We at Veritas have noticed that Secondary students tend to decrease their engagement in the life of the school as they get closer to graduation. In addition, high-performing students can be focused on their own work to the point that they withdraw. As Secondary students become disconnected from our community, we can feel the weakening of school spirit. To address these issues, Veritas launched the Honoraries in 2023 which are student societies that each serve the school differently: assisting Grammar teachers, welcoming guests into the school, organizing the science lab, cataloging school books, etc… Participation in an honorary is a privilege while also providing students with leadership opportunities. In addition to the Honoraries, Veritas has done a better job of leveraging its House program. The Director of Houses has created a curriculum for student government that focuses on leadership training and discipleship. We have also made service a requirement for individuals as well as for Houses so that students learn to prioritize the needs of the Veritas community. In this presentation we will explore the Honororaries and House initiatives in a fun, comfortable interview format that promises to be entertaining and informative.

Daniel R. Spanjer is principal at Veritas Academy. He earned his Ph.D in American Cultural History from University at Albany, SUNY. He served Lancaster Bible College as Professor of History for over 10 years and is a regular speaker with Summit Ministries in Manitou, Colorado.

Rhonda Forbes earned her undergratudate degree in Systems Engineering from the University of Virginia. She serves as the Dean of Math and Sciences at Veritas Academy where she has been teaching Math and Omnibus for nearly 20 years. In addition to serving on the academic side of the school, Rhonda has been the faculty advisor for a Secondary House for over a decade and had spearheaded many cultural iniatives the school including special events, honoraries, student societies, and peer tutoring initiatives.

Adam Timmins earned a bachelor’s degree in Pastoral Studies from Lancaster Bible College. Throughout his time in college and through the years since, he has served his local church in youth ministry, sunday school, and outreach ministries. Since 2023 Adam has taught Logic, Rhetoric, Apologetics, and Bible electives in addition to serving as the Director of Houses.