OCS welcomes new staff, embraces ‘Love in Action’ theme for new school year

||| FROM ORCAS CHRISTIAN SCHOOL |||

Orcas Christian School (OCS) is beginning the new school year with new faces, a new sense of purpose and an emphasis on putting faith into action.

Among the new faces at OCS is the school’s new principal, Joel Shetler, who recently moved to Orcas Island with his wife from Spencerville, Maryland. Previously a high school science teacher, he said the move represents an exciting new chapter for the couple.

“We are excited to start a new chapter of life here on Orcas Island,” he said.

OCS also welcomes Uarlisson Machado as its new middle school and high school math and science teacher. Machado holds an undergraduate degree in environmental engineering and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in divinity. He and his wife, Pollyana, are relocating to Orcas Island from Michigan.

The new school year also brings a new theme for the OCS community, based on 1 John 3:18: “Dear children, let us not love with words or speech but with actions and in truth.”

That message was highlighted during the school’s back-to-school bash, where students placed signed handprints on a bulletin board featuring the words “Love in Action.”

The theme reflects the school’s desire to put its faith into practice throughout the year. In addition to the schoolwide theme, OCS staff have selected a core value to emphasize throughout the school year: Unity.

Staff members want to build a school community that is united in its purpose, actions and identity.

“Unity” will be a recurring theme throughout the year as OCS works to strengthen its community and create a shared sense of purpose among students, staff and families.

With new staff members, a new school year and a renewed focus on faith and community, OCS is looking forward to an exciting year ahead.