In August 2024, Mary White, LS Discovery teacher, Stephanie Morgan, Assistant Head of Lower School and PYP Coordinator, and Primer teacher Grace Toler applied for a Daniel Mickel grant. Ms. Toler’s vision was the creation of a monarch waystation for the existing Primer Garden, while Ms. White and Ms. Morgan sought to create a second garden to serve all Lower School students.

But securing the funds was just the beginning. In the same way seeds take root and grow, the garden project became something even larger and more beautiful than they could have imagined. 

First came the formation of the 3rd grade gardening group, which started in February and meets once a week during lunch. Then came US Science teacher Paulette Unger and some of her students who helped the students collect soil samples in collaboration with the Master Gardeners from Clemson University. “They helped us figure out where the garden should go, what to plant, and what plants we should include for the butterfly waystation,” says Ms. Morgan. “We all learned a lot.”

From there, the CCES Maintenance team cleared space and built four rectangular containers for the gardens. During their weekly meetings, the garden club grabbed shovels and donned t-shirts and filled the containers with soil, put in dividers, and planted the seeds. 

Robyn Liau, who serves on the LS Parents Panel as the PYP parent representative, was involved from the start, working alongside Ms. White, Ms. Morgan, and her son Henry in the gardening group. It was Ms. Liau who had the idea to try to tie the garden to Earth Day. “She reached out to an artist in North Myrtle Beach, Jim Swaim, who does these amazing environmental sculptures that highlight the issue of plastic litter within our communities,” says Ms. Morgan. “He actually did the first rabbit on the Swamp Rabbit Trail.”

Having never worked with a school before, Mr. Swaim jumped at the opportunity. “So then we  collaborated with Director of the Arts Katie Leckenbusch and the CCES Arts Guild on funding to bring him here,” says Ms. Morgan. “It still amazes me how many people in our community made all of this happen. And, in some ways, the evolution was just so natural it felt almost effortless.” 

Mr. Swaim was scheduled to come for the last week of April, while the students learned more about recycling, the effects of plastics on wildlife, and the art of sculpture. “And then our April book selection for PYP and Pajamas, was Soar, which is the story of a hummingbird trying to find its way and ultimately soaring into the world,” says Ms. Morgan. “And on the cover was this beautiful red-throated hummingbird, so we knew exactly what we wanted Mr. Swaim to create for our garden.” 

Every single 3rd grader was able to participate, and the Primers gathered the tops off of plastic bottles to fill the hummingbird’s belly. Mr. Swaim fills the bellies of all of his sculptures with plastic as a reminder of where our discarded plastic often ends up. 

On May 6, prior to the LS Art Show, CCES had a small dedication service for the garden, which was also a celebration of the breadth of collaboration that brought the project to life. From the vision and commitment of our LS teachers to the generosity and support of the Daniel Mickel Foundation and the CCES Arts Guild; from the passion of our our parent volunteers to the partnerships with US science students, Clemson Master Gardeners, and visiting artist Jim Swaim; from the hard work of our CCES Maintenance team and the curious minds of our LS students who were always wanting to learn more; the LS garden blossomed into a tangible symbol of how truly special the CCES experience is for all of us. 

“I think for me, this project has been the perfect display of the community here,” says Ms. Morgan. “This is what education is all about – the interdisciplinary ties, the curiosity and collaboration. It is really what makes learning so authentic, and we are so lucky to have that here.”

Christ Church Episcopal School experiences have prepared graduating seniors for whatever comes next and to make a positive difference in the world. Each week, we will put the spotlight on a graduating senior from the Class of 2025. We hope you enjoy getting to know these amazing CCES students!

With a résumé that spans academic excellence, artistic talent, and meaningful service, Bella Ludkowski has made her mark on CCES in more ways than one. A dedicated dancer, driven scholar, and compassionate leader, Bella has spent her years at Christ Church Episcopal School embracing every opportunity to grow. 

Since joining CCES as a freshman, Bella has immersed herself in academics, activities, and service. An IB Diploma candidate, AP Scholar with Honor, and National Merit Commended Student, Bella has consistently pushed herself in the classroom, balancing a demanding academic schedule with a deep curiosity and love of learning.

Her favorite classes include IB Psychology and IB English, where she’s found both intellectual challenge and supportive communities. “In Mrs. Bussey’s class, we can talk about anything,” Bella says, “but it always circles back to the curriculum in a way that sticks.” She credits her teachers with helping her understand the value of truly learning concepts - rather than memorizing facts - a mindset that has helped her excel in her toughest subjects, including AP Calculus BC.

Outside of school, Bella is a dedicated dancer, training every day in ballet, jazz, contemporary, and lyrical at DanceArts Greenville. She has performed in over 25 shows, including annual Nutcracker performances with the Carolina Ballet Theatre and school musicals. She also competed in the Youth America Grand Prix through DanceArts Greenville’s DAYCO program. Dance has been her lifelong passion, one that has taught her discipline, resilience, and the joy of expression.

Bella has also been an active member of the Cavalier community. She’s participated in Crafts for a Cause, Spanish Club, and the Prom Committee - where she helped raise over $8,000 and plan last year’s dance. She’s also mentored younger students through the FEMME program and completed a summer internship at Lincoln Energy Solutions.

What sets Bella apart is her ability to blend creativity with social consciousness. She once launched a baking TikTok account to raise money for a local food pantry, and her research into plant-based pesticides reflected both her love of biology and her concern for sustainability. As one teacher noted in a letter of recommendation, “Bella leads with quiet confidence, empathy, and an unwavering drive to grow.”

Next fall, Bella will attend Tufts University, where she plans to study biotechnology. She was drawn to Tufts’ perfect balance of community, research, and exploration - and she looks forward to continuing her studies in graduate school.

When asked what the world needs more of, Bella answered, “Education - knowledge is the only thing someone can’t take from you.” It’s a fitting reflection from a student who has made the most of every opportunity, while always staying true to her values. 

Congratulations, Bella! Your grace, dedication, and spirit will leave a lasting legacy at CCES—and we can't wait to see all that you accomplish next.

Just for fun!
Who is someone who has greatly influenced your life? My ballet teacher, Mrs. Erica.
If you could relive any CCES experience, what would it be? Anytime my friends and I took Chapel Laps during class or when we were decorating the Poinsett Club the night before Prom. 
Tell us something people probably don’t know about you: I’m currently working on perfecting my matcha skills.  
If you could try anything and know you wouldn’t fail, what would it be? Go on Jeopardy! Or open up a bakery.

Christ Church Episcopal School experiences have prepared graduating seniors for whatever comes next and to make a positive difference in the world. Each week, we will put the spotlight on a graduating senior from the Class of 2025. We hope you enjoy getting to know these amazing CCES students!

When you first meet Liam Weston, he probably won’t be the loudest person in the room - but don’t mistake his quiet for shyness. He’s the kind of person who listens first, thinks deeply, and then says something that makes you stop and go, “Wow.” When asked about Liam, one of his teachers shared that “His knowledge is expansive and detailed, and he is rarely stumped by any question posed in class.” Let’s just say there’s a reason his teachers and counselors call him one of the most brilliant students they’ve ever met.

Liam is the real deal: thoughtful, kind, and incredibly smart. He’s the kind of student who not only takes the most challenging classes (we’re talking 14 AP and IB courses, when the average is 5.5!) He once spent over 21 hours creating a detailed, historically accurate battle scene video in Minecraft for a Latin project when a drawing simply would’ve done. He did it because he wanted to learn something new and bring the past to life. He cares about exploring big questions - like how AI works and how technology can impact the world.

This fall, Liam’s heading to Yale (his top choice!), where he plans to dive into computer science with interests in artificial intelligence, game design, and digital creativity. “I chose Yale primarily because of its endless opportunities. Yale is very dedicated to providing undergrads with advanced research opportunities, which is very important to me.” 

Liam’s teachers describe him as, “pleasant in class” and “the kind of student teachers enjoy teaching” noting that “his classmates appreciate his contributions to discussions and his lovely sense of humor.” Whether it's in the classroom, at summer camp, or on the cross country trail, Liam shows up for people - with empathy, respect, and a great sense of humor (make sure to ask him about the silver skeleton bow he once wore to English class).

But what really sets Liam apart is that he’s as compassionate as he is driven. He volunteers with “Sunday Dinner with a Twist,” a local organization serving people experiencing homelessness, and he lights up when he talks about making someone’s day better, even in small ways. He's also been a mentor and counselor for younger students, a supportive teammate on the cross country team, and a steady presence in clubs like the Academic Team and Anime Club. (He even played viola in orchestra until his schedule became overloaded with advanced coursework!)

When asked who inspires him, Liam mentioned Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. highlighting his widely known quote “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that.” Liam has also been inspired by Red Martin, who runs Sunday Dinner with a Twist. Red often uses the phrase “love with no stipulations,” which Liam says he tries to embody. And that is who Liam is: a compassionate person who sees the world not only as it is—but as it could be—and he is already working to get us there!

Because being brilliant is great. But being brilliant and kind? That’s something special.

Just for fun!
If you could relive any CCES experience, what would it be? Running a 5-kilometer race in under 20 minutes in my 10th grade year of Cross Country. (even though it was very painful)
What is something this world could use more of? Empathy.
Tell us something people probably don’t know about you. I really love traveling and want to experience different cultures and parts of the world.
If you could try anything and know you wouldn’t fail, what would it be? Learn another language.

Lacrosse has steadily gained traction across South Carolina since the South Carolina High School League officially recognized it as a varsity sport in 2009. In the Upstate, the sport has exploded in popularity thanks to its fast pace, physicality, and high-energy gameplay that make it as fun to watch as it is to play. And with the introduction of consistent, year-round programming and increased access, lacrosse is sparking interest in younger athletes hoping to develop their skills.

At Christ Church Episcopal School, that growing passion for the game sparked the launch of both the boys and girls varsity lacrosse programs in the 2011–2012 school year. Despite initial challenges, such as limited experience and a small number of players, the program quickly gained momentum thanks to strong student interest and unwavering parental support. By 2014, the program had expanded to include both girls and boys junior varsity teams. Reflecting on those formative years, Director of Athletics and Head Varsity Girls Lacrosse Coach Molly Miller shared, “When we started, a lot of people didn’t know much about lacrosse, but kids were so excited to learn about this sport that their friends from surrounding schools had played for so many years, they were like sponges.” 

That excitement laid the foundation for what CCES lacrosse is today: a high-level, athlete-centered program where success is defined not only by state championship appearances - like the girls’ team in 2019 and the boys’ team in 2022 and 2023 - but also by the growth of each player. Fourteen student-athletes have gone on to play in college, but the heart of the program is based on the relationships formed, the confidence gained, and the leadership developed along the way.

“Our team is a family of brothers who will always have your back,” said varsity boys lacrosse player Bates Mann ’26. Varsity girls player Foster Miller ’25 shared that sentiment, saying, “This team has become a group of my closest friends… it is an experience like nothing else.” Players are part of close-knit teams where every grade level is connected, where seniors set the tone with leadership and accountability, and where coaches prioritize not just performance but character. 

It’s this culture that shapes not just better athletes, but stronger people. Whether picking up a stick for the first time in Middle School or arriving with years of experience, lacrosse players at CCES are pushed to be their best - and are given the resources and support to achieve this every step of the way. Jessica Mikesell ’24, a former girls varsity player now playing at Lenoir-Rhyne University, shared, “Playing at CCES gave me more than a college scholarship - it gave me leadership skills, lifelong friendships, and a goal to work toward.”

Looking ahead, the future of CCES lacrosse is bright. A strong focus on youth development and growing interest in the sport in the Upstate ensure a talented pipeline of future players. “In the next five to ten years, I see us winning a state championship,” said Head Varsity Boys Coach and Assistant Athletic Director Joey Porchetta. “We’ve got a strong group of young players coming up, and we’re fine-tuning what works best for our program.”

Next year also marks a leadership transition for the girls team, with current Assistant Coach Jennie Overstreet stepping into the role of head coach. “As I step into the new role, I want to honor everything Coach Miller has built - her vision and values are a big part of why I came to CCES in the first place,” said Overstreet. “We share the same competitive spirit and belief in hard work, and we both want to see our players grow into strong, confident women. I’m excited to continue the momentum we’ve built.”

So - thinking about trying lacrosse? Take it from current and former players. “Give it a try—it was the best decision I ever made,” said Jessica. 

“It’s a must—the bonds you create with people through the sport are amazing,” added Bates. 

“Don’t hesitate, just go for it. It will definitely be challenging at first, but you’ll learn so much and have a ton of fun” said Foster.

And as Kate Faris ’20, former varsity player and current JV Assistant Coach, shared: “Lacrosse is one of the most exciting sports you can play. It may take a while to get the hang of the stick skills, but once you do, it's incredibly rewarding.”
 

On April 24th, the CCES community gathered in McCall Field House for our all-school Easter Service. This meaningful tradition brought students, faculty, and staff together to reflect on and celebrate Easter. The service was a beautiful expression of faith and community - highlighted by selections from our student choirs, band and orchestra musicians, and a special performance by our Faculty and Staff choir. Before the service, students engaged in the flowering of the cross, which stood as a vibrant symbol of new life and Resurrection. 

The service also featured thoughtful student reflections on the theme “What Easter Means to Me,” offering their personal perspectives on the meaning of Holy Week. 

Davis Cramer ’33 shared a story inspired by a conversation with her grandmother, where she had posed the question: “If Jesus is called the only Son of God, how are we children of God too?” In her message, Davis reminded us of how easy it is to forget the true meaning of Holy Week amidst the busyness of our lives. She invited us to look at Jesus' final days on Earth as our guide - how He humbly washed His disciples’ feet, shared the Last Supper, spent time in prayer, and trusted God through it all. “When things became so busy for Jesus, He focused on the love of God for us and the love He commanded us to have for each other,” Davis shared. She encouraged us to love our neighbors, count our blessings, and to be still during our busy days to spend time with God. Her reflection concluded with a powerful reminder from scripture: “See what love the Father has given us, that we are called children of God, for that is what we are” (1 John 1:31).

Easter to Caroline Collins ’30 is a season of renewal and hope - a time when all of creation reflects the promise of new life. She spoke of the fresh blooms across campus, the sweet scents of spring in the air, and even the new ducklings waddling along the Swamp Rabbit Trail, which all serve as reminders of new life that surrounds us. Caroline quoted 2 Corinthians 5:17: “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come,” through which she emphasized that we are each given the gift of beginning again, with our hope placed in Christ and the Resurrection. She encouraged the community to go forward in love and hope, sharing the light of Christ with one another.

Jake Iskandar ’25 shared a powerful reflection on the love of Christ and the meaning of the resurrection. He explored the depth of Jesus’ suffering, referencing Jesus’ prayer in the garden, “Yet not as I will, but as you will” (Matthew 26:39), and His cry from the cross, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Mark 15:34), Jake reminded us that Jesus endured the agony of the cross out of love for us, so that we would never have to experience true separation from God. “In Christ, we have a Savior that conquered death in a shocking and miraculous way 2000 years ago,” he said. “But we also have a living God that continues to lay himself down, becoming the bridge over our sin, and allowing us to live in unity with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit throughout all eternity.”

We left McCall Field House, carrying with us not only the joy of Easter but also the encouragement to live out our faith with love, gratitude, and a renewed sense of purpose.

As the end of the school year draws closer and we celebrate the completion of classes, sports seasons, artistic accomplishments, and the rewards of jobs well done, the service reminded us that endings are also new beginnings. 

To see more photos of the service, click here.