CCS Students Earn Record Honors at TAPPS Solo & Ensemble Championship
Cypress Christian School students earned record-breaking honors at the TAPPS Solo & Ensemble Championship, with 58 vocal and strings students receiving the highest rating of I–Superior. The annual competition brings together talented musicians from private schools across Texas to perform prepared musical selections before certified judges.
Students from the Vocal and Strings programs at Cypress Christian School recently earned outstanding honors at the TAPPS Solo & Ensemble Championship held on Monday, February 16. The annual competition brings together talented student musicians from private schools across Texas to perform prepared musical selections before certified judges.
During the competition, CCS students performed challenging solo repertoire and were evaluated on tone quality, technique, musical accuracy, interpretation, and overall musicianship. Judges then awarded ratings based on the quality of each performance.
Students can receive ratings ranging from I–Superior to V–Poor, with I–Superior representing the highest possible distinction. A Superior rating indicates an exceptional performance that demonstrates advanced preparation, strong technical skill, expressive interpretation, and a high level of musical artistry.
Cypress Christian School students delivered exceptional performances across the board. All CCS participants earned ratings of I–Superior or II–Excellent, with a record-breaking 58 students receiving the prestigious I–Superior medal — the highest rating awarded at the competition.
In addition to solo performances, CCS Strings students also participated in duet and trio performances, further demonstrating the depth and strength of the school’s growing Fine Arts program.
I–Superior Medal Recipients
Vocal
Grade 7: Campbell Attaya, Harper Delarosa, Berkleigh Elsner, Blythe Knight, Elyse Laidlaw, Eli Lindholm, Tamryn Mackey, Sadie Skipper, Cameron Stephens, Andie Walker, Estelle Ward
Grade 8: Clara Boerboom, Kylie Buzzell, Aniston Maclin, Meryl Martin, Anna McBride, Emily Moore, Hadley Parker, Arianna Puckett, Ryan Rundle, Kate Ward, Kennedy Worchesik
Grade 9: Sade Faleye, Avery Grumbles, Mason Wilson
Grade 10: Molly Ahrendt, Amanda Atkins, Sophie Boctor, Kira Farrington, Arianna Guajardo, Joseph Lavergne, Owen Layton, Chelsea Scott, Sydney Swan
Grade 11: Dyllen Baptiste, Caitlin Campbell, Kyra Davis, Jaeda Dumas, Pepper Eichelberger, Max Ferrell, Isabella Lespade, Maddie McCown, Jack Moore, Madison Mynes, Jeykei Ortiguero, Caleb Poirrier, Bella Thomas
Grade 12: Gabe Caldwell, Evan Ellington, Caden Kreitz, Maddy McKnight, Logan Oliverson, Aidan Salazar
Strings
Grade 7: Audrey Knight (violin), Sophie Meador (violin), Annaleigh Mellor (violin)
Grade 11: Lydia Duphorne (violin), Owen Zhang (violin)
TAPPS State Honors Award
Several CCS students performed the most advanced level repertoire and earned a I–Superior rating, receiving the esteemed TAPPS State Honors Award.
Recipients include:
Sade Faleye, Molly Ahrendt, Amanda Atkins, Kira Farrington, Owen Layton, Chelsea Scott, Sydney Swan, Dyllen Baptiste, Jaeda Dumas, Pepper Eichelberger, Max Ferrell, Isabella Lespade, Maddie McCown, Jack Moore, Madison Mynes, Jeykei Ortiguero, Caleb Poirrier, Evan Ellington, Maddy McKnight, Logan Oliverson, Aidan Salazar, Lydia Duphorne, and Owen Zhang.
These results reflect the dedication of CCS students, the mentorship of our Fine Arts faculty, and the continued growth of music education at Cypress Christian School.
Through opportunities like TAPPS Solo & Ensemble, students are able to refine their musical talents, develop confidence as performers, and represent their school with excellence.
The Fine Arts program at Cypress Christian School provides students with opportunities to grow in choir, orchestra, theater, and performance competitions throughout the year. Events like TAPPS Solo & Ensemble allow students to showcase their hard work while pursuing excellence in the arts.
Congratulations to all of our CCS musicians for their outstanding performances and for representing Cypress Christian School so well.
2025 AP Capstone Student Success at Cypress Christian School
Cypress Christian School, a leading Houston private high school, is proud to be recognized as an AP Capstone School, a distinction held by approximately 3,500 high schools worldwide. As a private Christian high school committed to academic excellence and faith-based education, CCS continues to prepare students for success at the highest levels of collegiate study.
The AP Capstone program, developed by the College Board, is a rigorous two-course sequence consisting of AP Seminarand AP Research, typically completed during a student’s junior and senior years. These advanced courses develop essential college-level skills, including independent research, critical thinking, collaboration, academic writing and professional communication across disciplines.
During the most recent academic year, CCS students enrolled in AP Research achieved a 100 percent passing rate, significantly exceeding both Texas and global averages. Students conducted original, in-depth research on a wide range of topics, including the effectiveness of 3D-printed prosthetics, the perceived health effects of caffeine consumption and the relationship between Christian musicians and technology during worship performances. Over several months, students designed research methodologies, collected and analyzed primary data and contributed original insights within their chosen fields of study.
The AP Research course culminates in a 5,000-word academic paper, modeled after a PhD-style thesis, and a 15-minute oral defense, during which students formally present and defend their findings. This level of academic rigor reflects the strength of CCS’s college-preparatory program and supports its reputation as a top ranked high school in the Houston area.
The following students earned the AP Capstone Diploma:
- Aiden Bialas
- Audrey Fransen
- Jonathan Quarles
- Nicole Santos
- Ester Torres-Pinheiro
The following students earned the AP Capstone Certificate:
- Violet Clement
- David Romero
- Delaney Wimsatt
Cypress Christian School celebrates these students for their dedication, intellectual curiosity and academic achievement. Their success exemplifies the mission of CCS to develop well-rounded graduates who are prepared for college, equipped to lead and grounded in biblical truth.
Families interested in learning more about the rigorous, college-preparatory experience at Cypress Christian School are encouraged to explore our high school academics, including AP, AP Capstone and college readiness programs:
https://www.cypresschristian.org/academics/high-school/
Applications for the 2026–2027 school year are now open. Prospective families can begin the admissions process and learn more about timelines and requirements by applying online:
https://www.cypresschristian.org/admissions/apply/
Cypress Christian School Celebrates Six Student-Athletes on National Signing Day
Cypress Christian School proudly celebrated National Signing Day on Wednesday, February 4, recognizing six student-athletes who committed to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. This milestone reflects years of dedication, perseverance and excellence both in the classroom and in competition.
The following CCS student-athletes signed to compete at the next level:
- Brayden Dawson – East Texas Baptist University (Football)
- Croix Farmer – Seminole State Junior College (Baseball)
- Ava Gonzalez – Texas A&M University (Archery)
- Zoie Lillie – Russell Sage College (Basketball)
- Audrey Petrowski – Oklahoma Baptist University (Softball)
- Ryu Tomita – Hulman Institute of Technology (Football)
Nationally, only about 7 percent of high school athletes go on to compete in college athletics. In a senior class of 70 students, these six Warriors represent 9 percent of the Class of 2026, an impressive reflection of the strength of CCS athletics and the commitment of its student-athletes.
Beyond athletic achievement, these students exemplify the values Cypress Christian School strives to instill: discipline, character, leadership and a pursuit of excellence that honors Christ. Their accomplishments are the result of countless hours of hard work, support from families and coaches and a school community dedicated to developing the whole student.
Cypress Christian School congratulates these six Warriors and looks forward to cheering them on as they represent CCS at the collegiate level.
Cypress Christian School Earns Platinum Status on the 2025 AP School Honor Roll
Cypress Christian School has been named a Platinum School on the 2025 College Board AP School Honor Roll—the highest level of recognition awarded by the College Board. This marks the second consecutive year CCS has earned Platinum status, further establishing Cypress Christian School as one of the top ranked private high schools in the Houston area.
This national distinction places CCS among an elite group of schools and reinforces its reputation as a best private school high school option for families seeking rigorous academics, strong college preparation and a Christ-centered educational environment.
A Leading Private High School in Houston for College Preparation
The AP School Honor Roll evaluates schools based on their success in preparing students for college-level coursework and academic excellence. To earn Platinum recognition, schools must meet the highest benchmarks in three areas of college readiness:
College Culture
Cypress Christian School fosters a strong college-preparatory culture by ensuring a high percentage of students experience Advanced Placement coursework before graduation. This early exposure helps students build confidence and academic momentum—key factors that distinguish CCS as a top private high school in Houston.
College Credit
Students at CCS consistently earn qualifying AP exam scores, allowing them to receive college credit at many universities nationwide. This achievement reflects the strength of CCS academics and its commitment to preparing students for success beyond high school.
College Optimization
CCS offers a well-sequenced AP program that encourages students to take multiple AP courses across their high school years, including opportunities in 9th and 10th grade. This intentional academic design ensures students are fully prepared for the demands of higher education.
Because CCS exceeded benchmarks in all three categories, the school now ranks within the top 7% of American high schools on the AP School Honor Roll.
Recognized for Expanding Access to Advanced Academics
In addition to Platinum status, Cypress Christian School also received the AP Access Award, recognizing schools that expand AP opportunities to all students, including those from underrepresented populations. This award highlights CCS’s commitment to academic equity and to making advanced, college-level learning accessible to every student who is ready to pursue it.
A Top Ranked Private High School Committed to Excellence
Cypress Christian School continues to strengthen its reputation as one of the best private high schools in Houston through its dedication to academic rigor, faculty excellence and comprehensive college preparation. The school’s AP program, combined with personalized instruction and a Christ-centered mission, creates an environment where students are challenged, supported and prepared for long-term success.
“This recognition reflects the outstanding work of our students and teachers and our commitment to academic excellence,” said Will Albers, Testing Coordinator and Bible Department Chair at CCS. “Being named a Platinum AP Honor Roll School affirms Cypress Christian School’s role as a leading private high school in Houston and a place where students are prepared to thrive in college and beyond.”
About the AP School Honor Roll
The College Board AP School Honor Roll recognizes high schools nationwide for outstanding performance in Advanced Placement participation and achievement. Platinum status is reserved for schools that exceed the highest benchmarks in access, college credit earned and long-term AP course sequencing.
Families interested in learning more about high school academics at Cypress Christian School can explore curriculum offerings, Advanced Placement opportunities and college preparation resources at:
https://www.cypresschristian.org/academics/high-school/
Applications for the 2026–2027 school year are now open. Prospective families seeking a private high school in Houston that combines academic excellence with biblical values are encouraged to apply and learn more about the admissions process at:
https://www.cypresschristian.org/admissions/apply/
CCS Packs 348 Operation Christmas Child Boxes
Operation Christmas Child: Students Live Out “Love God, Love People” Through Service
Elementary students at Cypress Christian School continued a cherished campus tradition by participating in our annual Operation Christmas Child shoebox collection—an opportunity that beautifully reflects this year’s elementary theme, “Love God, Love People.”
In the weeks leading up to the collection, every elementary student received a shoebox to take home and fill with items selected especially for a child in need. Many students eagerly asked for additional boxes, excited to bless more than one child. Their generosity was evident as boxes came back overflowing with hygiene supplies, school essentials, small toys, clothing items, and other thoughtful surprises meant to brighten a child’s Christmas.
This year, CCS students packed an impressive 348 shoeboxes.
A meaningful part of the project took place during Bible Buddies, where elementary and high school students paired up to write personal notes to the recipients and pray over each box. These moments of connection helped students understand the impact of their service—not only meeting physical needs but also sharing the love of Christ with children around the world.
The entire elementary division then gathered in chapel to pray collectively over the boxes, asking God to use each gift as a tool for hope, comfort, and the gospel. Afterward, the shoeboxes were delivered to an official Operation Christmas Child collection center, where they will begin their journey to children across the globe.
Projects like this remind our community that service is not simply an activity—it is an expression of who we are as a school. We are proud of our students for demonstrating compassion, generosity, and joyful obedience as they put their faith into action.
Cypress Christian School Named 2025 Best of Readers’ Choice Winner for Best Private School
Cypress Christian School has been honored as the 2025 Best of Readers’ Choice Winner in the Private School category by Cy-Fair Living Magazine—marking the second consecutive year CCS has earned this community-driven recognition. Each year, local residents cast votes for their favorite businesses, organizations and educational institutions, and CCS once again emerged as a top choice among families.
A Celebration of Excellence in Christian Education
Being recognized for the second straight year affirms CCS as one of the best private schools in Houston and a trusted K–12 Christian school rooted in academic excellence and biblical values. Cypress Christian School serves students from transitional kindergarten through 12th grade, providing a Christ-centered, college-preparatory education that equips students to think critically, lead confidently and live faithfully.
For more than four decades, CCS has remained steadfast in its mission “to honor the Lord Jesus Christ by providing students an education based upon academic excellence and biblical values.” This repeat recognition reflects the confidence families place in CCS and affirms the school’s standing as one of the best private Christian schools in Houston.
Rooted in History, Growing for the Future
Founded in 1978, Cypress Christian School has built a legacy of strong academics, championship athletics, thriving fine arts programs and vibrant Christian community life. In 2025, CCS celebrated a major milestone with the opening of its new Bridgeland campus, a 44-acre, 165,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility designed to enhance learning, strengthen community and support continued growth.
This modern campus—featuring innovative classrooms, collaborative learning environments, expansive athletic facilities and dedicated fine arts spaces—marks a new chapter in the school’s history while remaining deeply connected to its mission. The move positions CCS to serve more families in the rapidly growing northwest Houston region while offering one of the area’s strongest private Christian education experiences.
Community Votes Reflect Mission and Impact
The Cy-Fair Living Magazine Readers’ Choice Awards are driven entirely by community nominations and online voting, making this back-to-back recognition especially meaningful.
As CCS continues to grow and live out its mission in its new Bridgeland home, this award underscores its role as a leading Best Private School in Houston and a trusted K-12 Private Christian School shaping students with knowledge, character and faith.
NHS Students Serve at the Houston Food Bank
Living Out Leadership, Scholarship, Service and Character
Last weekend, students from Cypress Christian School’s National Honor Society (NHS) dedicated their time and energy to serving at the Houston Food Bank, one of the largest charitable food distributors in the nation. Through their hard work and teamwork, our students helped pack an incredible 9,000 meals for families in need across the greater Houston area.
The heart behind NHS is more than academic excellence. Founded on the pillars of Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character, the National Honor Society calls students to go beyond the classroom and use their gifts to make a positive impact on the world around them. Service is not simply an optional component of the program—it is a defining feature of what it means to be an NHS member.
This project was a powerful opportunity for our students to put that mission into action. Working in assembly lines, our members packed food, organized supplies, and supported the Food Bank staff with humility and enthusiasm. The students served joyfully, knowing that every box filled represented support, dignity and hope for a family facing difficult circumstances.
For many students, the experience was both eye-opening and deeply fulfilling. They saw firsthand how collective effort—many hands working together—can create meaningful change in a short amount of time. Projects like these help shape our students into compassionate leaders who understand the importance of giving back.
We are incredibly proud of our NHS members for showing up with a heart to serve and for representing CCS with integrity, kindness and perseverance. Their work made a real difference in our community, and we praise God for the opportunity to serve others in His name.
A heartfelt thank-you to all students, parent volunteers and staff who helped make this service project possible.
Praise God, and go Warriors!
Senior Artist Spotlight – Cailea Chalton
Cailea Chalton is an incredible artist who will be pursuing animation in college next year. She has applied to and been accepted into several top art schools across the country. Cailea was the president of the National Art Honor Society (NAHS) last year and is the president again this year. She is an amazing example to her peers as someone who is extremely talented but very humble.
Cailea has won many awards and contests throughout her high school career at CCS. During her 10th-grade year, Cailea won first place for her painting of a horse at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo. She was selected as one of the students whose Christmas card design was sold in the Warrior Warehouse. At TAPPS that year, she placed fourth on the art history test, second in on-site drawing and eighth in painting. On-site drawing and painting often have 75 to 100 students competing, so the competition is fierce!
Last year, as a junior, Cailea continued to excel as an artist and in the various competitions we compete in throughout the year. She was a finalist in the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo Art Competition. Also, despite CCS moving up to a much more competitive TAPPS division, Cailea won first place in the on-site drawing competition! In addition, she placed sixth on the art history test and received honorable mention in painting. Over the course of the year, she developed an excellent AP Art and Design portfolio, earning her a high score in AP. This year, she is developing her portfolio in AP Drawing and doing a fantastic job!
The CCS art department has been so blessed to have Cailea as a leader. We can’t wait to see how she succeeds in college and beyond! Congratulations, Cailea!
Varsity Volleyball Finish Successful Season
Warriors Advance to the Final Four & Brings Home Major Honors
Our varsity volleyball team closed out an unforgettable season with a Final Four appearance at the State Tournament, an achievement that reflects their determination, grit and heart. In one of the most intense matches of the year, the Warriors battled powerhouse Lutheran South Academy in a five-set thriller. Though the match ended in a narrow loss, our girls left everything on the court and made our school and community incredibly proud.
State Tournament Honors
Two of our standout athletes were recognized for their exceptional performance during the state tournament:
- Raquel – All State Tournament Team
- Connie – All State Tournament Team
These honors reflect not only their skill but also their poise and leadership on the biggest stage of the season.
We also celebrate several players who earned 2025 All State honors based on their outstanding performance throughout the year:
- First Team All State – Brynn
- Second Team All State – Raquel
- Honorable Mention All State – Lilah & Connie
District Awards
The success of this season is reflected across the board, with an incredible number of athletes recognized in district selections.
First Team All District
- Brynn
- Raquel
- Lilah
- Connie
- Sade
Second Team All District
- Isabella
- Addison D.
- Aryana
Honorable Mention All District
- Addison K.
- Karly
- Conley
- Allie Kate
A Season to Remember
This year’s varsity squad showed what true teamwork looks like, fighting through adversity, trusting one another and competing with relentless heart every step of the way. Making the Final Four in TAPPS 5A is a landmark accomplishment for this program, and every athlete contributed to the journey.
To our seniors, thank you for the legacy you leave behind. To our returners, your fire sets the stage for an even stronger future. To our coaching staff, parents and supporters, this run wouldn’t have been possible without your unwavering commitment.
Congratulations, Warriors. You made history, and you made us proud.
Varsity Football Finishes the Season 9–0
What a season it was for the Warriors! Finishing 9–0 is an incredible blessing and Coach Sells couldn’t be prouder of the young men who wear our school’s colors each Friday night. This group has officially made CCS history as the first undefeated football team in school history.
From day one the team’s focus has been about more than football. Coach Sells and his staff have emphasized playing with purpose by using their gifts to honor God and leave a legacy the younger generation can look up to. Over the season these players have grown not only in skill and strength but also in faith and maturity, praying together before every game and keeping their hearts aligned with what truly matters.
When Coach Sells looks at this team he sees young men who understand that true success isn’t found on a scoreboard but in how they carry themselves with humility, faith and perseverance. That’s what makes this undefeated season so meaningful.
Our coaches are thankful to guide a team that lives out the CCS mission: To honor the Lord Jesus Christ by providing students an education based upon academic excellence and biblical values. We are deeply grateful for every fan, parent and student who supported the program this year. Your prayers and encouragement made a difference.
As the Warriors close out this unforgettable season they do so with hearts full of gratitude, eyes fixed on the Lord and a legacy of brotherhood that will inspire teams for years to come.
Bridgeland Campus Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
On August 28, 2025, the Cypress Christian School community gathered in celebration of God’s abundant blessings and faithfulness to celebrate the official ribbon cutting of our new Bridgeland campus. The morning began with a special welcome from Board Chairman Sean Tackett, setting a tone of excitement and thankfulness for this milestone in the life of our school.
In keeping with CCS tradition, the ceremony began with reverence and prayer as students led the community in pledges and prayer to the Lord. Lilly Clark (Grade 5), Caleb Colchado (Grade 7), Sydney Swan (Grade 10), Sophie Fransen (Grade 12) and Will Werlein (Grade 12) each took part in this meaningful moment, reflecting our mission to raise up future leaders grounded in faith.
The celebration continued with inspiring words from Dr. Jeff Potts, President, and Tom Forney, Owner & Chairman of the Board of Forney Construction, who each uniquely shared reflections on God’s provision, the vision for this campus and the significance of investing in the next generation of Warriors.
The highlight of the morning was the official ribbon cutting, marking the formal opening of our new home in Bridgeland and symbolizing the beginning of a new chapter in Christian education for our students and families.
The program concluded with a heartfelt closing prayer from Board Member Stacey Fransen, who dedicated the campus fully to the Lord’s purposes, asking His blessing over every student and family and charging us all with the call to ‘make heaven crowded.’
This day will be remembered as a milestone of God’s faithfulness and the commitment of our CCS community to provide Christ-centered education for generations to come. As Cypress Christian School continues to grow and expand, we are grateful for the unwavering support of our families, faculty and the Cypress community.
For more information about Cypress Christian School and our Bridgeland campus, visit CypressChristian.org/bridgeland-campus-updates/.
Cypress Christian School Named 2024 Nonprofit Business of the Year
Cypress Christian School (CCS) is honored to be named the 2024 Nonprofit Business of the Year by the Cy-Fair Houston Chamber of Commerce. This recognition highlights CCS’s commitment to providing high-quality, Christ-centered education while making a lasting impact in the Cypress community.
Founded in 1978, Cypress Christian School has been dedicated to equipping students with academic excellence, biblical values and servant leadership. As a private Christian school in Cypress, CCS serves students in grades K-12 and prepares them for success both academically and spiritually. Last year, the school broke ground on its new campus in Bridgeland, which is set to open for the 2025-26 school year. This expansion will allow CCS to continue its mission of providing Christian education in Houston to even more families.
CCS was recognized alongside fellow nonprofit finalists MESA Outreach and Cy-Fair Helping Hands, both of which are making a meaningful difference in the Cypress area. Dr. Jeff Potts, President of CCS, expressed his gratitude for the award, stating, “To receive this honor is extra special because Cypress is extra special. There were many outstanding nominees, and I want to congratulate everyone in this category and in each of the categories. Any one of the other nominees would have been completely deserving of this award because of the incredible impact they are making in our community.”
In addition to this recognition from the Chamber, CCS was also honored by the offices of Congressman Wesley Hunt, Congressman Morgan Luttrell, and County Commissioner Tom Ramsey, further affirming its influence as a leading K-12 private school in Houston.
As Cypress Christian School continues to grow and expand, we are grateful for the unwavering support of our families, faculty and the Cypress community. We remain committed to providing exceptional Christian education and shaping the next generation of leaders through faith-based learning.
For more information about Cypress Christian School and our upcoming Bridgeland campus, visit CypressChristian.org/bridgeland-campus-updates/.
Eleven Cypress Christian School Student-Athletes Sign to Compete at the Collegiate Level
Cypress Christian School proudly celebrates 11 student-athletes who have signed National Letters of Intent to continue their athletic careers at the collegiate level. These signings represent years of dedication, perseverance and commitment to excellence both in competition and in the classroom, and they reflect the strength of CCS athletics and its mission to develop well-rounded student leaders.
Spring Signing Celebration
During a recent signing ceremony, six CCS athletes committed to compete at the next level:
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Carson Basham – University of Oklahoma (Gymnastics)
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Tucker Goodall – Ouachita Baptist University (Track & Field)
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John Kelly – University of Kansas (Football)
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Grayson Petru – Sam Houston State University (Golf)
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Gavin Snyder – Eastern Illinois University (Track & Field)
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Madeline Talkington – Stephen F. Austin University (Soccer)
Additional Collegiate Commitments
Two more Warriors later joined the list of collegiate signees:
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Megan Smith – Angelina College (Softball)
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Maximus Supplee – Hillsdale College (Football)
Final Signing Additions
The CCS athletics community recently celebrated three additional seniors who finalized their college commitments:
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Tristan Fokken – Nelson University (Baseball)
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Warren Haudek – Dallas College Mountain View (Baseball)
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Kolton Kurek – Georgia Gwinnett College (Basketball)
A Remarkable Achievement for the Class
With these signings, 11 members of the senior class will go on to compete in college athletics, representing more than 14 percent of the graduating class. Nationally, only a small percentage of high school athletes advance to collegiate competition, making this accomplishment especially noteworthy.
These student-athletes exemplify the values Cypress Christian School seeks to instill in every student: discipline, perseverance, humility, teamwork and a commitment to honoring Christ in all they do. Their achievements are a testament to countless hours of training, support from families and coaches and a school community dedicated to nurturing both athletic and academic excellence.
Cypress Christian School congratulates these Warriors and looks forward to cheering them on as they represent CCS at the next level.
