We at NCA began the school year with a DREAM retreat.  The goal was to help students make connections between school and life.  DREAM became the acronym that set the students off on a journey headed for success.  D for dedication, R for responsibility, E for education, A for attitude and M for motivation: all character traits we want to develop in our students.  To start the event students heard from two Northstar graduates, Mr. Nelson Rivera (class of 1994) and Dr. Scott Berry (class of 1989).  They challenged students to work hard and not let the “brick walls” of life get in the way.  At the retreat students played teambuilding games and were intrigued by guest speakers that shared personal information on spiritual growth, teambuilding, and planning for the future.  Maggie Brooks shared with students the value of education and hard work.  Dick Caplan gave real life examples of how to overcome struggles on the path to your dream and Northstar graduate Mrs. Lisa Crews (class of 1987) challenged students to rely on Christ to carry them through.  Nine representatives from the community came to share and provided students with a challenge and the encouragement to do their best.  Much planning went into arranging this retreat, but was it all worth it??  Let’s see what the students had to say:

“I think the Dream Retreat was a big success. It helped us understand the meaning of the phrase, “There is no I in the word TEAM.”  The Dream Retreat really helped students understand teamwork.” -7th grade student

A 9th grade student speaking about Maggie Brooks said, “She told us the importance of education.  She gave tips for prioritizing, even giving examples with her own children.”

“As I go to school this year, I know God has big plans for me and that he will help me lead the life that I want.  Now that the Dream Retreat has given me the extra boost to do my best, I can’t wait to live this school year for God.” – 11th grade student