[[] eaching for excellence, Harding Academy's goal as an institution was not only to teach students academics, but also to show her students another way of life. In John 10:10, Jesus says that '1 came that they may have life and have it abundantly." The abundant life that was portrayed in the lives of Harding Academy's faculty and administration encouraged the student body to strive for this excellence in their own lives. Because Harding is based on Christ's principles, the excellence which characterized it lay in areas beyond that of material achievement. An athletic team's love for and dedication to their coach consistently produced winning seasons; a teacher's love for his students often compelled him to stay beyond school hours to listen to their personal problems and to point them to the Bible as a comfort and a guide. In the realm of academics, most students felt that they should do their best in all areas and as a result, Harding Academy's average grade point average was higher than that of most schools. In continuing with the reach for excellence, individuals tried to improve their relationships with others. Friends were not taken advantage of but were cherished and loved. Time spent with friends at school-sponsored activities were especially meaningful to the seniors as facing their last year together a~ a class. The unique spirit of Harding Academy meant more in 1985-86, and each one gained a clear understanding that living as a Christian meant living in line with excellence. 4 Lisa Underwood Academy Editor Bright eyes. Melani Morgan, a fourth grader at Harding Academy, shows her obvious pleasure in the activities of classroom. Harding Elementary, which was founded as Harding College's training school, has given thousands of students a quality christian education through the years. -photo byDanny Meeks. Wildcat spirit. Displaying the inevitable Wildcat Spirit , Micah Rine helps the Senior High cheerleaders encourage a football crowd to support the team . Micah is the daughter of Mr . and Mrs . Dennis Rine; Mr . Rine is a foot~ ball and basketball coach for the Academy . - photo by John Radcliffe . Reachini_ 291
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