Editorial by Chad Stuart
In 2017, when my family moved into our neighborhood in Maryland, our boys were 9, 7 and 5. Our street felt like a small-town movie: more than a dozen kids the same age, bikes on the roads, doorbells ringing— “Can your boys play?” Each afternoon, the children stitched families together with shared driveways and impromptu games of soccer or tag in front yards.
Story by Dover First Church and Visitor Staff
Following Winter Storm Fern, which brought more snow to the area than residents had seen in the last 10 years, Pastor Javier Scharon and members of Chesapeake Conference’s Dover First church mobilized to serve their surrounding community. Together, they shoveled snow and ice to clear walkways to ensure neighbors could safely navigate to their homes and streets.
The highlight of Highland View Academy’s (HVA) spring recruitment season will be Academy Days, held April 12–13, 2026.
This two-day event invites students in grades 8–11 to stay on campus, participate in interactive activities, meet current students and staff, and get a genuine taste of academy life.
Parents are also encouraged to attend to learn more about HVA’s academic programs, financial aid options and faith-centered mission.
The Chesapeake Conference Executive Committee elected Marilyn Scott as executive secretary of the Chesapeake Conference on Jan. 20. Scott fills the vacancy created when Andre Hastick became president on Jan. 1, following Jerry Lutz’s retirement.
Scott has served since 2024 as associate pastor for Children’s and Family Ministries at Bell Branch Church in Gambrills, Md., and as a Children’s Ministries specialist for Chesapeake Conference, providing training and resources for children’s ministries around the conference. Scott has pastored in the Chesapeake Conference for 16 years, serving previously as the Children’s Ministries associate pastor at Spencerville Church (2010–2016) and New Hope Church (2016–2024).
As Highland View Academy (HVA) looks toward 2026, the campus community is energized by a clear vision: to grow, connect and inspire the next generation of Christ-centered leaders. With the new year comes a renewed focus on recruiting and welcoming students who are ready to grow spiritually, academically and personally in a supportive, family-oriented environment.
Nestled in the rolling hills of Hagerstown, Md., HVA continues to offer a distinctive blend of strong academics, vibrant campus life and spiritual formation.