• Connecting people to an abundant life with Jesus Christ and preparing them for His return

Education

A Week Beneath the Redwoods A Lifetime of Impact

A Week Beneath the Redwoods A Lifetime of Impact 3894 2072 Ken Miller

July 27 – August 2, 2025, Redwood Camp Meeting promises something special under Northern California’s towering redwoods: Inspiring speakers, exceptional children’s programs, and a God-filled community experience that draws people back year after year.

Jennifer Shaw, camp secretary, reported this year’s lineup of speakers, exclaiming, “We are excited to welcome Jesse Seibel from the Hawaiian Islands to open Camp Meeting Sunday evening through Wednesday morning. His fresh insights will set a powerful tone for the week. From July 29 to August 2, Dr. Jon Paulien will lead a thoughtful evening worship series, guiding us deeper into Scripture and hope. Gary Venden, returns with his warm, relational preaching, and Ángel Rodríguez Medina will bring a dynamic ministry to our Spanish-speaking community.”

Redwood Camp Meeting is a place for all generations. Daily worship and inspiring seminars offer something for everyone. Children especially thrive with themed programs featuring music, crafts, stories, prayer, and a redwood-laden playground.

Other features during the week also include:

Eddie Heinrich will return with Summer on the Run activities, including a waterslide, climbing wall, and fun games that keep kids active and joyful—a Christ-centered adventure they’ll remember all year.

PUC Professor Jeff Joiner will teach free nursing CEU-credit classes on medical mission work, emergency care, and overdose response.

Mark your calendar and register at nccsda.com/RAC, to reserve a shaded campsite. Find your place beneath the redwoods—where faith grows deep and hearts grow close.

Featured in Northern Lights, June 26, 2025
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NCC Leadership Announcement

NCC Leadership Announcement 577 406 Ken Miller

Following the vote by the Constituency and approval by the Conference Executive Committee, the following leadership positions have been updated.

 

Featured in Northern Lights, June 26, 2025
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Safe and Respectful School Culture: The Role of the Education Code in the Northern California Conference

Safe and Respectful School Culture: The Role of the Education Code in the Northern California Conference 5142 3428 Ken Miller

By Laurie Trujillo, CFRE
NCC Director of Communication and Development

Over the past few months, we have highlighted how our ministries work to fulfill the Northern California Conference’s purpose of connecting people to a more abundant life with Jesus and preparing for the Second Coming. This month, we asked: How does our school system achieve this mission? The answer was found in an unexpected place—the Pacific Union Conference Education Code.

What is the Education Code?

The Pacific Union Conference Education Code, adopted by the Northern California Conference, is more than a manual of operational policies—it’s a spirit-led, values-based framework designed to foster safe, nurturing, and spiritually grounded learning environments. Rooted in biblical principles, it governs every aspect of our school operations, including staffing, curriculum, financial stewardship, professional conduct, and student safety.

Ellen G. White once wrote, “True education means more than the pursual of a certain course of study… It has to do with the whole being, and with the whole period of existence possible to man” (Education, p. 13). This holistic vision is reflected in the Education Code’s dual focus: protecting students and honoring educators.

Albert Miller, Superintendent of Schools for the Northern California Conference (NCC), explains, “We’re not just filling classrooms. We’re calling people to a ministry. Our educators are spiritually grounded and professionally equipped—trained not only to teach, but to mentor students into thoughtful, Christ-centered lives.”

How Does the Education Code Protect the Children in Our Care?

It affirms student well-being through a zero-tolerance approach to abuse, aligning with NCC policy that requires immediate reporting of any suspected child abuse or neglect. Comprehensive screening and training—including background checks and abuse prevention certifications—are mandated for all school personnel by NCC policy and supported by the Code.

To further safeguard students, schools must conduct regular safety audits, maintain effective emergency protocols, and create environments where students feel emotionally and physically secure. Grounded in Christian compassion, NCC holds all staff to the highest standards of integrity and respectful interaction. Confidential and accessible reporting mechanisms for students and their families ensure that every voice is heard, and every concern is taken seriously.

“Safety goes beyond compliance,” Miller says. “While we meet all of California’s legal requirements for working with children, for us, it’s more than legal—it’s deeply moral. We want every child to feel safe, seen, and loved.”

How Does the Code Uphold the Dignity of Employees?

It safeguards the dignity of those called to teach. Investigations involving staff must be conducted in a confidential, fair, and impartial manner. Employees are guaranteed due process, including the right to respond, access support, and receive updates.

Its goal is to foster a professional culture of trust, transparency, and growth, emphasizing respectful communication and restorative practices. “We don’t rush to judgment or jump to conclusions,” Miller explains. “Clear expectations matter, but so does restoration.”

How Impactful Are These Policies and Practices?

In today’s complex world, NCC’s adoption of the Pacific Union Conference Education Code serves as both a shield and a compass, protecting the vulnerable and guiding educators in their sacred mission.

Recently, a student sent us a letter: “I didn’t grow up Adventist and struggled in public school, never seeing much purpose in learning. That changed when I enrolled in an Adventist school near our new home. Expecting the same thing, I was surprised to be met with compassion, patience, and a teacher who helped me discover both Jesus and a love for learning. For the first time, I cared about school, found subjects I enjoyed, and began dreaming about the future with Jesus in my life. Even with severe ADHD, I feel accepted and respected. I look forward to attending the academy near my home.”

With 31 schools, more than 2,000 students, and over 200 educators, NCC’s education system is the longest-running evangelistic effort in our territory. In 2024, school-age children and youth accounted for 18% of all NCC baptisms.

“Adventist education is more than academics,” Miller concludes. “It’s about shaping lives—one heart, one mind at a time—for this life and the life to come.”

Featured in Northern Lights, June 5, 2025
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A Rainy Sabbath, a Creek, and Five Brave Decisions

A Rainy Sabbath, a Creek, and Five Brave Decisions 4000 2250 Ken Miller

The sky over Redwood Adventist Academy on April 26 was gray, and the rain never let up. Still, the yearly sacred music program dubbed Redwoodstock carried on.

For the last 28 years, Redwoodstock has brought the community together to listen to children make music, share good food, and soak up the Spring weather. There is praise music from local church bands, and an opportunity for Redwood students to perform their Spring concert. Every grade participates, singing in choirs, playing bells, ukuleles, and even performing alongside guests. It is a grand tradition for the school.

This year, the most unforgettable event came during intermission as five students stepped forward to be baptized in the creek that runs through the school property. As the rain continued, the crowd drew close to the creek and huddled under umbrellas, hearts full.

These five students had studied for months, asking questions, studying their Bibles, in preparation to follow Jesus. They stepped into the cold water one by one, publicly declaring their faith by baptism. With tears, applause, and wet shoes, the audience witnessed something powerful and celebrated each as they came out of the water: five young lives going all in for Christ.

Sonja Cartwright, associate pastor of the Santa Rosa church, stated, “It was one of the best, rainiest Sabbaths with our church and school family. We’re still smiling and praising God for calling our students to baptism. It’s been such a joy studying with them and seeing them take this step.”

Featured in Northern Lights, May 10, 2025
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Teachers and Pastors Engage in Engagement

Teachers and Pastors Engage in Engagement 4000 2250 Ken Miller

On April 7, over 200 educators and 130 pastors gathered at Gracepoint Church for the annual Mark Blue Lecture Series.

This year’s theme advanced the NCC’s commitment to organizational health by concentrating on active engagement between employees, church members, and students. Keynote speaker Berit Von Pohle, Pacific Union Vice-President of Education, highlighted the value of positive leadership and offered many practical tools to help education and ministry professionals strengthen engagement.

Another spotlight during the event was an employee satisfaction survey by the Gallup organization. This online survey was emailed to all employees and completed on phones and laptops during a short break. This professionally designed and interpreted questionnaire will serve to measure NCC employee satisfaction, engagement, and other key categories.

Also highlighted was the need for collaboration between schools and churches to inspire future leaders. Presenters and audience discussed ways to engage young people in learning and service, creating a seamless connection between educational and spiritual development. With these strategies, schools and churches can build stronger, more unified teams, ultimately leading students and members to a more significant impact in their communities.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 10, 2025
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Did You Know? Children and Family Ministries Department

Did You Know? Children and Family Ministries Department 3867 2041 Ken Miller

Under the direction of Barry van Iderstein, the NCC Children and Family Ministries Department equips and supports local church leaders to guide children and families to Jesus and prepare them for His soon return.

The department has been instrumental in strengthening child safety protocols in our entities. It supports children’s Sabbath Schools, Adventurer Clubs, Children’s Church, and VBS programs by providing training and resources. It also sponsors events like the Adventurer Bike Derby and Family Fun Weekends.

Serving children and families, the department addresses spiritual needs through tailored programs. Over 800 children in Adventurer Clubs and nearly a thousand SDA and non-SDA children are impacted by VBS. This department’s initiatives and programs foster safe, faith-filled environments for young believers.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 10, 2025
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Did You Know? Youth and Young Adult Ministries

Did You Know? Youth and Young Adult Ministries 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Eddie Heinrich directs the NCC’s Youth and Young Adult Ministries Department, which is devoted to guiding young people into a deeper relationship with Jesus and helping them grow in faith, purpose, and service.

Youth Ministries include retreats, camps, and gatherings offer spaces where young hearts are strengthened, friendships are formed, and faith takes root. Summer on the Run brings joy and spiritual connection to children, many of whom encounter the love of Christ for the first time. Programs like Team Bible Academy invite youth to explore Scripture and grow together in understanding and trust.

Young adults are stepping into leadership through evangelistic efforts and community outreach, discovering what serving with compassion and courage means. Retreats help them build healthy, Christ-centered relationships and deepen their walk with God.

Pathfinders continue to grow through hands-on service, leadership training, and events that foster teamwork and commitment. These experiences prepare them not just for ministry but for life.

The department walks alongside local churches, supporting pastors and leaders with training, resources, and encouragement. Campus ministries, urban outreach, and cultural partnerships extend the church’s mission beyond its walls.

Each life touched—whether through a campfire prayer, a mission trip, or a food fair—reflects the heart of this ministry. Continued support means these efforts will continue to plant seeds of faith, raise leaders, and build a future full of hope and purpose.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 17, 2025
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A Night to Remember: The First Annual NCC Advantage Awards

A Night to Remember: The First Annual NCC Advantage Awards 3812 2785 Ken Miller

The evening of April 7 was a truly memorable occasion—the launch of the first annual NCC Advantage Awards program. This special event was created to further the concepts of organizational health by honoring outstanding educators and pastors across the Northern California Conference who live out the values that define our mission.

These values—Contagious Kindness, a Servant’s Heart, Passionate Hard Work, Engaged and Enthusiastic Leadership, Community Relevance, Mission-Driven Dedication, and Organizational Health—aren’t just ideals; they’re the everyday actions of those who serve with purpose and heart.

This evening was especially meaningful because each nominee was chosen by their peers through an anonymous ballot process—a testament to the respect and admiration they inspire within their communities.

Award winners were chosen from the nominees for each category and recognized with a beautifully crafted crystal award, symbolizing their achievement and unwavering commitment to service. Many shared moving words of gratitude, offering glimpses into the passion behind their work and the deep appreciation they hold for their students, church members, colleagues, and calling.

The Advantage Awards remind us that excellence is a powerful force when paired with humility and mission. Celebrating these faithful educators and pastors inspires us to continue building organizational health rooted in grace, leadership, and wholehearted dedication to God’s work.

Award Winners, Left to Right: Sasa Andelkovic, Walt Groff, Tim McMillen, Rick Nelson, Brad Geinger, Gina Wilmott, Steve Brownell, Lisa Bohman, Cyndi Westenrider, Bob Mason, Linda Lamb, Wendy Henry, Douglas Barahona, Jaime Calvo

Featured in Northern Lights, April 17, 2025
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Did You Know? NCC Education Department

Did You Know? NCC Education Department 4000 2258 Ken Miller

According to Albert Miller, NCC Education Superintendent, “Our department exists to serve the schools of the NCC by championing quality education rooted in faith. We walk alongside educators, leaders, and communities, offering the tools, training, and guidance to create safe, Christ-centered learning environments where students can grow academically and spiritually.”

Teachers are recruited for, and equipped with, ideals that match NAD standards. Over 200 teacher contracts are processed with care and compliance, and nearly 600 scholarships are awarded.

We attend monthly board meetings across 32 schools, offer strategic enrollment support, and maintain two student management systems with ongoing training. Our centralized job posting system and contract processes reflect our commitment to efficiency and transparency.

Support for this department means investing in a proven, Christ-centered model that prioritizes excellence, growth, and safety. Through thoughtful mentorship, strong governance, and strategic support, we’re building schools that shape lives. Every initiative is designed to uplift students, support teachers, and foster communities of faith—today and into the future.

Featured in Northern Lights, April 24, 2025
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PUC Hosts Academy Music Festival

PUC Hosts Academy Music Festival 4000 2250 Ken Miller

Over 200 students from 9 academies, including NCC schools Lodi, PUC Preparatory, Paradise, Pleasant Hill, Rio Lindo, and Ukiah Junior Academies, met at Pacific Union College for the 2025 Music Festival.

The musicians included high school musicians from the choir, strings, and band. Rachelle Berthelsen-Davis, music department chair and orchestra director, exclaimed, “This weekend saw some excellent music making, and everybody had so much fun! The students were a wonderfully responsive group of musicians who rose to the occasion and did a wonderful job of bringing the music to life.”

Musicians met for breakout sessions that included improving skills and techniques and practicing the music selected for the Sabbath evening concert. One concertgoer and student from PUC, shared, “I am just impressed at the quality of music presented by our high-school children for this concert and Messiah during the last Christmas season.”

Berthelsen praised, “Bravo to Becky St. Clair, administrative director, who made this event come to life, all the academy performers, teachers, parents, and my co-directors, Will DeWitt for the band, and Ronnie Zanella, who directed the choir.”

Featured in Northern Lights, April 3, 2025
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