Alumni

Krisi came to VCS in 1997 and graduated in 2001. After graduating, Krisi attended one year at Moody Bible Institute in Spokane and married her high school sweetheart in 2002. Together, they have been blessed with 4 amazing children and have remained closely connected to the VCS community. Over the years, Krisi has worn many hats at VCS – as a coach, a dedicated parent, yearbook teacher and serving on the custodial staff. Krisi has enjoyed serving in Awana for 20 years and volunteering in “so many odds and ends places around VCS and our church.” Her faith has continued to grow through “staying in fellowship and service,” as well as “seeking advice from older women and reaching out and mentoring younger women.”

Now, in this current season, Krisi finds joy in watching her children grow and thrive. “The kids are in a really fun stage,” she says, and their family loves cheering them on at games and performances. Being back on campus, whether helping behind the scenes or supporting school activities it feels like coming full circle.

When Krisi looks back on her time at VCS, what stands out most is the sense of community and the memories made together. “Sports is the first thing that comes to mind,” she shares, along with friendships and the fun of growing up together. In a time before cell phones and social media, she remembers “lots of memories of creative play” and special moments that only come from being part of a close-knit school. From Jr./Sr. banquet and retreats to unforgettable late-night adventures, VCS was “a small, tight-knit Christian community” that left a lasting impression. Those experiences built friendships, character, and memories that still bring joy years later.

Athletics were a defining part of Krisi’s VCS experience and a source of many fond memories. She competed in cross country and track during a remarkable season for the school, when teams “went to and placed at state in almost every sport.” She was part of the girl’s cross country team that brought home the school’s first state trophy, as well as the first girls state title in track and field. “These are really the best memories I have from high school, being part of sports teams that were really successful.” Krisi says ” I love walking into the gym and seeing so many of our state championship banners and so many school track records still standing from my years here at VCS.” Krisi still wears a necklace made by her state 4×4 relay team before competing at state. “Every time I wear it, I think about my teammates and the fun we had at state track—our record still stands from 2001.”

She is especially grateful for the teachers and coaches who invested in her life. Recalling a few influential ones that come to mind such as “Mr. Evans, Ms. Hicks, my running coach, Linda Lanker, Mr. Hensley and of course my now MIL- Mrs. Hopson” While she admits she didn’t always recognize their impact at the time, she now appreciates “their boldness and love in challenging us to do the right thing” and their patience “as kids learn, grow, and gain wisdom.” Those relationships helped lay a foundation that continues to guide her today.

Her advice to today’s students reflects the heart of the VCS experience: “Stay close to your roots – roots of family, community, faith, and the things you were taught and believe.” She also encourages students to soak in every moment. “You don’t get a chance to go back to high school. Enjoy the four years you get to just be a teenager.”