At Gem State Adventist Academy, there is an intentional plan to form a cohesive family right from day one — a family with God at the center, covering the campus with His perfect love for each person.
Before 79 students arrived to begin the school year in August 2025, the school family and community were invited to a prayer walk on campus. Groups walked through the administration building, cafeteria and residence hall, stopping to pray in each classroom, office and space where students and staff live life during the school year. This annual event is a powerful way to dedicate the year to God and cover the school and all who enter in prayer.
At the end of the first week, students, staff and families enjoyed a delicious picnic meal on campus before traveling to nearby Lizard Butte for a long-standing, traditional first vespers. The worship team led in songs, and Jason Williams, Cloverdale Church member, gave the devotional message. From Lizard Butte there is a beautiful view of the Snake River and the valley, and the cross at the top provides an excellent backdrop to worship God as the sun sets.
A few days later, the entire school went to Boise to help set up the Love Heals free medical clinic, with a number of students and church members choosing to go back Sabbath afternoon for further service opportunities. That same weekend, freshmen enjoyed a class campout, which ended with them meeting the rest of the school at Camp Ida-Haven for the annual, multi-day spiritual retreat.
At Camp Ida-Haven, ASB planned fun activities for students to interact and get to know one another. Everyone participated in service activities in and around camp, and a guest speaker gave spiritual messages related to the school year's theme, "To Show."
Kircio Mota, Collegedale Church youth pastor from Tennessee, spoke on the fruits of the Spirit. The retreat’s blessings included the celebration of the baptism of Kayden Tabor, GSAA senior, who requested to be baptized while at camp.
All of this, along with the important matter of excellence in academics, makes for a busy beginning to a school year, but it is an important way to start. All of it fits with the school mission of engaging in service, training in leadership and preparing for eternity.
Kayden Tabor is baptized during the spiritual retreat at Camp Ida-Haven by Ever Perez, GSAA Bible teacher and chaplain.
Freshmen help make firewood on their campout.
The school year begins with a corn feed, a great way to start getting to know new students.
Lizard Butte vespers is an annual event held on the first Friday evening of the school year.
Students gather for vespers on the first Friday evening of the school year.
