Platte Valley Academy Forum

Questions

2009-01-30T16:13:00.002-06:00

Mike Campbell:

This might sound a little weird, but bear with me for a minute or two. My name is Adrianne. I'm a student in Kearney, NE who recently stumbled across your (nearly two-year-old) blog about your old school, the Platte Valley Academy. It answered a lot of questions for me. I remember driving past that sign with my friends when I was younger and wondering exactly what that place was. Christian boarding school? 7th-Day-Adventist, I think is what it said. I went to Kearney's private Catholic school myself.

Anyway, I was just wondering if you'd answer a few other questions about the community. Because there seems to be a surrounding community. I'd understand if you thought this was way too much prying just for curiosity's sake, but I figured it couldn't hurt to ask.

Sincerely,

Adrianne

Hotmail® goes where you go. On a PC, on the Web, on your phone. See how.

An update from the Editor

2007-08-28T12:54:00.002-05:00

First and formost, This site is not disscontinued. I got flooded by spam and have needed to change the address for recieving posts it is now "stealth_of_pva.pvablog (at) blogger.com" (I did not use the @ due to programs that spammed the site before)

On another note: If you wish to help support this site there are now two ways to do it. You can click on the ads at the top of the page (a small amount is donated for each click.) or you can donate by clicking on the "Donate" button by the hit counter on the bar on the right side of the page. Thank you everyone for your support.

The Editor,
Mike Campbell (PVA 03-06, MNHS Class of 2007)

Welcome to the New School Year.

2006-08-18T17:37:00.000-05:00

I would like to welcome all the new students to the new school year at Platte Valley Academy. I would also like to congratulate the class of 2007 for making it to their senior year. (congratulations!!! Sorry I'm not with you guys this year.) To adders a major concern toward the end of last school year: This site is not closing. I am nolonger a student at Platte Valley but I do support the school. This site is still just as easy to post to and open to every one. We have not had any new comments this summer but I hope this site will still pose as a forumn for open discussion of and about the school and events going on there. If you wish to post a topic just send it in E-mail format to "stealth_of_pva.forum@blogger.com" the Subject becomes your title and the body the post.

Thank you for making this site what it is.

The Editor
Mike Campbell Class of 2007 at Millard North High School and former student at PVA

Meandering Thoughts from Pastor Brehms

2006-05-31T08:19:00.000-05:00

A Meandering of my thoughts about PVA and Adventist Education in general.

This is the first time I have chosen to speak out on this forum. I have spent the last six and a half years of my life working with Platte Valley Academy in the capacity of district pastor. I sent my son Justin there, and he graduated in "04". My daughter Heather just finished her junior year and looks forward to returning her senior year "07". I have watched enrollment decline over the past six and a half years. There has been genuine concern over this decline on the part of the board upon which I have been a member. Currently I have accepted a call, and by the time this is posted to the blog will have already left for my new post in Northern California.

PVA is not where I graduated from. I attended Monterey Bay Academy in Watsonville. It was one of the best four years of my teenage life, and it was strict. nothing like the strictness of today. Today we are extremely lax in comparison. Movie Theatre attendance was grounds for being expelled. and there was nothing more than intramural sports. I don't think things were so bad back then. Yes, the discipline was much more strict than in many Adventist homes, but is it possible that this is a shame on our Adventist homes, and not the school.

In my academy days many of the kids referred to "the prison" I never thought of it that way, because my home was far more strict than the academy. That is why the pen of inspiration warns parents to be careful who their children play with, and to make sure that the standards of parenting are the same. It disturbs me that the discussion even came up about video games. My stand is, and has been, if it has nothing to do with enhancing academics, then it doesn't belong on campus. Computers are to assist young people in research, and to help them understand the high tech world they are going to be entering. The games themselves, many of them innocuous are for the most part a colossal waste of time. I have observed my daughter spend hours in front of a game boy brought into the home by my son-in-law. I mean hours and hours. Granted she gets good grades, and she does a great deal of reading. But, she is like myself, sedentary in her habits which contributes to an unhealthy outcome.

I was, and remain antagonistic to competitive sports in our schools. I have heard all the arguments about learning sportsmanship, and learning to be gracious in loss and victory, sorry, it's so much trash as far as I am concerned. Competitive sports by their very nature are a part of Satan's kingdom. Now don't rise up and say I said they were Satanic. I DID NOT SAY THAT! However, in Satan's system there is always a loser. For you to win in Satan's system someone else has to lose. Well you say, that's life, and so it is, but to nurture and encourage the competitive spirit is antagonistic to God's system in which you compete with yourself. You strive continually to be better than you were before, not to best someone else, or to defeat another individual, but to constantly be doing whatever it is you do better than you did it before. music, physical exercise, work. Whatever it is. That is God's system. Which system are we stressing at our academies, which we have declared are dedicated to the training of young people of service to God? "Training The Youth of Today To Be The Leaders of Tomorrow!"

I recognize that the unregenerate, unconverted heart is selfish, and is always striving for supremacy. That is the natural course of our sinful condition. Competition will be present whether we want it or not. It will take the form of: our band is better than their band, or our choir is better than their choir, and the story will go on and on. However, the thrust of academic activities should still be to be the best you can be despite a grade curve, or what someone else is doing, and the question is which system are we emphasizing in our schools. How in the world of competitive sports ever made into our schools with the plethora of statements from the pen of inspiration that is totally and completely and without equivocation antagonistic to it, is beyond me. There has been some artful twisting of the Spirit of Prophecy to get that one accomplished.

The video games are just an extension of the competitive sports deal with the exception that is does nothing to physically invigorate you spiritually, or physically, and in fact evidence would suggest that it makes some young people withdraw socially. Maybe your kid won't react that way, just like not every person has a gene that makes them an alcoholic with very little exposure to alcohol, but if even one kid is adversely effected, is it worth the risk.

I know this piece is meandering as it has touched on what many will think are unrelated issues, but they are related. What are we sending our kids to academy for? Why are we spending $10,000.00 a year in tuition? if not for something better than the world offers. An Oasis from worldly influences. Will the worldly influences come? Yes. Do we need to invite them, receive them, and go out and hunt for them to come? Absolutely NOT!

One more thought about the competitive sports issue. Since the emphasis on sports has come into our educational system. Music programs nationwide have suffered. Money that once went to support scholarships at universities like Southwestern Adventist University now go for sports scholarships. It used to be that if you were a sat lead chair, or were in the select choir you were eligible for scholarships. Not anymore! Now that money is channeled to sports scholarships, and for what? not one of those kids with those scholarships will ever play professional ball. they will never make a living at it. Recruiters won't even come and see them play in our little one horse arenas, and basically Sports are just not academic, it does nothing to enhance mental discipline which is what education is all about. The best that can be said about it is that it keeps you physically fit, and there is numerous other things that could keep you equally fit. We have traded our silk purse for a sow ear, and no one seems to get it.

Last but no least. I never opposed outright video games on campus. I did oppose and still oppose video games on students personal computers in their rooms. It has put the deans in a position of policing something that is virtually impossible to police. It force them to invade the privacy of the students computer to be sure that games that have absolutely no place in a Christian's possession are not there.

Had the suggestion been to create a student center in the administration building where students with qualifying grades could come for some down time and play games on a school owned machine, controlled by the staff, game boy, any of the programs. That would have been far better than what we got.

The board voted for the academy staff to come up with a policy regarding video games. They (the faculty) did. They said they didn't want them on campus. The Board then interpreted that vote in November to be a vote to force the acceptance of video games in the dorms, and since the staff and faculty had not come up with a policy (which did not include not having video games) they had lost their right to call the shots. I was one of those board members who absolutely did not believe that we had voted to force the staff to make a policy. I was as amazed at the next board meeting when we were informed that the vote was a done deal, and that it could only be revisited by a 2/3rds majority vote. "Like that was going to happen".

Well it is no longer my responsibility. I love PVA, my heart is there, my children have attended there. I respect the staff and teachers. They have done an outstanding job training my children. It is my opinion that with both Gary Russell and Jim Goodchild which I know to be honest, moral and deeply devout men, have been micro managed from Topeka. This must stop. PVA administration must have the ability to make decisions regarding policy that as long as it does not violate the educational code of the General Conference, Mid-America Union, or the Kansas-Nebraska Conference, and have the unconditional backing of the conference administration and the academy board. Neither the conference officials, or the board members with the exception of a very few are on campus enough to know what is really going on, and therefore policy issues regarding academic standards, leisure activity and discipline should be left to the Administration of the academy without interference from conference or board.

When each young person and their parent registers for school, they sign that they have read the handbook and will comply with the provisions of that handbook, and any subsequent provisions that may be adopted. What I have observed is a few whiny brat kids that have run to mommy and daddy with "poor me, their being mean to me, and they won't let me do this or that", and mommy and daddy instead of saying, "That's tough, life doesn't always go your way, and you need to buck up and do what you signed at the beginning of the year that you would do. Comply with rules of this institution, not come and then try to change the rules because you don't like them." Rather parents have themselves become whiny and complained and at times verbally abused the faculty and staff because their kids were whiners. My grandmother (who raised me) might not always have agreed with what the teachers or staff did, but I never knew it. There was always a united front between my grandmother and the teachers. If I caught it at school, I double caught it at home. To bad it's not that way anymore.

I will continue to pray for Platte Valley Academy. I still believe it is the best kept secret in North America. Please, PLEASE, PLEASE don't let it die because of micro management from above. May God help us all to this end, and sorry I rambled.

Pastor Randy Brehms

Former Pastor: Aurora, Grand Island, and Shelton/Platte Valley Academy

Site Policy

2006-05-25T22:15:00.000-05:00

Due to the new problem with spam I will be changing the Topic Posting procedure. Instead of topics going straight up they will be kept in the queue until I can post them.

Thank you for your understanding,
The Editor

Temporary Hold Up

2006-05-09T11:03:00.000-05:00

There may be a temporary hold on comments due to restricted access. Please
continue to post them as I will try to get them up as soon as possible,
but it may be longer than I wish.

Also, remember the archive on the bottom of the menu on the right side of
the screen. There you can find all the old articles and comments.

Thank you,
The Editor

P.S. Keep on posting... this is the place to show your concerns or
anything about the academy.

[EDIT:] The hold has passed and I am back on full access so coments will be posted on a daily basis.

Also I am proud to announce that as of the close of May 13th we had exactly 700 individual visits sience I started tracking. Thank You!

"While Nero twiddled his thumbs, Rome burned!"

2006-04-26T22:06:00.000-05:00

Concern #1: Music groups of band and Balladaires left PVA Friday, April 21, for a tour to the west. The first stop was Cheyenne, WY, on Friday evening. The whole sum of three people were there to hear them! When a prominent Cheyenne church member was called, it was discovered they were unaware of the concert. This is an example of the lack of leadership at the school. Maybe the principal should have remained at the school the week before this to make sure all arrangements had been made for this important tour instead of vacationing in Florida when adequate supervision was already present.

Concern #2: As of April 26 there are five teaching positions to fill for the '06-'07 school year, plus one dean, one cafeteria director, and possibly two others. As of this writing no positions have been filled. By the first of May most college graduates have accepted a position. None of these openings are posted on the NAD educational web site, which is where most candidates look seriously for job openings. Mr. Castle and Mr. Goodchild, what are you waiting for? Based upon these facts, will PVA open in the fall?

Concern #3: When the conference president comes for an event on campus, why is the farm the first place he visits? Isn't PVA first and foremost an educational facility?

Concern #4: In the last two weeks the principal has been gone for all but two days. From April 12 -19 he was in Florida with the seniors, and from April 24 - 26, he was evaluating another academy. Both of these times away are optional for the principal. At a crucial time like this (the need for hiring new personnel) why isn't he at PVA arranging interviews?

Concern #5: The principal is not a certified administrator, is not taking classes to become certified, and was originally hired as interim principal for one year so the conference would have more time to search for a qualified person. No search was ever conducted to find a qualified principal. Currently, the conference is micromanaging the academy.

Concern #6: Would a townhall meeting be appropriate at this time?

video games at school

2006-04-09T23:37:00.000-05:00

There was a time when our academies were hailed as the BEST Christian academies and we had students from many nations, denominations, and every walk of life. Jesus Christ was uplifted and His presence was felt by all. The students were eager and energetic to help each other and anybody they thought needed a helping hand. You could, and would see small groups of teenagers praying and discussing subjects that elevated the mind and soul to the courts of heaven. The staff and faculty worked together with the school board in the best interest of the students, to keep them connected with the One who gives all life and wisdom. We sent our children to a private boarding academy, (even though the cost was equal to a state university), not to be like the world and learn worldly ways, but to become those of a "peculiar generation, being in the world but not of the world".

I find it deeply saddening that we have no more to offer our students than what the world offers them. Just as sad are the open and vehement remarks made and now being aired by both sides. Where are the Christian Values and Biblical principles? You should all be ashamed of your actions and attitudes. I agree with Debbie Morse, we should all be on our knees seeking the wisdom and council of our Blessed Redeemer, not fault finding and backbiting. What are we showing our youth and the world, who IS watching? Are we not counseled to abstain from the appearance of all evil? How can we expect our children or others, to WANT to stay with and practice our beliefs when we compromise on so many policies, principles and the guidance given by Scripture and Spirit of Prophecy? Do we still uphold the values and principles set forth by God the Father and Jesus Christ His only begotten Son? I have to question the integrity of our school board members, staff,and faculty who openly declared by word or deed, the apparent disregard and disrespect of those who openly opposed the secularization of our academies.

I truly believe that when the vote was accepted to allow and encourage the tools of Satan to be employed by our students, it was in affect, a vote to close our academy. We adamantly declare our Seventh Day Adventist heritage,values, and our Christianity, and yet we eagerly offer our children upon the alters of Baal.

I long to send my grandchildren to a Seventh Day Adventist academy when they are of academy age, however I cannot bring myself to willingly subject them to such an environment that does not foster Biblically sound doctrine, attitude, and actions, which are also contrary to the Spirit of Prophecy. I can use public schools for that.

Let us remember the children of Isreal and all the times they turned away from God, and how He removed His mighty hand and let them wander after thier wicked ways. We need to turn back to the Lord God, YHWH, repent of our wicked way, and seek forgiveness, while there is still time. Probation is fast approaching, and we should seek His face bringing honor and glory back to God, that He might return and bless our academies once again.

May The Lord God bless each of us as we continually seek Him and His Righteousness.

Phil Troudt - Nelson SDA Church

PVA Board Members '05-'06

2006-04-09T12:06:00.000-05:00

Conf. employees on the board at PVA (1)Becky Anderson (conf. related)- pastor's wife Omaha Memorial- introduced video games to the board; (2) Chuck Castle (conf. employed) - Ed. Supt. of KS/NE & past principal of PVA; (3) John Mathews (conf. employed) trust services; (4) Russell Snyder (conf. emloyed) farm manager; (5) Jim Goodchild (conf. employed) current principal under the direction of Chuck Castle; (6) Ron Russell (conf. employed) at Union level - father of Gary Russell past principal of PVA ;(7) Randy Brehms (conf. employed) pastor of PVA; (8) Jim Hoehn (conf. president & board chair, conference leader); (9) John Treolo (conf. employed) media and promotions; (10) Don Stricker (conf. employed) finance; (11) Larry Clements (conf. employed) PVA finance; 12) Larry Milliken, (conf. employed) pastor, North Platte; 13) Rodney Long, (conf. employed) pastor, Scottsbluff

Nonconf. board members (1.) Josh Huenergardt, Lincoln (son of conf. legal consultant); (2.) Alan Darnell, alumnus, Hoskins; (3) Wain Kranz , alumnus, Eddyville ; (4) Sheila Rushlau, alumnus, Omaha; (5) David Peckham, alumnus, Indianola; (6) Jim Lippincott, Blair.

Questions addressed to alumni, parents, and constiuents:

1. Who determines the length of service of a board member?

2. How are board members selected?

3. Who determines why board members are asked to leave? (Example - Randy Nelson)

4. What's the recommended ratio of conference to non-conference representatives?

5. Why do board members have to be careful what they say to avoid negative consequences? ( I know of examples).

6. If the board represents PVA , why is the farm so financially endowed and the school so financially deprived?

7. Why is the farm separated from the school when the farm was established to support the school? (For example: On April 1, a staff member and three dairy students were held up as punishment because one of those workers was slow. Consequently, the four of them did not have supper until 9 p.m.) Does anybody even care? This has been the pattern for years.

PVA Board Meeting - Sunday April 2, 2006

2006-03-31T06:10:00.000-06:00

Let's Hope The Agenda Includes :

1. Image of PVA

2. Priorties and misson of PVA

Image --&-- Priorties

2006-03-26T19:39:00.000-06:00

March 26, 2006 at PVA records several things that makes a statement. First, central Nebraske has had almost two foot of snow . As you read this there are approximately 15 buckets collecting the melting snow water in the ad building. The celing tiles are falling. Some walls are wet. This has been going on for 15 years or more! Secondly, perspective students are there during the elementary concert. Not a very pretty sight. Thirdly, the cows are enjoying their "dry" loafng barn which cost $250,000. Not to mention the proposed sprinkler system shortly to be coming so the cows can be cool this coming hot Nebraska summer.

These times

2006-03-16T08:22:00.000-06:00

I am greatly bothered by the current controversy. There are two issues as I see it. The first is that this was a board decision, not an ad council one, which, if I understand the procedure correctly, is the direction this should have taken (and was not.) If this is the case, the situation should be reexamined by ad council and let them have the final decision. Aren't they the ones that have been placed there to decide these kinds of issues? If they review the policy and decide to uphold it, we should have nothing more to say about it.

Second, I am extremely saddened to see the polarization that this issue has caused. We are in the final days of earth's history, and we should be banding together to build each other up, not tear each other apart. This is the issue at the heart of this matter. I implore everyone involved on both sides to get on their knees, as I am doing, and plead with God for guidance. We must not forget that he is sovereign in all things. Set aside your agendas and pride, because if anything is going to drive people out of the church, it is this kind of controversy.

Debbie Morse
Class of 2000

STOP IN YOUR TRACKS

2006-03-16T04:32:00.000-06:00

EVERYONE STOP WHERE YOU ARE AND PRAY!!

It's 2 AM and I can't sleep because of this mess that I just found about yesterday. I am greatly disturbed over how easily Satan can get us side-tracked.

Just stop and look what is being accomplished. Anger. Frustration. Disillusionment. Stone throwing. What good can come out of it? NONE!!!

For the record, as a teacher of 9 years (six of those at Platte Valley) and as a parent - I HATE video games. HOWEVER -- let's give the board a break here. They are trying to be in touch with reality and be forward thinking. The reality is that kids virtually everywhere these days ARE playing video games. Most of my students here in Washington play video games quite regularly. I don't like it -- but in most cases they are still performing well academically and still have a descent spiritual life. The biggest problem arrises when students spend LARGE amounts of time playing (especially "bad" ) games - then their grades drop, etc.

Let's face it -- times have changed. The board has recognized that and have put in place a well thought out policy that will prevent abuses from taking place. We all know that some were already doing it -- just like some of you listened to radios back in the good old days when they were "illegal" in the dorms.

The ironic thing is that the board and all the alumni, staff, etc. have the best interest in mind for the school - but when there is division & strife (mud slinging) everyone gets muddy. The worst part of it is that the students are caught in the middle and are losing sight of God in this mess because they can't see God in the mud slinging adults around them.

I truely believe that if everyone spent as much time PRAYING for Platte Valley as they did bickering over stupid issues, well then we wouldn't be having this discussion now. As one of my students from PVA often said - KEEP LOOKING UP !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Respectfully,

Keith Kerbs, PVA staff member 1998 - 2004

Relax. Yahoo! Mail virus scanning helps detect nasty viruses!

Concerns for our Academy

2006-03-12T21:46:00.000-06:00

It is interesting to read the comments of people about our school. The alumni have been fairly silent over the years and it seems like the time for the alumni to become more active in relating to our school. There are some things that I have noticed over the years.

It seems time for the people of Nebraska to elect their own board chairman. The current leadership of the conference president as board chair just doesn’t seem to work. This man is busy overseeing a two state conference and around 60-70 pastors and churches, and just doesn’t have the time to see that important things are covered and done at Enterprise or Platte Valley. Turn the board over to someone who can be sure things are done and let Enterprise do the same. I have been on the campus of PVA on Sundays when the board meets and it is rather surprising how many conference people are on the board and who have the conference president as their boss. It would be difficult for these people to speak their true feelings in that situation or to speak against actions that are taken. It seems like there are many pastors on the PVA board and combine these with the conference representation and the question arises, Are the good people of Nebraska truly representated at our academy because doesn’t the academy belong to the people of Nebraska and that the conference is just overseeing it? In speaking to people across the conference and even running across some teachers, it seems like there is a lack of confidence in our leadership. The people seem to have little to say in support of our current education superintendent and other leaders. These men should be doing a job that people can admire and lay the groundwork for the future. Is it true that PVA does not have a long term plan in place. How can one get anywhere without goals?

Another concern I have noticed is the farm. I was fortunate to work at one time for Mr. Bascom. It was clear that he was there to create a good school instead of a good farm. Mr. Bascom attended faculty meetings and even Ad Councils and church services as well as the programs put on by the students. It seems like the staff on the farm doesn’t show that same support today. If the school gets back on track, then the whole staff needs to be united. When one drives through the farm, it is obvious that there is a goal for the farm and that their projects are being funded. There are new tractors being used, a large free stall building, and a good milking parlor. Plus, I have heard that a new sprinkler system is being installed. I have also run across people who have worked there and after learning that I was an alumni and past farm worker, they have expressed the feeling that they were not treated in a Christian manner while working at the academy. That is a sad testimony when the sign at the road says a “Christian” boarding academy and I believe Christian values should be present everywhere on campus. The last time I walked through the Ad Building and some classrooms, it was obvious that funding was not happening in the education area of the school. The science room still had equipment that were in my classes decades ago. Things did not look as good as the farm. Isn’t the reason PVA is here is to provide a good school for our young people instead of a good farm? I believe it is the time for accountability for the conference people and those on staff who hold high positions. I would urge my fellow alumni to get involved and start asking questions and if those higher up people don’t have answers, ask them why? On a trip, I and my wife stopped at the South Dakota academy that closed. It was the saddest place on earth to walk around a place that once trained young people. It would be equally sad to have a silent, inactive place at Shelton.

A Concerned Alumnus

Farewell

2006-03-06T22:53:00.000-06:00

Hello everybody.

The last few days have been really hard for me. My faith has been tried and
tried again, and I have decided to throw in the towel. I'm done guys. I have
heard no talk of readressing the issue and, the way I see it, there is no point
of fighting a battle that cannot be won. I may not be returning to this school
after spring break and I will not be comming back next year. So, I say farewell
to you all. I wish you all the best and will continue to pray for you and for
the school.

Matt

Concern

2006-03-05T21:35:00.000-06:00

Concerned,

Like many graduates (1963), I also am concerned about the future of PVA. After working for many years in another boarding academy and then later at La Sierra University, I have seen a change in the standards from what I experienced at Platte Valley. I remember when radios were not allowed and now at La Sierra University, the students not only have stereo sound systems, but computers with broadband internet available in every room. How times change things.

I have also sensed a change in the students. As a result of globalization and an expansion of information available thru the news media and the internet, todays students know more about the world and its problems than I knew, as a high school senior, about my home state of Nebraska. I believe they tend to be less naive and more sophisticated. While that creates some opportunities, it also increases the challenges for the faculty and staff to keep up in this ever expanding world. Added concerns for most.

But for me, after reading all the posts and comments, I am most concerned about the attitude I sensed in many of the posts. Some sounded angry and hostile, - more like what Id expect from a public non-Christian school. Only a few indicated a desire to better understand and work with the school board. A couple seemed outright nasty and sarcastic.

Through the years, I have learned you catch more bees with honey than vinegar. My children helped me to understand WWJD. Jesus taught by beholding Him, we are changed. I can imagine that He is also concerned about the impact of video games on our lives. But, I am certain He is more upset about the lack of love expressed in some those posts. While He knows what is in our heart, others can only recognize our Christianity by the way we love one another. Does our love and empathy extend to those having differing opinions than ours? Website like this can be a positive force for what is good and right only if Christ-like concern is incorporated into our attitude and manner in dealing with others.

Gary Peterson, 63

WHAT????

2006-03-05T16:23:00.000-06:00

WHAT??? I just don't know where to start. I can almost see Satin laughing at how easy it was for him to make the Platte crumble. First, the staff members at platte valley are there for a reason. We ( the school board) hired them for the leadership and commitment to the Lord. Then when this major discussion about video games appears, we tell the staff to just do what they are told. Second, what about the students that are there now!!! Let alone all of the hundreds of previous students. How will this impact them??? I mean after all isn't that what Platte Valley is for-our youth. Are we showing them that when everyone else is doing it we should do it too???? But the funny thing is, from what I hear, most students don't even want video games. I know they would much rather have their boys dean back than to have video games. I mean this site was setup by an attending student. ( good job Mike I'm proud to say I was your teacher).
Third, I don't think the students have time for video games. The staff works hard to plan their activities and those activities are important to the school.
Fourth, What good can come of video games???
I think the school board needs to APOLOGIZE to their staff and then APOLOGIZE to the students. Then the decision should be left up to the staff on the viedo game policy. Trust me that staff only has the best intrust of the school in mind. They give their lives for that school. I'M saddened by the outcome of this crises.

Kim Wehling-Larsen
Graduate 1992 PROUD daughter of Linda wehling

personnel board meeting Sunday, March 5

2006-03-02T09:23:00.000-06:00

Notice: Platte Valley's personnel committee has scheduled a special meeting Sunday, March 5. Heavy topics will be discussed.

Support

2006-03-01T22:10:00.000-06:00

As I became aware of this website and read some of the posts I have become very saddened. Before I saw this site I had previous knowledge of this issue. But I believe there are bigger issues here than video games. I'm scared that Satan has been able to take something like video games and rip people apart. But, like I said I believe there is a bigger issue here.
I look back at my days in Academy with many fond memories. They were some of the best years of my life. But I also remember division. I remember at times students and staff having differences, I remember division between staff members, parents and staff, board members and staff. I at times myself had conflict with certain staff members and sided with others. The problem is even Christian people who are striving to be Biblical followers of God have different views. Different views are not the issue here. It's ATTITUTE. How am I going to relate to those who are different then me? As I finish up my schooling at Union at plan on a career in pastoral ministry one of my biggest passions is Unity. I want to bring Unity to people, to churches or any other organization I work for. What God has impressed upon me is that Unity starts with me. Dr. Ed Allen recently preached at the church that I am student pastoring at. His sermon had much application for our modern lives. His sermon was this, "How to Change a Pick-Headed person. He preached on Matt.7:1-12. His point through the sermon was not how to change others, but that the change started with us. As I look back at my Academy experience and remember some of the staff that I did not see eye to eye with and left with ill feelings, I realize now that instead of thinking how they need to change, the change needs to start with me. I Pray that whatever side you are on that you would pray for humility in your life and that God would show you what you need to change.
Secondly, Jesus says in Matt. 5:43-47 that it is easy to love those who love you, but He commands us to love those who are our enemies. It's easy to align with those who have the same opinions as we do. It's easy to attack the other group and say nasty things about them. It's easy to say how terrible the board is or how terrible the staff is or how terrible the kids are. Its easy to hide behind a computer screen or get together with your friends or those who hold the same views as you and trash the opposition. I pray whether you are a board member, a staff member, a student, or anyone else who is concerned with this issue to look at everyone as Christ looks at us. As beings created by God that because of sin are imperfect and have faults. Before you criticize them and openly attack them and challenge how both sides are doing things, I challenge you to get on you knees and asked God to show you what you need to change about yourself and how you can help bring unity to this situation.
This quarter's lesson study has been about families and the family of God. It has given good incite on what needs to happen to our immediate families and the family of God, (churches, schools, etc.) in order for them to grow. If you have been studying your lesson this quarter you would have seen the quote by Ellen White on the top of page 67, Feb 21's lesson. "If pride and selfishness were laid aside. Five minutes would remove most difficulties." Whether you believe in Ellen White or think she is a false prophet you have to admit this is an insightful statement. I worked at summer camp this past summer and the lesson I learned the most is too often children are more mature than adults. I saw kids fight and minutes later apologize and were playing together, without adult intervention. But we as adults to often let our pride and selfishness and our own agendas control our decisions. Like I stated earlier, it is time for everyone involved to get on his or her knees and ask God for humility. Its time to quit pointing fingers and making judgments and look at what changes we need to make in our own lives. This is not a time for anyone to seek to fulfill there agenda but to do what is best for the students and the school as a whole.
Platte Valley was my school and still is my school. I will do anything to help it progress. I pray that selfish ambition and pride would be put aside. I will do anything I can to help the school and support both staff and board members. I will do what ever I can, while praying for humility and the guidance of my heavenly father to fight the devil and not let him tear our schools and churches apart. I pray that my focus would be on Christ and what He did for all men & woman, no matter who they are, how He hung himself on the cross and not how people are different then me. I hope and pray that all who read this feel the same way. If anyone would like to directly respond to this feel free to.
My email address is lrochholz@yahoo.com
Lee Rochholz Class of 99
"Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called sons of God." Matt. 5:9

EDITORS NOTE: Thank you Lee, I did what I could to put the post where you wanted it.

PVA Board - Get Ready To Be Held Responsible!

2006-03-01T18:50:00.000-06:00

I think it is GREAT that we now live in an era in history where a school
board has to be accountable for actions and decisions made and that we have
the internet and computers as a medium in which to express concerns about
such actions. I also am thankful that we can make administration accoutable
for those decisions if we so choose. YES!! This site is public!! The
administration can no longer dictate behind tightly closed doors while the
rest of us "tip-toe" around them. They will be held accountable. They will
be responsible for those decisions. SO, thank you to whoever started this
blogsite! Kudo's!!

I want to make an appeal to the school board members of Platte Valley
Academy to make a stand for the right. We need YOU (board members) who will
not be bought or sold, who in their inmost souls are true and honest, who do
not fear to call sin by its right name, whose conscience is as true to duty
as the needle to the pole, and who will stand for the right though the
heavens fall. (Ed 57.3 - paraphrased.)

I am calling upon you - PVA board members - to revisit this video game
issue. I am calling upon you to re-hire the boys dean, Phil Johnson, in
good terms, as he was previous to his departure. Phil's heart was burdened
when you (the board) told him to either enforce the video game policy or
"walk". Well, in good faith he chose to leave PVA a few weeks ago because
he couldn't bear the thought of regulating video games - already possessing
a stack of horrible, violent, sexually immoral and murderous games. He
wanted to be recorded in heaven as "taking a stand for the right - not being
afraid to call sin by it's right name." I talked with him and his wife a
few days before their departure. Thanks Phil. When you stand for the
right, you often stand alone. God bless you whereever the Lord has led
you!

I phoned several board members recently(I won't mention names so as to not
further incriminate the guilty) sharing my concern regarding this issue and
wanting to hear their side of this decision. "Do you play board games?" the
member asked. "Yes, not often, but sometimes." I said. "So when it
transfers from a board game to a computer screen, then what's wrong with
that? Why shouldn't that be allowed? All the students want to be able to
do is play checkers on their computer." ARE YOU KIDDING ME? You think that
the students are sitting around wishing they could play checkers on the
computer????? GET REAL!!! Phil Johnson already had a stack of video game
trash to prove that was not the case.

I love my PVA school. I spent 4 years there. I am NOT saddened by the
comments posted that are making the board accountable for this decision. I
am only saddened by those who are writing that are ignorate of what has
happened and nieve of the damaging effect of allowing these putrid video
games in God's school. Why don't you talk with some staff at PVA about how
the board treated them concerning this issue before posting your comments
and fully removing all doubt that you are ignorate and nieve? Get the
facts, folks. Phil Johnson didn't end his career over checkers being
allowed on the computer...

I want the PVA board to be held responsible. If you are going to loosely
make policy changes, without staff or dean input, then get ready to held
accountable.

PVA BOARD - Stand for the right! Do the right thing! REVISE THIS ISSUE!!
You have already caused irrepairable damage to the school. . . .

Regina Wehling-Gibson
1991 Graduate
Proud daughter of Linda Pruden-Wehling, faithful and dedicated staff member
for almost 20 years!

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Petition question

2006-03-01T13:15:00.000-06:00

Would it be possible for those of us who are concerned to have a the Petition emailed to us so that we can get signatures of others who share the same burden?
Monte '78'

please post TX

PVA Video Games

2006-03-01T12:55:00.000-06:00

As I read some of the letters I'm greatly saddened! I agree there are concerns on the issues of video games. However, I also know as Christians how we handle & channel our concerns are also a huge issue. Do we quit our churches too because we have differing opinions? However difficult & sensitive these issues are, unloving censure desecrates the school that we love & support. There are many other ways to accomplish goals. Has anyone thought of asking the board to meet again to address this issue? It sounds to me like they are already condemned! We need to pray for our leaders & let them know our concerns without personal criticism. Sometimes mistakes are made & we suffer the consequences. However, this website in my opinion openly states terrible statements concerning Adventist education. Does the public have access to this site? Satan can work from many different angles. I beg each one of you to take the imitative to research the process & approach the board with Christian love & concern for each other & our children.

Sincerely,

Nicole Johnson-Hamling

Class of "91"

State of Affairs

2006-03-01T07:20:00.000-06:00

MY! MY! MY!

A sad state of convoluted affairs it is when the only way to get a degree of accountability is as a last resort a student is driven to use his skills to set up a communication site as a clearinghouse to permit the free exchange of ideas. A huge thank you is due Mike for his willingness to step up!

Sometimes a power structure needs exposure to the daylight to allow the "public" a peek of routine protocol.

What a shame that the only way to try to get redress is to force the wound to burst its putrid contents into an open forum.

I think it would be appropriate for the educational leaders, Mr. Russell of the Union office and Mr. Castle of the conference office to set forth a defense of this "important" policy of including video games as an acceptable part of the educational experience at Platte Valley. They both heavily impact what is allowed on the board agenda and the decisions reached by the board. Certainly there would be strong academic, spiritual, social, moral and recreational considerations that could be laid before the constituents.

There are some are there not?

I understand the concept of the necessity of having allegience to a viable chain of command to maintain the operation of an institution. However it is equally imperative, especially in a Christian context, that the structure be sensitive to those affected by its decisions. God had a power structure and the power to dictate, but restraint was essential to its viability.

It appears that the issue was intentionally dealt with in a dictatorial manner. That usually results from questionable merit of the issue or for skirting the opposition. I trust that the board would be deeply concerned regarding the results of this action. I wonder however whether the concern will be over:

A--the results of the smooth swift action hitting

turbulence or

B--the way it was handled.

The choice is important. Concern for:

"B" --will bring changes.

"A" --further entrenchment of the present protocol.

A few years back I served on the board and endeavored to bring positive, creative, thoughtful ideas always referenced in the constituents I represented. As time passed by it became clear to me that the board often operated on what was "metered" to it by academy, conference, and union leadership. Other views didn't fit in. The need was for rubberstamps. I chose to leave. Evidently the ink pads haven't dried out yet.

I question whether existing protocol can change. The entrenchments are deep. Oh, some sort of oozing honey will drool forth, but the real cancer will still stink. The invigorating experience of a breath of fresh air implies that the stale air is blown aside. The need for fresh air in the structure is past due. Theoretically when one shoots himself in the foot it is painful. To those on the sideline it appears incredulous. To deny or pretend it didn't happened is sad.

I understand that at a public meeting an effort was made by one of our dedicated "servants" to downplay the issue to the extent of implying that some students simply desire to play checkers on the video games. If this is a legitimate attempt at damage control, it certainly displays the level of intelligence the constituency was perceived to have!

These kinds of "profound" discourses really lends merit to the importance of the Union level of leadership!

Is this the best that the Mid America Union can produce? Bring in the fresh air!

Hey, I have a very, very simple solution: buy'em checker boards!!!! That should please every position involved in the issue if the insightful statement was credible.

The board should be pleased it has personnel hired who desire to hold some lines against the relentless encroaching of new enticements.

PVA has served a lot of students well, ours among them. Hopefully the trend may continue.

Gale and Mary Wehling

Washington, Kansas

The Petition of Grievance

2006-02-28T11:41:00.000-06:00

The following is the full text of the petition. To sign, E-mail: mike.campbell@tconl.com with your Name and Contact Information.
If you think that it needs to be reworded just submit your suggestions to the same e-mail.

Petition of Grievance

A recent decision of the Platte Valley Academy school board has allowed computer games in the dormitories. This decision goes against the mission and philosophy on which the school has run for eighty-seven years.
We the signers of this petition disapprove of the recent action taken by the Platte Valley Academy school board concerning our school and wish that the issue be readdressed and that it be approached in a more Biblical light so that our school will retain the high moral standards for which it has been known. For eighty-seven years we have stood for and taught these standards and we wish to continue to support them.

The Petition

2006-02-27T13:16:00.000-06:00

I understand that there is a petition of some sort that we may add our names to in order to have the issue of video games allowed in the dorm re-looked at.

Where can I sign?

Jessica Scharffenberg

Union College Enrollment Advisor

402-304-6952

Editors note: The petition can be signed by e-mailing "mike.campbell@tconl.com" Just state that you want your neme added to the Petition. Include your name and contact information. Theank You.

PVA Concerns

2006-02-27T09:22:00.000-06:00

Hi Folks

As a concerned parent of a PVA student. I attended the PVA alumni meeting last evening at Piedmont Park SDA Church and was glad I did. Mr.Goodchild was there to answer any questions about what is going on at PVA. Platte Valley has many more concerns than just video games. The loss of some teachers and staff at the end of current school year, Housing remodeling problems, Dorm remodeling needs, Water well problems, A/C / Heating concerns, Etc. As a parent, these problems concern me greatly, but most of them are easily solved with time and money. You need a new (fill in the blank), get a grant or ask for donations, Hire a contractor, problem solved. Sorry Mr. Goodchild. I know I oversimplified the process, but time is short.

But maters of policy, politics, and personalities, well that is a whole other rattle snake roundup. When the three P's get involved, you are walking through a field of land mines. I have no idea who on the board brought up this idea. I am sure some good intentioned soul was convinced by some parent or student that this is a good idea. Well intended or good idea does not matter at all to me. The problem as I see it is that there was no following of procedure as to how to make this change in policy and the handbook. No notification to parents of the topic of change, nothing.When ever an issue of this type is handled in this way, an air of impropriety hangs over it as though this was clandestine or subversion. I believe the board, if for no other reason than to remove the air of impropriety, needs to reopen this issue to a general meeting of all concerned. If the board is not so inclined, then maybe the board needs to be examined.

Christ tells us to not be occupied with the worries of life. Our kids need to be focusing on Him. Not holed up in their dorm rooms playing games with a no personal interaction with their classmates. If you want to play chess or checkers, grab a board and game pieces and head to the day room and get a real opponent there.

Paul Jensen
Transit Dispatcher/Drivers Trainer
UNL Parking and Transit Services
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
Lincoln,Ne 68588-0161
(402) 472-9467
pjensen2@unlnotes.unl.edu

new topic

2006-02-26T23:13:00.000-06:00

New topic for PVA blog - What is the main issue?

I was recently made aware of this particular issue in regards to the video game policy at PVA. First of all I would like to say that I am thankful that PVA is dear to so many hearts. I too am concerned with the well being of not only the institution but the students and the faculty. As I was reading through the various postings, I saw two major issues present. The first is the issue of how this policy of allowing video games was passed. Many seemed to be concerned that the proper procedure for allowing this policy to be passed was not followed. Is there anyone who can attest to whether or not this is the case? What is the proper procedure and perhaps there needs to be an evaluation of this procedure.

The second issue I see, is that many people feel that video games are a question of morality. I am not going to judge whether or not playing video games is evil, recreational, or beneficial; however, I am going to point out that they exist and are a very prominent aspect of living in this country. I believe that Platte Valley Academy and our other Adventist Institutions should not only teach students about Jesus, or only teach them to read and write, but also equip them with the practical knowledge of how live this life. They must be taught moderation and balance in everything. This includes video games as well as dating, competitive sports and many other things. To just ignore these things, would be like closing our eyes tightly, putting our fingers in our ears, and shouting "LA LA LA" - it creates a lot of noise but it doesn't make these things go away. To summarize, I will say this, teach them in a "controlled" environement how to be moderate in all things and this is what they will practice when they are on their own.

Chawnta Durham - Class of 2002

The Next Step.

2006-02-23T15:25:00.000-06:00

Due to the amount discontent over this issue, there is now a Petition of Grievance going. To get your name on the petition just use the e-mail the editor link at the top of the page.

Questions, and Teacher tribute!

2006-02-21T23:52:00.000-06:00

I must say I am very disappointed in PVA's board. It is my understanding that video games was first addressed and passed at a board meeting with no one else's input. Was it even on the agenda?? Who first wanted it? Why not go through ad council first? Aren't handbook issues to be addressed through ad council in the summer?

In most places of business there is a chain of command when change is wanted. Why was this not followed? Is it really the Boards place to make policy changes with out first consulting the staff who must implement it! I would like to challenge the board members as to why opinions of others didn't matter. I believe the goal was for an honest debate, but our board couldn't let that happen.

It appears that when our school board was aware of the firestorm over videos they didn't even want to revisit it and mocked those that had differing opinions! Has our school board become so close minded that they can not be open to the fact that they may have jumped the gun?

I'm the first to understand that our board deals with some heavy issues as finances are tight, staffing difficult to fill , etc. Board members give up of their time to serve the school they love as well. Theirs is not an easy position. On the other hand, neither is being a teacher. Our teachers, many of them for decades, have served this school with love and tireless devotion. They commit to a life of living in a glass bubble to be scrutinized when the option is to work a 9-5 job and not be accountable or available at all hours to whom they serve. That's what our teacher do--serve. They are not merely employees that sign a paycheck. They are missionaries. The have taught me and my parents and hopefully my children. They seek the goals of preparing youth for education, success and salvation. They deserve to be heard, all of them.

I would like to thank the teachers and staff at PVA. Yours is not an easy job. Because of people like you I had the chance to go to a school with vision and character. Platte Valley was more than a school that gave me a diploma. It was my home, and it's teachers,staff and students were my family. PVA sparked my desire to see our church to the end. It taught me that being Adventist wasn't a religion, but a mission. Thank you

Chere Ray Wehling, class of 1993

dtr of Bill Ray and Jeanne Risse Ray, class of 1970

Video games

2006-02-20T22:57:00.000-06:00

In November the board of Platte Valley instituted a new policy that was discussed and passed in one setting.

1) "Those who conscientiously serve God will be accused of rebellion." Maranatha The Lord Is Coming by E.G. White, 1976, p. 197.

2) "A man's foes shall be they of his own household." Matt. 11:36.

3) "As the storm approaches, a large class who have professed faith in the third angel's message, but have not been sanctified through obedience to the truth, abandon their position and join the bands of the opposition. By uniting with the world and partaking of its spirit, they have come to view matters in nearly the same light; and when the test is brought, they are prepared to choose the easy, popular side. ...They become the most bitter enemies of their former brethren." Evangelism by E.G. White, p. 224.

4) "...the Lord has shown me would take place just before the close of probation. Every uncouth thing will be demonstrated. ...The senses of rational beings will become so confused they they cannot be trusted to make right decisions. ...This is the invention of Satan to cover up his ingenious methods for making of none effect the pure, sincere, elevating, ennobling, sanctifying truth for this time...A bedlam of noise shocks the senses and perverts that which if conducted aright might be a blessing." 1 Selected Messages, by E.G. White, p. 336, 337 or Maranatha The Lord Is Coming, p. 234.

5) "It remains, while the sinners in Zion will be sifted out - the chaff separated from the procious wheat. This is a terrible ordeal, but nevertheless it must take place. None but those who have been overcoming by the blood of the Land and the word of their testimony will be found with the loyal and true, without spot or stain of sin, without guile in their mouths...The remnant that purifys their souls by obeying the truth gather strength from the trying process, exhibiting the beauty of holiness amid the surrounding apostasy." Maranatha The Lord Is Coming, by E.G. White, p. 203 or 7Bible Commentary, p. 977.

6) "We cannot step off the foundation that God has established." Maranatha The Lord Is Coming, by E.G. White, p. 203 or 2 Selected Messages, p. 290.

7) "The church, soon to enter upon her most severe conflict, ...The confederacy of evil will be stirred with power from beneath, and Satan will cast all the reproach possible upon the chosen ones whom he cannnot deceive and delude with his satanic inventions and falsehoods." Maranatha The Lord Is Coming, by E.G. White, p. 203 or Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers., p. 20.

8) "Those who apostatize in time of trial will bear false witness and betray their own brethren, to secure their own safety. They will tell where their brethren are concealed, putting wolves on their track. Christ has warned us of this, that we may not be surprised at the cruel, unnatural course pursued by friends and relatives." Maranatha The Lord Is Coming, by E.G. White, p. 197 or Review and Hearld, Dec. 20, 1898.

9) "Friends will prove treacherous, and will betray us. Relatives, deceived by the enemy, will think they do God service in opposing us and putting forth the utmost efforts to bring us into hard places. hoping we will deny our faith. But we may trust our hand in the hand of Christ amid darkness and peril." Maranatha The Lord Is Coming, p. 197 or E.G. White Manuscript 21, 1889.

by Cavalier Connection Auto Sales, Loren Wehling, Hastings 402-751-2400 2/20/06

What Are They Trying To Prove?

2006-02-17T15:11:00.000-06:00

I don't quite understand the big deal, just keep the video games out of the school.

Think of it like this: the students can walk all over the faculty and staff with their inappropriate music and who knows what else, so they know that they can get away with the inappropriate games. They have done this before, so why haven't some of the faculty, staff and others figured this out. Students are still at the age where they see how far they can successfully push the limits.

No matter what the GPA is, no one is going to listen. Those who have low grades can have friends in high places that can and will let them play the games. They already do this with music and other distractions.

Even though Christ knew He was going to die a painful death like Satan wanted; doesn't mean that the deans know that the students are going to behave like the faculty and staff want them too.

Is having video games in school actually necessary? Is sitting in front of a computer playing mindless games suppose to support and enhance our education and way of thinking? Sure we may be the next generation of computer geniuses, but what about the other fields of education such as nursing, theology, music, etc.?

If our school actually belongs to God, then why set up this mindless and lifeless idol to distract the students from being at their highest potential? Are video games that essential to our education?

What are we trying to teach out students? Are we trying to teach them how to think on their own and how to manage their time? It may happen that a student will learn how to manage their time on the computer, but that is one of how many?

What is trying to be said when video games are allowed in school? Are the academies in the Kansas/Nebraska Conference trying to become more worldly in order to get more students? If this is the case, why spend all this money for a christian education when a student can save all sorts of it, eat homemade food, sleep in their own bed and play their own video games while being under their own roof.

How can the faculty and staff know that one game is ok and another is not when they look the same. The students did this with their burned cds so it is possible with their games.

What is this decision of having video games in the boarding schools trying to prove? Who is going to be lifted up here by this decision here?

~Madison Cobb

Class of 2005

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Is PVA God's Still School?

2006-02-16T15:35:00.000-06:00

Isn’t it great that we live in a country that allows a free flow of ideas – even words that that may not “condoned” by the institution.

It has been interesting; over the past few days to read the postings here and review the dialog taking place on this site. It has also been interesting to note that with all this expression of ideas about this policy, the entire dialog has been taking place and no one has clarified exactly what this policy allows or does not allow. One could assume from some postings that there was very little restriction. To help facilitate an understanding of what the board voted, here is the policy as implemented at PVA:

Video Game Guidelines

1. GPA Requirement

a. 2.5 GPA with no D, F, or I’s

2. Student is responsible for who plays on their computer – if a non-eligible person is playing will result in discipline or loss of computer. 1^st offense will result in one month loss, 2^nd offense loss of computer for the year.

3. Types of Games

a. Only “E” level games will be reviewed for approval, others not allowed and not reviewed

b. No “First person shooter” games

4. Students who have demonstrated responsibility by

a. No major discipline in past 3 months

b. “A” in attendance

5. Computers in the dorm are a privilege and ANY computer in the dorm must be open to the deans and/or administration to review. If the computer has passwords, the dean/administration must have a copy of all passwords.

6. Dedicated game machines (i.e. X-Box, Playstation, etc.) are not allowed – only games on a computer.

7. Students who spend an excessive amount of time on computer games as defined by the administration may have their privileges revoked or limited.

8. Games may not be played

a. During Sabbath hours

b. During regular school day hours, 7 am to 4pm and study hall, unless with specific permission from the dean (farm/dairy workers).

c. After lights out

In this world it is so easy to make judgments of our brothers and sisters from our own perspective, and it is certainly human nature to assume that our personal perspective is correct. This is the very issue Christ had to deal continually during his time on earth living with the people he had created and given that ability to make choices. Isnt’ it amazing that, knowing they would make the choice to kill him, he still not only gave us that wonderful privilege and responsibility, but also still came to sacrifice his life to a sinner like me. And yet, knowing all this, he responded to them always in love and care.

Friends, let us never forget that, even though He has entrusted toe the operation of Platte Valley Academy to human agents, this school – as with all of our schools is most definitely “His School.” One cannot work around any of our schools for very long and not see His hand guiding the school – even when we may disagree with how His human agents operate the school at times.

Please join me, and many of our members in Kansas and Nebraska. Every day these people pray the Lord will continue to lead at Platte Valley Academy – along with Enterprise, Midland, College View and the 17 elementary schools across this conference as we try each day to help young people learn to make positive choices and grow in their personal relationship with Jesus Christ. And since it is His School and he cares deeply about it, if you feel the board made the incorrect decision on this policy, pray that the Lord will influence the board members to make the necessary changes. Certainly the prayers of the saints will have more power on the decision making process than casting anonymous stones at the school an those of us who work in the conference office. (Ouch! Those words do hurt occasionally! :)

In Christian Love,

Chuck Castle

High score

2006-02-15T21:39:00.000-06:00

First of all, I would like to say that I wish I knew who posted the
article "Please Read This", so I could shake their hand and thank them
properly.

Secondly, I wish I knew who posted the article "Do PVA Students Really Care?",
so I could (explicit content deleted). Let me assure you all that the few
students that have been posting on this site DO care!! It pains me greatly to
see what this school has reduced itself down to. When I look at what this
school has become, I think to myself, "I might as well be going to public
school. At least there it's free and I get to sleep in my own bed at night."

When I look at things here, a couple of Bible verses come to mind. The first
is Luke 21:34-36 which says: "Be careful not to let yourselves become occupied
with too much feasting and drinking and with THE WORRIES OF THIS LIFE, or that
Day may suddenly catch you like a trap. For it will come upon all people
everywhere on earth. BE ON WATCH AND PRAY ALWAYS THAT YOU WILL HAVE THE
STRENGTH TO GO SAFELY THROUGH ALL THOSE THINGS THAT WILL HAPPEN AND TO STAND
BEFORE THE SON OF MAN." And the second verse is Romans 12:2, which reads: "Do
not conform yourselves to the standards of this world, but let God transform
you inwardly by a complete change of your mind. Then you will be able to know
the will of God-what is good and is pleasing to Him and is perfect."

That's what this school is supposed to stand for, is it not? Focusing on Jesus
and His soon return, not with getting the high score. Don't get me wrong, I'm
not saying that video/computer games are evil and wrong and that if you play
them you are going to burn in Hell. That's not what I'm saying at all. I
myself enjoy playing games. BUT NOT HERE!! NOT WHERE THE FOCUS OF THIS SCHOOL
IS SUPPOSED TO BE ON JESUS' PLAN FOR OUR LIVES!
Now don't go saying that I'm a perfect Christian either, because anyone who
knows me or has even heard of me can tell you that I'm not. In fact, I'm
probably farther away from it than any other Christian I know.

All I'm saying is that if the only reason people are coming here is because
it's 'safer than public school', then either go to public school or go
somewhere else because this school is supposed to be DIFFERENT. This school is
supposed to be SPECIAL!

I want to close by saying that I commend Mr. Johnson for standing up for what
he believes in, even though it cost him his job. I can safely say that if it
would have been me in his position, I would have done the same thing without
regret. I just hope and pray that when Jesus comes back that I'm stand there
ready and waiting and not busy trying to get the high score.

~Matt

Please Understand

2006-02-15T12:20:00.000-06:00

Reading this list makes me sad.

I try to pray every day for all the students at Platte Valley Academy. I
pray that they will be filled with the Holy Spirit and desire to Love God
more. I pray that they will have a clearer understanding of how much God
loves them.

This issue is not about politics, it isn�t about kids being brats, turning
from God, or the school going to �hell�. This, from what I can see is a
school progressing. There are a lot of terrible things in the world today
that we need to teach our kids to avoid. I believe that lots of books out
there are very dangerous. There are books that teach violence or that
include very graphic sexual content. However we do not limit reading to
text books on our campuses. There are terrible shows on TV and terrible
movies with the same content that should not be watched by our kids.
However we have TV�s on campus and we have movie nights (all screened to
keep content safe). Music is another issue I saw listed. Music is very
powerful for good and evil.

All of these issues are very hard for kids to understand during teenage
years. More than being told what they can and can�t read/watch/play/listen
too we need to teach them how to make these decisions.

From my understanding of what is currently happening at our school. Video
games, as most people consider them, are not allowed. Some pre-reviewed
computer games are allowed to students that are not having trouble in school
at certain hours of the day. This sounds lots like what I would want to see
at a Christian home. Children need time to do school work, they need
activity, they need time for spiritual focus and they sometimes need time to
relax and have recreation. Recreation is different to different people.
Some people play board games, some watch TV, some listen to music and some
play games on the computer. Typically none of these activities are
�productive� and should not take up large amounts of people time, but they
are a part of our lives today. Without some form or recreation we can get
sick and live unbalanced lives.

The principle behind staying away from the worlds violence and other
dangerous influences need to be applied across all different mediums.

I beg those who are so upset at this issue to carefully think of what they
are doing to the school, to the students and to the work of God. The devil
would love to see us all upset about anything as long as he can keep us from
focusing on God and praying for our kids. Please help me pray for our kids
and the decisions they make and pray for our school. Our school and its
leaders are trying very hard to create a �home like� place for our kids to
live while they attend our school. Most of the kids that come here couldn�t
go to an Adventist school while living at home which is why we board.

Do PVA Students really care ???

2006-02-13T16:31:00.000-06:00

Do PVA Students really care or is this just some ploy to antagonize
those of us who have to make decisions. In my experience most of these
kids couldn't come up with an original idea if it was lit up in neon.
You need people to make the hard decisions. Its not easy sitting on a
board, when you kids get older you will understand. Right now we (The
Board) are in control and our decisions will be upheld, Some day when
these children are all grown up and have children of their own, they
too will will understand how difficult these things are. Don't make a
mountain out of a mole hill.

EDITOR: This post has been edited for grammar.

About Your Schools

2006-02-13T14:41:00.000-06:00

Why are there boarding Academys?

Face it, It's a place to send kids because parents are tired of putting
up with the little brats. Its like a real expensive 24 hour daycare.
Some just can't afford it. So its not surprising that rules change and
standards get lowered a bit. Kids are not stupid so when they realize
that there is more freedom at home than at a boarding academy they want
to be at home, the rules will change out of necessity. The driving force
behind this is parents do not want the kids at home. They want them out
of the house as soon as possible, being catered to so that they will
quit B**ching and loose their desire to come home. This is why you find
the ratio of teens killing parents is almost nonexistent in Adventist
homes. Why you say, cause they get rid of the kids, before problems at
home become terminal, by sending them to these fancy schools. Then when
they hit college they stand back and say, where are the kids, did they
call this month. Don't laugh, by the time the kids are in college, the
parents are so use to not hearing from them that they can go for months
and not question this. My child is at home and because of my first hand
experience, he may never go to one of these schools.

Besides that these places are closing so fast I may not have that option
if I were to change my mind.

Forgive Me

2006-02-11T23:35:00.000-06:00

EDITOR: This is a letter that was sent to me today for posting. Due to size you must Click Here for the PDF. I feel that this is well written and worth reading.

Welcome from the editor

2006-02-11T23:25:00.000-06:00

Welcome to the Platte Valley Academy Forum. Please feel free to express your views.
I welcome you to post to the forum by clicking on the second link in the "Links" list. This will post straight to the page. Comments may be posted by clicking on the "number of comments" at the bottom of every topic. Comments will be up within 24- hours

All viewpoints are welcome.

Letter From the Staff

2006-02-11T21:04:00.000-06:00

EDITOR: This letter was brought to my attention through various sources. I felt that it went along with the "ideas and events concerning PVA" theme of this forum so I posted it. Thank you for bringing it to my attention.

P.S. Click on the image to read it.

Please read this

2006-02-11T18:55:00.000-06:00

As I sit writing this I look back at this morning. When I first learned that PVA is allowing Video games at school.

If I had been told this 3 or so years ago, I would have been appalled. Not anymore. This is just another sign that PVA and other Adventist schools are going down the road to perdition. (Ok, maybe not that bad. But when you compromise on something like this, you'll compromise on something else, and something else, and something else.)

Already the music is an issue at PVA and other Academies, but I can understand how hard that is to control. But here, this is a thing that The Board Could have stopped, that the parents could have stopped, and so far the only ones who are fighting back are some Teenagers who seem to be the only ones who know what's right for our youth.

Shame you Conference people, who sat and votes "yes". What were you thinking?

Conference person #1 "Well, maybe if I do this the folks will stop bugging me."

Conference person #2 "It's only video games! Who cares if they have shooting, cussing, or other mature themes."

Conference person #3 "I just want to last till I retire."

I wasn't very surprised when I heard the news. Not at all.

Where are the Christian schools that sprung up years ago? The people who started PVA (if they could) would be rolling in their graves at these recent developments.

Are we such Hypocrites?

As Adventists we pride ourselves in Following all the commandments, knowing what really happens when you die, eating healthfully, dressing modestly, and schooling our children in a christian enviroment and atmosphere-WAIT!

Let me tell you what I see.

I see kids driving to school at CVA and shutting off the sounds of heavy metal and rap music from their car radio before picking up their Bibles and backpacks and heading off to "Academy".

I see kids playing cards, listening to questionable music, drinking and doing drugs.

At "Academy".

Why the parentheses you ask? Because it's all a joke. If the Catholic and other protestent churches were to call us on the carpet they would laugh and say, "What a bunch of Hypocrites".

It's all a joke! It's all fake!

Imagine 5 or more years from now.

Public Schooler: So you go to your churches' academy right? I bet it's like so strict, do you have to wear uniforms?

SDA Academy kid: No, we can wear pretty much what we want.

PS: I bet they don't let you play video games and listen to the music you want do they?

SDAAK: Actually they do.

PS: Well I bet you can't have caffeine or meat in your school right?

SDAAK: Actually (remember I said 5 or more years from now) they let us eat beef and chicken and some fish. We also have a soda machine. And they make the greatest frappachinos.

PS: Soo..basically, your school is just like mine only way more expensive?

SDAAK: Yeah man, that's like the only downside. We are soo going to complain about that!

You see? What's next ppl? WHAT'S NEXT? I am ashamed of the people who whine and complain and then even more the people who thought up this proposal and launched it.

This only proves to the kids that if you whine and complain and whine some more, cry to mommy and daddy, and then whine again, that YOU WILL GET WHAT YOU WANT!

Since I am a Christian, I won't do what my instincts tell me, which is to march up to them and say "GO TO ____!"

But, they actually can't go there, since they are our PASTORS and CONFERENCE PEOPLE and SDA CHRISTIAN STUDENTS!

I have totally given up on the Adventist school system.

My older brother, left the church as a result of it.

He had grown up in an Adventist home somewhat, gone to Broken Arrow ranch quite often, to church as well, he even went to an Academy. Campion. But that didn't last after the way the faculty and students treated him. His "hall moniter" confiscated his brand new tape deck and color tv and even when my brother left the school, they couldn't give his stuff back because "something had happened to it".

A teacher stole his dress shirts.

After that experience, he went to public school for the last of his highschool years.

Then he went to Union College.

Union College.

The college that we in the KS-NE conference make so much of, the "It's so wonderful" school.

Bull pucky.

In a time when my brother was having some problems and questioning his faith, he watched as his fellow students got wasted and drank like fish friday night, only to get up on sabbath morning and give their testimonies and preach sermons.

(I only can hope that their hangovers were bloody painful.)

He had a professor who openly talked about her sex life to her students.

Needless to say, my brother abandonded the Adventist Faith.

He found it too hypocritical.

Now he's a nobody (in terms of Religion.) An Agnostic, or Atheist, only he believes in God so I'm not sure what to say. Except that he's not Adventist anymore.

If I don't see him in Heaven I'll blame him some, sure, but I'll also blame all the hypocrites who helped him down the way.

At union college, they now have a coffee bar. "But it's decaf!" the yuppies yell, well frankly my dear I don't give a darn. Next it will be caffienated with the choice of abstaining or not.

Most of the young pastors and teachers wives wear big diamond wedding rings.

Some adventist girls wear jewlery.

Our teenagers most popular exscuse is "Well rebekah had a nose ring!"

I don't care what you do at home, if you do pot, drink, wear nipple rings, play violent video games and listen to heavy metal and rap, or even if you make out with your gay lover.

JUST DON'T DO IT AT ACADEMY!!!!!! NOT AT A SCHOOL THAT WAS IN THE BEGINNING CONSECRATED FOR THE USE OF HELPING TO KEEP THE FAITH WITH OUR YOUTH AND TELLING THE STORY OF JESUS! NOT AT A CHRISTIAN SCHOOL!

Why should we pay an arm and a leg to go to such a wishy-washy hypocritcal not that different from Public school school? WHY?

When PVA closes.

I will laugh.

Long and hard.

Laugh at all the hypocrites.

-Anonymous

Conference and Board offices

2006-02-10T20:20:00.000-06:00

In my opinion people should not hold an office on our school board or in our conference unless they are willing to lose that position standing for what is right.

Who's school is this???

2006-02-10T18:14:00.000-06:00

I understand that this is not God's school anymore, At least according to our Education Superintendant. Well then how is it still associated with the Seventh-Day Adventist Church. If this is God's church then shouldn't our schools be his too?

Video Game Policy.

2006-02-10T01:39:00.000-06:00

OK guys, this is how i see it. Having computer games at home is fine.
Having computer games at a SDA school where the focus is Jesus' soon
coming, is not. i have noticed that the more this school becomes slack
with its rules, the more enrollment goes down. personally, i think we
have begun to flush God down the toilet. i mean, there is little to no
spirituality left here. ill write some more later.
-Matt

Computer games and other concerns.... Monte Campbell

2006-02-10T01:25:00.000-06:00

I am writing as a concerned parent.
The thought of allowing video games in our school is something I
prefer not to see, hand held or otherwise. The fact that the students
are allowed to have stereos is enough. The music choices made by
students is difficult to control, now with the introduction of computers
to the dorm rooms getting them to do home work rather than play video
games or watching a DVD could be next to impossible.
I myself have been in several rooms and only once have I heard music
that I thought was appropriate, many students are playing secular music
on the sabbath. I have been asked by several students to look at their
computers to see if I could optimize the system for better performance.
I have found inappropriate games and music on every system to this
point. I know that the deans are confiscating this contraband as they
find it.
I made my sons purchase their own computer systems with the
understanding that if they were misused, the machine would be removed.
Other criteria such as staying off of the D, F, I list and having all
assignments turned in must also be met to keep the systems. I feel that
having radios, stereos and refrigerators etc. is a stretch. Students
really do not need to have these devices in their rooms either. The
school cafeteria supples all that a student need for meals, each dorm
has a kitchen and the recreation period and other school activities
provide the social atmosphere that is needed.
I know that most students are guilty on all counts when it comes to
this. I also know, as a parent, that to erase games and censor their
music will just make them go underground and get illegal copies from
their friends and hide their contraband in some obscure directory or on
a separate drive that is not always detectable. I tell the students that
they are getting old enough to start making their own decisions but,
whatever the school decides is law a and that they will conform to any
and all rules.
Christian education is a sacrifice for the teachers as well as the
parents. I leave it up to the school to make the rules, not the parents.
The parents should have the job of standing behind the school in full
support. This is directed not only at my family but at every family with
a student attending our fine institution. PVA has a good reputation and
I would be ashamed to to let the complaints of a few students, influence
their family's to dictate what is or is not allowed in our school.
Computers and other devices are not needed at the sacrifice of a quality
education. Yes this is the school of today for the leaders of tomorrow,
but right now these young leaders need to learn how to lead which means
concentrating on their studies and Christian values. They can play in
cyberspace later.

Thank You,

Monte J. Campbell '78'