We would like to introduce to you The River Academy's Class of 2023! These senior students have worked diligently to arrive at this moment here at the end of their high school educational journey. This particular class has consistently displayed the kind of servant leadership and academic work ethic which makes us so proud to send them out into the world as graduates of TRA. They have blessed the entire school this year with their enthusiastic presence and with their commitment to doing whatever is asked of them and or whatever needs to be done.
Matthew Bir
A Matthew–never a Matt–would be just one of the many ways this joy-filled and positive young man could be described. Matthew has been a constructive, exuberant influence on those around him since his first day at The River Academy.
His advice to younger students demonstrates wisdom as he describes his moving to Wenatchee and attending TRA: “Younger students, from the bottom of my heart, I call you to throw off the fickle desire to be the greatest or the funniest or the coolest. Instead, cherish every moment you have wherever God places you. Our time here on earth is too short to get caught up in the past or get anxious about our future. I was just entering 7th grade, into a school I'd never been to, in a town I never heard of and still can't pronounce correctly. Cherish the past, thrive in the present, and hope for the future. Most of all, trust that through every door that closes, every chapter that ends, and every season that passes, you are in gracious, glorious, and Good hands.”
He describes Mr. Hettick as one of the more influential teachers he has had this last year: “While constantly reminding us that he is sinful and broken, his actions in truth and his heart for Jesus deliver a solemn reminder to us all that Christ is living and working for the glory of his kingdom to this day.” He has learned and grown since taking Mr. Hettick’s classes.
Matthew has varied interests, from playing the piano to all types of sports to a fascination with psychology. Most recently, he has been a part of the Wenatchee High School Track and Field team, where his event is throwing the javelin.
His favorite scripture is Hebrew 10:14: “For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy” (NIV). About this scripture, he states “We are made "perfect forever" while still being made righteous. My mom always described it as "forever, not yet." Although we hasten into sinful desires left and right, God has redeemed us the moment he drew his last breath. In forgiveness, God continues to redeem us despite our intentional rebellion against his pure, holy, and life-giving truth.”
Matthew wants to pursue a future medical career as a Missionary Doctor. He will be attending Hope College in Holland, Michigan for four years. We will miss Matthew's can-do attitude and constant smile in the halls of TRA this next year. You are a blessing to us all.
“For by one sacrifice he has made perfect forever those who are being made holy.” Hebrews 10:14
Isaiah Volyn
Except for a short break, Isaiah has attended the River Academy since KinderPrep. Always genuine and frank, his advice to younger students is “be yourself, don’t be afraid to be different, and always choose kindness.” This describes Isaiah perfectly. He is unabashedly honest, caring, and ready with a joke, a story, a laugh, or a deep conversation about truth and worldviews.
When asked who has been one influential person in his life at TRA, Isaiah replied, “Mr. Hettick–he has been the best teacher, but more than that an incredible support, godly counsel, and friend.”
Because of Isaiah’s talent in Drama and being a part of past Stage Kids productions, it is unsurprising that his favorite tradition is participating in the House Skit competitions at TRA. He always leads in House, exuberantly participating in competitions to help lead Ten Boom House to victory.
Moreover, his favorite scripture is Psalm 23:4, “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me” (NIV). Isaiah says “it reminds me that the Lord is always with me and I’m never alone!”
This fall, Isaiah will be attending the University of Idaho in Moscow. You are dearly loved, Isaiah, and we pray the Lord will continue to bless you in all your endeavors.
“Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me;...” Psalms 23:4
Noah Hansen
Noah has been at The River Academy since KinderPrep. Never one to shy away from asking how he could help, such as carrying heavy boxes for Mrs. Lane or helping Mr. Hetterle move heavy risers; his thesis topic was expected to involve “Hard Work” in the title. Mr. Howat is one teacher Noah has singled out as having a huge influence on his life through his time working with him on academic challenges.
A young man of few words (except about cars), his advice to younger students is brief and to the point “Make sure to turn everything in on time.” This is key to success at TRA!
Noah loves Psalm singing at TRA, and his favorite scripture comes from Jeremiah 29:11, which reassures, “‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV). These promises remain true and stand as a reminder that God is faithful, even when the homework gets tough.
Noah’s love of welding makes his choice of Trade School a perfect fit for the future. Noah will live out his Thesis by working well with his hands and growing into a man of God who is capable and loyal.
Noah, your joyful willingness always to help and your can-do attitude will be greatly missed.
“For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11”
Olivia Johnson
Olivia joined her classmates at the end of sixth grade and began sharing her artistic abilities with her first House, Lewis, and later Ten Boom. She has won numerous Apple Blossom awards for her art: Committee Choice, 3rd Place in 3D Mixed Media, and Sponsor’s Choice, making TRA proud in the community.
Her favorite part of the TRA tradition is House Games. Moreover, her love of learning and inquisitiveness, tempered with her love for the Lord, has served her well as she excels academically. The teacher who has had the most influence on her time at TRA is Mrs. Baker. When asked why she simply states Mrs. Baker, she’s the GOAT! (Greatest Of All Time).
Her favorite scripture is, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction" (Proverbs 1.7, NIV). Olivia has chosen this passage because, “I like it because it describes how even people considered intelligent can be fools. No matter how smart you might be, if you cannot accept guidance, you will never gain wisdom nor knowledge.”
Olivia gives this advice to younger students: “Your teachers are there to help you and want you to succeed, reach out to them.” We will miss Olivia’s dry wit and sense of humor; just to recognize her amazing sense of humor, she submitted her Passport Photo as her senior photo. May the Lord bless you, Olivia, as you take a Gap year to work on learning a couple of trades and decide on a college.
We will miss your snark, your humor, and your wit, Olivia.
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7”
Maddison Riggan
Maddie does not shy away from sharing her love for the Lord and others. As such, relationships are very important to her. This is reflected in the advice she has for younger students. “My advice to all younger students would be to use this time you have to focus on and build your relationship with Jesus. He is your greatest friend, and when life gets rough, He will be standing there with you through anything and everything. Out of all of the things that the world is trying to tell you what you are, the one that is most important and stands firm is that you are His, and He loves you. When life is hard and painful, He helps you find joy in the sorrow, peace in the storm, and comfort through the heartache, but overall; He gives us life even when there is death. When you feel joy because of good things, give God the glory, for it is His. When you are in pain, grief, anger, or whatever else, due to the struggles of life, give them up to Him and praise Him through it, and He will give you rest, for there is purpose in His plan. Because of His love and sacrifice, we are given life and freedom and are loved by the King. What a gift!”
Her favorite Bible verse is Isaiah 40:7-8, which says, "The grass withers, the flower fades, because the breath of the Lord blows upon it; surely the people are grass. The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever" (NASB). Maddie chose this verse because it “reminds me that when bad things happen, both in my own life and in today's world, God's promises stand firm through all time. Nothing can ever change them. While we as a society fade in and out century after century, God's word always prevails. He is always there, and His word applies to everyone, everywhere, in all points of time. We can have faith and trust that His word is true and good, and that He is as well.”
Maddie has chosen two staff members to mention who have had an influence on her during her time in High School. “Mrs. Reeves, one of TRA's awesome office ladies, has been there for me all throughout high school. Anytime I was struggling, she was there to talk and comfort me through it. I will never forget the peace that she brought me through her kind, wise words of comfort. I also can't go without mentioning Mr. Hettick. I knew from day one of freshman year that he was going to be my favorite teacher, and that belief has stood firm these last four years. Never once have I walked into Mr. Hettick's class and thought that I did not want to be there. He helped me find my love of reading again and helped us as a class talk about the most important things about life through the lens of these amazing stories, both the ones in books as well as everyday life. He always makes class interesting, engaging, fun, and always provides something new to talk and learn about. I think a large part of the growth in our class community has been accomplished through Mr. Hettick and his Humane Letters class, and is the one I will miss the most.”
After graduation, Maddie plans to remain in Wenatchee while she seeks the Lord’s direction. She plans to work full-time and live with her family as she prayerfully considers her future.
We will miss you, Maddie, may the Lord bless you and keep you. Keep speaking Truth in love!
"The grass withers, the flower fades, because the breath of the Lord blows upon it; surely the people are grass. The grass withers, the flower fades, but the word of our God stands forever" Isaiah 40:7-8
Talia Hurst
Talia has been at The River Academy since Kindergarten, for a total of 13 years. When asked to share her favorite TRA tradition she found it very hard to pick one. “I have so many! My favorite tradition in Elementary was field day, spelling bee, speech meet, or psalm singing in the hallways with Mrs. Walsh or relays at the end of the year barbecue. My favorite secondary tradition would be Tall Timber! My favorite house competition is synchronized swimming.”
Advice she would give to younger students is “to be patient and kind in every situation. Strife will occur in your class but choosing to display grace towards others is beneficial. Choose to be diligent in your schoolwork and strive to love what you are learning.” Talia lives this out daily.
Talia shares her favorite scripture verse found in Romans. The reason she has chosen this verse is that “It is a long verse but one of my favorites, one that I always come back to. I have many favorite verses, but this one sticks out to me the most. It is the clearest passage of how a Christian should act and it is an amazing guideline every morning to look at and ask God for guidance. I just love it!”
"Let love be without hypocrisy. Abhor what is evil. Cling to what is good. Be kindly affectionate to one another with brotherly love, in honor giving preference to one another. Not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord. Rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer. Distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep. Be of the same mind toward one another. Do not set your mind on high things, but associate with the humble. Do not be wise in your own opinion. Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath…Do not be overcome with evil but overcome evil with good." Romans 12:9-21
When asked about a person at TRA who has been influential her reply is filled with love and grace: “Every teacher has been extremely influential in my life. The one that sticks out to me the most is Mrs. Koempel. She has always been one of my favorite teachers who has taught me the importance of putting her whole effort into everything she does. She teaches SO well and is an amazing human being. She is an amazing mom and dedicated teacher who wants her students to continually succeed and truly understand what they are learning. She is a brilliant mentor and a hilarious friend. I want to be like her one day. Ever since I had her as a teacher in ninth grade I have always looked up to her. She is a wonder woman! She makes me want to be an influential teacher one day. I admire the way she balances her work life with her family life and personal life.”
Talia is a well-rounded person; her favorite hobbies range from soccer to coloring books! She loves to go on runs or just sit outside and enjoy God's creation. During summer months she enjoys backpacking, camping, paddle boarding, spending time with friends, and making memories.
Talia is an accomplished athlete and has served as Captain of several soccer teams, including Wenatchee High School. She has received several Awards including the “Game Changer Award,” First-Team All-league during her senior year of high school soccer, and First-Team All-League Honorable Mention her junior year. Talia has been awarded an athletic scholarship to play soccer for Northwest University where she will be pursuing a degree in elementary education.
Chloe Heneghen
Chloé Chaunte Jean Heneghen has attended The River Academy since the start of her sophomore year. Coming to TRA from public school was a shock and a challenge, but Chloe was ready for that challenge and stepped up in every way.
Right from the start, she jumped in as a House leader and worked to conquer the academic load. Her favorite TRA traditions are House on Fridays or Chapel on Wednesdays–she often joins in the worship team and readily charges ahead in House activities.
One piece of advice that Chloe has for younger students “always try to reconcile differences or conflicts between you and your classmates. This will help you create stronger bonds and ultimately make your time together much more enjoyable. Some of my biggest regrets come from not doing this and so I can only encourage you to do more because of personal experiences.”
Chloe’s favorite verse is Philippians 4:6-7, which encourages believers “Don’t be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (ESV). She finds this encouraging in her daily walk with the Lord and as she thinks about her future.
Chloe has learned so much from Mr. Hettick, “who has helped push me forward into my relationship with the Lord. I admire how well versed he is in scripture and I continue to try and grow more in my own studies. He not only is a fantastic teacher but he has become someone who I look up to and hope to come sit back in his class in the future.”
Chloe has received a Lions Club Award for leadership for leading on her sports teams and in the classroom. She received a letter my freshman (as the only freshman to receive one) and sophomore year of track at WHS, as well as the most athletic award, and she has broken three records for throwing in track.
She plans to attend Vector Academy through Grace City Church which is a yearlong Bible college. She will also be serving in youth ministry and hopes to travel and have adventures around the world.
She really enjoys hiking, camping, and just being around nature especially as the weather gets warmer. She also loves to play ultimate frisbee and spike ball with friends, and wants to learn to wakeboard this summer!
We’ll miss you, Chloe! We wish you’d been with us longer!
“Don’t be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” Philippians 4:6-7
Wyatt Darnell
Wyatt has been at TRA for 10 years and has grown so much in his confidence and leadership abilities. His favorite TRA tradition is ski day because the school takes a day to foster fellowship amongst the students while being out in God’s creation.
Wyatt’s advice for next year’s senior class is that they should “Be a good example for the younger elementary kids. Be humble. And take risks–risks are different for everybody, but it's important to do what feels uncomfortable. Being uncomfortable is how you grow.” He has lived this out in his work with Mr. Hettick and Mr. McCardle during PE and being the assistant coach for the TRA Junior High basketball team.
His favorite verse from Scripture is when “Jesus turned and said to Peter, “‘Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.’” (NIV, Matthew 16.23). Wyatt has taken this to heart while working diligently and courageously to persevere through the rigors of a TRA education.
Mr. Hettick is Wyatt’s favorite teacher: “he's pushed me to my limits but encouraged me along the way. He's been a personal role model to me and has helped me through hard times.”
Ultimately, Wyatt wants to become a music producer after he leaves TRA. “I love EDM (Electronic Dance Music) and my ultimate goal is to start as a DJ in the EDM field, keep producing my own music, and eventually get signed on with a record label.” Wyatt currently does produce his own music, and that has been the impetus for his Senior Thesis and Poiesis projects. But that is not Wyatt’s only interest. “When I'm not making music I am at the skatepark. Most of my hobbies involve risk taking. I love riding dirt bikes and doing flips off of anything possible. But my biggest hobby is riding scooters. I love to perfect my tricks, learn new tricks, and spend time teaching the younger kids there.” Wyatt exemplifies the TRA ethos of speaking into the lives of younger students, and that’s not simply reserved to the school’s campus.
Wyatt, your servant’s heart and willingness to push yourself is an example to all–we’ll miss you!
“Get behind me, Satan! You are a stumbling block to me; you do not have in mind the concerns of God, but merely human concerns.” Matthew 16:23
Ellie Johnson
Ellie has attended TRA for 14 years, the longest of any student in her class. The TRA tradition she will miss most is Psalm Sing on Mondays. “I love psalm singing on Monday morning because it gets me in the right mindset for the week. Ever since I was little I have always enjoyed it. Mondays are hard, but praising God with my friends makes it a little easier.”
As she reflects on her time at TRA, Ellie has this piece of advice for students in lower classes. “I would say remember to enjoy your time here at the River Academy. It really is special and unique, and you will never experience something like this. It can be hard, weird, and uncomfortable, but it is so worth it. We are all weird and awkward here, so you might as well embrace it.” Ellie says that finding time to be with friends is essential to the TRA experience, while also having some hobbies: “I really love baking, I like playing softball, but mainly just being with my loved ones. Nothing makes me happier than that.”
Ellie’s verse to remember is Isaiah 12:2, which reminds us: "Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The LORD, the LORD himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.” This is one of her favorite Bible verses because it is always a good reminder that her hope is not in anything of this world, but in the Lord and that is enough to give her peace and happiness.
While Ellie loves all her teachers at TRA, she knows that “one for sure would be Mr. Hettick. He makes me want to come to class, even on Mondays! He has helped me grow in my faith over these last four years, and I am so grateful for the way that God has used Him because He has helped me so much. He is an amazing teacher, truly.”
After graduating TRA, Ellie’s plan is to go to Wenatchee Valley College and get her AA while she searches for what I want to do as my career, and then go to college for it. She knows that God has plans for her and that He will reveal His path while she works on growing and learning at WVC.
Ellie, we’ll miss you during Psalm Sing–come back any Monday!
"Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord himself, is my strength and my defense; he has become my salvation.” Isaiah 12:2
Rami Escure
Rami came to TRA in his Junior year, not exactly sure what his experience would be, but he was ready for the challenge. From the start, he leapt into House activities and stepped up as a leader. His favorite TRA activity is House, but particularly the hallway decorations that come with Reformation Day–he was part of leading the charge during one of the most creative decoration years yet!
Rami’s advice for younger students is to “Be prepared for a lot of hard work but in the end it always pays off. The hard work you put in is worth every second.” Rami works day in and day out to balance his school load with his extremely busy swim schedule. He was on a team that placed 5th at a swim meet that was hosting 11 states. He personally placed 5th and 8th in his individual events at state and made sectionals times. In the meantime, Rami swims, hikes, fishes, rides motorcycles, and helps run a small business.
The verse that speaks to and encourages Rami the most is “Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” (NIV, Philippians 4.5-7). This verse has helped me through a lot of disappointments and is helpful for dealing with life when anxiety hits you.
Rami wants to thank Mrs. Baker who has been a great influence and encouragement to Rami while he’s integrated into the TRA community (and for pushing him to grow as a student).
Rami is planning on going off to college and hopefully going to swim. He is going to Southwestern Oregon community college in Coos Bay, Oregon with a tuition waver because of his grades and will be swimming for the college team.
Rami, we will miss you–we wish you’d been with us longer!
“Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus” Philippians 4:5-7
Andrew Harris
Since Andrew joined The River Academy five years ago, the halls have been a bit louder. Yes, he has a loud voice, but it will be the spontaneous outbreak of amazing songs or vehement philosophical or theological debates that we will miss.
Andrew immediately dove into House when he arrived at TRA in 8th grade, and he loves all the House activities, but his favorite is four-way soccer, the game used to traditionally kick-off the school year House competition.
Andrew’s advice to younger students is that they need to “Be unified and stay focused on your work.” Relationships between students are essential at TRA, and it’s the thing that can make or break a class. He loves going to the gym, spending quality time with his friends and family, and debating theology with his peers.
The verse Andrew has been challenged to live by is 1 Peter 2:17, which says, “Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.” This verse demonstrates how we must be under our Earthly authorities while remaining in constant fear of God. Now fear in this context does not entirely mean constant sweating from an actual blood curdling feeling. To fear God is to acknowledge His power and greatness and to live in constant acknowledgement of the sovereignty of God.”
When asked about his awards and accomplishments, Andrew humbly reminds us that “I have so many accomplishments that this mere page cannot hold.” While this is true, Andrew is a constant light and encouragement to his classmates and teachers, truly embodying the love for learning that TRA hopes to foster.
After TRA, Andrew will begin pursuing a degree in business at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
We’ll miss you, Andrew!
“Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.” 1 Peter 2:17
Jude Kaylor
Jude came to The River Academy two years ago and immediately took up the challenge of a new school and a new class right on the brink of graduation. He got involved in House and has pushed himself to think and learn well. Jude’s favorite aspect of TRA is “The fact that we do chapel.” He regularly participates in leading Chapel worship, sings heartily in Psalm sing, and lives out the ethos of Christian maturity–a Core Value at TRA. He also loves “the opportunity to compete against our fellow houses in a battle of fun chaos.”
Hoping always to encourage his fellow TRA students, Jude’s piece of advice is that “God is good! He is the Lord of peace and he is a faithful God! Trust in him and this season of life you are in right now. Also don't procrastinate; do your work, I made that mistake don't do it!” Truer words were never written, Jude! But more than that, Jude wants to bless his fellow students: "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope" (NIV, Romans 15.13). He further explains that “The Holy Spirit fills us with hope and allows us to be filled with joy and peace if we abide in him.” Jude is directly referencing our Chapel Theme this year, which he seeks to live out daily.
Jude wants to honor Mr. Hettick and Mr. McCardle: “Both have been mentors to me and very influential in my life.”
When asked about any accomplishments that he would like to share, Jude said, “I am somehow still alive, accomplishment enough.” In addition to being alive, Jude “composes music almost as if my life was a film and the music I create a film score. Also I love poetry, yeah I'm a nerd.” And we’re so proud of you, Jude!
After he leaves TRA, Jude is going down to Portland Bible College to study worship and theology “and maybe get hitched. No, I’m kidding...maybe.”
May the Lord bless you and all your endeavors, Jude! We’ll miss you.
"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope." Romans 15:13
Aidan Shattuck
Aidan has attended The River Academy for a total of 6 non-consecutive years, the first year being Second Grade with Mrs. Walsh, then 4th, 7th-8th grade, and then from 11th-12th grade. The first things people notice about Aidan is his amazing and magnificent golden mane, but also his winning smile. He is quick to offer encouragement and a helping hand when he sees the need. Aidan is a humble young man who dislikes bringing attention to himself, though he is genuine and good-hearted and stands up for what is right.
His favorite TRA tradition is Psalm Sing with the whole school. When asked to describe who would be the most influential person at The River Academy, he would pick Mr. Hettick because he cares about the students and points them toward who the Lord is.
Aidan advises next year's seniors, “Build relationships with your classmates and teachers. School gets so much better when you have these relationships and you will do better in school because you will want to do good work for your teachers and do better than your classmates who can be quite competitive.”
Aidan’s favorite passage of Scripture is 1 John 4:8, which tells us, “Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” He says, “I really like this one because as a Christian, it can be very easy to judge the world instead of loving and caring for those in it. This verse reminds me to be loving, especially when dealing with those I do not agree with.”
This next year, Aidan will be enrolled in a Spanish-speaking High School in Sevilla, Spain for 7 months before attending Barcelona Tennis Academy in Spain before traveling Europe.
“Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.” 1 John 4:8
We will dearly miss these young men and women and are so thankful that we were able to be a part of their lives and formation into Christian leaders. If you see them around, please congratulate them and wish them well in their future endeavors!