Aslans Voice

Q&A with Coach Luis Santo - Physical Education Teacher & Basketball Coach

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 15:10:19 GMT

Coach Santo's Background:

Paterson native; Standout basketball and baseball player at Passaic County Technical High School; former professional baseball & basketball player in Puerto Rico; founder Train Up Sports (club teams clinics and lessons)

What do you enjoy about your role at Dawn Treader?

Coach Santos: The opportunity to pour into students beyond sports itself. Dawn Treader creates an environment where faith, education, and athletics work together, and I’m grateful to God for allowing me to be part of a community that values character, discipline, and Christ-centered leadership. Being able to mentor young athletes, build relationships, and help shape them into confident, respectful young men and women is my calling.

What is your teaching and coaching philosophy?

Coach Santos: It is centered on developing the whole child—mentally, physically, and spiritually. I believe effort, accountability, and integrity matter just as much as talent. I coach with structure, encouragement, and high standards while emphasizing servant leadership, teamwork, and faith. I want every athlete to understand that their identity is rooted in Christ, not performance, and that growth comes through discipline, consistency, and trust in God.

What are your main goals as a teacher and coach this season?

Coach Santos: My main goals this season are to help students grow in confidence, develop strong fundamentals, and learn how to handle both success and adversity with character. I want to see them improve academically, athletically, and spiritually, while learning how to be leaders, good teammates, and responsible young men.

What impact do you see Dawn Treader having in children's lives?
Coach Santos: Dawn Treader provides a safe, faith-filled environment where children are seen, supported, and challenged to grow. The school gives students structure, purpose, and spiritual grounding while reinforcing positive values that extend beyond the classroom. I see Dawn Treader shaping confident learners, strong leaders, and compassionate boys and girls who are prepared for life, not just academics.

What is Train Up Sports?

Coach Santos: Train Up Sports is a Christ-centered athletic program dedicated to developing young athletes through sports, mentorship, and faith-based teaching. Guided by Proverbs 22:6, Train Up Sports focuses on skill development, character building, and spiritual growth. The program serves kids from various communities, including underserved areas, providing opportunities for camps, clinics, club teams, and mentorship while reinforcing discipline, respect, and a strong foundation in Christ.

Anything else you want readers to know?

Coach Santos: Everything I do as a teacher and coach is driven by a desire to serve and make a lasting impact. I believe sports are a powerful tool to reach hearts, teach life lessons, and guide young people toward positive paths. With the support of sponsors, donors, and the community, we can continue creating opportunities that change lives, strengthen families, and build future leaders grounded in faith and purpose.

A Lesson from the Dawn Treader - Navigating the Seas of Love

Mon, 26 Jan 2026 14:40:54 GMT

C.S. Lewis’s The Voyage of the Dawn Treader is far more than a children’s fantasy; it is a profound parable on the multifaceted nature of love, demonstrating how it guides us toward spiritual fulfillment. As we journey with the Pevensies and Eustace, Lewis reveals transformative truths about divine, fraternal, and compassionate love.

One of the most striking lessons is the transformative power of divine love . Eustace Scrubb, initially selfish and arrogant, embodies the antithesis of love. His descent into a dragon, a physical manifestation of his inner greed, serves as a vivid illustration of how unchecked self-love disfigures the soul. It is only in his utter despair that he encounters Aslan, who, with a fierce yet loving touch, strips away the dragon skin. This painful yet redemptive act mirrors the process of spiritual rebirth, where God’s love, often through difficult circumstances, purifies us. Eustace’s subsequent growth—his burgeoning compassion and willingness to serve—demonstrates that true love begins with a surrender to the divine, a willingness to be unmade and remade.

Lewis reminds us that this act of loving—and being transformed by it—is inherently vulnerable. He wrote:

“To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything and your heart will be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact you must give it to no one, not even an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements. Lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket—safe, dark, motionless, airless—it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable.”

The voyage also beautifully portrays the strength and complexities of fraternal love . Lucy and Edmund, having matured since their first arrival in Narnia, exhibit a deepened loyalty and bond. They endure hardships together, offering comfort, encouragement, and practical support to one another and to Eustace. Their consistent presence and support speaks to the enduring nature of family love—a love that learns to forgive and actively support each other's growth.

We also see the vital role of compassionate love , extending beyond the bonds of family. Reepicheep, the valiant mouse, embodies unwavering loyalty, honor, and selfless dedication. His commitment inspires those around him. Furthermore, the crew’s interactions with the various islanders demonstrate the call to extend kindness and aid despite initial misunderstandings or prejudices. This reminds us that Christian love requires us to see the humanity in others and to offer help where it is needed.

Ultimately, the Dawn Treader’s destination—the utter east, the land of Aslan—represents the culmination of all forms of love . It is a journey toward a deeper understanding and experience of God’s boundless love, the ultimate reality that draws us ever closer to Him. The children's yearning for Aslan’s country illustrates the pilgrim’s journey toward eternal hope and union with the Divine.

The Voyage of the Dawn Treader teaches us that divine love transforms us, fraternal love sustains us, and compassionate love extends us. As we navigate the seas of our own lives, let the compass of love, guided by the Light of Aslan (Jesus), lead us toward purposeful and fulfilling lives.

A Christmas Devotion: The Gift That Felt Too Big

Sun, 14 Dec 2025 01:46:56 GMT

It was Christmastime 1978, and I was in the eighth grade.

My father asked me directly, “What on your list do you really want for Christmas this year?”

I couldn’t help but smile. I was the kid whose Christmas list, written out the day after Thanksgiving, was a mile long. Even though I often heard the phrase, “We can’t afford it,” I still managed to craft a pretty ambitious wish list.

I told Dad a couple of the usual things.

“No, what do you really want?” he pressed.

I knew he was asking if there was anything I wanted that wasn't on the paper. And there was one thing, but it was far too big. I knew we couldn’t afford it. It was too much for one present—too much even for a combined Christmas-Easter-Birthday-Graduation gift.

It was a stereo .

My friends all had stereos in their rooms, complete with a radio, turntable, and tape player. Our family had a unit in the den, but I desperately wanted my own.

“I’d really like a stereo,” I finally admitted.

My dad simply referred me back to my original, written list.

Fast forward to Christmas morning.

I ripped into a massive box and found it: a brand-new stereo, complete with a radio, turntable, and tape player. The gift I had been certain was impossible.

Overwhelmed, I raced down the hall into my room, tears streaming down my face, and closed the door.

My mom banged softly on the door. “Robbie, are you all right, honey?”

I let her in and tried to explain my breakdown. I was in shock. The gift was too big, too expensive. I felt I didn't deserve it, and the thought of what my parents might have sacrificed to get it for me was unbearable. I loved it, yet I wanted to return it.

She gently reassured me. She told me it was okay, that they could afford it, and that they had gotten it because they loved me and wanted me to be happy.

I was completely overwhelmed—not just by the magnificent gift, but by the profound love behind it.

It was my most memorable Christmas.

The Unthinkable Gift

That gift was wonderful, but it points to a much greater one.

This Christmas, I invite you to pause and wonder at the gift that Jesus is to us. To wonder means to feel a surprise mingled with admiration, caused by something beautiful, unexpected, or inexplicable.

The events surrounding Christ—from the moment the angel appeared to Mary, to his birth, to his life and sacrifice 33 years later—are all wonderfully true and inexplicable.

Wonder at the reason He came: God’s immense love and perfect gift for you.

Wonder at the gift of your faith and the result of that belief: you shall not perish but have everlasting life.

Wonder at the scope of what we receive from this gift, as declared in the hymn, “I know that my Redeemer lives.” Reflect on each verse….

He lives to bless me with his love.

He lives to plead for me above.

He lives my hungry soul to feed.

He lives to bless in time of need.

He lives to grant me rich supply.

He lives to guide me with his eye.

He lives to comfort me when faint.

He lives to hear my soul’s complaint.

He lives to silence all my fears.

He lives to wipe away my tears.

He lives to calm my troubled heart.

He lives all blessings to impart.

He lives, my kind, wise heav’nly Friend.

He lives and loves me to the end.

He lives, and while he lives, I’ll sing.

He lives, my Prophet, Priest, and King.

He lives and grants me daily breath.

He lives, and I shall conquer death.

He lives my mansion to prepare.

He lives to bring me safely there.

He lives! All glory to his name!

He lives, my Savior, still the same.

Oh, sweet the joy this sentence gives:

“I know that my Redeemer lives!”

Ship's Log - School Update

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:30:52 GMT

 Cultivating Minds and Hearts

It's a privilege to assist our teachers and parents in cultivating the young minds and hearts of our students. As an alumna of Dawn Treader Christian School and a former teacher, it's a full-circle experience to observe the many facets of education, such as admissions, academics, classroom instruction, assessments, and academic competitiveness.

Student and Academic Growth

We're grateful to have experienced growth in admissions this year. Our student body has increased to 117 students, and we're planning for more growth in each grade level in the months and years to come. With growth comes the responsibility to steward our learners, and our staff members are extremely excited and eager to instruct our students.

Not only are they utilizing smartboards and Chromebooks in the classroom for instruction, visual aids, and classroom management, but students also have after-school activities available, such as classes in Coding, Math Enrichment, and STEM. Making STEM available to our students has been one of our top priorities as we train them to advance in their academics and beyond.

Preparing for the Future

As we prepare our students for middle school and high school, we use I-Ready Diagnostic Assessments and standardized testing tools to help teachers and parents understand the strengths and challenges of our students. Last year, we implemented an I-Ready Pep Rally to help ignite excitement in reading and mathematics. During each round of I-Ready, every class experienced growth in both subjects, and students were celebrated for their efforts. Our eighth-grade learners are also in the process of preparing for high school applications, open houses, and shadowing opportunities, which is always exciting.

Extracurricular Enrichment

This year, a plethora of events are planned for our students, including Hispanic Heritage Presentations, participation in the Northern NJ Christian School Spelling Contest, the annual D.T.C.S. Christmas Concert, Black History Month Presentations, Read Across America, and our annual Spring Concert, to name a few.

We're looking forward to an exciting year full of growth and success for our students and staff. Thank you for your partnership and willingness to sow into the lives of our students as we help them tap into their God-given potential. We pray that the seeds that have been sown into Dawn Treader Christian School will, in turn, bless you richly.

Ms. Taneka Darby

Dean of Students and the Admissions Contact

From Ensemble to Elite Eight: Imani Baker's Journey of Praise and Purpose

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 01:01:59 GMT

Imani Baker , a rising 8th grader at Dawn Treader, seamlessly blends her passion for music with a deep-rooted faith. From harmonizing with her beloved Ensemblet o navigating the supportive halls of Dawn Treader since kindergarten, Imani's journey is a testament to the power of community, mentorship, and a clear vision for the future. Her story, marked by a love for abstract art, a dedication to her studies, and an ambition to return to Dawn Treader as a teacher, highlights a young woman already living out the quiet yet impactful life described in her favorite Bible verse.

Favorite thing about being in the Ensemble:

My favorite thing is praising God. I like the people too. It’s really fun. We have so much fun together. I especially like how we do harmonies for specific songs. It was sometimes tricky to learn, but Ms. Williams taught and encouraged us, and we got it.

Favorite thing about Dawn Treader :

My fellow students and the staff members. I’ve been at dawn Treader since kindergarten, so I’ve met lots of people through the years. Some have moved on, some are still here. Mr. Berra does everything and I know I can always go to him when I have a problem. When I need help, all the teachers are there to listen. They pray for me and give me Bible verses and biblical advice.

Favorite school subject:

Music

On what she wants to be when she grows up:

I want to come back and be a teacher at Dawn Treader. I’d love to be the music teacher like Ms. Williams, who has taught me so much, but I’d teach any subject.

Hobbies:

Singing, painting (abstract art), dancing, reading, swimming

Favorite Bible verse:
1 Thessalonians 4: 11-12, NIV, which says, “and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that yo uwill not be dependent on anybody".

DTCS Graduate - Kashmir Dickson

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 01:01:58 GMT

Kashmir Dickson

On the career he plans to pursue.

For as long as I can remember, I've dreamed of playing in the NFL. Football isn't just a sport to me it's a passion and a way of life. I know it takes hard work, discipline and determination to make it to the professional level, and I'm willing to give it everything I've got. Whether it's training, studying the game, or pushing myself to improve every day, I'm committed to doing
whatever it takes. One day, I hope to hear my name called on draft day and make an impact on the field, inspiring others the same way NFL players have inspired me.

His favorite memory at Dawn Treader:

My favorite memory was our annual Field Day, when the whole school came together for a day filled with games, laughter and friendly competition. I remember the excitement in the air as we lined up for the relay races, cheered each other on, and shared snacks under the sun. It was a day when everyone—from students to teachers—seemed to let loose and just enjoy being together. I felt a strong sense of belonging and joy, surrounded by friends who felt more like family. That day reminded me how special our school was—not just for what we learned, but for the memories we made and the relationships we built.

DTCS Graduate - Zymeik Goodwin

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 01:01:54 GMT

Zymeik Goodwin

On his career aspirations

Upon graduating from high school, I intend to pursue a specialized career in personal security, with the goal of becoming a bodyguard. Bodyguards serve in a variety of unique roles, including a private investigator, a security officer, or an armed protection specialist. Each role requires distinct skills, tactical thinking, as well as being ultimately resilient.

I plan to pursue this sort of career because during all my childhood I devoted my life to do my
absolute best in protecting people from the complications that were causing them distress. So, as I got older, I realized that being a bodyguard would be an excellent career choice for me, because bodyguards protect people from any harm that is coming their way. I also believe that being a bodyguard would be an excellent career for me, because I find protecting people is a high-minded thing to do. I feel like being a bodyguard would suit me well, considering the dynamic measures I take to ensure the safety of others.

His favorite memory at Dawn Treader
My favorite memory was the moment I first met my best friend, Faith Cervantes. It happened
back in fourth grade. I was seated at a desk slightly apart from hers, in the area that is now our Family Time area. At first, Faith was very shy, but as I spent more and more time with her, I
noticed that she was the most optimistic person I have ever met. Even though we faced many challenges, despite those challenges—even when I was the one guilty—Faith always remained by my side.

That loyalty is what makes this memory so special to me. Her kindness towards
someone she had just met, showed me what it truly means to be a friend. Through her actions, I learned the importance of trust and what it means to have someone who supports you, without looking for something in return. Faith’s gentle heart and constant support turned that moment into my most favorable memory at my school

DTCS Graduate - Aaliyah Hall

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 01:01:52 GMT

Aaliyah Hall

On her career choice and plans

As I look ahead, I’m excited to share that I want to become a psychiatrist. I’ve always been
curious about how the mind works and want to help people who are going through tough
times. Being a psychiatrist will let me support others, bring hope and help them heal. I want to spend my life listening, guiding and making a real difference in people’s lives.

Her favorite memory:
As I prepare to leave Dawn Treader Christian School, I want to say thank you and remember the special memories I’ve made here. One of my favorite memories isn’t just one moment, it’s the whole journey. I started unsure and took small steps forward. Sometimes I struggled or doubted myself, but little by little, I rose to the challenges and became better. I was helped by kind teachers, supportive classmates and the strong values of this school.

Those small steps turned into real growth. I didn’t just learn from books, I learned about faith in Christ, hard work and trusting the process. I’ll always be proud of how much I’ve grown at
Dawn Treader and thankful for everything I’ve learned.

To my teachers: thank you for your patience and for believing in me, even when I didn’t believe in myself. To my friends and classmates: thank you for walking this path with me and making school a brighter place. I’ll always remember this school as the place where I found out who I could become.

Proverbs 4:18
"But the path of the righteous is like the light of dawn, which shines brighter and brighter until
full day."

With a full heart,
Aaliyah

DTCS Graduate - Amani Motley

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 01:01:51 GMT

Amani Motley

Amani’s career hopes and dreams:
The career I plan to pursue is Emergency medicine. I enjoy assisting people in times of need,
which is the basis behind this. I like working efficiently and coming up with rapid solutions to
difficulties. Every day is unique, and I would have the opportunity to assist a wide range of people at their most vulnerable moments. I could truly make an impact in this position. Anything can happen at the ER, such as heart attacks, accidents, or someone feeling ill, and I want to be the person who remains calm, responds quickly to the need of others, and hopefully saves lives.

Additionally, emergency physicians are helpful to everyone, regardless of background or
identity. I would be genuinely changing people's lives while constantly learning something new.

Favorite memory at Dawn Treader:
Field Day was an amazing memory because it was a day full of fun and excitement. I got to hang out with my friends, play games and enjoy the outdoors. We cheered each other on during races and team events, and even if we didn’t win, we had a great time trying. It felt good to laugh, run around and just have a break from schoolwork. It was one of those days that brought everyone together and made school feel extra fun. The music, snacks and friendly competitions made the whole day feel like a celebration. It reminded me how important it is to take time to enjoy simple moments and make memories with the people around me.

DTCS Graduate - Isabella Pichardo

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 00:58:04 GMT

Isabella Pichardo

On her career dreams.

I plan to pursue a career as a criminologist because I’ve always been deeply passionate about the criminal justice field. Every year, I attend a police academy where I have been learning fascinating and often eye-opening stories from professionals who currently work or have previously served in law enforcement. Listening to their real-world experiences, the challenges they face, the critical decisions they make, and the meaningful impact they have on their communities has deeply inspired me.

These stories have fueled my curiosity about the justice system. They’ve also strengthened my desire to study crime, understanding, and applying research and critical thinking to help solve real-world criminal problems in law enforcement and public policy.

Her favorite Dawn Treader memory:

My favorite memory at Dawn Treader Christian School is the morning worship sessions, when everyone gathered together to sing and praise. There is something so special about starting the day centered on God. Another memory that stands out to me is our Bible classes. They weren’t all just about learning Scriptures, they were spaces and times where I could ask questions, share my faith, and grow spiritually along with others. Looking back, those experiences shaped my faith in lasting ways and helped me build a stronger foundation in Christ. Throughout those moments, my understanding of God grew, and my faith was strengthened in ways that continue to impact me.

DTCS Graduate - Finn Rodriguez

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 00:58:02 GMT

Finn Rodriguez

Finn’s Career Choice:
I have always had a deep love and respect for animals, and spending time around them brings me a great sense of joy and purpose. I want to become a zookeeper because it would allow me to care for a wide variety of animals while also educating the public about wildlife conservation. This career combines my passion for animals with my desire to make a positive impact on the environment and inspire others to do the same.

Finn’s favorite Dawn Treader memory:
I have many great memories from my time at Dawn Treader, but my favorite memory was Field
Day. It was a time when everyone came together to play games, cheer each other on, and just have fun outside of the classroom. I loved the friendly competition, the laughter, and the
teamwork that made the day so special. It’s a memory I’ll always treasure because it showed
how strong and joyful our school community really is.

The Class of 2025 Shares Their Vision & Favorite Memories

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 00:58:00 GMT

Six students are heading to high school this fall! We recently caught up with them to discuss their career dreams and favorite memories from Dawn Treader. Their aspirations are as diverse as their personalities, ranging from NFL player and criminologist to doctor, zookeeper, psychiatrist, and bodyguard—truly reflecting the unique callings God has placed in each of their hearts.

Among their most cherished Dawn Treader memories are uplifting worship sessions, insightful Bible lessons, significant personal and spiritual growth, forging lifelong friendships, and, of course, the unforgettable Field Day.

Read their interview by clicking on their image.

From Brat to Brave : A Lesson from Dawn Treader

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 00:54:49 GMT

In C.S. Lewis's The Voyage of the Dawn Treader , the unpleasant and self-centered Eustace Scrubb is forced to confront his flaws. Eustace is a whiny, greedy, and generally disagreeable boy. He complains constantly, bullies Lucy and Edmund, and thinks only of his own comfort and desires.

But when Eustace turns into a dragon everything changes. This painful and terrifying experience strips him of his human form, forcing him to see himself as others see him – a monstrous, hoarding creature.

It is only through the intervention of Aslan, who peels away his dragon skin layer by painful layer, that Eustace is restored to his human form. This symbolic act represents the painful but necessary process of shedding his old, selfish self.

Through Eustace we all can learn several crucial lessons:

Humility: We all must acknowledge our flaws and accept help. Our true strength lies not in outward power but in inner Christ-like character and the willingness to be humble. We often need the support and guidance of others to overcome our shortcomings.

Empathy and Consideration for Others: When we are selfish, we often disregard the feelings of those around us. Friendships are to be valued. Cultivating empathy involves actively trying to understand others' feelings and perspectives. This leads to more positive relationships (loving others) and a greater sense of community, mirroring Eustace's eventual integration into the Dawn Treader crew.

The Importance of Inner Character Over Outward Appearance: While a dragon, Eustace is monstrous despite potentially retaining some human thoughts. True identity and value lie within. Being good is not about external appearances or possessions but about one's actions, attitudes, and willingness to grow.

Thankfully, like the characters in the novels, we have our own Aslan - Jesus – who gives us new life and the Holy Spirit to empower us to overcome sin and selfishness—and be able to love and serve God and others. We too can go from brat to brave.

Meet Dana Roberts

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 10:51:20 GMT

Meet Dana Roberts,

Alumnus and President of our First-ever Alumni As sociation

Aslan’s Voice caught up with Dana Roberts recently. Dana is an impressive child of God with a heart for serving the Lord and people, which all sparked at Dawn Treader, her safe space. Here’s what she had to say:

What was your experience like as a Dawn Treader student?
Looking back, I now see that my K-8th grade story at Dawn Treader was always part of God’s intricate design. Psalm 139:13 says, “For you created my inner being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb.” My life was never random. God’s hands were shaping every step, even when I didn’t understand. At the age of five, while most children in public housing attended public schools, I woke up every morning, put on my uniform, and took the journey to Dawn Treader Christian School (DTCS).

There, I met Ms. Young, who greeted me each morning with a warm smile and kind words. But Dawn Treader was more than just a school—it was a sanctuary. The teachers weren’t just educators; they were united in purpose, committed to teaching both academics and the Word of God. They modeled love, faith, and unwavering commitment to the body of Christ. Their influence went far beyond the classroom. They built a community—a family. Inside those walls, I was safe.I loved DTCS school so much that I would cry if I had to miss a day.

I would lay under my covers at night, reading by flashlight, eager to return to that sacred space. As the years passed, my life outside of school continued, and in the eighth grade, a friend invited me to try out for the city’s recreation basketball league. I made the team that night. Every day after, I wore shorts under my skirt so I could practice layups during recess. That one invitation led to junior varsity, then varsity and finally a Division 1 scholarship. I believe my entire life story begins at DTCS and look how God's plan brought me back to my beginning!

Wh ere did you attend college?
I attended Savannah State University in Savannah Georgia, this is where that one invitation from my Dawn Treader friend led me. I was the captain of my team and later Assistant Women's Basketball Coach, I believe that it was my destiny to attend Savannah State. I lived in Savannah for eight years in total a nd it was there, I would later have my daughter.

How did Dawn Treader prepare you for success as a student, athlete and professionally--and as a Chris tian making a difference in the world?

DTCS introduced me to Christ, I was taught to trust in Christ from an early age, that factor alone, is the key to every success in my life. I attended public high school in my sophomore year after 11 years of Christian Ed, the difference was obvious. I learned and was in fact challenged in my public education. However, the covering of Christ, throughout the building, over the faculty and staff, in the teaching, was not present, and that's the difference Christian Education makes.

What would you like to say to supporters of Dawn Treader?
As believers in Christ, we are called to discipleship, and the greatest gift is receiving Christ in your life and being taught to live a life that reflects the same. That begins with opportunity and exposure. Supporting DTCS means you are assisting in building the Kingdom of God. The key to achieving excellence begins with a strong foundation and Dawn Treader provides that opportunity. Pouring into our children, our f uture, ensures that they are skilled leaders ready to lead with Christ, in this world. That's the goal!

7 Things to know About Pastor Charles

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 10:51:18 GMT

1. He served as a corrections officer in Passaic County before joining Dawn Treader.
2. He is the father of four children, all girls.
3. He has been married for 25 years, and last month celebrated that milestone anniversary.
4. He is the founder of King of Kings Worship Ministries and City Impact in Paterson.
5. He is a traveling missionary, often serving people in the Dominican Republic.
6. He has served in ministry in Paterson for 30 years and has a heart for children, young
adults and Christian education.
7. He names his dogs after characters from the Little Rascals.

Bonus Fact:
He will never shave his beard.

Meet Maria Rivera Jones

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 10:51:17 GMT

My prayer has always been "Blessed are those who fear the Lord, who find great delight in His commands. Their children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed." Psalm 112:1-2

Meet Maria Rivera Jones,

Dawn Treader Parent & Board Member

Here is the Aslan’s Voice interview with Maria Rivera Jones:

1. Why did you choose Dawn Treader for your child?
I came to know Jesus when my daughter was two years old. I knew immediately that we wanted her to have a Christian education. My husband and I felt it was important for her early years to know the Word of God and learn about a relationship with her Heavenly Father. We learned about Dawn Treader Christian School (DTCS) through a friend at our church and we were so blessed when she was accepted to attend in kindergarten.

2. How was the experience for your family?
We loved that her academic environment was filled with caring and nurturing staff. DTCS felt like an extension of our home. At home, we raised our daughter to be surrounded by love, and encouragement, in a peaceful and caring environment. We believe DTCS offered these same values during her school day. I had complete trust in her teachers and the staff. These values shaped her formative years.

What would you like to say to the supporters who helped make tuition possible?
My husband and I were blessed to provide my daughter private Christian education. It was our responsibility as parents to give her the best opportunity for a strong biblical and academic foundation. However, today, many parents in Paterson do not have the means to invest in their child's education. Oftentimes, they choose public school education as their only option. Now more than ever, we need young leaders in the inner city to be molded through Christian education.

Supporters are a lifeline who can shape our next generation of Christian leaders. We need to continue investing in making disciples of Christ who thrive in the marketplace and committed supporters can bless families who do not have the means to raise children with a godly education.

What is your child doing today?
My daughter graduated from Caldwell University in 2016 and today she works as Assistant Vice President in Finance Transformation at Citi Bank, New York City.

How do you feel DTCS prepared her for success in life and as a child of God?
I recall during her early years when part of her homework assignments required her to memorize scripture. Not only was the Word of God an anchor for her soul, but also a seed that continues to reap a thousandfold blessing in her life. DTCS prepared her to be a good steward, a good manager, ethical, faithful, and diligent in all her responsibilities. The Word of God has been faithful in both of my children's lives. My prayer has always been "Blessed are those who fear the Lord, who find great delight in His commands. Their children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed." Psalm 112:1-2

Anything else you want readers to know?
Although my children are no longer at DTCS, I have remained involved in DTCS serving God's purposes. It is a delight and honor to be a Board Member. I believe my greatest calling is to expand His kingdom and I am blessed to be doing so by supporting Christian education.

Saved to Serve A Lesson from Narnia

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 10:51:15 GMT

In the early 1970s there was a group of Christians who gathered as a missional prayer group to help provide Christian Education for students of Paterson and Passaic who could not afford it. They purchased the current building, which had been abandoned for nearly 40 years in July 1977 with the school opening in September.

The decision had been made to name the school Dawn Treader, borrowed from the CS Lewis book The Voyage of the Dawn Treader, one of seven of the Chronicles of Narnia.

Pastor Stan VanderKlay, of Northside Chapel CRC and ECUMP Board member, preached at the Sunrise service the day before the school opened and explained in his sermon the reason for this name.

I quote from Stan’s message as recorded in his book Chains of Grace:

“The Son of God was incarnated in Narnia as a large golden lion named Aslan, who had once offered himself to be slaughtered, but then came alive again to save the Narnians from the corruption of sin which had entered that world. Dawn Treader was a sailing ship on a royal mission to the East, toward Aslans’s country.

Three children of our world were looking at a picture of that Viking-type, single sail ship with its dragon head and tail splashing through the waves when suddenly they began to get wet and then found themselves drawn into the real Narnian seas. Rescued by the Dawn Treader they spent more than a year on that mission having many adventures and learning much about life and faith.

“Near the end they were directed to go to the side shore of the sea. Aslan met them there, opened a door in the sky which ushed them back into their real world and told them that there they would come to know him by a different name. Their voyage on the DT would help them learn how to live Christianly back at home.

“Dawn Treaders are people of the Son” was our motto. In this living history lesson, in a mill where children once worked long, hard days weaving sild, brightness would now be woven into their lives, so that with Christ as the center of everything, their voyage in our Dawn Treader would, we prayed, empower them to live relevantly for Christ in the real world .”

Jesus saves us to live in a relationship with God not just so we can go to heaven after we die, but so we can live out Christ’s mission while we live. We are “saved to serve.”

Just like Aslan sent the children back to their world Jesus sends us out into His world to carry out his mission of “making disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey all that I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19

Our goal is to disciple each child at Dawn Treader to follow Jesus so they can then also make disciples.

Thank you for all you do to help our students on their academic and Jesus- following journey.

Easter in Narnia?

Fri, 04 Apr 2025 12:44:05 GMT

Dawn Treader is named after the ship in the Chronicles of Narnia series. As such many of the books’ themes are also taught to our students via chapel messages and in the classroom. Easter is the perfect time to reflect on some of these themes—and on Aslan the mighty lion (Jesus).

As you read the themes below, please think about your own childhood memories and how important these were (and are) to your spiritual growth.

Christianity:
The story uses allegorical elements, like the talking lion Aslan, to represent the Christian journey, suggesting that faith can be challenging but ultimately transformative.

Growing Up and Selflessness:
Eustace, a character who is initially selfish, undergoes a transformation, learning the value of companionship and helping others. His journey highlights how selfishness can lead to isolation, while selflessness can foster purpose and connection.

Temptation:
The characters encounter situations that test their moral compass, such as the temptation of greed or power. These moments highlight the importance of resisting temptation and making choices that align with one's values.

The search for the divine:
The story also explores the desire of human beings to grow in their character, to become better people, and of the search for the divine in this life, and the hope for something beautiful in the next.

The Christmas and Easter connection:
A life without Jesus (darkness) is best reflected by these lines from the book - “It is winter in Narnia,” said Mr. Tumnus, “and has been for ever so long…. always winter, but never Christmas.”

How sad a world without Christmas would be. We rejoice because after Christmas we know there is Easter! When Aslan gave his life for Eustace’s sin on the slab, he broke the curse of “winter!” Jesus took our sin on the cross and broke the curse of death! Like Aslan, Jesus rose in real life to real life!

That’s good news! May the peace of Christ be with you always as you journey with us on the Dawn Treader.

Q&A with Cathy Jobson, Volunteer at DTCS

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 00:50:59 GMT

I first heard about Dawn Treader School several years ago and was introduced to Pastor Charles Salinas at a local fundraising event . I began receiving the school’s newsletter and learning more about Dawn Treader. At the time, I was volunteering at another school in Paterson and that opportunity ended when the Covid-19 pandemic started.

A couple years ago, I approached Pastor Charles about volunteering after school or during the school hours to help the students with Math. I provide one-on-one assistance to those children who might need extra time or help to understand the Math facts being taught.

It is so rewarding to see how that little extra time helps them understand the concepts better. I love seeing the “light-bulb” go on.

I always want to be a light for Christ, an encouragement to the students and teachers, and to make a difference one student at a time. The more love a child feels each day the more likely they are to like themselves and be kind and loving to others.

I love the family feel that permeates in everything at Dawn Treader and that all the teachers and staff are caring Christians.

If you’d like to volunteer and make a difference at Dawn Treader too, please contact Dr. Ken Welch (the school’s principal) or Pastor Charles Salinas (executive director) via the link BELOW .

You will be a blessing to others and so blessed in return.

Your Gifts in Action - A Progress Report

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 07:15:11 GMT

Dear Partner,

In The Chronicles of Narnia, Aslan the Lion is not only the King and creator of Narnia but also the captain of the ship Dawn Treader. Similarly, we have made the intentional decision to make Jesus, our Lion King, the captain and Lord of our school. He is the One who guides and directs our path, the source of our strength and purpose, just as Aslan is in the world of Narnia.

With His leadership and love, we trust that under His authority, our school will continue to thrive both spiritually and academically. It is my privilege to share with you the wonderful accomplishments that, by God’s grace, we achieved this school year as an educational community. At Dawn Treader Christian School, we believe that every child in Paterson deserves the opportunity to experience a Christian education filled with love, values and academic excellence. This year, we are overjoyed to celebrate a 10% increase in enrollment, which is a clear reflection of God’s faithfulness. We are grateful for the collective effort and dedication that has made this possible, and it is with great honor that we share the fruits of this ministry of Christian education with you.

"Thank you for your continued support. With God’s help, we are confident that the best is yet to come".

Accreditation through ACSI (Association of Christian Schools International)

One of the greatest milestones we reached this year is obtaining accreditation from ACSI, the Association of Christian Schools International. This recognition validates the high standards of education we strive to provide and serves as a testimony to the unwavering dedication and hard work of our teachers and leaders. Their commitment to teaching with excellence, while honoring God in all they do, is evident in this significant achievement. We are excited about the new opportunities this accreditation will bring for our students, both academically and in their spiritual growth.

Renovation of 219 Windows in the School

This year, we were also blessed to complete the renovation of 219 windows across our school. This project, made possible by the generous support of our community, has enhanced the security and comfort of our school environment and symbolizes the renewal that God works within us.

Just as we continue to renew and improve our facilities, we also seek spiritual renewal, striving to align our hearts and actions with God’s will in all areas of our lives.

Expansion of Programs and Classroom Improvements

Looking ahead, we are committed to expanding our educational programs and further enhancing our classrooms. We understand the importance of providing a nurturing learning environment where students can grow academically, socially and spiritually. Our goal is to offer programs that enrich the whole child, developing knowledge, character and faith. We trust God will continue to bless the growth and success of our school, and we eagerly anticipate the direction He will lead us in the coming years

I Pray that We Continue Forward with Faith and Hope

I pray that this message touches your heart and inspires you to continue partnering with us in this important work. Every prayer, every contribution, and every act of support leaves an eternal impact on the lives of our students. Together, as the Dawn Treader family, we can continue moving forward, trusting that the Lord will lead us into a future that will bear much fruit for His glory.

We invite you to share this testimony with others who may be a blessing to our school and the mission God has entrusted to us. Thank you for your continued support. With God’s help, we are confident that the best is yet to come.

With gratitude and blessings,

Pastor Charles Salinas