schoolbell

Fall 2014
HIGHLAND CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
How to Be:
....Becoming who He wants us to BE
from
the
cover
HCS Mission Statement
In order to honor God,
we nurture and guide students
to see the Father’s creation
to sense order in a world saved by Christ
to serve God through the leading
of the Holy Spirit
God’s Amazing
Creation
First graders observed how God has done some incredible things with the
monarch butterfly. We watched the monarch caterpillar eat a lot of milk weed
leaves in order to grow big enough for its change. Then we saw how God
designed a chrysalis to form around the caterpillar, so it was camouflaged
and protected. After ten days, we saw the chrysalis break open and a beautiful
butterfly emerged! The students learned that God gave monarchs genetic
instructions of when and where to fly. They migrate from the Northern United
States to Mexico, over 1,000 miles each way!
Contact us
3040 Ridge Road, Highland, Indiana 46322
219-838-0356
www.highlandchristian.org
Interim Principal, 2014-2015
Jim VanZyl
Assistant to the Principal
Karin Brown
Executive Secretary
Jody Moes
Director of Recruitment
and Development
Jodi Lineburg
School bell layout
Christina Woo
2014-15 Boards of Directors
School Board
FOUNDATION Board
Jim Bandstra
Paul Armendariz
Dwayne Evenhouse Jennifer Borrero
Jerry Kuiper
Dwayne Evenhouse
Craig Menninga
Jill Feikema
Gary Meter
Tricia Groot
Larry Otte
Roger Harasty
Ryan Terpstra
Darla Kinkade
Ed Saxsma
Craig Menninga
Frank Van Til
Wayne Scheeringa
Chris Yonkman
Frank Van Til
Roger Yonkman
2 schoolbell Fall 2014
God sure has a plan for the monarch
butterfly, and He has a more amazing
plan for us.
God changes us when we ask Jesus into our hearts.
God guides us and helps us to be more like Him, so we can achieve his
marvelous plans.
Grandparents’ Day
On Friday, October 17, Highland Christian students
welcomed their grandparents and special friends to
our annual Grandparents’ Day. The morning started
out with a delicious brunch served by the 8th graders.
Then, the grandparents had an hour to visit their
grandchildren in the classrooms. They were able to
see the classrooms, special projects the students had
done, meet teachers, and experience the school. Many
grandparents had more than one student to visit
and kept busy going from room to room!
After the classroom visits, the
grandparents gathered in the gym again.
They were led in devotions by Mr. Jim
Van Zyl. Mr. Van Zyl was principal here
previously, and is our Interim Principal
this year. The students then presented
a program, led by music teacher Mr.
Mark Rinkenberger. The program was
based on Micah 6:8, our theme verse
this year. The kindergarten through 2nd
grade students shared songs that spoke
of acting justly, loving mercy, and walking
humbly with God. When the 3rd through
5th grade students sang, they also shared a skit
that showed how to live out Micah 6:8. The morning ended
with a slide show of the students at our school. The students
enjoyed sharing their school with grandparents and the
grandparents had a great time visiting as well.
Modeling the Motto
It’s always fun to spot a Norman Rockwell type moment and
capture it on camera. I’d only been working at HCS for a few days
when I captured a picture of Principal Van Zyl helping a student knot
his tie for picture day. Not all moments at the school are like that,
but there are a lot of them. What struck me about this picture was the
way it embodied humility in the service of children - very much in
line with this year’s school theme or motto which stands out as you
drive past the school. Micah 6:8: “Act justly, love mercy, and walk
humbly with your God.”
Having known Principal Van Zyl as my own principal for three of the
years I taught at Roseland Christian, I knew that this picture was no
fluke. And the school’s theme has been my own personal mission
statement for a long time. This was one of those “God moments” in
which the ‘Spirit’ of a place is made manifest in one point in time.
I’m happy to work in service to HCS and to be the grandparent of
one of its students, Skylar Van Til.
Written by Cheri Flory, Leveled Reading Teacher
Fall 2014
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S.E.L.L.
Highland Christian School is blessed with many new families and
students this school year. We thank God for this tremendous blessing
and want to welcome each child and family into our Highland
Christian School community. I want to encourage everyone to do
their part to be welcoming to each student and their family. One of
the greatest kindnesses that can be offered is a genuine interest in
learning to know our new families and to reconnect with families that
have returned to Highland Christian School.
On my office door is the acronym S.E.L.L. This is a reminder for me
to act intentionally to learn more about the parents and grandparents
belonging to our students. I am challenging myself to move from
the casual, “hello”, which is being friendly, to
meaningful communication which brings greater
understanding of one another. Let me explain.
The S represents to SEEK out people with whom
I am not acquainted. This is not a casual “hi, how
are you?” encounter. This requires a conscious and
intentional effort to approach someone who is
waiting or picking up students at school, parents
that come into the office, or those coming to an
event at Highland Christian School. E represents
to ENGAGE someone in meaningful dialogue. This
also requires an intentional action, purposeful
and calculated, inquiring about how they found
Highland Christian or asking if they could tell me a
little about who they are. This expresses showing an
interest in what is important to someone and letting
it be interesting to me. The key is to be intentional
and calculated. If I am able to value who they are,
I honor the decision they have made to be part
of Highland Christian School. There is purpose
and calculation. The first L represents to LISTEN;
listening with the goal of understanding what is
important to someone else. Answers or responses
to open ended questions will illicit meaningful
response of things that are important to people.
Giving someone your undivided attention tells them
they are important. I value people by showing a
genuine interest in what they tell me and about who
they are. I need to be eager and willing to listen. The
second L gets to the goal of why this is an important
plan. LEARN (caring) is the outcome. This is a place
and a way to start. Starting in this way allows you to
move to even more meaningful communication.
This is important, why? Striving to live in
community with each other needs to start with
SELL. Being authentic and inclusive in community
is a worthwhile endeavor. If we have the hope of
living and sharing years together at the same school,
attending the same program with other parents
in the same grade level, attending sports events
together, or even to share our brokenness with each
other; this takes beginning to engage each other
in meaningful listening. How neat would that be
for Highland Christian School to be known as an
authentic community which values all families
from diverse walks of life, but joined together in
understanding and love for each other!
Mr. Jim Van Zyl, Principal
4 schoolbell Fall 2014
Sonshine
Enrichment
Center
Hello from Sonshine Enrichment Center! We have 106 students in 7 different classes. Students are getting used to the routines
of their days and teachers are getting to know their students well. In September our students and many chaperones visited
County Line Orchard. God blessed us with gorgeous, dry weather. Wagon riding, apple picking, cider tasting, bee observation,
animal feeding and observing were experienced by all.Oh, and riding on the bus is always an experience that pre-kers enjoy☺!
We look forward to Grandparents’ Day and a visit to a pumpkin farm in October.
God continues to bless SEC with generous supporters of our program. We were able to
purchase Big Books for classroom use and a Butterfly Life Cycle Puzzle for hands-on
learning. We are most
grateful for these
donations that allow
us to enhance our
program.
We are working on
learning what it
means to act justly,
love kindness, and
walk humbly with
God. Continue to
pray for our students
and teachers, and that
students will learn to
grow in the knowledge
of our Lord.
4th Grade
Chapel
The 4th graders put on a little skit when it was their turn
to lead chapel in October. Since they are learning about
the judges, they chose to do a skit about Gideon defeating
the Midianites. The story shows how God’s power is all
we need when defeating the battles in our lives.
Fall 2014
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Something
New –
Everyday
Math
Rising to New Heights
The eighth grade year can be an interesting one, due to the number of
opportunities it affords. For example, eighth graders have traditionally traveled
to Chicago in the spring to participate in an architectural scavenger hunt. Also
in the spring, they provided needed hands to assist in the Highland Christian
School Auction. This year’s class began a new activity: a retreat at Camp
Manitoqua in Frankfort, Illinois.
On Monday, October 13, the 8th grade class spent the day at the camp. The
morning consisted of various group activities involving leadership, group
cooperation, and problem solving. As students worked together on these
activities, the leaders drew various lessons from the Bible and applied them
to the specific situations. A specific example of one activity involved students
working together to move the whole group across four platforms using three
boards. At times, the group had to communicate without talking, a time in
which the group actually performed better. Another activity involved climbing
up a wall with the assistance of two leaders at the top.
At midday, the students had lunch in a picnic pavilion. Students brought their
own lunch and beverages and ate at picnic tables.
After lunch, the students split into two groups. One group worked together on
the zip line, while another group navigated the high ropes. For some students,
this was a completely new experience and although very safe, it also seemed
scary. Others had done this many times previously in summer sessions at Camp
Manitoqua or Camp Roger. Following these activities, the leaders summarized
the activities and the students prepared to depart.
Overall, the experience was judged to be positive. It is therefore likely that
this outdoor spiritual retreat will continue as a new eighth grade activity into
the future.
Mr. Mark Brink recently submitted his resignation releasing him from his
contract as Junior High Bible teacher. Mr. Brink taught at Highland Christian
School for the past 11 years. During that time he taught Bible to students
in grades 6, 7, and 8. The Brinks are moving to Michigan where he has a
position with the Haworth Corporation. We will miss Mr. Brink and are
sorry that he has made the decision to resign his position. We thank him
for his service at Highland Christian School; we wish him Godspeed and
God’s blessing on his relocation. Mr. Brink is working with administration to
facilitate a smooth transition for a replacement on our Junior High staff.
6 schoolbell Fall 2014
Highland Christian School is on a
pursuit of challenging our students to
understand mathematics and not just
know arithmetic. Past MAP (Measures
of Academic Progress) scores indicated
a need for greater emphasis in the
instructional areas of Number Sense and
Operations, Measurement and Data,
and Algebraic thinking. EM (Everyday
Math) provides a rigorous and balanced
content, where its strengths mirror the
above mentioned areas of deficiency.
Everyday Math emphasizes conceptual
understanding of mathematics while
building mastery of basic skills.
EM’s instruction is focused on how
students learn, while exploring a
broad mathematics application and
associated mathematic situations, not
just basic arithmetic. EM teaches in a
repeated fashion (spiraling) beginning
with concrete experiences presented
at a brisk pace of instruction, with
multiple exposures and with frequent
opportunities for review and practice.
Everyday Math helps children gain
proficiency through continual practice.
Assessment tools are built into the
program’s design, allowing teachers
to monitor students’ progress through
assessment closely linked to instruction.
Everyday Math works hard to provide
opportunities for parent involvement.
EM’s non-traditional innovation
involves families in the learning
process in the Home Connections or
Study Links. Almost every lesson in
EM’s program includes Study Link
homework assignments. Parents can
become actively involved in their child’s
mathematical education.
Parents were invited to Math Parent
Nights at the beginning of October.
An explanation of Everyday Math’s
approach to teaching mathematics was
presented and parents were given the
opportunity to see up close some of the
strategies employed in the classrooms.
Global Application of Christian Education HCS Teacher and Student Put Mission In Action
God’s Littlest Angels
In October Mrs. Evers took her 7th grade daughter,
Kaylee, on a mission trip to Haiti. In Haiti they
worked for an orphanage called God’s Littlest
Angels. Children are at this orphanage because
their parents are too poor to take care of their
own children or they were abandoned after the
earthquake. Through funding from sponsorships
and private donors, these children are clothed,
fed, and given a Christian education. This mission
trip was a tremendous experience for both Mrs.
Evers and Kaylee. They were able to help get the
orphanage ready by painting and cleaning their
new school and living quarters. The highlight of
the trip was being able to spend time with the
children of the orphanage. They were so precious,
loving and grateful that they were there to spend
time with them. Highland Christian School was
a huge blessing to these children as well. Kaylee
had requested some of the needs of the orphanage
in chapel, and the outpouring of donations was
incredible. Due to this community’s generosity, they
were able to bring six suitcases full of donations
to help God’s Littlest Angels Orphanage with
their ministry. It is so wonderful to be part of a
community that is so supportive of reaching all
God’s children. Mrs. Evers and Kaylee were honored
to represent the community of HCS in Haiti. It is
truly a country with beautiful people and was a life
changing experience for them both.
Fall 2014
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Art Walk
This year, the Main Street Volunteer Committee of
Highland asked our students to participate in an art
show in the business district of downtown Highland.
The students were excited about this opportunity and
worked diligently on their projects. The theme of this
show was “Fall in Highland”. Fifty students from HCS
were asked to have their fall projects displayed during the
months of October and November. A huge thank-you
to Joanna Smith, a resident of Highland and a member
of the committee, who matted each project and gave it
to the businesses to be displayed. This was our first time
participating in this project,
but we hope it is not our last!
8 schoolbell Fall 2014
7th Grade Girls’ Volleyball
Our 7th Grade Girls’ Volleyball Team had a good
year. The team was comprised of Isabel Arndt,
Olivia DeYoung, Clarissa Koutz, Anna Lenting,
Shiloh Lewis, Savannah Morgan, Kayla Sylvester,
Angelina Verastegui, and Madeline Zandstra.
While their record does not show the team’s
incredible progress, each of the players increased
in skills and significantly improved from their
first day. They each worked very hard in practice
to develop skills, and did well to keep positive
with their teammates. Huge kudos to Christina
and Bella Verastegui, as they both were a huge
help in supporting practices to make them
more effective, as well as providing additional
motivation during games.
Two memorable moments: winning their first
game against Crown Point, where the girls
almost exploded with excitement and the official
had to help move us along to the next game,
as the girls were so busy celebrating. Next most
memorable is another single game win and then
a first match win during the Calvary Academy
Tournament, as again, the joy overtook them
and their faces really lit up. It will be great to see
this more experienced “Hustlin’ Huskies” team
next year!!
Coach Koutz
8th Grade Girls’ Volleyball
This year, on paper, the season proved
to be a challenging one for the 8th
grade team with winning just one game
during the regular season. But every
year the primary goal is to prepare the
girls for high school volleyball. This
year was no different. Many of this
year’s matches were pushed to three
games, and the girls have learned
and become equipped with the game
strategies of high school volleyball.
Nice job girls! Highlights for 2014:
through pool play at Calvary Academy
Tournament, the girls earned a 2nd
seed going into tournament play.
Team members: Abby Ebbens, Sarah
O’Riley, Sarah Mapes, Jessica Bell, Jada
Boyd, Lily Laballiere, Hannah Last,
Macy Margherio, Julia Oostema, Aslynn
Riemersma, Tori Ruffolo
Coach Porter
Fall 2014
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A Team Soccer
The Huskies 2014 “A” Soccer
Team played outstanding soccer
this year. Out of all the teams
that competed, our team had
the league best record of 10-1-1.
Incredibly, the team scored 53
regular season goals while only
giving up 8 goals all year. Even
more telling is that the team had
7 shut-outs in the regular season
and then one more in the league
tournament! That is indicative of
a team playing as a “team” and
not relying on one star.
Led by 8th graders Heidi
Bultema and Kyle Mulderink from last year’s team, we saw five new 8th graders on the team this year: Matt Fulton, Joshua Otte,
Brayan Mata, Connor Robertson and Isaac Sytsma. Thanks also to 8th grader Christopher Koutz, who helped the team in its
first few games. Also returning to the team were the group of 7th graders who had played so well as 6th graders (remember in
the previous year we played 8 six graders on a team that lost in the tournament finals, 1-0). Coming back strong this year was:
Anna Delahunty, Kaylee Evers, James Klapak, Joshua Matiscik, Lance Mulderink, Eddie Spoelman and Riley Woodward. Two
newcomers to the team as 7th graders were Alex Sanchez and Lexi Terpstra. New this year was Eric Evers who assisted Coach
Mike Matiscik, and that greatly helped our defensive effort.
The season had many memorable moments, but the one we will all remember is the penalty kick that James Klapak stopped.
He made an incredible defensive play as a goalie in our 1-0 victory over a very good Crown Point team. Although the team did
not win the league tournament, they came out winners as they grew in their soccer ability. Good job, Huskies!
B Team Soccer
The “B” Soccer Team had a
great year. It was a large team
consisting of first year players
and students that have played for
several years. One highlight was
our big win against Oak Lawn
where we allowed no goals and
scored five goals. I look forward
to seeing how each student
improves in the coming years.
Team members: Chris Koutz,
Ronald Bass, Katie Dykstra, Erin
Yonkman, Emma Groot, Sam
Delahunty, Dante’ Sullivan,
Matthew Groot, Simon Molenaar,
Sam Vargo, Josh Sylvester, Mikey
Moore, Najaah Brandon, Ethan
Reynhout, Makayla Hoeksema,
Josh Parodi, and Quintin Cheairs.
Coach Krooswyk
10 schoolbell Fall 2014
Huskies Cross Country
Here They Go Again: Boys and Girls Teams Bring Home the Hardware
On Wednesday, October 15, the Highland Huskies cross country teams finished their seasons on a high note. Our boys finished
first – for their third time this season and fourth time in four years– and our girls matched that, taking home their second first
place trophy this season. It was a fine finish for them.
Rebuilding a Team and Breaking a Record
Our girls’ team began the year facing what appeared to be a daunting rebuilding project. Two solid runners from last year
did not return to Highland Christian. This left the team wondering whether or not there would be enough members to
compete. Fortunately, the situation turned out well. Two new sixth graders joined the team this year and turned in consistent
performances: Emily Prince and Sophia Thompson. Two seventh graders from last year returned and demonstrated tremendous
growth: Kaylee Evers and Lauren Woo. Two solid eighth graders rounded out the team: Heidi Bultema and Cate Peerbolte. Cate
celebrated her fourth year running cross country by leading the team in bringing home two first place trophies. Additionally,
she broke the girls’ school record of 10:09 set by Emma Pawlowski in 2009. Cate broke it handily with a time of 9:49.
Another Incredible Year for the Incredible Pack
Isaac Sytsma led the Huskies this year by taking a first place finish in each invitational. He was supported by Kyle Mulderink,
Marc Prince, James Klapak, Lance Mulderink, Alex Sanchez, Josh Matiscik, and Simon Molenaar. This group ran very well
together and was able to dominate the top ten individual places in all of their races, as well as take team firsts in each meet. A
team highlight this season was running for the first time in the Bishop Noll Invitational and beat 9 other schools for a team
first. Finally, Isaac Sytsma broke his own school record of 8:26 with a new record of 8:04. Additionally, it ties the Illiana course
record set by Nick Wondaal in 2011. This is a record that promises to stand for a long time.
It was a pleasure to coach these teams this year and watch their progress over the season. I will miss the eighth grade runners
who will be leaving; however, it’s exciting to contemplate what the next year holds with a great group of runners returning.
Coach Vander Woude
Fall 2014
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Upcoming Events
Dec. 18 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . … Christmas Concert 6:30 p.m.
Beginning Band and Junior High Band/Choir
Dec. 19. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No School for SEC
Dec. 19. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HCS 1:45 Dismissal
Dec. 22 - Jan. 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Christmas Vacation
Jan. 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . School Resumes
Jan. 12 . . . Kindergarten & SEC Open House 6:30–8:00 p.m.
Jan. 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Magazine Sale Begins
Jan. 14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End of 2nd Qtr.
Jan. 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Martin Luther King Day-No School
Jan. 27 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Culvers Day
Jan. 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ISSMA-Wind, Percussion, String
Christmas Concert
Featuring Beginning Band, Jr. High Band and Choir
Thursday, December 18, 2014
6:30pm HCS Gymnasium
Live Auction
with Bake Sale
Feb. 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Science Fair
Feb. 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ISSMA-Vocal, Piano
Feb.12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Skating Party 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Feb. 13 . . . . . . . . . . . . . School Improvement - No School HCS
Feb. 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Presidents’ Day - No School
Feb. 24 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Soup Supper
March-TBA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Community Building Event
March 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kindergarten Screening
March 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . HCS Open House
March 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Illiana Jr. High Band Festival
March 19 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . K-5 Spring Program
March 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End 3rd Qtr.
March 30 – April 5. . . . . . . . . . . . Spring Vacation - No School
Saturday, April 25
April 6. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . School Resumes
The 2015 Auction Committee is hard at work planning for
this year’s event. The committee would like to encourage
everyone to come – especially newcomers! Enjoy a night out
to support our school in an evening of fun, fellowship and
good food. The auction has something for everyone!
April 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . School Improvement – 1:45 Dismissal
April 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Red Robin Day
April 10 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Service Day
April 17 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . No School for SEC
April 25 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Live Auction and Bake Sale
May 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Annual Society Meeting - 7:30 p.m.
May 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Staff Appreciation Day
2015 Auction Committee Members
Bob Crowel
Joyce Groen
Vicki Huizenga
Joe and Amanda Porter
Henry Groot
Tim and Joanne Delahunty
Gary Meter
Ryan and Nikki Terpstra
Jeff and Kristi Thompson
12 schoolbell Fall 2014
Rick Vander Woude
Vonda Wiltjer
Judy H. Zandstra
Jerry Kuiper
Roberta Huitsing
Chris and Darla Kinkade
Brian and Kristin Norman
Dan and Mandy Aardsma
May 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kindergarten Roundup
May 7, 8. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Junior High Musical
May 18, 19. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SEC Last Days
May 20. . . SEC Graduation for Kindergarten-Bound Students
May 21 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . SEC Picnic
May 25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Memorial Day - No School
May 28. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Band & Choir Program – 6:30 p.m.
June 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . End of 4th Qtr.
June 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Last Day - 1:45 Dismissal
June 4. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8th Grade Graduation
foundation
The purpose of HCS’s Foundation Board is to
promote the long-term viability of Highland Christian
School by growing the assets of the Foundation, and
receiving, managing and administering funds and
property for the exclusive use and benefit of Highland
Christian School.
At our last meeting in September 2014, we welcomed
a new board member: Jennifer Borrero. We also
confirmed the officers of the Foundation Board:
Darla Kinkade as President, Wayne Scheeringa as
Vice President, Roger Yonkman as Treasurer, Paul
Armendariz as Secretary and supported by other
Foundation Board members: Frank Van Til, Dwayne
Evenhouse, Jill Feikema, Tricia Groot, Roger Harasty,
and Craig Menninga.
Roger Yonkman reported on the Financials and
Investment Reports.
We are pleased to report that
total net assets as of fiscal year-end 7/31/14 are at $2,060,370.
This is one of the biggest highlights of the year
that we have topped the $2m mark.
This is a big mile-marker! We are truly blessed by the constituents
that have contributed and continue to support the school,
and are eternally grateful
Jill Feikema gave an update on the Legacy Prayer Plaza
and mentioned a special mailing for Christmas.
for God’s faithfulness!
Tricia Groot gave reports on S.P.I.C.E. and etc…a resale
marketplace. Net profit is down 9% from the last fiscal
year. The damage from the storm on August 23rd has
been repaired. Tricia also reported on Comp-Renew,
indicating that this project is still in the works.
Also, in response to a request from the School Board, the
Foundation Board will be making its donation to the school in
two installments (December and May) to fund the gifts the school
is distributing in these months as a credit to families’ tuition
statements.
Frank Van Til provided a report on the Strategic
Planning Committee. The goal of this committee is
to look to the future exploring financial projections,
demographic projections, anticipated changes in
the classrooms and teaching techniques, as well as
discussion around continued changes in technology
and effective communication.
Lastly, I’ve also been asked to comment from a personal perspective
- - as a parent with 2 children in Highland Christian and another
that will be in Sonshine next year. I realize more and more every
day the importance of a long-term plan. It’s important to balance
the good years and the tougher years to maintain stability for the
school. This requires a board of people that is willing to dedicate
its time and resources. We’ve been blessed with a great group
of people whose common interest (among other things) is the
vitality of Highland Christian School. As a parent, I am grateful
for this community of believers that comes together to invest in
our children, including my own. On that note, I’d like to end by
saying “Thank You” to the teachers and staff at HCS, as well as the
board members that serve - - both on the School Board and the
Foundation Board.
Regarding the Back To School Picnic, Frank and Gladys
Van Til will again chair and co-chair this committee
for 2015. Final reports on the 2014 Back To School
Picnic indicate that this event is growing in popularity.
Even in spite of the challenging weather this year, we
had a great turnout at the picnic and we were excited
to see lots of smiling faces and never-ending lines of
kids at the photo booth and with the balloon artists.
Reporting on behalf of the Foundation Board: Darla Kinkade
Fall 2014
schoolbell 13
etc... a resale marketplace
Just Talking About Grandpas
One of the first questions men ask each other when they meet for the
first time is, “What kind of work do you do?” To a great extent we men
find our value, our worth, in the work that we do. We strive to do our
best so that we can better provide for our families. We work hard so
that we will be able to take family vacations, go to our children’s school
programs and sporting events, be involved at church and school….
and the list goes on. God has put this into a man’s very being. In fact,
Solomon wrote that ‘to find enjoyment in our work is a gift from God.’
Then comes retirement and things change dramatically. Yes, now we
can do many of the fun things that we couldn’t do before…. but that
inner something keeps saying, “Your value, your worth, is still tied to
your work.” That’s where etc... a resale marketplace came in for me. My
daughter said, “Dad, we need help moving furniture in, out, and around.
Some customers need help getting things into their cars and vans. Will
you help?” So, two years ago I volunteered to help out one day a week. It
has been very rewarding. While we work to reduce the financial burden
on young families at Highland Christian, we have the opportunity to
talk to the customers. For example, I met a man who told me he spent
his life working in the Kentucky tobacco fields. We talked (he sure knew his tobacco), and then I shared Jesus Christ with
him. A month later he came in again. When he saw me, he came right over and gave me a bear hug that nearly crushed my
bones. We talked and shared our love for Jesus Christ. That’s joy! That’s God’s gift! That’s etc... a resale marketplace!
There was a place for this grandpa and there are many more places available. Try It. God has a gift for you!
Fred Kramer
HIGHLAND CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 2014/2015 WISH LIST
First Grade – Mrs. De Young
Academic Support Center
20 Student Photo Journals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25 total
CD Player for Listening Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $60
Classroom Enrichment & Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100
8 Reading Pointers for Small Groups . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2 each
1 Read Naturally level 4.5 CDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $129
1 Read Naturally level 5.0 CDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $129
1 Read Naturally level 5.6 CDs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $129
First Grade – Mrs. Otte
Electronic Scoreboard for Soccer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $359.09
The Original Shoot-Away Basketball Machine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1475
Hockey Goal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $36.99
Fitness Testing: Body Fat Analyzer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $57.99
Fitness: Agility Ladder 4-pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $39.99
3 Coaches Playboard Basketball . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $9.99 each
Educational Games for Reading Enrichment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $20 each
Student Photo Journals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50
Special Class Activities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100
Second Grade – Mrs. Reynhout
Set of 10 Write and Wipe Lapboards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40
2 Classroom Stacking Baskets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $46.98
Second Grade – Mrs. Verkaik
Classroom Books . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $50
Third Grade – Mrs. Sylvester/Mrs. De Young
“Animals Up Close” Program
at the Peggy Notebaert Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $125 per class
Jr. High – Mrs. Groen
Standard Deviants English Grammar Super Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $170
Standard Deviants School Composition 4-Pack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $110
Music Department - Mr. Rinkenberger
Yamaha YX-135C Standard Padauk Zylophone with cover . . . $1,639.99
Sonshine Enrichment Center
CD player . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100
2 puzzles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $15.00 each
3 tape measures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $10.00 each
2 whiteboards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $100.00 each
14 schoolbell Fall 2014
Physical Education/Sports - Mr. Krooswyk
Before/After Care
Student Dry Erase Lapboards – Magnetic Set of 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $33
Mini Erasers – Set of 6 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4
Mini Foosball Table . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $85
LEGO Juniors Construction Set . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $15
Crayola Color Wonder Items . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $60
Technology
Classroom TV’s upgrade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1000 per set
Back-up software
Gym sound system loudspeaker replacement, digital mixer and amplifier
Copiers
Laptop – SEC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $1,100
Telephone system upgrade . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $6,000
Discovery Center - Kurzwiel program (text to speech software)
1:1 computer/tablet program – Jr. High Students
Kitchen
15 steamtable pans 2.5” deep . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $17.39 each
48 salt & pepper shakers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $25.50
36 creamer bowls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $98.31
24 sugar bowls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $49.37
48 glass bowls for butter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $83.96
Back to School Picnic
The morning started clear and sunny as the committee set up for our annual Back to School Picnic. Soon the dark clouds
rolled in and by 2:00 the committee and volunteers pulled together to bring the picnic into the gym. Grills were moved and
put under a tent, tables and chairs were set up, and food brought into the kitchen and reorganized. We were ready to greet
our guests at 4:30. Volunteers with umbrellas greeted guests and walked them into the gym relatively dry. We had a great time
meeting old and new families and friends, enjoying the activities of face painting, tattoos, balloon dude, photo booth and live
music, celebrating the start of another school year at HCS.
Thanks to our committee and volunteers for their hard work and flexibility. As we left for home that night, we were treated to a
beautiful sunset.
Fall 2014
schoolbell 15
High Honor Roll First Quarter 2014/2015
Tyland Armour
Fletcher Bandstra
Heidi Bultema
Olivia De Young
Abby Ebbens
Emily Feikema
Matthew Fulton
Benjamin Knoll
Hannah Last
Anna Lenting
Sarah Mapes
Macy Margherio
James Mock
Simon Molenaar
Andrew Norman
Julia Oostema
Sarah O’Riley
Cate Peerbolte
Ethan Reynhout
Aslynn Riemersma
Morgan Rudenga
Logan Smith
Eddison Spoelman
Joshua Sylvester
Kayla Sylvester
Samuel Vargo
Isabella Verastegui
Angelina Verastegui
Seth Witham
Lauren Woo
Erin Yonkman
Olivia Yonkman
Madeline Zandstra
Highland Christian School
3040 Ridge Road, Highland, Indiana 46322
219-838-0356
www.highlandchristian.org
Highland Christian
School
Honor Roll First Quarter 2014/2015
Lilly Armendariz
Taylor Bapst
Jessica Bell
Anna Delahunty
Kaylee Evers
Erica Gillespie
Emma Groot
Roberto Heath
Makayla Hoeksema
Nicholas Huizenga
Mia Jenkins
Christopher Koutz
Lily Laballiere
Benjamin Meter
Lance Mulderink
Kyle Mulderink
Joshua Nolen
Te’nia Phillips
Edward Prentice
Emily Prince
Tori Ruffolo
Riley Schutt
Kendal Taylor
Lexi Terpstra
Natalie Togtman
Nina Verhagen
Leah Yarbrough
Highland Christian
School
Legacy Prayer Plaza
Purchase a commemorative paver for Highland Christian School’s Legacy Prayer
Plaza and share how your loved one has made an impact in your life through
a personalized inscription. The Legacy Prayer Plaza contains pavers that bear
testimonies
of faith; inspiring hope and faith for generations to come. Your paver
653, 1525
will be installed in the HCS Foundation Legacy Prayer Plaza on the front lawn
of Highland Christian. 86% of your gift will be reinvested in Highland Christian
School through the Foundation. We will provide you with a certificate of donation.
$130 - 5” x 8” Canterbury Paver
$115 – 4” x 8” Hollandstone Paver
Looking
When you give a paver, you impact the world for Christ,
for the
one child at a time.
perfect gift End of Year Gift
this holiday
season?
For information on how to order your paver, visit:
highlandchristian.org/support-hcs/foundation/legacy-prayer-plaza-project
or call Jodi at 219-838-0356 x165.
World reports of persecution and lack of resources underscore the incredible
blessings of life in America. The religious and educational freedom we enjoy and
the resources we have access to are essential to Christian education. Thank you for
your continued support of Highland Christian School. Every gift we receive
is invested in our children: to improve the quality of programs we offer,
to provide new resources and learning opportunities commensurate with
today’s expected educational outcomes and to contain tuition costs.
If you are able, will you consider an additional gift this year end?
Take advantage of tax benefits and directly impact children
at Highland Christian while supporting our local
Christian school.
“Train up a child in the way he should go
and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
- Proverbs 22:6