classes. If you have any interest in reading this paper, let me know! I’d be glad to share it with you! I also was blessed to be a guest on a Christian Principals Podcast and will share the link once the podcast is published.

 Extra Curriculars Corner

Today, April 10 High School Track and Field at Tremont 4:30

CLA Rocket League vs Houston Middle School

MS Smash White vs Kung Fu Pandas (Cassville Middle)

MS Smash Green vs Marbury Middle School Bulldogs

Friday, April 11 MS Smash Green vs Chrisman Scottland Jr High

Saturday, April 12 HS Baseball games at Midwest Central 1:30 pm (2 games)

Monday, April 14 MS Track and Field at Tremont 4:30

Tuesday, April 15 HS Track and Field at Illini Central 4:15

Wednesday, April 16 Both MS Mario Kart Teams compete vs TBD

Thursday, April 17 Both MS Smash Teams compete vs TBD

Friday, April 25 esports MS vs HS tournament after school

High School esports playoffs report from this week:

CLA teams -  Inklings (Splatoon) and Smash Green were knocked out of the first round of post season playoffs.  Inklings was ranked #21; HS Smash Green was ranked #28

From the Principal's Desk

Share your (our) Faith! Next week we will gather together for an Easter Service on Thursday, April 17. It is an exciting time to gather in worship of our Lord and Savior and recognize the sacrifice of Jesus for us. It is something I look forward to each year - the corporate times of worship together with all of you. This year we’ll gather in the school gymnasium for this service. Often this gym is used to cheer on the court - as we often worship the Lord through the games played on that hardwood surface. But this time, we’ll do it through song, scripture and participation. We’ll share our faith together! Invite a friend. Bring your family! What a great opportunity we have to gather. How else are you sharing your faith as a part of your daily lives? I’d love to hear about it!

“I have no greater joy than to know that my children are walking in the truth.” 3 John 4

   Blessings,

        Mr. Horning

Lion Tales 4/3/25

Upcoming Dates on the School Calendar

Monday, April 7 Now a STUDENT ATTENDANCE day

Thursday, April 10  Updated - Early registration (save $50) ends this day!

Thursday, April 17 Easter Worship Service - 7 pm at CLA gymnasium

Friday, April 18 No School - Good Friday

Monday, April 21 No School - Easter Monday

Monday, May 5 No School - Teacher in-service

Thursday, May 15 8th Grade Promotion and 12th Grade Graduation

Friday, May 16 Last day of school - full day - field day

Invite someone to visit Christian Life Academy…

While we do not have any more scheduled open house events, you are always encouraged to share your CLA experience with others and to invite them to visit. Mr. Horning and other staff are always glad to host friends or family. Share the word!

2025-2026 Registration and Enrollment information! 

Enrollment for the new school year is open! We have a new process where our full-time academic families can enroll and re-enroll online through the Gradelink “EnrollMe” feature on our SIS. We encourage early enrollment (by April 10 with a discounted registration fee). It greatly helps us to plan for 2025-2026.  Families that are participating in extracurricular activities only, you may use the re-enrollment link sent previously. Any questions, please contact Mr. Horning ([email protected]).

Faith & Sports…Doing Sports God’s Way…Read about it in a research paper!

Recently, I (Mr. Horning) completed a lengthy paper about the integration of faith and discipleship in athletics, with some academic and personal/local research. It has a focus on what we are trying to do (by God’s guidance) at CLA as well as some ways we’d like to continue integration into PE classes. If you have any interest in reading this paper, let me know! I’d be glad to share it with you! 

 Extra Curriculars Corner

Today, April 3 esports Rocket League vs Valley View Junior High

esports MS Smash White vs Coleman Middle School (Oklahoma)

Saturday, April 5 HS Baseball HOME game with Cornerstone Christian  1:30 pm 

Monday, April 7 High School Baseball HOME game with DeeMack JV 4:30 pm 

Wednesday, April 9 Softball clinic on ball field #1

Thursday, April 10 High School Track and Field at Tremont 4:30

Saturday, April 12 HS Baseball games at Midwest Central 1:30 pm (2 games)

Current Middle School esports standings:

Mario Kart Green ranked #28 and Mario Kart White ranked #9 out of 73 teams

Smash Green ranked #77 and Smash White ranked #79 out of 142 teams

Rocket League ranked #11 out of 39 teams

Current High School esports Standings:

“Inklings” (Splatoon)  ranked #21 out of 75 teams, likely playoff bound!

Smash Green ranked #24 out of 111 teams, likely playoff bound! 

Smash White ranked #68

From the Principal's Desk

Share your (our) Faith! In a few weeks we will gather together for an Easter Service on Thursday, April 17. It is an exciting time to gather in worship of our Lord and Savior and recognize the sacrifice of Jesus for us. It is something I look forward to each year - the corporate times of worship together with all of you. This year we’ll gather in the school gymnasium for this service. Often this gym is used to cheer on the court - as we often worship the Lord through the games played on that hardwood surface. But this time, we’ll do it through song, scripture and participation. We’ll share our faith together! Invite a friend. Bring your family! What a great opportunity we have to gather. How else are you sharing your faith as a part of your daily lives? I’d love to hear about it!

“I have no greater joy than to know that my children are walking in the truth.” 3 John 4

   Blessings,

        Mr. Horning